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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 24


Page 24 of 41

Diet has an impact on the multiple sclerosis disease course

Researchers found that propionic acid reduced relapse rates and disability progression in MS patients, with initial MRI studies suggesting reduced brain atrophy. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune regulation, and altering its composition may lead to innovative dietary measures to complement existing therapies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCell·DateMar 11, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The Lancet: Triple therapies to treat malaria are effective and safe

The study of 1,100 people with uncomplicated falciparum malaria from eight countries shows that TACTs are highly efficacious with no safety concerns. However, they showed slightly higher rates of vomiting and minor changes in the electrical activity of the heart compared to existing treatment.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 11, 2020

Trailblazers issue celebrates women entrepreneurs in chemistry

The American Chemical Society is celebrating women entrepreneurs in chemistry with a special issue, featuring 20 female pioneers who have founded companies in biotechnology, solar energy, pharmaceuticals, and more. The Trailblazers issue aims to address the gender gap in funding and promote diversity in the entrepreneurial landscape.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 11, 2020

Keeping cats indoors could blunt adverse effects to wildlife

A new study reveals that house cats have a two- to 10-time larger impact on wildlife than wild predators. The research found that most pet cats hunt in disturbed habitats and kill an average of 3.5 prey items per month, leading to an estimated ecological impact per cat of 14.2-38.9 prey ha-1 yr-1.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateMar 11, 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.

Single biological factor predicts distinct cortical organizations across mammalian species

A KAIST research team identified a retino-cortical mapping ratio as the prime determinant in the topography of cortical organization, resolving a long-standing puzzle in understanding visual neuroscience. The study found that evolutionary variation in biological parameters induces distinct functional circuits in the visual cortex acros...

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 11, 2020

Study: Layoffs lead to higher rates of violent offenses and property crimes

A new study by Case Western Reserve University economist Mark Votruba found that involuntary job loss leads to a dramatic increase in criminal behavior. Displaced workers experienced a 20% increase in criminal charges the year after being laid off, as well as decreased earnings and full-time opportunities.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Labor Economics·DateMar 11, 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.

Microbes play important role in soil's nitrogen cycle

Soil microbes convert ammonium to nitrates using oxygen and diverse processes, making nutrients available to plants. The study highlights the importance of understanding microbial roles in the soil nitrogen cycle, which can inform efficient fertilizer use and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMar 11, 2020

Virtual reality shows promise for early detection of MS balance problems

A virtual reality test has shown promise in detecting balance problems in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), which can lead to falls and related injuries. The test uses a VR system to simulate falling while walking, triggering corrective reactions that can be measured as changes in gait and foot placement.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 11, 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.

Acacia bushlands prevent climate warming in Eastern Africa

A new study reveals that clearing acacia-dominated bushland for farming can raise land surface temperatures by up to 1.8°C, comparable to forest clearing. The findings suggest that preserving these ecosystems could mitigate climate change in the region.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·DateMar 11, 2020

Magnolia bark compound could someday help treat drug-resistant epilepsy

Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy using compounds derived from magnolia trees. The study found that extracts from the bark of Magnolia officinalis reduced seizure-like behavior in both zebrafish and mice, providing a promising lead for the development of new treatments.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateMar 11, 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.

Artificial intelligence and family medicine: Better together

Researchers argue that AI can facilitate human interactions in family medicine, making patient care more meaningful. By incorporating informatics into primary care specialties, AI can help reduce administrative burdens and improve population health.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFamily Medicine·DateMar 11, 2020

Melting glaciers will challenge some salmon populations and benefit others

A Simon Fraser University-led study predicts that climate-driven glacier retreat will challenge some salmon populations, while creating new habitats in others. As glaciers lose up to 80% of their ice volume by 2100, southern watersheds may face low water flows and warmer temperatures, posing challenges for adult and young salmon.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalBioScience·DateMar 11, 2020

Validating a better way to stratify BPD risk in vulnerable newborns

A new study has validated a better way to stratify BPD risk in extremely preterm infants, using a longer duration of supplemental oxygen. The findings suggest that babies who require oxygen for over 120 days are at high risk of respiratory complications and should receive expanded ventilation before discharge.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 11, 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.

New error correction method provides key step toward quantum computing

Researchers have developed a novel approach for quantum error correction that can mitigate certain types of random fluctuations, enabling the creation of more efficient quantum computers and sensors. By targeting specific noise sources, this method could significantly improve the performance of quantum systems.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 11, 2020

The naming of the shrew

Researchers at Louisiana State University have discovered a new species of shrew, the Sulawesi hairy-tailed shrew, which has thick hair on its tail and climbs trees. The discovery highlights the significant diversity of mammals in Indonesian islands, with many habitats remaining unexplored.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateMar 11, 2020

Climate change could threaten sea snails in mid-Atlantic waters

A Rutgers-led study found that climate change could threaten the survival and development of common whelk in the mid-Atlantic region. The species' spawning cycle is closely linked to temperature, which is expected to increase due to rising temperatures.

SourceRutgers University·JournalHelgoland Marine Research·DateMar 11, 2020

Detecting aromas in aged cognac

Scientists used gas chromatography and sensory panel analysis to uncover volatile compounds in aged cognac, finding terpenoids for the first time. The study reveals how specific compounds enhance or suppress flavors, shedding light on aging's impact on aromas.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 11, 2020

Study unveils striking disparities in health outcomes among 2 populations

A new study found significantly higher mortality rates, hospitalization rates, and deaths after hospitalization among low-income older adults dually enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid compared to those solely enrolled in Medicare. The study suggests that health inequities persist despite efforts to improve healthcare access.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateMar 11, 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.

A hidden electronic transition 'S0 → Tn' in heavy-atom-containing molecules

Scientists at Chiba University have discovered a previously overlooked electronic transition 'S0 → Tn' in heavy-atom-containing molecules exposed to visible light. The study reveals that this mechanism promotes radical reactions in photoreactions with visible light, which was not previously considered a main role.

SourceChiba University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMar 11, 2020

Rural Hondurans embrace cancer screening opportunities

A collaborative research team from Dartmouth and Honduras found a high level of participation in rural cancer screening events, resulting in over 88% of identified individuals seeking follow-up care. The 'multiphasic' approach involved multiple cancer screenings in one event, which was well-received by local communities.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalJCO Global Oncology·DateMar 11, 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.

Submersible sensors rapidly detect bacterial pollution in water

Environmental engineers at San Diego State University have developed a rapid detection system for bacterial contamination in water, which can alert authorities to pollution in real-time. The system uses tryptophan as a marker and has been tested in Alvarado Creek, where it correctly identified sewage leaks and spills.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 11, 2020

World's first experimental observation of a Kondo cloud

Researchers successfully measured and controlled the length of the Kondo cloud, a phenomenon discovered in the 1930s that explains resistance increase in certain metals. The findings provide insights into multiple impurity systems, including high-temperature superconductors.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2020

Gasdermin E: A new approach to cancer immunotherapy that could have broad reach

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have discovered a new approach to cancer immunotherapy by reactivating the gasdermin E gene, which can convert 'cold' tumors into 'hot' ones that the immune system can target. The team showed that re-introducing gasdermin E in mouse models triggered pyroptosis and suppressed tumor growth in var...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 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.

Natural bayou better when floods threaten Houston

Researchers at Rice University found that Buffalo Bayou's natural form is better at absorbing floodwater and preventing it from spilling over into heavily populated areas. The study shows that urban development in the Brays watershed increased the 100-year flood plain, making it more prone to flooding.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Flood Risk Management·DateMar 11, 2020

ESO telescope observes exoplanet where it rains iron

The ESO's Very Large Telescope has observed an ultra-hot giant exoplanet where it rains iron on its night side. Strong winds carry iron vapour from the day side to the cooler night side, where temperatures decrease, resulting in a unique and extreme phenomenon.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2020

Aging and nutrients competition determine changes in microbiota

Research at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência uncovered two new mechanisms in the microbiota's evolution, driven by aging and nutrient competition. In mice, E. coli adapts to inflammation and scarce nutrients in older individuals, leading to potentially pathogenic changes.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 11, 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.

Addressing HPV vaccination concerns

A randomized controlled trial found that tailored messages addressing HPV vaccine concerns improved intent to vaccinate, while a bundled approach was less effective. The study suggests that personalized messaging may be essential for increasing HPV vaccination uptake among hesitant parents.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMar 11, 2020

Understanding how monomer sequence affects conductance in 'molecular wires'

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a method to precisely control the sequence in synthetic polymers, allowing them to study charge transport properties and measure conductance through single chains. This work has significant implications for designing and manipulating materials with designer properties.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 11, 2020

New nano strategy fights superbugs

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new strategy to destroy antibiotic-resistant genes, known as superbugs, in sewage system wastewater. The nano technology traps and degrades these genetic remnants before they can infect other bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 11, 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.

Doctors group sues California for failing to add processed meat to state carcinogen list

A doctors' group is suing California for neglecting to add processed meat, such as hot dogs and bacon, to the state's cancer-causing substances list under Proposition 65. This move comes after experts classified consumption of processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, increasing risks of colorectal, breast, prostate, pancreatic, and ov...

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·DateMar 11, 2020

Breastfeeding guide aims to help docs ease moms through tough 1st week

A new guide seeks to provide healthcare providers with useful tools and information to support new mothers with the challenges of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months. The guide addresses gaps in knowledge and support created in previous decades, providing evidence-based solutions for breastfeeding management.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 11, 2020

Vision problems may be common in people with Parkinson's disease

A study published in Neurology found that 82% of people with Parkinson's reported one or more eye problems, compared to 48% without the disease. Eye problems often interfered with daily life for 68% of those with Parkinson's, affecting activities like driving and reading.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 11, 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.

Sorry, Einstein: Hard workers may make better role models than geniuses

New research suggests that scientists who are known for their hard work, like Thomas Edison, are more motivating than those who are viewed as naturally brilliant, like Albert Einstein. The findings dispel myths about what it takes to succeed in science and can help optimize science education.

SourcePenn State·JournalBasic and Applied Social Psychology·DateMar 11, 2020

Professor Peter Girguis awarded Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation grant

Professor Peter Girguis has been awarded a five-year grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to pursue innovative research on symbiosis in aquatic systems. His team will use engineering approaches, genome sequencing, and protein analysis to understand how these symbioses change their environments.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 11, 2020

People want more compensation, security for their genomic data

A recent survey found that people are more willing to donate genomic data if they have control over its use and can be compensated for their involvement. The study, which involved 2,020 survey respondents, also revealed that nearly half of participants would only provide their data in exchange for payment.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 11, 2020

African Americans, Hispanics less likely to receive recommended lung cancer imaging

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found that African American patients were half as likely as non-Hispanic whites to receive PET-CT imaging for non-small cell lung cancer, while Hispanics received it 70% as frequently. This disparity may be due to limited access to specialized imaging equipment and unconscious bias.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 11, 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.

Observed: An exoplanet where it rains iron

Researchers detected chemical variations between day and night on the planet, revealing the presence of iron vapour condensing into drops on the dark side. This discovery provides insights into the extreme climate conditions on ultra-hot giant exoplanets.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2020

Grainger engineers voice localization techniques for smart speakers

Researchers from the University of Illinois have developed a system called VoLoc that uses microphone array recordings and room echoes to infer user location within a home. This technology can improve smart devices' support for available skills, such as turn-on-light or increase-temperature commands.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateMar 11, 2020

More genes associated with canine hip dys­plasia and os­teoarth­ritis discovered

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered novel loci associated with hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis in German Shepherds, highlighting the hereditary nature and polygenic background of the disorder. The study sheds light on the genetic factors influencing complex diseases and may lead to better treatment options in the future.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBMC Genomics·DateMar 11, 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.