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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 91


Page 91 of 512

Single brain region links depression and anxiety, heart disease, and treatment sensitivity

A new study suggests that targeting a single brain region called the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC) could lead to better outcomes for people with depression and anxiety. Over-activity in sgACC underlies several key symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders, but an antidepressant only successfully treats some of the symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 26, 2020

Drug-resistant hospital bacteria persist even after deep cleaning

A study published in Nature Microbiology reveals that drug-resistant E. faecium can spread within hospitals despite deep cleaning, with high rates of infection found in vulnerable patient groups. The bacteria's ability to evade cleaning measures poses a significant challenge to infection control.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 26, 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.

Phytoplasma effector proteins devastate host plants through molecular mimicry

A team of biologists discovered that phytoplasma effector proteins interact with specific molecules in plant hosts, causing developmental abnormalities and devastating changes. The research found that the effector proteins adopt a structure similar to their target host molecules, allowing them to bind and cause harm.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateOct 26, 2020

A heart-breast cancer-on-a-chip monitoring system

A collaborative team developed an organs-on-a-chip system to monitor heart toxicity from breast cancer drugs. The dual-organ system closely mimics bodily tissues and provides evidence that the interplay between the heart and breast cancer tissues influences cell function and disease progression.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalSmall·DateOct 26, 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.

Massive deep-water methane emission

A massive methane release occurred in a deep ocean natural gas reservoir during the Pliocene, potentially affecting atmospheric concentrations. The study estimates that up to 27 teragrams of methane could have reached the atmosphere over 8 months, equivalent to 10% of current global annual emissions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020

New genes related to autism spectrum disorder

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have identified new genes in the BEX/TCEAL cluster that are related to autism spectrum disorder and other neurological diseases. The study used animal models to describe molecular mechanisms involved in the development of the neocortex in humans and other placental mammals.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalGenome Biology·DateOct 26, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sensorimotor brain regions and action-specific activity

Research using functional MRI found that brain networks involved in movement planning and execution are activated differently based on the type of movement performed, even when using different body parts. The study suggests that these brain functions emerge from innate constraints in early development.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020

UT Arlington electrical engineering professor named fellow of the Optical Society

Weidong Zhou, a UT Arlington electrical engineering professor, has been named a fellow of the Optical Society (OSA) for his significant contributions to photonic crystal membrane lasers and hybrid nanomembrane optoelectronics. His research involves developing on-chip systems for healthcare applications and efficient, scalable lasers fo...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateOct 26, 2020

Coronavirus volunteers: Greater satisfaction thanks to online platforms

A study by the University of Basel found that online platforms have a positive impact on volunteer mobilization, willingness, and satisfaction. Volunteers who were more afraid of catching the virus experienced higher satisfaction through boosts in self-confidence. The findings suggest that online platforms can channel oversupply and re...

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly·DateOct 26, 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.

New insights into a potential target for autoimmune disease

A study led by George Hajishengallis found that targeting the DEL-1 molecule could be an effective way to treat inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. The researchers discovered that DEL-1 promotes the generation and immunosuppressive activity of regulatory T cells, which are crucial in maintaining health.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 26, 2020

Light on efficiency loss in organic solar cells

Organic solar cell efficiencies are limited by electron affinity and ionization energy offsets. Researchers discovered that Förster resonance energy transfer competes with electron transfer, hindering charge separation. The team plans to design new materials with enhanced charge generation and reduced energy losses.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 26, 2020

Discovery of new cell may be key to treating incurable neurological diseases

Researchers at Ohio State and the University of Michigan discovered a new type of immune cell that rescues damaged nerve cells from death and partially reverses nerve fiber damage. The unique cell subset promotes nervous system repair and has been identified in human immune cells with similar characteristics.

SourceMediaSource·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 26, 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.

Researchers present findings on role of google search early in COVID-19 pandemic

A study by George Washington University researchers analyzed Google Trends data to assess public perception of COVID-19 exposure and disease prevalence. The team found that specific queries related to testing and diagnosis were associated with higher SVI values in states with the highest COVID-19 cases.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateOct 26, 2020

Most dentists have experienced aggression from patients

A new study by NYU College of Dentistry found that half of US dentists experienced verbal or reputational aggression in the past year, while nearly a quarter endured physical aggression. The rates of patient aggression toward dentists are high and comparable with those reported in other health care settings.

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateOct 26, 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.

Inks containing lead were likely used as drier on ancient Egyptian papyri

Researchers found previously unknown lead compounds in ancient Egyptian red and black inks, suggesting they were used as a drying agent. The discovery challenges previous understanding of ancient lead-based pigments and may indicate widespread use of similar techniques earlier than thought.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Humanities·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 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.

SwRI study offers more complete view of massive asteroid Psyche

The study provides new insights into the asteroid's composition, suggesting it may be a dense, metallic object made of iron and nickel. The findings also indicate that oxidation is occurring on the surface, which could be a result of solar wind interaction.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateOct 26, 2020

DNA sleuths target ivory poachers

A new DNA test developed by Flinders University can accurately determine the legal status of seized ivory samples, even in highly degraded state. The technique has shown 100% identification accuracy and correct assignment in the legal status of 227 highly degraded ivories.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Legal Medicine·DateOct 26, 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.

Shifts in flowering phases of plants due to reduced insect density

Researchers found that reduced insect density influences plant composition and development, with dominant plant species becoming more prevalent. This can lead to mismatches between plant and animal species, causing adverse consequences for the ecosystem.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateOct 26, 2020

Scientists establish NanDeSyn Database to support international cooperation on industrial microalgae

The NanDeSyn Database collects and integrates functional genomics data for industrial microalgae, including genome sequences, gene annotations, and transcriptomes. This will facilitate research cooperation among the global Nannochloropsis community to develop the microalgae as a chassis for photosynthetic production of oils.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateOct 26, 2020

Aged cell variations may control health and onset of age-related diseases

The study identifies four distinct states of cellular senescence, each characterized by changes in metabolic and epigenomic processes. These states are linked to different levels of inflammation and metabolism, offering new insights into the aging process and potential ways to promote healthy longevity.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·DateOct 26, 2020

The uncertain future of the oceans

New study shows ocean acidification influences carbon content of sinking particles, affecting biological pump. The results, published in Nature Climate Change, indicate highly variable responses to CO2, with bacterial and animal plankton playing a key role.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 26, 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.

Rural health care, logging, and carbon conservation

A study in rural Borneo found that healthcare exchange programs reduced deforestation by 70%, preserving forest carbon stores. Clinic access was high but highest in districts with logging agreements, highlighting community engagement as key to success.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020

Hydrogen sulfide helps maintain your drive to breathe

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that hydrogen sulfide is essential for maintaining normal breathing patterns in mammals. The production of hydrogen sulfide allows brain regions responsible for controlling breathing to function normally.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 26, 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.

Timeline of early eukaryotic evolution unveiled

Researchers reconstructed evolutionary events based on genetic changes, finding complex cellular machinery evolved before mitochondrial symbiosis. The study suggests cell complexity increased before acquiring mitochondria, challenging current understanding of eukaryogenesis.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateOct 26, 2020

Accessible healthcare could be key to solving climate crisis

A new study by Stanford researchers finds that deforestation in an Indonesian national park declined 70% after an affordable health clinic opened, preserving carbon sinks and reversing poverty. The clinic's success demonstrates a holistic approach to addressing human health and environmental conservation.

SourceStanford University·DateOct 26, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

How bats excel as viral reservoirs

Researchers found that bats lack AIM-2 receptors, which could reduce inflammation and allow viral reservoirs. In vitro experiments showed partial restoration of inflammasome signaling when human AIM-2 genes were introduced into bat cells.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020

Concrete structure's lifespan extended by a carbon textile

A new method using noncombustible carbon textile grid and cement mortar doubles load-bearing capacities of structurally deficient concrete structures, increasing their usable lifespan threefold. Construction costs are reduced by 40% compared to existing methods.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalMaterials·DateOct 26, 2020

Healthcare as a climate solution

A new analysis reveals that improving healthcare in rural Indonesia reduced incentives for illegal logging, resulting in a 70% decline in deforestation and over $65 million worth of avoided carbon emissions. The innovative clinic model provides a blueprint for preserving biodiversity while reducing poverty and illness.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 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.

Haunted house researchers investigate the mystery of playing with fear

A study published in Psychological Science reveals that enjoying a fearful experience, like a haunted house, requires finding the perfect balance of fear and enjoyment. The researchers found an inverted U-shape trend showing that too little or too much fear can decrease enjoyment, while just-right fear levels maximize it.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 26, 2020

High fat or 'ketogenic' diets could prevent, reverse heart failure

A study published in Nature Metabolism found that high fat and low carbohydrate diets can completely prevent or even reverse heart failure caused by a metabolic process. The research team discovered that providing a high-fat, low carbohydrate diet can improve cardiac fat metabolism and prevent or reverse cardiac dysfunction.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalNature Metabolism·DateOct 26, 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.

Solar hydrogen: let's consider the stability of photoelectrodes

Researchers have conducted the first operando stability study of high-purity BiVO4 photoanodes during photoelectrochemical oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Using in-situ plasma mass spectrometry, they determined a useful parameter called the stability number (S), which can be used to compare and assess the stability of photoelectrodes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateOct 26, 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.