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Science News Archive August 2020 - Page 18


Page 18 of 45

Lipid-Oligonucleotides (LONs) --- Promising materials for bioapplications

LONs have shown outstanding properties in designing membrane-anchored biosensors and synthetic membrane channels due to their information-transfer and self-assembly abilities. They also have great potential in making contributions to developing new therapies and controllable nanoreactors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateAug 20, 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.

Study focuses on low-carb, high-fat diet effect on older populations

A new study published in Nutrition and Metabolism found that an eight-week very low-carbohydrate diet improved body composition, fat distribution, and metabolic health in older adults with obesity. The diet also preserved skeletal muscle mass without intentional caloric restriction.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNutrition & Metabolism·DateAug 20, 2020

A new tool to create chemical complexity from fatty acids

A new modular iridium catalyst allows unprecedented control over fatty acid derivative modification, enabling the production of valuable compounds from renewable resources. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for pharmaceuticals and plastics synthesis.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience·DateAug 20, 2020

Researchers show children are silent spreaders of virus that causes COVID-19

A comprehensive pediatric study shows children can carry high levels of the virus and spread infection, contradicting previous assumptions. The study's findings have implications for reopening schools and daycare centers, highlighting the need for increased precautions to keep kids, teachers, and staff safe.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateAug 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.

A quantum thermometer to measure the coldest temperatures in the universe

Researchers developed a novel thermometer based on quantum entanglement that can accurately measure ultra-cold temperatures in clouds of atoms, known as Fermi gases. The new method uses a probe atom to infer temperature by exploiting the unique properties of fermions at extremely low temperatures.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 20, 2020

Vaccine developed for human herpesvirus 6B (HHV-6B)

A new vaccine candidate has been developed for HHV-6B, a virus that causes exanthem subitum in infants. The vaccine targets the gH/gL/gQ1/gQ2 complex and induces strong immunity against the virus. Animal experiments have shown that the vaccine prevents HHV-6B infection and activates dendritic cells to induce innate immunity.

SourceKobe University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 20, 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.

Dynamic kirigami shoe grip designed to reduce risks of slips and falls

A new kirigami-based shoe sole has been designed to reduce the risks of slips and falls by adjusting as a person steps, increasing friction with pop-up spikes as necessary. The study found that the new grip could achieve a greater friction than standard winter boots by two- to three-fold.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 20, 2020

No more playing with fire: Study offers insight into 'safer' rechargeable batteries

Scientists at Okayama University developed a new technique to analyze dendrite formation in rechargeable batteries, improving safety. They discovered that quasimetallic Li clusters act as a buffer for dendrite formation in hard carbon electrodes, providing valuable insight into overcoming lithium dendrite formation limitations.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateAug 19, 2020

High blood pressure and salt, anti-aging factor Klotho key

Researchers discovered that Klotho protein deficiency causes aging-associated hypertension through high salt intake, with supplementation preventing hypertension development. Klotho levels may serve as a predictive marker for hypertension risk.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 19, 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.

Termite-fishing chimpanzees provide clues to the evolution of technology

Researchers studied 25 immature chimpanzees learning to use tools, discovering they acquire complex termite-extracting skills over time. The study provides insights into how technology evolved in human culture and highlights the sophistication of Central African chimpanzee tool-using skills.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateAug 19, 2020

Unconventional monetary policy and bank risk taking

Researchers examine the impact of unconventional monetary policy on bank risk-taking in the syndicated loan market, finding no additional interest rate reduction for riskier firms. This suggests that loose lending is not a concern under unconventional monetary policy measures.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of International Money and Finance·DateAug 19, 2020

Invasive shrubs in Northeast forests grow leaves earlier and keep them longer

A region-wide study by Penn State researchers confirms that invasive shrubs have an advantage over native shrubs, contributing to their proliferation. The study found that invasive shrubs maintain leaves for 77 days longer than native shrubs, giving them a competitive edge in acquiring energy and creating shade.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiological Invasions·DateAug 19, 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.

Liquid sulfur changes shape and goes critic under pressure

Scientists at ESRF discover new type of critical point in liquid sulfur, allowing for better understanding of liquid-to-liquid transitions and their applications. This breakthrough could open doors to studying the complexity of other important systems like water.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalNature·DateAug 19, 2020

Migration and dispersal of butterflies have contrasting effect on flight morphology

A recent study by Vaishali Bhaumik and Dr Krushnamegh Kunte reveals contrasting effects of migration and dispersal on flight morphology in butterflies. Female butterfly populations that disperse over short distances have a higher egg load, but this declines rapidly as their thorax size increases, enabling stronger flight muscles.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 19, 2020

Young gay men's health care needs not being met

A Rutgers study found that young gay men who experience healthcare discrimination or have providers lacking in knowledge about gay men's health issues are more likely to miss out on screenings and care. Creating safe spaces for disclosure can build trust and improve access to relevant services.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Gay & Lesbian Social Services·DateAug 19, 2020

UAlberta researchers find way to speed up nerve regrowth for trauma patients

Researchers at the University of Alberta have found a way to accelerate nerve regrowth in trauma patients by three to five times, leading to better outcomes. The treatment, known as conditioning electrical stimulation (CES), involves electrically stimulating nerves before surgery, causing them to regenerate faster.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateAug 19, 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.

Vagabonding female butterflies weigh in on reproductive strategies

A new study reveals that female Emigrant butterflies selectively burden themselves with eggs during long-distance flights, whereas males travel light. This disparity stems from differences in predictability of habitat patches and larval host plants between migrating and dispersing species.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 19, 2020

New Nottingham Space projects to boost global sustainable development

The University of Nottingham is launching two new projects using satellite Earth Observation technology to tackle global development problems. The first project aims to develop an anti-trafficking system to support efforts in Uganda, while the second project focuses on monitoring sargassum seaweed affecting Mexico's Caribbean Coast.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateAug 19, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New database could help lead to personalized treatments for breast cancer patients

A new database of 40 breast cancer cell lines will help speed the development of new gene-targeted therapies by providing genomic and proteomic information. Researchers aim to identify functional genes that drive cancer growth and develop targeted therapies based on unique gene changes in each patient's cancer.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·Journalnpj Breast Cancer·DateAug 19, 2020

New clues to a 500-year old mystery about the human heart

Researchers have found that the shape and structure of muscle fibres in the heart impact its performance and risk of heart failure. The study, published in Nature, reveals how these 'trabeculae' work and develop, and their importance to human health.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 19, 2020

First immune-evading cells created to treat type 1 diabetes

Salk Institute scientists develop transplantable human insulin-producing pancreatic cell clusters that evade the immune system, providing sustained blood glucose control without immunosuppressants. The cells were created using stem cell technology and a protein called WNT4 to induce a genetic switch that makes them functional.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 19, 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.

Targeting a chronic pain gateway could bring relief

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science identify key molecule regulating biomolecular messaging in nerve cells, which plays a role in chronic pain. Targeting this molecule, importin alpha-3, could provide new options for treating chronic pain with fewer side effects.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateAug 19, 2020

Virtual IOF-ESCEO World Congress draws record attendance

The virtual WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2020 Congress featured over 210 live and pre-recorded sessions on new clinical research and advances in osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and related diseases. The Congress attracted a record number of registrants and was accredited by the EACCME with 16 European CME credits.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateAug 19, 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.

$4 million grant funds project seeking truth about honesty

The Honesty Project will investigate the science of honesty, examining what predicts honesty in various situations and how it affects relationships and institutions. Researchers aim to develop ways to foster honesty in daily life, despite the consequences of dishonesty being often met with resignation.

SourceWake Forest University·DateAug 19, 2020

Hydrogen economy with mass production of high-purity hydrogen from ammonia

Researchers at KIST developed a low-cost membrane material and catalyst to decompose ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen, producing high-purity hydrogen. The new technology enables continuous production of pure hydrogen with reduced energy consumption and cost.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateAug 19, 2020

Is risk of Alzheimer's linked to specific sleep patterns?

Researchers analyzed genetic studies and found no causal link between sleep patterns and Alzheimer's disease. However, they discovered a small association between certain sleep characteristics and increased or decreased risk of developing Alzheimer's, including being a 'morning person' and having lower insomnia risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 19, 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.

Alaska's salmon are getting smaller, affecting people and ecosystems

A comprehensive study of four salmon species in Alaska found that they are returning to rivers smaller and younger than in the past. This decline affects both commercial and subsistence fisheries, as well as the nutrient delivery to inland areas, fertilizing forests and freshwater ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2020

Hypoxia in hospitalized COVID-19 patients may be treatable

Researchers found that COVID-19 patients with hypoxia responded positively to icatibant treatment, with improved oxygen levels and reduced need for supplemental oxygen. A follow-up study is underway to explore the effectiveness of a new drug, lanadelumab, which may offer longer-lasting benefits.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 19, 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.

Two UTA faculty members honored with UT System awards

UT Arlington faculty members Stephanie Rasmussen and Ericka Robinson-Freeman received the UT System Board of Regents Outstanding Teaching Award for their dedication to student success. The two professors were recognized for innovative course development, classroom expertise, and student learning outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 19, 2020

Pumice arrives delivering "vitamin boost" to the reef

Researchers have discovered that pumice rafts are delivering a surge of new coral and reef-building organisms to the Great Barrier Reef, boosting its health. The rafts, formed when frothy magma cools rapidly, carry a diverse array of marine life across thousands of kilometers.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateAug 19, 2020

New study identifies better treatment option for common complication of dialysis

A new study has identified a better treatment option for arteriovenous fistulas used in hemodialysis, reducing the need for repeated hospital visits and procedures. The drug-coated balloon angioplasty treatment has shown promising results, with patients being 25% more likely to have a functioning access point after 6 months.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 19, 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.

Protein influences regeneration of vascular cells

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered a protein that influences cell communication in vascular cells. The study found that an RNA-binding protein acts as a gatekeeper, controlling the release of microRNAs that promote regeneration. This breakthrough offers new hope for treating diseases like arteriosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·DateAug 19, 2020

Deep learning will help future Mars rovers go farther, faster, and do more science

The NASA JPL team is using deep learning to develop software for future Mars rovers, which will enable them to travel farther and explore more of the planet. The team has been training machine learning models on the Maverick2 supercomputer and developing novel capabilities such as Drive-By Science and Energy-Optimal Autonomous Navigation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalPlanetary and Space Science·DateAug 19, 2020

Can a healthy diet reduce risk of Parkinson's?

A new study suggests that following an alternate Mediterranean or Alternative Healthy Eating Index diet pattern may be linked to fewer non-motor symptoms such as constipation, daytime sleepiness and depression. The researchers found a strong relationship between healthy diet adherence and reduced risk of these preceding symptoms.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 19, 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.

A touch of gold sends crystals electric with excitement

Physicists at the University of Warwick demonstrate that applying a noble metal to a crystal's surface can excite its structure, enabling new electrical effects such as converting movement and heat into electricity. This technique has great potential for use in sensors, energy conversion, and mobile technologies.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateAug 19, 2020