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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 2


Page 2 of 39

College football players underestimate risk of injury and concussion

A recent study found that college football players significantly underestimated their risk of injury and concussion, with 43-91% of respondents believing they were at lower risk than the actual probability. The researchers called for greater awareness and informed consent among athletes to mitigate this concern.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 29, 2020

In plants, channels set the rhythm

Researchers found that plants use rapid oscillations of stems and leaves due to wind to activate molecular switches, allowing them to respond to environmental changes. This discovery highlights the importance of plant sensitivity to mechanical signals, enabling them to prepare for storms.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Large transporter protein linked to schizophrenia

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences have identified a possible link between a large cholesterol transport protein and schizophrenia. Mice with disrupted ABCA13 protein showed abnormal behaviour, including impaired prepulse inhibition, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of ps...

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 29, 2020

Imaging the twilight zone

Researchers used novel experimental designs to study brain activity during general anesthesia and normal sleep. They found that the effects of anesthesia and sleep on brain activity were surprisingly similar, pointing to a common central core brain network fundamental for human consciousness.

SourceUniversity of Turku·DateDec 29, 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.

One year later, how does COVID-19 affect children?

A year after COVID-19's impact on children was first assessed, researchers have found that children are less likely to get severely sick than adults, yet some still experience serious symptoms. The study provides guidance for keeping families safe as children grow and thrive.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 28, 2020

Obesity, eating disorder disparities among sexual, gender minority children

A recent study has identified significant disparities in obesity and eating disorders among sexual and gender minority children, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support services. The research found that these children are at a higher risk of developing obesity and eating disorders compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 28, 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.

One psychedelic experience may lessen trauma of racial injustice

A study suggests that a single positive psychedelic experience can lower stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms in individuals who have experienced racism. The more intense the spiritual and insightful aspect of the experience, the greater the reduction in trauma-related symptoms.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 28, 2020

Sharpening clinical imaging with AI

Artificial neural networks enhance signal-to-background ratio in near-infrared imaging, sharpening blurred images. The technology has potential to improve diagnostics and image-guided surgery in the clinic.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 28, 2020

Big bumblebees learn locations of best flowers

A new study shows that big bumblebees selectively remember the location of flowers with high nectar concentrations. In contrast, smaller bumblebees invest equally in learning the locations of artificial flowers regardless of sucrose concentration.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 28, 2020

Carotid physiology, neck restraints in law enforcement

The use of neck restraints by law enforcement has been linked to potential neurologic consequences, including brain oxygen deprivation. The American Medical Association urges caution and calls for further research into the safety and appropriateness of these devices.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateDec 28, 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.

Phase 3 trial of Novavax investigational COVID-19 vaccine opens

The Phase 3 trial of Novavax's NVX-CoV2373 vaccine is being conducted in the US and Mexico, enrolling up to 30,000 adults in two cohorts. The trial aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the vaccine candidate, which has shown promise in animal tests.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateDec 28, 2020

Warm ocean currents and ice sheet collapse

The study highlights a significant difference in ice shelf collapse between two glaciers in Greenland. Warming subsurface ocean water may be the culprit behind the rapid mass loss of the Zachariae Isstrøm glacier.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 28, 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.

Switching DNA functions on and off by means of light

Researchers at the University of Münster developed a strategy to switch DNA functions on and off using light. This allows for better understanding and control of cellular processes, such as epigenetics. The method involves transferring photocaging groups to DNA using protein engineering.

SourceUniversity of Münster·DateDec 28, 2020

Surveys identify relationship between waves, coastal cliff erosion

A three-year study in Del Mar, California has uncovered the relationship between wave impacts and coastal cliff erosion, with waves affecting the base of cliffs and rain impacting the upper region. The findings provide a new opportunity to improve forecasts and predict cliff retreat.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGeomorphology·DateDec 28, 2020

New studies suggest vaping could cloud your thoughts

Two new studies from the University of Rochester Medical Center found an association between vaping and difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. Adolescents who started vaping before age 14 were more likely to experience mental fog than those who started later.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalTobacco Induced Diseases·DateDec 28, 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.

Music-induced emotions can be predicted from brain scans

Study uses machine learning to map brain regions activated by music and finds distinct patterns for happy and sad music. Emotions evoked by films and music rely on different brain mechanisms, with films activating deeper emotion-regulating regions not seen in music.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateDec 28, 2020

Expanding the global map of antibiotic resistance

The study developed statistical models using socioeconomic data to predict antimicrobial resistance prevalence. The models showed high predictive accuracy for six priority pathogens and expanded the global map to include 99% of the worldwide population in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 28, 2020

New research makes strong case for restoring Hong Kong's lost oyster reefs

New research suggests that restoring Hong Kong's lost oyster reefs can provide significant environmental benefits, including natural water filtration and habitat for native species. The study found that just 7 square meters of a Hong Kong oyster reef can filter up to one Olympic swimming pool of water each day.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalRestoration Ecology·DateDec 28, 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.

$3.9M project on self-deleting genes takes aim at mosquito-borne diseases

A new Texas A&M AgriLife Research project aims to enable temporary genetic changes in mosquitoes, which then remove themselves from the population. The goal is to test and fine-tune a self-deleting gene technology to control mosquito populations and prevent disease transmission.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateDec 28, 2020

High-speed atomic force microscopy takes on intrinsically disordered proteins

The study uses high-speed atomic force microscopy to image several intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and identify parameters defining protein shapes and sizes. The technique reveals globules that appear and disappear, as well as transformations between fully unstructured and loosely folded conformations.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 28, 2020

COVID-19 news fromAnnals of Internal Medicine

A review of over 100 research articles concludes that masks worn by lay persons reduce the spread of respiratory viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. Observational studies suggest universal masking can lead to large reductions in transmission rates, even with imperfect cloth face coverings.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 28, 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.

Common brain malformation traced to its genetic roots

Research identifies two causal genes, CHD3 and CHD8, contributing to Chiari 1 malformation. Children with unusually large heads are four times more likely to be diagnosed with the condition. The study's findings may lead to new ways to identify people at risk before serious symptoms arise.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 28, 2020

Despite recommendations, patients with treatment-resistant hypertension rarely tested for primary al

A retrospective cohort study found that testing for primary aldosteronism in patients with treatment-resistant hypertension was rare and associated with higher rates of evidence-based treatment and better blood pressure control. An adaptive stepped exercise program improved pain and physical function in knee osteoarthritis patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 28, 2020

Quick look under the skin

Researchers developed self-learning algorithms to analyze bioscientific image data, enabling fast and accurate organ detection in medical imaging. The AI-powered software can process whole-body scans of mice in seconds, outperforming human analysts.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 28, 2020

The brain network driving changes in consciousness

A brain network comprising thalamus, cingulate cortex, and angular gyri is associated with changes in connectedness during sleep and anesthesia. This region's activity corresponds to changes in conscious state, indicating its possible role in human consciousness.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateDec 28, 2020

The liverwort oil body is formed by redirection of the secretory pathway

Researchers discovered that MpSYP12B redirects the secretory pathway to form the liverwort oil body, providing strong empirical support for the organelle paralogy hypothesis. The oil body accumulates compounds with bioactivities, including antibacterial and anticancer properties.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 28, 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.

Faster, greener way of producing carbon spheres

Researchers at Swansea University have developed a faster, greener way to produce porous carbon spheres, which are crucial for carbon capture technology and renewable energy storage. The new method produces spheres with high carbon capture capacity and works effectively at large scales.

SourceSwansea University·JournalCarbon·DateDec 28, 2020

Gut cells sound the alarm when parasites invade

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine discovered that gut cells lining intestines send warning signals to the immune system upon parasite invasion. The discovery sheds light on early stages of pathogen recognition and response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 28, 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.

Discovery boosts theory that life on Earth arose from RNA-DNA mix

Chemists at Scripps Research Institute demonstrate a simple compound called diamidophosphate can assemble DNA building blocks into primordial DNA strands. This finding supports the theory that DNA and RNA arose together as products of similar chemical reactions.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 27, 2020

Model used to evaluate lockdowns was flawed

Researchers from Lund University criticized a model used to evaluate lockdowns, stating it had fundamental shortcomings and couldn't be used to draw conclusions. The Imperial College London model attributed almost all reduction in transmission during spring to lockdowns, with Sweden being an exception that offered a different explanation.

SourceLund University·JournalNature·DateDec 26, 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.

Primordial black holes and the search for dark matter from the multiverse

Researchers at Kavli IPMU propose a novel scenario for primordial black hole formation, suggesting they could account for all or part of dark matter. They also suggest that PBHs could be responsible for some gravitational wave signals and seed supermassive black holes found in the center of our Galaxy.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 25, 2020

Protein tells developing cells to stick together

Researchers at Tohoku University found that a protein called Toll-1 plays a key role in regulating cell adhesion and sorting during fruit fly development. This process helps maintain the boundaries between different cell populations and ensures proper tissue formation.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 24, 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.

Early mammal with remarkably precise bite

Paleontologists reconstructed the chewing motion of a 150-million-year-old early mammal, revealing teeth that worked extremely precisely and efficiently. This unique dentition made it easy for the animal to cut flesh, but also may have limited its ability to adapt to changing food conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 24, 2020

Discovery of aging mechanism for hematopoietic stem cells

Scientists have discovered that hematopoietic stem cell function is impaired in aged mice, even when transplanted into a young bone marrow niche. The epigenome analysis reveals that DNA methylation profiles are a better indicator of aged HSC function than gene expression patterns.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 24, 2020

Modeling can help balance economy, health during pandemic

The study uses a dynamic model to predict COVID-19 spread, incorporating infected but asymptomatic individuals and different sub-compartments. The optimal quarantine policy minimizes disease transmission and economic damage, with the sweet spot found between total lockdown and normal movement.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 24, 2020

Atomic-scale nanowires can now be produced at scale

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a way to mass-produce atomic-scale nanowires of transition metal chalcogenides, paving the way for industrial deployment in next-gen electronics. The scalable synthesis method enables the production of centimeter-sized wafers with highly crystalline and ordered wires.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 24, 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.

Shapeshifting crystals-varying stability in different forms of gallium selenide monolayers

Scientists investigate the structural stability, electronic states, and transformation of crystal phases of a recently identified polymorph of gallium selenide monolayer. The study reveals that the new phase is metastable, with stability reversing upon applying tensile strain, and large energy barriers for phase transitions.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateDec 24, 2020

Human-made landscape promotes coexistence of two normally separated Andean warblers

Researchers mapped the distribution of territories of two warbler species in a human-made landscape with patches of natural forests and pastures. The study found that both species co-occurred without direct competitive interactions, as they foraged in different habitats and locations.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 24, 2020

Multi-population risk scores could improve risk prediction for inflammatory bowel diseases, study finds

Researchers developed polygenic risk scores using genetic data from nearly 30,000 individuals, improving IBD predictions across European, Ashkenazi Jewish, Hispanic, and UK Biobank populations. Lower predictive power was seen in African ancestry due to smaller datasets and greater genetic diversity.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateDec 24, 2020

International research team calls for 'glocal' approach to help mitigate flooding damage

An international research team proposes a 'glocal' approach to better predict and prevent flooding disasters by combining global forecasting with local observations. The proposed system, GHS-F, aims to provide highly detailed and consistent rain-flood information, which could help avoid some flooding damage.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 24, 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.

Novel method reveals small microplastics throughout Japan's subtropical ocean

A new study has found small microplastics in the ocean surrounding Okinawa, with over 75% made from polyethylene. The plastics correlated more with population density than industrialized areas, highlighting potential leaching from fishing equipment and road dust.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateDec 24, 2020