Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive October 2020 - Page 29


Page 29 of 47

DNA-peptide interactions create complex behaviours which may have helped shape biology

New research reveals that simple DNA-peptide interactions can generate a surprising diversity of compartmentalised higher-ordered phase behaviours, suggesting these polymers' primordial interactions may have helped create modern complex biological structures. The study found that changes in environmental conditions, such as salinity or...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 14, 2020

COVID-19 rapid test has successful lab results, research moves to next stages

Researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno have developed a novel COVID-19 rapid test using a nanotube-based electrochemical biosensor that detects SARS-CoV-2 virus in nasal swabs or exhaled breath. The test is simple, inexpensive, and non-invasive, with potential applications for diagnosis of other respiratory viral diseases.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalSensors·DateOct 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Workplace wellness programs could improve if more personalized, study shows

A new study found that personal and psychological characteristics significantly impact progress in workplace wellness programs. The research suggests that tailoring nudges to an individual's behavior profile can unlock full potential, leading to improved outcomes. For some groups, ongoing incentives may be necessary to sustain motivation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 14, 2020

Researchers improve the standard method for assessing cardiovascular disease risk

Researchers developed a risk-scoring calculation that adds blood and urine measures of kidney disease to the current standard method for assessing cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that adding these measures can result in large increases in cardiovascular disease-risk estimates among patients with severe kidney disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateOct 14, 2020

Gold- and bronze-like paints that don't contain metal

Scientists have created a new class of paints that can achieve the lustrous metallic look of gold or bronze without using metal flakes. The organic dyes can be dissolved in water and are stable over time, making them suitable for commercial use in ink-jet printers and potentially in electronic systems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateOct 14, 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.

Updated recommendations for preventing, treating HIV infection

The International Antiviral Society-USA has updated its guidelines for preventing and treating HIV infection in adults, emphasizing the importance of antiretroviral therapy and pre-exposure prophylaxis. The new recommendations aim to improve treatment adherence and reduce HIV transmission.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 14, 2020

More diversity needed in oil palm plantations

Research shows that information campaigns and free seedlings can encourage diversification in oil palm plantations, increasing tree planting and survival rates. The study emphasizes the need for policies that consider both supply-side and demand-side impacts to reduce environmental degradation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateOct 14, 2020

Researchers use lab-grown tissue grafts for personalized joint replacement

A multidisciplinary team has bioengineered living cartilage-bone TMJ grafts using the recipient's own cells, demonstrating effectiveness in a clinically sized swine model. The grafts integrated well with surrounding tissues and provided biological and mechanical function similar to the native joint.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 14, 2020

Closing the market for fake documents on the open web

A Michigan State University researcher found that counterfeit identity documents are being sold on the open web, with most buyers seeking passports from European countries. The study also revealed that vendors use specific language to appeal to their audience and often offer discounts for referrals.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalDeviant Behavior·DateOct 14, 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.

Scientists shed new light on viruses' role in coral bleaching

Researchers at Oregon State University found that viral infection is involved in coral bleaching, with bleached corals having a higher abundance of eukaryotic viruses and giant viruses. These findings suggest that viral assemblages shift between coral bleaching states.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateOct 14, 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.

Experiencing police violence worsens mental health in distinct ways

Research reveals unique effects of police violence on mental health, including trauma, biological changes, and stigmatization. Communities of color are disproportionately affected by police violence, leading to diminished self-worth and increased risk of death at the hands of police.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 13, 2020

RUDN University mathematician refined the model of predator-prey relations in the wild

A RUDN University mathematician has enhanced the standard predator-prey model to include nonlocal interactions, which affect system dynamics and lead to different patterns of predation and prey growth. This improved model will help ecologists better understand natural systems and predict their development.

SourceRUDN University·JournalCommunications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation·DateOct 13, 2020

Clinical trial to investigate whether vitamin D protects against COVID-19

A new clinical trial launched by Queen Mary University of London aims to investigate whether taking vitamin D can protect people from COVID-19. The study, which will involve over 5,000 participants, will test the effectiveness of a 'test-and-treat' approach to correct vitamin D deficiency during winter.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·DateOct 13, 2020

NASA sees Tropical Storm Nangka soaking Hainan Island

Tropical Storm Nangka generated up to 30 mm of rain per hour around its center, while fragmented bands experienced rates between 5-15 mm/hour. The storm is forecast to strengthen in the Gulf of Tonkin before weakening as it moves towards Vietnam.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateOct 13, 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.

Temperature evolution of impurities in a quantum gas

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about the role of heat in quantum impurity studies, extending our understanding of thermodynamics. The study reveals that two distinct experimental protocols probe the same information, providing new insights into quantum correlations.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 13, 2020

Neural crest cell migration in Hirschsprung disease

Laminin plays a crucial role in regulating interactions between migrating neural crest cells and the extracellular matrix. The study found that alterations in LAMR expression contribute to neural crest cell migration failure in Hirschsprung disease, leading to colonization of the distal colon when YIGSR is applied.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateOct 13, 2020

New global temperature data will inform study of climate impacts on health, agriculture

A new data set provides high-resolution daily temperatures from around the globe to study human health impacts from heat waves, risks to agriculture, droughts, and food insecurity. The CHIRTS-daily dataset offers accurate estimates of air temperatures for 1983-2016, supporting efforts to monitor, understand, and mitigate climate hazards.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScientific Data·DateOct 13, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

On the trail of novel infectious agents in wildlife

Researchers characterize a new bacterial species causing severe respiratory disease in peccaries, contributing to better understanding of rare pathogens. The discovery uses MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for rapid and reliable identification.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateOct 13, 2020

Cognitive behavioral therapy normalizes brain abnormality in OCD patients

Researchers found abnormalities in brain areas including caudate that normalized after four weeks of CBT, but not in those who didn't receive treatment. Pre-treatment HRF patterns can predict individual patient response to CBT with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalBrain Imaging and Behavior·DateOct 13, 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.

New study shows which medical procedures pose COVID-19 risk to health-care providers

A new study has identified autopsy, airway suctioning, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation as aerosol-generating procedures that require enhanced personal protective equipment. The research aims to prevent healthcare workers from becoming infected with COVID-19, protecting them from severe disease and maintaining staffing levels during t...

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalBMJ Open Respiratory Research·DateOct 13, 2020

First report on the impact of European incubators and accelerators

The report analyzes 1217 European incubators and accelerators in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, providing insights into their impact, services, and focus on social entrepreneurship. The study reveals a high number of employees (7165) and a prevalence of corporate and university incubators.

SourcePolitecnico di Torino·DateOct 13, 2020

Study: There's work to be done before people feel ready for COVID-19 vaccine

A new study indicates that public messaging is crucial before COVID-19 vaccines are released in the US. The research shows that 68% of respondents support vaccination but concerns remain about side effects and vaccine effectiveness. Addressing these concerns is critical to increasing vaccine uptake, according to senior author Brian Poole.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalVaccines·DateOct 13, 2020

A call for more comprehensive smoking cessation programs for cancer patients who smoke

Research shows that intensive smoking cessation counseling for newly diagnosed cancer patients improves quality of life, reduces complications and increases survival. The study found that providing six months of inexpensive tobacco cessation support at diagnosis can result in significant cost savings and improved health outcomes.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJAMA·DateOct 13, 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.

Combination therapy against cancer

Scientists from Germany and China combine chemotherapeutic and photodynamic agents in a nanocapsule to destroy cancer cells. The treatment is effective against resistant tumors and stops tumor growth in live mice, offering a promising new approach to cancer therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 13, 2020

Physical activity in the morning could be most beneficial against cancer

Research suggests that performing physical activity in the morning can significantly reduce breast and prostate cancer risk. The study found that exercising between 8-10 am had the strongest protective effect, particularly for individuals with late chronotypes.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateOct 13, 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.

Modeling organic-field effect transistors with a molecular resolution

Recent advances in OFET device models incorporate molecular-level parameters, enabling more accurate simulation of micrometer-sized devices. These models have improved the understanding of charge-transport mechanisms and provided insights into nonlinear current characteristics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 13, 2020

Research team discovers mechanism that restores cell function after genome damage

A research team from Cologne has discovered a mechanism that restores cell function after genome damage by altering the DNA structure. The discovery involves a double occupation of two methyl groups on the histone protein H3K4me2, which enables genes to be reactivated and proteins to be produced after damage.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 13, 2020

New discovery opens for breakthrough in laser technology

Researchers at Aarhus University have discovered a method to narrow laser linewidth by up to 500 times, enabling higher-order modulation formats in coherent communication. This breakthrough technology has the potential to increase optical network transport capacity and simplify laser packaging for real-world applications.

SourceAarhus University·DateOct 13, 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.

If the glove fits

Israeli archaeologists discover that the inner-rim diameter of storage jars in Israel over 350 years conformed to the palm width of a male hand, matching the original biblical measurements of tefach. The consistent measurement may reflect ancient potters' use of palm as a standard diameter for jar openings.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalBulletin of the American Schools of Oriental Research·DateOct 13, 2020

Watching nature on TV can boost wellbeing, finds new study

Watching high-quality nature programs on TV can uplift moods and reduce negative emotions, while experiencing virtual reality nature can lead to increased positive feelings and a stronger connection to the natural world. The study found that interactive VR experiences had the most significant benefits.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateOct 13, 2020

Cameras that can learn

Researchers from the University of Bristol and Manchester have developed cameras that can learn and process visual information in real-time, eliminating the need to record and transmit images. This breakthrough enables intelligent machines to perceive the world more efficiently and securely.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateOct 13, 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.

Perception of risk and optimism barriers in behavior during coronavirus

A study by King's College London found that people tend to believe they are less likely to contract COVID-19 than others, leading to comparative optimism and potentially poorer compliance with lockdown guidelines. This perception of low risk can make individuals more relaxed about future lockdown measures, increasing the likelihood of ...

SourceKing's College London·JournalHealth Expectations·DateOct 13, 2020

Sleep health dictates success of practicing mindfulness

Research published in Sleep Health found that extra 29 minutes of sleep per night can improve mindfulness, reducing daytime sleepiness. Better sleep leads to greater mindful attention, essential for healthcare workers providing care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalSleep Health·DateOct 13, 2020

IU study examines effects of low-level lead exposure and alcohol consumption

A new IU study found that low-level developmental lead exposure in mice may increase the propensity to relapse to alcohol consumption, making it harder for individuals to refrain from turning back to alcohol. The research also highlights the potential harm of even low levels of lead exposure and its association with cognitive impairments.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateOct 13, 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.

Young women who suffer a heart attack have worse outcomes than men

Women aged 50 or younger with a heart attack face higher mortality rates compared to their male counterparts. The study found that women were less likely to undergo invasive procedures after admission and to be treated with certain medications upon discharge.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateOct 13, 2020

And the winner is... dependent on judging accountability

Research shows that high-status individuals can face biases in award decisions when judged publicly, but benefits from close social ties to judges in private settings. The study emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency in decision-making processes.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 13, 2020

Evolution: No social distancing at the beginning of life

A recent study challenges traditional views of bacterial life, finding that biofilms exhibit characteristics similar to animal embryogenesis. Researchers discovered that bacteria follow a developmental pattern, with stage-organized architecture and increased use of multicellularity genes, similar to those found in animal development.

SourceRuđer Bošković Institute·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateOct 13, 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.

Perovskite materials: Neutrons show twinning in halide perovskites

Scientists have used neutrons to study the twin structure of halide perovskites, a class of materials crucial for high-efficiency solar cells. The research reveals that crystals grown at room temperature also form twins, providing new insights into their crystallization and growth process.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 13, 2020

How deadly parasites 'glide' into human cells

Scientists discovered how deadly parasites from the phylum Apicomplexa, such as Plasmodium and Toxoplasma, glide into human cells using actin and myosin proteins. The study reveals the molecular structure of essential light chains that facilitate gliding movements.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCommunications Biology·DateOct 13, 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.