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Science News Archive February 2020


Page 18 of 40

Test measures immune response to improve ovarian cancer diagnosis

Researchers developed a simple blood test that measures the body's immune response to improve ovarian cancer diagnosis. The test uses an immune marker for inflammation and cancer markers to detect epithelial ovarian cancer in blood, with results validated across two separate human trial cohorts.

Trust your gut on plant-based diets for heart health

A study found that reducing animal product intake and following a primarily plant-based diet can decrease the risk of heart disease by minimizing the adverse effects of a gut-microbiome associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease. Higher TMAO levels were linked to a 67% higher risk of CHD.

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.

Seeding oceans with iron may not impact climate change

Researchers found that Earth's oceans already contain just the right amount of iron, making it unlikely to improve carbon dioxide absorption. Phytoplankton growth is more dependent on organic compounds called ligands, which regulate iron availability.

Light moves spins around

Scientists have discovered a new microscopic process called optical intersite spin transport (OISTR) that allows light to trigger a displacement of electrons between atoms, influencing the local magnetization. This process is accompanied by a leveling of electron reservoirs and can be tailored by bringing together specific types of atoms.

Adolescent male chimps still need their mamas

A new study of wild chimpanzees finds that males whose mothers were present during their tween and teen years had higher odds of survival later in life. The study also suggests that adolescent males benefit from their mother's wealth of experience and knowledge, such as how to avoid predators or find food.

Breaking the communication code

Researchers identified precisely which mouse is making which sound in a study published in Nature Neuroscience. Mouse calls are different depending on the position of the mouse and relate to dominant signals.

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.

Hippocampal avoidance during WBRT reduces risks on NRG Oncology trial

The NRG-CC001 trial found that lowering radiotherapy dose to hippocampal stem cells reduces cognitive toxicity and neurologic symptoms in patients with brain metastases. Patients who received whole-brain radiotherapy with hippocampal avoidance reported improved cognitive function, reduced fatigue, and fewer cognitive symptoms.

A shift in shape boosts energy storage

A team developed new hydrogen evolution photocatalysts (HEPs) made from two semiconducting materials, enhancing energy storage. The HEPs absorb more visible light, increasing hydrogen production rates an order of magnitude beyond current single-component inorganic HEPs.

Study identifies risk factors for endometrial cancer

A systematic review of 149 studies has identified 24 genetic variants that increase the risk of endometrial cancer by up to 3.16 times. The study provides a polygenic risk score for personalized risk assessment, facilitating targeted screening and prevention strategies.

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.

Heavy backpack? Good for you

A Rice University study found that public school students have healthier core strength than home-schooled children due to daily use of heavy backpacks. The research also revealed a disparity in push-up performance between the two groups, with public school students meeting requirements and home-schoolers narrowly missing them.

Testing during studying improves memory and inference

A new study found that testing enhances both memory and the ability to make inferences about subject matter. The researchers tested participants with either rote restudy or testing, and found that testing improved long-term memory and inference over a period of 25 days.

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.

Light-sheet fluorescence imaging goes more parallelized

A new form of imaging modality called coded light-sheet array microscopy (CLAM) allows for full 3D parallelized fluorescence imaging without scanning. CLAM reduces photobleaching and preserves biological specimen viability, enabling long-term volumetric imaging.

Neuroscience opens the black box of artificial intelligence

Researchers at Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg are using brain research methods to analyze artificial neural networks and improve explainable AI. The Cognitive neuroscience inspired techniques project aims to understand the internal processes of ANNs and identify malfunctions.

Climate change and precipitation in Mediterranean climates

A study reveals that Mediterranean-like climates are experiencing variable responses to climate warming, with some regions drying faster than global-mean warming. The differences result from distinct regional changes in atmospheric circulation driven by separate fast and slow sea-surface temperature responses to greenhouse gases.

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.

Leadership and assertiveness

A recent study by Jackson Lu, Richard Nisbett, and Michael Morris found that East Asians are disproportionately underrepresented in US leadership positions due to relatively lower assertiveness. The research suggests that diverse leadership styles are valuable for organizations and highlights the need for recognition of these differences.

The skinny on why poor sleep may increase heart risk in women

A new study from Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that women who sleep poorly tend to overeat and consume lower-quality diets. Women with poorer sleep quality consumed more added sugars, calories, and unhealthy fats, while those with insomnia symptoms ate more food by weight.

Magnetographic imaging of muscle activity

Noninvasive magnetographic imaging of muscle activity allows spatial and temporal mapping of physiological electric currents, enabling studies of the cardiac cycle and lower back pain. This breakthrough method offers diverse applications in medical research and could provide new insights into muscle function and pain mechanisms.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Controlling the messenger with blue light

Researchers developed an optogenetic method called mRNA-LARIAT to control mRNA position and translation in living cells. The technique uses blue light to trap specific mRNAs, reducing protein synthesis and cell motility.

New artificial neural network model bests MaxEnt in inverse problem example

A new artificial neural network model has been developed to solve inverse problems, demonstrating accuracy comparable to the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) approach. The model's versatility and robustness against noisy data have been showcased in various tests, including recovering electron single-particle spectral densities.

Warming, acidic oceans may nearly eliminate coral reef habitats by 2100

New research suggests that rising sea surface temperatures and acidic waters could eliminate nearly all existing coral reef habitats by 2100. The study found that few to zero suitable coral habitats will remain by 2100, with only small portions of Baja California and the Red Sea being viable locations for coral reefs.

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.

The (un)usual suspect -- novel coronavirus identified

Scientists from China's top research institutes discovered the novel coronavirus responsible for the Wuhan pneumonia epidemic through next-generation sequencing and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. The virus is 99.8-99.9% similar among all patients' samples, closely related to bat SARS-like CoVs.

Areas near concentration camps give more electoral support to the far right

A study by Toni Rodon and colleagues found that areas near former concentration camps in Germany receive more electoral support for far-right parties. The researchers suggest that the 'satiation hypothesis' may explain why this relationship ceases to be significant when the Alternative for Germany party is included in the analysis.

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.

How many gender subtypes exist in the brain?

Researchers at McGill University have discovered at least nine directions of brain-gender variation using a unique dataset and machine learning algorithms. This finding has important consequences for promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in Canada and beyond.

Scientists pioneer new way to study exoplanets

A team of scientists using the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) radio telescope has detected radio waves from exoplanets interacting with their star's magnetic field, which can heat and erode a planet's atmosphere. The discovery paves the way for novel ways to probe exoplanet environments and determine habitability.

Hospitality, not medical care, drives patient satisfaction

A new study reveals that patients' ratings of hospitals are more closely tied to hotel-like amenities and services than medical care quality. Hospitality scores have a limited impact on patient survival rates, while factors such as nurse responsiveness and room tidiness have a greater influence on satisfaction.

Research team works to develop new ways to detect air pollutants

A team of Virginia Tech researchers has developed a new wearable analyzer to measure hazardous air pollutants in real-time for truck drivers and other workers. The device, called iWAVE, provides a time-resolved measurement of exposure and is expected to revolutionize the way workers combat harmful pollutants on a daily basis.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Offspring sex and maternal aging

A study on wild bighorn sheep suggests that male offspring may lead to a faster decline in reproductive success and aging rates in mothers. Females that produced more male than female offspring early in life experienced reduced winter survival rates among their offspring, contributing to accelerated maternal aging.

Study: Disease-causing repeats help human neurons function

A study by Michigan Medicine team discovered that repeat expansions cause neurodegenerative diseases but also found normal functions of these repeats in regulating protein production in healthy nerve cells. The research suggests a potential pathway for treating Fragile X syndrome and other disorders.

Moderate intensity exercise can benefit memory performance

Research by University of Kent found that moderate intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, significantly benefits long-term memory performance. The study suggests that moderate exercise is a more effective approach than highly strenuous exercise for improving memory.

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 chip brings ultra-low power Wi-Fi connectivity to IoT devices

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new ultra-low power Wi-Fi radio that consumes just 28 microwatts of power, enabling IoT devices to communicate with existing Wi-Fi networks. The chip can transmit data at a rate of 2 megabits per second over a range of up to 21 meters.

Ancient plant foods discovered in Arnhem Land, Australia

A team of archaeologists and Traditional Owners identified 10 plant foods, including fruits, nuts, roots, and palm stem, preserved as charcoal at the Madjedbebe archaeological site. The discovery provides insights into the complex lifestyle of the earliest Australian Aboriginal people.

Mortality from all causes over 40% higher in female domestic abuse survivors

Women who have experienced domestic abuse appear to be more than 40 per cent more likely to die from any cause compared to the general population. The researchers found an increased risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in those who have experienced abuse.

Southern Ocean sea ice and carbon sequestration

A 784,000-year climate simulation reveals that Southern Ocean sea ice significantly reduces atmospheric carbon dioxide during glacial periods. By limiting surface water exposure and vertical mixing of deep ocean waters, sea ice drives a 40 ppm reduction in atmospheric CO2 levels.

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.

Symbolic behavior in modern humans

Early symbolism in modern humans evolved to become easier to remember and replicate, as shown by experiments using engraved ochre and ostrich eggshell fragments. Participants more accurately recognized young patterns than old patterns, suggesting aesthetic intention behind the creations.

Cutting off kidney cancer at its roots

Researchers at MDC have found a weakness in the most common form of kidney cancer by identifying stem cells that depend on two critical biochemical signals. Blocking these signals hinders tumor growth in several laboratory models, suggesting a promising new approach to treating human patients.

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.

Scientists explore new method to help people with alcohol use disorder

Scientists at Virginia Tech explore a novel approach to treat alcohol use disorder by using behavioral analysis and neuroimaging to understand decision-making processes. By pre-experiencing future events, individuals can mentally construct how they will feel, reducing the value they place on alcohol.

The origins of roughness

Scientists discovered that all materials develop identical statistical properties when exposed to mechanical deformation, leading to self-affine surface roughness. This finding explains the observed universality of surface roughness across different scales and materials.

An intelligent and compact particle analyzer

A team of European scientists developed a micro-particle size analyser using AI and consumer electronics. The device measures particle size with precision comparable to commercial light-based analysers, but is much smaller, lighter, and cheaper.

Fast-charging, long-running, bendy energy storage breakthrough

Researchers have developed a new supercapacitor that combines high power density and energy density, enabling fast charging and long runtime. The device can be bent to 180 degrees without compromising performance, making it ideal for wearable electronics and electric vehicles.

Low-dose methotrexate associated with small increase in some adverse events

A study found that low-dose methotrexate was associated with a small increase in adverse events, such as skin cancer and gastrointestinal problems. However, the risk for kidney-related side effects was decreased. The findings suggest that monitoring guidelines and safe prescribing of LD-MTX may need to be revised.

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.

Road salt harmful to native amphibians, new research shows

Researchers at Binghamton University found that road salt and invasive species can harm native amphibians, with non-native African clawed frogs showing greater tolerance to chemical changes. This study highlights the need for better environmental management strategies to protect natural ecosystems.

Scientists pinpoint brain coordinates for face blindness

Researchers identified reduced brain activity in a specific left-brain area in individuals with face blindness, contrasting with normal activity in control subjects when viewing faces. The discovery provides new insights into the condition and may aid in developing treatments.

Atomic structures mapped in measles, mumps, flu and RSV

Scientists have determined the 3D atomic structure of a key enzyme complex in paramyxoviruses, a family of RNA viruses that includes measles, mumps, human parainfluenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This discovery could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs for these viruses as well as coronavirus.