Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2020 - Page 300


Page 300 of 512

Artificial intelligence enhances brain tumor diagnosis

A new machine learning approach classifies gliomas into low or high grades with near-perfect accuracy, enabling clinicians to choose the most effective treatment strategy. Researchers developed the method using MRI scans from over 200 patients and achieved an accuracy rate of 97.54%, outperforming state-of-the-art approaches.

SourceKyoto University·JournalIEEE Access·DateJun 9, 2020

Machine learning predicts nanoparticles' structure and dynamics

Researchers developed machine learning methods to predict nanoparticles' structures and atomic dynamics, significantly faster than traditional simulation methods. The new methods facilitated efficient explorations of particle-particle reactions and particles' functionality in their environment.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateJun 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Orthotics breakthrough helps children with Cerebral Palsy walk and play

Researchers at Staffordshire University have developed an orthotics breakthrough that fine-tunes splints for children with cerebral palsy, reducing their energy usage while increasing mobility and speed. The study found significant improvements in hip and pelvic function, knee extension, and overall quality of life.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalThe Foot·DateJun 9, 2020

Porous materials for the 'Energy Revolution'

Researchers at TU Dresden are developing nanostructured porous carbon materials for sustainable energy applications. Prof. Qiang Xu joins the team to advance hydrogen evolution catalysis and electrical energy storage.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateJun 9, 2020

National survey shows different bacteria on cell phones and shoes

A recent study found that cell phones and shoes harbor distinct communities of microbes, with shoes displaying greater diversity. The research also uncovered a substantial proportion of 'microbial dark matter' groups, previously unexplored in lab settings.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 9, 2020

Putting COVID-19 diagnostic tests to the 'test' -- how do they hold up?

Researchers tested 27 published diagnostic PCR assays and found seven with potential sequence mismatch issues that may lead to underperforming or false-negative COVID-19 test results. This study highlights the importance of re-evaluating current tests periodically to ensure their efficacy in detecting circulating variants of the virus.

SourceYork University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 9, 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.

Water vapor in the atmosphere may be prime renewable energy source

Scientists find electricity generated by interactions between water molecules and metals can be harnessed to create a new source of energy. The study reveals that high humidity levels above 60% can produce voltages up to one volt, offering potential for developing batteries charged from water vapor in the air.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 9, 2020

How effective are language learning apps?

A study by Michigan State University found that language learning apps, such as Babbel, can improve oral communication skills and not just grammar and vocabulary acquisition. Students who used the app for longer periods showed greater improvement in their Spanish language knowledge.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalForeign Language Annals·DateJun 9, 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.

Down to the bone: Understanding how bone-dissolving cells are generated

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered the significance of protein Cpeb4 in the formation of osteoclasts, bone-dissolving cells responsible for osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that Cpeb4 plays a critical role in osteoclast differentiation, with its relocalization to nuclei influencing cell behavior.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateJun 9, 2020

Snapshot of exploding oxygen

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have developed a new experimental technique using the European XFEL's powerful laser pulse to 'X-ray' individual oxygen molecules. The resulting images show the atomic structure and fragmentation process of the molecule, providing valuable insights into its behavior.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 9, 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.

A new mechanism improves the efficiency of antibacterial surfaces

Researchers have developed a nanometric-scale theoretical model to create structures that kill bacteria by using elastic forces. The flexibility of these pillars is closely connected to their appearance, and varying the height of the pillars can determine their bactericidal efficacy.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Ways to disrupt protein synthesis in Staphylococcus aureus found

Scientists at Kazan Federal University identify a unique post-translational modification in Staphylococcus aureus elongation factor P protein. This discovery provides a promising target for developing new antibiotics to combat nosocomial infections.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalFEBS Open Bio·DateJun 9, 2020

Re-trafficking proteins to fight Salmonella infections

Scientists investigated how immune cells respond to Salmonella infection and found that cathepsins move to the nucleus of infected cells, leading to inflammatory programmed cell death. This discovery shows the benefit of monitoring protein dynamics during infection and unraveling new pathways to defend against pathogens.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 9, 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.

Mexican immigrant obesity rates climb with deportation fears

A Rutgers University study found that Mexican immigrants are at increased risk for obesity after arriving in the US, mainly due to stress and limited access to healthy foods. Researchers discovered that fear of deportation discourages adults from leaving their homes or seeking help, leading to reliance on cheap, high-sugar foods.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProgress in Community Health Partnerships Research Education and Action·DateJun 9, 2020

Scientists warn against 'greenwashing' of global coastal developments

An international team of scientists warns that artificial structures and reclaimed land in coastal urban areas can cause more harm than good, even with green technologies. They advocate for caution and rigorous evaluation of claims over biodiversity gain to prevent 'greenwashing'.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJun 9, 2020

Lab makes 4D printing more practical

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in 4D printing by developing a method to print objects that can change shape autonomously. The technique uses liquid crystal polymers to create materials that can morph from one shape to another through temperature, electric current or stress.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 9, 2020

Essential components of dietary restriction revealed

Researchers at Monash University have discovered that reducing two essential amino acids, threonine and tryptophan, can lead to increased calorie burn and improved health in young mice. A low-threonine diet also protected obese mice from developing type 2 diabetes.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 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.

New antivirals for influenza and Zika

Researchers have created new antiviral molecules by designing synthetic amyloid peptides that can inactivate viral proteins, thereby interfering with viral replication. These 'Pept-ins' specifically target the influenza A and Zika virus proteins.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2020

Predictors of 5-year mortality in young dialysis patients

A study analyzed 363 young dialysis patients and identified key risk factors for 5-year mortality, including low albumin and elevated lactate dehydrogenase. Multimodal intervention strategies are crucial to reduce mortality risk among pediatric and adolescent dialysis patients.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateJun 9, 2020

Phenothiazine derivatives may find use in photodynamic therapy

New phenothiazine derivatives containing phenyl groups show high potential for use as photochemical agents in surgical operations and cancer treatment. The compounds' stability was ensured through the formation of binary associates, providing greater absorption in near-infrared spectrum.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalRussian Chemical Bulletin·DateJun 9, 2020

Human presence weakens social relationships of giraffes

The study reveals that human presence disrupts the complex social structures of Masai giraffe populations, leading to weaker relationship strengths and exclusive social associations. Giraffes living near humans have reduced social interactions and are more likely to encounter livestock and predators.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJun 9, 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.

AGA does not recommend the use of probiotics for most digestive conditions

The American Gastroenterological Association recommends against using probiotics to treat most digestive diseases due to a lack of strong evidence supporting their efficacy. However, certain probiotic formulations may benefit patients in specific situations, such as preventing Clostridioides difficile infection or managing pouchitis.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJun 9, 2020

Happiness might protect you from gastrointestinal distress

Research suggests serotonin can reduce the ability of certain intestinal pathogens to cause deadly infections by reducing gene expression and preventing bacterial colonization. The study found that mice overproducing serotonin were less likely to become infected with a deadly mouse gut bacterium.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 9, 2020

Predicting unpredictable reactions

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh and Politecnico di Milano advances computational catalysis by simulating realistic catalysts under reaction conditions. The researchers developed a method to model catalyst morphology and catalytic activity under reaction conditions, enabling the prediction of unpredictable reactions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJun 9, 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.

Serious complication of Crohn's disease may be preventable in young people

A new study suggests that steroid-sparing therapies can reduce the risk of developing perianal fistulas in children and young adults with Crohn's disease. These treatments have been found to be nearly 60% less effective in developing fistulas, and if they do occur, those treated with such therapies are 55% less likely to undergo surgery.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 9, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Authors describe timely and targeted actions to prevent mental health crisis in overextended and stressed essential workers, citing Lorna Breen's tragic loss as a catalyst. The article emphasizes the need for clinicians to prioritize their well-being during the pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 9, 2020

Improved MRI scans could aid in development of arthritis treatments

A new MRI scan algorithm can detect small changes in knee joints over time, enabling researchers to develop new treatments for arthritis. The algorithm creates a three-dimensional model of an individual's knee joint and automatically identifies areas of cartilage breakdown.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging·DateJun 9, 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.

Black hole's heart still beating

Astronomers have observed a confirmed heartbeat in a supermassive black hole for over ten years, with the signal repeating every hour. The research provides new insights into the black hole's size and structure close to its event horizon.

SourceDurham University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 9, 2020

NASA tracks Tropical Depression Cristobal moving toward Great Lakes

Tropical Depression Cristobal is generating large amounts of rainfall while heading towards the Great Lakes region. Forecasters expect Cristobal to produce storm total rainfall accumulations of 2-4 inches with local amounts up to 6 inches, potentially leading to flash flooding.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 9, 2020

New nanodevice could use solar energy to produce hydrogen

Scientists have designed a gold nanoparticle conjugate that can be used as a platform for developing a light-driven, water-splitting nanodevice for generating hydrogen. The PSI-GNP-PSII conjugate mimics photosynthesis to convert solar energy into chemical energy, offering a potential solution to the current energy crisis.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBiomedical Spectroscopy and Imaging·DateJun 9, 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.

Living near oil and gas wells may increase preterm birth risk

A new study found that women living within six miles of oil and gas wells in California were 8-14% more likely to experience spontaneous preterm births. The study analyzed 225,000 births from 1998 to 2011 and focused on how exposure to wells may affect health outcomes.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Epidemiology·DateJun 9, 2020

New pathway to attack tumor cells identified

Researchers have identified a new strategy to tackle cancer by inducing toxic autophagy in tumor cells, resulting in cell destruction. The antitumor drug ABTL0812 has been shown to manipulate dihydroceramides, a group of cellular lipids, causing stress and ultimately leading to cancer cell death.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalAutophagy·DateJun 9, 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.

New hints of volcanism under the heart of northern Europe

A new study using crowd-sourced GPS data reveals signs of a rising mantle plume beneath the Eifel region in western Germany. The research suggests that this ancient volcanic system may still be active, posing an increased risk of seismic activity and volcanic eruptions.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 9, 2020

Developing better fabrication techniques for pH-responsive microcapsules

Researchers have developed a new technique to create microcapsules that respond to changes in pH, useful for applications like anti-corrosion coatings. The technique uses emulsion templates and allows control over shell thickness, core volume, and capsule size.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalSoft Matter·DateJun 9, 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.

Use of emergency departments plummets during COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic saw a dramatic drop in patients seeking care in emergency departments during March and April 2020. Social distancing measures and increased hand washing helped lower the transmission of viruses, while changes in epidemiology and healthcare policies also contributed to the decline.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJun 9, 2020

Twitter fight: Birds use social networks to pick opponents wisely

Monk parakeets seem to understand where they fit in a dominance hierarchy and pick their fights accordingly, improving or maintaining their status. This ability helps animals make aggression decisions by processing different types of information.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychology·DateJun 9, 2020

BU researcher: Screening for drug use can be reasonable, but not evidence-based

The USPSTF recommends screening for unhealthy drug use in all adult patients, despite limited evidence on its effectiveness. While the practice may have some benefits, such as reducing stigma, it also poses risks, including exposure to stigma and poor counseling outcomes. Dr. Richard Saitz argues that alternative strategies should be d...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateJun 9, 2020

Renewable fuel from carbon dioxide with the aid of solar energy

Scientists at Linköping University develop a graphene-based photoelectrode that converts carbon dioxide to methane, carbon monoxide, or formic acid using solar energy. The technique could contribute to renewable energy development and reduce fossil fuel combustion's environmental impact.

SourceLinköping University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 9, 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.

Alzheimer research: Noise-inducing neurons shut down memories

Research at DZNE reveals that experience encoding neurons interfere with memory containing neurons, disturbing recall of memories. Healthy mice and those with Alzheimer-like pathology were used to explore novel environments, showing a difference in brain activity.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 9, 2020

Study reveals birth defects caused by flame retardant

A new study from the University of Georgia has found that exposure to a banned flame retardant can alter the genetic code in sperm, leading to major health defects in children. The research focuses on paternal exposure prior to conception and uses a unique combination of observational and laboratory approaches.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 9, 2020