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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 5


Page 5 of 47

Social distancing varies by income in US

A study by University of California, Davis found that wealthier US communities became the least mobile, while poorer areas increased mobility, exacerbating the pandemic's impact. The research highlights the need for targeted emergency relief packages to address lower-income regions' unique challenges.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2020

Talbot helps ID muscle gene that, when altered, causes joint disease

A team of scientists identified a gene mutation that causes distal arthrogryposis (DA), a condition characterized by joint deformities and muscle loss. The MYLPF gene plays a crucial role in normal muscle development and function, and its mutations can lead to reduced muscle strength and degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 29, 2020

Dean of UT AgResearch honored with ASABE Award for Global Engagement

Hongwei Xin, UT AgResearch Dean, is recognized for his global leadership skills in animal production environment, welfare, and sustainability. He has published over 600 refereed journal articles and has worked on various initiatives to facilitate linkages between academics, research, and economic development.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateJul 29, 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.

A safer cell therapy harnesses patient T cells to fight multiple myeloma

A novel cell therapy using patient T cells has shown preliminary effectiveness in treating relapsed or treatment-resistant multiple myeloma. The treatment, which is safer than existing CAR T cells, improved survival rates and objective clinical responses in patients with active disease.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 29, 2020

Decline in US cardiac deaths slowing, while county-level disparities grow

A new study found that while overall US cardiac death rates declined between 1999 and 2017, the pace of decline slowed significantly since 2011. County-level disparities in premature cardiac deaths have grown, with out-of-hospital deaths increasing and socioeconomic factors playing a key role.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 29, 2020

Study provides new insight on colorectal cancer growth

A novel function of spermine synthase (SMS) has been identified as facilitating colorectal cancer growth, with excessive accumulation of spermidine having harmful effects on cell viability. Combined inhibition of SMS and MYC signaling induces cancer cell death and tumor regression.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 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.

Biphilic surfaces reduce defrosting times in heat exchangers

Researchers have developed biphilic surfaces that significantly improve defrosting efficiency on heat exchangers. The unique surface design enables the removal of frost and slush from superhydrophobic regions before complete melting, reducing cleaning time and energy consumption.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalMatter·DateJul 29, 2020

Study sheds light on the evolution of the earliest dinosaurs

The study reanalyzed fossils of Pisanosaurus and dated rocks from the Ischigualasto Formation, finding that Ornithiscians and Saurischians first appeared and diverged around the same time. The researchers also found that the period over which the formation was deposited overlaps with the Chinle Formation in North America.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 29, 2020

Reopening K-12 schools during COVID-19 pandemic

The article provides recommendations from a National Academies of Sciences report on reopening elementary and secondary schools, emphasizing partnerships with public health officials and transparent communication. The report aims to minimize risks and maximize benefits for students, staff, and communities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 29, 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.

A snapshot of melting Arctic sea ice during the summer of 2018

Researchers studied the decline of Arctic sea ice in 2018, finding it was three times higher than the initial loss during the satellite era. The study links this decline to global atmospheric processes and warns of catastrophic impacts on air temperatures and ocean circulation if the trend continues.

SourceCell Press·JournalHeliyon·DateJul 29, 2020

The stars that time forgot

Astronomers have found a strange dismembered star cluster at the galaxy's edge, with lower quantities of heavier elements than other globular clusters. The discovery poses significant problems for current ideas on globular cluster origins.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

'Giant atoms' enable quantum processing and communication in one

MIT researchers develop an on-off system that allows for low-error quantum computations and rapid sharing of quantum information between processors. The system uses 'giant atoms' made from superconducting qubits, enabling high-fidelity operations and interconnection between processors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

Scientists at the CNIC and IIS Princesa decipher a key mechanism in hypoxia

Researchers at CNIC and IIS Princesa discover that sodium ions regulate mitochondrial function, increasing reactive oxygen species production in early stages of hypoxia. This finding could lead to new treatments for diseases related to hypoxia, such as stroke and heart attack.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. to publish Applied Biosafety

The Journal of ABSA International has been awarded to Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., effective 2021. The publication aims to promote global biosafety awareness and best practices in preventing occupational exposures and adverse environmental impacts related to biohazardous releases.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied Biosafety·DateJul 29, 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.

Night-time exposure to blue light associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer

A new study published in Epidemiology found that night-time exposure to outdoor artificial light, especially blue light, may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The research analyzed data from over 2,000 adults and found a 60% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer among those with the highest exposures to blue light.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEpidemiology·DateJul 29, 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.

ENCODE3: Interpreting the human and mouse genomes

The ENCODE project has completed Phase 3, providing insights into the human and mouse genomes' functional elements. The study identifies over 900,000 candidate regulatory elements from the human genome, shedding light on cancer biology and other topics.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

Put down that cup of earl gray tea!

Gut microbiome plays a crucial role in cancer growth, particularly in the colon where high levels of metabolites from antioxidant-rich foods accelerate bowel cancer. In contrast, small intestines have fewer bacteria and may convert cancer-driving proteins into super-suppressors.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

Studying interactions between ground-nesting bees and soils

Researchers Rebecca Lybrand and her team studied the interaction between ground-nesting bees and soils in agricultural settings. They found that active nesting sites were present in locations with little to no rock cover and low vegetation, which may provide a suitable habitat for these pollinators.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJul 29, 2020

Sense of normalcy bounces back fast: New study

Researchers found that psychological recovery can take place while still experiencing stressful conditions, contrary to previous research. Employees reported feeling less powerless and more authentic within two weeks of the crisis beginning.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJul 29, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

FSU biologist uses genome database to investigate cancer cells

Researchers used a genome database to identify the cell type from which cancers derive, revealing new insights into cancer development. By comparing cancer cells to normal human cells, they found that different cancers mostly closely matched specific cell types, shedding light on their origins and tumor behavior.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2020

Thermal storage units that repair themselves

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg developed a method to incorporate paraffin wax into the shell of thermal storage tanks, reducing heat loss and promoting self-healing. The study's findings suggest a potential solution for storing renewable energy in the medium term.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 29, 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.

First results of an upgraded device highlight lithium's value for producing fusion

The LTX-β upgrade successfully demonstrates the ability of liquid lithium to hold onto stray particles, improving plasma temperature profiles and expanding plasma volume for fusion. The device aims to test whether coating all plasma-facing walls with lithium can enhance plasma confinement and increase temperature.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalIEEE Transactions on Plasma Science·DateJul 29, 2020

Arguments between couples: Our neurons like mediation

A study by scientists from Université de Genève found that active mediation in couples enhances conflict resolution and satisfaction. Couples who received mediation showed increased activation in the nucleus accumbens, a key region associated with feelings of pleasure and motivation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCortex·DateJul 29, 2020

How women and men forgive infidelity

Research reveals that men and women are equally willing to forgive their partner for infidelity, with the degree of forgiveness not related to the type of infidelity. The mechanisms underlying forgiveness appear to be identical between genders, with individual differences playing a role in reaction to infidelity.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Relationships Research·DateJul 29, 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.

Monash scientists expose fascinating 'compartments' in bacteria

The review paper reveals the intricacies of bacterial organelles, which support functions essential for survival and growth. Organelles enable bacteria to perform extraordinary tasks, such as photosynthesis and orientation relative to magnetic fields.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Reviews Microbiology·DateJul 29, 2020

Gender gap in surgical residencies

A decade-long study finds that certain surgical specialties have significantly lower percentages of female resident physicians. The researchers identified these specialties and tracked changes in the number of women in each over time.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 29, 2020

Whale 'snot' reveals likely poor health during migration

Researchers found significantly less microbial diversity and richness in humpback whales' respiratory microbiota during the return leg of their migration, suggesting they were likely in poorer health. This study provides new insights into using airway microbiota as a non-invasive method for monitoring whale health.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 29, 2020

COVID-19 risk model uses hospital data to guide decisions on social distancing

A new framework helps local entities determine when to tighten social distancing measures and relax restrictions based on hospital data, aiming to minimize economic impact. The model provides clear guidance for tracking hospital admissions data and acting on strict thresholds to prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 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.

UMMS scientists lead effort to annotate human genome

Researchers identified nearly 1 million potential functional genomic elements in the human genome, which control gene expression and promote health or disease. The UMMS team's registry of these elements can be used to study links between regulatory switches and genetic diseases.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

How stony-iron meteorites form

A scientific team has successfully simulated the formation of pallasites, a type of stony-iron meteorite, on an experimental basis. The experiments confirmed that both partial separation of core and mantle, and subsequent impact of another celestial body, are required for their formation.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJul 29, 2020

Tailored light inspired by nature

A team of international researchers developed propagation-invariant light fields using caustics that do not change during propagation. This breakthrough enables new applications in high-resolution microscopy, material processing, and multidimensional signal transmission.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2020

Pregnant Black and Hispanic women five times more likely to be exposed to coronavirus

A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that pregnant Black and Hispanic women are five times more likely to be exposed to the coronavirus than white and Asian women. The study analyzed serological data from over 1,200 women and found significant variation in virus exposure rates across racial and ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Immunology·DateJul 29, 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.

Britta Will, Ph.D., wins Pershing Square Sohn Prize for cancer research

Dr. Britta Will, an assistant professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, has won the prestigious Pershing Square Sohn Prize for her innovative cancer research. Her studies focus on understanding mechanisms that create and sustain cancer stem cells in acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateJul 29, 2020

Newer PFAS compound detected for first time in Arctic seawater

Researchers have detected a newer PFAS compound, HFPO-DA, in Arctic seawater for the first time, posing similar health and persistence concerns as PFOA. Higher levels of PFAS were found in outgoing water compared to entering water from the North Atlantic.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 29, 2020

New drug targets for lethal brain cancer discovered

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute have engineered a new mouse model to study glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The study identified over 200 genes that contribute to the development and growth of glioblastoma, providing potential new drug targets.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 29, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that severe COVID-19 is associated with endotheliitis and microangiopathy, leading to a multisystem inflammatory syndrome similar to Kawasaki disease. Additionally, obesity in adults under 65 years old increases the risk of intubation or death from COVID-19, but not for those over 65.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 29, 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.

Research brief: 'Fool's gold' may be valuable after all

Scientists at the University of Minnesota have successfully electrically transformed iron sulfide, or 'fool's gold', into a magnetic material. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of valuable new magnetic materials for more efficient computer memory devices.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 29, 2020

Rapid antibody development yields possible treatment for yellow fever

A potential treatment for yellow fever has shown promise in early-stage clinical trials in Singapore, using a novel approach to develop an engineered monoclonal antibody that targets the virus. The therapy was developed in seven months, significantly reducing the time required for drug development.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 29, 2020

Scientists find new way to kill tuberculosis

Researchers at Durham University have found a new toxin, called MenT, produced by the TB bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This toxin inhibits the use of amino acids needed for protein production, causing the bacteria to die. The discovery opens up new avenues for treating tuberculosis and other infections.

SourceDurham University·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 29, 2020

In HEPA we trust: making the indoors safer during COVID

Syracuse University Professor Jianshun Zhang proposes a three-step plan to improve IAQ and reduce the risk of asymptomatic SARS CoV-2 infections. The plan includes source control, ventilation with increased outdoor air supply, and high-efficiency air cleaning with HEPA filters.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScience and Technology for the Built Environment·DateJul 29, 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.

Americans are consuming less sugar but more nonnutritive sweeteners

A study found a decline in purchases of foods with caloric sugars, but an increase in those with both caloric and nonnutritive sweeteners. Purchases of beverages with nonnutritive sweeteners grew significantly, particularly among households with children.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·DateJul 29, 2020

Anti-Asian racism during COVID-19 has historical ties in United States

A new academic paper examines the history of anti-Asian hate crimes during health crises, revealing a long-standing pattern of xenophobia and discrimination. The study highlights how COVID-19 has furthered this historical trend, with Asian Americans facing verbal harassment, physical violence, and unwarranted suspicion.

SourceIowa State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Criminal Justice·DateJul 29, 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.