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Science News Archive November 2020 - Page 33


Page 33 of 43

Marine fisheries will not offset farm losses after nuclear war

A study by Rutgers University suggests that pre-war fisheries management could boost ocean protein contributions during a global food emergency, but widespread overfishing would not offset land-based food losses after a nuclear war. Effective regulation could lead to significantly higher catches in the first year post-war.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2020

Researchers examine if online physician reviews indicate clinical outcomes

A study published in Information Systems Research found that online reviews of physicians do not reliably indicate the quality of care provided by a physician, especially for chronic-disease patients. The researchers examined 10 years of COPD patient admission-discharge data and scored online reviews on one of the ranking websites.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateNov 9, 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.

Loneliness a leading cause of depression in older adults

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that loneliness is a leading cause of depression in older adults, with nearly one in five cases potentially preventable. The research, led by UCL researchers, suggests that subjective experiences of loneliness contribute to depression up to 12 years later.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateNov 9, 2020

Water predictions: Telling when a nanolithography mold will break through droplets

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a novel strategy to predict the lifetime of replica molds used in UV-NIL by analyzing changes in the contact angle of water on the mold surface. The method uses commercial camera-based systems and can accurately predict when a mold will break, reducing costs associated with UV-NIL.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNanomaterials·DateNov 9, 2020

Effect of hydroxychloroquine on clinical status

A randomized trial found that hydroxychloroquine improved the clinical status of adults hospitalized with COVID-19. The study compared the effects of hydroxychloroquine versus placebo on patients' clinical status at 14 days.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 9, 2020

Imaging macrophages in human eyes

A label-free imaging technique has been developed to examine immune cells called macrophages in the retina of healthy humans and patients with glaucoma. Cell density decreased with age in healthy participants, while cell processes moved more quickly and covered a smaller area in patients.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 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.

Trauma hospitalizations fall in Philly during COVID-19 lockdown, but gun violence rises

Gun violence patients made up nearly 23% of trauma hospitalizations during the 2020 stay-at-home order, a significant increase from previous years. Trauma cases overall dropped by half during this time, but gun violence remained a major concern, disproportionately affecting people of color.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateNov 9, 2020

Study finds surprising diversity in early child care

A study identified seven pathways to kindergarten, including children cared for mainly at home, in a center-based program, or switching between different types of care. Despite this diversity, test scores did not show significant differences between children from each pathway.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEarly Education and Development·DateNov 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study suggests greater social support linked to lower diabetes distress

A new study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that increased social support reduces diabetes-related distress and improves treatment outcomes. Researchers emphasize the importance of integrating patients' family and support systems into their diabetes management plans to optimize care.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateNov 9, 2020

New research supports clinical utility of CTC count for metastatic breast cancer

A randomized clinical trial demonstrated the reliability of using circulating tumor cell count to guide frontline therapy choice for patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) HER2-negative (HER2) metastatic breast cancer. The CTC count significantly improved progression-free survival for patients with high CTC counts, while hormon...

SourceDowling & Dennis PR·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateNov 9, 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.

Wound-healing biomaterials activate immune system for stronger skin

A new hydrogel biomaterial triggers an adaptive immune response, leading to improved tissue repair and stronger healed skin. The material, developed at Duke University, demonstrates a regenerative immune response that can potentially heal skin injuries like burns and cuts more effectively than current wound-healing hydrogels.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 9, 2020

Role of climate in end-Pleistocene extinctions

Climate change was a major factor in the extinction of 38 genera of large mammals in North America at the end-Pleistocene glacial-interglacial transition. The species' histories and adaptive tolerances were critical in their survival during earlier transitions, but not at the last transition when humans arrived.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 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.

How genetic codons may have evolved

A study analyzed 4,225 protein-coding genes in the Escherichia coli genome to understand the evolution of genetic codons. The researchers discovered a disproportionate use of specific serine codons, suggesting their independent emergence during evolution.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2020

COVID-19 triggers OCD in children and young people

A study by Aarhus University finds that COVID-19 exacerbates obsessive thoughts and compulsions in children and young people with OCD. The condition often worsens due to anxiety about illness or loss, particularly among younger children who are more dependent on others.

SourceAarhus University·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateNov 9, 2020

U.S.-born Black women at higher risk of preeclampsia than Black immigrants

A recent study published at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2020 found that U.S.-born Black women have a higher risk of developing preeclampsia compared to Black women who immigrated to the country. The study analyzed data from nearly 4,000 Black women in Boston and found that foreign-born Black women had a 26% low...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2020

A new model found to predict earthquake propagation speed

A new model has been developed to predict earthquake propagation speeds, resolving a long-standing inconsistency between theory and observations. The 3D model overcomes the limitations of previous 2D models and accounts for oblique sliding, making it more accurate in predicting seismic wave behavior.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 9, 2020

Machine learning advances materials for separations, adsorption, and catalysis

Researchers used machine learning to predict water stability in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), accelerating the development of new materials. The model, trained on over 200 existing MOFs, enables predictions for other important properties, expanding applications in chemical separations, adsorption, and sensing.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateNov 9, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

How digital text format affects reading performance

A study found that individuals with low vision require fewer characters per line to achieve optimal reading speed compared to those with normal vision. The findings highlight the importance of customizing digital text formats to optimize reading performance for both groups.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2020

Electrified magnets: researchers uncover a new way to handle data

Physicists at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg and Central South University found a way to enhance magnetism's response to electrical fields by stacking magnetic layers. This mechanism can be precisely controlled, allowing for efficient electrical control of magnetic signals.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 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.

Global analysis of forest management shows local communities often lose out

A new study found that community forest management policies often result in weakened rights and less access to forests for local populations. Despite positive outcomes in some cases, the overall results show a series of trade-offs between people and the environment. The research highlights the need for governments to ensure that commun...

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 9, 2020

How to accelerate solar adoption for the underserved

Researchers discovered that targeted financial incentives, leasing models, and property-assessed clean energy financing increase solar adoption equity in low- and middle-income households. This expansion can lead to a spillover effect, making surrounding neighborhoods more likely to adopt solar as well.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 9, 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.

Workshop collaboration aims to move tidal marsh research forward

The workshop aimed to address the knowledge gap in tidal marshes by discussing key issues, including public awareness, conservation efforts, and sea-level rise impacts. The meeting drew experts from various fields, from undergraduate students to retired leaders, to share perspectives on tidal marsh ecology.

SourceDauphin Island Sea Lab·JournalScience·DateNov 9, 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.

Women veterans with PTSD have higher rate of heart disease

A study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2020 found that women veterans with PTSD have a 44% higher risk of developing ischemic heart disease compared to those without PTSD. The increased risk was most prominent in younger women, especially those under 40 years old.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2020

A novel finding on Kabuki syndrome, a rare genetic disease

An Italian team has successfully recreated the pathological condition of Kabuki syndrome in a test tube, revealing the impact on the cell nucleus and bone formation. The study identifies a potential therapeutic approach by targeting a nuclear protein that responds to mechanical signals.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 9, 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.

Rapid test shows 'solid performance' for diagnosing infection around joint implants

A new rapid test has shown solid diagnostic performance in distinguishing between patients with and without periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), a serious complication of total joint replacement. The test, which measures alpha-defensin levels in synovial fluid, achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 9, 2020

Nut consumption causes changes in sperm DNA function

Researchers found that adding tree nuts to a Western-style diet improves sperm count, viability, motility, and morphology. Nut consumption also alters specific sperm DNA methylation patterns, with 97.2% of regions displaying hypermethylation.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalAndrology·DateNov 9, 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 tool detects unsafe security practices in Android apps

A new open-source tool, CRYLOGGER, analyzes thousands of Android apps to detect cryptographic misuses without requiring access to the app's code. The study found that nearly all popular Android apps contain code or use libraries that do not strictly adhere to security standards.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateNov 9, 2020

Older Latinas please stand up! Simple intervention encourages better health

A 12-week standing intervention program significantly reduced sitting time and increased standing time among overweight, sedentary Latinas. The program, tailored to cultural and family-oriented aspects of Latino communities, resulted in an average reduction of 71 minutes daily sitting and an increase of nearly 50 minutes per day standing.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 9, 2020

Half a billion years old microfossils may yield new knowledge of animal origins

Researchers have discovered embryo-like microfossils in Greenland, dating back 570 million years, which could provide new insights into the origin of animals. The finds are significant as they reveal that these organisms were dispersed throughout the world, challenging previous assumptions about their distribution.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateNov 9, 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.

Coating plastics by porous nanofilm

Researchers from Tohoku University developed a new method for creating MOF thin films with designable pores, opening up its use for humidity sensing, gas sensing and resistive switching devices. The 'layer-by-layer' method involves sequential immersing of substrates into ingredient solutions.

SourceTohoku University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 9, 2020

The ecology of crop pests

Research by Ashley Larsen and Frederik Noack found that less diverse croplands lead to greater variability in pesticide use, while more diverse landscapes reduce pesticide application. The study suggests strategies for increasing food production while minimizing environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 9, 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.

Bringing drugs to the brain with nanoparticles to treat neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers have developed nanoparticles that can cross the blood-brain barrier and be captured by neuronal cells, enabling direct drug delivery to the brain. This breakthrough finding holds promise for improved treatment of neurodegenerative diseases affecting millions of Canadians.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateNov 9, 2020