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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 260


Page 260 of 512

New collection of stars, not born in our galaxy, discovered in Milky Way

Researchers from Caltech and institutions like Northwestern University used deep learning and supercomputing to identify Nyx, a product of a long-ago galaxy merger. The discovery provides the first indication that a dwarf galaxy merged with the Milky Way disk.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 7, 2020

Limitations of super-resolution microscopy overcome

Researchers have overcome the limitation of super-resolution microscopy by combining dSTORM and expansion microscopy, achieving a distance error reduction to just five nanometers. This enables fluorescence imaging with molecular resolution for the first time, allowing detailed insights into molecular function and architecture.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2020

A chemical cocktail of air pollution in Beijing, China during COVID-19 outbreak

A recent study by the Institute of Atmospheric Physics found that Beijing's air quality did not improve as expected during the COVID-19 lockdown, with secondary aerosol species showing only small changes. The research highlights a challenge for mitigating secondary air pollution in regions with high concentrations of gaseous precursors.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateJul 7, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Medicare's race, ethnic data often undercounts minority populations, study finds

A Rutgers study found that Medicare beneficiaries' self-reported data is more accurate than administrative data sources in tracking minority populations. In 19 states, Hispanic beneficiaries were misclassified at a rate of 20%, while American and Alaskan Native beneficiaries were misclassified in over 80% of states.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMedical Care Research and Review·DateJul 7, 2020

Among older adults, statin use tied to decreased risk of death

A retrospective analysis of US veterans aged 75 and older found statin use associated with a 25% lower risk of death from any cause. The study also showed benefits for cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, particularly in black participants.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateJul 7, 2020

Great expectations: Patients overestimate success in IVF

A prospective study of 69 couples found that female partners overestimated their IVF live birth rates by 34%, while male partners expected a 54% higher rate. The study highlights the need for clinics to set realistic expectations and provide individualized prognosis to avoid disappointment.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 7, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Targeted taxes and school lunch policies benefit low-income populations

Two studies find that targeted taxes on sweetened beverages and strengthened nutritional standards in schools significantly reduce the purchase of these drinks among low-income children. The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act also reduces childhood obesity risk among those living in poverty.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 7, 2020

Childhood obesity linked to poor heart health signs at 11-12 years

A new study published in Pediatrics found that toddlers who were obese or overweight showed signs of cardiovascular disease by age 11-12. The study, led by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute, highlighted the need for early intervention to prevent obesity-related problems with heart health.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 7, 2020

Shock-dissipating fractal cubes could forge high-tech armor

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed 3D printed fractal cubes with closely spaced voids that dissipate shockwaves five times better than solid cubes. The innovative design could lead to new types of lightweight armor and structural materials effective against explosions and impacts.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalAIP Advances·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.

Iodine exposure in the NICU may lead to decrease in thyroid function, NIH study suggests

A new NIH study found that infants exposed to iodine in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are at higher risk for developing congenital hypothyroidism. Infants with this condition often require thyroid hormone therapy within four weeks of birth, and permanent intellectual disability may result if treatment is delayed.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJul 7, 2020

Microplastic pollution harms lobster larvae, study finds

Researchers found that microplastic fibers impact lobster larvae's feeding and respiration. Young lobsters accumulate fibers under their shells, while older larvae ingest particles but keep them in their digestive systems.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJul 7, 2020

Study: Surgical delay associated with increased risk in some gastrointestinal malignancies

A new study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that surgical delays of 30-40 days are associated with shorter survival times in patients with colon cancer. For pancreatic and gastric cancers, the results indicate that longer surgical delays may increase cancer progression and worsen patient outcomes.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Gastrointestinal Surgery·DateJul 7, 2020

COVID-19 in patients who have received kidney transplants or are undergoing dialysis

Two new studies investigate COVID-19 in kidney transplant recipients, finding most don't need hospitalization, and patients on dialysis may experience different symptoms. Additionally, another study reveals distinct clinical features of dialysis patients with COVID-19, highlighting the need for more research and guidance.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·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.

Milk lipids follow the evolution of mammals

Researchers discovered that human milk contains a mix of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, differing from bovids and primates. The study suggests that breast milk composition is evolving to meet the growing brain's needs, with increased polyunsaturated fatty acid content in human milk.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 7, 2020

Neurons show distinct styles as they interact with the same muscle partner

Researchers have discovered that neurons interact differently with the same muscle partner, revealing a previously unappreciated diversity in their propensity to respond to changes. The findings suggest that these subclasses of neurons exhibit distinct types of plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateJul 7, 2020

1.5 billion people will depend on water from mountains

A study led by the University of Zurich found that 1.5 billion people will strongly depend on mountain water resources by mid-21st century, up from 7% in the 1960s. Sustainable development and climate action are crucial to ensure mountain areas continue to supply water as 'water towers'.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 7, 2020

Long-acting injectable form of HIV prevention outperforms daily pill in NIH study

A new long-acting injectable form of PrEP containing cabotegravir outperformed a daily oral Truvada regimen in preventing HIV acquisition among men who have sex with men and transgender women. The study found that the injectable PrEP had a superior protective effect, with a 66% lower incidence rate compared to the daily pill.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·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.

The study of lysosomal function during cell division and chromosomal instability

Researchers discovered that lysosomes are active during mitosis and selectively degrade specific proteins, leading to a toroidal nucleus morphology that may indicate chromosomal instability. This finding provides a new perspective on the connection between autophagy and cell division in cancer and other diseases.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalAutophagy·DateJul 7, 2020

Antioxidants in corn line could aid human IBD protection, therapy

Researchers discovered that flavonoids from a specific corn line reduced inflammation in mice with an inflammatory-bowel-disease-like condition. The study suggests that flavonoid-rich corn may provide protective effects on human health, offering a promising new approach to treating chronic intestinal disease.

SourcePenn State·JournalNutrients·DateJul 7, 2020

Portable system boosts laser precision, at room temperature

Physicists at MIT have designed a quantum light squeezer that reduces quantum noise in lasers by 15% at room temperature. The system uses an optical cavity with two mirrors to engineer the light exiting the cavity, allowing for more precise measurements in quantum computing and gravitational-wave detection.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 7, 2020

Quantum classifiers with tailored quantum kernel?

A new quantum classifier introduces a tailored quantum kernel, outperforming AI technology and enhancing classification tasks with small datasets. The method exploits the quantum advantage in finding non-linear features, leading to significant improvements.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateJul 7, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

As teens delay driver licensing, they miss key safety instruction

A Yale University study found that teens delaying driver licensure are missing critical safety training, including nighttime driving restrictions and passenger limits. This can lead to a higher risk of crashes and fatalities among vulnerable populations.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJul 7, 2020

Blocking cholesterol storage could stop growth of pancreatic tumors

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that interfering with cholesterol storage can stop pancreatic cancer cell growth in mice and lab-grown pancreas models. The study suggests a new strategy for treating deadly disease by targeting an enzyme called SOAT1.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 7, 2020

Excitation of robust materials

Researchers at Kiel University have observed rapid electronic changes in tungsten ditelluride using laser pulses, which could enable ultra-fast optoelectronic switches. The team used time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy to visualize the changes in the material's electronic structure, revealing new insights into its unusual properties.

SourceKiel University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2020

Repurposing public health systems to decode COVID-19

Researchers have successfully linked UK public health monitoring systems with the UK Biobank, enabling analysis of genetic and epidemiological factors associated with severe COVID-19. The resulting pooled data can provide near-to-real-time insights into SARS-CoV-2 spread, testing, and disease characteristics.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobial Genomics·DateJul 7, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Protein linked to cancer acts as a viscous glue in cell division

New research published in Developmental Cell shows that an overabundance of protein PRC1 disrupts genome errors linked to cancer. The protein acts like a viscous glue during cell division, precisely controlling the speed at which two sets of DNA are separated as a single cell divides.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 7, 2020

'Growing' active sites on quantum dots for robust H2photogeneration

Chinese researchers successfully integrated non-noble metal ions into semiconductor quantum dots, creating ultra-small nanocrystals with integrated light absorber, protecting layer and active site. The loading of metal ions enables the efficient evolution of hydrogen from water through photocatalysis.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateJul 7, 2020

Dopamine neurons mull over your options

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that dopamine neurons represent different parts of the decision-making process, including both evaluation and choice. The study suggests that these neurons send decision signals to other brain areas, ultimately influencing muscle action and informing choices in everyday life.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 7, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Curtin study could rewrite Earth's history

Researchers from Curtin University have found evidence that the Earth's first continents were not formed by subduction in a modern-like plate tectonics environment. The team measured iron and zinc isotopes in rocks sourced from central Siberia and South Africa, suggesting an alternative formation process.

SourceCurtin University·JournalGeology·DateJul 7, 2020

Scientists create new device to light up the way for quantum technologies

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have developed a novel device that enables controlled single photon emission from quantum dots, a crucial component in quantum computing and communications. This breakthrough allows for entangled states of pairs of quantum dots, paving the way for significant advancements in quantum technologies.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 7, 2020

Princeton chemists resolve origin of perovskite instability

Researchers at Princeton University have discovered that the source of thermodynamic instability in cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) is the 'rattling' behavior of the inorganic cesium atom within its crystal structure. This discovery could help improve the stability and efficiency of solar cells made from this material.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalAdvanced Materials·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.

The complex relationship between deforestation and diet diversity in the Amazon

A study in Peru found that shifting from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture is associated with less diverse diets and reduced access to food among local communities. The expansion of cash crops like palm oil and cocoa has led to simplified production systems and decreased agricultural biodiversity.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFood Security·DateJul 7, 2020

MU researcher awarded $4 million US Department of Education grant

A University of Missouri researcher has received a $4 million grant to develop an intervention that improves reading comprehension and social studies knowledge for struggling middle school students. The five-year project will be implemented in schools across Missouri, Michigan, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C., and aims to create be...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJul 7, 2020

Scientists offer roadmap for studying link between climate and armed conflict

A new report provides a path forward for research on the complex links between climate change and violent conflict. The study suggests prioritizing deepening insight into climate-conflict linkages, integrating research designs, and evaluating interventions to manage climate-conflict risks.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·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.

TARA biosystems demonstratesin vitrocardiac biology model mimics human drug response

TARA's in vitro human cardiac models replicate drug responses similar to those observed in humans, supporting their use as a robust platform for new medicines evaluation. The models' ability to reproduce diverse mechanisms of action showcases their applicability for cardiac drug discovery and development.

SourceCG Life·JournalJournal of Pharmacological and Toxicological Methods·DateJul 7, 2020

New bird checklists from Coiba National Park, Panama

A new bird checklist from Jicarón and Jicarita islands in Coiba National Park reveals 23 previously unrecorded species, including 10 endemic subspecies and 29 migratory birds. The islands' unique terrain supports a variety of bird species, with some rare migrants recorded.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalTecnociencia·DateJul 7, 2020

A novel active photonic wireless system to power medical implants

Researchers at GIST developed an active photonic wireless system to power medical implants, eliminating the need for invasive battery replacements. The system uses photons to recharge devices in live tissues, enabling long-term use and accelerating emerging implant technologies.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2020

From Health Affairs: Child mortality lower when women hold office in Brazil

Researchers analyzed data from 2000-15 and found that electing women to local, state, and federal levels of decision making reduces child mortality. Higher representation leads to reductions in child mortality rates, with a 0.038 percentage point decrease for federal Chamber of Deputies and .038 percentage points at the state level.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJul 7, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New study detects ringing of the global atmosphere

A recent study confirms theories developed by physicists over the last two centuries, showing the Earth's atmosphere vibrates like a bell. The study analyzed atmospheric pressure data for 38 years, revealing dozens of predicted wave modes, matching theory well.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of the Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 7, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Recent trials of COVID-19 treatments often use time to a positive outcome as a key endpoint, but this may not be suitable when death is a competing risk. The authors propose alternative methods for interpreting treatment effects in COVID-19 studies.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 7, 2020

Old X-rays, new vision: A nano-focused X-ray laser

Scientists from Osaka University have reduced X-ray free-electron laser beam diameter to 6 nanometers, enabling precise imaging of single virus particles and ultrafast chemical processes. This advancement improves the accuracy of measurements closer to the atomic level than previously possible.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Synchrotron Radiation·DateJul 7, 2020

Desk-based jobs may offer protection against poor cognition in later life

A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that individuals with less active jobs, typically office-based desk jobs, performed better at cognitive tests and were at lower risk of poor cognition. Those in manual work had almost three times increased risk of poor cognition than those with an inactive job.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 7, 2020

Metabolomics meets genomics to improve patient diagnosis

A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers integrates whole-exome sequencing with untargeted metabolomics to identify genetic causes of undiagnosed conditions. The integrated analysis informed 44% of cases, reclassifying variants as likely benign or disease-causing and confirming clinical diagnoses in 21 cases.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenetics in Medicine·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.

Host cell fusion in bacteria infection alarms immune system, causing host cell destruction

The study reveals that Burkholderia pseudomallei infection sets off a series of events that provoke the host's immune system, causing infected cells to self-destruct. The researchers found that abnormal cell fusion stimulates the type 1 interferon signaling pathway, leading to autophagy and cell death.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2020

Men and younger adults less active in lockdown

New research from Anglia Ruskin University found that women and older adults are more likely to meet exercise targets, whereas men and younger adults were less active. The study suggests that the public's increased free time during lockdown led to higher levels of physical activity.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·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.

Enzymes as double agents: New mechanism discovered in protein modification

Researchers identified eight new acetyltransferases in plants, which are doubly catalytically active and play a role in photosynthesis. The study reveals an entirely new complexity within the enzyme machinery, suggesting other enzymes with similar dual activities exist in eukaryotic cells.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateJul 7, 2020

Famous 'Jurassic Park' dinosaur is less lizard, more bird

A new analysis of Dilophosaurus fossils reveals the largest land animal of its time had much in common with modern birds, including powerful muscles and air-filled bones. The study also sheds light on how Dilophosaurus evolved and its place in the family tree.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateJul 7, 2020

Early childhood education centers can boost parents' engagement at home

Parents who perceive that early childhood education centers communicate well with them are more likely to engage in educational activities, such as reading and singing, both at the center and at home. The quality of these activities is a stronger predictor of school readiness than their quantity.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·DateJul 7, 2020