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Science News Archive October 2020 - Page 25


Page 25 of 47

Bark beetle outbreaks benefit wild bee populations, habitat

Researchers found significant increases in floral abundance and wild bee diversity in spruce beetle-affected forests, compared to similar, undisturbed forests. This is good news for wild bee communities, which have been declining in recent years.

SourceColorado State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 15, 2020

Novel antiviral strategy for treatment of COVID-19

Researchers at HKU have identified a novel antiviral strategy for treating COVID-19, utilizing the metal-based compound ranitidine bismuth citrate (RBC) to suppress SARS-CoV-2 replication. RBC targets the viral helicase Nsp13, reducing viral loads by over 1,000-folds and mitigating symptoms.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Microbiology·DateOct 15, 2020

When feeling the pinch, nuclei instigate cells to escape crowded spaces

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism by which cells detect and respond to mechanical stress, triggered by the deformation of their nuclei. This 'fight or flight' reflex allows cells to rapidly flee crowded environments, a process that is conserved across species and in adulthood.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Star clusters are only the tip of the iceberg

Astronomers at the University of Vienna used machine learning to trace groups of stars born together and found thousands of sibling stars surrounding well-known cores of star clusters. The discovery reveals that star clusters are enclosed in rich halos, or coronae, more than 10 times larger than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateOct 15, 2020

Bisexual adults less likely to enjoy health benefits of education

A new study from Rice University finds that well-educated bisexual adults experience less health benefit from education compared to heterosexual and gay/lesbian adults. This effect is especially true for women, with social stigma and gender discrimination potentially contributing to the disparity.

SourceRice University·DateOct 15, 2020

Study reveals most effective drugs for common type of neuropathic pain

A clinical study has identified the most effective treatments for cryptogenic sensory polyneuropathy (CSPN), a condition affecting over 20 million people in the US. Nortriptyline and duloxetine emerged as top performers, with nortriptyline showing the highest efficacy rate.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateOct 15, 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.

Low-metallicity globular star cluster challenges formation models

Researchers have discovered a massive globular cluster in the Andromeda Galaxy with an unusually low metallicity, challenging current theories on GC formation. The cluster's metallicity is nearly three times lower than previously known limits, suggesting that massive clusters could form from pristine gas in the early Universe.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2020

New research could help millions who suffer from 'ringing in the ears'

Researchers from the University of Minnesota developed a bimodal neuromodulation treatment using sound and electrical stimulation to reduce tinnitus symptoms. The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, showed significant improvements in symptom severity for 86% of participants after 12 weeks of treatment.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 15, 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.

Report finds COVID-19 rate among dentists is less than one percent

A recent report by the American Dental Association found that fewer than one percent of dentists in the US were COVID-19 positive, with 99% using enhanced infection control procedures. The study, which surveyed nearly 2,200 dentists, suggests that dentistry's risk of transmission is lower than initially thought.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateOct 15, 2020

NSF renews Rice-based NEWT Center for water treatment

The Nanotechnology Enabled Water Treatment Center (NEWT) at Rice University has been renewed for five years with a $16.5 million NSF award. The center will focus on developing multifunctional nanomaterials and low-energy desalination technologies to address global water needs.

SourceRice University·DateOct 15, 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.

Survey: More US Adults want the government to have a bigger role in improving peoples' lives than before the pandemic

A new survey found that over 40% of US adults support a stronger government role in society, with majority backing health, unemployment, and income-related policies. The findings suggest growing support for extending social safety net policies passed during the pandemic.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 15, 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.

Examining CBD use for conditions with proven therapies

Researchers examined whether individuals are using cannabidiol (CBD) for diagnosable conditions with evidence-based therapies. The study found that many users were seeking alternative treatments, highlighting the need for more research on CBD's efficacy and safety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 15, 2020

Results from the MITHRAS trial reported at TCT Connect and published in Circulation

The MITHRAS trial found that interventional closure of an iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD) driven by transcatheter mitral valve repair was not superior to conservative medical treatment. The study also revealed that the presence of a persistent iASD is associated with increased long-term mortality and morbidity following TMVR.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·JournalCirculation·DateOct 15, 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.

Lie detection -- Have the experts got it wrong?

A report by University of Portsmouth experts challenges the effectiveness of a commonly used police interview technique for detecting lies. The technique, which has been employed by both the FBI and British police, is deemed unfit for use.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalJournal of Investigative Psychology and Offender Profiling·DateOct 15, 2020

Monash discoveries suggest new breast cancer treatment

Researchers discovered a new combination of treatments that may benefit patients with certain gene mutations. Inhibiting the protein AKT suppressed growth of tumour cells in animal models, while combining dexamethasone with AKT inhibition showed better results.

SourceMonash University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 15, 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.

All-terrain microrobot flips through a live colon

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new type of microrobot that can navigate through the rough terrain of a human colon, enabling potential targeted drug delivery without causing side effects. The microrobots use magnetic fields to tumble and move through the colon, allowing for controlled release of medication.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMicromachines·DateOct 15, 2020

Repurposing drugs for a pan-coronavirus treatment

A large international consortium of researchers has studied three coronaviruses, identifying common molecular mechanisms and potential drug targets for rapid treatment response. The study also analyzed clinical data to identify effective FDA-approved therapeutics for COVID-19 patients.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory - European Bioinformatics Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2020

AJTMH tip sheet for October 2020

Researchers found that hypochlorous acid can chemically modify malodorous compounds and rapidly inactivate infectious particles, promoting greater latrine use. The study also shows potential for HOCl to improve latrine odor and reduce transmission of diseases such as dengue fever.

SourceBurness·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 15, 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.

Study reveals the influence of race correction in kidney disease care

Researchers found that using the race multiplier correction factor for Black patients with chronic kidney disease can lead to delayed referrals and critical conversations about dialysis. Removing this factor could reclassify up to one-third of Black patients to a more severe stage of CKD.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 15, 2020

Fraction of money earmarked for COVID-19 recovery could boost climate efforts

A new study suggests that investing in climate-positive recovery plans for the global energy system could put the world on track to meet the Paris Agreement goals. Investing just a tenth of the $12 trillion pledged in stimulus packages over five years in climate-friendly policies could achieve net zero carbon energy by mid-century.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2020

Cartilage-Inspired, Lipid-Based and Super Slippery Synthetic Hydrogels

Researchers designed hydrogels with self-renewing, lipid-based boundary layers, reducing friction by a near 100-fold. The approach maintains lubricity after drying and rehydration, opening potential applications in tissue engineering and biosensor development.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 2020

AI traffic congestion research earns Future Leaders Fellowship

Dr. Mauro Vallati will receive a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship to develop AI-driven frameworks for tackling traffic congestion and environmental issues in urban areas. The research aims to optimize traffic light settings, communicate with vehicles, and reduce pollution.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateOct 15, 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.

Researchers step toward understanding how toxic PFAS chemicals spread from release sites

A study by Brown University researchers reveals that firefighting foams contain a complex mixture of PFAS compounds that behave differently than individual substances. The findings suggest that these foams have a greater affinity for the air-water interface, which can help predict pollution spread and inform cleanup efforts.

SourceBrown University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 15, 2020

What fuels the beating heart? Study reveals nutrients used by normal and failing hearts

A recent study has provided a detailed picture of fuel and nutrient use by the human heart, establishing a new framework for studying heart function in health and disease. The study found that healthy hearts rely heavily on fatty acids as energy sources, while failing hearts consume more ketones and release more amino acids.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateOct 15, 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.

Australian carp virus plan 'dead in the water'

A new study by the University of Exeter and the University of East Anglia demonstrates that Common Carp would evolve resistance to KHV, rendering it ineffective. The research highlights the need for alternative control methods to mitigate ecological damage caused by invasive carp.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateOct 15, 2020

Ingestible capsule that could help demystify the gut-brain axis

Researchers at the University of Maryland are developing an ingestible capsule that can monitor and model gut microbiome serotonin activity. The platform provides access to the specific site of serotonin production, allowing for real-time processing and neurological effects assessment.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateOct 15, 2020

Remembering novelty

Researchers have identified a new key player in long-term memory formation, the connection between mossy cells and granule cells in the hippocampus. This discovery sheds light on how new environments are processed and stored in the brain.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 15, 2020

Predicting influenza epidemics

The study developed a unique method to forecast influenza epidemics using real episode data and consultations about symptoms, achieving accurate results for all seasons under stable conditions. The forecasts can help redistribute resources effectively during an epidemic, with potential applications in the ongoing corona pandemic as well.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateOct 15, 2020

Phosphate polymer forms a cornerstone of metabolic control

Researchers discovered that polyphosphate synthesis is deeply integrated with cellular metabolism, allowing organisms to adapt to nutrient deprivation. This knowledge could enable scientists to engineer the metabolism of organisms to be more resilient in a range of environments.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 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.

Researchers develop framework to identify health impacts of self-driving vehicles

Texas A&M University researchers developed a conceptual model to systematically identify the potential health impacts of autonomous vehicles (AVs). The study found 17 risk factors that could negatively impact public health, while eight had positive effects. Seven areas of uncertain implications require further investigation.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·DateOct 15, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Marriage or not? Rituals help dating couples decide relationship future

A University of Illinois study found that rituals in dating relationships can magnify normative experiences and provide a preview into family life and couple life. Rituals have the power to bond individuals and serve as diagnostic tools for where the relationship is going.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 15, 2020