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Science News Archive September 2020 - Page 45


Page 45 of 49

Study examines the benefits of virtual stroke rehabilitation programs

A recent review paper examines six clinical trials of virtual stroke rehabilitation programs, finding them effective in aiding recovery. The study also highlights the importance of therapist training and social interaction for patient satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·DateSep 2, 2020

Teens who think their parents are loving are less likely to be cyberbullies

A new NYU study found that adolescents who perceive their parents as loving and supportive are less likely to engage in cyberbullying. The study analyzed responses from over 12,000 US teens and found that emotional support from parents is a significant factor in preventing cyberbullying behavior.

SourceNew York University·JournalInternational Journal of Bullying Prevention·DateSep 2, 2020

Gravity wave insights from internet-beaming balloons

Researchers used Loon LLC's data from high-flying balloons to calculate gravity wave motions, finding larger waves in the tropics during summer and smaller waves near the poles during winter. The study's findings help constrain circulation responses to climate change and improve regional weather forecasts.

SourceStanford University·DateSep 2, 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.

Gamifying interventions may improve mental health

A new randomized control trial found that gamifying mobile mental health intervention content improved resilience and reduced attrition. The study showed significant benefits in both resilience and anxiety measurements after five weeks, with the game group retaining 21% more participants than other groups.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 2, 2020

Has Earth's oxygen rusted the Moon for billions of years?

Researchers found high concentrations of hematite at lunar high latitudes, strongly correlated with water content. The presence of hematite suggests that Earth's atmospheric oxygen may have oxidized the mineral over billions of years.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 2, 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.

Cancer's ongoing evolution

Researchers found widespread imbalances in chromosomal gains and losses between cells taken from different parts of tumors, indicating ongoing evolution and selection for preferred traits. This high-level variation was observed across all tumor types analyzed, with some regions showing mirrored subclonal allele imbalance.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2020

Zooming in on dark matter

A recent study published in Nature has zoomed in on dark matter haloes of varying masses, revealing a surprising similarity in their internal structure. The research team used supercomputers to simulate the evolution of the universe and found that even small haloes have dense centers and spread-out outer regions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2020

Why naming neurons can help cure brain disease

A unified classification of diverse cell types in the cerebral cortex has been proposed by a Columbia-led team, which could shed light on how our brains work and potentially lead to treatments for diseases. The new system uses single-cell RNA sequencing and can be updated regularly using algorithms.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 2, 2020

Pharma aims to make a better CBD

Researchers are developing CBD-based treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis. Pharmaceutical companies are also working to enhance the potency of CBD by creating more potent derivatives that can be absorbed by the body.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 2, 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.

How your BMI might affect your spontaneous food purchases

A small study using mobile eye-tracking technology found that normal-weight consumers noticed and looked at their chosen food earlier and longer than those with overweight or obesity. The researchers also discovered a tendency for all consumers to focus on lower-energy-density foods like fruits and vegetables more often.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateSep 2, 2020

Anthropologist receives NSF funding to explore new fossil site in Kenya

The Natodomeri fossil site in northwest Kenya is yielding a complete skull and partial skeleton of an early modern human, as well as extensive archeological material. The site's discovery provides a unique opportunity to compare early humans from the same time period but existing in different places.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateSep 2, 2020

Subtypes and developmental pathways of innate T cells identified

Researchers have discovered that innate T cells, responsible for biodefense, share the same developmental pathway despite having distinct functions. This finding has significant implications for immunotherapy using MAIT and gamma-delta T cells to treat various diseases.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 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.

COVID has likely tripled depression rate: BU study

A new study from Boston University School of Public Health found that 27.8% of US adults experienced depression symptoms in mid-April, compared to 8.5% before the pandemic. Income and savings were the most significant predictors of depression symptoms during COVID-19.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 2, 2020

NASA finds new Tropical Storm Nana strengthening in the Caribbean

Tropical Storm Nana has strengthened in the Caribbean Sea, with NASA's Terra satellite analyzing cloud top temperatures to monitor its progress. The storm is expected to become a hurricane by tonight, posing warnings and watches for areas in Central America and Belize.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 2, 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.

Researchers identify five types of cat owner

Researchers found distinct categories of UK cat owners, including 'conscientious caretakers' and 'freedom defenders', with differing views on cat welfare and wildlife conservation. The study aims to find a win-win solution for managing cats that benefit both pets and the environment.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 2, 2020

Regional variations in freshwater overconsumption

Researchers estimated global freshwater supply and demand in 11,000 watersheds, finding that 24% of total consumption exceeds regional capacities. Luxury use accounts for a significant portion of overconsumption, often at the expense of ecosystems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 2, 2020

UIC to increase doctor training to treat substance use, mental health

The University of Illinois Chicago has received a $2.5 million grant to improve the training of primary care physicians to treat substance use and mental health conditions in rural and urban underserved populations. The program will incorporate an interprofessional approach, enabling doctors to provide holistic care and address complex...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 2, 2020

A 'bang' in LIGO and Virgo detectors signals most massive gravitational-wave source yet

Researchers have detected a signal from the most massive black hole merger observed in gravitational waves, producing an 'intermediate-mass' black hole with a mass of up to 1,000 solar masses. The merger released energy equivalent to eight suns and has raised questions about the formation of such massive black holes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 2, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Using magnetic resonance elastography to detect epilepsy

Researchers used magnetic resonance elastography to detect changes in the hippocampus of patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, which is resistant to medication. The study found that MRE can improve early detection and characterization of the disease.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·DateSep 2, 2020

Common sunscreen ingredients prove dangerous for freshwater ecosystems

Research by University of Alberta biologists reveals that common sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, are detrimental to freshwater-dwelling crustaceans like the water flea Daphnia magna. Long-term exposure can be lethal, even at short distances from popular beach areas.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 2, 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.

Guilt by dissociation: Study sheds light on serotonin in autism

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have made significant progress in understanding the role of serotonin in autism. The study found that a specific mutation in the serotonin transporter protein can lead to altered serotonin levels and behavior changes, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of autism. Further work is neede...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateSep 2, 2020

New method of detecting illnesses including coronavirus and cystic fibrosis

Researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a new system to detect diseases, including coronavirus and cystic fibrosis, by examining individual molecules in blood. The method can compile a detectable signal from just a few biomarkers in just a few minutes, potentially speeding up testing and providing accurate results.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 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.

A molecular approach to quantum computing

Researchers at Caltech demonstrate a molecular approach to quantum computing that leads to fewer errors, using molecules instead of atoms. The method involves rotating molecules in superposition, allowing for simultaneous correction of orientation and angular momentum shifts, which are prone to causing errors.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·DateSep 2, 2020

Familial incarceration negatively impacts mental health for African American women

Research reveals familial incarceration has a significant impact on mental health for African American women, leading to elevated psychological distress and depressive symptomology. Employment and social roles can alleviate the burden, contrary to previous studies that only examined parents or children of incarcerated individuals.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateSep 2, 2020

NASA catches formation of Atlantic's record-breaking 15th tropical storm

Tropical Storm Omar formed on Sept. 1 off the coast of North Carolina, becoming the earliest 15th storm on record. NASA's satellite data revealed wind shear affecting the storm, causing it to strengthen and potentially generate heavy rainfall. The storm is now expected to weaken and become a remnant low-pressure area by Thursday, Sept. 3.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 2, 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.

Virus in the blood can predict severe COVID-19

A blood test detecting SARS-CoV-2 presence in patients with confirmed COVID-19 can predict severe cases, highlighting the importance of early treatment and monitoring. Admitted patients without detectable virus have a low risk of severe symptoms.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 2, 2020

Trial to test nasal irrigations as COVID-19 treatment

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center are conducting a clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of nasal saline irrigations in reducing COVID-19 symptoms and transmissibility. The study aims to explore if nasal hygiene can be used as an affordable and accessible treatment option.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateSep 2, 2020

Bilingual children may lose less brain matter as they grow up

A new study found that bilingual children and adolescents had less shrinkage in grey matter compared to monolingual peers during brain development. This suggests that bilingualism may have long-term cognitive benefits. The study also revealed increased white matter, indicating more efficient brain communication.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalBrain Structure and Function·DateSep 2, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

The widespread footprint of blue jean microfibers

Researchers detect indigo denim microfibers in wastewater effluent and lakes, with levels estimated at 1 billion per day. Washing jeans less frequently could reduce pollution, but effects on aquatic life are unknown.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 2, 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.

How do tumor cells divide in the crowd?

Researchers found that EMT promotes successful rounding and cell division in tumor cells, making them stiffer while surrounding non-dividing cells become softer. The study suggests a new direction for understanding how EMT influences cancer cell behavior.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 2, 2020

Insights into behavior during chimney tops 2 fire could improve evacuation planning

Research at National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) found that people's sense of danger lowers when exposed to smoke, leading to a false sense of security. The most critical factor for evacuation decisions is perceived risk, with increasing perceptions leading to increased likelihood of evacuation.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalInternational Journal of Wildland Fire·DateSep 2, 2020

New connections reveal how cancer evades the immune system

A new study found that tumor cells outcompete T cells for the amino acid methionine, impairing its function. Supplementing methionine can restore T cell function, suggesting a potential target for immunotherapy against more cancers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2020

Using tattoo ink to find cancer

Using tattoo ink and food dyes, researchers have developed new imaging contrast agents that can illuminate cancers, allowing for better differentiation between cancer cells and normal adjacent cells. This breakthrough aims to improve early cancer detection and localization.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalBiomaterials Science·DateSep 2, 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.

NASA analyzes typhoon Haishen's water vapor concentration

Typhoon Haishen strengthened rapidly after forming as Tropical Depression 11W on August 31. NASA's Terra satellite gathered data on the storm's water vapor content and temperature, revealing high concentrations of water vapor and cold cloud top temperatures.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 2, 2020

Overlap between immunology of COVID-19 and obesity could explain the increased risk of death in people living with obesity, and also older patients

Research suggests that the immunological disturbances found in COVID-19 and obesity overlap, contributing to increased disease severity and mortality. Fat cells accumulate fat and become larger during weight gain, resulting in chronic low-grade inflammation in obesity.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·JournalObesity Facts·DateSep 2, 2020

Kidney problems as a young adult may affect thinking skills in midlife

A study found that individuals with declining kidney function starting at age 30 performed like those nine years older on certain cognitive tests 20 years later. This suggests that preserving kidney function in young adulthood may be crucial for maintaining thinking skills in midlife.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 2, 2020

Editors' Choice in Science: an unusual superconductor

Researchers at Peking University discovered a new type of superconductor that remains stable in ambient conditions, exhibiting large critical magnetic fields and strong spin-orbit coupling. This macro-size system with out-of-plane spin polarization has great potential for superconducting electronic and spintronic applications.

SourcePeking University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 2, 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.

Many forests scorched by wildfire won't bounce back

A new study projects that post-fire recovery will be less likely in the future, with large percentages of Southern Rocky Mountains becoming unsuitable for key tree species. The team's database can help land managers better plan where to invest resources after a fire.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateSep 2, 2020

In a mite-y bit of trouble

The extinction of mites, crucial to ecosystems worldwide, is occurring at an alarming rate, threatening environmental health and species survival. Human activities such as habitat destruction and climate change exacerbate the issue.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalAustral Ecology·DateSep 2, 2020