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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 44


Page 44 of 47

Research reflects how AI sees through the looking glass

Researchers at Cornell University used AI to investigate how reflection changes images, discovering clues like facial features and beards that can differentiate originals from reflections. The study has implications for training machine learning models and detecting faked images.

SourceCornell University·DateJul 2, 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.

Elderly people's response to COVID-19 not as expected

A study examining elderly people's attitudes and compliance with COVID-19 preventative measures found that older adults are not more willing to isolate or wear masks, despite being most vulnerable to severe illness. However, they are more likely to avoid public transportation and small gatherings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2020

Targeting deep areas of the skeletal muscles effectively alleviates postoperative pain

The NETOIMS method effectively alleviates postoperative pain by inserting a needle in the muscle and electrically eliciting twitch responses, targeting strained muscle fibers. This technique results in improved circulation, relaxing the muscle and reducing postoperative complications after open abdominal surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJul 2, 2020

Unlocking the key to an effective vaccine

A recent study by Monash University suggests that components within vaccines can play a major role in aiding the lifespan of individual plasma cells. This understanding could lead to the development of more effective vaccines.

SourceMonash University·JournalImmunological Reviews·DateJul 2, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Why are the offspring of older mothers less fit to live long and prosper?

A new study reveals that offspring of older mothers are less fit to survive and reproduce, affecting their health, lifespan, and fertility in humans and other species. Mathematical modeling suggests a decline in natural selection pressure with maternal age may contribute to the persistence of this phenomenon.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2020

Grassroots dog vaccinations can help stop rabies, but not alone

A study in Kenya found that grassroots dog vaccination campaigns can prevent rabies deaths, but to eliminate the disease, larger efforts are required. The efforts involved vaccinating over 13,000 dogs and raising awareness among children about rabies prevention.

SourceField Museum·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJul 2, 2020

New sequencing technology will help scientists decipher disease mechanisms

A new sequencing technology will help scientists better understand the mechanisms of rare nucleotides thought to play an important role in the progression of some diseases. These modified nucleotides are crucial additions to the genetic code, but their detection is difficult and comes with high error rates.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateJul 2, 2020

New candidate for raw material synthesis through gene transfer

Scientists at KIT have successfully introduced genetic information into a multicellular cyanobacterium, Phormidium lacuna, using natural transformation. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for basic research and biotechnical applications, including the synthesis of biofuels like ethanol and hydrogen.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 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.

Moss protein corrects genetic defects of other plants

Researchers from the University of Bonn successfully transferred a moss protein into a flowering plant, demonstrating its ability to correct genetic errors. This breakthrough could contribute to the development of more efficient crops and provide insights into plant energy metabolism.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 2, 2020

Spintronics: Faster data processing through ultrashort electric pulses

Researchers at MLU and Lanzhou University developed a simple concept for improved magnetic-based data processing using ultrashort electric pulses in the terahertz range. This enables fast and energy-efficient data storage with billions of read and write operations per second.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateJul 2, 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.

Fluorine enables separation-free 'chiral chromatographic analysis'

Researchers developed a platform for rapid chiral analysis, producing chromatogram-like output without separation. The method effectively resolved a wide range of chiral molecules, including pharmaceuticals and biomolecules.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJul 2, 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.

Largest source of AATD stem cells collected

Researchers at Boston University and Boston Medical Center have assembled the largest repository of patient-derived stem cells from AATD patients. The cells can be used to study genetic diseases and potentially find new treatment approaches for AATD.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJul 2, 2020

Typhoon changed earthquake patterns

A typhoon-induced event altered the frequency and location of earthquakes in Taiwan by changing crustal stress levels. This study suggests that surface processes can trigger seismicity, highlighting a new connection between tectonics and external factors in earthquake hazard assessment.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 2, 2020

New algorithm for personalized models of human cardiac electrophysiology

Researchers proposed an algorithm to create patient-specific models describing electrical excitation of human heart cells. The model uses gene expression profiles to predict action potential in other patients. This could lead to personalized treatment and drug design for heart conditions.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 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.

Mothering in domestic violence: Protecting children behind closed doors

Researchers found that mothers engage in various protective behaviors to shield their children from domestic abuse, such as controlling the home environment and 'keeping the peace.' A strengths-based approach is essential for practitioners to recognize and support these efforts, rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes of motherhood.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalQualitative Social Work·DateJul 2, 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.

Algae as living biocatalysts for a green industry

Researchers discovered unicellular green algae with enzymes that can convert commercially viable substances without generating co-substrate, using photosynthesis. This breakthrough has the potential to create a greener industry by producing substances at mild temperatures and in water.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAlgal Research·DateJul 2, 2020

"Targeting peptide" discovery offers hope as new, highly effective anti-inflammatory

A collaboration between University of Toronto and National Jewish Health has yielded a new drug discovery that could combat inflammation and acute respiratory illnesses like COVID-19. The 'drug' is a combination of two naturally occurring peptides, TAT CARMIL1, which reduces collagen degradation by up to 43%.

SourceUniversity of Toronto - Faculty of Dentistry·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 2020

Marine alga from the Kiel Fjord discovered as a remedy against infections and skin cancer

The GEOMAR research group has successfully discovered a marine alga from the Kiel Fjord that inhibits pathogenic bacteria and kills melanoma-type skin cancer cells with low cytotoxicity. The researchers used bioinformatics methods and machine learning tools to accelerate the discovery process, reducing it from 3-4 years to months.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalMarine Drugs·DateJul 2, 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.

UCLA study pinpoints new function for histones

Researchers identified a new function for histones, enabling the transfer of electrons from one molecule to another, converting copper into a usable form for cells. This discovery refutes earlier theories and suggests histones played a crucial role in the evolution of eukaryotes, including humans, around 2 billion years ago.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2020

Antioxidant treatment in acute ischemic stroke may delay the onset of Alzheimer's dementia

Research suggests that antioxidant treatment after acute ischemic stroke could delay the onset of Alzheimer's dementia by reducing oxidative stress and promoting mitochondrial function. Studies have shown promising results with molecules like edaravone and nerinetide, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets·DateJul 2, 2020

Fans love musicians' personalities as much as their music

A new study found that listeners' musical preferences are driven by the similarity between their personality and that of famous musicians. The 'self-congruity effect of music' suggests that people prefer music from artists with similar public personas, which can evoke feelings of pride and belonging.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 2, 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.

The lightest shielding material in the world

Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology create a composite of cellulose nanofibers and silver nanowires, achieving impressive shielding effectiveness. The resulting aerogel is incredibly light, flexible, and durable, with high shielding capabilities against electromagnetic radiation.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 2, 2020

Carbon-loving materials designed to reduce industrial emissions

Researchers have developed a novel fluorinated gas membrane material that exceeds the Robeson upper limit, surpassing current bottlenecks in selectivity and permeability. This breakthrough enhances carbon-capture performance in real environments, offering a promising solution for reducing industrial carbon emissions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalChem·DateJul 2, 2020

Climate change threat to tropical plants

A study by UNSW researchers found that tropical plants are more at risk from climate change than previously thought, with over 20% predicted to face temperatures above their upper limit. This is because they are near their maximum seed germination temperatures, and even small temperature increases could push them over the edge.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJul 2, 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.

Spawning fish and embryos most vulnerable to climate's warming waters

A new study reveals that fish spawning and embryos are more susceptible to temperature changes than other life stages, with up to 60% of species at risk within a century. The findings highlight the critical importance of considering thermal bottlenecks across an organism's lifecycle in climate risk assessments.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2020

Putting zinc on bread wheat leaves

Researchers applied zinc foliar application to hard red spring wheat cultivars, increasing grain zinc concentration above the target level of 40 mg kg-1. The second application at flowering stage was necessary for this achievement, and price incentives are needed to motivate farmers to adopt biofortification.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateJul 2, 2020

How the body fights off urinary tract infections

Researchers discovered that uromodulin forms long filaments that envelop pathogens, neutralizing them and preventing infection. The findings offer pointers for developing new treatments and drugs to prevent urinary tract infections without antibiotics.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2020

Men more likely than women to be seen as brilliant

A new global study found that an unconscious stereotype links men to brilliance, hindering women's career advancement in prestigious fields. The research used the Implicit Association Test to measure implicit biases, revealing a strong association between brilliance and masculinity.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJul 2, 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.

Nitrous oxide may bring relief to veterans suffering from PTSD, new study suggests

A new pilot study found that three military veterans with PTSD experienced marked improvements in symptoms after inhaling a single dose of 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen. The effects, however, were not consistent across all patients, and further research is needed to determine the treatment's efficacy and optimal dosage.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateJul 2, 2020

Social media and radiology -- The good, the bad, and the ugly

The study highlights social media's benefits in Radiology, including educational content dissemination, professional networking, and collaboration. However, it also warns of challenges, such as maintaining patient privacy and avoiding e-professionalism.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalAcademic Radiology·DateJul 2, 2020

New method measures temperature within 3D objects

University of Wisconsin-Madison engineers developed a new technique to measure temperature beneath the surface of certain materials, called depth thermography. This method uses thermal radiation emitted by objects and sophisticated algorithms to infer temperature not just on the surface but also underneath.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalACS Photonics·DateJul 2, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Taiwan's universities share their experience in safely reopening colleges and universities, highlighting effective public health strategies. Immigrant physicians in the US face unique challenges due to visa status, affecting their families' health and safety.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 2, 2020

CSH corona traffic light: A tool to easily assess the situation

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub Vienna developed a traffic light system to show global coronavirus infection trends. The tool helps users assess safe travel destinations by analyzing confirmed cases per 10,000 inhabitants, providing insights into the risks of traveling to countries with varying levels of infection.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·DateJul 2, 2020

In mouse study, black raspberries show promise for reducing skin inflammation

A mouse study found that consuming black raspberries can reduce swelling caused by contact hypersensitivity, a condition that triggers redness and inflammation in the skin. The researchers believe that black raspberries modulate dendritic cells, which help regulate the immune system's response to allergens.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNutrients·DateJul 2, 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.