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Science News Archive May 2020


Page 20 of 42

Complement genes add to sex-based vulnerability in lupus and schizophrenia

Research found that complement gene variants contribute to sex-based differences in vulnerability to autoimmune diseases lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, as well as mental disorder schizophrenia. Complement protein levels vary between men and women, with different age-related elevations and effects on disease incidence.

Fish feces reveals which species eat crown-of-thorns

A study using fish poo and gut contents found that 18 coral reef fish species consume young or adult crown-of-thorns starfish on the reef. This discovery could help control destructive pest populations and shed light on why some reef areas have fewer starfish than others.

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 study shows how our surveillance system is triggered inside tissues

A new study has shed light on the development of tissue resident surveillance cells, a type of T-cell that protects against external invaders. The research found that regulatory T-cells play a crucial role in generating these cells by promoting the local availability of specific molecules, such as TGF-beta.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The neglected heating sector

A comparative study by researchers from RIFS finds that both Germany and the UK can do more to mitigate climate change in the heating sector. The authors recommend introducing a commitment to phasing out high-carbon heating and embedding it in planned policy interventions.

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.

UCLA physicists develop world's best quantum bits

Researchers at UCLA have developed a new qubit with nearly ideal properties, enabling ultra-low error rate quantum devices. This breakthrough should impact various areas of quantum information science, paving the way for large-scale NISQ devices.

Aluminum may affect lead levels in drinking water

Researchers found that aluminum can increase lead's solubility under certain conditions, leading to higher levels of lead in drinking water. This discovery was made by studying the interaction between aluminum and phosphate in a lab setting.

A deeper connection to hyaline fibromatosis syndrome

A study published in Developmental Cell reveals the CMG2 protein interacts with collagen VI, regulating its concentration inside cells. In Hyaline Fibromatosis Syndrome, a mutation prevents CMG2 protein function, leading to collagen VI accumulation.

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.

Spatial map of human dental caries

The study reveals a rotund organization of concentric layers of different bacteria in a corona-like structure, with Streptococcus mutans at the center. This structure creates an acidic microenvironment that causes enamel dissolution and the onset of caries.

Antibody neutralizes SARS and COVID-19 coronaviruses

Researchers identified an antibody, called S309, that can inhibit related coronaviruses, including the cause of COVID-19. The antibody targets a protein structure critical to the coronaviruses' ability to infect cells, neutralizing them and potentially providing a treatment for severe illness.

From digital to optical

Researchers from ITMO University have successfully created an all-optical switch based on a metal-organic framework, which can be synthesized in vitro and is useful for developing ultrafast optical memory cells. The switch operates faster, more efficiently, and consumes less energy than traditional electronic devices.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Changes in the Neoproterozoic phosphorus cycle

A significant increase in phosphorite deposition during the Ediacaran Period may have contributed to the emergence of large animals. The study found that nutrient upwelling from the oceans, rather than terrestrial erosion, drove this change.

A new tool to map the flow of info within living cells

Researchers created a way to study and map intercellular signaling to understand cell movement mechanisms in healthy cells and disease states like cancer metastasis. The new tool uses microscopy tools and mathematical methods to visualize protein activity and quantify regulation of signaling networks.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

High hopes for new-age rubber

Researchers have discovered a new kind of rubber and catalyst that can be used to make flexible, repairable, sustainable objects. The new rubber material can be completely repaired and returned to its original strength in minutes, even at room temperature, with an amine catalyst.

New study by Clemson scientists could pave way to cure of global parasite

A newly released study by Clemson University scientists provides evidence that disrupting heme production in Toxoplasma gondii could be an effective therapeutic strategy. Researchers found that using herbicides to inhibit the parasite's growth can deny it an essential nutrient, potentially leading to a cure.

Spending on primary care vs. other US health care expenditures

A national health care survey from 2002 to 2016 found primary care spending significantly higher than other areas of healthcare expenditure. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, highlights the substantial financial investment in primary care services.

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.

Quantum Hall effect 'reincarnated' in 3D topological materials

Researchers have found a link between 2D and 3D phases of topological matter, reviving the quantum Hall effect in 3D superconductors. This connection could enable fault-tolerant quantum computing using entangled states protected by long-range quantum entanglement.

What does drought mean for endangered California salmon?

A new study finds that certain stream pools act as drought refuges for salmon, providing conditions necessary to support survival during extreme conditions. The research provides insight into the role of habitat fragmentation in threatening salmon survival and informs strategies for conservation efforts.

COVID-19: Lessons to learn about the first 4.0 pandemic

The study reveals the coincidence of biological and social factors, including the Chinese New Year celebrations and increased international mobility, which amplified the outbreak. The authors also emphasize the importance of addressing environmental alterations and human activities related to wild animals to prevent future pandemics.

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.

US inroads to better Ebola vaccine

Researchers at Flinders University and US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Disease have developed a highly protective Ebola vaccine that appears to be effective against lethal infections in mice. The vaccine, combined with an Advax™ adjuvant, shows promise for preventing future Ebola outbreaks in Africa.

A scalable method of diagnosing HVAC sensor faults in smart buildings

Researchers have created a distributed sensor fault diagnosis algorithm to detect and isolate multiple sensor faults in large-scale HVAC systems. The algorithm can be applied to both existing Building Management Systems and plug-in IoT systems, notifying users and operators about faulty measurements and sensor locations.

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.

Higher fibre saves lives, but food processing may remove benefits

Two studies from University of Otago researchers found that a higher fibre intake can reduce premature mortality by 35% in adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. However, food processing may dilute the health benefits of whole grains, leading to increased blood glucose levels and weight.

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables may protect heart health

Researchers found that a short-term diet high in fruits and vegetables significantly lowers markers for subclinical cardiac damage and strain in adults without preexisting cardiovascular disease. The DASH trial data suggests that increased consumption of potassium, magnesium, and fiber may partly explain the observed effects.

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.

Aboriginal rock art, frontier conflict and a swastika

Researchers discovered 188 engravings in a remote South Australian rockshelter that reveal traumatic period of European invasion and ongoing impacts of colonial settlement. A swastika symbol was found, etched in 1932, marking the first acts of trespass and desecration by police parties.

Light drives injection

Researchers develop a molecular light switch to control the T3SS injectisome, enabling precise and efficient protein delivery into host cells. This technology has potential applications in biotechnology and medicine, including tumor therapy.

New ECU research finds 'Dr. Google' is almost always wrong

A new study found that online symptom checkers are only accurate about a third of the time, and 'Dr. Google' is often incorrect in its diagnoses. The research also found that triage advice provided more accurate results, but lacked quality control and transparency.

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.

A theoretical boost to nano-scale devices

A new computational approach calculates the quasi-Fermi levels in molecular junctions, offering a better understanding of semiconductor devices at the nano-scale. This breakthrough could enable more accurate descriptions of underlying physics and improve the efficiency of nano-scale transistors.

Chinese to rise as a global language

A Flinders University academic challenges traditional arguments that Chinese written characters hinder its global adoption. Dr Jeffrey Gil presents four arguments supporting the possibility of Chinese becoming a global language, citing technological advancements and historical precedents.

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.

Heart attack prevention lags for people with stroke, peripheral artery disease

Researchers found that patients with peripheral artery disease or stroke were less likely than those with coronary artery disease to receive recommended treatments to prevent heart attack. Lifestyle changes and medication, including statins and aspirin, are crucial for all three types of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Worldwide IOF-ISCD survey of bone densitometry units published

A global survey of 121 fracture liaison services from 31 countries found that adherence to basic DXA quality and reporting procedures was confirmed by less than 50% of services. The study emphasizes the need for targeted education for DXA machine operators and interpreters, particularly in adopting globally-endorsed standards.

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.

Binge drinkers beware, Drunkorexia is calling

A study found that 82.7% of female university students had engaged in Drunkorexic behaviors, including skipping meals and exercising after drinking to reduce calorie intake from alcohol. Researchers identified two key social norms driving these behaviors: consuming alcohol and thinness.