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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 5


Page 5 of 41

Tree rings could pin down Thera volcano eruption date

Researchers at the University of Arizona Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research used a hybrid approach to assign calendar dates to tree rings, potentially pinning down the Thera volcano eruption date. The study spans over 2,000 years and provides context for civilizations in the Bronze and Iron Ages.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2020

New therapeutic strategies proposed for some lung and kidney cancers

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center propose using glucose transporter inhibitors to treat tumors with high expression of the SLC7A11 amino acid transporter. This approach targets cancer cells' dependency on glucose for survival, selectively killing 'addicted' cells.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 30, 2020

New Yorkers think feds not doing enough for the city and state

A majority of New York City residents (56%) think federal assistance is insufficient to manage the COVID-19 crisis, while anxiety over job loss and housing issues continues to escalate. The pandemic's impact on mental health is stark, with 44% reporting feelings of nervousness or depression.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateMar 30, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How social media makes it difficult to identify real news

A study by Ohio State University found that social media users pay less attention to the source of content when it's jumbled with entertainment, leading to a higher risk of mistaking satire for real news. This can result in the spread of misinformation and fake news.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNew Media & Society·DateMar 30, 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.

Studies confirm breast surgery health benefits

Studies confirm that breast reduction surgery significantly improves physical health, including pain levels and physical function, as well as mental wellbeing. Women of all shapes and sizes benefit from the surgery, including overweight or obese individuals who were previously barred from the procedure.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBMJ Open·DateMar 29, 2020

Unearthing gut secret paves way for targeted treatments

Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a complex array of sensory nerve endings in the lower colon that can detect sensory stimuli and communicate with the spinal cord. This breakthrough could lead to new medications to treat disorders related to gut-to-brain communication.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateMar 29, 2020

World-first tool to improve COVID-19 diagnosis, free and online

A new online platform, CovED, aims to improve COVID-19 diagnosis by providing healthcare workers with rapid training and image-based diagnostic tools. Developed by DetectED-X, the platform can be accessed for free and is supported by leading corporations and healthcare experts.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateMar 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.

Modern science reveals ancient secret in Japanese literature

Researchers from The Graduate University for Advanced Studies uncovered the oldest Japanese astronomical record of a 'red sign' which may have been caused by a strong magnetic storm. This ancient literary reference was previously believed to be an unexplained phenomenon but modern science has now provided a convincing explanation.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·DateMar 28, 2020

Do ER caregivers' on-the-job emotions affect patient care?

A University of Massachusetts Amherst researcher studied ER caregivers' on-the-job emotions and found that hospital and societal issues trigger overwhelmingly negative emotions. The study highlights the need for emotional intelligence training in healthcare education to promote meaningful discussion about emotions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·DateMar 28, 2020

Machine learning puts a new spin on spin models

A team of researchers used machine learning to study complex spin models, revealing key similarities between distinct phases. By training an AI on one model and applying it to another, they found that the algorithm could correctly classify phases and identify temperature transitions.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 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.

New drug could potentially offer better treatment for chronic heart failure

Vericiguat, a novel guanylate cyclase stimulator agent, has shown significant benefits in reducing negative health events in patients with worsening chronic heart failure. The VICTORIA trial demonstrated an absolute reduction of 4.2% in patients already receiving optimal care.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2020

Cardiovascular implications of fatal outcomes of patients with COVID-19

A study published in JAMA Network found that COVID-19 is associated with increased risk of fatal cardiovascular outcomes in patients with underlying cardiovascular disease. The researchers evaluated the relationship between pre-existing heart conditions and myocardial injury on patient mortality rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 27, 2020

A plant-based diet helps to prevent and manage asthma, according to new review

A new review published in Nutrition Reviews suggests that a plant-based diet can help prevent and manage asthma. The study found that consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods can be beneficial for asthma patients, whereas dairy products and high-fat foods can exacerbate symptoms.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateMar 27, 2020

Copper boosts pig growth, and now we know why

Researchers found that copper hydroxychloride improves pigs' ability to utilize fat after absorption, leading to increased energy utilization. The element enhances lipid metabolism in the liver, adipose tissue, and muscle, enabling better feed conversion rates and economic savings.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateMar 27, 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.

Multi-stage deformation process in high-entropy alloys at ultra-low temperatures revealed

A research team discovered that high-entropy alloys exhibit exceptional mechanical properties at ultra-low temperatures due to multiple deformation mechanisms. The study used in-situ neutron diffraction technique to reveal the sequence of deformation mechanisms, including dislocation slip, stacking faults, twinning, and serrations.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 27, 2020

Bubbles go with the flow

Fluid dynamics experts have long assumed that fluids flow without slipping at solid boundaries, but recent research reveals this may not be true. Tiny microbubbles formed by shear forces can cause slippage, potentially reducing energy losses in industrial applications such as gas and oil suppliers.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 27, 2020

Triple-threat genetic toolkit aids with eco-friendly chemical production

CABBI researchers have developed a triad of innovative tools to engineer low-pH-tolerant yeast Issatchenkia orientalis for production of valuable bioproducts. The three tools facilitate genetic expression, DNA assembly, and stability in the yeast strain, enabling its use as a robust organic acid producer.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalMetabolic Engineering·DateMar 27, 2020

How customers search for hedonic versus utilitarian purchases

A new study in the Journal of Marketing finds that consumers use social media and on-site product pages early in their journey for hedonic purchases, while utilizing third-party reviews and search engines closer to the time of utilitarian purchase. The study offers actionable insights for retailers, including investing in social media ...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 27, 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.

Gene mutation enhances cognitive flexibility in mice, NIH study suggests

A recent NIH study has identified a genetic mutation that improves cognitive flexibility in mice by modifying a protein regulating potassium channels. The mutation was found to enhance the ability of mice to adapt to changing situations, such as finding a relocated platform.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2020

A funnel of light

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have discovered a new quantum state of matter that enables light to be accumulated at a specific point in an optical fiber. This effect, known as a 'light funnel', has the potential to improve the sensitivity of optical detectors and unlock new technological applications.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·DateMar 27, 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.

Scientists predict the size of plastics animals can eat

Researchers created an equation to estimate plastic ingestion by animals, finding that the largest piece eaten is about 5% of the animal's body length. The study analyzed over 2,000 animals and found shocking examples of plastic pollution, including a sperm whale with hosepipes and flower pots inside.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 2020

Physicist from Hannover develops new photon source for tap-proof communication

A team of researchers has developed a new method for generating quantum-entangled photons in the previously inaccessible spectral range of 2.1 micrometers. This breakthrough can enhance the security of satellite-based communications by making end-to-end encryption possible on sunny and cloudy days.

SourceCluster of Excellence PhoenixD / Leibniz University Hannover·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 27, 2020

Potential effects of coronaviruses on the cardiovascular system

The study examines coronavirus disease 2019's (COVID-19) effects on the cardiovascular system, revealing potential long-term consequences. Researchers highlight the need for further investigation into the relationship between coronaviruses and cardiovascular health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 27, 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.

Researchers develop faster way to replace bad info in networks

Researchers from North Carolina State University and the Army Research Office have developed a new model for how competing pieces of information spread in online social networks and IoT. The findings suggest that network size plays a significant role in displacing old data with new, accurate information.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE/ACM Transactions on Networking·DateMar 27, 2020

Better, safer batteries

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new fluorinated cyclic phosphate solvent electrolyte that improves upon existing ethylene carbonate, offering nonflammable properties and increased voltage tolerance. This breakthrough could lead to longer journeys in electric vehicles and improved fire safety in home energy storage.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 27, 2020

Global supply chains as a way to curb carbon emissions

Global supply chains account for 10% of all global carbon emissions, which has tripled between 1995 and 2012. Researchers call these emissions "carbon-in-transit," as products move across borders with embedded carbon emissions.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEnergy Economics·DateMar 27, 2020

'McDonaldization' based analysis of Russian social networks

A study found that Russian social media platforms like Facebook and VKontakte exhibit characteristics of McDonaldization, a form of rationality that prioritizes efficiency and profit over human values. This process can lead to the displacement of individuals from meaningful relationships and the loss of personal autonomy.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalRUDN Journal of Sociology·DateMar 27, 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.

Animals keep viruses in the sea in balance

A recent study by Jennifer Welsh found that various sea creatures, such as sponges, crabs, and cockles, can remove a significant portion of virus particles from seawater. These findings suggest that non-host organisms play an important role in regulating virus populations in marine environments.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 27, 2020

I won't have what he's having: The brain and socially motivated behavior

A team of researchers found a specific brain region responsible for influencing social behaviors and reward valuations in monkeys. They discovered that this region, the lateral hypothalamus, plays a crucial role in shaping socially motivated behavior.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 27, 2020

Highly efficient and stable double layer solar cell developed

A new type of solar cell with a wide bandgap perovskite material has been developed to improve efficiency and durability. The researchers achieved a 26.7% efficient power conversion rate in their double layer solar cell, with the material retaining 80% of its initial capability after 1,000 hours of continuous illumination.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience·DateMar 27, 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.

ALMA resolves gas impacted by young jets from supermassive black hole

Astronomers used ALMA to observe a galaxy with young, powerful jets ejected from a supermassive black hole. The team found clear evidence of disrupted gaseous clouds impacted by the jets' high speeds, providing insight into the evolutionary process of galaxies in the early Universe.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 27, 2020

A new way to study HIV's impact on the brain

Researchers created a laboratory model of three types of brain cells to study HIV's impact on the central nervous system. The model revealed that HIV infection can take a toll on the brain, causing inflammation and damage. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce inflammation by around 70%, but also triggers its own unique response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 27, 2020

Astronaut urine to build moon bases

Researchers find that urea in astronaut urine can be used to soften concrete, making it more pliable and resistant to extreme temperatures. The discovery could help reduce costs associated with transporting construction materials to the Moon.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateMar 27, 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.

Double-walled nanotubes have electro-optical advantages

Researchers at Rice University have discovered that double-walled carbon nanotubes can create a staggered band alignment, allowing for more efficient separation of positive and negative charges in photovoltaic applications. This effect is caused by the interplay of different curvatures between the inner and outer walls of the nanotube.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 27, 2020

Benefiting from the national gene vector biorepository

The National Gene Vector Biorepository (NGVB) provides valuable resources to gene therapy investigators, including 93 unique reagents and a searchable database of animal safety studies. These resources aim to decrease compliance risks, address clinical trial funding periods, and reduce costs.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateMar 27, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Study compares funding, research productivity for 2 diseases

Researchers compared federal and foundation funding for sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis, finding that higher funding was associated with increased research productivity and faster drug development. The study suggests that increasing funding could improve treatment options for these two diseases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 27, 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.

Cancer care in the time of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted cancer care delivery, leading to concerns about treatment delays and reduced access to care. To address these challenges, experts recommend adopting flexible approaches that prioritize patient needs and minimize disruptions.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 27, 2020