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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 47


Page 47 of 48

Killing coronavirus with handheld ultraviolet light device may be feasible

A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a handheld ultraviolet light device that can effectively disinfect areas by killing the novel coronavirus. The device uses high-performance UV LEDs emitting a high intensity of UV light, which is currently limited by transparent electrode materials.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Physics Communications·DateJun 1, 2020

Mice are shrinking, but are climate change and cities to blame?

Researchers analyzed 70 years of records on North American deer mouse population trends, finding a general decrease in mass over time, despite expected links to climate and urbanization. Urban areas showed shorter mice with similar body mass, hinting at complex relationships between environmental factors and mammalian adaptation.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 1, 2020

AI stock trading experiment beats market in simulation

Researchers developed a novel AI-managed trading strategy that outperforms traditional methods, achieving greater gains and fewer losses. The proposed system utilizes convolutional neural networks to analyze layered images of current and past market data, leading to more accurate predictions and reduced randomness.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateJun 1, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dieting? Studies weigh in on opportunities and risks

Research highlights the importance of balancing healthy eating with nutrient-dense diets to avoid deficiencies. A new study also links weight loss diets to a higher risk of orthorexia nervosa, while another study suggests that gut microbes may play a role in predicting weight loss success.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Clever computing puts millions into charities' hands

A new model called Swiftaid has been developed to automate the process of claiming Gift Aid on donations, allowing charities to claim up to £2.50 for every £10 donated. This system uses formal methods to improve design and security, streamlining the process and unlocking millions in extra funding.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalFormal Aspects of Computing·DateJun 1, 2020

Asteroids Bennu and Ryugu may have formed directly from collision in space

Scientists propose that asteroids Bennu and Ryugu were formed directly as spinning-top shapes due to a collision, with their equatorial craters ruling out recent re-shaping. The team's computer simulations suggest two possible explanations for the different hydration levels of the two bodies.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 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.

Playing video games linked with unhealthy behaviors for college men

A new study suggests that college men who play video games are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as poor eating habits and reduced physical activity. The research found that gamers consumed more saturated fat and sodium, while engaging in less fruit and vegetable consumption.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Kirigami grips could help seniors keep their footing

Researchers at Harvard and MIT have developed pop-up shoe grips inspired by snake skin that increase friction between the shoe and ground. These assistive grips could significantly reduce the risk of falls among older adults and improve the mobility of all-terrain robots.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 1, 2020

Latest climate models show more intense droughts to come

New climate model projections indicate that droughts will become longer and more frequent globally, particularly in regions like the Amazon, Mediterranean, and southern Africa. The study's findings suggest that variability in rainfall is a key factor in predicting future drought intensity.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 1, 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.

Snowball Earth and Great Oxidation Event

Researchers determined that the Great Oxidation Event occurred within a time interval spanning the Paleoproterozoic Era's two sedimentary formations. The study suggests the GOE predated global glaciation, contrary to previous assumptions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

Eating whole grains could help lower diabetes risk

A large analysis of over 200,000 people found that high-quality carbohydrates like whole grains are associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Researchers also discovered that replacing low-quality carbohydrates with saturated fats is linked to a reduced risk of developing the condition.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateJun 1, 2020

Academic emergency departments are always open to all who need care

Academic emergency departments have a legal, historical, and ethical obligation to provide safe evaluation and care to anyone in need. The Federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) prohibits EDs from turning away patients, ensuring access to medical screening and care for all 120 million ED visitors annually.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateJun 1, 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.

Like a treasure map, brain region emphasizes reward location

Researchers at the Picower Institute for Learning and Memory discovered that the lateral septum tracks rewards with an emphasis on location. This brain region plays a crucial role in filtering and converting raw information about location into reward-specific output.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateJun 1, 2020

Disorder in fish shoals may reap rewards at dinner time

Research by the University of Bristol found that certain fish perform better in disordered groups due to their increased alertness and ability to detect food sources. This challenges the traditional view of orderly group behavior as always beneficial for foraging, highlighting individual diversity as a key factor.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 2020

A boost for cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at MIT create nanoparticles that stimulate the immune system, making cancer immunotherapy more powerful. By combining these particles with checkpoint inhibitors, they achieved a synergistic effect that halted tumor growth and even stopped tumors from spreading.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

Researchers identify a moving target in small cell lung tumors

Scientists have made a breakthrough discovery in understanding small cell lung cancer, finding that it can change and adapt to evade treatments. The study suggests that the tumor is like a 'moving target' that requires multiple treatments to be effective.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateJun 1, 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.

Extra choline may help pregnant women decrease negative effects of COVID-19 on their newborns

A new study suggests that taking extra choline supplements during pregnancy may mitigate the negative impact of viral respiratory infections, including COVID-19, on fetal brain development. Higher prenatal choline levels have been shown to protect the fetus's developing brain from the effects of virus infection.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateJun 1, 2020

Ancient genomes link subsistence change and human migration in northern China

A team of researchers sequenced 55 ancient genomes from northern China, finding correlations between genetic changes and subsistence strategy shifts. The study reveals that the West Liao River region experienced significant genetic changes over time, while the Yellow River showed a general stability but received genetic contributions f...

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 1, 2020

Climate action goes digital

A team of scientists suggests a digital COP26-Part 1 to complement the traditional event, ensuring transparency and accessibility. The proposal includes announcing unilateral pledges on ambitious national climate plans and initiatives to strengthen communities' resilience.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 1, 2020

New effective treatment for inflammatory diseases found

Researchers have discovered a novel drug that selectively controls excessive inflammation, a key driver of conditions like osteoarthritis and COVID-19. APPA demonstrates anti-inflammatory potential without compromising the body's ability to fight off infections.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalInflammopharmacology·DateJun 1, 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.

Solar Ring mission: A new concept of space exploration for understanding Sun and the inner heliosphere

The Solar Ring mission aims to study the Sun and its influence on the inner heliosphere using a novel six-spacecraft configuration. The mission will provide unprecedented capabilities, including determining the photospheric vector magnetic field with unambiguity and resolving solar wind structures at multiple scales.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Technological Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

The hidden underwater map of the past

A study by the University of the Basque Country reveals 12 former coastlines under the sea off the Basque coast, formed due to major climate changes and fluctuations in sea levels. The researchers used advanced technology to create 3D maps of the seabed, showing irregularly distributed rocky platforms that had not been predefined.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalFrontiers in Earth Science·DateJun 1, 2020

Does estrogen influence alcohol use disorder?

A recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that high estrogen levels may increase feelings of reward in response to alcohol in female mice. The research suggests that treatment for alcohol use disorder may be more effective if sex differences are considered.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJNeurosci·DateJun 1, 2020

Coatings for shoe bottoms could improve traction on slick surfaces

Researchers at MIT have developed a friction-boosting material that can be used to coat shoe bottoms, increasing grip on ice and other slippery surfaces. Laboratory tests showed a 20-35% increase in friction with the kirigami-coated shoes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 1, 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.

Across the cell membrane

Research by Liao Chen reveals significant differences between simple and realistic models of aquaporins and glucose transporters, leading to a better understanding of their biological functions. The study's findings have implications for diseases such as de Vivo's syndrome and multiple forms of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalFrontiers in Physics·DateJun 1, 2020

Researchers have developed a first-principles quantum Monte Carlo package called TurboRVB

Researchers have developed TurboRVB, a first-principles quantum Monte Carlo package that overcomes drawbacks of density functional theory and wavefunction-based calculations. The code features resonating valence bond-type wave functions, state-of-the-art optimization algorithms, and lattice-regularized diffusion Monte Carlo method.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJun 1, 2020

UNH Space Science Center offers out of this world experience

The Student Collaboration Project aims to diversify the field of space science by providing undergraduate and graduate students with a firsthand research experience. Students will design, build, and launch CubeSats that collect data on the Earth's upper atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateJun 1, 2020

Rice scientist goes deep to improve environmental tracers

Laurence Yeung's research aims to unify theory and experiments on oxygen isotopes to improve estimates of primary productivity in the oceans. He also seeks to resolve interlaboratory discrepancies and study biosphere productivity over a billion years.

SourceRice University·DateJun 1, 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.

COVID-19 outbreak lasts days longer for each day's delay in social distancing

A study of 58 cities found that each day's delay in implementing social distancing measures added 2.4 days to the outbreak duration. Early intervention can save lives and reduce transmission by acting quickly upon signs of resurgence. The findings have implications for US cities, particularly those with high rapid transmission rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJun 1, 2020

Mobile phone data and sustainable development

Research using 113,620 women's data found mobile phone ownership increased household decision-making power and HIV knowledge. Worldwide mobile phone adoption also linked to decreased gender inequality and mortality rates.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

The Milky Way has one very hot halo, astronomers find

Researchers at Ohio State University found that the halo surrounding the Milky Way galaxy is much hotter than initially thought, with temperatures reaching up to 10 million degrees Kelvin. This new discovery could help astronomers understand how galaxies form and grow, as well as the elements that contribute to these halos.

SourceOhio State University·DateJun 1, 2020

OU College of Medicine awarded $11 million grant to study infections

The OU College of Medicine has been awarded a $11 million federal grant to create the Oklahoma Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunity. The center will focus on researching various types of infections, including fungal, bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, and how the immune system recognizes and destroys them.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateJun 1, 2020

The human factor limits hope of climate fixes

A new laboratory experiment reveals that climate geoengineering can lead to increased inequalities and economic losses, particularly when countries employ 'free driving' strategies. The study also found high strategic uncertainty and miscoordination among countries through counter-geoengineering solutions.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 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.

WVU researchers tap into wood for protection against COVID-19

Researchers at West Virginia University are developing reusable, environmentally friendly mask filters using wood-derived materials to address PPE shortages. The filters, made from polylactic acid, nanocellulose, and nano copper, aim to prevent viruses and microorganisms from penetrating masks.

SourceWest Virginia University·DateJun 1, 2020

Tracking fossil fuel emissions with carbon-14

Researchers estimate national fossil-fuel-derived CO2 emissions by observing carbon-14 in air samples. The new method uses a model of atmospheric transport to disentangle CO2 variations from natural sources, providing an independent and objective estimate.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

New NiMH batteries perform better when made from recycled old NiMH batteries

Researchers at Stockholm University developed a new recycling method for NiMH batteries, which improves their performance and reduces production costs by up to 95%. The process involves mechanical washing and separation of reusable electrode material, making it easier and cheaper than traditional battery recycling methods.

SourceStockholm University·JournalMolecules·DateJun 1, 2020

People with Type 1 diabetes spend $2,500 a year in health care costs

A new study finds that people with Type 1 diabetes spend an average of $2,500 a year on healthcare costs, with diabetes-related supplies costing more than insulin. The study also highlights the importance of automating glucose monitoring and insulin delivery for young children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 1, 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.

Aiming for an enduring relationship

Recent research suggests that a higher degree of readiness is associated with higher commitment to a relationship. Readiness also predicts relationship maintenance beyond commitment, but surprisingly, it's also linked to less loyalty. The study found that individuals who feel more ready may prioritize relationships over other issues an...

SourceSingapore Management University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJun 1, 2020

Climate change an imminent threat to glass sponge reefs

A long-term lab study reveals that climate change is drastically reducing the skeletal strength and filter-feeding capacity of glass sponges. The findings indicate that ongoing climate change could have serious, irreversible impacts on these sprawling reefs in the Pacific Northwest.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 1, 2020

An MRI technique has been developed to improve the detection of tumors

A new MRI technique has been developed to improve the detection of tumors by enhancing the accuracy of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements. The technique uses a phantom designed to assess imaging quality and simulate hindered and restricted diffusion, allowing for more precise tumor differentiation.

SourceCenter of Diagnostics and Telemedicine·JournalInsights into Imaging·DateJun 1, 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.

Blockchain to the rescue of small publishers

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology developed a blockchain prototype system for digital rights management and royalty distribution, creating new revenue streams for small publishers. The project enabled micro-payments via smart contracts to creative professionals involved in the writing and publishing process.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateJun 1, 2020

Thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy being overdiagnosed, overtreated

Researchers found TSH testing performed on most pregnant women without thyroid disease, leading to unnecessary thyroid hormone therapy. The study suggests that minor elevations in TSH may not require treatment, raising concerns about overmedicalization during pregnancy.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 1, 2020

A good egg: Robot chef trained to make omelettes

A team of engineers at the University of Cambridge has successfully trained a robot chef to prepare an omelette using machine learning, with improved taste and texture. The robot's culinary skills were refined to produce a reliable dish that meets human standards, overcoming the subjective nature of cooking.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJun 1, 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.

Army Research Laboratory supporting Texas A&M research on armor performance

A Texas A&M University research project, led by Dr. Justin Wilkerson, aims to identify the damaging effects of vacancies in aluminum's atomic structure on ballistic performance. The study uses supercomputing facilities to calculate changes due to vacancies over time and may lead to improved armor materials for the US Army.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 1, 2020

These flexible feet help robots walk faster

Researchers created flexible feet using coffee grounds and structures inspired by nature, allowing robots to walk up to 40% faster and grip better on various terrains. The new design outperforms traditional robot feet in adapting to natural environments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJun 1, 2020

A remote control for neurons

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University develop a novel material called NT-3DFG, which enables remote optical stimulation of neurons without genetic modification or cellular stress. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding cell interactions and developing new therapies that harness the human body's own cells.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2020

Genetic cause of difference in sexual development uncovered

Researchers at The Francis Crick Institute identified a genetic cause of testicular tissue developing in people with female chromosomes. They found that mutations affecting the Wilms' Tumor 1 (WT1) gene lead to an imbalance that favors male testis development.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 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.

Long-term use of rituximab associated with lower rates of AAV relapse

A randomized trial found that extended rituximab infusions were associated with lower relapse rates in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis. Long-term rituximab use is considered an effective and probably safe treatment option for patients with AAV, according to the study's findings.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 1, 2020