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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 308


Page 308 of 512

Opioid addiction treatment is more widely available, but only for adults

The study found that prescriptions for buprenorphine treatment increased significantly among adults, particularly those prescribed by primary care providers. However, access to treatment decreased among young adults and teens, primarily due to a decline in prescriptions from psychiatrists and addiction medicine specialists.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 4, 2020

New material, modeling methods promise advances in energy storage

Researchers from the University of Houston have reported a structural supercapacitor electrode made from reduced graphene oxide and aramid nanofiber that is stronger and more versatile than conventional carbon-based electrodes. The new material offers promise for longer battery life and higher energy at a lighter weight.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 4, 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 infrared imagery indicates cristobal's heavy rainmaking capabilities

Cristobal has the potential to generate heavy rainfall, with NASA's AIRS instrument revealing cold cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms. The storm is expected to produce extreme rainfall amounts through the end of the week, causing life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in affected areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 4, 2020

Vision and balance issues are common in elementary school-age children with a concussion

A new study characterizes concussions in elementary school-age children, revealing common vision and balance issues that warrant consistent assessments at the initial healthcare visit. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to improve outcomes, including school accommodations and vestibular or vision therapy.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 4, 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.

Sleep, death and ... the gut?

Researchers found that death is preceded by accumulation of reactive oxidative species (ROS) in the gut, which can be neutralized to prevent premature death. The study on fruit flies suggests a key role for the gut in causing death from sleep deprivation, and may inform future efforts to address its detrimental effects in humans.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 2020

UCF's butterfly-inspired nanotech makes natural-looking pictures on digital screens

A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a new display technology that mimics the colors of butterfly wings, creating ultra-high-definition screens with extremely low power consumption. The technology uses nanoscale structures to scatter and reflect light, producing more natural-looking images without harsh glare.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2020

3D facial scans could speed diagnoses for children with rare genetic diseases

A new tool using 3D facial imaging and machine learning could help diagnose genetic syndromes more quickly and inexpensively. The prototype was created by a team of researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, and has been shown to accurately classify most subjects as either unaffected or having a syndrome.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJun 4, 2020

How cells solve their identity crisis

A team of scientists has provided clarity into how new cells remember their identity after cell division. They found that many genes are activated immediately after cell division, acting in a cascade to send critical signals and allow the cell to 'wake up' from its cellular amnesia.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 4, 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.

Discovery unlocks 'hot' electrons for more efficient energy use

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique to analyze the energies of 'hot' electrons, which could lead to more efficient energy conversion in solar panels and other applications. The method uses a scanning tunneling microscope integrated with lasers and optical components.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2020

Lighting the way to porous electronics and sensors

A straightforward fabrication method has been introduced by researchers from Osaka University to improve the gas sensing performance of common ceramic coatings. The new method involves depositing a thin, porous titanium dioxide film onto a surface using spin coating, resulting in a significant increase in detection speed and accuracy.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateJun 3, 2020

Preliminary Criterion scores do not help counteract racial gap in NIH grant awards

A new study finds that preliminary criterion scores do not mitigate racial disparities in NIH grant awards, with black investigators receiving worse scores on all five criteria. The study reveals substantial funding gaps between black and white applicants, with black PIs award probability only 55% of their white counterparts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 3, 2020

Super water-repellent materials are now durable enough for the real world

Researchers at Aalto University have created an armour-plated superhydrophobic surface that can withstand sharp and blunt objects while maintaining its world-record effectiveness in repelling liquids. The surface features a honeycomb-like structure of tiny inverted pyramids, protecting the fragile chemical coating from damage.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Osteoporosis treatment may also protect against pneumonia

A recent study found that N-BPs like alendronate are associated with a 24% lower risk of pneumonia and 35% lower risk of pneumonia mortality compared to no treatment. The results suggest that N-BP treatment may also protect against pneumonia, warranting further investigation into its potential for treating COVID-19 symptoms.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJun 3, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New research leads to lighter and greener bridges

Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark have developed a new design for bridge girders that uses topology optimization to minimize steel use while maintaining strength. The design could lead to weight reductions of up to 28% and corresponding CO2 emissions savings of up to 20%.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020

Cholesterol levels dropping in Western nations -- but rising in Asia

The study found that total and non-HDL cholesterol levels are falling sharply in high-income countries, particularly those in North-western Europe, North America, and Australasia, while rising in low- and middle-income nations, especially in East and Southeast Asia. This shift has significant implications for global cardiovascular health.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Larger streams are critical for wild brook trout conservation

A genetic analysis of brook trout in Loyalsock Creek drainage reveals that fish are moving between tributaries, using the mainstem as a seasonal corridor. This finding contradicts previous research and suggests that conservation efforts should focus on larger streams and rivers to protect critical movement corridors.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcological Applications·DateJun 3, 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.

Does using marijuana affect a person's risk of stroke?

A new study has found no link between recent cannabis use and an increased or decreased risk of ischemic stroke. Despite previous studies with conflicting results, researchers adjusted for various factors and found no association between marijuana use and stroke risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 3, 2020

Hubble makes surprising find in the early universe

A team of European researchers used Hubble Space Telescope to study the early Universe, finding no evidence of Population III stars. The discovery suggests that galaxies must have formed much earlier than previously thought, supporting the idea that low-mass galaxies are responsible for reionisation.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 3, 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.

Respiratory virus builds 'doorbell' to trick its way into cells, researchers find

Researchers found that RSV manipulates two gene receptors in cells to gain entry and infect. The discovery sheds light on how the common respiratory syncytial virus breaks into cells, a key step in infection. Current treatment options are limited, but blocking the interaction of the virus with the receptor may prevent infection.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Video messages may help spread the word about antibiotic risks

Researchers at Penn State created a brief animated video to educate people about the risks of antibiotics, finding it effective in convincing participants that antibiotic use can be risky. The study suggests that a video intervention could help increase public awareness and promote antibiotic stewardship.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateJun 3, 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.

'Breast is best' push out of touch

Researchers found only 34% of mothers exclusively breastfed to six months due to milk shortages or breastfeeding difficulties. Mothers may need to supplement or stop if they experience problems.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Human Lactation·DateJun 3, 2020

Human activity threatens 50 billion years of vertebrate evolutionary history

A new study maps the world's terrestrial vertebrates and finds that human activity is impacting areas with large concentrations of evolutionarily distinct species. Regions like the Caribbean, Western Ghats of India, and Southeast Asia face unprecedented levels of devastation.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 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.

Caring for patients on COVID-19 units: an approach for hospitals

A COVID-19 patient care approach has been developed to help hospitals safely care for patients, featuring dedicated units with risk zones and buddy systems for healthcare professionals. Key findings include adopting patient-centred practices, fostering a culture of safety, and standardizing procedures.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 3, 2020

Rivers help lock carbon from fires into oceans for thousands of years

Research reveals that rivers play a crucial role in transporting burned carbon from wildfires and managed burning to oceans, where it can be stored for tens of millennia. The study estimates that 18 million tonnes of dissolved burned carbon are transported annually by rivers.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020

The roots of a staple crop

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researcher Douglas J. Kennett and collaborators found that maize had become a staple grain in the Americas 4,700 years ago, exceeding what is considered a staple grain. By 4,000 years ago, maize was persistently used as a staple, continuing through the Classic Maya period until today.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 3, 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.

Oncotarget: Anticancer effect of physical activity is mediated

A study published in Oncotarget found that physical activity can modulate miRNAs involved in breast cancer progression, leading to reduced cancer cell viability. The researchers identified two specific miRNAs, miR-206 and anti-miR-30c, which showed promising results as non-invasive biomarkers for breast cancer prevention.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 3, 2020

Why developing nerve cells can take a wrong turn

Researchers found that the loss of UBE2K enzyme silences key genes for neuronal differentiation, leading to impaired development of nerve cells. The study provides a potential link between epigenetic regulation and neurodevelopmental diseases.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJun 3, 2020

Scientists create smallest semiconductor laser

Researchers develop nanoparticle-sized semiconductor laser generating coherent green light at room temperature, overcoming a significant technological hurdle. The tiny laser operates efficiently without external pressure or low temperatures.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 3, 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.

Pushing photons

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara developed a new approach to design LEDs that can extract and direct photons with high efficiency. By using metasurface concepts, they were able to confine electrons and holes in gallium nitride nanorods, allowing more light to escape the semiconductor structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 3, 2020

Study puts price tag on lost earnings from racial disparities in cancer mortality

A new study by the American Cancer Society finds that racial disparities in cancer mortality result in significant economic losses, with $3.2 billion in lost earnings avoided in 2015 if non-Hispanic black cancer deaths and earning rates had been equal to those of non-Hispanic white cancer patients. The study highlights the importance o...

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJNCI Cancer Spectrum·DateJun 3, 2020

Age affects decisions related to breast cancer surgery

A new study found that age does not necessarily disqualify older patients from breast cancer surgery, but serious adverse events are rare. Surgery can have a negative impact on quality of life and functional independence in older patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBJS·DateJun 3, 2020

ETH researchers deconstruct tissue repair

Researchers from ETH Zurich have deconstructed the complex mechanisms that control tissue repair and scar formation, focusing on a signal molecule called activin. The study reveals how activin affects cell interactions and extracellular matrix composition, promoting wound healing but also causing scarring.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 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.

Metasurface opens world of polarization

Researchers from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences designed a metasurface that can continuously tune from linear to elliptical birefringence, opening up the entire space of polarization control with just one device.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 3, 2020

Pinpointing the origins of Jerusalem's Temple Mount

A recent study using radiocarbon dating and microarchaeology has pinpointed the construction dates of Wilson's Arch on Jerusalem's Temple Mount to between 20 BC and 60 AD during Herod the Great's reign. This new timeline resolves a long-standing debate about the entrance to the holiest site in Jerusalem.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 3, 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.

Penn State researchers evaluate 2020 Census data privacy changes

A Penn State research team examined the effects of differential privacy on mortality rates in 2010, revealing dramatic changes in population counts for racial and ethnic minorities. The findings highlight concerns about data accuracy, funding allocations, and understated health risks in some areas.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2020

The broken mirror: Can parity violation in molecules finally be measured?

Researchers at PRISMA+ Cluster of Excellence and Helmholtz Institute Mainz propose a realistic path to demonstrating parity violation in molecules. They develop a special NMR measurement variable and carry out complex theoretical analyses to calculate the expected effect within the molecule.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJun 3, 2020

Researchers develop sustainable method for extracting vanillin from wood processing waste

Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed a new sustainable method to extract vanillin from lignin, reducing toxic waste and increasing commercial viability. The process uses electrolytic depolymerization in caustic soda, producing high-quality vanillin with a yield of around four percent.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 3, 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.

Ultra-bright X-ray source awakens near a galaxy not so far away

A team of Indian scientists has detected a broad-energy X-ray pulsation in the new source, classifying it as an ultra-luminous X-ray pulsar (ULXP). The object is thought to be a neutron star with a rotation period of up to 100 times per second.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 3, 2020

Largest, oldest Maya monument suggests importance of communal work

The newly discovered Aguada Fénix site in Mexico's Tabasco state is the largest and oldest known Mayan monument, constructed between 1,000 to 800 B.C. The site suggests that the Maya civilization developed more rapidly than previously thought and had less social inequality than later periods.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Here be methane: Skoltech scientists investigate the origins of a gaping permafrost crater

Researchers from Skoltech studied a 20-meter wide and 20-meter deep crater in the Yamal Peninsula that formed after an explosive release of gas, mostly methane, from the permafrost. They found that the strongly negative δ13C ratio of methane pointed to a biogenic source, while other ratios suggested a deeper thermogenic source.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGeosciences·DateJun 3, 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.

Study demonstrates association between exposure to air pollution and vascular damage

A study published in Environment International found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon increases the risk of vascular damage in people living in India. The research, which analyzed data from over 3,000 individuals, showed a non-linear association between PM2.5 exposure and vascular injury.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·DateJun 3, 2020