Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2020 - Page 296


Page 296 of 512

An aspirin a day keeps the bowel doctor away

Research from Newcastle University reveals that aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of bowel cancer in people with Lynch syndrome. The study found that taking two aspirins a day for two years reduced colon cancer by half, with protection lasting over 10 years.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Putting 'super' in natural killer cells

Scientists create super-powered natural killer cells by deleting an inhibitory gene, resulting in improved anti-tumor activity and persistence. The modified cells also exhibit enhanced metabolic reprogramming and energy utilization, leading to more effective cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 11, 2020

An ion channel senses cell swelling and helps cells to choose a response

Plant cells use mechanosensitive ion channels to sense cell swelling and induce programmed cell death. This regulatory mechanism protects the plant from damage. The discovery provides insight into how plants respond to mechanical signals, such as cell swelling, rather than chemical signals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 11, 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.

Type III interferons: Protective or harmful in COVID-19?

A recent study found that type III interferons can fight viral infection while limiting inflammatory damage, but also increase the risk of life-threatening bacterial superinfections in the lung. The researchers caution that these interferons may be more harmful than beneficial when given later in the course of COVID-19.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 2020

Sex-specific canary colors driven by simple molecular mechanisms

Researchers identified BCO2 gene as key driver of dichromatism in mosaic canaries, where males and females have strikingly different coloration. The findings provide insights into the evolution of sexually selected traits like dichromatism.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 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.

Six Purdue innovators advance their technologies through Trask funding

Six Purdue University researchers received $212,845 from the Trask Innovation Fund to support their patented innovations in life science and physical sciences. The funding will aid faculty and staff with commercialization efforts through the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization.

SourcePurdue University·DateJun 11, 2020

Study examines emotional regulation, family history as risk factors for suicidal behavior

A recent study at Nationwide Children's Hospital explores the intersection of parental history of suicidal behavior and emotion regulation in children aged 6-9. The research suggests that early intervention with emotion regulation strategies may decrease the likelihood of risk factors associated with future suicidal behaviors.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateJun 11, 2020

An essential sustainable farming practice faces one big limitation: Land to produce seeds

The use of cover crops is increasing globally due to their environmental benefits, such as reducing erosion and improving water quality. However, planting millions of acres of cover crops will require huge extensions of land to produce cover crop seed, posing a limitation to its widespread adoption.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJun 11, 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 rescue mini retinas from eye disease via new gene therapy approach

Scientists have developed a new gene therapy approach that offers tremendous promise for treating an eye disease that leads to blindness. The collaborative team used a modified virus to deliver a normal functioning copy of the RP2 gene into 'mini retinas' containing the defective version, resulting in significant improvement.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 11, 2020

Improving the operation and performance of Wi-Fi networks for the 5G/6G ecosystem

Researchers have improved Wi-Fi network operation and performance for the 5G/6G ecosystem by applying machine learning techniques. A new algorithm, ε-sticky, is proposed to reduce service disruptions and network instability, benefiting both stations that have found a suitable access point and those that haven't.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalComputer Communications·DateJun 11, 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.

Applying 'magic angle' twistronics to manipulate the flow of light

Monash researchers have successfully applied 'magic angle' twistronics to control the flow of light in extreme ways. By stacking two thin sheets of molybdenum-trioxide and rotating one layer, they observed controllable light waves over a wide range of wavelengths, enabling robust light propagation in tightly focused beams.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2020

NIH scientists develop blood test to help improve liver cancer screening

Researchers developed a blood test that detects viral exposure signatures linked to liver cancer risk. The test showed high accuracy in distinguishing patients with hepatocellular carcinoma from those with chronic liver disease and healthy volunteers. It has the potential to improve liver cancer screening and early detection.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 11, 2020

Brain cells can harbor and spread HIV virus to the body

Researchers found that astrocytes in the brain can harbor HIV and spread it to immune cells that travel to other organs, even when treated with combination antiretroviral therapy. The study suggests that HIV reservoirs in the brain must be targeted for effective cure strategies.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJun 11, 2020

A creative way to expand the geriatrics workforce

A study found that an undergraduate service-learning course using music and filmmaking helped students connect with people with dementia, share unique stories, and process new experiences. The creative approach has the potential to humanize dementia and motivate a new generation of healthcare professionals.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 11, 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.

Refugee children get better health, nutrition via e-vouchers

Research by Cornell University found that electronic food vouchers, provided to Rohingya families through the United Nations' World Food Programme, allow for a greater range of nutritious foods. This led to improved height and weight gains among young children, as they were able to access more calorically and nutrient-dense foods.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 11, 2020

Female researchers majorly under-represented in COVID-19 research

A recent study found a major gender gap in COVID-19 research authorship, with women comprising only 34% of all authors and even fewer in senior positions. The disparity may be due to various factors such as limited time commitment, lack of access, or societal norms that favor men in leadership roles.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateJun 11, 2020

Doing good does you good

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that regular volunteer work among older adults (50+) significantly reduces mortality risk, improves sense of well-being, and boosts physical activity. However, volunteering did not show direct impact on chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 11, 2020

Denisovan DNA influences immune system of modern day Oceanian populations

Scientists have discovered over 120,000 novel human genetic variations affecting immune response, disease susceptibility, and digestion in diverse worldwide populations. These variations were inherited from Denisovan ancestors and include medically-important genes that can affect treatment efficacy.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 11, 2020

Caging technique yields very fast CRISPR

Researchers have developed a fast CRISPR system that reduces cleavage time from hours to seconds, allowing for high-resolution DNA repair studies and single allele-level genetic editing. The technique uses light-sensitive nucleotides to control Cas9's action, enabling precise control over the editing process.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 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.

Can your gut microbes tell you how old you really are?

A new deep learning-based aging clock uses whole genome sequencing data from thousands of gut bacteria to predict human biological age. The study shows that the age of the host is a significant contributor to gut community dynamics, with microflora succession patterns associated with age progression.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournaliScience·DateJun 11, 2020

Researchers model human stem cells to identify degeneration in glaucoma

Using human stem cell models, researchers identified deficits within cells damaged by glaucoma and found that correcting genetic mutations could slow disease progression. They also discovered dysfunction in autophagy, a process that removes damaged cells, which correlated with neurodegeneration.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 11, 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.

How Dashcams help and hinder forensics

Researchers from WMG, University of Warwick assessed seven dashcam devices to identify artefacts that can be synthesised using tools such as native video players. The study found that digital forensics faces significant issues in managing and processing dashcam evidence.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalForensic Science International·DateJun 11, 2020

The disease pyramid: Environment, pathogen, individual and microbiome

Research highlights importance of microbiome in disease interactions, including how it strengthens resistance to pathogens and influences the spread of diseases like chytridiomycosis. Climate change can disrupt the balance of the microbiome, making organisms more susceptible to infection.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateJun 11, 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.

UNC-Chapel Hill researchers create new type of COVID-19 antibody test

The new RBD-based antibody test can measure the levels of a unique piece of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, correlating with neutralizing antibodies that provide immunity. This test is highly specific for COVID-19 and can identify asymptomatic virus infections and measure immunity levels in individuals.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience Immunology·DateJun 11, 2020

Simple explanation suffices for conduction in nickelates

Scientists from University of Groningen discovered that nickelates' metal state can be tuned using strain and oxygen vacancies, leading to improved conductivity. This finding may help design electronics emulating neurons and developing cognitive computing devices.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 2020

A novel mechanism that triggers a cellular immune response

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine propose a novel mechanism that directs the immune response toward a cellular type, involving Major Histocompatibility Complex proteins. This mechanism may offer a valuable opportunity to design vaccines for more effective and durable cell-based immunity against viral diseases and cancers.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJun 11, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers from University of Washington and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center propose using multigroup, adaptively randomized trials to compare multiple COVID-19 interventions. This design may reduce adverse outcomes during trials and enable faster implementation of effective treatments.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 11, 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.

Hallucinations in people with seizures may point to suicide risk

A study published in Epilepsia journal found that 8% of individuals with a history of seizures report hallucinations, which are associated with a higher risk of mental health disorders and suicidal behavior. The study highlights the importance of assessing hallucinations in epilepsy clinics to identify high-risk patients.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalEpilepsia·DateJun 11, 2020

Scientists detect unexpected widespread structures near Earth's core

Researchers found echoes from features deep inside Earth, revealing more widespread and heterogeneous structures at the core-mantle boundary. The study provided a new perspective on the geologic processes happening deep inside Earth, shedding light on plate tectonics and planet evolution.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateJun 11, 2020

Fentanyl tops list of drugs found in Baltimore overdose patients

A new study found fentanyl was the most prevalent drug in overdose patients at two Baltimore hospital emergency departments, detected in 73-87% of specimens. The Maryland Emergency Department Drug Surveillance System helped identify this trend, highlighting the need for hospitals to add fentanyl testing to their routine panels.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateJun 11, 2020

Half the earth relatively intact from global human influence

A study presents clear opportunities to conserve what remains of Earth's ice-free land without significant human influence. The research aims to inform the upcoming global Convention on Biological Diversity and emphasizes the importance of maintaining natural lands in separating animal and human activity.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJun 11, 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.

Utah's arches continue to whisper their secrets

Researchers assess the stresses and health of Utah's natural rock arches by analyzing seismic vibrations, revealing the effects of erosion on their shapes. The studies provide valuable information on the mechanical properties of rocks and the dominant sculpting agents behind arch formation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 11, 2020

New efficient ships won't be enough to curb shipping sector's environmental damage

A University of Manchester study reveals that existing ships will dominate the sector's impact on climate change, and could even swallow up shipping's entire safe carbon budget. Retrofitting existing ships and implementing emission-reducing measures such as slower speeds and renewable technologies are key to reducing committed emissions.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMC Energy·DateJun 11, 2020

Healthcare providers need behavioral health support during COVID-19 outbreak

A new Health Affairs blog post proposes a three-part strategy to address the impact of sustained psychological and moral distress on healthcare workers. The plan includes prevention measures, building behavioral health treatment capacity, and managing long-term effects, in an effort to prioritize both physical and mental health.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 11, 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.

Freshly printed magnets

Scientists at Empa used 3D laser printing to produce materials with specific magnetic properties. By varying the size and lifetime of the melt pool, they were able to create alloy compositions with precise control over nitrogen content.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateJun 11, 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.

Viewing dopamine receptors in their native habitat

Researchers embed dopamine receptors in phospholipid membrane to study their structure and behavior. The findings could lead to the development of more precise drugs for treating conditions like Parkinson's disease and addiction.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2020