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Science News Archive October 2020


Page 35 of 47

Data science professor receives $1.25 million from Department of Defense

Justin Zhan, a data science professor at the University of Arkansas, has received a $1.25 million grant to develop novel algorithms for enhancing computational speed and efficiency in applications requiring massive amounts of streaming data. His research aims to improve operational robustness, computational speed, and efficiency in too...

Sustainable space management at risk under US-centric policies

Sustainable space management is at risk under US-centric policies that prioritize national regulation over international cooperation. The Artemis Accords could lead to a 'race to the bottom' in space mining regulations, threatening lunar stability and increasing asteroid mining risks.

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.

Setting a TRAP for pandemic-causing viruses

Nagoya University scientists have developed a laboratory technique to rapidly select synthetic proteins that strongly bind to SARS-CoV-2. The approach, called TRAP display, could be used to develop sensitive antigen tests and neutralization antibodies for infected patients.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Olympic athletes should be mindful of their biological clocks

A study by chronobiologists from the University of Groningen found that Olympic swimmers performed best in the finals due to their biological clock. The researchers analyzed times from four Olympic Games and found a significant sinusoid performance pattern over the course of a day, with peak performance occurring late afternoon.

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.

New model may explain rarity of certain malaria-blocking mutations

A new computational model suggests that certain protective mutations against malaria have not become widespread due to rapid immune system adaptation, making it less likely for these mutations to spread among the population. The study highlights the need for further genetic studies of populations living in regions impacted by malaria.

Scientists peer inside an asteroid

The OSIRIS-REx mission has mapped the gravity field of asteroid Bennu, revealing a weaker and less dense core than previously thought. This could put the asteroid's survival at risk in the near future as it may slowly spin itself apart.

Minimizing the movement problem in single-particle cryo-EM

Researchers developed a novel grid to minimize sample movement in single-particle cryo-EM, resulting in higher image quality and increased data throughput. The new support film, dubbed 'hexAuFoil,' reduces particle displacement and enables the collection of clearer protein structures.

The NIH funds a $9.3 million Center for Precision Animal Modeling at UAB

The NIH-funded Center for Precision Animal Modeling (C-PAM) at UAB enables precise diagnoses and treatments by creating patient-specific disease models. C-PAM's cutting-edge capabilities will help predict possible treatments that can be tested in the models, aiding in the search for unique therapies.

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.

Contest awards startups poised to transform health care

The M2D2 $200K Challenge recognizes promising ventures developing groundbreaking medical devices and biotechnology innovations to improve healthcare outcomes. The competition provides funding, in-kind support, and expert resources to accelerate their progress.

New algorithm sharpens focus of world's most powerful microscopes

A new computer algorithm improves the quality of 3D molecular structure maps generated with cryo-electron microscopy, enabling researchers to determine atomic-level structural models. The algorithm enhances map resolution and visibility, particularly for complex biological molecules.

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.

Stress-free gel

Scientists at the University of Tokyo developed a method for creating stress-free gels with less internal mechanical stress by delaying network formation. This breakthrough may help understand biological processes involving cytoplasm and improve industrial processes that create semisolid products, such as foodstuffs.

Terahertz zaps alter gene activity in stem cells

Researchers from Kyoto University and Tokai University have developed a new apparatus to study terahertz radiation's effects on human stem cells. The findings reveal that terahertz pulses activate genes involved in motor neuron survival and mitochondrial function, while deactivating those involved in cell differentiation.

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.

Potential COVID-19 vaccines not affected by dominant "G-Strain"

A recent study has found that potential COVID-19 vaccines are not affected by the dominant 'G-strain' of the virus. The G-strain now accounts for about 85 per cent of published SARS-CoV-2 genomes, but vaccine candidates targeting the spike protein remain effective. This discovery is good news for the hundreds of vaccines in development...

Scientists reconstruct beetles from the Cretaceous

A research team led by the University of Bonn has reconstructed four newly found beetle species using computer tomography, providing insights into their morphology and evolutionary history. The study suggests that beetles suffered a decrease in diversity during the Cretaceous period as plants transitioned from gymnosperms to angiosperms.

Researchers gain new insight on metastatic prostate cancer

A study by Tampere University and the University of Oxford has identified a principle that explains how prostate cancer spreads, with implications for liquid biopsy. Researchers discovered that not all subclones spread to the entire body, and some may be confined to the prostate.

Novel digital dashboard improves cancer case review efficiency

A new digital dashboard, NAVIFY Tumor Board, has been shown to significantly reduce the time spent preparing for cancer treatment cases by 30%, while also improving access to relevant clinical data. The study found that this improvement was sustained over time and resulted in reduced administrative burdens for healthcare professionals.

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.

Arctic weather observations can improve hurricane track forecast accuracy

A new study found that including Arctic radiosonde data reduces uncertainty in forecasting hurricanes' tracks, particularly when upper-level troughs affect their movements. This improvement can lead to better preparation and mitigation of human casualties and socioeconomic losses caused by these storms.

Drug combination proves effective in rare peripheral nerve sheath tumours

Researchers have discovered a combination of MEK and SHP2 inhibitors effective in targeting the mechanism driving cancer growth in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours. The treatment has shown promise in both cell culture and mouse models, offering hope for improved treatment outcomes for patients.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

Low-hanging fruit

A study suggests that reducing indirect greenhouse gas emissions from UC campus food systems can be achieved through a shift towards more plant-based options. The researchers found that changing the food system could reduce emissions by 42-55% and align with the system's carbon neutrality goals.

Cannabis ads and store location influence youth marijuana use

A recent study found that regular exposure to marijuana advertising on storefronts and billboards increased the likelihood of adolescents using marijuana. Location of retail stores also played a role, with participants who lived close to shops being more likely to report intentions to use the drug.

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.

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.

Treating cystic fibrosis with mRNA therapy or CRISPR

A genotype-agnostic gene therapy for cystic fibrosis has shown promise in clinical trials, potentially treating the disease in any patient, independent of their underlying mutation. Challenges remain to be overcome, including developing effective drug delivery systems that can reach pulmonary epithelial cells at low doses.

New drug carrier systems

University of Delaware researchers develop tiny cargo-carrying systems that can selectively bind to degrading collagen, providing site-specific medicine delivery over longer periods. These nanoparticle carriers have the potential to improve treatment for diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Psychology: Human spatial memory prioritizes high calorie foods

A study found that humans more accurately recall the locations of high-calorie foods than low-calorie foods. Participants presented with food samples were 27% more accurate at mapping high-calorie foods to the correct location, while those presented with food-scented cotton pads showed a 28% accuracy boost.

HKU Engineering team develops novel miniaturised organic semiconductor

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) team has made a breakthrough in developing miniaturized organic semiconductors for flexible electronics. The new device demonstrates a record low contact resistance, enabling significant power savings and reduced heat generation.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

SwRI scientists study the rugged surface of near-Earth asteroid Bennu

SwRI scientists studied the color, reflectivity, age, composition, origin and distribution of materials on asteroid Bennu's surface. The mission discovered carbon-bearing compounds and minerals containing or formed by water, which will help determine the scenarios that best explain Bennu's surface composition.

Women's incomes improve when democrats hold public office, study finds

Research from the University of California San Diego reveals that Democratic control of state houses leads to significant improvement in women's incomes and wages relative to men. Women's wages average only 70% of men's wages but decline by 3.6 percentage points after Democrats are elected in a state.

How an egg cell's "operating manual" sets the stage for fertility

A recent study by Carnegie Institution scientists mapped gene activity in thousands of immature egg cells and helper cells to understand how ovaries maintain female fertility. The research showed that follicles, where eggs mature, have a finite number of cell clusters assembled before birth.

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.

Cannabis use appears to encourage, not replace, non-medical opioid use

A new study published in Addiction suggests that cannabis use does not substitute for non-medical opioids among adults with problem substance use. The longitudinal study of 211 participants found that opioid use was at least as high on days when cannabis was used as on days when it was not.

In New York City, behavioral "nudges" improve court attendance

A new study from New York City finds that behavioral interventions, or "nudges," can reduce failures to appear (FTAs) in court for low-level offenses. Simplifying court summons forms and text message reminders improved attendance by 13% and 25%, respectively, leading to 30,000 fewer arrest warrants over a three-year period.

Study finds fungal disease of snakes in 19 states, Puerto Rico

A study has found fungal disease in snakes on military bases in 19 states and Puerto Rico, infecting 17% of the sampled snakes. The disease, known as ophidiomycosis, can cause a range of clinical signs, including skin lesions and death, and may threaten biodiversity across several habitats.