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Science News Archive August 2020 - Page 19


Page 19 of 45

NASA's Webb to study quasars and their host galaxies in three dimensions

The Q3D team will study three bright quasars to measure the activity that comes from accreting material onto supermassive black holes, revealing how it affects host galaxies. The study aims to understand the relationship between supermassive black holes and their host galaxies by analyzing gas motions in nearby and distant galaxies.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 19, 2020

Quick fixes won't stop sexual harassment in academia, experts say

Research experts warn that common forms of gender-based harassment, such as put-downs and insults, are prevalent in academia. Targets of these harassments often doubt themselves and withdraw from work due to the insidious nature of the behavior.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 19, 2020

Heating our climate damages our economies - study reveals greater costs than expected

A new study reveals that climate change can cause greater damages to economies than previously thought, with up to three times the estimated output losses of a 1°C hotter year. The research found significant economic losses of 10% globally and over 20% in tropical regions by 2100.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A new article by Dr. Ahmad Mourad explores how 'remote misses' in COVID-19 can create a false sense of invulnerability and security, potentially leading to increased risk. This phenomenon is linked to population-wide traumatic experiences and adaptive behavior.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 19, 2020

Controlling the electron spin: Flip it quickly but carefully

Researchers from Russia and Spain propose a new model that describes electron spin behavior in semiconductor nanowires, enabling quick spin flip with controlled electric fields. The findings suggest that optimal interval of control fields is necessary to avoid losing valuable information.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateAug 19, 2020

The secret of lymph: How lymph nodes help cancer cells spread

A new study reveals that melanoma cells that pass through lymph nodes pick up a protective coating, allowing them to survive high levels of oxidative stress in the blood. This coating, composed of oleic acid, protects cancer cells from ferroptosis and enables them to form distant tumors.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·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.

Toddlers who use touchscreens show attention differences

Research found toddlers with daily touchscreen use are faster to find targets during visual search, challenging concerns about negative impacts on development. High touchscreen users were quicker at finding red apples amongst varying numbers of blue apples.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateAug 19, 2020

Genetic background may affect adaptions to aging

A recent study found that genetic background affects adaptations to aging in same-sex aging twins. DNA methylation changes correlate strongly with aging and are partly heritable in late life. The research highlights the role of genetic regulation in biological aging rates, including immune-inflammatory pathways.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAging Cell·DateAug 19, 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.

High blood pressure during pregnancy may mean worse hot flashes during menopause

A study published in Menopause: The Journal of the North American Menopause Society found that women with a history of high blood pressure disorders during pregnancy reported more bothersome menopausal symptoms. Women using hormone therapy also experienced more severe symptoms compared to those without a high blood pressure history.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMenopause·DateAug 19, 2020

LSU Health New Orleans team creates better tool to aid COVID diagnosis

A new tool for diagnosing COVID-19 has been developed by LSU Health New Orleans, using 3D digital models created from CT scans of patients with severe respiratory symptoms. The tool allows clinicians to visualize the distribution of the virus in the lungs and may help identify false negatives in RT-PCR testing.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalBMJ Case Reports·DateAug 19, 2020

Telemedicine may well outlast the pandemic, say mental health care staff

New research from UCL and King's College London finds that telemedicine may not work for everyone, with major challenges to be addressed for its effective adoption. Mental health staff report concerns about reduced referrals, visits to services, and access to physical healthcare for people with mental health conditions.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateAug 19, 2020

Trust is key to effectiveness in virtual communities, researchers find

A team of researchers from Italy has proposed a new metric to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual groups. By analyzing interaction data from two Italian-based social networks, they found that trust plays a crucial role in forming cohesive and productive groups.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateAug 19, 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.

Understanding the inner workings of the human heart

A study published in Nature reveals the complex mesh of muscle fibers lining the heart impacts performance and heart failure. The research used AI to analyze 25,000 MRI scans, discovering six human DNA regions affecting fractal patterns in these fibers.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 19, 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.

Making the DNA melt curve more accurate

Scientists at NIST have found a way to significantly enhance the accuracy of key information on how heat affects the stability of folded DNA structures. The novel mathematical algorithm automatically accounts for unknown effects, allowing scientists to design durable and complex structures made from DNA.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical Biochemistry·DateAug 19, 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.

Older adults with existing depression show resilience during the pandemic

A study found that older adults with pre-existing major depressive disorder demonstrated resilience to the stress of physical distancing and isolation during the pandemic. They used coping strategies such as maintaining regular schedules, distracting themselves from negative emotions, and using mindfulness.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·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.

Partner selection ultimately happens in the woman's reproductive tract

Researchers found that women's reproductive secretions have a stronger effect on sperm performance in HLA dissimilar male-female combinations, indicating post-mating sexual selection. The study suggests that fertilization capability is dependent on immunogenetic compatibility between partners.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·DateAug 19, 2020

A Reverse Approach to Vessel Surgery May Boost Clinical Outcomes in Dialysis

A new surgical procedure called RADAR has been shown to create arteriovenous fistulae that mature more quickly, remain accessible longer, and are less likely to require reintervention. The study suggests this approach may improve clinical outcomes for patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 19, 2020

Microscopy approach poised to offer new insights into liver disease

Researchers developed a new microscopy technique to visualize NAFLD progression in real-time, capturing details of lipid accumulation and immune cell behavior. The approach provides a highly useful research tool for identifying key parameters contributing to the disease.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateAug 19, 2020

This cuttlefish is flamboyant on special occasions only!

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish's skin is usually camouflaged nearly all of the time, but it flashes a dazzling display only on specific occasions, such as during courtship rituals, fighting over females, or when threatened. This unique display allows them to signal aggression or attract mates.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·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.

World record: Plasma accelerator operates right around the clock

A team of researchers at DESY has achieved a record-breaking run time of 30 hours for a plasma accelerator, accelerating over 100,000 electron bunches per second. The milestone brings scientists closer to developing practical applications of this innovative technology, which holds promise for powerful and compact particle accelerators.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalPhysical Review X·DateAug 19, 2020

International project to delve into the mysteries of brain connections

Researchers are using multidisciplinary approaches, cutting-edge imaging technologies, and cyber resources to study synaptic weight and its effects on the brain. The team aims to determine what factors shape synaptic structures and function, shedding light on basic understanding of the brain.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateAug 19, 2020

Researchers find link between gut microbiome and cancer treatment outcomes

A study found that patients with metastatic kidney cancer who had a greater variety of gut microbes responded better to immunotherapy, and that eating a high-fiber diet may help improve treatment outcomes. The researchers suggest that modulating the gut microbiome during therapy could impact responses to therapy.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalEuropean Urology·DateAug 19, 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.

Researchers identify better classification system for adult idiopathic scoliosis

Researchers have designed a new X-ray classification system for adult idiopathic scoliosis, providing a more universal and standard assessment of the condition. The three-component method maintains existing curve types while introducing assessments of global alignment and lumbosacral curve, improving treatment options for older patients.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalSpine Deformity·DateAug 19, 2020

Microbial ecology yields new insights for future shipwreck conservation

Researchers at East Carolina University identify a highly diverse microbial community on a 1960s shipwreck, with iron-oxidizing bacteria contributing to biocorrosion. The study's findings highlight the need for tailored conservation efforts to address unique environmental factors and materials.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 19, 2020

Leading-edge technology unmasks protein linked to Parkinson's disease

Scientists at University of California San Diego have produced the first visualizations of LRRK2 inside its natural cellular environment and the first high-resolution blueprint of the protein. They discovered how LRRK2 binds to microtubules, acting as a roadblock for motors that move along these tracks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·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.

Bacteria can defuse dangerous chemical in Passaic River

A Rutgers study suggests that bacteria present in the Passaic River may be capable of dechlorinating 2,3,7,8-TeCDD, a toxic byproduct of combustion and chemical manufacturing. This process could potentially decrease the toxin's toxicity over time.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 19, 2020

Toward a coronavirus breathalyzer test

A prototype device has been developed to detect COVID-19 in exhaled breath, reducing the need for uncomfortable nasopharyngeal swabs. The sensor shows high accuracy in distinguishing COVID-19 cases from controls and lung infections, with potential applications for screening large populations.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 19, 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.

COVID-19 cytokine storms may prevent a durable immune response

Researchers found that COVID-19 patients often lack germinal centers, essential for a durable immune response, due to impaired helper T cell development. This can lead to short-lived immunity and increased risk of re-infection, complicating the development of herd immunity.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateAug 19, 2020

Top coma experts develop plan to improve patient outcomes

Leading coma experts have created a three-part plan to improve patient care and deepen understanding of coma and other conditions. The plan includes better classification of coma types, development of biomarkers to predict prognosis, and clinical trials for new therapies to promote recovery of consciousness.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNeurocritical Care·DateAug 19, 2020

Biomorphic batteries could provide 72x more energy for robots

Researchers have developed a new rechargeable zinc battery that integrates into the structure of a robot to provide much more energy. The battery uses a network of aramid nanofibers and a water-based polymer gel, making it environmentally friendly and efficient.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Robotics·DateAug 19, 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.

Ultrafast electrons in magnetic oxides: A new direction for spintronics?

An international team of researchers has observed how electronic charge excitation changes electron spin in metal oxides in an ultrafast and inphase manner. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new ultra-fast storage systems and information technologies.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2020

Is COVID-19 transmitted through breast milk? Study suggests not likely

Researchers from University of California San Diego School of Medicine and UCLA found that SARS-CoV-2 virus was unable to replicate in breast milk, making it unlikely a source of infection for infants. Breastfeeding remains recommended with proper hand hygiene and equipment sterilization.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA·DateAug 19, 2020

Medicaid expansion and outpatient surgical care

This observational study found that states participating in Medicaid expansion had higher rates of using common outpatient surgical procedures, including cataract surgery and hernia repair. The study suggests that increased access to healthcare may lead to more medical interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateAug 19, 2020

Food from the sea

Sustainably managing the ocean could increase food production by an outsize proportion relative to land-based food, nourishing the growing human population. Researchers estimate a roughly 16% increase in wild-caught seafood by 2050 if fisheries are sustainably managed.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateAug 19, 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.

Portrait of a virus

A new platform analyzing medical records of COVID-19 patients has provided intriguing clinical clues about the disease's presentation, evolution, and impact on different organ systems. The data from 96 hospitals in five countries has raised more questions than answers, but holds promise for rapid disease insights.

SourceHarvard Medical School·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateAug 19, 2020

COVID-19 patients who experience cytokine storms may make few memory B cells

Researchers found that COVID-19 patients who experience cytokine storms have a disrupted immune response, leading to the formation of few germinal centers and thus preventing durable immunity. Although some neutralizing antibodies are produced, they lack long-term memory, allowing for repeated infections with the same virus.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateAug 19, 2020

Biomedical research may miss key information by ignoring genetic ancestry

A new study analyzed skin color, genetic ancestry, and social attainment of 259 Black residents across four US cities, revealing geographic variations in ancestry and social attainment. The findings show that men with darker skin were more likely to be married, while women with lighter skin had better social status.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 19, 2020

Lungfish fins reveal how limbs evolved

A team of biologists has determined how limbs evolved from fins using embryos of the Australian lungfish. The study suggests that a primitive hand was present in lungfish fins but unique anatomy of limbs with digits only evolved during the rise of tetrapods through changes in embryonic development.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·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.