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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 259


Page 259 of 512

Remdesivir can save more lives where ICUs are overwhelmed: BU study

A new Boston University School of Public Health study estimates that remdesivir can increase ICU capacity by over 50%, saving up to 6,862 lives per month. The drug's 'double impact' could save as many as 13,647 South Africans by December.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJul 7, 2020

Fighting E. coli with E. coli

Researchers discovered that Nissle, a harmless E. coli strain, can protect intestinal tissue against pathogenic strains like enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). The probiotic was found to decline rapidly in the tissue while allowing it to withstand damage better.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateJul 7, 2020

Study: Troubling connection between workplace pregnancy discrimination and health of mothers, babies

A management study led by Baylor University found a troubling connection between workplace pregnancy discrimination and the health of mothers and babies. Perceived pregnancy discrimination can lead to increased postpartum depressive symptoms for mothers and lower birth weights, gestational ages, and doctor visits for babies.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJul 7, 2020

Brain structural elements in psychiatric disorders

Researchers identified shared brain structural elements across major psychiatric disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The study also revealed distinct regional abnormalities for individual conditions, suggesting potential mechanisms underlying these disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 7, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Newer solar power equipment ages better than older units

Researchers used fixed effects regression techniques to analyze photovoltaic performance degradation over time. They found that newer projects have degraded at a slower rate than older ones, suggesting photovoltaics technology has improved over time.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateJul 7, 2020

Colleges that emphasize activism have more civically engaged students

Research at Binghamton University found that institutions emphasizing social and political issues have students who participate in activism behaviors. Black and queer students are significantly more likely to engage, while straight and White peers show less engagement.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of College Student Development·DateJul 7, 2020

New link between calcium and cardiolipin in heart defects

Researchers have discovered a crucial connection between calcium, energy production, and cardiolipin in heart muscles affected by Barth syndrome. This understanding may lead to new insights into the disease's symptoms and treatment options.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Electrons in the fast lane

Researchers discovered ferroelastic twin domains in perovskite crystals that can influence electron movement. These structures, or 'electron highways,' could make perovskite solar cells more powerful and improve their efficiency.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJul 7, 2020

Nutrients in microalgae: An environmentally friendly alternative to fish

A new study by scientists from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg found that microalgae farming has a similar environmental impact to fish production, but produces more omega-3 fatty acids per unit area. This could lead to a more sustainable source of essential nutrients for humans and reduce pressure on the world's oceans.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Applied Phycology·DateJul 7, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Artificial tones in perception experiments could be missing the mark, research

Researchers at McMaster University found nearly 90% of sounds used in auditory experiments have no connection to the natural world. This discovery raises questions about the use of artificial tone beeps in testing the auditory system, highlighting their limitations and potential impact on real-world applications.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2020

Circular RNA makes fruit flies live longer

Scientists have discovered a specific circular RNA that prolongs fruit fly lifespan by regulating the insulin signalling pathway. The circRNA, called circSulfateless, is expressed at higher levels in long-lived flies and can directly influence their lifespan. These findings suggest a potential link between circRNAs and human ageing.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 7, 2020

For cleaner air, water, and soil

A team of scientists led by prof. Juan Carlos Colmenares developed an efficient reactive adsorbent that can purify air from various toxic compounds cheaply and effectively. The material, made from titanium dioxide and graphite oxide, uses photocatalysis to break down toxins into less harmful elements.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateJul 7, 2020

Making a list of all creatures, great and small

A new PLOS Biology paper proposes a set of principles for creating and governing lists of the world's species, aiming to address the lack of an agreed list of all species. The proposed governance mechanism ensures that taxonomists' decisions are informed by stakeholders' needs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 7, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

NASA finds powerful storm's around Tropical Storm Cristina's center

Tropical cyclones are made of hundreds of thunderstorms, and infrared data can show where the strongest storms are located. NASA research has found that cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit indicate strong storms with potential to generate heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 7, 2020

The cosmic commute towards star and planet formation

Researchers measured gas motions throughout the Milky Way and a nearby galaxy, finding that cold molecular gas motions appear to fluctuate in velocity, reminiscent of ocean waves. The team discovered that equidistantly spaced structure shows distinctive pattern, with periodic spacing likely resulting from gravitational instability.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 7, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

A new understanding of protein movement

Engineers from the University of Delaware develop procedure to purify monoclonal antibodies with 43% higher productivity, thanks to understanding of adsorption affinity and its role in protein transport into ion-exchange beads. This breakthrough could lead to reduced waste during expensive drug manufacturing process.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2020

Breakthrough machine learning approach quickly produces higher-resolution climate data

Researchers developed a breakthrough machine learning approach that quickly produces higher-resolution climate data, enhancing wind velocity and solar irradiance by 50 and 25 times respectively. This advancement will enable scientists to complete renewable energy studies with more accuracy and speed.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Boron nitride destroys PFAS 'forever' chemicals PFOA, GenX

Rice University engineers found that boron nitride can destroy 99% of PFOA in four hours through light activation, outperforming previously reported catalysts. The discovery suggests the potential for using boron nitride as a tool to address PFAS pollution.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 7, 2020

Conservation agriculture increases carbon sequestration in extensive crops

A study found that Conservation Agriculture can increase organic carbon in soil by up to three times the goal amount, making it a key tool for mitigating climate change. By adopting no-till farming and rotating crops, farmers can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve environmental sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalGeoderma·DateJul 7, 2020

Policies fall short on expanding access to birth control

A recent study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that despite federal and state policies to expand access to birth control, only 10.1% of Los Angeles County pharmacies provide this service without age restrictions. The study suggests that regulations alone are not enough to address disparities in contraceptive use, hi...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 7, 2020

Custom nanoparticle regresses tumors when exposed to light

Researchers developed nanoparticles that can deliver a localized cancer treatment by inhibiting tumor growth in mice. The nanoparticles use a specific chemistry to attach a microRNA that prevents cancer cells from producing proteins, leading to cell death.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiomaterials·DateJul 7, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Engineers use electricity to clean up toxic water

Researchers from the University of Sydney developed an electrochemical oxidation process to clean up complex wastewater containing toxic chemicals. The process transforms organic contaminants into harmless gases or minerals without requiring additional chemicals or severe operation conditions.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAlgal Research·DateJul 7, 2020

A novel therapeutic target for recovery after stroke

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism underlying post-stroke recovery and developed a potential therapeutic approach by inhibiting astrocytic GABA synthesis. Treatment with KDS2010 alleviates cortical diaschisis and improves motor function in animal models, suggesting a new treatment direction for stroke patients.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 7, 2020

RNA key in helping stem cells know what to become

Researchers have found that RNA is critical in the process of cell differentiation, serving as a bridge between genes and epigenetic machinery. Without RNA, the system cannot work, making it essential for life. The study's findings could lead to the development of new RNA-targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 7, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Winners of the first ERC Public Engagement with Research Award announced

The European Research Council has announced its first ERC Public Engagement with Research Awards, recognizing three winners who made an effort to engage audiences beyond the scientific community. Prof. Anna Davies from Trinity College Dublin won for her SHARECITY project, exploring urban food-sharing practices through online and social...

SourceEuropean Research Council·DateJul 7, 2020

How to tackle climate change, food security and land degradation

A Rutgers-led study examines 40 options to tackle interrelated problems of climate change, food security and land degradation. The research finds that integrated water management and agroforestry have fewer trade-offs than well-known options like planting trees.

SourceRutgers University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 7, 2020

A 3D biofabricated cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma tissue model

Researchers have developed a 3D bioprinted skin model of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) to test the efficacy of chemotherapies. The model selectively killed cSCC cells while sparing normal keratinocytes, demonstrating its potential for pre-clinical screening.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJul 7, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Bad E. coli we know, but good E. coli?

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that a strain of E. coli Nissle protects human cells against pathogenic E. coli bacteria. The study suggests that Nissle may be used to develop a treatment for E. coli infections, which affect millions annually.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalmBio·DateJul 7, 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis patients under treatment with methotrexate

Two studies found that methotrexate treatment does not increase the risk of chronic interstitial lung disease in RA patients, but may even delay its development. This is significant as ILD is a common complication of RA and can be life-threatening.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·DateJul 7, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Oncotarget: Clonality and antigen-specific responses shape prognostic effects

Researchers utilized a computational method to analyze the CDR3 regions of T-cell receptors from high-grade serous ovarian cancers. The study found that patients with low T-cell infiltration but diverse or focused repertoires had clinical outcomes similar to highly-infiltrated tumors. The authors identified the degree of divergence bet...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJul 7, 2020

Machine learning helps grow artificial organs

Researchers developed a neural network capable of recognizing retinal tissues during differentiation without modifying cells. The method allows for growing retinal tissue for developing cell replacement therapies to treat blindness and conducting research into new drugs.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateJul 7, 2020

OU researcher receives Department of Defense Young Faculty Award

Justin Metcalf, OU assistant professor, received a Young Faculty Award from DARPA to explore how the electromagnetic spectrum has become critically congested. His research aims to develop techniques for radar and communications systems to share frequency bands, enabling defense and commercial users to dynamically share unlicensed bands.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJul 7, 2020
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Agriculture - a climate villain? Maybe not!

Researchers argue that agriculture's contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is overstated and may even have a net positive effect on the climate. Per Frankelius proposes seven measures to reduce emissions while advancing sustainable agriculture.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJul 7, 2020

Insufficient sleep harms children's mental health

A University of Houston study found that insufficient sleep alters children's emotional health, particularly in response to positive emotions. The research highlights the importance of assessing and prioritizing healthy sleep habits for emotionally vulnerable children.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJul 7, 2020

Strange bedfellows

Caterpillars of the Lycaenidae family have evolved to associate with ants, which protect them from predators in exchange for sugary secretions. These associations are driven by chemical signals and rewards, allowing caterpillars to minimize energetic costs while maximizing protection.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2020
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Addressing the toxicity of cancer treatment costs

A new patient-focused intervention, DISCO App, has been developed to improve patient-provider treatment cost discussions and related patient outcomes. The five-year grant-funded study will evaluate the effectiveness of the app in reducing financial toxicity among cancer patients.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateJul 7, 2020

Mental health benefits of parks dimmed by safety concerns

A new NYU study found that exercising in nearby parks reduces anxiety and depression, but safety concerns prevent many from using them. The researchers suggest improving park lighting, programs, and community engagement to make parks feel safer.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJul 7, 2020

Flu in early life determines our susceptibility to future infections

A new study published in eLife found that early exposure to the flu virus can reduce the risk of future infections, particularly with the same subtype. The study also showed that the effectiveness of flu vaccines varies with age and birth year, suggesting that early exposure plays a role in shaping immune responses.

SourceeLife·DateJul 7, 2020

Study reveals science behind traditional mezcal-making technique

Researchers found that a phenomenon known as the Marangoni effect helps mezcal bubbles linger longer when alcohol content is around 50%, allowing artisans to determine perfect distillation levels. The study also reveals new fundamental details about bubble lifetimes on liquid surfaces.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 7, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

On-chip spin-Hall nanograting for simultaneously detecting phase and polarization singularities

Researchers developed an on-chip plasmonic spin-Hall nanograting to detect both phase and polarization singularities of incident beams. The structure directionally couples different positions depending on the polarization and topological charge of the beam, enabling rapid detection with high resolution.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateJul 7, 2020