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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 313


Page 313 of 512

Your brain needs to be ready to remember?

Researchers found that when hippocampal neurons are already firing at high rates before seeing a word, participants are more successful in encoding and remembering the word later. This suggests that the hippocampus may have a specific mode for facilitating memory formation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

K-State study reveals asymmetry in spin directions of galaxies

Researchers analyzed over 200,000 spiral galaxies, finding a pattern of asymmetry in their spin directions that suggests the early universe may have been spinning. The study also reveals complex cosmological multipoles, which indicate a non-symmetric structure to the universe.

SourceKansas State University·DateJun 1, 2020

Carbon nanotube transistors make the leap from lab to factory floor

Researchers at MIT demonstrate the mass production of carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNFETs) using a commercial manufacturing facility. This breakthrough enables the creation of 3D microprocessors with unprecedented energy efficiency and performance, potentially surpassing silicon-based technology.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateJun 1, 2020

The interface of genomic information with the electronic health record

The interface of genomic information with the electronic health record emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy, access, and privacy in integrating genomic data into EHRs. The document provides guidelines on data storage, access, and usage, aiming to optimize benefits while minimizing harm, and recommends standards for interoperab...

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJun 1, 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.

COVID-19 could be a seasonal illness

A study found an association between lower humidity and increased COVID-19 cases in Sydney. Lower humidity makes airborne viruses more transmissible due to smaller aerosol size, increasing exposure for others. Further research is needed to determine this relationship's extent and impact on case notification rates.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·DateJun 1, 2020

FloChiP, a new tool optimizing gene-regulation studies

Scientists have developed a new approach to chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) called FloChIP, which uses microfluidics to automate and lower the cost and complexity of the technique. This method can perform multiple ChIP-seq assays simultaneously and reproducibly in an automated way.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

Researchers control cattle microbiomes to reduce methane and greenhouse gases

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have successfully controlled the microbiome of cattle, inhibiting their methane production and reducing greenhouse gases. The findings, published in Nature Communications, provide a new approach to mitigating climate change by targeting the animal microbiome.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The cascade to criticality

Quasiperiodic structures exhibit unique beauty and intriguing physics, but a lack of overarching framework hindered understanding. Researchers establish versatile tools for exploring quantum behavior in diverse quasiperiodic settings, demonstrating the strength of their approach to uncover new physical mechanisms.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 1, 2020

Squid studies suggest new route to therapy for ALS, targeting synaptic dysfunction

Scientists have discovered that a mutant protein associated with familial ALS disrupts neurotransmission at the squid giant synapse. Intermittent high-frequency stimulation restores synaptic function, suggesting a new approach to therapeutic intervention for ALS. This study provides insights into fundamental synaptic physiology and off...

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournaleNeuro·DateJun 1, 2020

Researchers aim to reduce LGBTQ youth suicide with novel intervention

A new study aims to develop an evidence-based intervention program to prevent suicide among LGBTQ youth and young adults. The SDSU research team will work with social workers to provide coping strategies, support groups, and mental health resources to individuals who have attempted suicide.

SourceSan Diego State University·DateJun 1, 2020

Russian scientists to improve the battery for sensors

Researchers at Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University created a solid-state thin-film battery with high specific energy density, suitable for miniature devices like biosensors and smartwatches. The new technology uses Atomic Layer Deposition to produce lithium nickelate cathodes, improving performance and efficiency.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalEnergies·DateJun 1, 2020

Lessening water quality problems caused by hurricane-related flooding

Hurricane flooding can lead to widespread water pollution, affecting human health and ecosystems. Researchers have developed an algorithm to identify flooded areas beyond state-mapped hazard zones, with a focus on vulnerable communities and potential sources of pollution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 1, 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 biosensor visualizes stress in living plant cells in real time

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new nanosensor, SNACS, to monitor SnRK2 protein kinase activity in live plant cells. This allows for the study of drought tolerance mechanisms in unprecedented detail, providing insights into how plants respond to environmental stress.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJun 1, 2020

Ten years of ecosystem services matrix: Review of a (r)evolution

The ES Matrix approach has been applied to assess ecosystem services in various studies, allowing for a higher number of ES assessment than other methods. However, the approach often lacks transparency and variability analyses, recommending improved applications and method elucidation.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalOne Ecosystem·DateJun 1, 2020

Making matter out of light: High-power laser simulations point the way

Researchers have successfully recreated the process of creating matter from light using high-power lasers. The new method produces electron-positron pairs, mimicking conditions during the first minutes of the universe and providing an improved model for studying antimatter.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJun 1, 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.

Cancer cells cause inflammation to protect themselves from viruses

Researchers found that cancer cells activate an inflammatory response when in contact with fibroblasts, making it harder for viruses to infect them. By blocking this signaling pathway, oncolytic viruses can more effectively target cancer cells, offering a potential treatment option.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJun 1, 2020

Cost-effectiveness of sexual assault kits

A machine learning-based analysis of San Francisco Police Department DNA samples found that selective sampling increases DNA match yields by 45.4% while minimizing costs. Processing all samples in a kit doubles positive matches but is only slightly less efficient.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

Researchers identify key immune checkpoint protein that operates within T cells

A new study led by Ohio State University researchers has identified a protein within immune cells called PCBP1 that helps shape optimal immune responses to cancer. Higher PCBP1 activity promotes cytotoxic T-cell functions, while lower levels trigger the expression of factors that suppress cancer immune responses.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 1, 2020

CeMM study reveals how a master regulator of gene transcription operates

Researchers discovered that the Mediator complex selectively safeguards a small set of cell-type-specific genes, which form densely connected regulatory circuits. This finding suggests that Mediator is not generally required for all gene transcription and instead plays a crucial role in directing cell-type-specific functions.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 1, 2020

New test method can offer safer dosages of hydroxychloroquine

Researchers at Uppsala University developed a new test method to measure hydroxychloroquine levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The analysis method, based on high-resolution mass spectrometry, reveals significant individual variations in medication metabolism.

SourceUppsala University·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateJun 1, 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.

The Lancet: Most comprehensive study to date provides evidence on optimal physical distancing, face masks, and eye protection to prevent spread of COVID-19

A comprehensive review of 172 studies found that physical distancing of at least 1 meter reduces COVID-19 transmission risk, while face coverings and eye protection may provide additional benefits. However, no intervention offers complete protection, emphasizing the need for combined measures.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 1, 2020

Global drivers of temperature tolerance in plants

Cold tolerance is more variable than heat tolerance across plant species and regions, reflecting evolutionary and geographical histories. Temperate plants are particularly vulnerable to climate change.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 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.

Land-based vertebrates on brink of extinction

More than 500 terrestrial vertebrate species are on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining. Human activities in tropical and subtropical regions have driven the collapse of regional biodiversity, threatening numerous species.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

NASA catches short-lived Tropical Storm Amanda

Tropical Storm Amanda formed on May 31 over the eastern Pacific Ocean, near Guatemala's coast. The storm quickly moved inland and weakened due to mountainous terrain, dissipating by May 31. Its remnants are expected to generate heavy rainfall over Central America and southern Mexico.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 1, 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.

The consequences of exploiting the ocean depths

The mesopelagic zone, or Twilight Zone, holds the largest and least exploited fish reserves in the oceans, crucial for global carbon cycle and sustainability. Climate change and growing population demand threaten this ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalNature·DateJun 1, 2020

Estrogen's role in the sex differences of alcohol abuse

Research suggests fluctuating estrogen levels make alcohol more rewarding to female mice, potentially increasing susceptibility to alcohol use disorders. Activating estrogen receptors increases dopamine release and binge drinking behavior in female mice.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJun 1, 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.

Study pinpoints top sources of empty calories for children and teens

A new study has identified the top sources of empty calories in children and teens, with soft drinks, cookies, and pizza emerging as major contributors. The research suggests that more than 25% of the calories consumed by children and adolescents come from added sugars and solid fats.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Loggerhead sea turtles host diverse community of miniature organisms

Researchers found that loggerhead sea turtles harbor thousands of microscopic organisms, including nematodes, on their shells. The study adds at least 111 new species to the list, revealing a complex relationship between turtle migration patterns and microbial communities.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalDiversity·DateJun 1, 2020

With CPRIT funding, UTA cancer researcher establishes new lab

Piya Ghose, an assistant professor of biology at UTA, has established a new lab with $2 million in CPRIT funding. Her research focuses on programmed cell death, which can lead to cancer through tumor creation. Ghose's work aims to understand how tumors behave throughout the body and could lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 1, 2020

Extreme precipitation and anthropogenic climate change

Research shows a significant increase in annual maximum one-day precipitation in North America, with anthropogenic forcing detected across the continent and smaller regions. The study suggests that human-induced warming has contributed to intensifying extreme precipitation events.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 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.

Scientists discover new forms of feldspars

Researchers discovered new variants of feldspar stable under extreme pressure conditions, potentially altering seismologic signatures and plate dynamics. The high-pressure polymorphs were formed through severe geometrical distortions in the tetrahedral framework.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 2020

Sea snail, human insulin hybrid could lead to better diabetes treatments

Researchers created a mini-insulin molecule that combines human insulin's potency with the fast-acting potential of cone snail venom, potentially improving blood sugar control. The hybrid insulin has the same potency as human insulin but acts faster, making it a prime candidate for new diabetes treatments.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 1, 2020

Hot stars are plagued by giant magnetic spots, ESO data shows

Extreme horizontal branch stars, with four to five times hotter than the Sun, show giant magnetic spots that cause regular brightness variations. These spots are also linked to superflare events, explosions of energy several million times more energetic than similar eruptions on the Sun.

SourceESO·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJun 1, 2020

Smart textiles made possible by flexible transmission lines

Researchers developed flexible sensor technology to detect fabric deformation, opening doors for smart textiles in clothing, hospital beds and robots. The technology measures time between sent and received signals to determine deformation location, type and intensity.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Electronics·DateJun 1, 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.

Universal virus detection platform to expedite viral diagnosis?

Researchers at KAIST developed a universal virus detection platform using reactive polymer-grafted double-stranded RNAs, which can detect viruses without prior knowledge of their genomic sequences. This platform provides enhanced sensitivity and can be used to quickly differentiate infected populations from non-infected ones.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateJun 1, 2020

Human lifelong immunity depends on APRIL

Researchers found APRIL protein essential for plasmacyte development and immunoglobulin production in humans. A deficiency in APRIL leads to reduced plasmacyte numbers and increased susceptibility to infections.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 1, 2020

Killing coronavirus with handheld ultraviolet light device may be feasible

A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a handheld ultraviolet light device that can effectively disinfect areas by killing the novel coronavirus. The device uses high-performance UV LEDs emitting a high intensity of UV light, which is currently limited by transparent electrode materials.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Physics Communications·DateJun 1, 2020

Mice are shrinking, but are climate change and cities to blame?

Researchers analyzed 70 years of records on North American deer mouse population trends, finding a general decrease in mass over time, despite expected links to climate and urbanization. Urban areas showed shorter mice with similar body mass, hinting at complex relationships between environmental factors and mammalian adaptation.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 1, 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.

AI stock trading experiment beats market in simulation

Researchers developed a novel AI-managed trading strategy that outperforms traditional methods, achieving greater gains and fewer losses. The proposed system utilizes convolutional neural networks to analyze layered images of current and past market data, leading to more accurate predictions and reduced randomness.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJun 1, 2020

Dieting? Studies weigh in on opportunities and risks

Research highlights the importance of balancing healthy eating with nutrient-dense diets to avoid deficiencies. A new study also links weight loss diets to a higher risk of orthorexia nervosa, while another study suggests that gut microbes may play a role in predicting weight loss success.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Clever computing puts millions into charities' hands

A new model called Swiftaid has been developed to automate the process of claiming Gift Aid on donations, allowing charities to claim up to £2.50 for every £10 donated. This system uses formal methods to improve design and security, streamlining the process and unlocking millions in extra funding.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalFormal Aspects of Computing·DateJun 1, 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.

Asteroids Bennu and Ryugu may have formed directly from collision in space

Scientists propose that asteroids Bennu and Ryugu were formed directly as spinning-top shapes due to a collision, with their equatorial craters ruling out recent re-shaping. The team's computer simulations suggest two possible explanations for the different hydration levels of the two bodies.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 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.

Playing video games linked with unhealthy behaviors for college men

A new study suggests that college men who play video games are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as poor eating habits and reduced physical activity. The research found that gamers consumed more saturated fat and sodium, while engaging in less fruit and vegetable consumption.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Kirigami grips could help seniors keep their footing

Researchers at Harvard and MIT have developed pop-up shoe grips inspired by snake skin that increase friction between the shoe and ground. These assistive grips could significantly reduce the risk of falls among older adults and improve the mobility of all-terrain robots.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 1, 2020

Latest climate models show more intense droughts to come

New climate model projections indicate that droughts will become longer and more frequent globally, particularly in regions like the Amazon, Mediterranean, and southern Africa. The study's findings suggest that variability in rainfall is a key factor in predicting future drought intensity.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 1, 2020

Snowball Earth and Great Oxidation Event

Researchers determined that the Great Oxidation Event occurred within a time interval spanning the Paleoproterozoic Era's two sedimentary formations. The study suggests the GOE predated global glaciation, contrary to previous assumptions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 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.

Eating whole grains could help lower diabetes risk

A large analysis of over 200,000 people found that high-quality carbohydrates like whole grains are associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Researchers also discovered that replacing low-quality carbohydrates with saturated fats is linked to a reduced risk of developing the condition.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020