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Science News Archive November 2020 - Page 7


Page 7 of 43

Blast from the past

A team of astronomers using Gemini North's GNIRS instrument discovered that CK Vulpeculae, a bright new star in 1670, is approximately five times farther away and has ejected gas at much higher speeds than previously reported. The new findings suggest the explosion was far more violent, releasing roughly 25 times more energy than a nova.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 24, 2020

Historical bias overlooks genes related to COVID-19

A new study by Northwestern University researchers found that historical bias affects COVID-19 research, with only 611 out of 2,064 relevant genes being studied. The study highlights the need to explore understudied genes and broaden scientific study beyond current trends.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateNov 24, 2020

'Crisis decision making at the speed of COVID-19' - Bay Area public health officials share their experience with shelter-in-place order

In response to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, Bay Area public health officials issued the first U.S. regional shelter-in-place order in mid-March 2020. They share their experience on crisis decision-making approach, including meta-leadership and decision intelligence, which improved routine team decisions.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateNov 24, 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.

Pesticide deadly to bees now easily detected in honey

A simple technique developed by researchers at the University of Waterloo can now effectively detect pyrethroids in honey, a common pesticide hazard for bees. The extraction method, using solid phase microextraction (SPME), makes it possible to measure safe levels and identify locations with high pesticide use.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalFood Chemistry·DateNov 24, 2020

New graph-based statistical method detects threats to vehicular communications networks

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a cost-effective way to detect security threats in vehicle networks using graph-based anomaly detection techniques. This simple method requires less energy than machine learning or AI methods and can be easily adapted by car manufacturers.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateNov 24, 2020

Trinity researchers discover how the brain 're-wires' after disease

Researchers found previously unknown changes in brain networks after polio and neurological diseases like MND/ALS, suggesting abnormal communication between muscles and brain. The study increases understanding of brain plasticity and its implications for rehabilitation and new biomarker development.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalClinical Neurophysiology·DateNov 24, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Defined blockade

A new method enables specific inhibition and removal of DNA methylation at targeted locations using enzymatic photocaging. This technique involves attaching photocages to AdoMet analogues, which are then transferred to methylation sites, allowing for precise control over gene regulation.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 24, 2020

Sestrin makes fruit flies live longer

Researchers identified Sestrin as a key regulator of stem cell function and lifespan in response to dietary amino acids. Increasing Sestrin levels extended fruit fly lifespan and protected against negative diet effects.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Aging·DateNov 24, 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.

Tracking COVID-19 trends in hard-hit states

A study by Louisiana State University researchers found that social distancing measures significantly reduced COVID-19 infection rates in heavily impacted states. The analysis showed a substantial drop in infection rates following public policy measures like stay-at-home orders and mask mandates.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 24, 2020

Channeling the immune system for head and neck cancer

University of Cincinnati researchers discovered that certain immune cells respond to immunotherapy by increasing activity in potassium ion channels, allowing them to more effectively target and kill cancer cells. However, patients who do not respond to treatment lack this increased channel activity.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateNov 24, 2020

How dolphins avoid "the bends"

A new study reveals that dolphins adjust their heart rate to suit the length of their planned dive, conserving oxygen and avoiding decompression sickness. This conscious adjustment allows them to safely dive for long periods, providing insights into marine mammal physiology.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateNov 24, 2020

Magnet swallowing by children after changes in federal regulations

Researchers found a significant increase in emergency department visits for children who swallowed small high-powered magnets after changes in federal regulations. The study suggests that the rise in magnet-related injuries may be attributed to the new rules, which have allowed for the sale of these magnets without safety restrictions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 24, 2020

Researchers develop low-cost, portable brain imaging scanner

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have created a compact, low-power 'head only' MRI scanner for brain imaging. The device can be mounted in ambulances or clinics and emits less noise than traditional scanners.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 24, 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.

24 years for Buber research in the digital age

A new academy project at Goethe University Frankfurt will digitallyize over 40,000 Martin Buber letters and make them accessible. The project aims to understand Buber's life, work, and intellectual network, shedding light on the 20th century's history.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateNov 24, 2020

Immune strategy based on limited information in the network

Researchers develop efficient immunization strategy using limited network information, significantly reducing disease spread for small groups of individuals. By focusing on the most connected nodes, they achieve a lower fraction of nodes needed to stop the epidemic, highlighting the potential for effective control measures.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateNov 24, 2020

Researchers reveal switch used in plant defense against animal attack

Scientists at UC San Diego have identified a biological switch, or receptor, that sounds an alarm in plants when herbivores attack, enabling plant recognition of danger. The discovery offers new strategies for improving plant health and resistance to crop pest damage.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2020

Sound waves power new advances in drug delivery and smart materials

High-frequency sound waves revolutionize ultrasound-driven chemistry, enabling the development of innovative biomedical technologies and advanced materials. Researchers can deliver drugs to the lungs for painless vaccinations and create protective nanoparticles using patented nebulisation technology.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateNov 24, 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.

Anxiety associated with faster Alzheimer's disease onset

A new study finds that anxiety is independently associated with cognitive decline and a faster progression to Alzheimer's disease, even in patients without genetic risk factors or brain volume loss. The researchers recommend screening for anxiety disorders in elderly individuals to potentially slow cognitive decline.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 24, 2020

Guiding the way to improved solar cell performance

Scientists have created a set of design guidelines to enhance the efficiency of molecular materials in solar cells. By understanding how particles travel through devices, researchers discovered that maximizing exciton diffusion length can improve organic solar cell performance.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 24, 2020

Novel chemical process a first step to making nuclear fuel with fire

A new 'combustion synthesis' process has been established for producing safe and sustainable nuclear fuels. Actinide nitride fuels offer improved thermal conductivity and energy density compared to uranium dioxide, potentially revolutionizing the nuclear power industry.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateNov 24, 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.

Secrets of the 'lost crops' revealed where bison roam

Researchers have identified small-seeded native plants that may have fed as many Indigenous people as maize, thanks to the presence of bison. By following bison trails and paths in tallgrass prairies, scientists were able to harvest seeds from continuous stands of these crops, including little barley, sumpweed, and maygrass.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalThe Anthropocene Review·DateNov 24, 2020

Simple new testing method aims to improve time-release drugs

Researchers at UC Riverside developed a simple, inexpensive way to measure drug dissolution that addresses shortcomings of existing methods. The technique uses a vibrating tube sensor to monitor the weight of individual pellets as they dissolve, providing accurate and continuous measurements.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 24, 2020

Strengthening the climate change scenario framework

The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis assessed the climate change scenario framework, which combines alternative futures of climate and society. The study found that the framework has been widely applied in over 1,400 studies, enabling research on combined impacts of socioeconomic and climate changes.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 24, 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.

Scientists apply the METRIC model to estimate the land surface evapotranspiration in Nepal

The METRIC model was used to simulate and evaluate surface evapotranspiration in Nepal, showing good applicability and accuracy. The study found an inverse relation between elevation and ET, highlighting its potential for irrigation management and soil moisture assessment in the country's mountainous regions.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateNov 24, 2020

Animal-free method predicts nanoparticle toxicity for safer industrial materials

Researchers developed an animal-free method to predict nanoparticle toxicity, enabling safer industrial materials production and reducing environmental risks. The new approach identifies key cellular events triggering inflammation, allowing for high-throughput testing and connectable with in silico modeling.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 24, 2020

Progress in electronic structure and topology in nickelates superconductors

Scientists at Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Science analyzed parent compound NdNiO2 using first-principles calculations and Gutzwiller variational method. They found that electron Fermi pockets are contributed by Ni-3dx2-y2 orbitals and a two-band model can be constructed to reproduce all bands around Fermi level.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateNov 24, 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.

Do accountable care organizations reduce kidney failure-related healthcare costs?

A recent analysis found that Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) may reduce the cost of medical care for patients undergoing dialysis. The study discovered modest cost savings for Medicare beneficiaries in ACOs, especially those who received regular primary care physician visits.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 24, 2020

Experimental evolution reveals how bacteria gain drug resistance

A research team at RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research successfully evolved Escherichia coli under antibiotic pressure, identifying mechanisms and constraints underlying drug resistance. The findings can be used to develop strategies that minimize the chance of bacteria developing resistance.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 24, 2020

51% of Americans agree paying college athletes should be allowed

A national survey of nearly 4,000 people found that 51% of Americans support paying college athletes more than the cost of tuition, with race and traditionalism being key factors. The study also found that Black adults were 2.5 times more likely to agree with athlete pay.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSociology of Sport Journal·DateNov 24, 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.

To push or to pull? How many-limbed marine organisms swim

Researchers at MBL found that small marine animals with multiple propulsers create negative pressure behind them to propel forward. This phenomenon, dubbed 'suction thrust,' is common among animals with metachronal kinematics.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 24, 2020

Closing the racial disparity gap in survival after in-hospital cardiac arrest

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that better medical-surgical nurse staffing has a greater effect on black patients than white patients, and differences in survival to discharge after an IHCA are more pronounced in poorly staffed hospitals. The study included over 14,000 patients in 75 US hospitals.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalMedical Care·DateNov 24, 2020

Stress in pregnancy may influence baby brain development

A study by University of Edinburgh researchers found that maternal stress levels during pregnancy affect the baby's brain development, particularly the amygdala. The findings highlight the need for pregnant women to receive mental and physical health support to promote healthy brain development in their babies.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateNov 24, 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.

Face masks slow spread of COVID-19; types of masks, length of use matter

Researchers found that face masks made of hybrid polymer materials can filter particles efficiently while cooling the face. Consistent mask-wearing by at least 70% of the public could lead to the eradication of COVID-19 if efficient masks are used, according to epidemiological studies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 24, 2020

Study: Clean Air Act saved 1.5 billion birds

A new study by Cornell University researchers found that improved air quality under the Clean Air Act saved nearly 20 percent of birdlife in the US, potentially averting 1.5 billion bird deaths over the past 40 years.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 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.

Can drinking cocoa make you smarter?

Researchers found that flavanol-enriched cocoa drink improved blood oxygenation levels in the brain, leading to enhanced cognitive performance. Participants completed complex tasks faster and with higher accuracy after consuming the flavanol-rich drink.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 24, 2020

Using virtual reality to better understand auditory perception

Researchers from the University of Oldenburg are using virtual reality to better understand auditory perception, particularly in noisy environments. They aim to clarify how complicated processes such as perception, attention, and memory can be investigated using new interactive VR methods.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateNov 24, 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.

Treatment shows reduction in heart failure after myocardial infarction

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have discovered a potential treatment for heart failure after a significant heart attack. MCB-613, a small molecule stimulator, has been shown to decrease damaging remodeling and inhibit the development of heart failure in mice.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2020

Brain waves guide us in spotlighting surprises

Researchers found that dynamic interplay of brain wave frequencies, rather than dedicated circuitry, governs the brain's knack for highlighting surprising and downplaying predictable stimuli. This regulatory system has a key role in predictive coding, which is disrupted in autism spectrum disorders.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2020

Shining a light on nanoscale dynamics

Researchers from University of Konstanz and LMU Munich demonstrate ultrafast electron diffraction to uncover nanomaterials' functionality. They observe quantum mechanical phase shift through interaction with light waves, providing a movie-like sequence of images revealing fundamental light-matter interactions.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 24, 2020

Efficient and durable perovskite solar cell materials

Researchers at POSTECH developed organic spacer molecular additive to improve perovskite solar cells' photoelectric efficiency and stability. The new material reduces internal defects and increases moisture resistance, achieving 21.3% efficiency and maintaining over 80% of initial performance under humid conditions.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateNov 24, 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.

Quantum magic squares

Researchers from University of Innsbruck introduce quantum magic squares, a non-commutative generalization of classical magic squares. Quantum magic squares cannot be easily characterized by convex combinations of quantum permutation matrices, as previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalJournal of Mathematical Physics·DateNov 24, 2020