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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 5


Page 5 of 512

Frozen: Cutting-edge technology reveals structures within cells

Researchers have developed a new method to visualize protein complexes in their natural environment, revealing the structure of the Arp2/3 complex and its role in cell motility. The study provides insights into the regulation and activity of this important protein complex, which could lead to better understanding of disease mechanisms.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 22, 2020

Pregnant women in third trimester unlikely to pass SARS-CoV-2 infection to newborns

A recent study suggests that pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the third trimester are unlikely to pass the virus to their newborns. The study found low levels of protective antibodies in umbilical cord blood, indicating limited transfer of maternal antibodies through the placenta.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 22, 2020

Surgery may offer survival advantage in certain metastatic breast cancers

Researchers found that surgery in addition to treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy increased the length of survival for stage four breast cancer patients. The study, published in Annals of Surgical Oncology, suggests that knowing a cancer's biological subtype can help determine effective treatment plans.

SourcePenn State·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·DateDec 22, 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.

Visible hydrogels for rapid hemorrhage control and monitoring

Researchers have created a new composite hydrogel with tantalum particles that can effectively seal off damaged blood vessels, providing rapid and stable bleeding control. The gel exhibits shear-thinning capabilities, allowing for easy deployment using standard catheters.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 22, 2020

ECDC releases COVID-19 vaccination rollout strategies for EU/EEA

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has released four COVID-19 vaccination strategies for EU/EEA countries, developed using mathematical modeling to inform prioritization. The strategies prioritize groups at high risk of severe disease and death, highlighting the importance of vaccination of healthcare workers.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·DateDec 22, 2020

Increased meat consumption associated with symptoms of childhood asthma

A study published in Thorax found that higher intake of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) from non-seafood meats is associated with increased wheezing in children. Researchers examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found a significant link between AGE intake and respiratory symptoms.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThorax·DateDec 22, 2020

Scientists discover mutations associated with early onset dementia

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin identify genetic mutations linked to ultra-rare condition ALSP, revealing that dysfunctional white blood cells drive brain damage and BBB breakdown. The study's findings may pave the way for targeted therapies for other forms of dementia.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateDec 22, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wi-Fi technology with fiber optic-like performance for Industry 4.0

Researchers have created a millimeter-band signal propagation model that can predict wireless signal behavior in industrial environments. The study demonstrates the potential of Wi-Fi technology to replace cabled connections in manufacturing processes, enabling faster and more reliable data transfer.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications·DateDec 22, 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.

One in four women with ADHD has attempted suicide

A recent Canadian study revealed that women with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are eight times more likely to have attempted suicide compared to their male counterparts. The study also found that adults with ADHD who experienced childhood parental violence had triple the odds of attempting suicide.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalArchives of Suicide Research·DateDec 22, 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.

COVID-19 pandemic has shown the need to share precious intensive care bed resources across Europe

A majority of European anaesthesiologists and intensive care specialists believe that precious ICU capacity should be shared between nations during international emergencies. The study found that around 60% were in favour of a centralized European institution to distribute such resources.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·JournalEuropean Journal of Anaesthesiology·DateDec 22, 2020

Diversity, severity of autism symptoms linked to mutation locations

A study at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that specific functional units within genes, called exons, can impact autism severity. The researchers analyzed genetic and clinical data from over 2,500 people with autism and discovered that children with truncating mutations in the same exon often exhibit similar symptoms.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 22, 2020

Gates Foundation helps UC study sexual health of South African youth

Researchers found that rural girls in South Africa rely on peer, parental, and environmental factors to prevent pregnancy and HIV/AIDS, rather than modern contraceptive methods. The study highlights the need for more comprehensive education on sexual health beyond HIV/AIDS prevention.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 22, 2020

How the American child welfare system lost its way

The US child welfare system has become bogged down in unnecessary investigations and child removals, disproportionately targeting poor African American families. Most reports of neglect are actually about manifestations of poverty, and removing children from their families undermines the ability to focus on providing services.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateDec 22, 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.

How a large protein complex assembles in a cell

ETH Zurich researchers use a novel method called KARMA to analyze protein complex assembly, revealing a hierarchical principle and durable scaffold. The technique allows for the reconstruction of precise assembly sequences, opening up new avenues for studying biological processes.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell·DateDec 22, 2020

Chemists describe a new form of ice

Researchers from the US, China, and Russia have discovered a novel hydrogen hydrate that forms at room temperature and low pressure. The new form of ice has three water molecules per hydrogen molecule, showing promise for cost-effective hydrogen storage solutions.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 22, 2020

Cornell University to extract energy from manure to meet peak heating demands

Cornell University is developing a system to convert cattle manure into methane and other products to meet peak heating demands. The proposed system produces approximately 909 million liters of renewable natural gas per year, providing 97% of the campus's annual peak heating demand.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateDec 22, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Ancient DNA sheds light on the peopling of the Mariana Islands

Researchers found that present-day Mariana Islanders' ancestry is linked to the Philippines, suggesting an Island Southeast Asia origin for the first settlers. The study also suggests a close link between Guam skeletons and early Lapita individuals from Vanuatu and Tonga.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2020

Record-setting thermoelectric figure of merit achieved for metal oxides

Scientists at Hokkaido University have achieved a record-setting thermoelectric figure of merit for metal oxides, which can be used to enhance thermoelectric power generation. The material exhibits a high ZT value and stability across a range of operating temperatures.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateDec 22, 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.

Reliable anti-counterfeit checks under extreme conditions

Researchers from NUS have invented a new method of anti-counterfeiting called DeepKey, using 2D-material tags and AI-enabled authentication software. The technology works faster, achieves highly accurate results, and uses durable identification tags that can withstand extreme temperatures and environmental conditions.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalMatter·DateDec 22, 2020

Mapping out a transient atom

A new experiment provides insights into transient atomic states, enabling better understanding of photocatalysis, elementary steps in photosynthesis and radiation damage. The study uses high-resolution electron spectroscopy to capture a snapshot of the short-lived state produced when X-rays interact with neon atoms.

SourceEuropean XFEL·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 22, 2020

NTU Singapore scientists invent glue activated by magnetic field

Researchers have created a new adhesive that can be cured using a magnetic field, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods. The 'magnetocuring' glue has the potential to revolutionize industries such as sports equipment, automotive and electronics manufacturing.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateDec 22, 2020

Review on functional hydrogel coatings

Functional hydrogel coatings have various functions, including sensing, actuation, drug delivery, and conductivity for neural electrodes. Research directions include optimizing coating methods for mass production, long-term stability, and testing adhesion.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 22, 2020

Results of NIH-sponsored ACTIV-3 trial published

The ACTIV-3 trial, sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), tested LY-CoV555 against placebo in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The trial found that LY-CoV555 did not provide clinical benefit compared to placebo.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 22, 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.

Study finds patients with kidney failure are ready and willing to use mobile health

A survey of adults with kidney failure reveals that most own mobile devices and have intermediate or advanced mobile health proficiency. The main reasons for using mobile health include making appointments, communicating with healthcare personnel, and obtaining laboratory results.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 22, 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.

Liquid bandage detects tissue oxygenation without the drawbacks of wired oximeters

A new liquid bandage sensor measures the amount of oxygen reaching transplanted tissue, a crucial measure of its viability, and detected tissue oxygenation as well as the gold standard of an oximeter. The technology eliminates restrictions on patient movements and provides a major advancement over existing methods.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 22, 2020

Artificial intelligence predicts gestational diabetes in Chinese women

A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism uses machine learning to predict gestational diabetes in Chinese women. The researchers analyzed nearly 17,000 electronic health records and found that low body mass was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 22, 2020

Light flips genetic switch in bacteria inside transparent worms

Researchers at Rice University developed an optogenetic control system to turn on and off genes in gut bacteria, extending the lifespan of transparent worms by up to 50% by regulating mitochondrial function. The study suggests that gut bacteria directly impact health and disease, and that controlling metabolite production with precisio...

SourceRice University·DateDec 22, 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.

Voluntary or compulsory? New evidence on motivation for anti-COVID-19 policies

A study by the University of Konstanz found that voluntary motivation to comply with anti-COVID-19 policies is relatively high in Germany, but can be crowded out by enforcement. Measures like limiting contacts and vaccinations showed higher agreement when implemented voluntarily, while wearing masks and travel restrictions had the same...

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2020

Perspective: Why opioids cannot fix chronic pain

Chronic pain and emotional pain are intertwined, with opioids making things worse in the long term. Researchers recommend tapering down or switching to buprenorphine for high-dose long-term opioid users without improvement in pain and function.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateDec 22, 2020

Newly discovered receptor helps to sneak a peek at evolution

A newly discovered receptor in Arabidopsis thaliana has helped scientists understand the evolution of the GET pathway, a mechanism that enables membrane protein transport. The receptor's discovery provides crucial insights into the evolution of this pathway across organisms.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 22, 2020

Scientists pinpoint molecular cause for severe disorder in children

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have identified the molecular defects associated with LIC Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes mortality in young children. The study found that small mutations in the NSMCE3 gene affect the Smc5/6 complex's ability to compact DNA, leading to severe defects in DNA repair.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 22, 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.

Three flavors are better than one -- in ice cream and supernova research

New research from Northwestern University has found that including all three flavors of neutrinos in a study provides deeper knowledge of dying stars and unravels existing hypotheses. The study reveals that ignoring any flavor can lead to incomplete results, emphasizing the importance of complexity in models.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 21, 2020

Regulating off-centering distortion maximizes photoluminescence in halide perovskites

Researchers at HPSTAR have discovered a universal relationship between regulating off-centering distortion and maximizing photoluminescence in halide perovskites. By applying high pressure, they achieved optimal PL performance, ten-fold enhancement, and new paths to high-performance optoelectronic materials.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 21, 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.

Ancient wolf pup mummy uncovered in Yukon permafrost

A remarkably preserved 57,000-year-old wolf pup named Zhùr has been uncovered in the Yukon, offering a unique window into the lives of ancient wolves. The mummy's genome analysis revealed that she was descended from wolves from Russia and Siberia, and her diet consisted mainly of aquatic resources like salmon.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 21, 2020

Study published on the well-being of small business workers during COVID-19

A recent study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus found that employees in small businesses with strong health and safety climates reported better well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research team distributed a COVID-specific survey to 491 employees from 30 small businesses across Colorado, revealing a positi...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateDec 21, 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.