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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 495


Page 495 of 512

Deep learning enables real-time imaging around corners

Researchers developed a new laser-based system that can image around corners in real time, enabling applications such as detecting hazards or pedestrians in self-driving cars. The system uses deep learning to reconstruct hidden objects at high resolutions and speeds.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJan 16, 2020

How cells assemble their skeleton

Scientists from Heidelberg University discovered the formation of spiral-shaped microtubules using state-of-the-art cryo-EM. The study reveals how the gamma-tubulin ring complex serves as a structural template for microtubule assembly, enabling quick regulation of division and cell growth.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature·DateJan 15, 2020

Alcohol tax reform needed

La Trobe University researchers found introducing a minimum unit price of $1.30 per standard drink in Australia could dramatically reduce alcohol consumption. This policy, already proven successful in Canada and Eastern Europe, could see a 10.7% fall in overall consumption and a 14.2% reduction among harmful drinkers.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalAddiction·DateJan 15, 2020

Blue light can help heal mild traumatic brain injury

Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered that early morning blue light exposure therapy can aid in the healing process of people impacted by mild traumatic brain injuries. The study found that improved sleep quality led to improvements in cognitive function, reduced daytime sleepiness, and actual brain repair.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·DateJan 15, 2020

Imprinted color patterns

Chinese researchers create an azopolymer that allows light-induced nanoimprinting at room temperature, overcoming heat-dependent issues in traditional photolithography. The technique enables the creation of structurally colored surfaces and has potential applications in nanofabrication and electronics industry.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 15, 2020

Predicting the year in chemistry

The American Chemical Society forecasts a year marked by environmental improvements, such as reducing plastic use and recycling. Regulatory actions are also expected, including updated chemical risk assessments and classification of PFAS as hazardous materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 15, 2020

B-cell enrichment predictive of immunotherapy response in melanoma, sarcoma and kidney cancer

Researchers found that B-cell markers were associated with improved overall survival in patients with advanced melanoma and soft-tissue sarcomas. B cells located within specialized immune-cell clusters (TLS) were predictive of response to checkpoint blockade, suggesting a dynamic interaction between immune components.

Pathogenic Alzheimer's disease cascade is activated by faulty norepinephrine signaling

Scientists discovered a key mechanism underlying Alzheimer's pathology, revealing how amyloid-beta oligomers hijack norepinephrine signaling to activate GSK3-beta and hyper-phosphorylate tau protein. This rewiring of the alpha-2A adrenergic receptor may explain the failure of previous clinical trials targeting amyloid protein buildup.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 15, 2020

It's 2020: Time to teach teens 'safe' sexting

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire suggest teaching youth 'safe' sexting practices to prevent long-term consequences. They provide 10 specific, actionable messages to share with adolescents to exercise wisdom and discretion when sharing explicit images.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 15, 2020

Competing crabs don't fight over 'homes'

Two hermit crab species, Coenobita rugosus and C. perlatus, coexist on the same beaches by selecting differently shaped shells as their homes. The study found that C. rugosus prefers short, spherical shells, while C. perlatus prefers elongated shells with a narrow opening.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateJan 15, 2020

Dresden biologists make living sperm glow

Researchers used a label-free technique to investigate the metabolism of living biological tissues in fruit flies. They found that sperm had a highly glycolytic metabolism similar to that of cancer cells, which may contribute to their ability to remain fresh in female bodies. The study also suggests potential clinical applications for ...

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 15, 2020

Astronomers reveal interstellar thread of one of life's building blocks

Researchers have traced the journey of phosphorus from star-forming regions to comets, revealing where molecules containing the element form and how it's carried in comets. This discovery provides crucial insights into the origin-of-life puzzle, suggesting that phosphorus monoxide played a key role in starting life on Earth.

SourceESO·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 15, 2020

Immigration and transition: Emerging trends in spina bifida care

As demographics change, spina bifida patients' needs are evolving, highlighting the need for research on quality of life and social determinants. The article discusses emerging trends in spina bifida care and the importance of addressing health disparities among minority populations.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·DateJan 15, 2020

Spinning quantum dots

Physicists Sanjay Prabhakar and Roderick Melnik modelled the interplay between electric fields and electron spins in slowly moving quantum dots. They revealed that spin-orbit coupling occurs, inducing a magnetic field in the absence of an external one.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJan 15, 2020