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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 35


Page 35 of 48

Integrating nanomaterial with light-absorbing molecule powers hydrogen production from water and sun

Researchers have developed a new photocatalyst that can generate hydrogen from water with high efficiency, using nanoscale metal oxide sheets and a ruthenium dye molecule. The material works under visible light, the main component of sunlight, and has a record-breaking turnover frequency and external quantum yield.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 8, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Rate over time of stroke caused by brain bleeding

An observational study tracked stroke cases caused by intracerebral hemorrhage from 1948 to 2016. The rate of this deadly type of stroke decreased significantly during the 10-year period, contradicting previous findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 8, 2020

The impact of disclosure laws on prescription patterns from companies that pay them

Research in Massachusetts found that disclosure laws resulted in a decline of 31-56% in the prescription of certain branded medications and 25-33% in generic prescriptions. The study suggests that physicians may be more motivated to switch to generic alternatives due to self-monitoring.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJun 8, 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.

Researchers develop 3D-printable material that mimics biological tissues

Scientists at University of Colorado Denver create complex, porous lattice structure using liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) to mimic cartilage and other biological tissues. The material exhibits exceptional elasticity and dissipation capabilities, making it suitable for applications in football helmets and spinal implants.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 8, 2020

Scientists identify targets for COVID-19 vaccine using cancer immunotherapy tools

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a strategy to identify regions of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to target with a vaccine, employing cancer immunotherapies. They prioritize viral targets based on their ability to stimulate a lasting immune response, predicted to be in the vast majority of the human population.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJun 8, 2020

Johns Hopkins 'philosophy lab test' finds objective vision impossible

Researchers used cognitive science methods to test philosophical question: Can people see the world objectively? They found that people can't separate an object's true identity from their own perspective, even when certain it's round. This challenge our understanding of perception and the brain's role in shaping reality.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Red tape may have a silver lining for micro businesses -- new study

A new study from the University of Bath found that regulation can trigger significant benefits for micro firms, including new business opportunities and strategies. The research suggests that regulation can protect existing markets and ensure a level playing field across the industry.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalCompetition & Change·DateJun 8, 2020

Engaging in family meals starts with healthy family communication

Researchers found parents with better communication and lower discouragement were more likely to participate in family meals, leading to healthier habits. The study also highlighted the importance of open communication about children's weight without promoting unhealthy body image.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 8, 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.

When cancer cells can't make their own fat, they eat more of it

A new study found that cancer cells adapt by gobbling up fat molecules from their environment when they can't make their own, potentially rendering treatments ineffective. The research identified a new gene, LUR1, involved in lipid uptake and suggests targeting this process could lead to more effective cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJun 8, 2020

Impressive result for mental health therapy

The study, published in Journal of Mental Health, demonstrates the positive clinical outcomes of NewAccess in addressing known barriers to access of evidence-based early intervention for depression and anxiety in Australia. The program offers free therapy with no co-payment, accessible by phone, face-to-face, or self-referral.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Mental Health·DateJun 8, 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.

Disjunct distribution across the equator

A new species of riffle beetle, Podonychus gyobu, is described from Kyushu, Japan, with a disjunct distribution across the equator to Indonesia. The genus was previously known only in Indonesia and has a unique characteristic of having six-segmented antennae.

SourceEhime University·JournalZooKeys·DateJun 8, 2020

American Roentgen Ray Society statement on health care and racial inequities

The American Roentgen Ray Society reaffirms its mission to improve health through a community of allies dedicated to knowledge and quality care for all. Recent events highlighting racial injustice in the US healthcare system have prompted ARRS to reiterate its commitment to addressing these inequities.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJun 8, 2020

Patterns in permafrost soils could help climate change models

New research reveals consistent patterns in permafrost soils across Alaska's North Slope, allowing scientists to predict how carbon and greenhouse gases are released. The findings will help improve climate models by providing direct permafrost soil information, filling a knowledge gap that has been around for 30 years.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 8, 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.

New tool helps nanorods stand out

Rice University scientists developed an easy and affordable tool to count and characterize nanoparticles using the open-source SEMseg program. The tool simplifies nanoparticle analysis by extracting pixel-level data from low-contrast SEM images and recombining it into sharp images.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateJun 8, 2020

Temperate insects as vulnerable to climate change as tropical species

A new study finds that temperate insects are as threatened by climate change as tropical species due to their inactive periods. The researchers analyzed insect populations and found temperatures close to optimal or critical limits, risking population decline and ecosystem disruption.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 8, 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.

Radiocarbon dating with subannual precision

Researchers used subannual precision radiocarbon dating to analyze tree rings in the Por-Bajin monument, revealing a sudden increase in atmospheric 14C in 775 CE. The analysis allowed them to pinpoint the exact year and season of construction as summer 777 CE.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Drivers of global mean sea level variability

A multivariate analysis of sea level data reveals that barystatic and steric contributions drive most interannual variability in GMSL, with ENSO playing a significant role. The study highlights the magnitude of these contributions associated with ENSO events.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

3-D shape of human genome essential for robust inflammatory response

Research published in Nature Genetics found that the three-dimensional structure of the human genome is essential for a rapid and robust inflammatory response. The discovery sheds light on the fundamental relationship between genome folding and cell function, highlighting the importance of architectural proteins like CTCF.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 8, 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.

New algorithm helps select patients for urgent surgery or chemotherapy during pandemic

A new algorithm has been developed to select breast cancer patients in need of urgent surgery or chemotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. The algorithm uses data from international trials to identify postmenopausal patients with primary ER+HER2- breast cancer who have less endocrine-sensitive tumours and should be prioritized for ear...

SourceThe Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust·Journalnpj Breast Cancer·DateJun 8, 2020

Replacing GDP with Gross Ecosystem Product reveals value of nature

A new study suggests replacing GDP with Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) can provide decision-makers with clear and compelling evidence of the value of nature. The study, conducted in China's Qinghai province, found that GEP was greater than GDP in the year 2000.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Radiocarbon dating pins date for construction of Uyghur complex to the year 777

Researchers have used a recently developed radiocarbon dating method to determine the exact construction date of an eighth-century Uyghur complex in southern Siberia. The findings suggest that the complex was built as a Manichaean monastery, explaining its abandonment, and provide new insights into the purpose of this archaeological site.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Astronomers find elusive target hiding behind dust

Astronomers have discovered a region around a protostar containing complex organic molecules, dubbed a 'hot corino,' which is crucial for the formation of life. The finding resolves a long-standing puzzle about why some binary systems show evidence of hot corinos but not others.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 8, 2020

A sharper view of flood risk

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology devised a new analytical tool to predict flood risk by adapting a classical statistical model for analyzing extreme rainfall in large datasets. The model demonstrated potential in capturing observed patterns in northeast America, promising improved prediction capabilities.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Statistical Association·DateJun 8, 2020

Global oncology pharmacists face restricted access to essential PPE items

Oncology pharmacy practitioners worldwide are struggling with limited and restricted PPE supply, making it difficult for them to provide high-quality cancer care. In a study, half of the surveyed countries reported impaired access to essential medications, including anti-infective agents and anticancer medications.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice·DateJun 8, 2020

First global map of rockfalls on the Moon

Researchers have created the first global map of rockfalls on the Moon, revealing that asteroid impacts are responsible for over 80% of observed rockfalls. The map, based on over two million images, shows that even ancient lunar surfaces continue to be affected by erosion through rockfall.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2020

Kidney problems more prevalent in NYC COVID-19 patients

A recent study found that hospitalized NYC COVID-19 patients had higher rates of kidney complications and needed mechanical ventilation more frequently than other patient groups. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 patients treated at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center between March and April 2020.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalThe BMJ·DateJun 8, 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.

Why the Victoria Plate in Africa rotates

Researchers from GFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam found that the rotation of the Victoria microplate is controlled by the configuration of weaker and stronger lithospheric regions. They used 3D numerical models to compute the dynamics of the last 10 million years, showing a best fit with GPS-derived data.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2020

Drug repurposing for bone mass gain

Researchers repurposed two ED medications to boost bone health, with tadalafil and vardenafil enhancing bone formation and preventing resorption. The findings suggest a potential new therapeutic strategy for osteoporosis treatment.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Artificial brains may need sleep too

Artificial neural networks became unstable after continuous unsupervised learning, but exposure to Gaussian noise mimics slow-wave sleep stabilized them. This finding has implications for the development of biologically realistic AI systems.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·DateJun 8, 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.

Novel computer-assisted chemical synthesis method cuts research time and cost

Researchers at Hokkaido University have successfully synthesized a non-natural fluorinated amino acid using a novel computer-assisted method. The Artificial Force Induced Reaction (AFIR) method predicts feasible reaction pathways, significantly reducing synthesis time and cost, with yields of up to 99.99%.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 8, 2020

Newly identified gene reduces pollen number of plants

A new gene has been discovered that reduces pollen number in plants, a trait previously thought to be detrimental. The RDP1 gene promotes protein production, suggesting a potential advantage in self-fertilizing species.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 8, 2020

WPSI recommends screening for anxiety in women and adolescent girls

The Women's Preventive Services Initiative recommends screening for anxiety in women and adolescent girls to detect specific types of anxiety and co-occurring conditions. Researchers found strong evidence that screening instruments are moderately to highly accurate.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 8, 2020

Monkeys appreciate lifelike animation

Researchers found that Rhesus monkeys avoid lifeless monkey faces but show social facial expressions towards a natural-looking avatar with fur and details. The study suggests using this type of avatar in social cognition studies for standardization and replicability.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJun 8, 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.

Research team builds better rock models

A new method for creating digital replicas of rock samples is being developed by geoscience researchers at the University of Texas at Austin. This technique allows scientists to learn about rock samples without touching them and can be used to calculate important rock properties such as permeability and electrical conductivity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJun 8, 2020

Spontaneous formation of nanoscale hollow structures could boost battery storage

Researchers discovered that nanometer-scale antimony crystals form hollow structures during charging, allowing more ion flow and improving battery performance. The self-hollowing structures could also be used in sodium-ion and potassium-ion batteries, expanding material options for the next generation of lithium-ion batteries.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 8, 2020

New technique pinpoints locations of individual molecules in their cellular neighborhoods

A new microscopy technique has pinpointed the locations of individual proteins within bacterial cells, revealing their precise positions and interactions. The technique, called CIASM, combines fluorescent imaging with cryogenic electron tomography to produce high-resolution images of molecules in their cellular neighborhoods.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Atmosphere arsenic and health risks

Researchers analyzed atmospheric arsenic concentrations from 2005 to 2015, finding the highest levels in Chile and eastern China. The study highlights the growing health risks posed by airborne arsenic in India, surpassing China's levels by 2015.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 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.

Boys' poor reading skills might help explain higher education gender gap

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that boys' poor reading skills in adolescence, combined with social attitudes about women attending college, can explain why fewer men than women enroll in higher education. The research analyzed data from over 400,000 boys and girls across 18 countries.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Do COVID-19 apps protect your privacy?

A recent study analyzed 50 COVID-19-related apps and found that most require access to users' personal data, but only a few indicate secure storage. The researchers warn that governments' use of tracking technology could lead to mass surveillance and chilling effects on individual privacy.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 8, 2020

Limits of human color perception

Researchers found that people are often unaware of color removal from their visual periphery in virtual reality, suggesting limitations to human color awareness. The studies used 178 participants and revealed that peripheral color detection is less accurate than previously believed.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Functional polymers to improve thermal stability of bioplastics

Functional star-shaped polymers exhibit improved thermostability, making them suitable for medical diagnostics and targeted drug delivery. The study establishes a relationship between the synthesis conditions and the structure of the obtained compounds.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalReactive and Functional Polymers·DateJun 8, 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.