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Science News Archive January 2020 - Page 14


Page 14 of 40

A megalibrary of nanoparticles

Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to produce over 65,000 different types of nanoparticles, each containing up to six different materials. This breakthrough allows for the creation of complex particles with precise interfaces, opening up new possibilities for electrical and optical applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateJan 23, 2020

Jewel beetles' sparkle helps them hide in plain sight

Researchers found that jewel beetles' bright colors can act as a form of camouflage, outperforming dull-colored counterparts in detection avoidance. The ability to remain hidden became even more pronounced when the iridescent wing cases were placed against a glossy leaf background.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 23, 2020

Stressed-out dust is sharing antibiotic resistance genes

A Northwestern University study found that indoor dust bacteria can transfer antibiotic resistance genes, potentially making infections more difficult to treat. The researchers believe this could lead to the spread of resistant pathogens, highlighting the need for increased caution in managing indoor environments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 23, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Can a tiny invasive snail help save Latin American coffee?

Researchers found that the Asian tramp snail B. similaris consumes fungal pathogens causing coffee leaf rust, reducing their numbers by up to 30% on infected leaves. However, further studies are needed to understand potential tradeoffs and the snail's effect on other controlling factors.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEcology·DateJan 23, 2020

Will the future's super batteries be made of seawater?

Researchers are exploring seawater-based Na-ion batteries as a potential alternative to lithium ion batteries. A new study investigated electrode materials that increase voltage, capacity, and wattage. The development of these batteries could alleviate concerns around cobalt mining and reduce costs.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJan 23, 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.

Low/no calorie sweeteners can make a useful contribution to public health strategies

A new scientific report by Ashwell et al. suggests that low/no calorie sweeteners are safe, have no adverse effect on blood glucose regulation, and can help reduce net calorie intake. The experts agree that these sweeteners can be a useful contribution to public health strategies aimed at reducing obesity and diabetes risk.

SourceInternational Sweeteners Association (ISA)·JournalNutrition Research Reviews·DateJan 23, 2020

Oral hormone-blocking drug may help with heavy menstrual bleeding

A new oral pill, elagolix, has been shown to effectively reduce heavy menstrual bleeding in women with uterine fibroids. The study found that 80.4% of women treated with elagolix alone experienced a 50% reduction in bleeding, compared to 9.6% in the placebo group.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 23, 2020

Women with PCOS experience poor health and quality of life beyond reproductive years

A new study by The Endocrine Society reveals that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suffer from poor health and quality of life in their late forties, primarily due to ongoing mental health concerns. Women with PCOS have lower life satisfaction and poorer health compared to those without the condition.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020

Can I mix those chemicals? There's an app for that!

A new open-source computer program called ChemStor can find the safest way to store and dispose of reactive chemicals. The program adapts a computer science strategy to allocate resources for efficient processor use, allowing it to determine safe storage configurations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateJan 23, 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.

Portable device helps doctors diagnose sepsis faster

A new portable biosensor developed by researchers at EPFL's School of Engineering can rapidly detect sepsis biomarkers in a patient's bloodstream, slashing diagnosis time from several days to just a few minutes. The device uses plasmonics technology and achieves accuracy on par with gold-standard laboratory methods.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalSmall·DateJan 23, 2020

Special issue: Chemistry for Tomorrow's Earth

This special issue of Science explores safer and more sustainable chemicals to address environmental and health concerns. Reviews argue for rethinking chemistry and considering inherent properties in early stages of design.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 23, 2020

Engineered capillaries model traffic in tiny blood vessels

Researchers created 3D human capillaries to study how red blood cells navigate ultra-small blood vessels. Malaria-infected cells become stalled due to shape and motion changes, increasing risk of adherence and blockage.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 23, 2020

Study identifies top strategies for successful weight loss maintenance

A new Cal Poly study found that building healthy dietary, self-monitoring and psychological coping strategies are key to maintaining weight loss. People who reported losing an average of 50 pounds and keeping it off for over three years used more frequent strategies like setting daily food intake goals and recording what was eaten each...

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalObesity·DateJan 23, 2020

Sharp increase in Ningaloo whale shark injuries might be due to boat encounters

Researchers at the Australian Institute of Marine Science found that nearly one-fifth of Ningaloo whale sharks show major scarring or fin amputations. The number of injured animals has increased in recent years, with distinct scar patterns suggesting boat collisions as a primary cause.

SourceAustralian Institute of Marine Science·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateJan 23, 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.

Chinese tariff rate quota policy severely impacted US wheat exports

A new study from University of Illinois found that China's tariff quota administration significantly affected US grain exports, particularly for wheat. Wheat imports from the US could have been $324 million or 83% higher without restrictive policies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAgricultural Economics·DateJan 23, 2020

Keeping guns away from potential mass shooters

Researchers from Michigan State University found that 38% of known mass shooters had a history of domestic violence. The study highlights the need for better implementation of firearm restrictions to prevent mass shootings.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateJan 23, 2020

Feel the force: new 'smart' polymer glows brighter when stretched

Researchers created a stress-detecting polymer by incorporating copper complexes into polybutylacrylate, shining brighter when stretched. The copper complexes emit light at greater intensity, enabling the detection of small amounts of stress.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalChemical Communications·DateJan 23, 2020

Researchers uncover the genomics of health

Researchers have compiled a genome reference database of thousands of healthy older Australians, providing a powerful framework to identify new disease-causing gene variants. The database shows genetic changes associated with ageing, including shorter telomeres and less mitochondrial DNA, which may predict health outcomes for individuals.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 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.

Teens with obesity and PCOS have more 'unhealthy' bacteria

Research published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that teens with obesity and PCOS have an altered gut microbiome compared to those without the condition. This altered microbiome is associated with higher testosterone levels, metabolic complications, and other health risks.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020

Preventing metastasis by stopping cancer cells from making fat

Cancer cells store lipids in vesicles called lipid droplets, making them more invasive and prone to forming metastases. The researchers found that TGF-beta2 is the switch responsible for both lipid storage and aggressive cancer cell behavior.

SourceUniversité catholique de Louvain·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2020

Predicting the degradation behavior of advanced medical devices

The study suggests a fast and reliable method to determine the degradation behavior of complex biomacromolecules using Langmuir technique. The research paves the way for designing innovative, multifunctional polymers for regenerative medicine with improved performance in medical implants.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJan 23, 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.

Study results will inform immunization programs globally

The study found good protection against meningococcal disease in vaccinated individuals, but no overall reduction in bacterial carriage. The findings highlight the importance of individual vaccination and identify high-risk behaviors associated with bacterial transmission.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 22, 2020

The color of your clothing can impact wildlife

Researchers at Binghamton University found that wearing orange shirts resulted in more water anoles being seen per hour and a higher capture percentage. Contrary to expectations, green shirts were less effective than bright orange, highlighting the complexity of animal color perception.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalBiotropica·DateJan 22, 2020

Climate-friendly food choices protect the planet, promote health, reduce health costs

A study found that adopting a plant-based diet in New Zealand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 4-42% annually, improve population health, and save the healthcare system NZD $14 to $20 billion over time. The research also highlights the importance of reducing food waste and promoting climate-friendly eating patterns.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJan 22, 2020

Researchers regrow damaged nerves with polymer and protein

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have created a biodegradable nerve guide that can regenerate long sections of damaged nerves without stem cells or donor nerves. The technology has been tested in monkeys and shown promising results, including restored nerve conduction and replenished Schwann cells.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 22, 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.

Deep diving scientists discover bubbling CO2 hotspot

Researchers have discovered a unique CO2 hotspot in the ocean, with readings of up to 95,000 parts per million. The site, known as Soda Springs, is being studied for its potential to understand how coral reefs cope with climate change.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 22, 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.

Old molecule, new tricks

Researchers at UCSB have developed an electrochemical method for extracting uranium from solution, using carboranes as a key component. This technology enables efficient and reliable capture and release of uranium ions, with potential applications in nuclear waste reprocessing and seawater uranium extraction.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateJan 22, 2020

Traces of the European enlightenment found in the DNA of western sign languages

Researchers found that Western sign languages have DNA traces from 5 European locations, including Austrian, British, French, Spanish, and Swedish. The study used genetic techniques to analyze data from dozens of sign languages, revealing a clearer picture of their evolution and historical development.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 22, 2020

FSU Research: Despite less ozone pollution, not all plants benefit

Despite decreasing ozone concentrations in the air, plants' ozone uptake trends don't follow suit. FSU researchers tracked ozone uptake into plants over 10 years at 30 test sites and found that environmental factors like weather conditions have a greater impact on plant ozone dose than atmospheric ozone concentration.

SourceFlorida State University·DateJan 22, 2020
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.

Preventing, healing tooth decay with a bioactive peptide

Researchers developed a bioactive peptide that coats tooth surfaces to prevent cavities and heal existing ones. The peptide inhibits bacterial adhesion and promotes remineralization, offering a potential new strategy for treating tooth decay.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 22, 2020

First ancient DNA from West/Central Africa illuminates deep human past

The study reveals new insights into the origins of Bantu languages, previously unknown populations, and human migration patterns. The ancient DNA sequences from west and central Africa enhance our understanding of the deep ancestral relationships among populations in sub-Saharan Africa.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJan 22, 2020

Sustainability claims about rubber don't stick

A new study led by the University of Göttingen calls into question the sustainability claims made by large corporations like Michelin regarding rubber production. The researchers found that local villagers' reports indicated land-ownership, ecosystems, and biodiversity suffered due to deforestation and poor pay conditions.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Land Use Science·DateJan 22, 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.

Researchers trace coronavirus outbreak in China to snakes

A new study reveals that the 2019-nCoV coronavirus likely originated from a combination of a bat coronavirus and an unknown coronavirus, with recombination allowing cross-species transmission to humans via snakes. This finding highlights the importance of understanding viral origins for effective control of emerging outbreaks.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateJan 22, 2020

Hope for patients with a rare genetic condition linked to severe infections

A team of researchers created the first cellular model of chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), a rare genetic condition that causes severe infections. The study's findings suggest that restoring NADPH oxidase function in defective cells could help develop new and more effective treatment strategies.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 22, 2020

Reducing dangerous swelling in traumatic brain injury

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that injecting nanoparticles into the bloodstream can significantly reduce brain swelling and damage after a traumatic brain injury. The treatment may provide new hope for individuals with significant traumatic brain injuries, including young athletes and soldiers.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJan 22, 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.

Solving a biological puzzle: How stress causes gray hair

Researchers found that stress activates nerves that release norepinephrine, which causes premature depletion of pigment-producing cells. This leads to permanent damage and loss of stem cells, resulting in gray hair. The study advances understanding of stress impact on the body and paves way for new treatments.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJan 22, 2020

Physicists trap light in nanoresonators for record time

Researchers successfully trapped an electromagnetic wave in a gallium arsenide nanoresonator for a record-breaking time exceeding 200 periods of one wave oscillation. The study demonstrates the potential for efficient light frequency nanoconversion and applications in compact sensors, night vision devices, and optical data transmission.

SourceITMO University·JournalScience·DateJan 22, 2020

Male fertility after chemotherapy: New questions raised

A pilot study conducted by INRS researchers highlights the effect of chemotherapy on male fertility before and after puberty. The study found that all patients were at higher risk of infertility due to low sperm production, regardless of age at diagnosis.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 22, 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.

Study examines a new model for older adult wellness

A new model of community-based wellness called Person-centered Wellness Home (PCWH) helps patients manage chronic diseases and maintain wellness. The study found improvements in self-reported physical functioning and empowerment through personalized health records.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInnovation in Aging·DateJan 22, 2020

Earthquake catalog shows complex rupturing during 2019 ridgecrest sequence

A high-resolution catalog of earthquakes from the 2019 Ridgecrest sequence reveals complex rupturing and crosscutting fault structures. The catalog helps researchers understand the triggering and evolution of the sequence, shedding light on the physics and processes involved.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateJan 22, 2020

Carcasses important for plants and insects in the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve

A study published in PLOS ONE found that carcasses of dead deer have a positive effect on biodiversity in the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve. Plants near carcasses grew five times larger, attracting more insects and predators. The researchers call for relaxing regulations to allow dead large grazers to remain, benefiting other natu...

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 22, 2020

Coating helps electronics stay cool by sweating

Researchers have developed a coating that releases water vapor to dissipate heat from running devices, outperforming existing strategies in cooling efficiency. The coating uses metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and can absorb moisture from the air, providing effective cooling and quick recovery.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateJan 22, 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.