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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 8


Page 8 of 42

Terrestrial bacteria can grow on nutrients from space

Researchers found that four bacteria species can survive and multiply on a minimal diet of nitrogen, phosphorus, and other essential elements from space. This adaptation process makes them less virulent, but still poses a risk to astronauts' immune systems during space travel.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalAstrobiology·DateMay 26, 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.

Women with Neandertal gene give birth to more children

Researchers found that women inheriting a Neandertal gene variant have lower rates of early miscarriages, fewer bleedings during pregnancy, and higher birth rates. The study suggests the variant has a favorable effect on fertility, with increased progesterone receptor production leading to greater sensitivity and protection.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 26, 2020

Controlling artificial cilia with magnetic fields and light

Scientists from North Carolina State University have developed artificial cilia that can be controlled using magnetic fields and light. The research builds on earlier work in designing soft robots for magnet and light control. The new findings demonstrate the potential applications of shape memory magnetic cilia in various fields.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateMay 26, 2020

Directed protein evolution with CRISPR-Cas9

Researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas9 method to optimize proteins in mammalian cells, producing the fluorescent protein mCRISPRed that labels lysosomes. This technique enables targeted protein diversification and validation within organelles, opening new possibilities for biosensors, receptors, and therapeutic proteins.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateMay 26, 2020

Optimal time to treat Huntington's disease identified

A new study from UCL-led researchers has identified the earliest brain changes due to Huntington's disease, detecting damage 24 years before clinical symptoms appear. The findings provide vital insights into the optimal time to initiate treatments, potentially delaying or preventing neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateMay 26, 2020

Chromosomal speciation in wild house mice

A new study on wild house mice from Southern Italy suggests that Robertsonian fusions play an active role in speciation. The researchers found three identical chromosomal rearrangements in both island and mainland populations, showing large-scale genetic mutations occur independently.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 26, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Controlling angular dispersions in optical metasurfaces

Researchers from China established a general strategy to guide design of optical metasurfaces with fully controlled angular dispersions. They demonstrated the importance of near-field couplings and radiation patterns in determining these dispersions.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 26, 2020

Controlling superconductors with light

Researchers at Institute for Basic Science develop new method to study superconductors using optical tools, enabling exploration of fluctuating superconductivity. Theoretical model shows significant changes in electric conductivity and light absorption near critical temperature.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 26, 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.

Bullying is common factor in LGBTQ youth suicides, Yale study finds

A recent Yale University study found that bullying is a common precursor to suicide among LGBTQ youth, with death records of LGBTQ youths being about five times more likely to mention bullying than non-LGBTQ peers. The study suggests that additional steps are needed to protect these young people against the threat of bullying.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 26, 2020

Catch and release: collagen-mediated control of PEDF availability

A study published in PNAS reveals that collagen maturation controls the availability of PEDF, a secreted protein involved in multiple biological functions. Researchers found that PEDF selectively destroys developing vessels by binding to newly synthesized collagen.

SourceOsaka University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 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.

Ear infections discovered in remains of humans living in levant 15,000 years ago

Researchers discovered evidence of ear infections in 15,000-year-old human remains from the Levant, peaking around 6,000 years ago due to environmental factors. The study suggests that changes in living conditions, such as increased population density and poor hygiene, contributed to the prevalence of ear infections.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalInternational Journal of Osteoarchaeology·DateMay 26, 2020

Scientists synthesize anti-inflammatory tick spit protein for first time

Researchers at the University of Sydney have successfully synthesized evasins, a type of anti-inflammatory protein found in tick saliva, which can suppress chemokine-driven inflammation in human diseases. The proteins show great promise in treating lung inflammation in respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 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.

Bullying among LGBTQ youth who died by suicide

A study using postmortem records found that LGBTQ youth ages 10-19 who died by suicide were more likely to be bullied compared to non-LGBTQ peers. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and support services to address bullying and promote mental health among vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 26, 2020

Bricks made from plastic, organic waste

Scientists at Flinders University have developed a new method to create sustainable building blocks, including bricks made from recycled PVC and organic waste. The 'green' bricks can be repeatedly ground up and recycled, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateMay 26, 2020

Long hospital stays, high rates of ICU admission for US COVID-19 patients

A study of nearly 9.6 million Kaiser Permanente patients reveals long hospital stays and high ICU admission rates for US COVID-19 patients, contradicting forecasts based on Chinese data. Social distancing measures have successfully reduced transmission intensity, but relaxed measures may lead to disease resurgence.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 26, 2020

New method reveals where DNA is at risk in the cell

A new sequencing method has been developed to map the spatial organization of DNA in the cell nucleus, revealing areas prone to mutation and damage. The technique identifies a continuum of increasing activity from the nuclear periphery towards the center, challenging previous assumptions about inactive chromatin's location.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 26, 2020

Airborne science discovers complex geomorphic controls on Bornean forests

A new study published in Ecology Letters reveals that geological factors control the organization of ecosystems across tropical landscapes. Researchers used high-resolution airborne remote sensing datasets to analyze data from Mt. Kinabalu, finding complex interactions between geology, biogeochemistry, biodiversity, and biogeography.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 26, 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.

Designing technologies that interpret your mood from your skin

A study developed an innovative system to interpret biological signals from the skin, using data from a wearable sensor device. Researchers found that participants used the technology for various purposes, including managing stress levels, tracking emotions, and logging information about their lives.

SourceLancaster University·DateMay 26, 2020

AI management can benefit the growing online workforce

Researchers found that worker autonomy and transparency are crucial for crowdwork environment, while algorithmic management can enhance productivity when framed as promoting autonomy. The study suggests ways to improve algorithmic management via AI assistance.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMay 26, 2020

New method allows minimally invasive cell sampling

A new method, called localized electroporation, enables repeated, non-destructive sampling of cells to study dynamic processes over time. This allows researchers to investigate how enzymatic activity varies between healthy cells and cancerous tumor biopsies.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalSmall·DateMay 26, 2020

Astronomers create cloud atlas for hot, Jupiter-like exoplanets

A new model predicts the most common type of cloud on hot Jupiters, which should consist of liquid or solid silicate droplets. The study also finds that clouds can block observations of gases beneath them, hindering research on exoplanet formation and life.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Astronomy·DateMay 26, 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.

New type of coupled electronic-structural waves discovered in magnetite

Scientists have uncovered low-energy waves in magnetite that indicate the importance of electronic interactions with the crystal lattice. The discovery reveals the trimeron order in magnetite has elementary excitations with very low energy, absorbing radiation in the far-infrared region.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 26, 2020

A thin lensless camera free of noise

Researchers from Tsinghua University and MIT developed a thin lensless camera free of noise using Fresnel zone plate and compressive sensing algorithm. The FZA imaging system can capture high-quality images with single-shot 'hologram' without calibration, driving down the cost of camera production.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 26, 2020

New 5G switches bring better battery life, higher bandwidth and speeds

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a new component that increases devices' battery life and speeds up high-definition media streaming. The switch, made from hexagonal boron nitrite (hBN), can transmit data above 5G-level speeds and stay off to save power.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Electronics·DateMay 26, 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.

Sugar turns brown algae into good carbon stores

Researchers discovered that brown algae's cell wall contains the long-chained sugar fucoidan, which is only partially degraded by microbial communities. However, specific highly specialized bacteria can break down fucoidan using over 100 enzymes, sequestering carbon in the ocean.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 26, 2020

It may take up to a year to get through elective surgeries due to COVID-19

A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that it may take between seven and 16 months for surgeons to complete the backlog of elective orthopaedic surgeries suspended during COVID-19. The US is facing over a million delayed surgeries for spinal fusion and knee/hip replacements.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMay 26, 2020

Humans have beneficial bacteria uniquely adapted for life in our noses

A study published in Cell Reports suggests that lactobacilli have a niche in the human nose and may play a role in preventing chronic nasal and sinus inflammation. Researchers developed a proof-of-concept nasal spray that delivered lactobacillus to the nose, colonizing healthy volunteers' upper respiratory tracts without adverse effects.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 26, 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.

Nanoneedles to increase the capacity and robustness of digital memories

A team of scientists has created a technique using nanoneedles to modify the properties of iron-rhodium alloy, allowing for the creation of antiferromagnetic nano-islands embedded in ferromagnetic matrices. This breakthrough enables the miniaturization of magnetic devices and facilitates the manufacture of more robust and secure memories.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateMay 26, 2020

Mathematics can save lives at sea

Researchers developed an algorithm to predict coastal currents using dynamical systems theory and ocean data. This new tool promises to enhance search and rescue techniques at sea, potentially saving lives.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 2020

How exposure to negative feedback in influences goal-directed consumer behaviors

A new study finds that exposure to negative feedback motivates consumers to pursue proving goals, such as demonstrating competence, but reduces motivation for enjoyment goals, like having fun. This phenomenon suggests a complex relationship between self-esteem threats, consumer behavior, and marketing strategies.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateMay 26, 2020

Can interactive technology ease urban traffic jams?

Researchers found that using Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) can reduce travel time and fuel consumption, saving cities over $4.7 billion annually. Cities like Houston, which uses technology to manage traffic flow, have seen significant reductions in congestion and emissions.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateMay 26, 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.

Countering COVID-19 impacts on children from low-income households

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened existing inequalities in US children from low-income households, hindering their access to quality education and nutritious meals. The authors recommend targeted legislation to address child health and well-being, including expanding services and increasing funding for nutrition assistance programs.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMay 26, 2020

Ocean virus hijacks carbon-storing bacteria

A newly discovered ocean virus is hijacking the metabolism of the most abundant organism on Earth, Prochlorococcus marinus. The virus alters the ability of P. marinus to store carbon and counter the greenhouse gas effect, potentially preventing gigatons of carbon from being taken out of the air annually.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 26, 2020

Peer-reviewed data shows remdesivir for COVID-19 improves time to recovery

The study found that remdesivir reduced the median time to recovery by 4 days compared to placebo, with a survival benefit and improved clinical status. The findings support remdesivir as the standard treatment for hospitalized COVID-19 patients requiring supplemental oxygen therapy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 26, 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.

Ultrafast optical response and ablation mechanisms of molybdenum disulfide

A new study simulates electron dynamics during femtosecond laser ablation of MoS2, revealing two types of ablation mechanisms and distinct electron dynamics. The results show that higher fluence induces superheated liquid formation, leading to dramatic changes in reflectivity and micro-honeycomb structures.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 26, 2020

Renewable energy advance

University of Delaware researchers have developed a technique to visualize the three-dimensional structure of materials in detail while maintaining context. This approach enables scientists to study specific particles on the material's surface and observe how they evolve over time under different conditions.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 26, 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.

Can copying your friends help you achieve your goals?

A new study finds that encouraging people to mimic successful exercise strategies used by their friends increases time spent exercising. Copy-paste prompts, a simple and costless nudge, can boost goal achievement in various domains.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateMay 26, 2020

Scientists find optimal age of stem cells

Researchers have found that reprogrammed stem cells between days 15 and 28 of maturation can successfully restore heart tissue. This 'window of opportunity' makes it possible to use stem cells that the body recognizes as its own, allowing for more effective regenerative medicine.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 26, 2020

Quantum simulators for gauge theories

Researchers at SISSA and ICTP used atomic physics experiments to simulate the Schwinger model, a gauge theory that describes particle interactions. This study confirms the potential of quantum simulators to investigate fundamental forces and could lead to simulations of complex systems.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMay 26, 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.

Study investigates sexual activity in lockdown

A UK study investigated sexual activity during COVID-19 lockdown and found that only 39.9% of British adults surveyed engaged in any form of sexual activity. The study suggests that promoting sexual activity as a way to maintain physical and mental health could be an important public health message.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateMay 26, 2020

Sandia to receive Fujitsu 'green' processor

Sandia will be one of the first DOE laboratories to receive Fujitsu's new A64FX processor, optimized for memory-speed bottleneck breakage. The 48-core processor provides greater fractions of usable peak performance and supports collaboration with the Japanese supercomputing community.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateMay 26, 2020

Eye injury sets immune cells on surveillance to protect the lens

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that after eye injury, immune cells travel along ciliary zonules to the lens, surveilling and protecting it from adverse impacts. This finding adds to evidence overturning accepted dogma in the field, suggesting an alternative mechanism for immune cell delivery.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMay 26, 2020

High-strain exercise linked to very early pregnancy loss

Women with a history of miscarriage who engage in high-strain exercise may be at a greater risk of subclinical pregnancy loss, according to new research. The study found a two-fold higher risk of very early pregnancy loss for highly active women compared to those who were less active.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateMay 26, 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.