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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 20


Page 20 of 42

Highly efficient charge-to-spin interconversion in graphene heterostructures

Researchers at KAIST have developed a graphene-based active spintronic component that efficiently generates, controls, and detects spin currents. By stacking graphene on top of 2H-TaS2, they increased the spin-orbit coupling of graphene, paving the way for its use in spintronic applications.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature·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.

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.

SourceAustralian Institute of Marine Science·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalNature Immunology·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.

Stretch and flow: Research sheds light on unusual properties of well-known materials

Scientists have combined experiments with simulations to reveal new insights into the flow behavior of elasto-visco-plastic materials. Their research highlights the importance of including elasticity in future models, which is crucial for understanding how these materials behave under different conditions.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·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.

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.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·Journalnpj Quantum Information·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·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.

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.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateMay 18, 2020

Genome study links DNA changes to the risks of specific breast cancer subtypes

A recent study has identified 32 new sites on the human genome where variations in DNA appear to alter the risks of getting specific subtypes of breast cancer. The analysis, covering over 266,000 women, may eventually improve the ability to predict breast cancer risks at a subtype level.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

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

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.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 18, 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.

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.

SourceITMO University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

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

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.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMay 18, 2020

CU researchers publish study on nerve cell repair in Nature Neuroscience

Researchers at CU School of Medicine have discovered that precise motor learning stimulates cellular processes to improve recovery after nerve cell damage. The study found that mature oligodendrocytes can contribute to repairing the nervous system by generating new myelin sheaths.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 18, 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.

New study shows persistence of meltwater biodiversity despite glacier loss

A recent study reveals that specialized cold-water invertebrates have persisted in high-elevation streams of Glacier National Park, even after glacier melting. Researchers found that these species may be more resilient to glacier recession than previously thought.

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

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChemical Science·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceClemson University·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMay 18, 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.

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·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.

BrainHealth Research advances understanding of differences in effects of cannabis use

A recent study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found sex-related differences in the effects of cannabis use on brain activity and subjective response. Neural activity primarily underlies response to cannabis cues, with no differences between male and female users, while female users exhibit more intense subjective craving.

SourceCenter for BrainHealth·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMay 18, 2020

Pregnant and lactating women with COVID-19: Scant clinical research

Clinical trials of COVID-19 treatments have left pregnant and breastfeeding women without safety data, forcing a difficult decision between medication use and breastfeeding. The lack of research on drug transfer into breast milk poses a risk to infants.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalVaccine·DateMay 18, 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.

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.

SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateMay 18, 2020

Study finds that aging neurons accumulate DNA damage

Researchers discovered that aging neurons accumulate DNA damage, particularly oxidative 8-oxo-guanine lesions. Reactivating the enzyme HDAC1 can help repair this damage and improve cognitive function in mice.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPLOS Medicine·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.

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.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 18, 2020

Lack of insects in cities limits breeding success of urban birds

Researchers found that providing high-quality supplementary food boosts urban great tits' breeding success, with insects playing a crucial role in their development. Urban areas support fewer insects than natural habitats, leading to reduced breeding success.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustralian Archaeology·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 18, 2020

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.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateMay 17, 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.

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.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2020

Stitching together the structure of the DNA replication toolbelt

An international team studied the Pol δ-DNA-PCNA complex to understand DNA replication and how it can malfunction. The team found that PCNA acts as a platform for different processing enzymes, similar to a toolbelt with an array of tools.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 17, 2020

Tobacco companies minting it before Wednesday's UK menthol cigarette ban

New research found that tobacco companies continued to sell and promote menthol products despite a four-year phasing-in period for the UK's menthol cigarette ban. The study reveals that industry experts developed new products to circumvent the ban, including menthol filters and flavour cards.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalTobacco Control·DateMay 17, 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.

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.

SourceFlinders University·JournalGlobal Chinese·DateMay 17, 2020

Eavesdropping crickets drop from the sky to evade capture by bats

Researchers discovered sword-tailed crickets stop mid-air when hearing loud bat calls, ensuring they fall away from predators. These crickets use high-amplitude threshold to distinguish between bat and harmless katydid calls in noisy rainforests.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMay 17, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 16, 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.

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.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateMay 15, 2020

Observation of intervalley transitions can boost valleytronic science and technology

Researchers have observed light emission from intervalley transitions in monolayer WSe2, which can be used to read out valley information and potentially lead to new types of devices. The transition involves an electron and a hole in opposite valleys recombining with the assistance of defects or lattice vibrations.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 15, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustralian Psychologist·DateMay 15, 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.