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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 19


Page 19 of 47

Insight into toddlers' awareness of their own uncertainty

A new study from the University of California, Davis, shows that toddlers may experience and deal with uncertainty in decision making like older children and adults. Toddlers gather information before making decisions, taking extra time on difficult trials, and exhibiting behaviors that suggest they can respond to uncertain situations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJul 20, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Better wastewater treatment? It's a wrap

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new strategy, 'wrap, trap and zap,' to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria in wastewater treatment plants. The graphene-wrapped nanospheres kill bacteria by producing reactive oxygen species, degrading antibiotic-resistant genes and minimizing their release into the environment.

SourceRice University·JournalWater Research·DateJul 20, 2020

NIH study shows highly reproducible sex differences in aspects of human brain anatomy

A NIH study found consistent sex-based differences in cortical volume across 2,000 brain scans, which correspond with patterns of sex-chromosome gene expression. These findings suggest that genetic mechanisms, including those on the X and Y sex chromosomes, may influence sex differences in brain anatomy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Portable DNA device can detect tree pests in under two hours

A new portable DNA detection method can identify tree pests and pathogens like the Asian gypsy moth and sudden oak death pathogen in under two hours. The device uses PCR testing to analyze tiny amounts of DNA and has been tested on multiple destructive invasive species.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 20, 2020

Geophysics: A first for a unique instrument

A team of geophysicists used the ROMY ring laser to measure the Earth's rotational velocity and axis orientation, achieving the most precise ground-based measurements yet. The instrument detected minute alterations in the Earth's rotation caused by ocean currents, ice mass shifts, and seismic events.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 20, 2020

Marine microorganisms: How to survive below the seafloor

Researchers found that certain species of foraminifera can survive and thrive in anoxic environments with high levels of toxic hydrogen sulfide. The organisms exploit soluble organic material as a source of carbon and energy, playing a crucial role in anaerobic nutrient cycles.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJul 20, 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.

Traditional PTSD therapy doesn't trigger drug relapse

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have demonstrated that behavior therapy exposing people to memories of their trauma does not cause relapses of opioid or other drug use. Following the first therapy session, PTSD severity and emotional problems decrease significantly.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateJul 20, 2020

A plot twist in pharmaceuticals: Single nanoparticles could pave the way for medicines on demand

Physicists at the University of Bath have accurately measured and characterised a single, twisted nanoparticle using a new method, taking them closer to producing medicines on demand. The discovery could lead to mini-labs that can mix substances in a completely new way, producing pharmaceuticals from minute droplets of active ingredients.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 20, 2020

Older adults who can really smell the roses may face lower likelihood of dementia

A UCSF study found that older adults with retained senses of hearing, vision, and touch have half the risk of developing dementia compared to those with marked sensory decline. The study tracked over 1,800 participants in their seventies for up to 10 years, revealing a stronger association between olfaction and lower dementia risk.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateJul 20, 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.

Scientists discover volcanoes on Venus are still active

Researchers at the University of Maryland have discovered 37 recently active volcanic structures on Venus, suggesting the planet's interior is still churning. The study provides evidence that Venus is no longer a dormant planet and may hold clues to its geological development.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 20, 2020

Media tip sheet: Going high-tech in ecology

Researchers use cameras, drones, geolocators, and sensors to track wildlife and greenhouse gas emissions. Computing advances help analyze terabytes of data, enabling ecologists to scale up ecological research and address environmental challenges.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateJul 20, 2020

Exhaled biomarkers can reveal lung disease

Researchers developed a system to monitor pneumonia and genetic diseases by analyzing breath exhaled by patients, revealing a new potential diagnostic tool. The technology uses specialized nanoparticles that release gases when proteases in the body cleave them, allowing for rapid detection of lung health.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 20, 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.

Shells and grapefruits inspire first manufactured non-cuttable material

Researchers develop Proteus, a lightweight material that turns back the force of cutting tools upon itself, making it resistant to angle grinders, drills, and high-pressure water jets. The unique structure of ceramic spheres encased in cellular aluminium creates an interlocking, vibrational connection that repulses any attack.

SourceDurham University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 20, 2020

Oxygen breathes new life into solar cell research

Researchers have successfully developed a method to 'upconvert' low energy light into visible light using oxygen, enabling it to be captured by solar cells. This breakthrough has the potential to increase the efficiency of solar cells and expand their sensitivity range.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 20, 2020

USTC finds ultimate precision limit of multi-parameter quantum magnetometry

Researchers from USTC obtained the ultimate precision for estimating all three components of a magnetic field with entangled probe states under the parallel scheme. They found that tradeoff comes from incompatibility of optimal probe states and presented an approach to quantify tradeoff.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 20, 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.

Tidal variation of total suspended solids over the Yangtze bank

Researchers used GOCI to study high-resolution spatial distribution and tidal variation of suspended sediment over the Yangtze Bank, revealing a tongue-shaped structure and importance of topography in tidal-induced mixing. The study enhances understanding of short-term changes to TSS in Yellow and East China Seas.

SourceScience China Press·DateJul 20, 2020

NASA analyzes new eastern Pacific Ocean Tropical Depression 7E

Tropical Depression 7E formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean near Mexico's Baja California Peninsula and is expected to track over cool waters, weakening it. NASA's Terra satellite detected strong storms with cold cloud top temperatures, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 20, 2020

Immunotherapy safe for patients with COVID-19, cancer

Preliminary data suggests that immunotherapy won't worsen complications in patients with both conditions. Researchers found that an anti-diabetic drug metformin can reduce protein production by immune cells, offering a potential treatment option for COVID-19 complications.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateJul 20, 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.

Powerful human-like hands create safer human-robotics interactions

A team of Michigan State University engineers has designed a soft-hard hybrid flexible gripper that can generate larger grasping forces than traditional pure soft hands. The new research, published in Soft Robotics, aims to create safer human-robotics interactions for tasks such as fruit picking and medical care.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSoft Robotics·DateJul 20, 2020

High school athletes require longer recovery following concussions

A recent study published in Orthopedics found that high school athletes require at least one month of recovery following a concussion. The study analyzed data from 357 adolescents who sustained one or more concussions and found that those with multiple concussions required longer recovery times, up to 30 days.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalOrthopedics·DateJul 20, 2020

Argonne's pivotal research discovers practices, technologies key to sustainable farming

A recent study by Argonne National Laboratory quantified how farms can reduce emissions by changing their practices and adopting novel technologies. Sustainable farming professionals can implement lower carbon footprint practices, such as conservation tillage and cover crops, to improve farm efficiency and help the environment.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 20, 2020

Assaying latent HIV proviruses

A new assay detects intact HIV latent proviruses at higher frequencies than previous methods, revealing a significant amount of intact virus in infected individuals; this finding is crucial for developing an HIV cure. The study provides a benchmark for assessing persistent proviral DNA and its composition.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020
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.

UCI receives record $529 million in research funding for fiscal 2019-20

UCI researchers received the most funding in campus history, with a 20% increase over last year, thanks to strong support from federal and state agencies, leading foundations, and companies. This milestone accelerates UCI's ascent as a world-class research university, with notable boosts in biomedical research and data privacy.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateJul 20, 2020

Socio-economic status predicts UK boys' development of essential thinking skills

A UK study found that British boys' executive functions are heavily influenced by their socio-economic status, while those from wealthier families performed better in tests. In contrast, girls and children from Hong Kong and mainland China outperformed their peers despite lower socio-economic backgrounds.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJul 20, 2020

SLAC's upgraded X-ray laser facility produces first light

The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory has successfully produced its first X-ray beam using the upgraded LCLS-II facility, demonstrating significant advancements in X-ray technology. The new undulators offer dramatic new capabilities, including precise control of X-ray beams and unprecedented repetition rates.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateJul 20, 2020

A mechanical way to stimulate neurons

Scientists have created magnetic nanodiscs that can detect and respond to mechanical forces, offering a new method for studying neural responses and potentially leading to new therapeutic treatments. The discovery could provide a more precise and non-invasive alternative to existing neurostimulation techniques.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 20, 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.

Conflicting theories about peace

A study of 500 Jewish-Israelis and 500 Palestinians reveals differing lay theories about peace, influencing conflict resolution. Peace is associated with war termination for both groups, but with different underlying values.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

How smart, ultrathin nanosheets go fishing for proteins

Researchers developed ultrathin 'smart nanosheets' that can capture protein complexes from mixtures, enabling faster and more accurate analysis with electron microscopy. This innovation can lead to better understanding of diseases and treatment with drugs.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 20, 2020

New research reveals antifungal symbiotic peptide in legume

A team of scientists at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center has identified a sub-class of peptides in legumes that inhibit the growth of gray mold fungus. The peptides, known as NCR044, work by concentrating in the nucleolus and targeting fungal spores and germlings.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

Study shows genetic markers are useful in predicting osteoporotic fracture risk

A new study published in PLOS Medicine shows that genetic pre-screening can reduce the number of screening tests needed to identify individuals at risk for osteoporotic fractures by up to 41 percent. This could lead to cost savings and more efficient screening programs.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 20, 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.

3D hand-sensing wristband signals future of wearable tech

Researchers from Cornell University and the University of Wisconsin, Madison, have developed a wrist-mounted device called FingerTrak that continuously tracks the entire human hand in 3D using thermal cameras. The technology has potential applications in sign language translation, virtual reality, mobile health, and human-robot interac...

SourceCornell University·DateJul 20, 2020

Reduced dose of prasugrel associated with reduced risk for bleeding in low-weight or elderly patient

A reduced dose of prasugrel was found to be as effective as a standard dose of ticagrelor in reducing the risk of bleeding without increasing it, particularly in elderly or low-weight patients with acute coronary syndrome. This finding is based on a randomized trial that assessed efficacy and safety in nearly 4,000 patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 20, 2020

If it's big enough and leafy enough the birds will come

A new study from Cornell University highlights the importance of urban green space and tree canopy for supporting diverse bird populations. The research found that increasing green space by 50% results in an 11.5% increase in annual species diversity.

SourceCornell University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateJul 20, 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.

Ultracold mystery: Solved

Scientists cooled potassium-rubidium molecules to near absolute zero, observing an intermediate complex that lived for 360 nanoseconds. The team found that laser light was forcing the molecules off their reaction path, leading to loss.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 20, 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.

The real reason behind goosebumps

Researchers found that the sympathetic nerve connects to hair follicle stem cells, bridging the gap between nervous system control and hair regeneration. The muscle facilitates this connection, allowing the nerve to directly regulate stem cell behavior and promote new hair growth in response to temperature changes.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell·DateJul 20, 2020

Researchers identify possible drug target for prostate cancer

BRD4 protein regulates key proteins contributing to prostate cancer progression, suggesting new therapeutic target. Current treatments for castration-resistant prostate cancer are limited and focus on suppressing tumor cells' reliance on androgen receptor signaling.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateJul 20, 2020

Cell death in porpoises caused by environmental pollutants

Researchers isolated fibroblast cells from a stranded finless porpoise to predict the threat of environmental pollutants to its population. The study found that pollutants like PCBs and DDTs induce cell death and can cause cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and reduced cell viability.

SourceEhime University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 20, 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.

Immune system adaptations in cavefish may provide autoimmune disease insight

Researchers studied cavefish and surface fish for clues on immune system adaptations. The study found that cavefish have a more sensitive innate immune system but lower levels of inflammation due to their unique environment. This could provide insights into human autoimmune diseases like Type 1 diabetes.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 20, 2020

Climate scientists increasingly ignore ecological role of indigenous peoples

A Penn State researcher challenges the prevailing view that indigenous peoples' fires had a minor ecological impact. Instead, Abrams argues that indigenous peoples played a significant role in managing forests through frequent, low-intensity fires. This management approach allowed for extensive agriculture and supported wildlife habitats.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 20, 2020

Simple test helps to predict and prevent falls

Scientists have developed a simple clinical test, the 'enhanced paper grip test,' to assess lower limb strength and predict falls. The test shows reliability and validity in detecting muscle weakness in patients with diabetes.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalGait & Posture·DateJul 20, 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.

Music on the brain

Researchers found that trained musicians showed greater powers of rhythmic prediction compared to nonmusicians, with subtle differences between those trained in Japanese or Western classical music. The study also reveals that different cultural upbringings can have a tangible effect on brain development.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJul 20, 2020

Through the nanoscale looking glass -- determining boson peak frequency in ultra-thin alumina

The study used neutron spectroscopy to measure lattice vibrations in ultra-thin alumina particles, confirming theoretical predictions. The findings have implications for controlling heat transfer through ultra-thin materials, potentially benefiting electronics and future spacecraft designs.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJul 20, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that older patients and those with coexisting diseases were more likely to die from COVID-19. The 30-day cumulative mortality rate was 24.4% among hospitalized patients, with shortness of breath being the most prevalent symptom among those who died.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 20, 2020