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Science News Archive October 2020 - Page 35


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...

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2020

Silence, please: UNSW scientists create quietest semiconductor quantum bits on record

Researchers at UNSW Sydney demonstrated the lowest recorded charge noise for a semiconductor qubit, reducing it by 10 times compared to previous results. The team's achievement shows promise for large-scale error-corrected quantum computers and moves closer to commercializing silicon quantum computers.

SourceCentre for Quantum Computation & Communication Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 8, 2020

The Lancet Respiratory Medicine: Rapid bedside testing is faster than standard centralised PCR testing for COVID-19, and may improve infection control in hospital

A study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that rapid bedside testing for COVID-19 can reduce time to results by up to 80 hours and improve infection control. The test, known as QIAstat-Dx POCT, allows patients to be quickly isolated and treatment to be started immediately.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateOct 8, 2020

Men less likely to see food as national security issue amid pandemic

A study found that men are less empathetic towards temporary agricultural laborers and less concerned about food supply and production as national security issues. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, attitudes shifted towards increased empathy and concern for food security.

SourceWashington State University·JournalApplied Economic Perspectives and Policy·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateOct 8, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Methods·DateOct 8, 2020

New species of aquatic mice discovered, cousins of one of the world's rarest mammals

Researchers have verified the closest cousins of a semi-aquatic mouse thought to be extinct, including two new species discovered through DNA analysis and physical trait comparisons. The findings reveal that these mice are long-legged, use their whiskers to hunt aquatic insects, and have unusually large brains.

SourceField Museum·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateOct 8, 2020

Making bones is less difficult than was previously thought

Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center have redefined bone formation, finding that it does not require complex biomolecules in collagen. This breakthrough simplifies the production of bone substitutes and biomaterials.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptics Letters·DateOct 8, 2020

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...

SourceUniversity of York·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceTampere University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2020
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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJCO Clinical Cancer Informatics·DateOct 8, 2020

New measurements of the solar spectrum verify Einstein's theory of General Relativity

Scientists have successfully measured the iron lines in the solar spectrum using a laser frequency comb and HARPS instrument, verifying one of Einstein's predictions - the gravitational redshift effect. This confirms that General Relativity theory is correct and has significant implications for satellite navigation systems like GPS.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalAtmosphere·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·DateOct 8, 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.

The black hole always chirps twice: New clues deciphering the shape of black holes

Research reveals black holes emit complex signals when observed from their equator, indicating a unique relation between gravitational waves and black hole behavior. The team discovered that the final black hole's cusp emits more intense gravitational waves, producing multiple 'chirps' as it settles to its final form.

SourceThe Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery·JournalCommunications Physics·DateOct 8, 2020

Bacterial cellulose degradation system could give boost to biofuels production

Researchers from Japan's Institute for Molecular Science have described a bacterial cellulose degradation system in detail, revealing its similarities and differences with the fungal system. The study found that the bacterial system exhibits higher processivity, enabling faster cellulose degradation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalClimate Policy·DateOct 8, 2020

Protective antibodies persist for months in survivors of serious COVID-19 infections

A new study found that protective antibodies against COVID-19 persist for four months in survivors of serious infections, making them a valuable tool for tracking the spread of the virus in communities. The study also identified key antibody responses to COVID-19 that are relatively short-lived, declining within two and a half months.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Immunology·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateOct 8, 2020

Mystery solved: How do tips of plants stay virus-free?

Researchers found that WUSCHEL proteins inhibit viral protein production, preventing replication and keeping plants virus-free. The discovery could lead to breeding broad-spectrum antiviral crop varieties in the future.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 8, 2020

Silk fibers improve bioink for 3D-printed artificial tissues and organs

Osaka University researchers have developed a method to enhance the structural integrity of 3D-printed hydrogels containing cells using silk nanofibers. The fibers improve the mechanical properties of the bioink, allowing for more realistic organ printing and reducing cell damage.

SourceOsaka University·JournalMaterials Today Bio·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalLegislative Studies Quarterly·DateOct 8, 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.

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.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·DateOct 8, 2020

Signals from distant stars connect optical atomic clocks across Earth for the first time

Researchers have successfully connected two optical atomic clocks in Italy and Japan, separated by 8700 km, using radio telescopes observing distant stars. This achievement could provide a global infrastructure for high-precision timekeeping and unlock new possibilities for studying fundamental physics and general relativity.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 8, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 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 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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 8, 2020