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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 15


Page 15 of 39

Novel biomarkers predict the development of incident heart failure

A study found novel biomarkers associated with incident heart failure, including adiponectin and pyruvate, which were linked to increased risk after 8.8 years of follow-up. Chronic inflammation and metabolic changes were also identified as key factors.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalESC Heart Failure·DateDec 16, 2020

What lessons can medicine learn from Father Christmas?

Doctors suggest Father Christmas's skills can inform medical practice, such as taking breaks, staying hydrated, and empowering team members to raise concerns. They also emphasize the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and situational awareness in high-pressure situations like Christmas Eve deliveries.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 16, 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.

David Calfee to be sixth Editor of Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology

David P. Calfee will lead the journal with a strong vision for publishing top healthcare epidemiology research and collaborating with SHEA staff. The journal, ICHE, has improved visibility under previous editor-in-chief Suzanne Bradley's leadership and launched critical digital platforms.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateDec 16, 2020

Green chemistry creates coatings from nature

Researchers at the University of Groningen and AkzoNobel created a coating process using light, oxygen, and UV light, turning biomass into a high-quality coating. The coatings have properties comparable to those of acrylate-based coatings and can be adaptable for different purposes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 16, 2020

Connections determine everything

The study investigated factors affecting upper limb motor recovery after a stroke and found that structural integrity of the corticospinal tract is a key predictor. The researchers used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the condition of the corticospinal tract in 35 patients.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalStroke·DateDec 16, 2020

A no-meat diet everywhere will not solve the climate crisis

While a no-meat diet is recommended for industrialized regions, scientists argue that it's not a universal solution for low- and middle-income countries. Livestock are crucial to incomes and diets in these regions.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 16, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UC Study: Suicide watch more important now than ever

Researchers found a significant increase in suicidal behaviors, including ideation, planning, and attempts, between 2015-2018. The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing mental health issues and developing effective coping skills to prevent suicide. Key risk factors include African Americans, younger adults, sexual min...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCrisis·DateDec 16, 2020

COVID-19 spread increases when UV levels decrease

A study from Harvard University found that COVID-19 transmission tends to be lower in weeks following higher UV exposure, with a 7-percentage point decrease in growth rate on average across the Northern Hemisphere. This effect is modest compared to social distancing measures.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2020

One in five doctors in Sweden has a doctor parent

A Swedish study reveals that one in five doctors has at least one parent who is also a trained medical professional. The finding suggests that the profession may be increasingly hereditary, which could impact patient outcomes and the diversity of the healthcare workforce.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 16, 2020

A well-rooted study

A recent study led by UC Santa Barbara's Marc Mayes investigates how patterns in tree water loss to the atmosphere relates to groundwater supplies. The results validate at landscape-wide scales ideas that scientists have proposed based on decades of research.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalHydrological Processes·DateDec 16, 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.

Expect fewer, but more destructive landfalling tropical cyclones

A new study predicts that global warming will lead to fewer but more intense tropical cyclones, particularly category 3 or higher events, due to increased humidity and energy levels. The research used high-resolution supercomputer simulations to model the interaction between ocean heat content and tropical cyclones.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 16, 2020

Empowering women could help address climate change

A new study projects that empowering women and eradicating gender inequalities can improve societies' adaptive capacity to climate change impacts. Projections of future socioeconomic dynamics and gender inequality show that faster progress in areas like education can benefit millions of girls worldwide by 2030.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 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.

EU project will SHOWCASE the path to biodiversity-friendly farming

The EU-funded SHOWCASE project aims to integrate biodiversity into farming practices through a 5-year research collaboration between farmers, scientists, and conservationists. The project will explore socio-economic incentives for farmers to adopt biodiversity-friendly practices, which are currently underutilized.

SourcePensoft Publishers·DateDec 15, 2020

Losing money causes plastic changes in the brain

Researchers at HSE University found that signals predicting financial losses evoke plastic changes in the cortex, allowing for more accurate identification of impending financial troubles. These changes occur rapidly and automatically, without requiring voluntary attention.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 15, 2020

New approach can improve COVID-19 predictions worldwide

Researchers developed a new method to predict epidemic development, which considers both best and worst-case scenarios. This approach provides a more realistic estimate of the epidemic's severity, helping policymakers make informed decisions.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 15, 2020

Researchers develop Si-based super-high frequency nanoelectromechanical resonator

Researchers have developed a new type of ultra-high frequency Si-based nanoelectromechanical resonator that can be used for quantum computing and sensing applications. The device demonstrates excellent mechanical properties, including single-hole tunneling behavior and a record high resonance frequency of 3 GHz.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 15, 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.

New research highlights impacts of weedkiller on wildlife

A University of Birmingham team used Daphnia to test the effects of Roundup on keystone species. They found significant harm to animals' metabolism and gut function, even at approved regulatory levels. The results offer a starting point for tracking herbicide impacts across different species.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalMicrobiome·DateDec 15, 2020

Two tough fungi discovered in Denmark: Devour flies from within

Researchers in Denmark have found two new fungal species that infect adult flies, creating a hole in their abdomens and keeping them flying for days. The fungi may be producing substances that 'dope' the flies, with potential applications in medicine.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of Invertebrate Pathology·DateDec 15, 2020

COVID-19 patients at higher risk of death, health problems than those with flu

A new study analyzing federal data reveals COVID-19 is associated with an increased need for ventilators, longer hospital stays and nearly five times the risk of death than the flu. The research also found COVID-19 can damage other organs, increasing the risk of complications such as kidney and liver damage.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 15, 2020

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Largest seroprevalence study in the region finds number of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Iran may be higher than expected

A large-scale seroprevalence study in Iran found that around 17.1% of the population has been infected with SARS-CoV-2, with significant variations between cities and occupations. Despite this high rate, a substantial proportion of the population remains susceptible to infection.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateDec 15, 2020

Catalytic activity of individual cobalt oxide nanoparticles determined

Researchers have developed a new technique to analyze the properties of individual cobalt oxide particles, enabling more efficient catalysts for hydrogen production. The method allows for the selection of particles under an electron microscope and their placement on a nanoelectrode for electrochemical analysis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 15, 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.

AI model shows promise to generate faster, more accurate weather forecasts

A new AI model has shown promise in generating faster and more accurate weather forecasts by analyzing past weather patterns. The model uses about 7,000 times less computing power than traditional forecasting models while still simulating a year's weather around the globe.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·DateDec 15, 2020

Engineers go microbial to store energy, sequester CO2

Bioengineers at Cornell University have created theoretical solutions for efficiently absorbing and storing large-scale renewable energy from the sun while sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide. The developed microbes can store energy and absorb CO2, potentially creating low-carbon fuel with net-zero emissions.

SourceCornell University·JournalJoule·DateDec 15, 2020

To the brain, reading computer code is not the same as reading language

Researchers found that reading computer code primarily activates the multiple demand network, which is also recruited for complex cognitive tasks such as math and problem-solving. This finding suggests that coding does not rely on language-processing centers, contrary to previous hypotheses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 15, 2020

Positive messages encourage safer driver behavior than fear tactics

A new study found that films demonstrating responsible behavior significantly decreased risky driving behaviors among young drivers, while fear-based content had the opposite effect. The research suggests that positive messages can be a more effective way to promote road safety.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalRisk Analysis·DateDec 15, 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.

Kernels of history

Genetic analysis reveals that improved maize varieties developed by Indigenous South Americans were reintroduced into Central America, potentially leading to more productive and consumed varieties. The study provides new insights into the spread of maize in the Americas and its impact on human history.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2020

Hopes of new treatment strategies for glaucoma

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a connection between metabolic disturbance in retinal ganglion cells and high intraocular pressure. Rapamycin and pyruvate treatments showed protective effects in animal and cell models.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 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.

Extreme political advertising can hurt campaign efforts

A Dartmouth study reveals that extreme political messaging can radicalize supporters, pulling them away from undecided voters. Researchers used a computer model to simulate social media users and found that aggressive communications can backfire, solidifying support among existing backers but alienating moderate voters.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPhysical Review X·DateDec 15, 2020

Scientists show what loneliness looks like in the brain

A study of 40,000 adults found that lonely individuals have distinct brain regions and networks, including a stronger default network and preserved fornix nerve fibers. This could help prevent neurological disease and develop better treatments for loneliness.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2020

Engineers develop soft robotic gripper

A new soft robotic gripper designed by researchers at the University of Georgia uses a unique twining motion to offer several advantages over existing robotic devices. The device has embedded sensors providing real-time feedback, enabling it to firmly grasp objects as small as 1 millimeter in diameter.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalOptics Express·DateDec 15, 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.

Cancer researchers identify potential new class of drugs to treat blood and bone marrow cancers

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Institute have identified a potential new class of targeted drugs to treat myeloid leukemias, including those with the common TET2 gene mutation. The new pharmacological strategy, TETi76, preferentially targets and eliminates leukemia cells with TET2 mutations in preclinical models.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·DateDec 15, 2020

RNA basic building block produced biocatalytically for the first time

Scientists successfully produced C-nucleosides, the basic building blocks of RNA, using an enzyme called YeiN, offering a more efficient and eco-friendly alternative to chemical synthesis. This breakthrough has implications for the production of RNA-based therapeutic products, such as vaccines.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2020

How does pathogen sense environment? Scientists identify key proteins' structures

Researchers have discovered a new two-component system (TCS) in bacteria that helps sense environmental stimuli and trigger cellular responses. The study reveals the molecular mechanism of G6P signal transduction by HptRSA sensor complex, providing important clues for nutritional sensing mechanisms in bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 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.

Undruggable diseases gain a new RNA drug-discovery tool

A new RNA drug-discovery tool called Chem-CLIP-Fragment Mapping has been developed to address the challenge of 'undruggable' proteins. The tool uses functionalized fragments that can bind to RNAs and modify their structure, enabling the design of medicines against previously untreatable diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2020

Creating a ground plan for stonefly evolution

A team of researchers led by the University of Tsukuba examined five different stonefly species' eggs to understand their evolutionary relationships. They found that differences in egg structure, such as hard outer membranes and attachment structures, provided insight into the order's ground plan and evolutionary history.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalArthropod Structure & Development·DateDec 15, 2020

Augmented reality visor makes cake taste moister, more delicious

Researchers developed an augmented reality (AR) visor system that manipulates light distribution to alter food appearance. This technique altered perceptions of moistness, wateriness, and deliciousness in people consuming the food, with the most notable effects on cake and ketchup.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 15, 2020

Structural racism severely impacts the health of foreign-born Blacks and Latinx

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine highlights the devastating impact of structural racism on the health of foreign-born Blacks and Latinx. Chronic exposure to stressors erodes health, with significant disparities found among these groups compared to US-born individuals.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 15, 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.

Researchers use origami to solve space travel challenge

WSU researchers have developed an origami-inspired fuel bladder that can be squeezed at least 100 times without breaking or leaking under cold conditions. This breakthrough solves a key challenge in space travel, enabling larger and longer-duration missions.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCryogenics·DateDec 15, 2020

Device mimics life's first steps in outer space

The VENUS device simulates complex organic molecules in interstellar space conditions by replicating the strong vacuum and frigid temperatures found in space. This allows researchers to better understand how these molecules form and potentially identify prebiotic species involved in early life processes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateDec 15, 2020

Drug for pulmonary hypertension may become an option against cancer

Researchers found a drug used to treat pulmonary hypertension significantly reduced tumor cell migration and invasion, and showed promise in slowing breast cancer progression. The study aims to conduct clinical trials with patients undergoing chemotherapy to further investigate the treatment's effectiveness.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 15, 2020

My, what sharp teeth

Gorgonopsians, a lineage more related to humans than dinosaurs, evolved the first complex tooth serration made of enamel and dentine, discovered in a new Harvard-led study. This finding indicates that gorgonopsians developed this specialized structure early in amniote evolution.

SourceHarvard University·DateDec 15, 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.

Water may be an effective treatment for metabolic syndrome

Researchers found that water suppresses vasopressin, a hormone linked to obesity and diabetes, alleviating conditions in mice. Water therapy effectively protected against metabolic syndrome, a collection of conditions increasing the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJCI Insight·DateDec 15, 2020

My what sharp teeth you have!

A study published in Biology Letters reveals that ancient synapsids, such as gorgonopsians and Dimetrodon, shared serrated tooth structures with theropod dinosaurs. These findings suggest that convergent evolution led to similar adaptations in these distinct groups of predators.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalBiology Letters·DateDec 15, 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.

Accurate neural network computer vision without the 'black box'

A team of researchers from Duke University has developed a method to make neural networks more transparent and interpretable. By modifying the reasoning process behind predictions, it is possible to better understand how these complex models work. The approach involves replacing standard parts of a neural network with new ones that con...

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateDec 15, 2020

Study shows the impact of genetic diversity on effective alligatorweed control

A recent study published in Invasive Plant Science and Management found that genetic diversity among alligatorweed populations affects their response to control measures. The research team identified six genetic variations of the plant, including those responding differently to herbicides and biological controls.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·DateDec 15, 2020

Lessons learned from the COVID-19 frontline

The conference shares current knowledge and thinking across physiological systems, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between physiology and critical care. Physiologists have played an integral part in managing COVID-19, highlighting the importance of understanding pathophysiology to drive appropriate clinical intervention.

SourceThe Physiological Society·DateDec 15, 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.