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Science News Archive September 2020 - Page 5


Page 5 of 49

Marine biodiversity reshuffles under warmer and sea ice-free Pacific Arctic

Research by Hokkaido University scientists finds that warming waters and sea ice-free conditions in the Pacific Arctic will lead to significant changes in marine community compositions. Larger fish and invertebrates are expected to expand their ranges towards the pole, altering ecosystem structure and functions.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 29, 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.

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.

Researchers create artificial lung to support pre-term babies in distress

A portable device has been created to mimic the placenta's oxygenation role for pre-term newborns in respiratory distress. The artificial lung uses a fine membrane to release carbon dioxide and uptake oxygen while protecting blood from infection, improving survival rates and reducing brain damage.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 29, 2020

Microcomb-injected pulsed lasers as variable microwave gears

Researchers developed a novel method to generate variable low-noise microwaves using an optical microresonator frequency comb and a compact laser. The approach allows for significant frequency tunability and improved phase-noise levels compared to traditional methods.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 29, 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.

INRS researchers develop a new membraneless fuel cell

The new membraneless fuel cell, developed by INRS researchers, powers an LED for four hours using only 234 microlitres of methanol. The device uses selective electrodes to minimize crossover and can be optimized to use ethanol, a greener fuel.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateSep 29, 2020

Volcanic ash could help reduce CO2 associated with climate change

Researchers found that spreading volcanic ash from a ship to an area of ocean floor could sequester up to 2300 tonnes of CO2, significantly cheaper than other methods. The technique is less invasive and doesn't require expensive technology or land repurposing.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAnthropocene·DateSep 29, 2020

Nasal calcium rich salts show reduction of exhaled aerosol particles up to 99%

Researchers discovered that nasal administration of physiological salts can effectively eliminate airborne particles from airways, reducing exhaled aerosol particles by up to 99%. The study showed significant reductions in sub-micron aerosol particles, suggesting a potential addition to Covid-19 hygiene protocols.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalMolecular Frontiers Journal·DateSep 29, 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.

Validating the physics behind the new MIT-designed fusion experiment

The SPARC project has published seven research papers outlining the physics behind the ambitious reactor design, with calculations suggesting a Q ratio of 10 or more. The device aims to achieve a 'burning plasma,' a self-sustaining fusion reaction, which is crucial for developing practical power-generating plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Plasma Physics·DateSep 29, 2020

Driving behavior less 'robotic' thanks to new Delft model

Researchers developed a new model that describes driving behavior based on a 'human' principle: managing risk below a threshold level. The model can accurately predict human behavior in various driving tasks and may be used in intelligent cars to reduce their 'robotic' feel.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 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.

Girls benefit from doing sports

A new Canadian study found that girls who participate in school sports activities during middle childhood show improved behaviour and attentiveness in early adolescence. The study, led by Linda Pagani, suggests that extracurricular sports can be a positive approach to promote psychological well-being and reduce ADHD symptoms in girls.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateSep 29, 2020

Preferences for public allocation of vaccine for COVID-19

A survey study explores public preferences for COVID-19 vaccine allocation. The results show that most people prioritize vaccine distribution to high-risk groups, including seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions. This preference is expected to influence healthcare policy decisions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 29, 2020

Brain circuitry shaped by competition for space as well as genetics

A new computer modelling study suggests that simple interactions between nerve cells contribute to the development of complex brain circuits, making a precise genetic blueprint unnecessary. The findings help answer how the brain wires itself during development and may inform new ways to treat conditions that disrupt brain circuits.

SourceeLife·DateSep 29, 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.

Prostate cancer: immunotherapy offers hope

A phase 3 clinical trial found that ipilimumab improved progression-free survival by two to three times in patients with metastasized, castration-resistant prostate cancer. The treatment also showed overall survival benefits compared to the placebo arm.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalEuropean Urology·DateSep 29, 2020

Smart cruise control steers drivers toward better decisions

A team of researchers developed a cooperative adaptive cruise control model that uses streaming data to predict the driving states of preceding vehicles, reducing congestion and traffic accidents. The model can be tested using actual connected, autonomous vehicles and could create a safer future for everyone sharing the road.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalTransportation Research Part B Methodological·DateSep 29, 2020

Plant droplets serve as nutrient-rich food for insects

A Rutgers-led study reveals that small water droplets on plant leaves are rich in carbohydrates and proteins, essential for insect survival. This discovery has profound implications for the conservation of beneficial insects and could reduce pest problems in various crops.

SourceRutgers University·DateSep 29, 2020

More than 90% of driver's license suspensions are not related to traffic safety

A study found that non-driving-related license suspensions are given to over 90% of drivers in New Jersey, affecting low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. These suspensions disproportionately limit access to employment and healthcare, with failure to pay fines being the most common reason.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateSep 29, 2020

New fire containment research addresses risk and safety

Researchers at Colorado State University developed a decision support prototype to help fire managers tailor suppression responses to local conditions. The tool addresses complexities by organizing information on ecological, social, and policy factors.

SourceColorado State University·JournalForests·DateSep 29, 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.

Cardiac arrhythmias linked to gene mutations

Researchers discovered a link between gene mutations in SCN2B and SCN4B genes and cardiac arrhythmias. The study sheds light on the role of sodium V channels in maintaining heart function and may lead to new treatments for cardiac syndromes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioelectricity·DateSep 29, 2020

Scientists studied nanoparticles embedded in silver-ion-exchanged glasses

Researchers from Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University successfully created silver nanoparticles in an ion-exchanged glass using infrared nanosecond laser pulses. The nanoparticles demonstrate surface plasmon resonance, enabling signal enhancement of up to 10^6 times in Raman spectroscopy.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalNanomaterials·DateSep 29, 2020

Breast cancer medication risk

A new study published in Frontiers In Oncology found a negative association between beta-blocker use and survival outcomes in patients with HER2 positive advanced breast cancer. The research highlights a subgroup of patients whose survival outcomes are poorer and calls for further investigation to improve treatment outcomes.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·DateSep 29, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study identifies shortcomings in FDA evaluations for new opioid drug approvals over two decades

A study found that FDA evaluations for new opioid drugs approved between 1997 and 2018 lacked systematic assessments of safety-related outcomes, particularly for chronic pain applications. The analysis revealed that trials often excluded patients who could not tolerate the drugs and failed to assess important adverse events.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 29, 2020

A cancer shredder

Researchers at University of Würzburg developed a drug that can disarm Aurora-A kinase, a protein that causes extensive damage in cancers like leukemias and neuroblastomas. The new PROTAC substance completely degrades the Aurora protein in cancer cells, leading to cell death.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 29, 2020

Understanding the effect of aging on the genome

Researchers analyzed gene expression in liver, heart, and muscle tissues of aging mice to define an 'aging footprint.' This data helped identify genes and proteins controlling the aging process, which may also be relevant in human aging. The study's findings have implications for understanding age-related diseases.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 29, 2020

Especially important for older men need to stay hydrated

Research reveals that older adults are less able to regulate body temperature and hydration during exercise in hot environments due to decreased sensitivity to elevated blood osmolality. This can lead to increased risk of heat-related injuries and adverse heart problems, highlighting the importance of staying hydrated.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateSep 29, 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.

New mechanism for anti-infection effects of dietary fiber

Researchers found that dietary fiber-derived fatty acids activate macrophage activity against Salmonella infection by binding to apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), triggering inflammasome activation. This new mechanism provides insights into the effects of dietary fiber on the immune system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 29, 2020

Inflammatory gene provides clue to obesity risk

A study from the University of Queensland found that a gene controlling inflammation increases the risk of obesity. Researchers discovered that variations in this gene lead to excessive inflammation in fat tissue, contributing to weight gain. By turning off the gene in mice, they were able to prevent weight gain and reduce diabetes risk

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Metabolism·DateSep 29, 2020

Mussels connect antibodies to treat cancer

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a novel immunotherapy platform called imuGlue, which connects mussel adhesive proteins to antibodies used in immune checkpoint inhibitors.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiomaterials·DateSep 29, 2020

Lessons from a cooling climate

A team of researchers has applied their model to the emergence of Southeast Asia, finding that volcanic rock provinces in the tropics are a major factor in determining CO2 levels. This discovery sheds light on our current climate crisis and provides insights into how geological processes can help mitigate its effects.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2020

Study reveals dietary fructose heightens inflammatory bowel disease

A new study suggests that high fructose intake exacerbates intestinal inflammation common to IBD, potentially worsening the condition for patients. Researchers found that a western diet, including fructose, is associated with increasing rates of obesity and diabetes, which may further increase IBD risk.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateSep 29, 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.

Scientists got one step closer to solving a major problem of hydrogen energy

A team of scientists from Far Eastern Federal University and their colleagues developed a way to hydrogenate thin metallic glass layers at room temperature, which can expand the range of cheap, energy-efficient materials for hydrogen energy. Metallic glass has potential to replace expensive palladium in hydrogen systems.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateSep 29, 2020

Achieving clean air for all is possible

A new study shows that clean air is achievable globally with policy interventions in multiple sectors, including environmental policies, energy and climate policies, and agricultural production system transformation. The required measures would also contribute to sustainable development and human development goals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateSep 29, 2020

New discovery helps researchers rethink organoid cultures

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have made a groundbreaking discovery about organoids, stem cell-based tissue surrogates that mimic organs. The team found that organoids on the edges of an extracellular matrix dome respond differently to stimuli compared to those in the center, potentially leading to misleading results.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournaliScience·DateSep 29, 2020

A revised map of where working memory resides in the brain

Researchers found that working memory is not confined to one brain area but requires synchronous activity of at least two regions. Gpr12 receptors in the thalamus are essential for establishing synchrony between the prefrontal cortex and other brain areas, leading to improved working memory performance.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateSep 29, 2020

Genetic gains for better grains

Researchers from KAUST analyzed fonio millet genomes to identify genes that could lead to higher yields and larger grains. The study found two genes, DeGs5-3A and DeSh1-9A, which were artificially selected for their larger grain size.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 29, 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.

Landslides have long-term effects on tundra vegetation

A study found that tundra vegetation regenerated rapidly after a major landslide event, but took decades to recover. High-resolution satellite data revealed small changes in land cover and permafrost thawing.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 28, 2020

Detecting fake online photos, videos with a computerized brain

Researchers at University of Missouri are developing an AI-powered detection system to identify and prevent deepfakes. The system will learn from a small number of examples and self-evolve to detect evolving techniques, providing real-time alerts to smartphone users.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 28, 2020

Surplus sugar helps whiteflies detoxify plant defenses

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have found that surplus sugar from honeydew secretions by whiteflies is used to detoxify plant toxins. The discovery of a novel glucosylation pathway reveals how whiteflies prevent activation of mustard oil bomb in cruciferous plants.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateSep 28, 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.

Human dispersal into Iberia

Researchers reveal modern human presence in central Portugal at least 41,100 years ago, contradicting previous timing. The findings suggest a rapid spread into southern Europe after arrival in northern Iberia, with Neanderthal populations dwindling due to environmental factors.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 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.

Roboticizing fabrics

Scientists created a new type of fabric that can change shape and support loads, using heat-responsive alloy, stiff composite fibers, and conductive ink. The robotic fabric was used to make a tourniquet and napkin-sized sheet that can fold into a box supporting up to 50g of weight.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2020

Copycat plant booster improves on nature

Researchers have designed a synthetic molecule that mimics the function of zaxinone, a natural growth-promoting plant metabolite, to improve root growth and limit Striga infestation in rice plants. The new molecule, MiZax3, has shown excellent activity and stability, with two mimics performing even better than zaxinone itself.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMolecular Plant·DateSep 28, 2020