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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 34


Page 34 of 42

Building blocks of the cell wall: pectin drives reproductive development in rice

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that pectin plays a vital role in plant reproductive development, particularly in female reproductive tissues. The study revealed that the OsPMT16 gene is crucial for normal pistil development, leading to increased fertility and improved breeding potential.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMay 7, 2020

Quantum resonances near absolute zero

Scientists have observed quantum scattering resonances in NO+He inelastic collisions at temperatures ranging from 0.3 to 12.3 K. The study used high-resolution velocity map imaging technique and accurate quantum dynamics calculations, which are in excellent agreement with experimental results.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 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.

Virgin birth has scientists buzzing

Researchers have discovered a gene responsible for virgin births in Cape honey bees, allowing workers to lay female eggs without sex. This discovery has significant implications for understanding evolutionary transitions and potentially controlling asexual reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 2020

2D oxide flakes pick up surprise electrical properties

Researchers at Rice University found evidence of piezoelectricity in lab-grown molybdenum dioxide flakes due to trapped electrons in defects. The material exhibits strong piezoelectric response comparable to conventional materials like molybdenum disulfide.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 7, 2020

Planting trees is no panacea for climate change, ecologist writes in Science commentary

A recent commentary by restoration ecologist Karen Holl emphasizes the importance of careful planning and long-term management for tree-planting initiatives. She argues that planting trees alone is not a sufficient solution to combat climate change, but rather one piece of a broader strategy involving reduced fossil fuel emissions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 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.

Controlling quantumness: Simulations reveal details about how particles interact

Scientists simulated a two-particle system to study quantum states and strong correlations, which could lead to breakthroughs in quantum computing and measurement devices. The research provides new insights into the behavior of particles in isolated systems.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateMay 7, 2020

Using digital twins to design more sustainable cities

Using digital twins, researchers simulate the complex interactions within urban environments to predict how changes in design could affect life there. The team developed a comprehensive model of Herrenberg city using space syntax, GIS data, and traffic control systems.

SourceGauss Centre for Supercomputing·JournalSustainability·DateMay 7, 2020

Hayabusa2's touchdown on Ryugu reveals its surface in stunning detail

High-resolution images capture Ryugu's asteroid surface in exceptional detail, revealing its geological history and color variations. The touchdown operation also disturbed a dark coating that corresponds to the surface's reddish materials, suggesting rapid solar heating during a temporary orbital excursion.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 7, 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.

New rules for the physical basis of cellular organelle composition

Researchers at Princeton University and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the formation of condensates depends on multiple compounds present in the cell, with compositional dependence playing a crucial role. The study demonstrates the importance of this composition dependence for the assembly of critical molecular machin...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·DateMay 6, 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.

Ultraviolet light exposes contagion spread from improper PPE use

Researchers used a nontoxic fluorescent solution under ultraviolet light to demonstrate the importance of proper PPE use during COVID-19 patient care. The study found that health care staff who contaminated their face or forearms during PPE removal were more likely to be exposed to the contagion.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMedical Education·DateMay 6, 2020

Blood thinners may improve survival among hospitalized COVID-19 patients

Researchers found that anticoagulants improved survival rates among COVID-19 patients in and out of the intensive care unit setting. Treatment with anticoagulants was associated with reduced mortality and longer hospital stays for ventilated patients.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 6, 2020

Climate change could reawaken Indian Ocean El Niño

Research suggests that global warming could disturb the Indian Ocean's surface temperatures, triggering an Indian Ocean El Niño similar to the Pacific Ocean phenomenon. This could lead to new climate extremes, including disruption of monsoons over East Africa and Asia.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 6, 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.

Bat 'super immunity' may explain how bats carry coronaviruses -- USask study

A University of Saskatchewan research team has discovered that bat cells can persistently infect with MERS coronavirus for months due to adaptations from both the bat and virus. This unique 'super' immune system in bats allows coronaviruses to remain long-term without causing harm, suggesting stresses on bats may contribute to species ...

SourceUniversity of Saskatchewan·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 6, 2020

Scientists shed light on essential carbon-fixing machinery in bacteria

Researchers have discovered how carboxysomes work and can be accurately measured, leading to potential breakthroughs in renewable fuels production and plant growth. The study also reveals a possible route to developing novel antibiotics targeting bacterial microcompartments.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 6, 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.

How does nitrogen dynamics affect carbon and water budgets in China?

A recent study uses the Noah LSM with multi-parameterization options to quantify the impacts of nitrogen dynamics on terrestrial carbon and water cycles in China. The results show improved simulations of gross primary productivity and leaf area index, with reduced errors and better spatial patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMay 6, 2020

New freeze-resistant trichinella species discovered in wolverines

A new freeze-resistant Trichinella species has been found in wolverines, highlighting the need for improved food safety measures. The species, named Trichinella chanchalensis, was discovered in 14 of 338 wolverine samples tested and is estimated to be around 6 million years old.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalJournal of Parasitology·DateMay 6, 2020

Intel from an outpatient COVID-19 clinic

A new analysis of outpatient COVID-19 clinic data provides clues to distinguish between patients with COVID-19 and those with other conditions mimicking its symptoms. Key findings include fever not being a reliable indicator, COVID-19 often presenting with various permutations of cough without fever, and loss of the sense of smell as a...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateMay 6, 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.

Green tea may help with weight loss efforts

A study of randomized controlled trials found that consuming green tea led to a significant decline in body weight and body mass index. However, the analysis did not reveal any notable changes in waist circumference after supplementation.

SourceWiley·JournalPhytotherapy Research·DateMay 6, 2020

Unplanned extubations in preterm infants leads to poor outcomes, increased care costs

A retrospective cohort study published in Pediatrics found that unplanned extubations in preterm infants were associated with worse in-patient outcomes, extended length of stay, and increased hospital costs. The study estimated direct hospital costs of about $60 million as a result of UEs in babies less than 28 weeks at birth.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 6, 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.

NEJM study shows drug saves lives of kids fighting deadly immune disease

Researchers report a new drug emapalumab has saved the lives of children with severe HLH by reducing toxicity and side effects. The study showed that 63% of previously treated patients responded to emapalumab therapy, and 74% of patients were still alive at the last observation.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 6, 2020

Pure red LEDs fulfill a primary goal

A team of electrical engineers at KAUST has successfully made pure red LEDs from nitride crystals, paving the way for improved display technologies and efficient lighting. The breakthrough utilizes metalorganic vapor-phase deposition to add indium and aluminum to the crystal, reducing defects and increasing voltage efficiency.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateMay 6, 2020

A new biomarker for the aging brain

A study published in Brain found that a lag in blood drainage from the deep region of the brain is associated with ventriculomegaly and can be detected with MRI. The researchers identified this biomarker as a potential predictor for dementia and ventriculomegaly, which can be reversed by removing excess fluid.

SourceRIKEN·JournalBrain·DateMay 6, 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.

Division of labor on the surface of bacteria

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt and the University of Exeter have found that Thermus thermophilus bacteria possess two types of tiny surface hairs, or pili, with different functions. The thick pili are used for DNA capture, while the thin pili facilitate movement on surfaces.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 6, 2020

Examining health insurance nondiscrimination policies with mental health among gender minority individuals

Researchers analyzed a large private health insurance database to investigate the association between health insurance nondiscrimination policies and mental health outcomes in gender minority individuals. The study found significant disparities in access to mental health care and treatment, highlighting the need for policy changes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 6, 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.

Trial questions benefits of organic nitrates for bone health

A new study published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that organic nitrates do not have a clinically relevant effect on bone mineral density or bone turnover in postmenopausal women. The treatment caused significant side effects, casting doubt on previous research reporting large positive effects of nitrates on bone health.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateMay 6, 2020

Transforming surgery in the aftermath of COVID-19

Single-entry models and team-based care can reduce wait times for surgeries while providing equitable access for patients. The authors acknowledge concerns around professional autonomy and financial security, but suggest that SEMs are fair, efficient, and patient-centered.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 6, 2020

How we might recharge an electric car as it drives

Engineers have demonstrated a technology that can transmit electricity wirelessly to recharge electric cars, robots or even drones while they move. The system boosts efficiency to 92% and can transmit 10 watts of electricity over short distances.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Electronics·DateMay 6, 2020

Study reveals impact of 'soft opt-out' system for organ donation

A new study found that a 'soft opt-out' system for organ donation increased consent rates by 2.1 times compared to England, with the impact taking several years to be fully realized. The Welsh system allowed organs to be donated without explicit consent from patients or their families.

SourceWiley·JournalAnaesthesia·DateMay 6, 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.

Light sensors detect larval pests munching on date palms

Researchers at KAUST developed a cost-effective approach to detect red palm weevil infestation using laser pulses and optical fibers. The system can identify larvae as young as 12 days old and provide noninvasive, 24/7 monitoring of large-scale farms.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 6, 2020

Child body size linked to risk of heart disease and diabetes in later life

A study published by The BMJ found that childhood body size is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes in later life. However, a larger early life body size may help protect women against breast cancer. The study suggests that maintaining a normal body mass index (BMI) in adulthood can reduce th...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 6, 2020

New therapeutic targets for infertility and cancer revealed

Researchers identified two previously overlooked genes as potential new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment and male infertility. RMPs play a key role in the RNA modification process, adding or removing chemical groups to the sequence, and altering the original code copied from DNA.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalGenome Biology·DateMay 6, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

FSU researchers study Gulf of Mexico in international collaboration

Researchers from FSU and partner universities mapped carbon, nitrogen, and carbon-14 distribution in the southern Gulf to create a baseline for future studies. They found no signs of remaining oil disturbance in sediment, highlighting the importance of understanding pre-existing conditions for assessing ecosystem changes.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 6, 2020

International Society of Hypertension release global practice guidelines

The International Society of Hypertension has released the first global practice guidelines for managing hypertension, developed by a world-wide panel of experts. The guidelines aim to simplify treatment approaches in resource-poor settings, addressing the challenge of accessing cutting-edge medical equipment and technology.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Hypertension·DateMay 6, 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.

Surfaces that grip like gecko feet could be easily mass-produced

A new method of making gecko-inspired adhesive materials has been developed, enabling mass production and the spread of versatile gripping strips. The materials can be used to make extremely versatile grippers that pick up different objects on the same assembly line.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 6, 2020

Experimental study of how 'metallic glass' forms challenges paradigm in glass research

Scientists at Saarland University study atomic rearrangements in a gold alloy as it cools, revealing a fundamental new finding that challenges conventional wisdom. The researchers found that the freezing process is decoupled from the alpha-relaxation rate, leading to improved understanding of amorphous metals and glass-forming materials.

SourceSaarland University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 6, 2020

Gas nanomedicine: An emerging cutting-edge field

Scientists propose advanced engineering strategies for gas-releasing nanomedicines to enhance bioavailability and safety of therapeutic gases. These nanomedicines aim to maximize profits in gas therapy by providing controlled release and targeting cancer cells.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMay 6, 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.

Fluorescent technique brings aging polymers to light

A new fluorescent technique allows researchers to visualize the aging process of polypropylene and polyethylene polymers in 3D. The method detects faster polymer aging when exposed to higher temperatures, providing insights into the degradation of polymers over time.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateMay 6, 2020