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Science News Archive September 2020 - Page 29


Page 29 of 49
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Lessons from coronavirus surveillance testing in Seattle-area homeless shelters

A study of Seattle-area homeless shelters found a need to provide routine viral testing outside clinical settings to identify new cases and prevent spread. The results suggest that crowded conditions, communal sleeping, and shared hygiene facilities can foster transmission of SARS-CoV-2.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 15, 2020

Fish oil without the fishy smell or taste

A new refining process developed by University of Cincinnati researchers enriches the omega-3 fatty acid content of apple juice without changing its taste. This technique uses a vortex fluidic device to minimize oxidation and improve shelf life, resulting in higher-quality fish oil supplements.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·Journalnpj Science of Food·DateSep 15, 2020

Progress toward antiviral treatments for COVID-19

Researchers identify a key viral protein with potential drug targets, revealing unique protonation mechanisms that could lead to broad-spectrum antiviral treatments. Small shifts in pH may alter the enzyme's shape, allowing for more effective treatment options against COVID-19 and other coronavirus diseases.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·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.

Newly discovered mechanism regulates myocardial distensibility

A team of researchers at the University of Münster has discovered a new mechanism that regulates myocardial distensibility, which is the elasticity of the heart muscle. This mechanism, called UnDOx, is triggered by oxidative stress and changes the stiffness of the cardiac walls.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2020

UIC to study how adolescent binge drinking impacts adult behavior

The University of Illinois Chicago is leading a consortium to investigate how adolescent binge drinking affects genes, brain circuitry, and behaviors through epigenetics. The five-year project aims to identify neurobiological changes resulting from early binge drinking and its impact on adult psychopathology such as anxiety and addiction.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 15, 2020

Popular messenger services are extremely insecure

Researchers discovered that popular messengers like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram allow for large-scale abuse of contact discovery services, exposing sensitive user data. Attackers can build accurate behavior models by querying random phone numbers, enabling them to track users across social networks and public data sources.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·DateSep 15, 2020

Scientists uncover a novel approach to treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers have found a way to restore muscle regeneration and prevent scarring in Duchenne muscular dystrophy by correcting the content of extracellular vesicles. This novel approach uses pharmacologically corrected vesicles to deliver HDAC inhibitors directly to muscles, overcoming systemic adverse effects.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalEMBO Reports·DateSep 15, 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.

Robots to help children touch the outside world

A UC team is creating telepresence robots equipped with robotic arms to enable children with disabilities to interact with their classmates, teachers, and communities. The project aims to reduce social isolation and promote learning and development in high-risk children.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 15, 2020

Risk gene for Alzheimer's has early effects on the brain

A study of 82 young adults with varying ApoE gene variants found no differences in memory performance, but distinct brain activity patterns, suggesting potential early disease processes. The researchers used functional MRI to examine the impact on the hippocampus, an area crucial for memory.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCurrent Biology·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.

Improved physician-patient relationships are associated with improved health

Research at Case Western Reserve University reveals a strong association between high-quality physician-patient relationships and improved patient-reported health status. Adults with multiple diagnosed conditions often experience lower quality relationships, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 15, 2020

Rising temperatures could shift US West Nile virus transmission

A new study published in eLife suggests that rising temperatures may shift the optimal temperature range for West Nile virus transmission in the US. The research found that moderate temperatures are most conducive to viral spread, and extreme temperatures limit transmission in certain areas.

SourceeLife·DateSep 15, 2020

Reward and punishment take similar paths in the mouse brain

Researchers found neurons in the striosome contribute to both positive reinforcement learning and negative-reinforcement learning, highlighting the complex motivation-processing hub in this brain region. Understanding its function is critical for developing better treatments for mental illnesses such as depression and addiction.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell·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.

TV ads for psoriasis and eczema medications portray few people of color

Research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that TV ads for psoriasis and eczema medications lack diversity, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities. This underrepresentation may contribute to treatment disparities, as non-white patients are less likely to receive effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCutis·DateSep 15, 2020

Study offers real world perspective on how Black patients experience mental healthcare

A novel study explores how Black patients with mental health concerns evaluate verbal and non-verbal communication during treatment, revealing significant fear of being negatively judged based on stereotypes. The research provides suggestions for creating environments that foster person-centered care and reducing provider burnout.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateSep 15, 2020

Study: Synthetic medication and desiccated thyroid equally effective to treat hypothyroidism

A study by Kaiser Permanente found no difference in TSH stability between patients taking desiccated thyroid products and those on synthetic levothyroxine, a surprising outcome given concerns about variability among batches of desiccated thyroid. This result has implications for patient-centered approach to managing hypothyroidism.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 15, 2020

Modern theory from ancient impacts

New study from University of Tokyo researchers calls into doubt a long-held theory about the early solar system. They found evidence that asteroid Vesta was hit by multiple impacting bodies around 4.4 billion to 4.15 billion years ago, earlier than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateSep 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.

Dust may have controlled ancient human civilization

A new study reveals that dust played a critical role in forming thick soils in the Levant region, enabling early human civilization to take root. The discovery challenges existing hypotheses on soil formation, suggesting that dust input was more important than erosion rates.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateSep 15, 2020

Did our early ancestors boil their food in hot springs?

Researchers at MIT and the University of Alcalá in Spain discovered evidence of hot springs near early human archaeological sites in Olduvai Gorge. The proximity of these hydrothermal features raises the possibility that early humans could have used hot springs as a cooking resource, boiling fresh kills before controlling fire.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2020

Metabolic surgery offers health benefits for patients with high blood pressure

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that metabolic surgery reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and death for individuals with hypertension and a BMI over 35kg/m2. The surgery was shown to be effective in treating hypertension, suggesting it as an option for patients with obesity and high blood pressure.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 15, 2020

Expenditures for primary care may affect how primary care is delivered

Out-of-pocket and total visit expenditures for primary care physicians have shifted towards private insurance and Medicare, impacting access. The study suggests that continued trends may lead to increased difficulty in accessing primary care services, particularly for Medicaid patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 15, 2020

The public charge rule: What physicians can do to support immigrant health

The US Supreme Court's decision allowed proposed changes to take effect, leading to reluctance among immigrants and their families to apply for benefits. Family physicians can provide outreach education, access to primary care, and referrals to legal services to address concerns and support immigrant health.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·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.

New dopamine sensors could help unlock the mysteries of brain chemistry

Researchers have developed two new spectral variants of dLight1 sensor, allowing for the simultaneous assessment of dopamine and other neurochemical release. These sensors provide high resolution, real-time imaging of the spatial and temporal release of dopamine in live animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 15, 2020

Scientists awarded $52 million NIH grant to study schizophrenia cause and effect

The research will develop biomarkers and clinical assessments to improve treatment outcomes for adolescents and young adults at risk of schizophrenia. The five-year study will recruit 1,040 patients with Clinical High Risk (CHR) and healthy controls, using data-driven methods to predict individual clinical trajectories.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·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.

Europe's primary forests: What to protect? What to restore?

Primary forests in Europe are scarce and irreplaceable, requiring top priority protection. Restoration is a viable option where no primary forests remain, storing carbon and benefiting biodiversity. An expansion of protected areas by just 1% can suffice to safeguard most remaining primary forests.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateSep 15, 2020

Rare pattern observed in migrating common swifts

The study reveals a unique chain migration pattern in common swifts, where populations from southern Europe arrive in Africa before those from northern Europe, driven by food availability. This adaptation allows the species to ensure continuous access to energy-rich insects, enabling them to survive for over 20 years.

SourceLund University·JournalEvolution·DateSep 15, 2020

Scientists develop a technique to dynamically curve a photon jet

Researchers have discovered a simple method for creating a curved photonic beam using a microparticle, which can be used for various applications such as microscopy and lithography. This breakthrough enables the creation of more flexible and versatile photonics devices.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 15, 2020

Hitchhiking seeds pose substantial risk of nonnative plant invasions

A recent study found that nonnative plant invasions can occur through hitchhiking seeds on shipping containers, with potential risks to agriculture and native ecosystems. The researchers propose strategies such as liquid pre-emergent herbicide application and inspection for exterior seeds to reduce risk of invasion.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 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.

Curtin research creates faster, on-site way to detect PFAS

A new on-site detection method for PFAS, developed by Curtin University researchers, allows for immediate and accurate measurement of levels. This method could aid in the removal of persistent environmental pollutants from contaminated lands and waters around the world.

SourceCurtin University·DateSep 14, 2020

Study examines how civil wars affect wildlife populations

A new study reveals that civil wars have a negative impact on native mammal populations, with increased access to automatic weapons and suspension of anti-poaching patrols leading to population collapse. The authors warn that restoring depleted wildlife populations may take many decades and require active intervention efforts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 14, 2020

New treatments for deadly lung disease could be revealed by 3D modeling

Researchers developed a 3D bioengineered model of lung tissue that showed drugs effective in Petri dish tests did not work in patients, highlighting the need to target other aspects of pulmonary fibrosis. The study used tissue engineering and mechanical cues to understand how fibroblasts drive disease progression.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 14, 2020

CCNY engineer Xi Chen and partners create new shape-changing crystals

Researchers led by CCNY engineer Xi Chen create supramolecular crystals that change shape in response to evaporation, enabling direct observation of water-material interactions at the molecular level. The new crystals have potential applications in energy harvesting, actuators, and artificial muscles.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 14, 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.

Antarctic ice shelf damage and instability

Researchers document rapid acceleration and thinning of Pine Island and Thwaites Glaciers in Antarctica. The growth of damage areas on the ice shelves compromises integrity and drives further disintegration, highlighting the importance of incorporating damage processes into ice sheet models.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Hostility linked with higher risk of death after second heart attacks

A recent study published in the European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing found that heart attack patients who exhibit hostile behavior are at a higher risk of dying from a second heart attack. The study, which included over 2,300 heart attack survivors, suggests that improving hostile behaviors could be a positive move for patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing·DateSep 14, 2020

City-dwelling mosquito and malaria risk in Africa

A study suggests that urban mosquito species Anopheles stephensi could spread to dozens of cities across Africa, putting millions at higher risk of contracting malaria. The authors used location data and spatial models to predict the spread of this Asian mosquito species in Africa, identifying 44 highly suitable locations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Easing restrictions on abortion pill greatly improved access to care in Canada

A University of British Columbia-led study found that removing restrictions on mifepristone in Canada greatly improved access to abortion care, particularly in rural communities. The research also highlighted the importance of flexible regulations to reduce confusion among healthcare providers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 14, 2020

Innovative approaches to stabilizing bridges, highway slopes

Researchers are exploring the use of recycled plastic pins to repair deep-seated failures on embankments and areas around highway bridges. The pins provide stabilization and reduce costs by more than 50%, while also testing the feasibility of using just a moisture barrier for slope stabilization.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 14, 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.

Project Phoenix: DNA unlocks a new understanding of coral

Researchers have developed a new genetic tool to classify corals, challenging over 200 years of traditional classification. The study reveals new insights into coral evolution and identification, providing crucial knowledge for conservation efforts and proposal assessment.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateSep 14, 2020

New insight into how muscles and fat cells work together to make you more fit

Researchers found that short-term exercise increases DICER levels in fat cells, enabling muscles to adapt and release fatty acids for energy. This signaling axis between muscle and fat tissue is central to the adaptive response to exercise training.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Predicting the slow death of lithium-ion batteries

A new algorithm developed by Stanford University scientists can accurately predict the remaining storage capacity and charge level of lithium-ion batteries in real-time. This innovation has the potential to enable smaller battery packs and greater driving ranges in electric vehicles, reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceStanford University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Control Systems Technology·DateSep 14, 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.

Smartphones can predict brain function associated with anxiety and depression

A study from Dartmouth College found that passive monitoring of phone usage can mirror activity in the brain linked to traits such as anxiety, with predictions matching fMRI scans at 80% accuracy. Phone data analysis also supported long-term emotional traits and helped eliminate subjectivity in other information-gathering techniques.

SourceDartmouth College·DateSep 14, 2020

Combining two precision medicines can treat drug-resistant cancers

Researchers found a combination of olaparib and capivasertib to be effective against advanced cancers, including those that stopped responding to chemotherapy. The treatment targets two weaknesses in cancer, DNA repair and AKT addiction, offering new hope for patients with drug-resistant cancer.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateSep 14, 2020

COVID-19 measures deepening health inequalities in slum communities

Measures to control COVID-19 are creating a 'perfect storm' of factors that harm health in slum communities, where crowded conditions and poor sanitation make social distancing challenging. Adopting mobile consulting and upskilling local providers could provide access to healthcare services for residents.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateSep 14, 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.

Women's authorship, open science, and reproducibility

Researchers analyzed nearly 3,000 articles between 2010-2017, finding women's participation grew in high-status positions within open science literature, but declined in reproducibility literature. Open science literature adopted communal and collaborative approaches, improving science.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Temperature and mammal lactation

A study on mice and hamsters reveals that high temperatures during lactation lead to decreased pup growth and increased mortality in hamsters. Temperature extremes have a critical effect on rodent parenting success, particularly during late lactation.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2020

Embryos taking shape via buckling

Researchers from UNIGE have successfully demonstrated that cellular tissues deform through buckling, a phenomenon that could be crucial for understanding embryo development. By recreating the process in vitro and analyzing the mechanical properties of artificial embryos, the team provided quantitative proof of the hypothesis.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 14, 2020