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Science News Archive October 2020 - Page 17


Page 17 of 47

New research reveals why low oxygen damages the brain

A new study reveals that brain cell dysfunction in low oxygen is caused by the body's protective response system, which ultimately impairs brain cell function. Researchers have identified a class of drugs that can overcome this damage and restore brain-stem cell function.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateOct 21, 2020

Opioid use disorder? Electronic health records help pinpoint probable patients

A new study by researchers from Florida Atlantic University and Geisinger shows that electronic health records can help pinpoint patients with opioid use disorder. By analyzing EHR data, researchers were able to identify more patients with moderate-to-severe opioid use disorder than relying on diagnostic codes alone.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 21, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Brigham researchers make strides in detecting preeclampsia risk

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified several biomarkers that can predict the risk of preeclampsia from a blood sample drawn at 12 weeks gestation. The study also found possible subtypes of preeclampsia linked to platelet dysfunction and complement system dysfunction.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 21, 2020

Smile, wave: Some exoplanets may be able to see us, too

Astronomers have identified 1,004 main-sequence stars that might contain Earth-like planets in their habitable zones, all within 300 light-years of Earth. These exoplanets could detect signs of a biosphere in Earth's atmosphere.

SourceCornell University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 21, 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.

Building blocks of language evolved 30-40 million years ago

Researchers from the University of Warwick found that monkeys, apes, and humans can process relationships between words in a sentence, including non-adjacent dependencies. This ability predates the evolution of language itself by at least 30-40 million years.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 21, 2020

Why can our brains learn and memorize?

Researchers have created a detailed model of how the brain learns and memorizes, shedding light on long-term potentiation and depression. The model simulates the competition between exocytosis and endocytosis of AMPA-type glutamate receptors, revealing the molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory formation.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 21, 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.

The highest heat-resistant plastic ever is developed from biomass

Researchers at JAIST and U-Tokyo successfully developed a thermodegradable aromatic polymer with the highest heat resistance of all reported plastics, using cellulosic biomass as feedstock. The plastic exhibits superior thermostability over 740°C and is lightweight, making it suitable for circular economy applications.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateOct 21, 2020

Aging alone does not explain kidney pathology

Researchers analyzed 1,347 nephrectomy specimens to understand kidney histopathological findings. They found that more scarring in glomerulus, tubules/interstitium, and vessels is associated with worse kidney function.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateOct 21, 2020

OPD optical sensors that reproduce any color

Researchers at POSTECH developed thin-film organic photodiodes with accurate and simple junction engineering, controlling spectral response of wavelengths. This innovation enables the production of color-filter-free optical sensors, a significant advancement in replacing silicon photodiodes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateOct 21, 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.

ALMA shows volcanic impact on Io's atmosphere

A team of astronomers used ALMA to capture radio images of Io during eclipses, showing the direct effect of volcanic activity on its atmosphere. They found that active volcanoes produce 30-50 percent of Io's atmosphere, with potassium chloride also present in volcanic regions.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateOct 21, 2020

Observed COVID-19 variability may have underlying molecular sources

A UC Riverside-led study found that COVID-19 variability may have underlying molecular sources in SARS-CoV-2 host gene expression. The researchers identified specific genes, such as ACE2 and CLEC4G, that are variably expressed and linked to infection susceptibility and symptom severity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInformatics in Medicine Unlocked·DateOct 21, 2020

New drug that can prevent the drug resistance and adverse effects

Researchers have developed a new cancer-specific anticancer drug that can prevent drug resistance and reduce side effects. The drug is designed to release an anticancer agent along with a drug-resistance inhibitor in cancer cells, effectively treating cancers without recurrence or treatment failure.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalBiomaterials·DateOct 21, 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.

More turkey dinners for people with celiac disease?

A study published in Science Translational Medicine found that tryptophan, an amino acid present in turkey, combined with certain probiotics, can help individuals with celiac disease heal and manage symptoms. The research suggests targeting tryptophan metabolism in the gut may offer a potential therapy for better symptom control.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 21, 2020

A flexible color-changing film inspired by chameleon skin (video)

Researchers created a flexible film that changes color in response to stretching, pressure, or humidity, mimicking the color-changing properties of chameleon skin. The film is made from renewable cellulose nanocrystals and has potential applications in anti-counterfeiting measures, strain sensing, and encryption.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 21, 2020

Cancer-linked enzyme mechanism newly characterized in study

Researchers identify lysine acetylation as key regulator of Pif1 helicase, a protein involved in genome stability and cancer. The study's findings could lead to more targeted cancer therapies by fine-tuning drugs to target specific enzymes.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 21, 2020

Oxygen can do a favor to synthesize metal-organic frameworks

Chemists from the Center for Multidimensional Carbon Materials discovered how oxygen affects the synthesis of a novel MOF; copper 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-benznetriol metal-organic framework. Oxygen prevents ligands from reducing Cu ions to Cu metal, facilitating MOF synthesis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 21, 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.

Genomic differences may be key to overcoming prostate cancer disparities

African American men are more susceptible to prostate cancer due to immune-oncologic differences, which can be exploited for personalized treatment options. The study found elevated immune pathways and higher expression of T lymphocytes in African American prostate tumors, suggesting better responses to radiotherapy and immunotherapy.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 21, 2020

Princeton and Mpala scholars link obesity and disease to dramatic dietary changes

A study by Princeton and Mpala scholars found a significant increase in obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses among Turkana people who shifted from an animal-based diet to one rich in carbohydrates. The researchers attributed this 'mismatch' between the diet and human evolution to the drastic change in lifestyle.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 21, 2020

Novel method for measuring spatial dependencies turns less data into more data

A novel method for measuring spatial dependencies uses mathematical techniques normally used for time-series analysis to identify influences between geographic phenomena in small data sets. The approach allows for robust inferences of influences and interpolations to intermediate areas or distant regions, even with limited data.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateOct 21, 2020

Delivering proteins to testes could someday treat male infertility

Researchers have developed a protein delivery system that restored normal sperm development and allowed previously infertile mice to father pups. The treatment delivered a key protein called PIN1 directly to mouse testicles, repairing damaged reproductive cells and improving fertility.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 21, 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.

Hidden states of the COVID-19 spike protein

A joint UC Berkeley-ITU team uses molecular dynamics simulations and single molecule experiments to identify the processes that happen when the virus binds to human cells. They discover intermediate states and specific amino acids that stabilize each state, which may lead to targeted treatments.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 21, 2020

High flavanol diet may lead to lower blood pressure

Researchers found that consuming flavanol-rich foods and drinks, such as tea and apples, can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure. The study used objective measures of thousands of UK residents' diet and found a comparable effect to Mediterranean and DASH diets.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 21, 2020

Scientists take major step toward Angelman Syndrome gene therapy

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine show that gene editing with CRISPR-Cas9 can restore function in an animal model of Angelman syndrome. The therapy was effective in restoring the UBE3A enzyme in human neurons and treating deficits in an animal model, offering a long-lasting treatment or cure for this debilitating disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 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.

PIDS honors Dr. Penny M. Heaton

Dr. Penny M. Heaton is honored with the PIDS Distinguished Research Award for her outstanding contributions to vaccine clinical research and development. She leads efforts at the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute, optimizing therapeutics, vaccines, and monoclonal antibody candidates.

SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateOct 21, 2020

ASTRO issues clinical guideline on radiation therapy for rectal cancer

The new guideline provides options for different treatments to improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Recommendations address patient selection, pelvic radiation treatments, integration with chemotherapy and surgery, and follow-up care.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateOct 21, 2020

Existing heart drugs may help cancer patients respond better to PD(L)1 immunotherapy

Researchers found that angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), commonly used for high blood pressure and heart failure, may increase the likelihood of responding to anti-PD(L)1 therapy. Patients taking ARBs showed a statistically significant improvement in objective response rate and complete response rate compared to those not taking them.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·DateOct 21, 2020

Five key factors for improving team learning in distance education

The redesigned course overcomes obstacles of collaborative learning online, including teacher confidence, student resistance, and plagiarism. The five key elements - student-focused and active, structured in phases, multi-format, 360 assessment, and proactive online professor - improve student satisfaction and teamwork skills.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalAmerican Journal of Distance Education·DateOct 21, 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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found a 10-fold increased risk of COVID-19-related death in individuals with Down syndrome. Meanwhile, the FDA is reevaluating its REMS program for mifepristone to improve women's health access during the pandemic and post-pandemic

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 21, 2020

Simple software creates complex wooden joints

Researchers created Tsugite, a 3D design application to simplify wood joint creation and fabrication. The system allows users to design functional wooden structures quickly and efficiently, without nails or glue, promoting sustainability and flexibility in construction.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·DateOct 21, 2020

Cognitive performance - Better than our predecessors

A new study using chess game data shows that cognitive capacity increases steadily until around the middle of the fourth decade before plateauing. Modern 30-year-olds exhibit a higher level of cognitive ability than those born 100 years ago at the same age.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2020

Serum creatinine-to- cystatin C ratio predicts mortality

Higher serum creatinine-to-cystatin C ratios are associated with lower mortality rates in patients initiating continuous renal replacement therapy for acute kidney injury. This simple tool may improve mortality risk assessment in critically ill patients developing AKI.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateOct 21, 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.

Study discovers potential target for treating aggressive cancer cells

A new study by Brown University scientists has identified vimentin as a potential target for treating aggressive cancer cells known as polyploidal giant cancer cells (PGCCs). PGCCs have been found to rely on vimentin to migrate and invade surrounding tissues.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2020

Study finds go-to hormone for cycad propagation ineffective

A new study published in HortScience found that the commonly used rooting hormone IBA has no effect on cycad propagation, contrary to previous research. The study's findings highlight the need for further research on cycads and could improve conservation efforts in countries where commercial IBA products are difficult to obtain.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalHortScience·DateOct 21, 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.

Vanilla cultivation under trees promotes pest regulation

Research by the University of Göttingen found that vanilla plantations with more trees have higher predator activity, which can lead to better pest control. This study contributes to understanding the ecological function of species involved in agroforestry systems and supports the UN's ecosystem restoration goals.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateOct 21, 2020

Cognitive elements of language have existed for 40 million years

Researchers found that monkeys, chimpanzees, and humans share the ability to process non-adjacent dependencies, a crucial element of language. This suggests that this cognitive skill existed in our most recent common ancestors with these species around 40 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 21, 2020

Player behavior in the online game EVE Online may reflect real world country

A study found that EVE Online players' in-game social and economic behavior correlates with their home countries' aggressiveness and macro-economic environment. Players from more aggressive countries were less aggressive towards fellow players, while those from countries with higher unemployment rates traded more cautiously.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 2020

Nonverbal doctor-patient rapport relieved pain during acupuncture treatment

A new study has found that establishing a positive clinical rapport between doctors and patients can relieve pain during acupuncture treatment. Patients who mirrored their doctor's facial expressions experienced less pain, while stronger brain alignment was associated with improved treatment outcomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 21, 2020

Bronze Age herders were less mobile than previously thought

Research on Bronze Age pastoral societies in southern Russia reveals low levels of mobility, contradicting previous assumptions about their migration patterns. The study analyzed skeletal remains to conclude that these communities remained within their ecological areas and relied on word-of-mouth transmission of technical innovations.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 21, 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.

In pursuit of alternative pesticides

Scientists are developing safer alternatives to chlorpyrifos, a widely used insecticide linked to human health problems and environmental damage. Researchers are testing biodegradable hydrogel beads, targeted soil treatments, and root-based applications to minimize exposure in agricultural workers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 21, 2020

At our cores, we're all strengthened by 'dumbbells'

Researchers identify 'dumbbell-like' structures in DNA that link to genes with flexible domains, suggesting a connection between chromosome structure and gene expression. The discovery promises new avenues for research into the secrets of chromosomes.

SourceRice University·DateOct 21, 2020