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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 19


Page 19 of 42

Direct control of dendritic cells for tracking and immune modulation

Dendritic cells can be labeled using an engineered sugar molecule that is taken up by the cells and displayed on their surfaces, allowing them to track DCs in vivo. The researchers also developed a system to modulate the behavior of DCs via click chemistry, which has great promise for treating cancer and other diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 18, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Meeting of minds as Oden and Turing Institutes sign MOU

The Oden Institute and Alan Turing Institute have signed an MoU to deliver research advances in artificial intelligence, computational science, and data-centric engineering. The collaboration aims to address global challenges such as net zero greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateMay 18, 2020

Mussel reefs heighten risk of microplastic exposure and consumption

Researchers found that mussel reefs slow sea water flowing over them, increasing turbulence and tripling the amount of ingested plastic. The study suggests natural reef structures are natural sinks for plastics, posing a problem for commercially valuable species like blue mussels.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 18, 2020

Factors associated with firearm suicide risk

Researchers identified sociodemographic factors associated with firearm suicide risk in US adults, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study found that certain demographic characteristics increased the likelihood of firearm suicide, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 18, 2020

Cavity-causing bacteria assemble an army of protective microbes on human teeth

A team from the University of Pennsylvania and Georgia Tech discovered that cavity-causing bacteria, Streptococcus mutans, are encased in a protective community of other microbes forming a unique spatial organization. This structure is crucial to how they cause tooth decay and can be used to target the pathogenic core of dental biofilms.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 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.

New study records dual hand use in early human relative

Researchers analyzed fossil hand joints to find evidence of dual hand use in ancient humans. The discovery supports the idea that the transition to walking on two legs was gradual, with early humans using their hands for both precision grips and branch grasping.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 18, 2020

New study projects ocean warming impact on Antarctic krill

A new study found that ocean warming will alter Antarctic krill growth habitats, with a moderate impact across 85% of the Southern Ocean. Krill are expected to move further south and shift in seasonal conditions, affecting conservation efforts and the management of the fishery.

SourceUniversity of Tasmania·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 18, 2020

Mars: Where mud flows like lava

A team of researchers recreated Martian conditions in a low-pressure chamber, observing the flow of mud that behaves similarly to pahoehoe lava flows on Earth. The study confirms sedimentary volcanism is possible on Mars, prompting a reevaluation of geological structures previously attributed to lava flows.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 18, 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.

Likelihood of life and intelligence emerging

A Bayesian statistical analysis of life's emergence and development on Earth predicts that if history were repeated, life would likely emerge similarly early. However, the emergence of intelligence might not guarantee a repeat occurrence due to its rarity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Liver cancer: Awareness of hepatitis D must be raised

A study found that people infected with Hepatitis D have up to three times the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma compared to those infected only with Hepatitis B. Researchers are calling for increased awareness and screening of Hepatitis D in patients with Hepatitis B.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateMay 18, 2020

Efficient, 'green' quantum-dot solar cells exploit defects

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have developed high-efficiency quantum-dot solar cells without toxic elements like lead or cadmium. These devices exhibit remarkable defect tolerance, making them promising for practical utility.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateMay 18, 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 use pressure to make liquid magnetism breakthrough

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory use pressure to create a magnetic liquid, potentially leading to breakthroughs in high-temperature superconductivity and quantum computing. The discovery involves slowly squeezing two small diamonds together with a magnetic material between them, resulting in the emergence of a spin liquid state.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 18, 2020

For people in diverse areas, community identity supersedes racial, ethnic differences

Research finds that people living in diverse areas perceive themselves and others as part of the same local community, regardless of ethnic and cultural differences. In contrast, homogeneous areas maintain racial stereotypes, making it harder for people to adapt to diversity.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Identification of a determining factor in luminal cancer cells

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified CPEB2 as a crucial factor in the development of luminal breast cancer. The study found that CPEB2 is essential for protein synthesis after hormonal stimulation, leading to less cell proliferation and better prognosis in patients with low expression levels.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 18, 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.

Study traces brain-to-gut connections

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute have identified neural pathways connecting the brain to the stomach, suggesting a bidirectional communication network that influences digestion and gut health. This discovery provides new insights into common gut disorders and may lead to the development of brain-based therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Long-term data show hurricanes are getting stronger

A study analyzing nearly 40 years of hurricane satellite imagery found a global increase in maximum sustained winds, consistent with expectations of how hurricanes respond to a warming world. The research built on previous work identifying trends in hurricane intensification and poleward migrations of hurricanes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

The malaria parasite P. vivax can remain in the spleen upon expression of certain proteins

Research reveals that malaria parasite P. vivax adheres to human spleen cells via variant proteins, allowing it to hide from the immune system and evade elimination. This finding suggests a double role for the spleen in malaria pathology and opens new avenues for vaccine targets and exposure markers.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

SWOG researchers go digital at ASCO20 Virtual Scientific Program

Researchers from SWOG will make 31 digital presentations at the ASCO20 Virtual Scientific Program, reporting on trials involving chemotherapy regimens, financial toxicity, and multiple myeloma treatments. The studies found that pre-surgery chemotherapy can be done safely and has good outcomes regardless of the drugs used.

SourceSWOG·DateMay 18, 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.

Study finds people are more satisfied after quitting the status quo

A new study published in The Review of Economic Studies found that using a coin toss to decide on an important change leads to higher satisfaction and happiness. People who made changes were more likely to report the same decision again in the future.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateMay 18, 2020

Technology makes tissues elastic and lasting for easier imaging

A team of MIT researchers has developed ELAST technology, which provides a fast way to fluorescently label cells, proteins, and molecules in brain and other large tissues. The technology enables fully reversible tissue shape transformation while preserving structural and molecular information.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 18, 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.

NASA finds heavy water vapor concentration rings eye of Cyclone Amphan

The NASA Aqua satellite revealed a unique feature of Cyclone Amphan: high concentrations of water vapor surrounding the storm's eye. This characteristic can lead to intense rainfall and stronger storms. The satellite data showed coldest cloud top temperatures as low as minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 18, 2020

Climate change will bring bigger swings in European summer temperatures

A new study found that climate change will lead to more erratic summer temperatures in Europe, with hotter and colder days becoming more frequent and unpredictable. In contrast, winter temperatures are expected to become less variable, making it harder for humans and nature to adapt.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 18, 2020

Probing materials at deep-Earth conditions to decipher Earth's evolutionary tale

Researchers have developed a way to study liquid silicates at extreme conditions, providing clues about the Earth's origin story and the formation of rocky planets. The study may lead to a better understanding of the planet's early molten days and potentially unlock secrets of exoplanets.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Formate dehydrogenase reduces carbon dioxide to formic acid

Scientists have developed a catalyst that directly converts carbon dioxide into formic acid using sunlight. The discovery marks a significant step towards creating an artificial photosynthesis system that efficiently converts CO2 into organic molecules.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalNew Journal of Chemistry·DateMay 18, 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.

Emissions from road construction could be halved using today's technology

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology found that emissions from road construction could be halved using today's technology, including transport optimisation, recycling and reuse of excavation masses, material efficiency and design optimisation. The study also highlights the importance of replacing cement clinker as a binde...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateMay 18, 2020

Study reveals disparity between fibroblasts of different pancreatic diseases

Fibroblasts from distinct pancreatic diseases exhibit distinct genetic profiles and gene expression patterns, highlighting the importance of using disease-specific fibroblasts for research. The study also identifies a potential biomarker for distinguishing between pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis.

SourcePancreatic Cancer Research Fund·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 18, 2020

Arts-based method to detect school bullying

Researchers developed a graphical vignette method to assess bullying episodes in schools, allowing kids to express their opinions freely. The study found that this approach can provide an outlet for schoolchildren to formulate what's important to them personally, promoting openness and cooperation.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Qualitative Methods·DateMay 18, 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.

AI unlocks rhythms of 'deep sleep'

A new AI-powered algorithm has revolutionized the analysis of deep sleep patterns by automating the detection of K-complexes. The tool, developed by Flinders University researchers, outperforms human scoring methods in speed and accuracy, providing a more comprehensive understanding of sleep health.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 18, 2020

Accurate mapping of human travel patterns with global smartphone data

A new global mapping method provides accurate estimates of human mobility at a fine-grained resolution, capturing movements of 300 million mobile phone users. The study reveals patterns influenced by local geography, infrastructure, and income, with implications for disease propagation and disaster response.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·DateMay 18, 2020

Atrial fibrillation among overweight people is not due to fat

Researchers from Aarhus University find that large muscle mass and high fat-free weight are associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. The study suggests that the medical community should consider both body fat and lean body mass when assessing cardiovascular risk.

SourceAarhus University·JournalTrends in Cardiovascular Medicine·DateMay 18, 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.

New study estimates the odds of life and intelligence emerging beyond our planet

A new study using Bayesian statistics estimates the odds of life and intelligence emerging on planets similar to Earth, suggesting that complex extraterrestrial life is possible. The analysis indicates that life should have little problem spontaneously emerging on other planets, but intelligent life is less likely.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Scientists find brain center that 'profoundly' shuts down pain

Researchers at Duke University found a single brain area, the CeAga neurons, which can profoundly control pain by turning off dozens of other pain-promotion centers. By activating this center, they can alleviate pain behaviors in mice, suggesting potential future treatments for chronic pain.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 18, 2020

Mystery of lava-like flows on Mars solved by scientists

Researchers found that free flowing mud under Martian conditions behaves differently from on Earth due to rapid freezing and icy crust formation. The experimental mud flows formed similar shapes to 'pahoehoe' lava, explaining the formation of lava-like flow morphologies on Mars.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 18, 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.

Local climate unlikely to drive the early COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers found that climate conditions are unlikely to significantly impact the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic due to widespread susceptibility and rapid virus transmission. However, warmer climates may influence the size and timing of future pandemics.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateMay 18, 2020

Triassic igneous effects on carbon cycle

A study suggests that Triassic igneous rocks in Brazil caused the release of light carbon isotopes, which may have contributed to the end-Triassic extinction. The findings imply a significant impact on the Earth's carbon cycle during this period.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

New study sheds light on IBD patients with COVID

A new study analyzed data from an international registry of 528 IBD patients with COVID-19, finding that increasing age, comorbidities, and corticosteroids are associated with severe illness. The study also suggests that steroid-sparing treatments may be crucial for maintaining remission in IBD patients during the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 18, 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.

CUNY SPH weekly COVID-19 survey update week 10

The CUNY SPH COVID-19 tracking survey reveals that New Yorkers are uncertain about reopening public schools and colleges due to safety concerns. The survey found stark differences based on race and ethnicity, with higher rates of testing positivity among Hispanic/Latinx and African American populations.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateMay 18, 2020

Scientists discover mutation that enhances plant defense

Researchers identified a new gain-of-function mutation in the PHYTOALEXIN DEFICIENT4 (PAD4) gene, which enhances cell death during fungal infection and strengthens plant resistance to pathogens. The discovery sheds light on how plants control stress responses and provides insights into potential strategies for enhancing crop yields.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateMay 18, 2020

Persistence of cold-water biodiversity

Researchers found that specialized cold-water invertebrate communities have persisted through time even after deglaciation, suggesting that high-altitude streams and snow-fed water sources are key to preserving mountain biodiversity. The study used biological and glacier retreat data from Glacier National Park to support these findings.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

How experiencing traumatic stress leads to aggression

Research reveals that traumatic stress can strengthen amygdala pathways involved in emotion and social behaviors, leading to increased aggression. Deep brain stimulation may be a potential target for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related aggression.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateMay 18, 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.

New model gives wineries better data from existing tests

A new model developed by Washington State University researchers allows winemakers to easily test the chemical makeup of their red wine, providing accurate predictions on mouthfeel and color. The model simplifies lengthy tests, enabling technicians and winemakers to get useful results with relatively simple tests.

SourceWashington State University·JournalMolecules·DateMay 18, 2020

Notorious cancer protein mutations cooperate to proliferate disease

Mutations in TP53 and concomitant mutant p53 proteins in cancer cells have been found to accelerate tumorigenesis and metastasis. The researchers found that the combination of gain of function mutations and loss of heterozygosity provides protection against cell death, promoting a fibrotic microenvironment and inflammation pathways.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 18, 2020