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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 278


Page 278 of 512

Jellyfish contain no calories, so why do they still attract predators?

Researchers found that moon jellyfish contain essential fatty acids like arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, vital for predator growth and reproduction. This suggests that despite low caloric value, jellyfish can be an attractive prey item for predators through sheer quantity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of Plankton Research·DateJun 24, 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.

Countries with early adoption of face masks showed modest COVID-19 infection rates

A new study found that regions with early interest in face masks had milder COVID-19 epidemics, with correlations seen in Asian countries such as Hong Kong and Taiwan. The use of face masks was linked to lower infection rates, suggesting its potential role in slowing the spread of the virus.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 24, 2020

TB cases and deaths predicted to spike due to COVID-19

The global pandemic could significantly increase the global burden of tuberculosis due to disruptions to health services and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Researchers predict up to 110,000 additional TB deaths over five years, with 6,000 in China, 95,000 in India, and 13,000 in South Africa.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateJun 24, 2020

Newly discovered planet zips around baby star in a week

Astronomers using TESS and Spitzer data report the discovery of AU Mic b, a Neptune-like planet that orbits its young star in under 10 days. The system offers a unique laboratory for studying planetary atmospheres and interactions with stars.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020

'Ironing' out the differences: Understanding superconductivity in ultrathin FeSe

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology elucidate the underlying cause behind different critical transition temperatures reported for ultrathin iron selenide (FeSe) superconductors, finding the interface between FeSe and STO substrate essential for high-temperature superconductivity. The study reveals variability in Tc values du...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 24, 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.

NASA's TESS, Spitzer missions discover a world orbiting a unique young star

Scientists have discovered a planet about as large as Neptune that orbits the young star AU Mic in just over a week, providing valuable insights into planetary formation and evolution. The planet, named AU Mic b, was detected using data from NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and retired Spitzer Space Telescope.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020

Examining media coverage of protests worldwide

A new study examines how mainstream media covers protests, finding that negative coverage is often more prevalent in anti-status quo events. The research suggests that journalists should focus on the substance of a protest rather than its violence or spectacle.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournalism Studies·DateJun 24, 2020

New research advances Army's quest for quantum networking

The US Army has made significant advancements in quantum networking research, which will play a crucial role in future battlefield operations. The researchers have developed a system that can send information quantum-mechanically between nodes without occupying the linking channel.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 24, 2020

Measure squeezing in a novel way

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have developed a new method to measure squeezing in systems, allowing for more sensitive detection of signals. The technique, led by Professor Eva Weig, uses a simpler approach than existing methods and enables measurements in previously inaccessible systems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 24, 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.

Scientists uncover new genetic mutations linked to autism spectrum disorder

Researchers identified mutations in the CNOT1 gene that affect brain development and impair memory and learning, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. The study also revealed interactions between CNOT1 and known autism spectrum disorder genes, paving the way for further research.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 24, 2020

Order out of disorder in ice

An international research team identified a temperature/time-dependent kinetic pathway with three distinctive transitions in the structural evolution from metastable crystalline ice (ice VII or ice VIII) to the thermodynamically stable ice I. The end result is a juxtaposition of these processes, where intermediate amorphous-ices compet...

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2020

Steep NYC traffic toll would reduce gridlock, pollution

A $20 toll for cars and taxis entering Manhattan's central business district could decrease gridlock by up to 40%, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 15%. The study found that this measure would lead to a significant reduction in air pollution, including particulate matter linked to poor health.

SourceCornell University·JournalSustainability·DateJun 24, 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.

Best way found to treat children with sickle cell anemia in sub-Saharan Africa

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that dose escalation of hydroxyurea treatment is more effective and has similar side effects than a lower fixed dose for children with sickle cell anemia in Uganda. The findings have global implications and could impact use of hydroxyurea worldwide.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 24, 2020

Undergrad-led study suggests light environment modifications could maximize productivity

A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that crops' lower leaves are less efficient due to altered light conditions, not age. This 'Achilles' heel' can cause a 10% loss of potential canopy photosynthesis gain, highlighting the importance of optimizing light environments for improved crop yields.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateJun 24, 2020

Virtually screening antiviral compounds against SARS-CoV-2 structure may speed up drug and vaccine D

Researchers used a structure-based approach to virtually screen antiviral compounds against SARS-CoV-2, identifying potential candidates for repurposed therapies and new vaccines. The study found high-affinity binding of several antiviral drugs to the spike protein and main protease, revealing promising leads for further research.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 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.

Bringing burnt bones back to life using 3D technology

Forensic investigators can now analyze fragile human remains without excessive handling, thanks to a new 3D printing technique. This approach allows for effective physical fit analysis and demonstrates the potential for improved evidence presentation in court.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalForensic Science International·DateJun 24, 2020

Cancer study shows how chemicals cause complex cell mutations

A new study finds that chemicals can cause changes in cells to evade the immune system and build resistance to cancer drugs. The team identified specific combinations of mutations that create cancer cells, which could aid doctors in prescribing the most appropriate course of chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020

Genetic malfunction of brain astrocytes triggers migraine

Researchers have identified a new mechanism implicated in familial hemiplegic migraine type 2, a debilitating condition affecting the central nervous system. The study found that genetic mutations cause malfunction of astrocytes in the cingulate cortex, leading to increased sensitivity to pain triggers and neuronal excitability.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2020

Nature-imitating coating makes batteries more durable and efficient

Aalto University researchers have developed a nature-imitating coating that makes batteries more durable and efficient. The coating, produced using carbon dioxide in molecular layer deposition, can protect the actual electrode material and enable the use of new, more efficient materials like lithium.

SourceAalto University·JournalNanoscale Advances·DateJun 24, 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.

New process could safeguard water quality, environment and health

A Swansea University research team has developed a new method for fast removal and detection of wastewater pollutants from everyday pharmaceuticals. The single process uses QuEChERS with mass spectrometric detection to detect, extract and quantify pharmaceutical compounds and personal care products.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAnalytical Science Advances·DateJun 24, 2020

COVID-19 from food safety and biosecurity perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of food safety and biosecurity in preventing the spread of the virus. Initial epidemiological studies suggest that bats may be natural reservoir hosts of Coronavirus, and hunting for bushmeat can increase the risk of transmission.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Food Science Journal·DateJun 24, 2020

Tour scores prestigious Centenary Prize

James Tour, a Rice University chemist, has won the Royal Society of Chemistry Centenary Prize for his groundbreaking work in materials chemistry with applications in medicine and nanotechnology. The award recognizes his research group's contributions over 32 years.

SourceRice University·DateJun 24, 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.

Wildfire smoke has immediate harmful health effects: UBC study

Exposure to wildfire smoke affects the body's respiratory and cardiovascular systems almost immediately, according to a UBC study. The researchers found that even within one hour of exposure, ambulance dispatches related to respiratory and cardiovascular conditions increased.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 24, 2020

Inherited mutation found among Brazilians increases cancer risk

Scientists have discovered a common TP53-R337H variant among people of Brazilian descent that increases cancer risk when combined with an inherited XAF1 mutation. The study found individuals with both mutations are at a greater risk of cancer, highlighting the importance of genetic screening and public health approaches.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2020

A metabolic enzyme drives lymphoma and is a potential drug target

A new study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center finds that increased activity of the normal metabolic enzyme SHMT2 transforms normal B cells into B cell lymphomas. The enzyme binds to tumor suppressor proteins, turning them off and resulting in the development of lymphoma.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Cancer·DateJun 24, 2020

An innovative catalyst with Pt, Re and SnO2 nanoparticles as anode material in ethanol fuel cells

Scientists designed a functional ternary Pt/Re/SnO2/C catalyst, which exhibits more than ten times higher activity in the ethanol oxidation reaction compared to commercial platinum catalysts. The new catalyst features improved stability and is suitable for use as an anode material in direct ethanol fuel cells.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNano Research·DateJun 24, 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.

Biomedical researchers get closer to why eczema happens

A new study from Binghamton University connects lipids and bacteria to aid in understanding eczema. Researchers found that decreased levels of ceramides can allow Staphylococcus aureus bacteria to penetrate the skin barrier, leading to inflammation and infection. Further research is needed to unlock the secrets of atopic dermatitis.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTissue Barriers·DateJun 24, 2020

Economic alien plants more likely to go wild

A global study found that cultivated economic plants are 18 times more likely to naturalize than non-cultivated species, with multiple uses being the most successful. Economic plants of Asian origin show the greatest naturalization success.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2020

Females use anti-inflammatory T cells to keep their blood pressure down

Researchers found that females upregulate anti-inflammatory T cells to maintain lower blood pressures, which may lead to new hypertension treatment strategies for females. In contrast, males did not show a significant response to reduced Treg levels, suggesting their blood pressure is less dependent on this mechanism.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateJun 23, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Existing drugs may limit damage caused by HIV

Yale researchers identified four approved drugs that can suppress HIV reactivation and reduce damaging immune responses. These drugs, including ruxolitinib and mycophenolic acid, show promise as a complement to antiretroviral therapy in treating HIV infection.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 23, 2020

Gear treated with 'forever chemicals' poses risk to firefighters

Research by the University of Notre Dame found high concentrations of fluorine on firefighter PPE, including moisture barrier and outer shell. PFAS can contaminate thermal layer and skin, posing occupational health risk to firefighters.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 23, 2020

Striking differences revealed in COVID-19 mortality between NHS trusts

A University of Cambridge team found striking differences in COVID-19 mortality between NHS trusts, with some patients in certain trusts over four times more likely to die than those in average trusts. The researchers are calling for urgent research to understand these differences and inform ICU optimization.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalIntensive Care Medicine·DateJun 23, 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.

Breaking the limit

Scientists have synthesized brand-new transition metal carbonyl complexes, including Ta2(CO)12 and M(CO)7+, which transcend new chemical frontiers. These substances go beyond current compound limits, offering new possibilities for practical use and basic science research.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 23, 2020

Sweet or sour natural gas

Researchers developed tailored polyimide membranes to efficiently separate H2S and CO2 from sour gas. By adjusting the ratio of building blocks, they achieved balanced separation efficiency for both gases.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 23, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Prenatal stress associated with infant gut microbes

A new study from the University of Turku found that prenatal stress is associated with changes in infant gut microbiota composition, specifically with increased abundances of Proteobacteria and decreased abundances of Akkermansia. The study also discovered a link between low cortisol concentrations and increased Lactobacillus bacteria ...

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 23, 2020

Defining paths to possible mother to child coronavirus transmission

UC Davis Health researchers outline three potential mechanisms of vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from mother to fetus, emphasizing the importance of understanding timing and infection routes. Intrapartum or early postnatal infection can occur through exposure to infected maternal blood or secretions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology·DateJun 23, 2020

St. Jude creates resource for pediatric brain tumor research

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have created orthotopic patient-derived xenograft models representing a variety of pediatric brain tumor types. These models are molecularly characterized and available through a cloud-based data portal, enabling researchers worldwide to access them.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJun 23, 2020

Rice professor attracts grant to study magnetism

Rice University experimental physicist Ming Yi has been awarded a five-year grant from the Department of Energy to explore magnetism in two-dimensional materials. Her research aims to understand how key ingredients for magnetism evolve as materials transition from 3D to 2D.

SourceRice University·DateJun 23, 2020

Researchers identify novel genetic variants linked to type-2 diabetes

A massive genomic analysis has found hundreds of new genetic variants associated with type-2 diabetes, as well as those tied to related conditions like coronary heart disease and chronic kidney disease. The discovery may lead to personalized treatments for patients at high risk of developing the disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 23, 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.

Scientists use protein, RNA to make hollow, spherical sacks called vesicles

Researchers have created biological storage compartments using protein and RNA, offering an alternative to traditional lipid-based vesicles. The hollow spheres can be used for targeted drug delivery or pesticide release, and their structure resembles classical lipid vesicles without being made from lipids.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2020

New research deepens mystery of particle generation in proton collisions

Researchers have found that neutral pions emitted in the very forward area of polarized proton-proton collisions retain a large degree of left-right asymmetry. This finding suggests reevaluation of previous theories on particle generation. Further study is needed to understand the mechanism underlying this phenomenon.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 23, 2020

New drug candidate reawakens sleeping HIV in hopes of functional cure

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys have developed a new drug called Ciapavir that effectively reactivates dormant human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) without overactivating the immune system. This approach, called 'shock and kill,' aims to create a functional HIV cure by eliminating all pockets of dormant HIV.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJun 23, 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.

Study suggests universal flu vaccine may be more challenging than expected

Researchers found that one flu strain, H3N2, can mutate relatively easily to escape broad-acting antibodies, while another strain, H1N1, is more difficult to evade. The study highlights the challenges involved in designing a universal flu vaccine and suggests that further research is needed to develop an effective treatment.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJun 23, 2020

Ideologically extreme Facebook users spread the most fake news

A study by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that Facebook users who are ideologically extreme, lacking trust in conventional media and one another, post misinformation more often. About 1% of users at the far ideological extremes were responsible for sharing nearly half of the fake news on the platform.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalHuman Communication Research·DateJun 23, 2020

Starved cancer cells became more sensitive to chemotherapy

Researchers at Lund University successfully blocked sugar uptake in cancer cells using inhibitors, making them more sensitive to chemotherapy. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

SourceLund University·JournalHaematologica·DateJun 23, 2020
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.

Introducing a new isotope: Mendelevium-244

A team of scientists at Berkeley Lab has discovered a new form of the element mendelevium, creating the lightest known isotope, mendelevium-244. The discovery was made using the lab's 88-Inch Cyclotron and provides evidence for the existence of two separate decay chains with half-lives of 0.4 seconds and 6 seconds.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 23, 2020

Virtually captured

Researchers analyzed the Venus flytrap's biomechanical properties using digital 3D image correlation methods and finite element simulations. They found that the trap snaps shut when under prestress, and only traps with three tissue layers can close correctly.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2020

Supply chain expert reveals methodology behind Bordeaux pricing model

A study published in Production and Operations Management reveals a new methodology behind the Bordeaux pricing model, which uses four factors to estimate prices for fine wines. The model provides a transparent approach to setting realistic prices, reducing opportunistic behavior and adding systemic structure to decision-making.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProduction and Operations Management·DateJun 23, 2020