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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 6


Page 6 of 47
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.

Estimating bisphenol exposures in the Australian population

Researchers in Australia analyzed urine and wastewater samples to estimate changes in bisphenol exposure over six years. They found that urinary levels of BPA decreased, while BPS increased, with higher levels detected in younger age groups. In wastewater, BPA and BPS were consistently detected, with BPF also present in 29% of samples.

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

Discovered: Remnant of ancient globular cluster that's 'the last of its kind'

A team of astronomers discovered a stellar stream composed of the remnants of an ancient globular cluster torn apart by the Milky Way's gravity 2 billion years ago. The Phoenix Stream is distinct from other globular clusters and suggests that there may be no minimum abundance of heavier elements required for their formation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

ORNL-produced plutonium-238 to help power perseverance on Mars

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory's production of ORNL-produced plutonium-238 enables the Perseverance rover to power its journey across Mars. The lab has been consistently increasing its Pu-238 production capabilities, aiming to produce 1.5 kilograms per year by 2026.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·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.

Astronomers pinpoint the best place on Earth for a telescope: High on a frigid Antarctic plateau

Researchers found that Dome A's unique combination of high altitude, low temperature, and stable atmosphere makes it an attractive location for optical and infrared astronomy. This location could lead to sharper images and the detection of fainter objects, overcoming a major challenge in Earth-based astronomy: atmospheric turbulence.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

NIH-funded project details the inner workings of the human and mouse genome

The ENCODE Project has added millions of candidate DNA switches that appear to regulate gene expression in humans and mice, providing a new registry for assigning biological categories. Researchers used biochemical approaches to explore the entire genome rapidly and comprehensively, identifying regions with potential functional roles.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2020

How plantains and carbon nanotubes can improve cars

A team of researchers at the University of Johannesburg has developed a natural fibre-reinforced polymer hybrid nanocomposite material using plantain fibers and carbon nanotubes. The resulting composite exhibits improved tensile and flexural strength compared to epoxy resin alone.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Materials Research and Technology·DateJul 29, 2020

What jigsaw puzzles tell us about child development

Researchers found that three-year-olds rely on trial and error, while four-year-olds use visual information to complete puzzles. Understanding pictures as representations is the foundation of drawing and painting, according to the study published in Child Development.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalChild Development·DateJul 28, 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.

How climate change impacts prescribed burning days

Research shows that climate change will shift the timing of prescribed burning windows along the east coast of Australia, with some months experiencing more frequent fires. However, the overall number of prescribed burning days is expected to remain similar or even increase in some cases.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 28, 2020

Scientists unlock genetic secrets of wine growers' worst enemy

Researchers have identified nearly 3,000 genes that enable phylloxera to colonize and feed on grape vines by creating nutrient-enhanced tumors. This discovery could lead to the development of pest-resistant rootstocks, reducing the financial burden on grape growers.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBMC Biology·DateJul 28, 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.

Solving a DNA mystery

A team of researchers from UC Santa Barbara and LMU found that enzymes can cause liquid droplets formed from DNA to bubble unexpectedly. The bubbles occur when the enzyme penetrates inside the droplet, leading to an osmotic effect that causes water to be drawn in, resulting in a swelling phenomenon.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2020

Alzheimer's protein in blood indicates early brain changes

Researchers have identified a blood test target, phosphorylated tau 217, that correlates with the presence of amyloid plaques in the brain. This protein can be detected in the blood of people who have yet to show signs of forgetfulness or confusion, making it a promising tool for early Alzheimer's diagnosis.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 28, 2020

BU national survey of gun owners: Majority favor gun violence prevention policies

A majority of US gun owners support measures such as universal background checks, permit requirements, and prohibitions for individuals with domestic violence restraining orders. However, most report not vocally supporting these policies due to feelings of disrespect by health advocates.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 28, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Phosphoprotein biomarkers to guide cancer therapy are identified

Researchers identified phosphoprotein biomarkers to guide cancer therapy, demonstrating a novel approach for identifying and detecting tumor drivers. The study's findings suggest that precision medicine is a realizable goal for rare and recalcitrant cancers.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2020

Decline of bees, other pollinators threatens US crop yields

A Rutgers-led study reveals that US crop yields for apples, cherries, and blueberries are being reduced due to a lack of pollinators. The research highlights the critical role of wild bees and honeybees in pollination and suggests that adopting practices to conserve or augment these species could boost yields.

SourceRutgers University·DateJul 28, 2020

ERC Proof of Concept: Artificial intelligence for flexible robots

The ERC Proof of Concept project 'AssemblySkills' aims to validate an autonomous, intelligent skill learning system for robots to acquire and improve motor skills. The project builds on the ERC Starting Grant 'SKILLS4ROBOTS', which has yielded a structured control architecture that can scale robot learning to complex tasks.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·DateJul 28, 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.

What's the best way to estimate and track COVID-19 mortality?

A new study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that the symptomatic case fatality ratio (sCFR) and infection fatality ratio (IFR) are better measures for monitoring COVID-19 epidemics than the commonly used case fatality ratio (CFR). The researchers applied a computational model to Hubei province, China, and six European regions, find...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 28, 2020

Immunoprotein impairs Sars-Cov-2

A human immune system protein, LY6E-Protein, strongly inhibits corona viruses, including Sars-Cov-2, by preventing virus fusion with host cells. This finding may lead to the development of new therapies against coronaviruses.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 28, 2020

Quitline plus surgery are big motivators for giving up smoking

A new study from UC Davis Health found that combining thoracic surgery with a quitline e-referral program significantly improves tobacco cessation rates. The study showed that surgical patients who participated in the program were three times more likely to remain smoke-free at six months compared to those without the intervention.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 28, 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.

Adult stem cells/glaucoma drug combo promotes diabetic wound healing in mice

Researchers have developed a bioengineered scaffold using human mesenchymal stem cells and timolol, which significantly improved wound epithelialization and reduced inflammatory response in diabetic mice. The combination therapy resulted in more than a 70% increase in tissue repair compared to the control group.

SourceAlphaMed Press·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJul 28, 2020

Calcium and vitamin D nutrient deficiencies lead to higher risk for osteoporosis

A study published in PLoS ONE found that inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake are prevalent among the US population, particularly those living below the poverty line. The research highlights the significant risk of osteoporosis for men and women from low-income backgrounds, with non-Hispanic Black men facing a two-fold increased risk.

SourcePharmavite LLC·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 28, 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.

Medieval medicine remedy could provide new treatment for modern day infections

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a medieval remedy that shows promise in fighting biofilm-associated infections. The Bald's eyesalve mixture, made from onion, garlic, wine, and bile salts, demonstrates effective antibacterial activity against a range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive wound pathogens.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 28, 2020

Owe the IRS? No problem, some Americans say

A recent study from Ohio State University found that households immediately increase their spending after receiving tax refunds. In contrast, when households owe taxes, they do not reduce their spending, instead using other sources of funds to pay the bill. This challenges traditional economic theories about how people spend their money.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateJul 28, 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.

Discovery will allow more sophisticated work at nanoscale

Researchers have developed a new understanding of fluid movement in tiny channels and created a method to stimulate flow by manipulating surface tension through temperature or voltage changes. This discovery has implications for various fields, including drug delivery, energy conversion, and power generation.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateJul 28, 2020

Higher BPA levels linked to more asthma symptoms in children

Research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found a link between elevated BPA levels and increased asthma symptoms in low-income children. The study also did not find a statistically significant association between BPS and BPF levels and asthma symptoms.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 28, 2020

Music training may not make children smarter after all

A meta-analysis of 54 studies found no significant effect of music training on non-music cognitive skills and academic achievement in children. However, certain elements of music instruction may be beneficial for social skills and self-esteem.

SourceSpringer·JournalMemory & Cognition·DateJul 28, 2020

The mystery of the less deadly mosquito nets

Research reveals insecticide-treated mosquito nets, crucial in global malaria fight, have lost significant protection effectiveness. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), credited with saving millions lives since 2000, are now only killing 40% of mosquitoes they come into contact with.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 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.

Gene variations at birth reveal origins of inflammation and immune disease

A study has identified genetic variants that may contribute to the development of chronic immune and inflammatory diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, in early childhood. The research found thousands of genetic variants driving gene expression across different conditions.

SourceBaker Heart and Diabetes Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2020

Oldest South American fossil lizard discovered in Brazil

A novel species of lizard, Neokotus sanfranciscanus, has been found in the Quiricó Formation in Brazil, dating back to over 130 million years ago. The discovery reveals that squamates were distributed throughout the world earlier than previously thought and had a broader global distribution.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJul 28, 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.

Adjusting FRAX estimates to account for site of recent fracture

A new study quantifies the effect of a recent sentinel fracture on 10-year fracture probability using data from Iceland's fracture register. The findings provide probability ratios to adjust conventional FRAX estimates by site, enabling early identification and treatment of high-risk individuals.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateJul 28, 2020

Injury patterns may help differentiate between accidents and physical abuse in elderly patients, new study finds

A new study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine explores injury patterns to identify key differences between elder abuse and unintentional injuries. The study reveals distinct injury patterns, such as head or neck injuries without visible harm, facial injuries on the left cheek, and neck injuries, which can help healthcare profes...

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateJul 28, 2020

Using artificial intelligence to smell the roses

A team of researchers at UC Riverside used machine learning to understand what chemicals smell like, predicting how any chemical will smell to humans. This breakthrough technology has vast applications in the food, flavor, and fragrance industries, including discovering new flavors and insect repellents.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournaliScience·DateJul 28, 2020

Study: A plunge in incoming sunlight may have triggered 'snowball earths'

Scientists propose rate-induced glaciations as a possible explanation for Snowball Earth events, where a rapid decline in solar radiation can push the planet into a global ice age. The findings also suggest that exoplanets within habitable zones may be susceptible to similar temperature fluctuations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJul 28, 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.

Researchers urge the scientific community to #StopPandemicBias

Researchers warn that pandemic bias may hinder careers of scientists with caregiving responsibilities or those unable to travel due to the pandemic. The Carnegie Mellon team suggests actions to mitigate this bias, including supporting scholars, reviewing more articles and grants, and providing leniency for affected colleagues.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature·DateJul 28, 2020

Metal-breathing bacteria could transform electronics, biosensors, and more

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered a bacterium that produces materials with potential applications in electronics, electrochemical energy storage and drug-delivery devices. The study found that Shewanella oneidensis can create novel materials like molybdenum disulfide, which can transfer electrons easily.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalBiointerphases·DateJul 28, 2020

Identification of new "oxidative stress sensor" MTK1

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered a new mechanism by which cells respond to oxidative stress. MTK1, an oxidative stress sensor, perceives the cellular redox state and transduces it into SAPK signaling pathways, leading to cell death and inflammatory cytokine production.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 28, 2020

Study pinpoints women who benefit less from 3D mammograms

A new study found that digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) outperforms digital mammography in detecting cancers and reducing recalls. However, women with extremely dense breasts do not experience the same level of benefit from DBT. Most women with dense breasts saw an increase in cancer detection rates with DBT.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 28, 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.