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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 16


Page 16 of 39

ARPA-E funds UVA-led team to develop new coating for turbine engin

A UVA-led team has been awarded $600,000 to develop a new coating that will enable a niobium alloy to perform at 1800°C. The HERO coating aims to increase the materials' temperature tolerance by 200 degrees Celsius, addressing a critical challenge in turbine engine technology.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 15, 2020

Balancing climate and development goals

A new study explores the climate consequences of developing countries reaching a specific per-capita GDP level before reducing carbon emissions. The research suggests that delaying decarbonization in these countries would result in less than 0.3°C of additional warming and only a 6% increase in total cumulative CO2 emissions by 2100.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 15, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Penn vision researchers honored by End Blindness 2020

Researchers Gustavo D. Aguirre, Jean Bennett, and Albert M. Maguire receive $1 million prize for developing FDA-approved gene therapy for Leber congenital amaurosis, a genetic disease causing visual impairments. Their work has enabled routine treatment of the condition, restoring vision in children and adults.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·DateDec 15, 2020

Tri-lab initiative leads innovation in novel hybrid energy systems

Researchers from three US DOE labs outline a framework for engineering-based modeling and analysis to support complex optimization of hybrid energy systems. The study presents an objective new path forward for leveraging multiple energy sources to maximize value.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·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.

New, ultrastable tetrahedral "chiral zinc" added to synthetic chemistry toolbox

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have designed a new tetrahedral 'chiral zinc' molecule with exceptional stability and catalytic activity. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in pharmaceuticals and optical electronics by allowing for more efficient synthesis of chiral molecules, which are essential for many drugs.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 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.

Weak force has strong impact on nanosheets

Rice University scientists found that van der Waals force can indent rigid nanosheets, changing their electromagnetic properties. The researchers discovered that the force is sufficient to deform 8-nanometer-thick silver sheets into curvilinear structures with potential applications in nanophotonic research and catalytic systems.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 15, 2020

Do tumors stiff-arm the immune system?

Tumor cells produce excess complement protein iC3b to mask abnormal proteins, evading immune cell attack. The immune system relies on a flexible receptor CR3 to distinguish between 'I belong' and 'I don't belong' tags.

SourceInsideOutBio·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·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.

Earable computing: A new research area in the making

The SyNRG team at the University of Illinois is exploring a new sub-area of mobile technology called 'earable computing' that will run on earphones. This platform aims to continuously sense human behavior, provide acoustic augmented reality, and offer seamless security, among other capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateDec 15, 2020

Gene therapy for placental insufficiency moves toward the clinic

A new study identified an adenovirus gene therapy vector carrying a VEGF isoform that can improve uterine blood flow in placental insufficiency. Reduced uterine blood flow and lack of bioavailable VEGF are major causes of severe fetal growth restriction, leading to serious neonatal morbidity and death.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·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.

'Peecycling' payoff: Urine diversion shows multiple environmental benefits when used at city scale

A University of Michigan-led study finds that urine diversion and recycling can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, energy use, freshwater consumption, and the potential for algal blooms. The method also has lower environmental impacts than conventional wastewater treatment and fertilizer production methods.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 15, 2020

St. Edward's University study finds a manly beard may help drive sales

A study by St. Edward's University found that bearded sales personnel are viewed as more expert and trustworthy than clean-shaven counterparts, leading to increased purchase likelihood and satisfaction. The researchers discovered this effect regardless of the salesperson's race or ethnicity, age, attractiveness, and context.

SourceSt. Edward's University·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateDec 15, 2020

An avocado a day keeps your gut microbes happy

A new study from the University of Illinois found that consuming avocados as part of a daily meal increased beneficial bacteria and improved gut health in adults with overweight or obesity. The research also showed that avocado consumption reduced bile acids and increased short-chain fatty acids, leading to positive health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateDec 15, 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.

Resistance training paired with peanut protein affects muscle health in older adults

A six- to ten-week resistance training program significantly improved knee flexion peak torque and vastus lateralis thickness in older adults who received peanut protein supplementation, compared to those without. The study found that PP supplementation increased muscle strength and growth in untrained older individuals.

SourceKetchum New York·JournalJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·DateDec 15, 2020

Supporting renewable electricity: EU member states should coordinate reform efforts

A new study highlights the importance of coordinated policy reforms in supporting renewable electricity across EU member states. Without coordination, investors may shift their focus to subsidized technologies or countries with available subsidies, increasing the overall costs of expanding renewable energy generation in Europe. Strengt...

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnergy Policy·DateDec 15, 2020

Fighting hypertension through electrical impulses

Researchers used bioelectronic stimulation to modulate lymphocyte activation in the spleen, potentially influencing hypertension. The study suggests a non-pharmacological approach to treating high blood pressure.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 15, 2020

Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles ease brain bleeding in newborn rats

Researchers at Sungkyunkwan University found that stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles can reduce severe intraventricular hemorrhage-induced brain injuries in newborn rats. The neuroprotection is primarily mediated by BDNF transfer via EVs, providing a promising potential treatment for bleeding in the brain.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·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.

Drug may boost vaccine responses in older adults

A preliminary study found that a drug helping immune cells self-clean can improve vaccine protection in older adults. The drug boosts autophagy, which is blunted in older individuals, restoring immune cell function and enhancing vaccination efficiency.

SourceeLife·DateDec 15, 2020

Finland makes use of excellent population research data

The COHORT Academy Programme has become a global leader in collaborative use of existing research data, integrating basic and clinical research to improve scientific impact. This collaboration is exemplified by six multidisciplinary projects that combined different datasets for healthy ageing studies.

SourceAcademy of Finland·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.

Women face higher risk of death or heart failure following a heart attack: study

A new study from University of Alberta researchers found that women are at a 20% higher risk of dying or experiencing heart failure after a heart attack compared to men. The study examined data on over 45,000 Canadians who were hospitalized for their first heart attack between 2002 and 2016.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCirculation·DateDec 15, 2020

Scientists warn of likely massive oil spill endangering the Red Sea, region's health

A team of international scientists led by Karine Kleinhaus warns of a potential massive oil spill from an abandoned tanker in the Red Sea, which could devastate the region's unique coral reefs and marine ecosystems. The Safer, a floating storage unit with over 1 million barrels of oil, is at risk of leaking into the sea.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateDec 15, 2020

Quantifying effects of non-pharmaceutical interventions on SARS-CoV-2 transmission with modeling

A new modeling study found that limiting gatherings to fewer than 10 people and closing educational institutions significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Closing schools, universities, and nonessential businesses had a considerable impact on transmission rates, while targeted closures of high-risk businesses showed more benefit.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 15, 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.

Evapotranspiration in an arid environment

Researchers quantify water usage of landscape plants in arid environments to inform irrigation practices. The study found that mature trees become more water efficient, reducing the need for turfgrass, and that removing turfgrass can lead to significant water savings.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 15, 2020

Novel MRI contrast agent sidesteps toxic effects of current products

Researchers developed a manganese-based contrast agent that is diagnostically equivalent to gadolinium-based contrast agents but without the toxicity, offering a safer alternative for patients with chronic kidney disease. The new agent, Mn-PyC3A, is rapidly and completely eliminated from the body and does not accumulate in tissues.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalInvestigative Radiology·DateDec 15, 2020

3D printers may be toxic for humans

Research studies have found that 3D printer emissions can cause moderate toxicity in human lung cells and minimal toxicity in rats. The emitted particles can affect indoor air quality and public health, particularly for children who are more susceptible to the effects of these emissions.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·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.

Poverty linked to higher risk of Covid-19 death, study suggests

A nationwide study found that people in Scotland's poorest areas were more likely to be affected by severe Covid-19 and die from the disease. The study highlights the need for extra support to critical care units in poorer areas and tackling health inequalities.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateDec 15, 2020

What is an aerosol-generating procedure?

Aerosol-generating medical procedures are a concern due to their high SARS-CoV-2 transmission risk. Four key factors discussed in the article highlight the importance of understanding and mitigating these risks.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 15, 2020

Nearly half of young drivers are resuming driving just weeks after sustaining a concussion

A study found that nearly half of adolescents who sought specialty care for a concussion were back to driving within two weeks, despite few returning to exercise and sports. The researchers recommend a staged approach to cognitive activities, including driving, with clinicians implementing a gradual return-to-driving protocol.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 15, 2020

The mask matters: How masks affect airflow, protection effectiveness

Researchers found that wearing a mask can actually increase the inhalation of aerosols into the nose, making fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers more problematic. The study suggests that choosing a more effective mask and wearing it properly are crucial to curb COVID-19 transmission.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateDec 15, 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.

Too many donor kidneys are discarded in U.S. before transplantation

A US study finds that many donor kidneys are discarded due to low-quality tissue, yet can function acceptably when transplanted. The study suggests that procurement biopsies add little value and may even reduce the supply of available kidneys.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 15, 2020

Microbes in dental plaque look more like relatives in soil than those on the tongue

A recent study published in Genome Biology has shed new light on the genetic makeup of microbial communities in the mouth. The research team used metagenomics to analyze the genomes of microbes found in dental plaque and tongue, revealing surprising similarities with those found in soil and the gastrointestinal tract.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalGenome Biology·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.

Bermudagrass versus the armyworm

Researchers evaluated 14 experimental bermudagrasses for resistance to fall armyworm damage, identifying a few promising genotypes that are comparable to the industry standard 'TifTuf'. These new genotypes may offer an alternative to environmentally unsound insecticides and help reduce turfgrass damage.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 15, 2020

Reversible superoxide-peroxide conversion drives high-capacity potassium-metal batte

Researchers have realized a reversible superoxide-peroxide conversion in a K-based high-capacity rechargeable sealed battery device, boosting cathode capacity to 300 mAh/g and achieving high energy efficiency. This breakthrough overcomes gaseous O2-related intrinsic defects and phase changes between gaseous O2 and solid Li/Na/KxO.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 15, 2020

New fullerene crystal production method 50 times faster than predecessor

Researchers have successfully developed a highly efficient technique for producing one-dimensional fullerene crystals, called fullerene finned-micropillar (FFMP), that can be produced in an hour. The team achieved this significant breakthrough by utilizing a small heating apparatus and annealing process.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 15, 2020

Digital trackers for mental health not yet fit for purpose

A University of Bath expert cautions that digital trackers for mental health are not yet fit for purpose due to unclear links between online and offline behavior. The researcher highlights concerns over privacy, data protection, and the potential impact on vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalGeneral Hospital Psychiatry·DateDec 15, 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.