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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 274


Page 274 of 512

Race, rurality play prominently in Georgia areas hardest hit by COVID-19

Rural Georgia counties with higher black populations experienced the highest rates of infection and death per capita. Investigators attribute this to treatment delays due to limited ICU beds and poor social determinants of health.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of the American College of Emergency Physicians·DateJun 25, 2020

Science study: Chemists achieve breakthrough in the synthesis of graphene nanoribbons

Researchers at MLU, UT, and ORNL have successfully produced graphene nanoribbons directly on semiconductor surfaces, overcoming previous limitations. This breakthrough enables customization of the material's properties, paving the way for potential applications in storage technology, semiconductor industry, and quantum computing.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Uganda's Ik are not unbelievably selfish and mean

A Rutgers-led study challenges the notion that the Ik are selfish and mean, instead revealing their culture promotes generosity. The researchers found that the Ik live by a saying 'tomora marang,' which means it's good to share.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEvolutionary Human Sciences·DateJun 25, 2020

Universal right to health could inspire people, organizations to make real change

Acknowledging a universal human right to health can motivate individuals and groups to create significant improvements in global health. By recognizing this fundamental right, people may refuse to accept impossibility and develop innovative solutions, as seen with HIV/AIDS access efforts that reduced treatment costs.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Social Philosophy·DateJun 25, 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.

Dolphins learn in similar ways to great apes

Dolphins use complex techniques like 'shelling' to obtain food, a behavior comparable to tool use in humans. A study revealed that dolphins learn new foraging methods mainly through social transmission among peers, similar to great apes and gorillas. This discovery expands our understanding of how dolphins adapt to changing environment...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 25, 2020

Women underrepresented in academic hospital medicine leadership roles, study finds

A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that women comprise only 22% of full-time professors and 39% of full-time faculty in academic hospital medicine programs. Furthermore, male hospitalist leaders are more likely to have attained the rank of full professor than female leaders.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 25, 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.

Selling something? Tap into consumer arrogance

A new study from Michigan State University found that consumer arrogance drives both positive and negative word-of-mouth communication, with consumers bragging about their purchases to show off their superiority. The research suggests that tapping into this phenomenon can be a key strategy for marketers on social media.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·DateJun 25, 2020

Research shows COVID-19 is an independent risk factor for acute ischemic stroke

A study published in the American Journal of Neuroradiology found COVID-19 infection to be significantly associated with acute ischemic stroke. After adjusting for age, gender, and risk factors, the researchers showed a 3.9-fold increased risk of stroke among patients with COVID-19 compared to control subjects.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Neuroradiology·DateJun 25, 2020

Variability in natural speech is challenging for the dyslexic brain

Dyslexia compromises phoneme processing due to continuous acoustic variation in natural speech, making detection of phonemes challenging for individuals with developmental reading-deficit dyslexia. Neural-level evidence suggests difficulties in categorizing speech sounds, impacting the learning of native language phonemes.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 25, 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.

Study is first to identify potential therapeutic targets for COVID-19

A study has identified six molecules that could be used as therapeutic targets to treat COVID-19. The research team found that these molecules were uniquely elevated in the blood of critically ill patients, and were able to predict the presence of COVID-19 with high accuracy using artificial intelligence.

SourceLawson Health Research Institute·JournalCritical Care Explorations·DateJun 25, 2020

Climate extremes will cause forest changes

Research team reports record-breaking temperatures causing water transport collapse through wood, leading to widespread tree death and drought-related stress symptoms. Mixed forests with drought-resistant species are needed to mitigate climate change impacts.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalBasic and Applied Ecology·DateJun 25, 2020

Smart phones are empowering women worldwide

Access to mobile phones is linked to improved health outcomes, including lower infant and maternal mortality rates. Mobile phones also enable women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, including the use of modern contraceptive methods.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 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.

Should physicians rethink terms used to describe kidney health?

A new study found that certain medical terms used by physicians to describe kidney health may be distressing or too difficult to understand for patients with kidney disease. Using consistent and meaningful language can help improve patients' health and satisfaction.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 25, 2020

Identified genes that predispose to cancer by impairing the immune system

A study has identified genetic variants that predispose to cancer and impair the immune system. The research found up to 57 genetic variants in 13 types of cancer, which affect the body's defenses. The immune system plays a key role in protecting against malignancies, but cancer cells have mechanisms to escape immune responses.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournaliScience·DateJun 25, 2020

Disproportionate effects of COVID-19 on socially vulnerable communities

A new study found COVID-19 has a disproportionate impact on minority and non-English speaking communities, with increased risk of diagnosis and death in rural and urban counties. The study highlights the need for standardized collection of sociodemographic characteristics and targeted interventions to address these disparities.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 25, 2020

New study looks at post-COVID-19 emerging disease in children

A new case series published in Radiology examines the spectrum of imaging findings in children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) associated with prior exposure or infection to SARS-CoV-2. The study identified a pattern of imaging findings including airway inflammation and pulmonary edema.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 25, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Sledge dogs are closely related to 9,500-year-old 'ancient dog'

Researchers sequenced ancient DNA from a 9,500-year-old dog, revealing that modern sledge dogs share a common origin with the ancient breed. The study also found genetic adaptations similar to those of polar bears and Arctic people.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 2020

Tracking the spread of mosquito insecticide resistance across Africa

A recent study mapped mosquito insecticide resistance patterns across Africa, finding dramatic increases in resistance to five mainstream insecticides between 2005 and 2017. This surge in resistance poses a significant threat to malaria control efforts, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa where over half of all cases occur.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 25, 2020

3D printed insoles offers new hope for patients with diabetes

Researchers from Staffordshire University found that optimised cushioning in diabetic footwear can significantly reduce plantar pressure, leading to ulcers and painful complications. The study used made-to-measure 3D-printed insoles to change the stiffness of the sole, finding a clear relationship between BMI and optimal stiffness.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalGait & Posture·DateJun 25, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Scientists found out how nanoparticles kill cancer cells

Researchers from Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University discovered how nanoparticles, particularly iron oxide nanocubes and nanoclusters, can selectively target and activate specific genes in liver cancer cells, leading to apoptosis and autophagy. This breakthrough could lead to personalized cancer therapy and diagnostic tools.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalNano Convergence·DateJun 25, 2020

Common food additive causes adverse health effects in mice

Researchers at UMass Amherst find TiO2 nanoparticles alter gut microbiota, causing inflammation and changes in liver protein expression. The study suggests long-term exposure to foodborne TiO2 NPs may have adverse health effects, particularly in obese mice.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalSmall·DateJun 25, 2020

The CNRS 2020 Innovation Medal

The CNRS 2020 Innovation Medallists have made significant contributions to various fields, including graft rejection treatment and high-precision sensors. Their work has led to the development of innovative technologies with applications in industry, healthcare, and research.

SourceCNRS·DateJun 25, 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.

Receptor makes mice strong and slim

Researchers at the University of Bonn identified a receptor that regulates two side effects of aging: increased abdominal girth and shrinking muscles. The A2B receptor is found in mice and human cell cultures, and its activation increases heat generation and muscle growth.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJun 25, 2020

Global pollution estimates reveal surprises, opportunity

The study reveals a significant drop in PM2.5 levels in China since 2011, while India is experiencing a plateau phase. The researchers' hybrid dataset shows that effective controls can be remarkably effective at reducing air pollution.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 25, 2020

Illinois professor proposes guide for developing common data science approaches

A University of Illinois professor has proposed a framework for guiding researchers in developing common data science approaches, aiming to unify conversations and share knowledge across disciplines. The data science life cycle framework identifies key issues that can be generalized across fields and those specific to each discipline.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCommunications of the ACM·DateJun 25, 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.

The tug-of-war at the heart of cellular symmetry

Researchers at Kyoto University create simplified artificial cell to investigate internal structure of cells. The team discovers two coexisting actomyosin networks with opposing functions that determine positioning symmetry.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2020

University of Minnesota Medical School finds promising treatment to slow kidney disease doesn't prove out in clinical trial

A new clinical trial from the University of Minnesota Medical School found that allopurinol did not slow kidney function in people with type 1 diabetes, despite reducing uric acid levels. The three-year study enrolled 530 participants and followed their glomerular filtration rate to assess kidney health.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 25, 2020

AI could help improve performance of lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells

Researchers applied machine learning techniques to explore microstructure of fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries. They used DC-GANs to generate 3D image data and run simulations to predict cell performance. The technique could help design optimized electrodes for improved energy storage.

SourceImperial College London·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJun 25, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Researchers discover new boron-lanthanide nanostructure

Researchers from Brown and Tsinghua Universities have created a bizarre cage-like structure by clustering boron atoms with lanthanide elements, challenging conventional chemistry rules. The discovery may shed light on bulk structure and chemical bonding behavior of boron lanthanides, an important class of materials.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2020

Superbug impact on the gut

The study found that C. difficile massively activates a human enzyme called plasminogen to destroy gut tissue and spread infection. Researchers developed an antibody that prevents plasminogen activation, stalling infection progress and tissue damage.

SourceMonash University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJun 25, 2020

Indirect adverse effects of COVID-19 on children and youth's mental, physical health

The COVID-19 pandemic has significant indirect adverse effects on children's physical and mental health, including delayed care for non-COVID-19 illnesses, missed vaccinations, and increased family violence. Reduced social interaction and lack of structured routines also contribute to anxiety, depression, and decreased physical activity.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 25, 2020

First comparison of dangers of tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes and waterpipes

A study published in the European Heart Journal finds that tobacco cigarettes are more harmful than e-cigarettes, while waterpipe smoke poses significant health risks. The review highlights the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of e-cigarettes and waterpipes on human health.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 25, 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.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Monster black hole found in the early universe

Astronomers have discovered the second most distant quasar, Pōniuāʻena, containing a monster black hole twice the mass of other quasars at the same epoch. The discovery presents significant challenges to current theories on supermassive black hole formation and growth in the early universe.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·DateJun 25, 2020

Why are plants green?

Researchers developed a model that reproduces a general feature of photosynthetic light harvesting, observed across many photosynthetic organisms. The model suggests that absorbing specific colors of light can protect against sudden changes in solar energy, resulting in efficient power conversion.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 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.

Montana State researcher publishes paper examining COVID-19 spread

A Montana State University researcher used a database to count patients with influenza-like illnesses and found that many cases of COVID-19 may have gone undiagnosed early on. The study suggests that syndromic surveillance like this can help scientists predict and prepare for future epidemics.

SourceMontana State University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 25, 2020

USask researchers to develop saliva-based COVID-19 home testing kit

Researchers at University of Saskatchewan are developing a unique saliva-based test to detect SARS-CoV-2 peptides in saliva, which is expected to be more sensitive, less invasive, and less expensive than current methods. The test aims to detect mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 cases and will be available by March 2021.

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·DateJun 25, 2020

Motions in the Sun reveal inner workings of sunspot cycle

Scientists studied sunspots and their movement, discovering a giant cell in each hemisphere with plasma moving towards the equator at 15 km/h. The meridional flow explains why sunspots emerge closer to the equator as solar cycles progress.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Solar System Research·JournalScience·DateJun 25, 2020