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Science News Archive February 2020 - Page 31


Page 31 of 40

Gordon examining secure computation

Gordon examines secure computation to leverage user data without compromising privacy. He investigates three key tasks: handling large volumes of data with few parties, interacting with a large number of parties, and storing dynamic data in a distributed plane.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 7, 2020

Next generation of greenhouses may be fully solar powered

A new study models the potential of semitransparent organic solar cells to power greenhouses, finding that many can become energy neutral in warm or temperate climates. The technology allows greenhouses to generate energy from unused light while minimizing impact on plant growth.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJoule·DateFeb 7, 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.

Microscopic eye movements vital for 20/20 vision

Researchers from the University of Rochester found that fixational eye movements are critical for achieving 20/20 vision. They discovered that even subtle eye movements allow people to read further on a Snellen eye chart than when these movements are absent or impaired.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020

Li developing robust design of chemical gas sensor arrays

The research aims to provide an effective and efficient simulation technology for designing high-performance gas sensors and sensor arrays. The team will model physisorption and chemisorption of gas molecules on sensor surfaces and study environmental effects.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 7, 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 small grain of moon dust, one giant leap for lunar studies

Scientists discovered a new way to analyze lunar soil using atom probe tomography, allowing them to identify products of space weathering, pure iron, water, and helium. This technique can help researchers learn more about conditions on the Moon's surface and formation of precious resources.

SourceField Museum·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateFeb 7, 2020

Understanding unexplained low blood sugar in children: More than normal variation

Researchers have identified four novel genes related to glucose metabolism that appear to explain unexplained low blood sugar in at least four families. The discovery may lead to the development of a novel drug against diabetes. However, more studies are needed to confirm the exact functional significance of these genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2020

Pneumococcal vaccines are effective -- But new strategies needed to reduce meningitis

Researchers suggest new vaccines targeting all pneumococcal strains colonizing the nose and throat, irrespective of capsular type, will be needed to prevent meningitis. Emerging non-PCV type strains cause meningitis at least as severely as targeted types, highlighting the need for updated vaccination strategies.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateFeb 7, 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.

HKU team identifies areas of top priority for deep-sea monitoring

A survey of world's leading deep-sea scientists identified priorities for deep-sea monitoring, including large animals and habitats like deep-sea corals. The study highlights the need for a better standardized monitoring framework to prepare for future management.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 7, 2020

High levels of PFAS affect immune, liver functions in cape fear river striped bass

Researchers have discovered high levels of PFAS chemicals in the blood of Cape Fear River striped bass, which are associated with altered immune and liver functions. The study found elevated concentrations of PFOS and Nafion byproduct 2, particularly in smaller or younger fish, highlighting the unique properties of these chemicals.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironment International·DateFeb 7, 2020

Middle-aged adults worried about health insurance costs now, uncertain for future

Nearly half of middle-aged adults in their 50s and early 60s lack confidence they can afford health insurance in the next year. Two-thirds worry about potential changes to health insurance policies affecting them. Many avoid seeking care due to cost concerns, with those in fair or poor health being four times more likely.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 7, 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 CAR-T target yields promising results for multiple myeloma

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute developed a novel CAR T cell therapy targeting CD229, a molecule present on cancer cells and stem cells in patients with multiple myeloma. Laboratory tests showed promising results, including the ability to kill mature multiple myeloma cells and myeloma stem cells.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020

Cervical cancer screening saves lives

A new study from UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center scientists reveals that cervical cancer screening every three years is protective against cervical cancer. Most cancers are caught before spreading, making treatment easier. Screening was found to reduce localized and distant cancers.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateFeb 7, 2020

How long coronaviruses persist on surfaces and how to inactivate them

Coronaviruses can survive on surfaces for an average of four to five days, with low temperatures and high air humidity extending their lifespan. Effective disinfection solutions, such as those containing ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, or sodium hypochlorite, can significantly reduce the number of infectious particles within minutes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·DateFeb 7, 2020

Bovine embryo completely regenerates placenta-forming cells

A bovine embryo successfully regenerates its placenta-forming cells, demonstrating a high regenerative capacity compared to mice. The study opens up possibilities for genetic testing and breeding cattle with improved qualities.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 7, 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.

UCSC genome browser posts the coronavirus genome

The UCSC Genome Browser has made available the complete biomolecular code of the coronavirus, allowing researchers to study its genetic structure and potential targets for treatment. The browser's features enable zooming in and out of the genome, annotation, and collaboration tools for global research.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·DateFeb 7, 2020

Artificial intelligence can analyze myoclonus severity from video footage

Researchers developed an algorithm using deep convolutional neural networks to analyze myoclonus severity from video footage. The method successfully quantified myoclonic jerks in EPM1 patients, correlating well with clinical evaluations and detecting small-amplitude and high-frequency jerks.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalSeizure·DateFeb 7, 2020

St. Jude's scientist receives ACGT grant for sarcoma gene therapy

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital are exploring genetically engineered immune cells to attack pediatric sarcoma using a new ACGT grant. The approach aims to target not only cancer cells but also blood vessels supporting tumor growth, offering a promising new treatment for children with solid tumors.

SourceAlliance for Cancer Gene Therapy·DateFeb 7, 2020

New platform for composing genetic programs in mammalian cells

A new synthetic biology toolkit called COMET allows researchers to design and tune gene expression programs in mammalian cells with unprecedented precision. This breakthrough could lead to the development of novel cell-based therapies for cancer and other challenging diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 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.

Plugging into a 6G future with users at the center

Researchers are exploring a human-centric approach for 6G communications, emphasizing the need for secure, affordable, and accessible networks that protect users' mental and physical health. The technology will also require innovative solutions such as decentralized blockchain networks and artificial intelligence to enhance performance.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 7, 2020

Designer proteins

Researchers are now designing new proteins from scratch with specific functions using computational methods, enabling the creation of novel structures and properties. This breakthrough has significant implications for fields such as vaccine design, targeted drug delivery, and 'smart' therapeutics.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2020

Cancer vaccine could boost the effectiveness of immunotherapy

A new study creates personalized cancer vaccines that amplify the effects of immunotherapy, curing mice with treatment-resistant tumors. Researchers used a molecule called APOBEC3B to drive rapid genetic changes in cancer cells, creating unique signatures vulnerable to immune checkpoint blockade.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 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.

Startup incubator aims to spur life-saving innovations

The Center for Advancing Point of Care Technologies aims to improve quality of life and reduce hospital time for patients with these conditions. Innovations supported by CAPCaT include devices and technologies that help manage hypertension, promote mindfulness and support holistic disease management.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateFeb 7, 2020

Protein closely linked to commonest cause of blindness

A study published in Nature Communications reveals a major link between protein FHR4 and age-related macular degeneration, affecting 1.5 million people in the UK alone. The findings show that higher levels of FHR4 in the blood increase the risk of AMD by activating part of the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020

No clear path for golden rice to reach consumers

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis reveals that many families at risk for Vitamin A deficiency can't grow Golden Rice, while commercial farmers won't plant it due to its breeding into existing lowland rice varieties.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalTechnology in Society·DateFeb 7, 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.

Simple, solar-powered water desalination

The system uses multiple layers of flat solar evaporators and condensers to harness sunlight and produce fresh potable water. It achieves an overall efficiency of 385 percent, surpassing previous records by two times.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 7, 2020

Menopause timing hard to determine in every third woman

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that menopausal age is unclear for many women, particularly those using hormonal birth control. Researchers found that after 1992, the number of women still menstruating decreased, leaving uncertainty in determining exact menopausal ages.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalMenopause·DateFeb 7, 2020

Fighting against multi-resistant bacteria

A team from JMU will investigate new antibiotics that can be used to treat specific types of bacteria, using digital methods for designing RNA antibiotics. The aim is to create a powerful digital platform for the future application of RNA-based antibiotics against various bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateFeb 7, 2020

Combined drug treatment for lung cancer and secondary tumors

Researchers discovered that combining alectinib with EGFR-inhibitors prevents CNS metastasis progression in mouse model. This combination treatment overcomes alectinib resistance, offering potential novel therapies for NSCLC and secondary cancers.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 7, 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.

Epigenetics: Inheritance of epigenetic markers

Researchers uncover complex mechanisms controlling epigenetic modifications on histones after cell division. The study provides deeper insights into the inheritance of epigenetic marks and has implications for understanding cellular differentiation and tumor development.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 7, 2020

Mindfulness helps obese children lose weight

A study published in Endocrine Connections found that mindfulness-based therapy can lead to greater weight loss and reduced stress in obese children compared to a calorie-restricted diet alone. The therapy was found to counteract the negative effects of anxiety on weight loss.

SourceSociety for Endocrinology·JournalEndocrine Connections·DateFeb 7, 2020

New progress in turbulent combustion modeling: Filtered flamelet model

Researchers have developed a new filtered flamelet model for predicting turbulent combustion, reducing uncertainty by using filtered quantities instead of unfiltered ones. The model demonstrates promising performance and agrees well with experimental data, paving the way for further improvement and case tests.

SourceScience China Press·DateFeb 7, 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.

The complex effects of colonial rule in Indonesia

A study by MIT economists found that areas in Indonesia where Dutch colonial rulers built a huge sugar-producing industry in the 1800s remain more economically productive today. The research shows that villages with Dutch-built sugar-processing factories have greater economic activity, manufacturing, and higher local education levels c...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateFeb 7, 2020

Silver sawtooth creates valley-coherent light for nanophotonics

Scientists have created valley-coherent photoluminescence in tungsten disulfide flakes using a silver sawtooth nanoslit array. The results achieve coherent and polarized light at room temperature, paving the way for integrated nanophotonics.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020

More people and fewer wild fish lead to an omega-3 supply gap

A new study reveals that 70% of the world's population lacks sufficient omega-3 fatty acids, primarily EPA and DHA, found in fish and seafood. The researchers suggest optimizing existing sources, such as improved fisheries management and recycling of by-products, to boost supplies.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Food·DateFeb 7, 2020

Mapping the future direction for bioprinting research

The bioprinting research roadmap identifies key areas of progress and development, including advancements in bioinks, 3D printing processes, and crosslinking techniques. The report also highlights the potential for bioprinting to create complex biological models and therapeutic products.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateFeb 7, 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.

Mystery of marine recycling squad solved

Researchers have solved the mystery of marine nitrogen cycling, discovering that abundant nitrite oxidizing bacteria, Nitrospinae, are more active and efficient than previously thought. This reveals a key to their low abundance despite being crucial in the process.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020

New details on how a viral protein puts the brakes on virus replication

Researchers at Colorado State University have discovered how a viral protein regulates genome replication in viruses like West Nile and Zika. The study found that the protein acts as a brake during unwinding, and mutations can affect replication efficiency.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 7, 2020

Family dynamics may influence suicidal thoughts in children

Research from Washington University in St. Louis reveals that suicidal thoughts in children as young as 9 and 10 years old, with family conflict and parental monitoring being key factors, contrary to the long-held belief that such thoughts only arise in adolescence.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 7, 2020

Microplastics are new homes for microbes in the Caribbean

Marine bacteria colonize microplastics, using them as artificial reefs, while some diatoms exhibit a preference for specific plastic types. Microplastics may serve as vehicles for toxic organisms, affecting marine life.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateFeb 7, 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.

Mediterranean sea urchins are more vulnerable than previously thought

A recent study reveals that Mediterranean sea urchin populations are more genetically isolated than previously thought, with strong selection pressure on temperature adaptation. The analysis of genetic distribution suggests a progressive adaptation from west to east, highlighting the impact of global warming and geographical barriers.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateFeb 7, 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.

A new learning model to enhance citizen participation

A new learning model, Deliberative Walks, combines citizens' juries and development walks to engage citizens in urban planning. The method aims to collect all opinions, not just expert views, and promotes inclusive discussions, leading to increased civic engagement and understanding of participatory democracy.

SourceAbo Akademi University·JournalEuropean Political Science·DateFeb 6, 2020

Resources and gender competence are needed for science equality measures to be effective

A European research project highlights the need for more resources and greater gender competence to make science equality measures effective. The study analyzed 19 interventions in six countries, including Spain, and found that Spanish institutions have one of the most advanced legislative frameworks but lack sufficient resources.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalEvaluation and Program Planning·DateFeb 6, 2020