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Science News Archive August 2020 - Page 39


Page 39 of 45

NIH harnesses AI for COVID-19 diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring

The NIH Medical Imaging and Data Resource Center (MIDRC) is a collaborative effort to develop new AI-powered diagnostic tools for COVID-19. The center aims to accelerate the development of personalized therapies by analyzing medical images and clinical data, leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·DateAug 5, 2020

How microbes in 'starter cultures' make fermented sausage tasty

Researchers studied how microbes in fermented sausages influence fatty acid production, revealing differences between microbe combinations. The study found that specific bacteria alter the composition of fatty acids, contributing to desirable traits like antifungal activity and flavor profiles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 5, 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.

Herbivorous vertebrates may face most daunting extinction risk

A new study of over 44,000 species reveals herbivores have consistently faced the highest threat of extinction in modern times, past decades, and the late Pleistocene era. The research also shows that ocean predators are facing greater existential pressures than their land-dwelling counterparts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 2020

Move over Akita: Introducing 'Kuma mutant' mice for islet transplantation research

Researchers develop a new mouse model of permanent neonatal diabetes using the Kuma mutation, which exhibits severe insulin-deficiency and beta-cell dysfunction in an immune deficient background. The study successfully reverses hyperglycemia with insulin implants, making it suitable for islet transplantation research.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 5, 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.

Scientists discover novel drug target for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have discovered a novel drug target, PPP1R1B, that stops the spread of pancreatic cancer in mice. Increased levels of this protein have been found in tumor samples from people with metastatic pancreatic cancer, suggesting it has therapeutic potential.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 5, 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes

A recent analysis found that adults with rheumatoid arthritis had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to other individuals. The study, published in Arthritis Care & Research, used a US commercial insurance database and included over 449,000 people.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateAug 5, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Plate tectonics goes global

Researchers discovered evidence of ancient subduction in China and six other continents, revealing that plate tectonics went global 2 billion years ago. This finding provides the first global evidence for the operation of plate tectonics at this age.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of Mathematical Sciences Advances and Applications·DateAug 5, 2020

NIH-Moderna investigational COVID-19 vaccine shows promise in mouse studies

The investigational vaccine induced neutralizing antibodies in mice, providing protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, mice challenged with the virus after a single dose showed protection against viral replication in the lung, indicating potential efficacy in humans.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

HPV vaccination linked to lower risk of precancerous condition

A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that HPV vaccination significantly reduces the risk of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, a precancerous condition leading to cervical cancer. Vaccination coverage was high among young women born in 1993, resulting in a 30% lower risk compared to those...

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateAug 5, 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.

Ammonia sparks unexpected, exotic lightning on Jupiter

Scientists have unexpectedly found lightning in Jupiter's upper atmosphere, with ammonia playing a crucial role. The discovery reveals a complex atmosphere that challenges previous predictions, indicating an unexpected process causing the phenomenon.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Career-readiness through cross-disciplinary project-based learning

The study combines communication, electrical engineering, and business students to tackle real industry challenges, fostering cross-disciplinary learning and intellectual dexterity. The initiative aims to create cohesion among disciplines and equip students with skills for success in professional settings.

SourceEdward R. Murrow College of Communication·DateAug 5, 2020

Sustainable chemistry at the quantum level

Researchers have developed a three-pronged approach to predict novel electrocatalysts, which can simulate many atoms at once and transform catalyst development. The new method allows for high-throughput screening powered by machine learning, accelerating the discovery of efficient electrocatalysts.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalInterface·DateAug 5, 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.

Discovery could lead to more potent garlic, boosting flavor and bad breath

A team of Virginia Tech researchers discovered a new biosynthetic pathway for allicin, the compound responsible for garlic's unique flavor and aroma. This finding enables farmers to predict and control the strength of their crops, leading to more consistent production and greater flavor profiles.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 5, 2020

Life at its limits

A new study reveals that microbes in the seabed can survive on extremely low levels of energy, with some using methane and sulphate as alternative sources. This discovery challenges our understanding of life's limits and has significant implications for Earth's carbon and nutrient cycles.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 2020

Initiative to promote a culture of mobility in hospitals yields encouraging results

An initiative promoting hospital mobility in the US yielded encouraging results, with 76% of participating sites implementing successful programs. Implementing mobility programs reduced bed or chair alarm use by 1.8-fold and increased daily walks for patients by 2-fold.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 5, 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.

The curious genome of the tuatara, an ancient reptile in peril

Researchers sequenced the tuatara genome, confirming its divergence from lizards and snakes about 250 million years ago. The study found that tuatara have a unique constitution, including a lot of repetitive DNA segments with no known function, which may help them escape predators and live up to 100 years.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Scientists find how clock gene wakes up green algae

Researchers at Nagoya University have found the mechanism of the night-to-day transition of the circadian rhythm in green algae. By controlling the activity of ROC75, they can wake up green algae and enhance their photosynthetic activities to produce larger amounts of lipids.

SourceNagoya University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 5, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Real-time imaging can help prevent deadly dust explosions

Researchers at Purdue University have created an image- and video-based application using OpenCV algorithms that detects suspensible dust concentration, allowing employers to take safety measures before explosive atmospheres form.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries·DateAug 5, 2020

The yin and yang of inflammation controlled by a single molecule

Researchers identified HDAC3 as orchestrator of immune system's inflammation response to infection, with both triggering and reducing inflammation. The study highlights the need to target non-enzymatic functions of HDAC3 instead of its enzyme activity to mitigate lethal outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 2020

Study examines skin diseases in older adults

A study of 552 older adults found 80% had at least one skin disease requiring treatment, with fungal infections and eczema being the most prevalent. The research also revealed that more than a third had multiple simultaneous skin diseases, highlighting the importance of whole body skin evaluations in this age group.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 5, 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.

Tiniest secrets of integrated circuits revealed with new imaging technique

A new imaging paradigm using broadband electric force microscopy has been developed to non-destructively image and localize dopant structures in silicon chips. The technique provides a wealth of previously inaccessible detail about the electrical environment around these structures.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Electronics·DateAug 5, 2020

A one-step diagnostic may bring faster, cheaper cancer testing to remote settings

A rapid and affordable test for breast cancer has been developed to combat delayed diagnoses in developing regions. The compact CytoPAN test uses image cytometry to analyze individual cells, yielding results in under 1 hour and requiring minimal training, making it ideal for resource-limited settings.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 5, 2020

Neuroendocrine markers of grief

Research examines neuroendocrine effects of grief, finding elevated cortisol levels in bereaved individuals with possible long-term health consequences. The study calls for more research on potential markers of neuroendocrine activity associated with grief to inform tailored interventions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Neuroendocrinology·DateAug 5, 2020

Land use changes may increase disease outbreak risks

A new study found that animals carrying diseases known to infect humans are more common in landscapes intensively used by people. The research suggests altering land use to reduce the risk of future spillovers of infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 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.

Calcium-rich supernova examined with X-rays for first time

A Northwestern University-led team has uncovered the true nature of rare, mysterious events called calcium-rich supernovae. The researchers used X-ray imaging to study a calcium-rich supernova and found that it is a compact star shedding an outer layer of gas before exploding, producing bright X-rays and massive amounts of calcium.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateAug 5, 2020

Fabrication advance: Spray-on clear coatings for cheaper smart windows

Researchers at RMIT University developed a simple method for making ultra-thin, cost-effective transparent electrodes that can block heat and conduct electricity. The new spray-on coatings rival current industry standards and could simplify the fabrication of smart windows and low-emissivity glass.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateAug 5, 2020

Online 'booster' improves attitudes toward hearing health among farm youths

A study by the University of Michigan found that incorporating online 'boosters' into existing safety programs increased knowledge and attitude towards hearing conservation practices among farm youths. The research showed significant improvements in favorable attitudes, but no impact on actual behavior.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 5, 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.

New strategy against osteoporosis

Researchers identified a small protein that mobilizes bone resorbing cells under osteoporotic conditions. Chemical inhibitors targeting this protein show promise in blocking bone resorption without disrupting normal bone turnover.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2020

Herbivores, not predators, most at risk of extinction

A global study by Utah State University researchers suggests that plant-eaters, including megaherbivores, are the most at-risk group for extinction. Human activities have led to the disproportionate extinction of herbivores compared to predators since the late Pleistocene.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 5, 2020

Dinosaur relative's genome linked to mammals

The study reveals a remarkable genetic connection between the tuatara, a reptile that lived with dinosaurs, and mammals such as platypus and echidna. The genome analysis shows an unusual combination of mammalian and reptilian components, with some sequences similar to those found in platypus.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·DateAug 5, 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.

Harnessing the sun to purify concentrated waste streams

Researchers at the University of Arizona are developing a hybrid solar desalination system that combines membrane distillation, concentrated solar power, and photovoltaics to recover water from concentrated waste streams. The system uses renewable energy resources to purify concentrate streams with maximum efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateAug 5, 2020

Algal symbiosis could shed light on dark ocean

Researchers discovered that salamander eggs and algae compete to assimilate carbon from their surroundings, challenging previous assumptions about the benefits of symbiotic relationships. This finding has implications for understanding dark ocean carbon fixation and its impact on global food webs.

SourceBigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 5, 2020

New study may refine predicted survival outcomes and treatment in younger adults with acute leukemia

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center have found that molecular characteristics can refine prognostic recommendations for AML patients under age 60. The study detected mutations in several categories, which were associated with better or worse outcomes and may help improve treatment choices.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalLeukemia·DateAug 5, 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.

The three strategic priorities of marketing excellence

Researchers identified three strategic priorities for marketing excellence: marketing ecosystem, end-user, and marketing agility. The study found that investors value marketing excellence more highly than market orientation and marketing capabilities strategies, with average annual returns of 16.82%.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 5, 2020

Geothermal brines could propel California's green economy

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory are working to develop technology for efficient lithium extraction from geothermal brine in California. The projects aim to unlock the state's potential as a major supplier of lithium, essential for battery production and global demand is expected to skyrocket.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateAug 5, 2020

Understanding why some children enjoy TV more than others

A new study reveals that 10-month-old babies' brain responses can predict their preference for fast-paced TV shows six months later. The research team found that infants who are driven to explore their surroundings and engage with new sights or sounds tend to enjoy watching fast-paced TV shows.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInfancy·DateAug 5, 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.

New study to review COVID's impact on modern slavery survivors

A new study is analyzing how COVID-19 affects modern slavery survivors and victims, identifying risk factors such as non-detection, re-trafficking, and limited access to support services. The research aims to provide urgent recommendations for mitigation and protect those at risk from exploitation.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateAug 5, 2020

Skin findings described in patients with severe COVID-19

Livedo racemosa and retiform purpura are skin discolorations observed in patients with severe COVID-19. The study presents a rare but significant dermatological manifestation of the disease, shedding light on its complex clinical presentation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 5, 2020