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Science News Archive February 2020 - Page 26


Page 26 of 40

Having fewer children reduced the education gap in China

A study found that China's one-child policy contributed significantly to the increased education levels of women, with a delay in marriage and childbearing. The research suggests that some Chinese women postponed their family plans due to the policy, allowing them to pursue higher education.

SourceOhio State University·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateFeb 12, 2020

The use of jargon kills people's interest in science, politics

A new study by Ohio State University found that using specialized terms in science and technology topics leads to disengagement and decreased confidence among readers. Even defining the jargon had no effect on perception of difficulty, while non-jargon versions led to increased interest and empowerment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Language and Social Psychology·DateFeb 12, 2020

ASU's Stephanie Gil wins Sloan Research Fellowship

Stephanie Gil, an assistant professor at Arizona State University, has been awarded a Sloan Research Fellowship for her groundbreaking robotics research. Her work focuses on coordinating control across systems of multiple robots, with implications for search and rescue operations and emergency services.

SourceArizona State University·DateFeb 12, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New drug leads could battle brain-eating amoebae

Researchers have designed new quinazolinone derivatives that effectively kill brain-eating amoebae, including Naegleria fowleri and Balamuthia mandrillaris. The compounds' low toxicity for human cells makes them promising candidates for drug development.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateFeb 12, 2020

NIST researchers link quartz microbalance measurements to international measurement system

Researchers at NIST have found a way to link measurements made by a device integral to microchip fabrication directly to the recently redefined International System of Units (SI), increasing users' confidence in their measurements. The device, a quartz crystal microbalance, is critically important to industries that rely on precision c...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMetrologia·DateFeb 12, 2020

Half of US deaths related to air pollution are linked to out-of-state emissions

A study by MIT researchers found that over half of US air-quality-related early deaths are caused by emissions from other states. Electric power generation is the main culprit, accounting for up to 75% of cases. However, deaths associated with air pollution have decreased significantly since 2005, with a 30% reduction in 2018.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 12, 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.

MAiD is not driven by socioeconomic vulnerability or poor access to palliative care

A new study in Canadian Medical Association Journal found that individuals who requested medical assistance in dying (MAiD) were younger, wealthier, and more likely to be married than the general population. MAiD requests were not associated with socioeconomic vulnerabilities or access to palliative care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 12, 2020

Cracking the code for hookworm infestation

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a key mechanism that enables hookworms to evade the human immune system. By understanding how these parasites destroy neutrophil extracellular traps, scientists may be able to develop vaccines to boost immunity and prevent reinfection.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 12, 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.

Heart rate measurements of wearable monitors vary by activity, not skin color

A study by Duke University found that wearable devices like smart watches and fitness trackers accurately measure heart rate across different skin tones but have varying levels of accuracy during various activities. The research highlights the need for better understanding of device accuracy and its impact on medical decisions.

SourceDuke University·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2020

Vapers show chemical changes in their genome linked to cancer

A recent study by the Keck School of Medicine found that vapers and smokers exhibit similar epigenetic changes in their genome, which can cause genes to malfunction. These chemical alterations are commonly found in human cancer and other serious diseases.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEpigenetics·DateFeb 12, 2020

Research reverses the reproductive clock in mice

A study at the University of Queensland found that a non-invasive treatment can maintain or restore egg quality and alleviate the biggest barrier to pregnancy for older women. The treatment uses a metabolic compound to boost energy levels in cells, which were found to be lower in older female mice.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 12, 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.

How roots find their way to water

Researchers found that plants' lateral roots know where to find water early on, guiding growth towards nutrient-rich areas. This flexible response enables plants to react to environments with fluctuating resources.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Plants·DateFeb 12, 2020

Pollinating opossums confirm decades-long theory

Researchers found opossums removing bracts and eating nectar from Scybalium fungiforme flowers, confirming a nearly three-decade-old theory. The study also revealed hummingbirds as secondary pollinators, adding complexity to the plant's adaptation.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateFeb 12, 2020

Pea instead of soy in animal feed

The study found that heat treatment can improve the nutritional properties of peas by preserving proteins and reducing anti-nutritive factors. This process does not impact gas production or alter starch molecules. The results suggest that peas could be a viable alternative to soy in animal feed.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalLivestock Science·DateFeb 12, 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.

Graphene forms under microscope's eye

Researchers at Rice University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a new method to produce laser-induced graphene (LIG) with features more than 60% smaller than traditional macro versions. This technique creates LIG with almost 10 times smaller dimensions, making it ideal for flexible electronics applications. The scientists su...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 12, 2020

Physics of Life -- Lane change in the cytoskeleton

Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism that enables amphibians and fish to change their color by communicating between the actin and microtubule networks. The discovery reveals potential evolutionary paths and highlights the importance of motor proteins adapting to different cytoskeleton systems.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2020

Answers to microbiome mysteries in the gills of rainbow trout

Scientists have uncovered a crucial role of mucosal antibodies, specifically IgT, in regulating the microbiome and defending against pathogens in fish. By manipulating the immune system of rainbow trout, researchers found that IgT plays two paradoxical roles: reducing bad microbes while promoting beneficial bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Immunology·DateFeb 12, 2020

Increasing number of grocery stores in some areas could reduce food waste up to 9%

Increasing grocery store density in certain areas can drastically decrease food waste, with optimal balance found at moderate store numbers. Studies show that modest increases in store density lead to substantial reductions in waste and lower grocery expenses for households.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 12, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Portable MRIs bring diagnostics to stroke patients' bedside

A portable, low-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system has been developed to provide safe and practical brain imaging at a patient's bedside, according to preliminary research. The device used 85 stroke patients, with most completing the exam in under 30 minutes, while factors like claustrophobia halted some tests.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 12, 2020

Citizen scientists discover rare cosmic pairing

Two brown dwarfs, one about 34 times the mass of Jupiter and the other about 72 times the mass, are found to be linked despite being 341 astronomical units apart. The discovery confirms that brown dwarf systems can be very low-mass and extremely far apart yet connected.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateFeb 11, 2020

Using sound and light to generate ultra-fast data transfer

A breakthrough in controlling terahertz quantum cascade lasers enables the transmission of data at rates of 100 gigabits per second. The innovation uses acoustic waves to modulate the lasers, overcoming previous limitations and paving the way for ultra-fast wireless links and satellite communications.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 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.

More than just a carnival trick: Researchers can guess your age based on your microbes

A new study has found that researchers can accurately predict a person's chronological age using machine learning algorithms and microbiome samples. The study analyzed data from over 4,400 participants across various body sites, including skin, saliva, and feces, and found significant gender-specific differences in gut microbiome results.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalmSystems·DateFeb 11, 2020

Replacing animal testing with synthetic cell scaffolds

Scientists use electrospun synthetics to mimic the extracellular matrix, standardizing research conditions. The study reveals that different types of breast cancer cells grow best in specific cellular environments.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

New method predicts individual response to Ebola infection

A team at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health has developed a new method that accurately predicts human disease outcomes based on gene expression in individuals infected with Ebola. The model uses machine learning and was tested on a data set collected from Ebola patients in western Africa, confirming its accuracy.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 11, 2020

Utah researchers discover key protein in endometrial cancer growth

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute have identified a critical protein called ETV4 that promotes estrogen signaling in endometrial cancer cells. By removing ETV4, tumor growth can be significantly reduced, offering new avenues for treatment development.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 11, 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.

Personalized cancer vaccines

Researchers at EPFL have created a prototype vaccine that can travel to the desired location and activate immune cells, overcoming two major obstacles in therapeutic cancer vaccines. The Polycondensate Neoepitope (PNE) combines a patented technique with an algorithm for predicting mutated tumor antigens.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Central Science·DateFeb 11, 2020

Biologists reveal cellular architecture of potential fountain of youth

Researchers Alyssa Johnson and Adam Bohnert have discovered a new class of lysosomes, dubbed 'tubular lysosomes,' which can form complex networks that affect aging, disease, and stressors. Their findings could lead to medical therapies and treatments to extend health and longevity in humans and animals.

SourceLouisiana State University·DateFeb 11, 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.

Scientists develop non-invasive method to predict onset of dementia

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm to predict dementia onset using electronic medical records, showing similar accuracy to invasive tests. The method could help identify patients at risk earlier, allowing for prevention and better quality of life.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 11, 2020

Atom or noise? New method helps cryo-EM researchers tell the difference

Researchers developed Q-scores to assess true resolution at every point in cryo-EM maps, enabling accurate interpretation of atomic models. The approach validated on large molecules, achieving high-resolution maps close to 1.75 angstroms, and demonstrates improved confidence in molecular interpretations.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 11, 2020

Artificial atoms create stable qubits for quantum computing

Researchers from UNSW Sydney have created artificial atoms in silicon chips that provide improved stability for quantum computing. The artificial atoms, with shells of electrons whizzing around the centre, offer robust qubits that can be reliably used for calculations.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 11, 2020

Coincidences influence the onset and ending of ice ages

Researchers argue that coincidences displace ice ages from predictions, making them harder to predict and potentially leading to abrupt changes. The analysis shows that the climate system is more chaotic than expected, with underlying periodic processes but also significant background noise.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateFeb 11, 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.

Alarmingly low rates of HIV testing among at-risk teenage boys

A new study finds that fewer than one in four gay, bisexual and questioning teenage boys have ever received an HIV test, despite high risk of transmission. The study identified factors that increase the likelihood of testing, including frank conversations with doctors about sexual health and testing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 11, 2020

Sitting still linked to increased risk of depression in adolescents

A new study found that adolescents who spend more time sitting are at a greater risk of developing depression by age 18. The study suggests that even light physical activity, such as walking or doing chores, can reduce the risk of depressive symptoms by up to 10%.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 11, 2020

Hybrid transistor improves next-generation displays

Researchers at KAUST have developed a hybrid organic transistor for use in electronic displays and large-area electronics, overcoming production challenges of metal oxide TFTs.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 11, 2020

Recent advances in addressing tuberculosis give hope for future

Recent advances in TB diagnostics, treatments and prevention offer hope for reducing and ultimately eliminating the burden of tuberculosis. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has made significant progress in improving TB diagnostics, therapeutic regimens and prevention approaches.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 11, 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.

Bayreuth researchers discover new arsenic compounds in rice fields

Researchers have developed a new measuring method to detect sulphur-containing arsenic compounds in rice soils, which have not been accounted for in health assessments. The study identifies the need for further research on the formation and transport of these compounds to assess health risks.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 11, 2020

Pedal to the metal: Speeding up treatments for ALS

Researchers found that healthy cells clear harmful aggregates via endocytosis, a process previously thought to occur only on external substances. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for ALS by increasing the efficiency of endocytosis. The next step is to develop ways to enhance this process using genetic and chemical methods.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Telemedicine helps pregnant women tackle taboo issue

A recent study by MUSC Health found that telemedicine can be an effective way to reach pregnant women with opioid use disorder, with no significant differences in maternal and newborn outcomes compared to in-person care. Integrated, collaborative care models are crucial for treating this chronic disease, and telemedicine maximizes the ...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 11, 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.

Prater is first UTA professor to be appointed Jefferson Science Fellow

Edmund Prater, a professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, has been appointed as the first UTA professor to be selected as a Jefferson Science Fellow. He will spend a year working with the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs, Office of American Spaces.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 11, 2020

DIY tools TalkBox and SenseBox help people with disabilities to communicate

Researchers at University of Maryland Baltimore County developed DIY assistive technology platforms, including TalkBox and SenseBox, to facilitate communication for people with disabilities. These open-source platforms use low-cost sensors and a Raspberry Pi to enable users to communicate through images, sounds, or tactile objects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalIEEE Pervasive Computing·DateFeb 11, 2020

Making 3-D printing smarter with machine learning

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering develop machine learning algorithms to predict shape deviations in 3-D printing, resulting in improved accuracy across various applications and materials. The software tool, PrintFixer, is designed to be accessible to industry professionals and hobbyists alike.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering·DateFeb 11, 2020

Foot-and-mouth-disease virus could help target the deadliest cancer

Scientists have identified a peptide from the foot-and-mouth-disease virus that targets a protein on pancreatic cancer cells, allowing for highly potent drug delivery and complete tumour killing in mice. The research offers a promising new approach to treating pancreatic cancer with limited side effects.

SourcePancreatic Cancer Research Fund·JournalTheranostics·DateFeb 11, 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.