Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 35


Page 35 of 47

Access to nature requires attention when addressing community health needs

A new study highlights the importance of access to nature in addressing community health needs, citing benefits to physical, mental, and social health. Researchers recommend incorporating assessments of nature access into patient encounters and refer patients to community groups increasing green areas.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 9, 2020
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.

Cosmic cataclysm allows precise test of general relativity

The study confirms that the speed of light is constant in vacuum, as predicted by Einstein's general relativity theory. No energy-dependent time delay was detected in the arrival times of gamma rays from a high-energy gamma-ray burst, supporting GR. Strong constraints on the quantum gravity energy scale were also set.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 9, 2020

Looking at linkers helps to join the dots

Researchers discovered a phase transition in quantum dot films, where conductivity increases when linker molecules replace long capping molecules. This breakthrough could lead to better solar panels and digital displays.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJul 9, 2020

Amygdala changes in male patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

Researchers at Kumamoto University found that DNA methylation in the serotonin transporter gene is inversely correlated with amygdala volume in male patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The study suggests a potential biomarker for onset prediction, diagnosis, and therapeutic effects.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalSchizophrenia Bulletin·DateJul 9, 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.

Brookhaven and Forge Nano to mature noble gas-trapping technology

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed nanocages to trap noble gases, including xenon and krypton, which can improve nuclear reactor efficiency and reduce radioactive waste. The team plans to scale up the production of these materials with partner Forge Nano.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateJul 9, 2020

Dissecting fruit flies' varying responses to life-extension diet

A study of fruit flies has found that analyzing small molecules involved in cell metabolism can help understand how calorie-restricted diets affect aging and lifespan. The research identified several genes linked to changes in metabolite levels, shedding light on the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and diet.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 9, 2020

Study of giant ant heads using simple models may aid bio-inspired designs

Researchers created a basic model of an ant body using ellipsoids to understand center of balance and evolution among body segments. The study reveals how ants maintain balance despite large head sizes, with implications for bio-inspired machine design.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalIntegrative and Comparative Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Study says inhalers ok to use amid COVID-19 concerns

Researchers at University of Huddersfield found that the benefits of using inhalers and nebulisers containing steroids outweigh the risks despite COVID-19 concerns. The study confirms that patients with asthma or COPD can continue using their regular medicines, including steroids.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalRespiratory Medicine·DateJul 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sea surface temperature has a big impact on coral outplant survival

Researchers from Arizona State University found that coral outplant survival drops below 50% if sea surface temperatures exceed 30.5 degrees Celsius, highlighting the importance of considering temperature conditions in reef restoration efforts.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 9, 2020

Engineering: Reducing noise transmitted through an open window

A new device reduces perceived loudness of urban noises by up to half through sound wave cancellation. The device, consisting of 24 speakers and a sensor, is tested in a replica room with various noise sources, demonstrating up to a 10 decibel reduction.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2020

Rochester community initiative increases teenage use of effective contraception

A University of Rochester Medical Center partnership increased long-acting reversible contraception adoption among adolescents in Rochester by 20 times compared to the national average. The Hoekelman Center's community outreach initiative empowered adults to educate teens, providing accurate information and resources.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 9, 2020

Revealing winners & losers in projected future climates

Research reveals subtropical species are winners in future climates due to their ability to adapt to rising temperatures, while temperate species are most vulnerable. The study provides a catalogue of genes that informs about the adaptive capacity to climate change.

SourceFlinders University·DateJul 9, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

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.

X-ray scattering shines light on protein folding

A study by KAIST researchers used X-ray scattering to track protein folding, revealing multiple forms of an unfolded protein follow different pathways and timelines. The findings could improve computer simulations, paving the way for better disease studies and drug development.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 9, 2020

Study sheds light on bushfires' microclimate impact

Researchers monitored air temperature, humidity, and particulate matter pollution during the 2019-20 Australian bushfires. The study found specific combinations of air temperature and relative humidity led to higher pollutant accumulation, highlighting the importance of understanding microclimatic impacts on urban areas.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·DateJul 9, 2020

Engineers design a reusable, silicone rubber face mask

A new, reusable face mask made of durable silicone rubber and an N95 filter has been designed to be easily sterilized and used many times. The team tested various sterilization methods and found that the material remained undamaged after autoclaving, oven treatment, or soaking in bleach and isopropyl alcohol.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 9, 2020

Comparing stress cardiomyopathy before, during COVID-19 pandemic

This observational study compared patients with acute coronary syndrome presenting during and before the COVID-19 pandemic to investigate stress cardiomyopathy incidence. Stress cardiomyopathy was found to be more prevalent during the pandemic, suggesting a potential impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 9, 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.

Cycad stem cuttings need wound sealants for successful propagation

A study by the University of Guam found that cycad stem cuttings require wound sealants to survive and propagate. The researchers discovered that petroleum jelly, lanolin paste, honeycomb wax, and even modelling clay can effectively cover wounds and retain hydration.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalTropical Conservation Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Discovery reveals how plants make cellulose for strength and growth

Researchers at the University of Virginia have discovered how plants make cellulose, a key component of cell walls. Cellulose is created through molecular machinery that produces three chains, which are then transported to the cell surface and assembled into microfibrils for added strength.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

A new role for a tiny linker in transmembrane ion channels

A team of researchers has discovered a new role for a tiny linker in regulating transmembrane ion channels, which could lead to new targets for drugs and treatment in conditions such as hypertension and autism. The study found that the linker plays a more active sensing role than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJul 9, 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.

Contracting COVID-19, lifestyle and social connections may play a role

Research highlights the link between unhealthy lifestyle habits, emotional stressors, and increased risk of respiratory infections. Social isolation, loneliness, and interpersonal conflicts are also major contributors to the spread of COVID-19.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Bats offer clues to treating COVID-19

Researchers found that bats' ability to control inflammation may hold clues to developing new treatments for diseases in humans. By understanding the mechanisms underlying bats' unique abilities, scientists may be able to develop therapies to fight diseases like COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 9, 2020

Scientists trace the origin of our teeth from the most primitive jawed fish

Researchers use advanced X-ray technology to study ancient fish fossils, revealing modern features and challenging previous assumptions about tooth evolution. The findings suggest that the ancestors of modern vertebrates retained a common dental structure, with new teeth added on the inside, contrary to long-held perceptions.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Breast cancer cells can reprogram immune cells to assist in metastasis

Researchers discovered that metastatic breast cancer cells can reprogram natural killer (NK) cells to stop killing cancer cells and instead aid in metastasis. This work also identifies new immunotherapy strategies to reverse this reprogramming process, offering a potential way to prevent or reduce breast cancer mortality.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Study sheds light on how cancer spreads in blood

Researchers analyzed extracellular vesicles in human prostate cancer cells to understand how cancer spreads. The findings suggest a new approach to diagnose malignancies without invasive biopsies.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·DateJul 9, 2020

Gene yields insights into the causes of neurodegeneration

Researchers have identified a gene, TMEM106B, as a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. The study found that a mutation in this gene disrupts the formation of myelin sheaths around nerve fibers, leading to neurological defects.

SourceCornell University·JournalBrain·DateJul 9, 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.

Major cause of rare genetic mitochondrial disease identified

A cutting-edge study has identified ATAD3 as the most common cause of lethal mitochondrial disease in children dying soon after birth. The study found that spontaneous gene alterations resulted in fatal heart failure, but parents have a low risk of passing the disease to their next child.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalMed·DateJul 9, 2020

A new look at deep-sea microbes

Researchers found that microbes inside hydrocarbon seeps have less efficient, fast-growing lifestyles while those outside have slower but more efficient lives. This difference in lifestyle could mirror how microbes behave higher in the water column.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 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.

When child care meets aged care, worlds align

A new ageing well initiative aims to bring together children with older people in a structured way, delivering health and wellbeing benefits for all. The Child Care in Aged Care project promotes meaningful community connections and challenges stereotypes through intergenerational activities.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateJul 9, 2020

Advanced technology sheds new light on evolution of teeth

Researchers used synchrotron microtomography to visualize ancient fossils and found that acanthothoracid teeth were attached to jaw-bones like modern fish and land animals. This discovery challenges the common perception that sharks are primitive living vertebrates.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 2020

Breast cancer cells turn killer immune cells into allies

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine discovered that breast cancer cells can alter the function of NK cells to facilitate their spread. The study suggests preventing this reprogramming might stop breast cancer from metastasizing, a major cause of death in breast cancer patients.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 9, 2020

Fishing for a theory of emergent behavior

The study used advanced metrics from information theory to describe the collective behavior of small schools of ayu fish, finding that groups of three or more exhibited noticeably different dynamics. This work may aid in developing cooperative biomimetic swarming robots and help understand fundamental problems in complexity theory.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEntropy·DateJul 9, 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.

Surprisingly many peculiar long introns found in brain genes

A study of human and mouse genes reveals a link between intron phase and length, shedding light on the functioning of brain cells. Long phase 1 introns found in genes involved in nerve impulse transmission may play a key role in this process.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2020

Challenges in evaluating SARS-CoV-2 vaccines

Researchers must consider factors like population immunity, social distancing, and baseline immunity when evaluating vaccine efficacy. Adequate sample sizes are needed to demonstrate vaccine effectiveness, which may be influenced by COVID-19 severity in vaccinated individuals.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 9, 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.

Extreme rainfall events cause top-heavy aquatic food webs

Researchers replicated extreme rainfall events in Central and South America's neotropics, finding top-heavy food webs with predators when rainfall varied daily. This altered the trophic structure of bromeliad tanks, affecting energy flow through ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 9, 2020

Fair justice systems need open data access

A Northwestern University-led team has developed an AI-powered platform to make federal court records publicly available, enabling researchers to analyze and evaluate the justice system. The tool aims to provide quantitative feedback to fix variations in judges' decisions on fee waivers, ultimately promoting fair access to justice.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateJul 9, 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.

Our itch to share helps spread COVID-19 misinformation

A study by MIT scholars reveals that social media sharing interferes with assessing news accuracy, but participants who think critically or have scientific knowledge share fewer false headlines. Rating non-Covid-19 headlines before sharing Covid-19 news increases accuracy significantly.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 9, 2020

Expansion stress enhances growth and migration of breast cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that biomechanical forces in the tumor microenvironment enhance breast cancer cell growth, invasion, and metastasis. The study also discovered that exosome production plays a key role in promoting aggressive tumor growth and inducing immune suppression.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateJul 9, 2020

First Alaskan juvenile predator fossil adds insight to dino migration

A new Alaskan fossil discovery of a juvenile dromaeosaurid jaw bone has significant implications for the understanding of Cretaceous period dinosaurs. The study, published in PLOS ONE, supports the theory that some Arctic dinosaurs did not migrate with the seasons but were year-round residents.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 8, 2020