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Science News Archive September 2020 - Page 25


Page 25 of 49
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.

New data processing module makes deep neural networks smarter

A new data processing module called attentive normalization improves the performance of deep neural networks by combining feature normalization and feature attention. The hybrid module significantly increases accuracy while using negligible extra computational power, and facilitates better transfer learning between different domains.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateSep 16, 2020

Climate crisis ages fish, amphibians and reptiles

Research suggests that climate change is causing ectothermic animals like fish, amphibians, and reptiles to age faster due to increased growth rates and heat stress. This can lead to reduced life expectancy and compromised ability to produce offspring.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateSep 16, 2020

How a giant short-faced bear reached the California Channel Islands

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma and others report the first occurrence of the extinct giant short-faced bear, Arctodus simus, on the California Channel Islands. The toe bone was found to be from a bear dating back approximately 17,000 years, with chemical fingerprints matching the spectacled bear from South America.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 16, 2020

Native stinging tree toxins match the pain of spiders and scorpions

Researchers at the University of Queensland have found a new family of toxins, gympietides, in the Gympie-Gympie stinging tree that can cause long-lasting pain similar to spider and cone snail venom. The toxins permanently change sodium channels in sensory neurons, suggesting potential for developing new painkillers.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 16, 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.

Temple researchers discover new path to neuron regeneration after spinal cord injury

Researchers at Temple University Health System have identified a new mechanism for promoting neuron regeneration after spinal cord injury, involving the metabolic switch associated with glucose metabolism in glial cells. The study found that upregulating glycolysis in glial cells can stimulate axon growth and improve functional recovery.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalCell Metabolism·DateSep 16, 2020

Medical robotic hand? Rubbery semiconductor makes it possible

Researchers have designed a smart electronic skin and medical robotic hand that can assess vital diagnostic data using a newly invented rubbery semiconductor with high carrier mobility. The material is scalable for manufacturing and retains electrical performance even when stretched by 50%.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 16, 2020
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.

Social distancing and microbial health

A recent perspective highlights the potential consequences of social distancing on the microbiome, suggesting it could worsen dysbiosis and reduce antibiotic resistance. The authors caution that rigorous studies are needed to support these hypotheses.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateSep 16, 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.

NASA sees tropical storm Karina's night moves

Tropical Storm Karina is weakening due to unfavorable upper-level winds and cooler waters, forecast to become a remnant low by tonight. Its maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph with higher gusts, moving toward the northwest at 8 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2020

Adverse pregnancy outcomes, risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women

This observational study found that preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and low birth weight are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The study controlled for traditional risk factors, highlighting the importance of considering pregnancy outcomes in cardiovascular health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateSep 16, 2020

Stop Livin to make lymphoma cells stop living

Lymphoma cells can resist therapy by evading apoptosis due to the presence of the Livin protein. Targeting Livin using inhibitors may be effective in refractory cases. Researchers have identified a promising immunotherapeutic strategy by combining CD40-mediated Fas expression with specific targeting of Livin.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 16, 2020

Scientists studied color change from green to red in the fluorescent protein

Researchers from Skoltech and MSU have deciphered the molecular mechanism of GFP's green-to-red photoconversion, shedding light on its practical implications. The study suggests that understanding this process may hold key to uncovering ancestral proteins' functions and mitigating photobleaching in microscopy.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·DateSep 16, 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.

Controlled dynamics of colloidal rods

Scientists create controlled dynamics of colloidal rods on a magnetised chip using mathematical coding, increasing efficiency in research and potential applications in biomedicine and biotechnology. The study paves the way for mini-laboratories to study materials and biochemical agents.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2020

Scientists look into tropopause to find early signals of persistent strong rainfall

Researchers tracked precursors near the tropopause to predict persistent heavy rainfall in South China, finding anomalies in Arctic and tropical regions. The study revealed a special configuration of synoptic systems that leads to persistent heavy rainfall, providing new insights for regional prediction.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateSep 16, 2020

4TEEN4's first-in-class therapeutic antibody Procizumab restores heart function in life-threatening cardiac depression induced by sepsis

The study data show that Procizumab promptly restored cardiac dysfunction in a preclinical sepsis model by inhibiting the cardiac depressant factor DPP3. The administration of Procizumab improved heart function by increasing cardiac output, stroke volume, and left ventricular shortening fraction.

Source4TEEN4 Pharmaceuticals GmbH·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 16, 2020

Scientists identify gene family key to unlocking vertebrate evolution

Researchers discovered a new gene family critical for forming vertebrate head skeletons and unique traits during embryonic development. The Endothelin signaling pathway allows neural crest cells to proliferate and specialize into different roles throughout the body, making vertebrates distinct from invertebrates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 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.

Reviewing the quantum material 'engine room', QAHE

Researchers reviewed the fundamental theories underpinning the quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE), a key feature of emerging 'quantum' materials. QAHE causes zero-resistance electrical current along material edges and has potential for reducing power consumption in electronic devices.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalSmall·DateSep 16, 2020

NASA imagery reveals Paulette became a strong extratropical cyclone

Paulette's transformation into an extra-tropical storm revealed by NASA imagery, with visible clouds and wind circulation. The system is expected to weaken over the next couple of days, but still poses a threat to Atlantic Canada and the US east coast with life-threatening surf conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 16, 2020

Discoveries made in how immune system detects hidden intruders

Researchers from Texas A&M University have made significant discoveries on how the immune system detects hidden intruders. The study found that T-cells increase their detection power mechanically, using a 'catch bond' between T-cell receptors and MHC molecules when force is applied.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2020

Mapping cavefish brains leads to neural origin of behavioral evolution

A groundbreaking study mapping cavefish brains has identified large-scale differences in brain structure and function between surface fish and cavefish populations. The research reveals how these morphological changes relate to changes in behavior, including sleep loss, reduced social behaviors, and alterations in sensory processing.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 16, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Choosing the right cover crop to protect the soil

A recent study tested various cover crops to determine their effectiveness in protecting soil. While some cover crops had little impact, others showed promise in reducing erosion and nutrient loss. Researchers recommend choosing cover crops that can survive winter, grow well in spring, and hold onto soil for extended periods.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 16, 2020

Researchers have developed the world's smallest ultrasound detector

Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München and TUM developed the world's smallest ultrasound detector, leveraging silicon photonics technology to achieve super-resolution imaging. This innovation enables high-sensitivity detection in smaller sizes than previously possible, opening up new avenues for sensing and imaging applications.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2020

A novel approach to childhood obesity prevention

A novel taxonomic approach is introduced to break down and reaggregate study specifics, enabling a determination of effective obesity intervention strategies. The research was supported by the NIH under contract number GS-00F-0007M.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalChildhood Obesity·DateSep 16, 2020

People's life goals relate to their personality type, UC Davis study suggests

A UC Davis study surveyed over 500 students on life goals related to creativity, career success, family, wealth, and religion. Researchers found that personality traits shape valued goals and that individuals often pursue these goals due to their inherent characteristics.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 16, 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.

Skoltech research puts exciton-polaritons in their place with new artificial laser-built lattices

Researchers at Skoltech have developed a method to synthesize artificial solid-state crystal structures using only laser light, creating arbitrarily shaped and reprogrammable lattices for exciton-polaritons. This allows for the study of dissipative many-body quantum physics in a unique lattice environment.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2020

Eyeglasses and COVID-19

Researchers investigated the association between wearing eyeglasses daily and susceptibility to COVID-19. The observational study found that individuals who used eyeglasses daily had lower rates of infection compared to non-users.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateSep 16, 2020

Machine learning models identify kids at risk of lead poisoning

A new machine learning model accurately identifies children most at risk of lead poisoning, equitably targeting resources to prevent poisonings. The model is about twice as accurate as previous simpler models and considers various factors such as housing, economic status, and sociodemographic data.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 16, 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.

Next-gen organoids grow and function like real tissues

Researchers at EPFL create miniature intestines using stem cells and hydrogel scaffolds, achieving high physiological relevance. The new organoids can regenerate, model inflammatory processes, and host-microbe interactions, opening up exciting perspectives for disease modeling, drug discovery, diagnostics, and regenerative medicine.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2020

How cigarette butts can be recycled into bricks: a step-by-step plan

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a step-by-step plan to recycle cigarette butts into bricks, offering a solution to global littering problems. The plan outlines practical steps for industries to work together to tackle the issue of cigarette butt pollution, which results in toxic waste and energy consumption.

SourceRMIT University·JournalMaterials·DateSep 16, 2020

New gene implicated in neuron diseases

A new study identifies NEMF as a driver of motor neuron diseases, linking defective protein quality control to motor neuron death. The research suggests that dysfunction of ribosomal quality control causes neurodegeneration, providing strong evidence for the link between protein quality control and human disease.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 16, 2020

As pandemic progressed, people's perceived risks went up

As the pandemic progressed, individuals' personal risk assessments led to increased protective behaviors like hand washing and social distancing. The study found that knowing one's own risk affected behavior more than concerns about others.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateSep 16, 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.

Sunfleck use research needs appropriate experimental leaves

A recent study from the University of Guam found that leaves grown under fluctuating light respond better to sunflecks than those grown under homogeneous shade. The research highlights the need for experimental methods to mimic natural light fluctuations in plant physiology.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalPlants·DateSep 16, 2020

From plastic to protein powder

Researchers at Michigan Tech and the University of Illinois are working on a project to convert plastic waste into protein powder and lubricants using chemical and high heat deconstruction. The team aims to develop a system that can break down plastic quickly, producing nutritional supplements and fuel.

SourceMichigan Technological University·DateSep 16, 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.

Pollution exposure linked to stroke risk in people with common heart rhythm disorder

A recent study by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that people with atrial fibrillation have a 1.2-fold higher risk of stroke when exposed to greater levels of pollution. The study, which included neighborhood-specific pollution data, emphasizes the importance of air pollution alerts in advising the ...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 16, 2020

Researchers to study effects of landlord decisions during pandemic

A $60,000 NSF grant allows Iowa State University researchers to investigate landlord decision-making contributing to rental housing instability. The team will conduct surveys and interviews with landlords, property managers, local government officials, and policy stakeholders in Cleveland, Minneapolis, and Lexington.

SourceIowa State University·DateSep 16, 2020

Injectable hydrogel could someday lead to more effective vaccines

Researchers developed a polymer-nanoparticle hydrogel that allows sustained release of vaccine components, increasing potency and duration of immune responses in mice. The hydrogel boosts antibody production with a 1,000-fold higher affinity for antigens.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 16, 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.

Choosing the right cover crop to protect the soil

Researchers tested various cover crops to protect soil in Midwestern states like Illinois. While some cover crops showed promise, most failed to improve soil properties due to harsh winters and limited survival rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateSep 16, 2020

Anti-reflective coating inspired by fly eyes

A team from UNIGE has successfully replicated a nanoscale coating on different surfaces, mimicking the natural anti-reflective and anti-adhesive properties of fly eyes. The coating consists of two ingredients: retinin and corneal wax, which work together to generate a regular network of protuberances.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateSep 16, 2020