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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 6


Page 6 of 512

Nobel Prize reflects perseverance in scientific research

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to researchers who discovered the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The discovery was made possible by the perseverance and determination of thousands of scientists worldwide. Their work has paved the way for future research into HCV and potential cures.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViral Immunology·DateDec 21, 2020

Study examines attitudes toward non-native birds

A new study from Cornell University examines public attitudes towards non-native birds and whether people are willing to manage them to protect native cavity-nesting birds. Researchers found that citizen-science project participants were more likely to have negative views of non-native species and undertake management practices.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateDec 21, 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.

Development of plaques in Alzheimer's disease resolved

A team of researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam have determined the development stages of Aβ fibrils, which form the basis of Alzheimer's disease plaques. The study provides new insights into the formation of oligomers, potentially harmful structures that contribute to the toxic effect of Aβ.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateDec 21, 2020

Doctors should change the way that they ask patients about self-harm and suicide

Researchers recommend that GPs adopt a more open questioning style when discussing self-harm and suicide with patients, acknowledging the possibility of a positive response. This can help alleviate stigma and encourage patients to disclose their thoughts, ultimately leading to better mental health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateDec 21, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Citizens versus the internet: Confronting digital challenges with cognitive tools

A team of researchers recommends using psychological and cognitive sciences to develop interventions that empower users to control their digital environments. Cognitive tools such as "boosts" can enhance people's agency in online discourse and improve reasoning against manipulation.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateDec 21, 2020

Despite same treatment, obese women face more risks for postpartum hemorrhage complications

A USF Health-Tampa General Hospital study found that obese women experience worse outcomes after postpartum hemorrhage, even with the same medical treatment. The researchers suggest that certain groups of high-risk obstetric patients, such as obese women, may need additional support or a different treatment protocol.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology·DateDec 21, 2020

'Race norming' blamed for denying payouts to ex-NFL players with dementia

A UCSF clinical psychologist has taken aim at the NFL for using race norms to deny payouts to Black players diagnosed with dementia. She advocates for a more nuanced approach that accounts for social determinants of brain health, such as language and occupation, to provide fair compensation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateDec 21, 2020

Reston ebolavirus spreads efficiently in pigs

A study published in PNAS found that RESTV infects pigs and causes severe respiratory disease, shedding the virus from their upper respiratory tract. The researchers also identified RESTV sequences in pigs in China, highlighting the potential for widespread transmission.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateDec 21, 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.

Experiments first verify distributed quantum phase estimation

Researchers at USTC achieve experimental verification of distribution quantum phase estimation, surpassing classical limits in metrology. They demonstrate enhanced sensitivity in measuring multiple parameters simultaneously with high precision.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 21, 2020

ACP,Annals of Internal Medicinehost virtual COVID-19 Vaccine Forum II for physicians

The American College of Physicians (ACP) hosted a virtual COVID-19 Vaccine Forum II to address barriers to optimal vaccine uptake. Panelists emphasized the need for comprehensive public health communications campaigns to refute misinformation and build trust among disproportionately affected minority communities.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 21, 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.

Device refines analysis of materials for fuel cells and batteries

Researchers developed a novel spectroelectrochemical cell to study electrolyte behavior, improve fuel cell performance, and analyze catalyst efficiency. The device can perform in situ infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption/diffraction analysis.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemElectroChem·DateDec 21, 2020

How to be happier in 2021

Research suggests that goals involving helping others are more satisfying and lead to increased happiness. Acts of benevolence increase positive mood and energy, while narrow self-focused concerns can lead to decreased happiness. Experts recommend focusing on contributing to the world for a happier life.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 21, 2020

Speeding toward improved hydrogen fuel production

Researchers have designed an effective material for speeding up the extraction of hydrogen from alcohols, using earth-abundant metals instead of precious ones. The catalyst, made from tiny clusters of nickel metal, accelerates the reaction efficiently and cleanly.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 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.

Exposure to metals can impact pregnancy

A Rutgers University study found that exposure to metals like nickel, arsenic, and lead can disrupt a woman's hormones during pregnancy. This disruption may contribute to children's later health risks and disease outcomes.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironment International·DateDec 21, 2020

Brain stem cells divide over months

Researchers have discovered that brain stem cells in the hippocampus of mice can divide repeatedly over several months, leading to new insights into the formation of nerve cells. This finding has significant implications for future therapeutic approaches to conditions such as depression and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 21, 2020

Researchers invent method to 'sketch' quantum devices with focused electrons

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a technique to create quantum devices by 'sketching' patterns of electrons into programmable materials. This approach enables the creation of active nanostructured gates directly below two-dimensional materials like graphene, with feature sizes comparable to electron spacing.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 21, 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.

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.

Diseased cell fragments burst from pockets in immune cells to activate response

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute discovered that dendritic cells present proteins from dead cells to T-cells by bursting phagosomes, a process involving receptor DNGR-1. This mechanism is fundamental to the immune system and could lead to new ways to exploit natural defenses against infection and cancer.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 21, 2020

Invasive in the U.S., lifesaver Down Under

A new study published in Ecology has discovered that monitor lizards are ecosystem engineers, creating complex burrow systems used by various animal communities. These systems provide critical shelter and resources, but their destruction due to invasive species like the cane toad threatens ecosystem balance.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalEcology·DateDec 21, 2020

What if clean air benefits during COVID-19 shutdown continued post-pandemic?

A new study by Columbia University Mailman School researchers simulates the potential future health and economic benefits from sustained air quality improvements. They estimate cumulative benefits of clean air during a five-year period would amount to thousands of avoided cases of illness and death, as well as associated economic benef...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateDec 21, 2020

The N-PATH has been funded by the European Commission

The N-PATH project will train 40 young European nephrologists from 6 countries through a two-year educational path with hands-on training and online lessons. The course is funded by the European Commission and will provide innovative advanced training in interventional nephrology.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·DateDec 21, 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.

New energy conversion layer for biosolar cells

A team of scientists developed a semi-artificial electrode that converts light energy into other forms of energy in biosolar cells. The system uses the photosynthesis protein Photosystem I from cyanobacteria to couple with an enzyme that produces hydrogen.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 21, 2020

Brazilian researcher experiments with electron-plasma interactions

A Brazilian researcher conducted an experimental study of electron-plasma interactions, simulating plasma conditions in a vacuum using short electromagnetic waves. The study found that electrons transfer energy to the wave and then receive energy from it, with non-linear effects occurring at high electric current values.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateDec 21, 2020

Water and genes flow between the two largest Baltic salmon rivers

A study by the University of Helsinki and colleagues found that salmon from the Tornio and Kalix Rivers in Finland and Sweden have distinct migration patterns and ages, but no clear genetic differences. The research highlights the need for cross-border cooperation to conserve the largest wild Baltic salmon stocks.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalConservation Genetics·DateDec 21, 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.

Remote monitoring leads to 4x decline in returns to hospital after joint surgery

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that remote monitoring using wearable step counters and conversational text messaging reduced hospital returns after joint surgery by 4x. The 'Hovering' program improved patient recovery and activity levels, with significant declines in hospital readmissions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 21, 2020

Preventing nurse suicides as new study finds shift in method

A new study published in the journal Nursing Forum found a distinct shift in the method of nurse suicides, with firearm use increasing among female nurses between 2014 and 2017. The study suggests that removing firearms from homes and providing increased social support may help prevent such deaths.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNursing Forum·DateDec 21, 2020

Breathing rate predicts therapeutic benefits for heart patients

Researchers at TUM found that nocturnal respiratory rates can help predict the success of ICD treatment in heart patients, with a 31.3% survival advantage observed in those with lower breathing rates. The study demonstrates the predictive value of breathing frequency for therapeutic efficacy.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateDec 21, 2020

New engine capability accelerates advanced vehicle research

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have accelerated a research engine that provides an unprecedented view inside the atomic-level workings of combustion engines in real time. The engine, built to run on a neutron beam line, allows investigation of structural changes in new alloys designed for high-temperature, advanced combus...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020

Biotech cotton key to eliminating devastating pest from US and Mexico

A collaborative effort involving genetically engineered cotton and mass releases of sterile pink bollworm moths has successfully eliminated the invasive pest from cotton-producing areas of the US and Mexico. This strategy saved U.S. cotton growers $192 million from 2014 to 2019.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 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.

Satellites can reveal risk of forced labor in the world's fishing fleet

A new model uses satellite data, machine learning, and human rights expertise to identify vessels at high risk of engaging in forced labor. Up to 26% of the global fishing fleet was found to be at high risk, with an estimated 100,000 individuals working on these vessels.

SourceGlobal Fishing Watch·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020

SwRI-led team finds meteoric evidence for a previously unknown asteroid

A research team led by Dr. Vicky Hamilton has identified a potentially new meteorite parent asteroid through analysis of the Almahata Sitta meteorite. The study suggests that the parent body was an asteroid roughly the size of Ceres, formed in the presence of water under intermediate temperatures and pressures.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 21, 2020

Silkworm's brain determines diapause by thermal information

Researchers at Shinshu University discovered that silkworms use thermal information to determine when to lay dormant eggs. The neuropeptide corazonin plays a key role in regulating this process, and its release is controlled by GABA neurotransmission.

SourceShinshu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020

UArizona researcher wins $1 million NSF C-Accel Grant

The University of Arizona team led by Zheshen Zhang is creating a prototype of an entangled sensor array to improve navigation, health care, and communication technologies. The project aims to develop affordable, compact optomechanical sensors for vehicle navigation and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateDec 21, 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.

The Achilles' heel of cancer stem cells

Researchers discovered that the cancer stem cells' ability to form tumors is regulated by a molecular switch called Mll1. Blocking this enzyme can specifically target cancer stem cells, offering hope for more effective treatments. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the use of Mll1 inhibitors in head and neck tumors.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2020

Digging deep for differences in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A recent study published in PNAS catalogues gene activity in skeletal muscle of mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) compared to healthy animals. The researchers found marked differences in gene expression, including increased activation of genes involved in cell death and degradation of muscle tissue.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020

Virtual kidney transplant evaluation allows patients to be evaluated from home

A virtual telehealth platform allows patients to undergo comprehensive evaluation for kidney transplantation from the comfort of their own homes. This innovative approach has enabled the Medical University of South Carolina's transplant program to maintain access to life-saving surgeries despite pandemic restrictions, with over 282 pat...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 21, 2020

Pacify the protein and win over a disease

Researchers find that inhibiting pro-IL-1α helps modulate NLRP3 inflammasome activation, reducing damage to mitochondria and alleviating inflammation. This discovery offers potential therapeutic applications for treating various diseases, including atherosclerosis, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020

TRIUMF's CANREB facility marks first beam

Triumphs in achieving first beam delivery for ARIEL's CANREB facility, enhancing TRIUMF's nuclear physics program and global leadership in isotope production. The milestone ushers in a new era of scientific advancements and real-world impact for Canadians and the world.

SourceTRIUMF·DateDec 21, 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.

Scientists uncover mechanisms that wire the brain's cerebral cortex

A research team led by Michael Fox has identified the type of interneuron that produces collagen 19, a protein essential for healthy synapse formation and inhibitory circuit development in the brain. This discovery provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying healthy brain development.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateDec 21, 2020

New 3D maps reveal inner workings of immune cell gene expression

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology created 3D maps of how enhancer sequences and genes interact in several types of immune cells. The new study opens the door to understanding individual risk for diseases from asthma to cancer.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 21, 2020

California lockdown suppressed excess pandemic deaths

Researchers found that while lockdowns lowered excess deaths for many Californians, they had little impact on Latino residents and those without a high school degree. These groups faced increased risk due to crowded living conditions and essential work, leading to higher excess death rates during the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 21, 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.

Light signal emitted during photosynthesis used to quickly screen crops

Researchers have developed a method to quickly screen crops by analyzing the light signal emitted during photosynthesis, known as Solar Induced Fluorescence (SIF). This signal provides critical insights into photosynthesis, which could lead to improving crop yields and feeding humanity.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateDec 21, 2020