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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 21


Page 21 of 42

Online romance scams: A modern form of fraud

Online romance scams have spread in Western societies, preying on women and middle-aged individuals with higher anxiety levels. Victims often experience double trauma from financial loss and emotional attachment, leading to shame upon discovery.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalClinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health·DateMay 15, 2020

Ten-year results display strong safety and efficacy profile for TPV device

The Melody transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) has demonstrated favorable outcomes for long-term function, safety, and efficacy in congenital patients. At 10-year follow-up, the study found high freedom rates from all-cause mortality, surgical reintervention, and catheter intervention.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 15, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

GlycoNet welcomes $16.3 million renewed federal funding

GlycoNet has secured a three-year investment of $16.3 million through the Canadian Glycomics Network to accelerate carbohydrate-based healthcare treatments, vaccines, and technologies. The network aims to improve the quality of life of Canadians by delivering solutions to important health issues.

SourceCanadian Glycomics Network·DateMay 15, 2020

New technology will show how RNA regulates gene activity

A new method called RADICL-seq has been developed to assess the role of long non-coding RNAs in regulating gene activity and chromatin structure. The technique allows for comprehensive mapping of RNA-chromatin interactions, providing important insights into how RNAs contribute to genome regulation.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2020

A soft touch for robotic hardware

Researchers developed soft robotic technology using reservoir computing, enabling flexible control of pneumatic artificial muscles. This innovation may lead to wearable rehabilitation devices, biomedical robots, and remote-sensing applications, all with improved safety and adaptability.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·DateMay 15, 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.

Like thunder without lightning

Researchers discovered black hole-neutron star mergers in globular star clusters can be detected using computer simulations. The study offers critical insights into the fusion of massive stellar objects, with potential implications for gravitational wave detection.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMay 15, 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.

The dreaming brain tunes out the outside world

Researchers found that the brain filters out external sounds during REM sleep, prioritizing meaningful speech during light sleep. This mechanism enables the brain to protect the dreaming phase, necessary for emotional balance and learning consolidation.

SourceCNRS·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 15, 2020

Federal program leads to intensified treatment for high-risk heart patients

A federal program that provides financial payments for monitoring and reducing cardiovascular risk in high-risk patients has led to intensified treatment. As part of the Million Hearts Cardiovascular Disease Risk Reduction Model, healthcare providers assessed patient risk and prescribed cholesterol-lowering and blood pressure-lowering ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 15, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers investigated ACEIs/ARBs in adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection and found no increased risk. The use of these drugs is recommended for patients with COVID-19 unless further data show otherwise.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2020

Applying the analogy method to improve the forecasting of strong convection

Researchers improve forecasting of strong convective weather using analogy method, which estimates occurrence environment for similar weather phenomena based on historical model forecasts. The method performs well in predicting potential for strong convection in different regions of China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMay 15, 2020

Light, fantastic: the path ahead for faster, smaller computer processors

Scientists in Australia and Germany have developed a hybrid structure combining traditional chip design with photonic architecture to overcome engineering barriers. This allows for efficient manipulation of light at the nanoscale, achieving data processing at 100 times smaller than the wavelength of light carrying the information.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 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.

Parents that know a child's preferences can assertively guide exercise

Children perceive coercion as reducing exercise motivation, while parent-child interaction, acceptance of lack of motivation, and participation in activities increase enthusiasm. Parents can support exercise motivation by taking into account children's interests and providing flexible boundaries for screen time.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMay 15, 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.

Early humans thrived in this drowned South African landscape

Reconstructing the paleoecology of the Paleo-Agulhas Plain reveals a diverse, verdant environment with abundant game and plant species. The lost landscape, which existed around 11,500 years ago, supported megafauna such as giant Cape Buffalo and giraffes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateMay 15, 2020

Chromium speciation in marine carbonates and implications on atmospheric oxygenation

A recent study reveals that Cr(III) dominates in all sedimentary marine carbonates, contradicting previous theories on the oxidation of Earth's early atmosphere and ocean. The findings suggest that either microbial reduction or preferential uptake of Cr(III) by carbonate may be responsible for the absence of Cr(VI) in these rocks.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMay 15, 2020

Impacts of different social distancing interventions detectable two weeks later, shows German modeling study

A German modeling study finds that three social distancing interventions led to a decline in COVID-19 cases, with the full effect only visible after a two-week delay. The study's results emphasize the need for policymakers to carefully consider when to lift restrictions to avoid worsening the situation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2020

Bizarre new species discovered... on Twitter

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen's Natural History Museum of Denmark have discovered a new species of parasitic fungus on American millipedes, found via a shared photo on Twitter. The newly discovered fungus, Troglomyces twitteri, is part of the Laboulbeniales order and has never been documented before.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalMycoKeys·DateMay 15, 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.

Treatment guidance for lung cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

A review of lung cancer treatments for patients with COVID-19 was published to assist oncologists in addressing the challenges presented by these patients. The guidelines balance risk of exposure and infection with effective care, taking into account existing comorbidities.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMay 15, 2020

Viral infection: Early indicators of vaccine efficacy

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have identified an earlier indicator of vaccine efficacy: specific white blood cells in the blood. The study shows that these cells can predict the quality of the immune response induced by vaccination, allowing for more rapid assessment of vaccine effectiveness.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalClinical & Translational Immunology·DateMay 15, 2020

NASA analyzes developing System 90L in Straits of Florida

A low-pressure area, System 90L, is developing in the Straits of Florida, with NASA's Aqua satellite measuring cloud top temperatures indicating stronger storms. The system has a high chance of development into a tropical or subtropical storm by Saturday.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 15, 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.

Model of critical infrastructures reveals vulnerabilities

A computer simulation model developed by Kansas State University researchers reveals significant vulnerabilities in the beef supply chain and transportation industry. The study found that packing plants are particularly susceptible to disruptions, which can have far-reaching economic consequences.

SourceKansas State University·DateMay 15, 2020

McMaster chemists develop foolproof new test to track the fats we eat

A team of researchers at McMaster University developed a reliable and accurate blood test to track individual fat intake. The test detects specific non-esterified fatty acids, allowing for an objective assessment of dietary fats and potentially informing public health policy.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateMay 15, 2020

Quantifying the impact of interventions

Researchers from Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization analyzed COVID-19 case numbers in Germany, examining the effectiveness of interventions. They found that measures slowed down the spread of the virus but did not completely halt it, and their model calculations show how different scenarios play out.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2020
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.

'Hot and messy' entanglement of 15 trillion atoms

Researchers successfully entangled a massive gas of 15 trillion atoms at 450 Kelvin, defying expectations and enabling ultra-sensitive magnetic field detection. The discovery has potential applications in brain science, neurosurgery, and other fields.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2020

Using big data to design gas separation membranes

Columbia engineers apply machine learning techniques to create a method that combines big data and machine learning to selectively design gas-filtering polymer membranes. The study successfully identifies promising materials that surpass current membrane performance limits, paving the way for commercial use.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 15, 2020

Exploring climate change impacts through popular proverbs

Researchers used popular proverbs to study climate change impacts on precipitation, snow cover, and flowering periods in Sierra Nevada. Many proverbs were found to be inaccurate due to changes in climate conditions, but they also provided novel information on scientifically undocumented climate change impacts.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalRegional Environmental Change·DateMay 15, 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.

Indigenous protection

A team of anthropologists, physicians, and tribal leaders developed a strategy to manage COVID-19 among the Tsimane indigenous population in Bolivia. The plan aims to provide a general template for other indigenous groups, promoting collaboration and minimizing harm due to the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 15, 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.

Pine martens like to have neighbors -- but not too near

Researchers tracked pine martens in Wales, finding they settled more rapidly when released near neighbors. This behavior allows for efficient territory creation, influencing their mobile range of approximately 9.5 km2. The presence of pine martens also affects grey squirrels' behavior, forcing them to alter their ranging patterns.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateMay 15, 2020

Low-income adults less likely to receive preventive heart disease care

Research shows low-income adults are less likely to receive preventive heart disease care, including cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. Socioeconomic disparities worsen during crises like COVID-19, highlighting the need for city-level interventions and public health policies to address these gaps.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 15, 2020

Estimated rates of COVID-19 in border counties in Iowa vs. Illinois

This study compares COVID-19 cases in Iowa's border counties, which didn't issue a stay-at-home order, to Illinois' border counties that did. The analysis found higher estimated rates of COVID-19 in Illinois' border counties, suggesting the stay-at-home order had a significant impact on case numbers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 15, 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.

Blood clotting abnormalities reveal COVID-19 patients at risk for thrombotic events

Researchers found critically ill COVID-19 patients with severe blood clotting who were at high risk of developing complications like renal failure, venous blood clots, and stroke. The study linked blood clotting measurements with patient outcomes, suggesting early testing may help identify and treat dangerous complications.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 15, 2020

AJR details COVID-19 infection control, radiographer protection in CT exam areas

Radiologists at Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School implemented strict disinfection measures, including air disinfector use and ultraviolet light, in CT examination rooms to reduce COVID-19 transmission risk. Radiographers followed personal protective equipment protocols, with separate zones for clean and contaminated areas.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 15, 2020

Tiny particle, big payoff

UC Riverside scientists have solved a 20-year-old genetics puzzle, differentiating three particles of Brome Mosaic virus. The discovery could lead to ways to protect wheat, barley, and other crops from the virus.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 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.

Persistent inequitable exposure to air pollution in Salt Lake County schools

A new study reveals that minority students and charter schools experience higher concentrations of PM 2.5 levels even on clean air days, highlighting the need for policies to protect school-aged children from environmental harm. The research used a community-university partnership to analyze data from 174 public schools in Salt Lake Co...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateMay 15, 2020

Sea skaters are a super source of inspiration

A KAUST study investigates the insect's physical features and movement to evade sea dangers, revealing a highly water-repellant waxy coating and specialized body hairs. The team also discovers the insects' extraordinary acceleration, using it as inspiration for new liquid repellent technologies and materials design.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 15, 2020

Study finds association between atherosclerosis and changes in the structure, heart function

Researchers found a significant association between coronary artery calcium and changes in the left ventricular mass index and aortic root diameter. This suggests that higher calcium scores may be linked to potential adverse effects on heart function, emphasizing the need for a healthy lifestyle to prevent calcification of arteries.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 15, 2020

How do plants forget?

Researchers found a phenomenon called 'epigenetic resetting' in plant sperm that erases histone modifications, allowing seeds to forget their environment. This mechanism is similar to data erasure on hard drives and is essential for plants to adapt to changing conditions.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 15, 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.

Physicists offer a new 'spin' on memory

A team of physicists at the University of Arizona discovered a thin layer of iron oxide that explains a long-standing puzzle in magnetic tunnel junctions, which could lead to faster and more efficient spintronics. The finding opens up new possibilities for developing this technology, potentially revolutionizing computing.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 15, 2020