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Science News Archive April 2020 - Page 16


Page 16 of 37

New macrolactone database could aid drug discovery, research

Researchers have created a free-to-use database of 14,000 known macrolactones to aid in drug discovery and research. The MacrolactoneDB contains information on molecular characteristics, chemical diversity, and biological activities of these molecules.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 21, 2020

Coffee changes our sense of taste

A study published in Foods found that coffee makes people more sensitive to sweetness and less sensitive to bitterness. The researchers suggest that the bitter compounds in coffee may be responsible for this effect. This discovery could have implications for our understanding of how we regulate sugar consumption.

SourceAarhus University·JournalFoods·DateApr 21, 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.

What helps couples weather financial storms

Research by Ashley LeBaron found that couples who prioritize relationship maintenance behaviors during financial stress tend to have stronger relationships. These behaviors include respecting each other, being present, and showing love and affection. Receiving support from family and friends also plays a crucial role.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateApr 21, 2020

High-performance electrolyte solves battery puzzle

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new electrolyte that forms a protective layer on silicon anodes, stabilizing their structure and preventing degradation. This breakthrough enables the use of micro-sized alloy anodes, significantly enhancing energy density and paving the way for high-energy batteries.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 21, 2020

How the blob came back

A new study found that weakened wind patterns and a thinner ocean mixed layer fueled the record-breaking 2019 marine heat wave, dubbed Blob 2.0, which damaged marine ecosystems and hurt coastal fisheries.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 21, 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.

New study shows sharp decrease of intimate partner violence in Nicaragua

A new study found a significant decrease in intimate partner violence in Nicaragua over a 20-year period, with women's advocacy groups credited for the change. The percentage of women experiencing physical violence decreased from 55% to 28%, and emotional violence from 71% to 43%.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateApr 21, 2020

ASU scientists lead study of galaxy's 'water worlds'

A team of international researchers has provided a mineralogy lab study for water-rich exoplanets, revealing an unexpected new solid phase with silicon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The findings suggest that the distinction between water and rock layers in these planets may be 'fuzzy' at high pressure and temperature.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 21, 2020

Antibodies could provide new treatment for OCD

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a link between a specific immune system protein and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Treating mice with an antibody that neutralised the protein reduced anxiety levels, suggesting a potential new treatment for human patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateApr 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.

Science and sustainability in the 21st century

A retrospective on the global environmental movement highlights the need for scientific collaboration with society to influence public policy. Scientists must engage across fields to drive societal transitions toward environmental sustainability.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Police force and procedural justice training

A training program initiated by the Chicago Police Department reduced mandatory use-of-force reports and civilian interactions with force by 10% and 6.4%, respectively. The study suggests that proper training can lead to changes in policing styles.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Almost half of all postpartum psychosis are isolated cases

Researchers found that forty percent of women who suffer from postpartum psychosis do not become ill again. Women with isolated postpartum psychosis may not require medicinal treatment outside the postpartum period, according to a new study published in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateApr 20, 2020

Early exposure to cannabis boosts young brains' sensitivity to cocaine, rodent study finds

A Columbia-led study found that early exposure to cannabis makes young brains more sensitive to cocaine, shedding light on the neurobiology of drug use in adolescence. The research revealed key molecular and epigenetic changes in adolescent rats' brains after synthetic psychoactive cannabinoids were followed by cocaine.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Cochrane Review confirms effectiveness of MMR vaccines

A Cochrane Review confirms the effectiveness of MMR vaccines in preventing infectious diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella. The review found that one dose of vaccine was 95% effective in preventing measles and 89% effective in preventing rubella, with no association between the vaccines and autism or other conditions.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateApr 20, 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.

Lung injury in COVID-19 is not high altitude pulmonary edema

Researchers warn against treating COVID-19 lung injury like high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), citing differences in underlying mechanisms and necessary treatments. Long-term supportive care, including mechanical ventilation, may be needed to overcome underlying inflammation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHigh Altitude Medicine & Biology·DateApr 20, 2020

Asteroid collision in neighboring star system

Researchers report a catastrophic collision between two large asteroids in the Fomalhaut system, producing a large dust cloud that gradually dispersed over time. The observations suggest rare collisions of this magnitude are expected to be rare in dynamically quiescent systems.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Green chemistry approaches to the synthesis of coumarin derivatives

The synthesis of coumarin derivatives can be performed using various green chemistry methods, including ultrasound, microwaves, and solvent-free synthesis. These methods reduce the utilization and generation of toxic organic substances, while also enhancing product yields and purity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organic Chemistry·DateApr 20, 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.

Optimizing a new spraying method for ceramic coatings

Researchers from Universität Bayreuth have developed a novel spraying method, Powder Aerosol Deposition (PAD), which enables the production of dense ceramic films at normal room temperatures. The resulting coatings exhibit excellent mechanical properties, including high hardness and chemical resistance.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 20, 2020

Neolithic genomes from modern-day Switzerland indicate parallel ancient societies

Researchers analyzed 96 ancient genomes to understand the arrival and demographic structure of peoples with Steppe-related ancestry into late Neolithic, early Bronze Age Switzerland. Genetic analysis suggests a complex process involving gradual mixture of parallel, highly genetically structured societies.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2020

Exoplanet apparently disappears in latest Hubble observations

Astronomers analyze archival Hubble data to reveal possible explanation for Fomalhaut b's disappearance: a massive dust cloud produced in a collision between two large bodies orbiting the nearby star Fomalhaut. The team suggests this event may have occurred only every 200,000 years.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Unprecedented single-cell studies in virtual embryo

Scientists have developed a 'virtual embryo' model of the sea squirt Phallusia mammillata, providing unprecedented insights into early embryonic development. The study describes the gene expression and morphology of every single cell in the embryo, revealing coordinated regulation and reproducible patterns.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 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.

What's old is new again

A new strategy to overcome drug resistance in leukemia uses targeted doses of doxorubicin, inhibiting molecular pathways that promote tumor growth and resistance. Low-dose doxorubicin also stimulates the immune system, clearing the way for cancer-targeting immune cells to act.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 20, 2020

Physicists develop approach to increase performance of solar energy

Researchers have developed an innovative approach to enhance the performance of solar cells, which could lead to a significant increase in efficiency and revolutionize photovoltaics. The new method, published in Nature Energy, demonstrates potential for ultra-high-efficiency single-junction semiconductor devices.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 20, 2020

Study finds male-female cardiac repair differences in heart failure survival post-MI

A University of South Florida-led mouse cardiac healing study reveals faster heart repair and improved survival in female mice compared to males after a heart attack. The research suggests that sex-specific therapies may be more effective in managing heart failure, with potential applications for delayed or prevented cardiac inflammation.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2020

Brain activity signature of chronic pain

A study of 40 people with subacute back pain found that those at risk of developing chronic back pain have smaller volumes in the nucleus accumbens, a key brain structure. The loss of low-frequency fluctuations in this region can accurately classify chronic low back pain patients across different laboratories.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 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.

Aquaculture at the crossroads of global warming and antimicrobial resistance

Researchers found that global warming promotes the development of pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture, leading to increased disease rates and antibiotic use. The study highlights the urgent need for alternative treatments and encourages research using One Health or EcoHealth approaches to address antimicrobial resistance.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2020

How reptiles adapted to marine life

Researchers analyzed 18 extinct reptile species and 14 modern relatives, finding similarities in the vestibular system of open-ocean swimmers, including cetaceans. The study suggests that distinct evolutionary routes resulted in similar adaptations for different types of terrestrial animals transitioning to marine environments.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Stabilizing brain-computer interfaces

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a machine learning algorithm that accounts for neural recording instabilities, allowing users to continue controlling brain-computer interfaces despite signal variations. The approach stabilizes neural activity, maintaining good BCI performance in the presence of recording instab...

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 20, 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.

Often and little, or rarely and to the full?

Scientists have discovered that more energy can be stored by charging less frequently, but right up to 100%. The study found that dividing the storage system into compartments increases energy storage. This discovery may revolutionize electric car battery technology and lead to significant increases in capacity.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 20, 2020

University of Kentucky's Superfund Research Center receives $8.7 million

The University of Kentucky's Superfund Research Center has received a five-year, $8.7 million grant to conduct research on chlorinated organic compounds and their impact on human health and the environment. The center will investigate strategies to reduce risks posed by environmental contaminants in vulnerable communities.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateApr 20, 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.

Mind over body: The search for stronger brain-computer interfaces

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University have developed a brain-computer interface technology that can readjust itself in real-time to ensure smooth operation. The system uses electrodes smaller than a hair to record neural activity, allowing users to control devices with greater precision and accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 20, 2020

Can high-power microwaves reduce the launch cost of space-bound rockets?

A study published in the Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets has helped solve efficiency issues with using high-powered microwaves to supplement chemical fuel for rocket launches. The researchers calculated the efficiencies of various components, finding that variable-focus transmission shows promise for future research.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Spacecraft and Rockets·DateApr 20, 2020

Engineering honor For Lashanda Korley

LaShanda Korley, a renowned materials scientist at the University of Delaware, has been elected as a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering. Her work focuses on developing bio-inspired materials with applications in healthcare, sensing, and soft robotics.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 20, 2020

New 'brick' for nanotechnology: Graphene Nanomesh

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have successfully fabricated suspended graphene nanomesh with controlled nanopores. The graphene nanomesh exhibits increased thermal activation energy, enabling new methods for bandgap engineering and potential applications in gas sensing and phonon engineering.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalMicromachines·DateApr 20, 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.

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.

Promiscuity in the Paleozoic: Researchers uncover clues about vertebrate evolution

Scientists used chromosomes to study early events in vertebrate evolution, including the hybridization between two species of primitive fish. They found evidence of genome duplication and identified 17 ancient chromosomal units that were shared among jawed vertebrates.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 20, 2020

Why relying on new technology won't save the planet

Researchers argue that relying on new technologies to address climate change is delaying action, enabling a cycle of 'prevarication' and inadequate policies. The study maps five phases of climate targets, highlighting how technological promises have downplayed urgency and undermined societal commitment.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 20, 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.

Mental health preparedness among older youth in foster care

A study by New York University researchers found that nearly half of 17-year-old foster youth use counseling services and almost a third take medications for mental health issues. However, many report feeling unprepared to manage their mental health, highlighting the need for targeted support interventions.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 20, 2020

Infant temperament and outcomes in adulthood

A 25-year study found that infants with high behavioral inhibition exhibited introverted adulthood and lower social interactions. Infants with high infant BI also showed heightened brain activity in response to errors during adolescence, associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Genetics of recessive inherited autism spectrum disorder

Research implicates ACTL6B gene absence in six families with recessive autism. Altered transcriptional repression and neural circuitry defects suggest conserved function and potential for autism research.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

One-third of primary care physicians do not support the use of medications for treating opioid use disorders

A survey of primary care physicians found that one-third did not support the use of medications to treat opioid use disorder (OUD), despite conclusive evidence. The researchers urge policy changes to increase the acceptance of and willingness to prescribe medications for OUD among primary care physicians.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 20, 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.