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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 39


Page 39 of 42

Study shows how microorganisms survive in harsh environments

Researchers discovered that microorganisms change the nature of rock they occupy by extracting water, causing a phase transformation. This finding has implications for life support systems and biomanufacturing in extreme environments.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

Long-term risks of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy impact more women

A recent study found that women who experienced hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing heart or kidney diseases earlier in life. The study, which analyzed data from over 7,500 women, suggests that this risk may be underestimated when considering only per-pregnancy rates.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 4, 2020

Multiple flooding sources threaten Honolulu's infrastructure

Researchers found that groundwater inundation is the most extensive flood source, while direct marine inundation is the least. They developed a method to identify vulnerable locations and critical infrastructure likely to fail, emphasizing the need for site-specific consideration.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Russia creates its own humanized mice to test COVID-19 vaccines and drugs

Russian scientists have developed a new line of humanized mice sensitive to SARS-CoV-2, allowing for the testing of COVID-19 vaccines and drugs. The mice are made biologically safe and can experience symptoms and pathogenesis similar to humans, reducing the risk of contagion in laboratories.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalResearch Results in Pharmacology·DateMay 4, 2020

Evolution of lions

Researchers analyzed genomic data of 20 lion specimens, including extinct cave lions from Siberia and India, finding a shared ancestor 500,000 years ago. The study suggests limited gene flow between modern lions' lineages after their divergence 70,000 years ago.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

Arctic 'shorefast' sea ice threatened by climate change, study finds

A new study found that climate change could significantly reduce shorefast ice in Arctic communities, with potential declines of five to 44 days by 2100. The coldest regions are expected to experience the largest reductions, posing concerns for preserving polar ecosystems and local ways of life.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 4, 2020

Women's heart attack symptoms are not all that different

A new study found that while heart attack symptoms can vary between men and women, chest pain, sweating, and shortness of breath were the most common symptoms in both. Women were more likely to experience pain between the shoulder blades, nausea or vomiting, and shortness of breath compared to men.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 4, 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.

TACC COVID-19 Twitter dataset enables social science research about pandemic

The TACC COVID-19 Twitter dataset enables researchers to analyze social media communications and identify trends in pandemic responses. The dataset, which contains over 40 million tweets, can be used for topic modeling, entity analysis, and event detection, facilitating discoveries about the spread of misinformation and racist messaging.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMay 4, 2020

Artificial intelligence algorithm can accurately predict risk, diagnose AD

A new AI algorithm can predict Alzheimer's disease risk with high accuracy using a combination of brain MRI scans, cognitive impairment tests, and demographic data. The algorithm also provides interpretable visualizations of individual disease risk, leading to more accurate diagnoses.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBrain·DateMay 4, 2020

'Loss of pleasure' in teen sleep study

A global study of over 350,000 teens reveals that lack of sleep can lead to anhedonia, or loss of pleasure, as well as anxiety, anger, and significantly increased risk of depression. Easy interventions such as regulating screen time, delayed school starting times, and monitoring academic pressures can improve mental health.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSleep Medicine·DateMay 4, 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 flows could be more turbulent than previously expected

Researchers found that turbulent blood flows react strongly to vessel geometry, leading to higher velocity fluctuations and increased risk of arteriosclerosis. The study suggests a new mechanism for turbulence in cardiovascular flow at lower speeds than previously thought.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

Malaria risk is highest in early evening, study finds

A new study found that mosquitoes are most likely to transmit malaria in the early evening when people are exposed, followed by midnight and morning. This shift in biting behavior could reduce the effectiveness of bed nets in preventing malaria.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 4, 2020

Software flaws often first reported on social media networks, PNNL researchers find

Research shows that software vulnerabilities are more likely to be discussed on social media before being reported on official databases, highlighting the potential for early warning systems. The study also found that nearly all commercial codebases contain at least one vulnerability, with an average of 64 vulnerabilities per codebase.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 4, 2020

Study shows biocell collagen ingestion reduced signs of UVB-induced photoaging

A new study published in Journal of Functional Foods finds that daily BioCell Collagen ingestion reduces wrinkles, increases skin elasticity, and maintains hyaluronic acid content in humans. The supplement's unique matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II peptides, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid helps combat UVB-induced photoaging.

SourceMWWPR·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·DateMay 4, 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.

From scaffolding to screens: Understanding the developing brain for reading

Researchers have identified biomarkers that can predict children at risk for dyslexia and other reading acquisition disorders, suggesting a strong neural scaffolding in infancy. Studies using MRI imaging show that babies as young as 3 months old have underlying brain characteristics that predict success in reading years later.

SourceCognitive Neuroscience Society·DateMay 4, 2020

Study shows need for new focus in anti-vaping efforts for older teens and young adults

A recent study found that nearly two-thirds of teens and young adults use e-cigarettes due to social factors, despite widespread knowledge of the risks. The survey, conducted by the University of Michigan's MyVoice study, also revealed that most respondents believe vaping is dangerous and can lead to substance use.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 4, 2020

Exoplanets: How we'll search for signs of life

A new framework, called a 'detectability index,' has been developed to help scientists narrow down the field of exoplanets that require additional study. The index takes into account factors such as oxygen levels and water content on planets, providing a tool for prioritizing targets for observation.

SourceArizona State University·DateMay 4, 2020

SUTD research shows evidence that bilingualism delays the brain's aging process

Researchers found that active bilingualism protects against cognitive decline in older adults, improving executive control abilities. Bilingual individuals showed more efficient neural organization at language control regions, associated with better performance in goal maintenance and conflict monitoring tasks.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·DateMay 4, 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.

Estimating replicability using machine learning

A machine learning model accurately estimated replicability using article text and statistics, performing well on hundreds of social science studies. The model can prioritize manual replication efforts or self-assess by authors without significant bias.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

New COVID-19 guidance for gastroenterologists

The American Gastroenterological Association has published new evidence-based recommendations on the GI and liver manifestations of COVID-19. Key findings include a lower prevalence of GI symptoms in outpatients (4.0%), but also highlight atypical presentations, such as diarrhea preceding other symptoms by days.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateMay 4, 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.

Combining mouse and human data uncovers new gene regulating cholesterol

Researchers have discovered a new gene, Sestrin1, that regulates cholesterol levels by shutting off cholesterol production in the liver when food provides enough essential nutrients. The study combines fine-grained detail from animal studies with statistical power of genetic studies involving hundreds of thousands of human genomes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 4, 2020

ASU scientific team finds new, unique mutation in coronavirus study

Researchers at ASU have found a unique SARS-CoV-2 mutation with 81 deleted letters, similar to one from the 2003 SARS outbreak. The discovery was made using next-generation sequencing technology and has attracted global interest from scientists, including the World Health Organization.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMay 4, 2020

Recently recovered COVID-19 patients produce varying virus-specific antibodies

Recently recovered COVID-19 patients exhibit varied immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 proteins. High concentrations of neutralizing antibodies and IFNγ-secreting T cells were detected in some patients, indicating potential for vaccine targeting the receptor-binding domain. The study's findings have implications for designing effective vac...

SourceCell Press·JournalImmunity·DateMay 4, 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.

How gene flow between species influences the evolution of Darwin's finches

A recent study by Uppsala University and Princeton University found that gene flow between closely related species of Darwin's finches has affected their beak morphology. The researchers observed a convergence in beak shape among hybrids, which they attributed to gene flow from the medium ground finch to the common cactus finch.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 4, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Specialization of cattle pathogens

Genomic analysis uncovers lineages specializing in cattle colonization; intensification of agriculture led to adaptation of generalist lineages, potentially creating zoonotic pathogens.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

How many jobs do robots really replace?

A study by MIT economist Daron Acemoglu finds that adding one robot per 1,000 workers reduces national employment-to-population ratio by about 0.2 percent, with some areas affected more than others. This translates to each additional robot replacing about 3.3 workers nationally, on average.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateMay 4, 2020

Similar brain glitch found in slips of signing, speaking

San Diego State University researchers found a similar brain glitch occurs in signing and speaking errors, which could improve rehabilitation therapy for deaf signers after a stroke. The study used EEG recordings to analyze the brains of both hearing and deaf signers.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateMay 4, 2020

Public health training in climate change: What are prospective employers thinking?

Researchers found that 92% of employers believe public health professionals with climate change training will be in high demand in the next 5-10 years. Employers value skills such as knowledge of climate mitigation, health equity, and risk assessment. The study analyzed 16 years' worth of job postings to project future workforce needs.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMay 4, 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.

Study finds meditation and aerobic exercise relieves stress in medical school students

A study by Rutgers professor and medical student found that combining meditation with aerobic exercise reduces stress and rumination while enhancing the quality of life for medical students. The intervention, MAP Train My Brain, was developed by Shors and has shown positive outcomes in reducing stress and improving overall health.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateMay 4, 2020

Scientists take a step closer to heat-tolerant wheat

Researchers from Lancaster University have successfully modified a molecular building block in wheat to activate Rubisco faster in hotter temperatures. This breakthrough could help protect crops from rising temperatures and improve global food security.

SourceLancaster University·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMay 4, 2020

Microorganisms in parched regions extract needed water from colonized rocks

Researchers discovered that microorganisms change the rock's nature by extracting water, causing a phase transformation from gypsum to anhydrite. The organisms use organic acids to penetrate the rock and access water, revealing an innovative survival strategy.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

Strenuous exercise safe for people at high risk of knee arthritis

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that strenuous exercise does not increase the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis and may even protect against it. Adults at high risk for knee OA were 30% less likely to develop OA through vigorous physical activity participation.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 4, 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.

Climate change and tropical cyclones

Researchers found that cyclone frequency decreased in the southern Indian Ocean and western North Pacific but increased in the North Atlantic and central Pacific. The study suggests that climate change is driving these changes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2020

URI professor: Climate change increases risk of fisheries conflict

A University of Rhode Island researcher warns that climate change is causing increased conflicts between fishermen, fishing nations, and managers. Shifting fish populations and changing maritime boundaries are creating new challenges in global fisheries management.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalMarine Policy·DateMay 4, 2020

Print your own laboratory-grade microscope for US$18

The OpenFlexure Microscope is a fully automated, laboratory-grade instrument that can be 3D printed for as little as $18. It features motorised sample positioning and focus control, producing high-quality images.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateMay 4, 2020

Study: could dark matter be hiding in existing data?

Researchers propose refocusing dark matter detector efforts to seek out newly suggested types of dark matter signals that may have been overlooked. This includes absorption-related processes and energy signatures in the MeV range, which could be more common than previously detected signals.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 4, 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.

CUNY SPH Weekly COVID-19 Survey update week 8

The CUNY SPH Weekly COVID-19 Survey reveals New Yorkers are cautious about resuming normal activities due to the ongoing pandemic. Many believe a safe and effective vaccine is essential for restoring public confidence.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateMay 4, 2020

Solar and wind energy sites mapped globally for the first time

Researchers at the University of Southampton have created a global dataset of major renewable energy sites, mapping solar and wind farms worldwide. The study shows that Europe, North America, and East Asia dominate the renewable energy sector, with data correlating well with official statistics.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Data·DateMay 4, 2020

Liver surgery success boosted by growth hormone

A study at The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute found that growth hormone boosts liver regeneration in mice by suppressing inflammatory responses. Mice with normal growth hormone receptors survived liver surgery and experienced full liver regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateMay 4, 2020

Water-splitting module a source of perpetual energy

Rice University researchers have created a self-sustaining system that splits water to produce hydrogen fuel using solar power, with an efficiency of up to 6.7%. The device uses perovskite solar cells and catalytic electrodes to convert sunlight into electricity, which drives the electrochemical reaction to produce hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 4, 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.

Shrinking snowcaps fuel harmful algal blooms in Arabian Sea

A study published in Nature's Scientific Reports reveals that shrinking snowcaps in the Himalayan-Tibetan Plateau region are fueling the expansion of harmful algal blooms in the Arabian Sea. These blooms, caused by Noctiluca scintillans, are disrupting the marine food chain and threatening fisheries that sustain 150 million people.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2020

Societies issue guide to safely resume cardiovascular procedures, diagnostic tests

The American College of Cardiology has issued a framework for safely reintroducing invasive cardiovascular procedures and diagnostic tests. The document highlights the need to prioritize patients with untreated cardiovascular disease and ensure fair access to care, while also protecting patients and healthcare workers from COVID-19.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 4, 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.

Research suggests new therapeutic target for kidney diseases

Researchers have identified ROBO2 as a potential therapeutic target for treating kidney diseases, including glomerular diseases and chronic kidney disease. High ROBO2 protein levels are found in injured kidney models and can lead to reduced podocyte adhesion, making it a promising area of investigation.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateMay 4, 2020

Drug overdose epidemic is transmitted from old to young, study shows

Researchers found that drug overdose deaths shifted from older to younger age groups as generations changed, with Baby Boomers facing higher risks in their mid-40s, Generation X in their late 30s, and Millennials in their early 20s. The study's results suggest a strong sociological imprinting effect, where attitudes towards drug use sh...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 4, 2020

Warming Midwest conditions may result in corn, soybean production moving north

Researchers used machine learning to analyze 30 years of crop-yield data, finding that warmer conditions are causing corn yields to increase in humidity and decrease with extreme temperatures. The study predicts a shift in corn and soybean production from Iowa and Illinois to Minnesota and the Dakotas as optimal climate conditions change.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 4, 2020