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Science News Archive September 2020 - Page 28


Page 28 of 49

PTSD may double risk of dementia

A new meta-analysis of global evidence found that people with PTSD are up to twice as likely to develop dementia later in life. The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million people and found a significant association between PTSD and increased dementia risk, which may be related to hypervigilance and social withdrawal.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2020

Chimpanzees show greater behavioural and cultural diversity in more variable environments

Chimpanzees exhibit diverse behaviours across various contexts, including tool use, foraging on insects and honey, and thermoregulatory habits. Environmental variability is positively associated with behavioural and cultural diversity, suggesting that species adapt to uncertainty through mechanisms like innovation and cognitive capacity.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 15, 2020

Biologic therapy for psoriasis may reduce heart disease

A recent study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging Journal found that biologic therapy for psoriasis can significantly reduce high-risk plaque in heart arteries over a one-year period. The treatment was associated with an 8% reduction in coronary plaque, similar to the benefits of statin therapy.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 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.

NASA sees Tropical Depression Rene dissipating

NASA's Aqua satellite captured a visible image of Tropical Depression Rene as it was dissipating in the central North Atlantic Ocean. The storm opened into a trough of low pressure and dissipated over several hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 15, 2020

Fish, seaweed inspire slippery surfaces for ships

A team of researchers from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and Pohang University of Science and Technology developed a lubricant-infused slip surface to reduce friction in ships. They found that larger open areas lead to a more slippery surface, while lid thickness has little effect on slip.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 15, 2020

Study suggests financial holdings influenced key votes for house lawmakers

A recent study found strong associations between financial holdings of legislators and their votes on key financial legislation, suggesting that many lawmakers voted in ways that benefited their personal finances. Researchers analyzed data from five key pieces of economic legislation between 1999 and 2008, finding that legislators larg...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalLegislative Studies Quarterly·DateSep 15, 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.

Phosphine on Venus

An international team of astronomers detected phosphine in Venus' atmosphere, which could be evidence of biological origin, but unknown photochemistry or geochemistry are also possible explanations.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 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.

Personal protective respirator masks (PPE) often do not fit correctly, especially for women and Asian healthcare workers

A review of personal protective respirator mask use reveals that initial fit-pass rates are lower among females and Asians compared to males and Caucasians. Correct respirator fit appears more important than filtration capacity for airborne protection. Fit-testing is recommended, with annual testing suggested due to its cost-effectiven...

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateSep 15, 2020

Energy harvesting goes organic, gets more flexible

Scientists have developed peptide-based nanotubes that can be used to create efficient energy harvesting systems. By controlling the alignment of the tubes and incorporating graphene oxide, they improved conductivity and increased current output.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 15, 2020

Reforestation can only partially restore tropical soils

A study by University of Göttingen researchers reveals that reforestation can only partially restore degraded tropical soil properties. The team analyzed data from 130 studies and found that soil degradation persists even decades after deforestation, with deeper soil layers losing significant amounts of carbon.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateSep 15, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Single photons from a silicon chip

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have designed a silicon-based light source to generate single photons, a crucial component for quantum cryptography and communication. The prototype can produce 100,000 single photons per second and is stable even after several days of continuous operation.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalOptics Express·DateSep 15, 2020

Aiming for accuracy

Researchers say AI and machine learning can help improve the peer review process by detecting discrepancies in research papers. With many COVID-19 studies published without thorough review, AI-powered tools may be able to analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns that human reviewers might miss.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 15, 2020

Future autonomous machines may build trust through emotion

Researchers at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory found that emotion expressions can shape cooperation in autonomous systems. They suggest guidelines for designing machines that promote cooperation with soldiers by using a combination of action and emotion displays.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 15, 2020

Signalling research waves red flag for commercial drug target candidate

Researchers at Babraham Institute used cellular signalling knowledge to discover ERK5 protein's binding location affects inhibitors, potentially leading to unwanted cell growth. This finding prevents wasted resource in commercial pharmaceutical companies' drug discovery efforts.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalBiochemical Society Transactions·DateSep 15, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that active surveillance and surge testing can prevent COVID-19 spread in homeless shelters. Guidelines developers face challenges due to poorly designed studies, but solutions are proposed through the COVID-NMA Project, which aims to improve evidence synthesis and guideline development.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 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.

The Wnt pathway gets even more complicated

Researchers found that Casein Kinase-1 regulates the Wnt signaling pathway at the plasma membrane, triggering the activation of RNF43. This new understanding could lead to a novel approach for reining the Wnt pathway in cancer cells, potentially reviving the tumor suppressor function of RNF43.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 15, 2020

September/October 2020 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

A study found that rural counties with obstetrical care have better infant birth outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer underweight babies. Telehealth can also support collaborative mental health care in rural clinics, enabling primary care physicians to work proficiently with patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 15, 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.

Michael Mann receives World Sustainability Award

Michael E. Mann, a leading climate researcher, has received the 2020 World Sustainability Award for his groundbreaking work on climate change and sustainability. He is recognized for his contributions to understanding human impact on climate change and advancing climate modeling and statistical methods.

SourcePenn State·DateSep 15, 2020

A new approach to understanding the biology of wound healing

Researchers developed a non-invasive method to sample cells from wounds using discarded bandages, revealing higher levels of neutrophils in chronic wounds. This technique could help develop targeted therapies to promote healing and predict wound outcomes.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 15, 2020

Hopelessness in heart patients study to factor in COVID-19

A University of Illinois Chicago study explores the effects of COVID-19 shelter-in-place and physical distancing measures on heart disease patients' hopelessness and physical activity. Researchers will evaluate the 'Heart Up!' intervention's impact on health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 15, 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.

NASA satellite imagery shows Teddy consolidating

Teddy is consolidating in the Central North Atlantic Ocean with improved circulation and increasing maximum sustained winds. The storm's structure is slowly improving, with stronger thunderstorms around its core.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 15, 2020

New on/off functionality for fast, sensitive, ultra-small technologies

A research team at Osaka University developed an ultra-small actuator with unparalleled sensitivity, fast on/off response, and nanometer-scale precision. The actuator uses a phase transition in vanadium oxide crystals to achieve high accuracy and speed, revolutionizing micro-robotics and advanced technologies.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 15, 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.

Exercise protocol mitigates one of the most incapacitating symptoms of Parkinson's disease

Researchers developed a complex physical exercise protocol to stimulate different motor and cognitive skills simultaneously, restoring brain regions associated with freezing of gait in advanced-stage Parkinson's disease patients. The protocol reduced symptoms by 60% and improved brain plasticity, providing new hope for treatment.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMovement Disorders·DateSep 15, 2020

Human white blood cells use molecular paddles to swim

Researchers have discovered that human white blood cells use a new mechanism called molecular paddling to swim and migrate through fluids without changing shape. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms of cell migration, which could impact our understanding of immune responses and cancer research.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateSep 15, 2020

Researchers to study extreme weather in the Northeast

UMass Lowell researchers are studying the relationship between heat waves and droughts in the Northeast, using moisture-tracking techniques and computer-aided modeling. The team hopes to better understand how well they can predict these extreme weather events and their potential impact on climate change.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateSep 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.

Schöninger spears - mankind's earliest wooden weapons

The University of Göttingen and the Lower Saxony State Service for Cultural Heritage are conducting a research project to analyze the oldest wooden objects from the Schöningen site. The spears, dated at 300,000 years old, provide valuable insights into the technical and intellectual abilities of early European hominins.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·DateSep 15, 2020

Researchers identify key role of immune cells in brain infection

A new study details the damaging role of the immune system in a severe brain condition caused by herpes simplex virus. Researchers have identified specific immune cells and a signalling protein that induce brain inflammation, paving the way for targeted treatments.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 15, 2020

Loneliness predicts development of type 2 diabetes

A study published in Diabetologia found that loneliness predicts the development of type 2 diabetes, even after accounting for other factors. The researchers analyzed data from over 4,100 adults and discovered that individuals experiencing chronic loneliness were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes over a period of 12 years.

SourceKing's College London·JournalDiabetologia·DateSep 15, 2020

OBS deep seismic survey uncovered crustal structure mystery of NW sub-basin of the SCS

A recent study used OBS data to clarify the formation mechanism of the Double-peak seamount in the Northwest Sub-basin (NWSB) of the South China Sea (SCS). The survey revealed a high velocity layer at the bottom of the crust, indicating possible in-situ mantle serpentinization or lower crust magma underplating. The study enriches the d...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateSep 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.

Protecting genomic privacy

A Case Western Reserve University researcher is working to enhance genomic privacy protections using a $1.2 million NIH grant. He plans to identify weaknesses in the genomic data sharing network and develop more complex algorithms to protect against potential threats.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateSep 15, 2020

Vaping, marijuana use in 2019 rose in college-age adults

The percentage of college students who said they vaped marijuana in the past 30 days increased from 5.2% in 2017 to 14% in 2019, while those who used nicotine rose from 6.1% in 2017 to 22% in 2019. Daily or near-daily use of marijuana also increased among non-college attendees.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·DateSep 15, 2020

Researchers use soy to improve bone cancer treatment

WSU researchers have developed a new approach using soy-based compounds to reduce bone cancer cell viability and promote healthy bone cell growth. The slow release of these compounds from 3D-printed scaffolds showed promise in reducing inflammation and improving overall recovery.

SourceWashington State University·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateSep 15, 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.

UIC researcher to test voice-activated AI to manage mental health symptoms

A novel approach is being tested to deliver care to those with moderate depression and anxiety using artificial intelligence. Researchers at UIC are developing a voice-enabled, AI virtual agent named Lumen to deliver Problem Solving Therapy (PST) to patients with moderate, untreated depressive and/or anxiety symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 15, 2020

Online tool informs recovery prospects for sepsis survivors

A new online tool assesses risk factors for sepsis survivors to inform follow-up care pathways. The tool uses data from 120,000 patients and identifies eight key factors contributing to rehospitalization or death after discharge.

SourceNational Institute for Health Research·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 15, 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.

Mount Sinai study shows widespread epigenetic defects in the human genome

Researchers identified thousands of rare epigenetic variations in the human genome, linked to abnormal gene expression and Mendelian diseases. The study highlights the significance of epivariations in contributing to a fraction of genetic diseases, including hereditary cancers.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateSep 15, 2020

Molecular basis underlying colorectal cancer revealed

A team of scientists has unraveled the molecular basis underlying colorectal cancer by discovering how mutations in RNF43 activate the Wnt signaling pathway. This finding provides potential treatment options for certain types of colorectal cancer.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 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.

People react better to both negative and positive events with more sleep

A new study from the University of British Columbia found that people who get less sleep than usual react more emotionally to stressful events, while those who get longer sleep have better responses to positive experiences. This has important health implications, as chronic stress can lead to inflammation and premature death.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalHealth Psychology·DateSep 15, 2020