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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 61


Page 61 of 512

Crossing international borders can be deadly for forced migrants

A study mapping forced migrant deaths reveals 12 spatial-temporal clusters, often near national borders or conflict zones. Deaths at sea top the list, accounting for over 5,800 fatalities, while U.S.-Mexico border crossings are also deadly, with over 1,400 deaths.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateNov 16, 2020

Gender norms and health disparities

Researchers found chronic inflammation in patrilineal communities was double that of men, while hypertension rates were reversed between matrilineal and patrilineal societies. Limiting women's autonomy and resources increased the risk of chronic diseases, according to the study.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

From the inside out - how the brain forms sensory memories

A new study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft scientists has identified a region of the thalamus as a key source of signals encoding past experiences in the neocortex. This discovery sheds light on how the brain forms sensory memories, which are essential for perceiving our environment and interacting with it.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 15, 2020

A novel monoclonal antibody therapy cuts LDL cholesterol by half in a high-risk patient population,

A phase 2 study found that evinacumab reduced LDL cholesterol by 50% in patients with severe hypercholesterolemia resistant to standard treatments. The therapy works through a different mechanism than existing drugs and shows promise for treating refractory hypercholesterolemia.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 15, 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.

The right tune for blood

Researchers found that RNA from repetitive elements activates RIG-I-like receptors, inducing inflammation and increasing hematopoietic stem cell numbers. The RIG-I-like receptor family plays a crucial role in regulating hematopoiesis, with different members having opposing effects on developmental hematopoiesis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalImmunology·DateNov 15, 2020

Sensors get a laser shape up

A new method developed at KAUST uses laser beams to produce uniform, three-dimensional graphene electrodes with high porosity and surface area. The electrodes exhibit excellent electrocatalytic activity and distinguish paracetamol and other compounds. Researchers plan to optimize the fabrication of sensors and expand their applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateNov 15, 2020

Cannabis strength soars over past half century -- new study

Over the past 50 years, cannabis strength has soared, with THC concentrations increasing by 14% in herbal cannabis and 24% in cannabis resin. This rise in potency is linked to an increased risk of problems such as addiction and psychotic disorders.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAddiction·DateNov 15, 2020

Omega-3s did not reduce cardiac events in recent heart attack survivors

A daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids failed to reduce cardiac events, including secondary heart attacks and strokes, among elderly people who survived a recent heart attack. The OMEMI Trial found no significant difference in the rate of cardiac events between the two groups after 2 years of follow-up.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 15, 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.

Patients taking statins experience similar side effects from dummy pills

In a new study, patients taking statins reported experiencing symptoms that were identical to those experienced while taking placebo pills. Researchers suggest that the nocebo effect may be the cause of these side effects, rather than an actual pharmacological effect of the drug.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 15, 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.

Outcomes for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest during COVID-19 pandemic

The study analyzed large U.S. registry data to assess COVID-19's association with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes, including in areas with low and moderate disease. Results showed that the pandemic led to a significant increase in mortality rates among those experiencing cardiac arrests.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 14, 2020

Additional heart imaging valuable for women with unexplained heart attacks

Researchers found that additional imaging tests revealed hidden causes of heart damage and inflammation in 84% of women with MINOCA, a type of non-obstructive coronary artery disease. The study suggests that women are more likely to have this condition than men, and it has the potential to guide medical therapy for secondary prevention.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 14, 2020

Go (over) easy on the eggs: 'Egg-cess' consumption linked to diabetes

A longitudinal study found that consuming one or more eggs per day increases the risk of diabetes by 60%. Higher long-term egg consumption is also associated with an increased risk of diabetes, especially in women. The study's findings highlight the importance of a balanced diet in preventing type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateNov 14, 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.

Sleep apnea may be risk factor for COVID-19

A recent study published in the Sleep Medicine and Disorders International Journal suggests that sleep apnea may be a risk factor for severe COVID-19. The research, conducted at Turku University Hospital, found that 29% of patients admitted to hospital care had already been diagnosed with sleep apnea.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalSleep Medicine and Disorders International Journal·DateNov 13, 2020

Two anti-inflammatory compounds shown to be capable of accelerating recovery from COVID-19

Researchers at University of São Paulo and University of Pennsylvania conducted clinical trials on monoclonal antibody eculizumab and experimental drug AMY-101, showing promising results in accelerating recovery from severe COVID-19. The studies found that inhibiting the complement system reduced inflammation and improved lung function.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalClinical Immunology·DateNov 13, 2020

Study: Respiratory failure in COVID-19 usually not driven by cytokine storm

A new study finds that most hospitalized COVID-19 patients do not have a 'cytokine storm', which was previously thought to be the cause of respiratory failure, but rather moderate inflammation. The researchers suggest that anti-inflammatory medications may benefit only a fraction of patients with severe disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 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.

Boosting returns on e-commerce retargeting campaigns

A new study finds that delivering e-commerce cart retargeting (ECR) ads too early can decrease purchase rates, while late ECR ads have a positive impact. The researchers recommend using price discounts or scarcity framing for early ECR and suggest deploying campaigns with a delay to minimize ad annoyance.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 13, 2020

The Popovich of floral nectar spurs

Researchers at Harvard University have identified a key gene POPOVICH responsible for floral nectar spur development, a crucial innovation in plant evolution. This discovery provides insight into the origin of this trait and its role in promoting biodiversity among flowering plants.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 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.

COVID-19 survival among elderly patients could be improved by arthritis drug

A new study published in Science Advances suggests that a type of arthritis drug called baricitinib can reduce the risk of dying from COVID-19 among elderly patients. The study found that patients who received the drug had a 71% reduced risk of death compared to those who did not receive it.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateNov 13, 2020

Be mindful: Study shows mindfulness might not work as you expect

A new study from the University at Buffalo found that mindfulness may not effectively manage stress as it's happening, contrary to popular culture assertions. While mindful participants reported positive experiences afterward, their cardiovascular responses didn't demonstrate the expected benefits of mindfulness.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateNov 13, 2020

Computer vision app allows easier monitoring of diabetes

A new computer vision app developed by University of Cambridge engineers allows easier monitoring of blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. The app uses a smartphone camera to read glucose meter data, eliminating the need for manual input or internet connectivity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateNov 13, 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.

Most type 2 diabetes patients are at high risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that nearly half of type 2 diabetes patients are at very high risk of fatal events within a decade. Lifestyle advice, including quitting smoking, healthy diet and regular exercise, is recommended to prevent cardiovascular disease.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateNov 13, 2020

Diabetes drug can treat and reverse heart failure and reduce hospitalizations

Empagliflozin improves heart function, reduces dilation and hypertrophy of the left ventricle, increasing ejection fraction. The medication also enhances exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with heart failure, leading to reduced hospitalization rates.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 13, 2020

Diet affects skin gene expression in both healthy and atopic dogs

Researchers found that dietary intervention increased skin gene expression manifold, with raw food activating the immune defense system and increasing antioxidant production. This study suggests that a raw diet may help activate the immune defense of dogs, potentially reducing the risk of atopic dermatitis.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateNov 13, 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.

Study: Vitamin D, fish oil don't lower atrial fibrillation risk

A large-scale trial involving over 25,000 participants found no significant difference in the development of atrial fibrillation between those taking vitamin D or fish oil supplements and a placebo. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight and controlling blood pressure may lower risk of atrial fibrillation.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·DateNov 13, 2020

How to ensure patients manage their chronic kidney disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease can proactively manage their health by receiving tailored guidance on diet and lifestyle. Effective communication with doctors and strong family support are also crucial in empowering patients to take a more active role in their care. This study highlights the importance of clearer information, bett...

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalBMJ Open·DateNov 13, 2020
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.

Most Medicare beneficiaries say they don't receive cognitive assessments

A new study found that only a quarter of Medicare beneficiaries receive structured cognitive assessments during annual wellness visits. The researchers suggest that variations in wellness visits and cognitive assessments between Medicare coverage types are not well understood, and more research is needed to validate the differences.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 13, 2020

Handles and holes in abstract spaces: how a material conducts electricity better

A new theory developed by scientists at SISSA has established a relationship between the presence of 'handles' in the space of atom and molecule arrangements and a material's electrical conductivity. The research found that materials equipped with handles, previously thought to be insulators, can conduct electricity like metals.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review X·DateNov 13, 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.

Worms reveal why melatonin promotes sleep

Researchers identified melatonin's role in promoting sleep by activating the BK channel in the brain, a process that limits neurotransmitter release. This finding has implications for understanding melatonin's effects and potential treatment of diseases related to the BK channel.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2020

Hydroxychloroquine does not help patients hospitalized with COVID-19: Study

A national study published in JAMA found that hydroxychloroquine did not improve clinical outcomes for adult patients hospitalized with respiratory illness related to COVID-19. The study, which enrolled 479 patients, showed no evidence that the drug prevented death or helped patients recover more quickly.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateNov 13, 2020

Benefits of high-dose blood thinners in COVID-19 patients remain unclear

A new study by George Washington University researchers found that high-dose anticoagulation may be ineffective and even harmful for patients with COVID-19. The study compared clinical outcomes between patients treated with standard low-dose blood thinners and those receiving higher doses, finding no additional benefit.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalThrombosis Research·DateNov 13, 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.

Here's why conservatives and liberals differ on COVID-19

A new study from Lehigh University's College of Business found that conservatives are more sensitive to threats with high agency, proposing free will as the primary driver of outcomes in life. To get greater buy-in on safety measures, policymakers should discuss the virus in terms that give it more agency.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateNov 13, 2020

New saliva-based antibody test for SARS-CoV-2 highly accurate in initial study

A new saliva-based antibody test developed by Johns Hopkins researchers accurately detects SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from small saliva samples. The test's high sensitivity and specificity make it suitable for various applications, including large-scale screening and monitoring changes in antibody-positivity rates over time.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateNov 13, 2020

Managing the microbiome raises new hope for autism

A study published in mSphere found that gut microbiota from healthy donors can improve symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through microbial transfer therapy (MTT). The research showed significant metabolic changes in plasma samples and modest alterations in fecal samples after the procedure.

SourceArizona State University·JournalmBio·DateNov 13, 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.

Researchers from CSIC identify the genetic program that allows us to see in 3D

A study published in Science Advances reveals a genetic program essential for 3D vision and motor coordination in mice. The discovery sheds light on the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway by Zic2, which is crucial for bilateralism and has implications for understanding pathologies such as spina bifida.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 2020

A cost-effective program to fight COVID-19 in resource-challenged countries

A multifaceted public health strategy combining contact tracing, community-based screening with isolation and quarantine centers can substantially reduce COVID-19 cases in low-and-middle-income countries. The study found that this approach could save lives even where budgets are constrained.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateNov 13, 2020

Cytokine storms play a limited role in moderate-to-severe COVID-19

A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Washington University found that most adults with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 have a suppressed viral immune response, unlike flu patients. Steroids like dexamethasone are only effective in a small subset of patients with life-threatening hyperinflammation.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 13, 2020