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Science News Archive October 2020


Page 1 of 47

Skilled surgeons boost colon cancer survival by 70%

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that patients treated by highly skilled surgeons have better long-term survival after surgery for colon cancer. The study showed a 70% lower risk of dying over five years compared to patients with less skilled surgeons.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 30, 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.

Dynamic photonic barcodes record energy transfer at the biointerface

Researchers developed bioresponsive dynamic barcodes using cavity-enhanced radiative energy transfer, converting biomolecular information into distinctive photonic barcodes. The system can detect molecules in a droplet with improved signal-to-noise ratio, enabling real-time intermolecular interaction and biosensing applications.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 30, 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.

Phillips studying role-based norm violation response in human-robot teams

Researcher Elizabeth Phillips studies how humans respond to norm violations in robot teams, investigating context-sensitive tradeoffs between rule-based and role-based responses. She aims to develop models that facilitate role-based responses and promote ethical benefits in natural language generation algorithms.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 30, 2020

Bacilli and their enzymes show prospects for several applications

The study highlights the potential of microbial enzymes in addressing global challenges such as Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular therapy and biofilm-related infections. Bacillary proteases have been shown to exhibit fibrinolytic and thrombolytic properties, making them promising alternatives to existing drugs.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateOct 30, 2020

New cause of inflammation in people with HIV identified

A new study led by Boston Medical Center researchers identified the inability to control HIV RNA production from existing HIV DNA as a potential key driver of chronic inflammation in people living with HIV. This finding highlights the need for novel treatments targeting persistent inflammation to improve outcomes.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateOct 30, 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.

Radical changes in ecosystems

Scientists have developed a method to detect radical changes in ecosystems, revealing increased risk of extinction and new species creation. The method tracks ecosystem shifts above a certain threshold, allowing researchers to predict and mitigate the impact of environmental changes.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2020

Hospital floors are hotspot for bacteria, creating route of transfer to patients

A study found that hospital floors are quickly and frequently contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria within hours of patient admission. The researchers observed a significant transfer of pathogens from the floor to patients' socks, bedding, and nearby surfaces, highlighting the need for improved infection control measures.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateOct 30, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Evolution of consumption: A psychological ownership framework

The study explores how technological innovations like digitization and platform markets are eroding psychological ownership, leading to negative consequences for consumers and firms. However, it also highlights opportunities for firms to preserve and recapture psychological ownership through strategic marketing efforts.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 30, 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.

Infection by confection: COVID-19 and the risk of trick-or-treating

Researchers analyzed viral load on Halloween candy handled by COVID-19 patients, finding SARS-CoV-2 on 60% of samples handled normally with unwashed hands. Washing hands before handling candy and washing the candy with household detergent significantly reduced the virus's presence.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalmSystems·DateOct 30, 2020

VUMC study finds faster, wider spread of COVID-19 in US households

A recent study found that COVID-19 spreads rapidly within US households, infecting 51% of individuals living with someone who tested positive. The study discovered that secondary infections occurred within five days of the first household member experiencing symptoms, highlighting the importance of quarantine measures.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateOct 30, 2020

The order of life

Researchers develop model that links movement of predators and prey to segregation of oil and vinegar, expanding theoretical framework from inanimate matter. The model reveals universal characteristics of active living matter, including bacteria, enzymes, and motor proteins.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review X·DateOct 30, 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.

First Australian night bees recorded foraging in darkness

Two Australian bee species have been identified as having adapted their vision for night-time conditions, allowing them to forage in darkness. The study found that these bees develop enlarged compound and simple eyes, enabling them to gather more light than their daytime counterparts.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Hymenoptera Research·DateOct 30, 2020

New drone technology improves ability to forecast volcanic eruptions

Researchers have developed a new drone technology that combines measurements from the air, earth and space to better understand highly active volcanoes. This allows for more accurate forecasting of future eruptions and provides insights into the global carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2020

Mobile smartphone technology is associated with better clinical outcomes for OHCA

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that mobile smartphone technology can improve out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survival. The 'Staying Alive' app, which alerts trained responders to nearby cardiac arrest victims, was found to reduce response times and potentially improve outcomes.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateOct 30, 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.

Smart tablecloth can find fruit and help with watering the plants

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a smart tablecloth that can detect non-metallic objects such as fruits and liquids using an 'implicit input' technique. The system achieved a 94.5% accuracy rate in testing, with notable success in distinguishing between different types of liquids and fruits.

SourceDartmouth College·DateOct 30, 2020

Photopharmacology - A light-trigger for the proteasome

Scientists have created a light-activated chemical inhibitor that can control two fundamental cellular processes: cell division and cell death. This innovation has significant implications for studying cellular functions, understanding medical disorders, and designing new therapeutic strategies.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 30, 2020

New fault zone measurements could help us to understand subduction earthquake

Researchers measured rocks formed by seismic slips in central Japan's subduction zone to identify conditions leading to earthquake faulting. This study provides insights into the thermal fracturing process, which could contribute to generating frictional melt and accelerating seismic slip.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateOct 30, 2020

To survive asteroid impact, algae learned to hunt

Scientists discovered that surviving algae adapted a unique behavior called mixotrophy, allowing them to thrive in the aftermath of an asteroid impact. This adaptation enabled them to eat other organisms while still utilizing photosynthesis to produce food.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2020

Denisovan DNA found in sediments of Baishiya Karst Cave on Tibetan Plateau

Researchers discovered Denisovan DNA in sediments from the Baishiya Karst Cave on the Tibetan Plateau, revealing that Denisovans occupied the region for a long time and had adapted to the high-altitude environment. The findings support the idea that Denisovans had a wide geographic distribution beyond Siberia.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 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.

Coronavirus mutation may have made it more contagious

A study of over 5,000 COVID-19 patients in Houston found that the virus is accumulating genetic mutations, one of which, D614G, may have made it more contagious. This mutation was prevalent in 71% of initial cases and reached 99.9% prevalence during the second wave.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalmBio·DateOct 30, 2020

Collective impact partnership models help close health care workforce gap

The research evaluated effective health sciences and training programs in Career and Technical Education (CTE) to address the healthcare workforce shortage in Virginia. Effective partnership models stimulate growth by building community partnerships, expanding training programs, and providing resources for educators and students.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 30, 2020

Water on ancient Mars

Analysis of a Martian meteorite suggests water was present on ancient Mars around 4.4 billion years ago, raising questions about the origin of water on Earth and potential for life beyond. The finding could impact theories on planetary formation and exploration.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 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.

A malformation illustrates the incredible plasticity of the brain

Researchers from UNIGE discovered that when the neuronal fibres connecting the hemispheres are missing, the brain reorganises itself and creates new connections. Intra-hemispheric connections increase, enabling communication between the two hemispheres to be maintained.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateOct 30, 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.

SARS-CoV-2 might attack red marrow and block new erythrocytes formation

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 attacks red marrow, damaging endothelium and regulating cell migration. This can lead to loss of functional cells, organ failure, and increased risk of secondary infections. The study analyzed lung samples from 79 patients who died from COVID-19.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalArchiv Euromedica·DateOct 30, 2020

Melding biology and physical sciences yields deeper understanding of cancer

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified four distinct physical properties of cancer, including elevated solid stress and increased stiffness, which contribute to its sustained growth and destructive power. These findings point to new research opportunities and treatment approaches.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2020

In a hurry to develop drugs? Here's your cHAT

Rice University scientists have developed a novel 'green' method for producing pharmaceutical intermediates using the cooperative hydrogen atom transfer (cHAT) technique. This approach employs earth-abundant iron and sulfur as catalysts, reducing costs and environmental impact compared to traditional methods.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 30, 2020

Parasitology - Bringing the locals onboard

A new study examines local attitudes towards Chagas disease and its transmission, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive campaigns. The findings suggest that social and cultural factors play a significant role in shaping public perception, particularly regarding preventive measures and treatment options.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 30, 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.

Trial targets deadly lung cancer

A clinical trial is underway to test the safety and feasibility of intrapleural liposomal curcumins as an alternative to chemotherapy for malignant mesothelioma. The researchers aim to reduce toxic side-effects and facilitate early diagnosis with a special lung fluid test.

SourceFlinders University·DateOct 30, 2020

Plankton turn hunters to survive dinosaur-killing asteroid impact

Researchers found that plankton species shifted from relying on sunlight to capturing food and eating it after the asteroid impact, allowing them to survive. This adaptation suggests that the lack of light played a crucial role in killing off some species, but others adapted to thrive.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2020

Beetroot peptide as potential drug candidate for treating diseases

Researchers at MedUni Vienna's Institute of Pharmacology have isolated a beetroot peptide that inhibits prolyl oligopeptidase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of protein hormones in the body. The study suggests that this peptide could be a promising drug candidate for treating neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateOct 30, 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.

AI teachers must be effective and communicate well to be accepted, new study finds

Researchers at the University of Central Florida found that students are more likely to accept an AI teaching assistant if it is effective and easy to communicate with. The study suggests that designing AI teachers to facilitate positive learning experiences requires understanding how students relate to these systems.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Interaction·DateOct 30, 2020

Compression garments reduce strength loss after training

Researchers found that compression garments reduce immediate and delayed strength loss after strenuous exercise, allowing athletes to resume high-intensity training sooner. The study suggests wearing a below-knee compression garment during regular workouts provides mechanical support and tissue compression, reducing the risk of musculo...

SourceTohoku University·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·DateOct 30, 2020

Cancer patients, clinicians find value in electronic real-time symptom

A national multi-institutional study found that cancer patients and their medical teams benefited from sharing symptoms in real time using web- or telephone-based reporting systems. The system improved patient satisfaction, quality of life, physical function, reduced emergency room visits, and lengthened survival.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJCO Clinical Cancer Informatics·DateOct 30, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Physician burnout, sleep disorders

Researchers found a significant association between sleep disorders and symptoms of burnout among faculty and staff. The study suggests that addressing sleep issues may be crucial to mitigating physician burnout.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 30, 2020