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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 279


Page 279 of 512

Reducing the damage of a heart attack

Cardiology researchers from San Diego State University found that the protein MANF acts as a regulator, minimizing damage after a heart attack. The discovery could lead to the administration of MANF as a drug in ambulances to reduce damage and improve recovery rates.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 23, 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.

Exciting new developments for polymers made from waste sulfur

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have developed new sulfur polymers that provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petrochemical-based plastics. The polymers, which can be recycled easily, exhibit shape-memory effects and can be self-repaired within minutes, opening up potential applications in soft robot...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 23, 2020

New opportunities for ocean and climate modelling

The new FOCI system allows for high-resolution ocean and climate modelling over centuries to millennia, enabling researchers to study natural climate fluctuations and anthropogenic climate change. With its modular design, FOCI can be configured to investigate various research questions and improve the accuracy of model simulations.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalGeoscientific Model Development·DateJun 23, 2020

Oncotarget: Bacteriome and mycobiome and bacteriome-mycobiome interactions

Researchers characterized bacteriome, mycobiome, and mycobiome-bacteriome interactions of oral wash in Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients, finding distinct differences compared to healthy controls. Unique interactions between fungal and bacterial communities may serve as potential screening tool for HNSCC.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 23, 2020

Researchers identify distinct subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome with novel genetic associations

Researchers identified reproductive and metabolic subtypes of PCOS associated with novel gene regions, promising to transform understanding of the disorder. The study used clustering of clinical, metabolic, and hormonal data from women with PCOS, revealing two distinct subtypes with different genetic architectures.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 23, 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.

Helicopter or cartwheel?

The study investigates how molecules rotate when colliding with surfaces and its impact on the outcome of collisions. The research found that the rotational orientation of hydrogen molecules significantly influences their interaction with a Lithium Fluoride surface, affecting scattering probabilities, adsorption, or decomposition.

SourceSwansea University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 23, 2020

Genetic analysis suggests distinct subtypes of polycystic ovary syndrome

A study funded by NIH analyzed nearly 900 women with irregular menstrual periods and identified two PCOS subtypes, each associated with distinct groups of gene variants. The reproductive subtype had higher levels of luteinizing hormone and lower BMI, while the metabolic group had a higher BMI and insulin levels.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020

Slow-growing rotavirus mutant reveals early steps of viral assembly

A slow-growing rotavirus mutant has allowed researchers to observe the early steps of viral assembly, providing new insights into the formation of viroplasms. The study found that NSP2 phosphorylation plays a crucial role in triggering lipid droplet formation, a key step in viroplasm formation.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJun 23, 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.

Researcher develops tool to protect children's online privacy

Researchers developed a tool called COPPTCHA that can detect Android games and mobile apps in compliance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) with 99% accuracy. The tool accesses device-level activity, posing risks to child users if exploited by traffickers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalIEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security·DateJun 23, 2020

Research determines financial benefit from driving electric vehicles

Researchers at NREL have found that driving electric vehicles can save motorists as much as $14,500 on fuel costs over 15 years. The study considered state-by-state differences and the cost of charging equipment and installation costs to estimate total fuel cost savings.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·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.

Parkinson's Foundation awards nurse faculty grants

The Parkinson's Foundation has awarded nearly $30,000 in grants to three nurses who specialize in Parkinson's care. The grant recipients will launch individual projects to improve life for people with Parkinson's disease in their local community.

SourceParkinson's Foundation·DateJun 23, 2020

Statement on metabolic and bariatric surgery during COVID-19 pandemic

The ASMBS emphasizes the effectiveness of metabolic and bariatric surgery in treating severe obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. The organization recommends carefully considering individual patient factors and local COVID-19 prevalence before resuming procedures.

SourceAmerican Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery·JournalSurgery for Obesity and Related Diseases·DateJun 23, 2020

Brain exosomes from blood samples allow earlier diagnosis of ALS

Researchers at Brain Chemistry Labs have developed a new blood test that can diagnose ALS earlier than current methods, using brain exosomes and microRNA. The test, based on genetic material shed by different tissues, distinguishes between ALS patients and healthy controls with high accuracy.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 23, 2020

Lack of damage after secondary impacts surprises researchers

A recent study on spall fracture in metals revealed that certain materials can withstand secondary shocks with minimal damage, even without obvious signs of voids and cracks. The researchers found that a specific shock stress could recompact damaged copper targets and create new bonds between the broken surfaces.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 23, 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.

LIGO-Virgo finds mystery object in 'mass gap'

Scientists have detected an object of 2.6 solar masses, firmly placing it within the 'mass gap' between neutron stars and black holes. The discovery was made using LIGO and Virgo detectors and may challenge current theoretical models.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateJun 23, 2020

Dimethylsulfoniopropionate concentration in coral reef invertebrates

A study published in Scientific Reports highlights how benthic assemblages impact coral and giant clam species' dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) production. The researchers found that DMSP concentration is modulated according to the complexity of species assemblages, suggesting a connection between neighbors and metabolism.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 23, 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.

Obesity linked to higher dementia risk

A new study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology found that obesity is associated with a higher risk of dementia, with women facing a 39% increased risk. The study suggests that weight management could play a significant role in reducing this risk.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJun 23, 2020

A bacterial toxin turning cells into swiss cheese

Researchers from Kanazawa University purified and characterized Monalysin, a pore-forming bacterial toxin, to study its interaction with the innate immune system. The study revealed that activated Monalysin forms pores in cell membranes, leading to cell death, and that it preferentially inserts into curved parts of membranes.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJun 23, 2020

Extending the coverage of PM2.5 monitoring to help improve air quality

By extending available data, researchers developed a method to estimate mass concentrations of particulate matter from humidity and visibility measurements. This approach has the potential to provide broader understanding of how particulate matter evolves and improve visibility in daily life.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 23, 2020

How does the electronic medical record affect physician education?

A new study found that electronic medical records (EMRs) enhance the education of nephrology fellows, providing efficient access to patient lab and x-ray results. However, EMR data entry time demands contribute to work-hour violations, frustration, and burnout among fellows.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJun 23, 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.

Dieting success: Top performers provide more positive support than peers

A new study finds that social interactions with top performers have a positive impact on weight loss success, while those with average performers have a negative effect. The study suggests using the successes of top performers to inspire dieters and avoid using overall group success as a benchmark.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJun 23, 2020

Simple device monitors health using sweat

Researchers at Penn State and Xiangtan University developed a device that analyzes sweat for biomarkers like pH and glucose to monitor health conditions. The single-opening device reduces evaporation and allows for on-the-spot analysis using a colorimetric approach.

SourcePenn State·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJun 23, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Blocking sugar metabolism slows lung tumor growth

A study suggests that blocking two sugar-transporting proteins could help slow the growth of lung tumors. Researchers genetically engineered mice with lung cancer and found that tumors grew slower when both glucose transporters were lacking.

SourceeLife·DateJun 23, 2020

Role-play shows which expectant dads will thrive as new fathers

A five-minute role-play with a doll predicted parenting quality nine months after birth, measuring intuitive parenting skills such as talking to the face and showing concern. The study found that these skills can be taught, and good co-parenting relationships and personality traits also predict better parenting.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 23, 2020

Does 'mommy brain' last? Study shows motherhood does not diminish attention

A new study from Purdue University finds that mothers do not have diminished attention and may even have better executive control attention compared to non-mothers. The research used a revised Attention Network Test to compare reaction times among 60 mothers and 70 non-mothers, finding no evidence to support the 'mommy brain' stereotype.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCurrent Psychology·DateJun 23, 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.

Scientists modelled natural rock arcades

Researchers from Russia and the Czech Republic modelled natural rock arcades, finding that they appear in areas with discontinuities due to erosion. The study used a mathematical model that describes the formation of arches and pillars through weathering and erosion processes.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGeomorphology·DateJun 23, 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.

Income, race are associated with disparities in access to green spaces

Researchers analyzed data from Columbus, Ohio, and Atlanta, Georgia, to find that income and race significantly affect access to green spaces. Wealthier neighborhoods have greater access to parks, trees, and sports fields in Columbus, while racial disparities are more pronounced in Atlanta.

SourceOhio State University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateJun 23, 2020

Hot ring produces microwave-powered ultrasound pulses wirelessly

Researchers develop wireless ultrasound transducer that uses microwave absorption to generate sound waves, avoiding acoustic losses. The device consists of a copper ring with an oil-filled envelope, which concentrates microwaves into a hot-spot for efficient ultrasound emission.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 23, 2020

Launch of mobile app that controls the perfect amount of fertilizers and water

The Reutivar App aims to optimize fertilizer and water application in olive orchards, reducing waste and environmental impact. By using reclaimed water with macronutrient content, farmers can control fertilizing calendars and reduce nitrogen use, promoting a more sustainable approach to irrigation.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalComputers and Electronics in Agriculture·DateJun 23, 2020

Study: Air pollution major risk for cardiovascular disease regardless of country income

A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate outdoor air pollution is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. The study analyzed data from 157,436 adults across 21 countries and found a significant link between PM2.5 exposure and cardiovascular events.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJun 23, 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.

NASA satellite gives a hello to tropical storm Dolly

Tropical Storm Dolly formed over the Northern Atlantic Ocean after transitioning from a subtropical depression. NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of the storm on June 23, revealing strong winds and a thick band of thunderstorms. The National Hurricane Center predicts Dolly will weaken and become post-tropical by Wednesday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 23, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The COVID-19 pandemic is causing deaths with forced separations that deny final goodbyes and traditional mourning rituals. Bereavement care is essential to offset the risks of psychological distress. Authors suggest words clinicians can say to bereaved family members and guidance on referrals.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 23, 2020

A blue spark to shine on the origin of the Universe

An ultra-sensitive sensor has been developed to detect the nuclear decay of heavy neutrinos, which could explain the cosmic asymmetry between matter and antimatter. The researchers used a new fluorescent molecule to capture the barium ion produced in the process, providing a clear signal.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature·DateJun 23, 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.

Tracking down cryptic peptides

Scientists at the University of Würzburg have identified thousands of cryptic HLA peptides in tumor immunopeptidomes using a novel bioinformatics method. These peptides may serve as effective targets for cancer immunotherapies and vaccines against virus-infected cells.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateJun 23, 2020

Getting real with immersive sword fights

A team at the University of Bath has developed Touche, a data-driven computer model that generates responsive animations against attacks and eliminates non-reactive behavior from characters. This framework simplifies the necessary technical work to achieve a convincing simulation, resulting in more realistic results for game developers.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJun 23, 2020

Leveraging biodiversity science infrastructure in the COVID-19 era

The pandemic has highlighted the need for greater collaboration between biodiversity collections and other fields of study. Biodiversity data can be used to prevent or mitigate future infectious outbreaks. New investments are needed to support research and education in biodiversity science.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJun 23, 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.

Star-shaped brain cells may play a critical role in glaucoma

A new study in rodents suggests that star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes may be responsible for killing nerve cells in glaucoma. The study found that increased pressure drove astrocytes to release toxins that killed neurons, highlighting a potential target for treating the disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 23, 2020