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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 103


Page 103 of 512

The Milky Way galaxy has a clumpy halo

The Milky Way's circumgalactic medium (CGM) has a disk-like geometry, with denser areas where stars are forming and material is being traded between the galaxy and the CGM. The discovery provides insight into the galaxy's formation and evolution, as well as its interaction with the surrounding universe.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 19, 2020

Save it or spend it? Advertising decisions amid consumer word-of-mouth

A new study in Marketing Science suggests that when consumers learn about products from others, high-quality businesses should increase their advertising spending to prove quality. Conversely, when all consumers share their experiences, a high-quality business may benefit from reducing its ad spend.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateOct 19, 2020

Significant link found between air pollution and neurological disorders

A large-scale study found significant associations between air pollution and an increased risk of hospital admissions for several neurological disorders. The research analyzed data from over 63 million US adults and linked fine particulate pollution with higher rates of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateOct 19, 2020

Tapping secrets of Aussie spider's unique silk

Researchers have discovered a unique type of silk produced by the Australian basket-web spider, which is rigid and robust. The study suggests that this silk could be used to create a new genetic material with potential applications.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 19, 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.

COVID-19 heightens urgency of advanced care planning, according to WVU study

A study by West Virginia University researchers found a sharp uptick in inquiries about end-of-life care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Center's e-Directive Registry saw an increase in DNR cards and Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment forms, indicating a growing need for advance care planning.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Pain and Symptom Management·DateOct 19, 2020

'Multi-omics' adds new cell to immune family tree

WEHI researchers used 'single cell multi-omics' to identify a previously unknown lymphocyte progenitor, which could give rise to T and B lymphocytes. This discovery adds a new layer to the immune family tree and provides insights into how these cells develop.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateOct 19, 2020

Cheaters don't always win: species that work together do better

Researchers found that communities with multiple mutualist species are better equipped to withstand the negative effects of cheaters, as there are backup species to perform the same task. This is because having multiple species with similar roles provides a backup in case one species goes extinct.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScience·DateOct 19, 2020

Trees bring benefits to society, regardless of their origin

A study by Université de Genève analyzed 911 tree species in Geneva's urban spaces and found that most native and non-native species provide similar ecosystem services. Despite some drawbacks, the research concludes that introduced species can have a beneficial role in certain contexts.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·DateOct 19, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists improve model of landslide-induced tsunami

Researchers have developed a new model of landslide-induced tsunamis that accounts for the initial location of the landslide body on the shelf slope. The study reveals that tsunami height is affected by the coastal slope and the position of the land mass before slipping, leading to more accurate predictions.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalLandslides·DateOct 19, 2020

Tropical cyclones moving faster in recent decades

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters reveals that tropical cyclones have been moving faster across ocean basins since 1982, with the North Atlantic experiencing an increase in hurricane frequency. The researchers attribute this trend to a combination of natural and human-induced climate change.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 19, 2020

Global analysis of microbial diversity in marine sediment

Marine sediment shows similar overall diversity to topsoil and seawater, despite decreasing microbial community diversity with depth. Key factors influencing taxonomic composition include organic carbon concentrations and dissolved oxygen presence.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

Ultraviolet shines light on origins of the solar system

A team of researchers from Arizona State University compared the sun's composition to ancient materials formed in the solar system, finding that oxygen isotopes were inherited from the protosolar molecular cloud. This suggests that ultraviolet light processing occurred before the solar nebula formed.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 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.

Nutrient cycling in Lake Baikal

A study analyzing silicon isotope composition of diatoms reveals a significant increase in silicon availability in the 20th and 21st centuries. Climate records show an increase in wind strength, which contributes to nutrient upwelling from Lake Baikal's depths.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

Impacts of sanctuary policies on crime

A study analyzing US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data found that sanctuary policies decrease overall deportations, particularly among individuals with violent convictions. However, crime rates remain unaffected, suggesting that sanctuary policies do not threaten public safety.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

Material found in house paint may spur technology revolution

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new device that more efficiently processes information using non-volatile computer memory. The breakthrough could revolutionize technologies like voice recognition, image processing, and autonomous driving by reducing energy consumption.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 19, 2020

Paper recycling must be powered by renewables to save climate

A new modelling study by researchers at UCL and Yale found that paper recycling may increase greenhouse gas emissions unless powered by renewable energy. The study suggests that modernising landfill practices and using renewable energy can reduce emissions significantly.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Sustainability·DateOct 19, 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.

New lab test clarifies the potential protective effects of COVID-19 antibodies

Researchers at Ohio State University developed a new lab testing procedure for detecting neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, which can protect against re-infection and block viral replication. The assay found that ICU patients had the highest concentration of neutralizing antibodies, while healthcare workers had the lowest levels.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJCI Insight·DateOct 19, 2020

An ultrasonic projector for medicine

Researchers have developed a chip-based technology that generates high-resolution sound profiles with intense sound pressure. This allows for more effective and easier ultrasound therapy, potentially benefiting patients with cancer, brain conditions, and other diseases. The technology also enables the creation of organoid models for dr...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 19, 2020

Magnetic field and hydrogels could be used to grow new cartilage

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has demonstrated a new method to rebuild complex body tissues using a magnetic field and hydrogels. This technique allows for the creation of engineered tissues with natural tissue-like properties, including a cellular gradient.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 19, 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.

New evidence found of the ritual significance of a classic Maya sweat bath in Guatemala

Archaeologists discovered a rare and unusual collection of artifacts at a Classic Maya sweat bath in Guatemala, suggesting the structure was embodied by an amphibian goddess. The offering included human remains, juvenile animals, and stone tools, indicating the community's attempt to appease the goddess for survival.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalCambridge Archaeological Journal·DateOct 19, 2020

Detecting early-stage failure in electric power conversion devices

A study published in IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics detects the earliest stages of failure in silicon carbide power electronics through real-time acoustic monitoring. The researchers found that increasing acoustic emission signals correspond to progressive damage to aluminum ribbons, allowing for early warning of device failure.

SourceOsaka University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·DateOct 19, 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.

Immune protein orchestrates daily rhythm of squid-bacteria symbiotic relationship

Researchers found that an immune protein in squid controls the movement of immune cells to deliver nutrients to bacteria, influencing daily rhythms. This discovery could provide clues on factors affecting human microbiome rhythms and has implications for understanding symbiotic systems.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2020

Unique program aims to educate Muslim teens on HIV prevention

A new sex education program for Muslim teens, Sex Education in the Mosque, has been developed to address HIV prevention and promote abstinence. The program, grounded in Islamic teachings, showed significant gains in knowledge and positive attitudes among adolescent participants.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateOct 19, 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.

Mystery over decline in sea turtle sightings

Researchers have found a decline in sea turtle sightings off the coasts of the UK and Ireland over the past few decades. The study suggests that factors such as climate change, prey availability, and environmental disasters may be influencing this trend.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom·DateOct 18, 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.

Big babies could be at higher risk of common heart rhythm disorder in adulthood

Research suggests that individuals born with high birth weights may be at higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation later in life. A study found that participants with a birth weight 482 grams above the average were 30% more likely to develop the heart rhythm disorder. The researchers recommend adopting a healthy lifestyle and payi...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateOct 18, 2020

Losing flight had huge benefits for ants, finds new study

Researchers found that loss of flight allowed ants to reorganize their thorax muscles, increasing strength and power. This adaptation enabled worker ants to carry heavy loads back to their colonies, a key factor in their social success.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateOct 18, 2020

Wearable pressure-sensitive devices for medical use

Researchers at Terasaki Institute create wearable pressure-sensitive devices using a gelatin-based hydrogel that offers superior elastic properties and skin compatibility. The device enables real-time monitoring of vital signs with high sensitivity and consistency.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 17, 2020

Old methods prove true for studying proteins

A team of scientists from KAUST has rediscovered the value of an old technique in studying proteins through NMR spectroscopy. By re-examining the molecular motions of proteins, they found that dynamic NOE provides more accurate information about protein flexibility and is less prone to errors, especially in flexible regions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Biomolecular NMR·DateOct 17, 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.

Results from the OPTIMIZE trial reported at TCT Connect

The OPTIMIZE trial found that the new stent did not meet non-inferiority criteria due to high TVMI rates from high-sensitivity troponin biomarkers. However, independent analyses demonstrate non-inferiority with comparable relative non-inferiority margin, suggesting potential for improved clinical outcomes

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 17, 2020

Results from the COBRA-REDUCE trial reported at TCT Connect

A randomized trial comparing a nano-coated coronary stent with shorter dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) to a drug-eluting stent (DES) with guideline-recommended DAPT duration found no reduction in bleeding or thrombotic events. The study included 996 patients and found the rate of bleeding in the test group was 7.5% compared to 8.9% i...

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 17, 2020

Echo from the past makes rice paddies a good home for wetland plants

Researchers found that rice paddies with a history of being wetlands support more wetland plant species. Land consolidation and agricultural abandonment negatively impact biodiversity. The study's findings may inform conservation efforts and promote sustainable agriculture in the Asian monsoon region.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 17, 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.

Results from HOST-REDUCE-POLYTECH-ACS trial reported at TCT Connect

A randomized trial found that durable polymer drug-eluting stents are non-inferior to biodegradable polymers in patients with acute coronary syndrome, with a higher risk of device-oriented composite endpoint. The study suggests improved outcomes for patients with significant coronary stenosis and eligible for stent implantation.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 17, 2020

Molecular design strategy reveals near infrared-absorbing hydrocarbon

The researchers synthesized a unique molecule that absorbs near infrared light, despite having only hydrogen and carbon atoms. The molecule's narrow gap between its highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) makes it useful for developing next-generation solid-state materials.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 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.

Unique adaptations allow owls to rule the night

Researchers found genes involved in sensory perception showed accelerated evolution, including those for light perception, dim-light vision, and retina development. The study also identified 32 genes related to DNA packaging and chromosome condensation, which may enable owls to channel light more efficiently.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateOct 16, 2020

Results from the DEFINE-FLOW study reported at TCT Connect

The DEFINE-FLOW study found that vessels with abnormal FFR (<0.8) but intact CFR (>=2.0) do not have non-inferior outcomes compared to those with normal FFR and CFR when treated medically. The study's results suggest that invasive CFR assessment may not be necessary for lesions with preserved coronary flow reserve.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 16, 2020

OnSight Medical wins TCT Connect 2020 Shark Tank Innovation Competition

OnSight Medical's AI-based software provides real-time expert-level scans with high-quality 4D images, enhancing access to cardiac ultrasound in underserved populations. The company won the TCT Connect 2020 Shark Tank Innovation Competition and received a $200,000 award from the Jon DeHaan Foundation.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 16, 2020

NASA supercomputing study breaks ground for tree mapping, carbon research

Scientists mapped the location and size of over 1.8 billion trees using powerful supercomputers and machine learning algorithms, discovering billions of trees in arid regions. The study provides vital information for researchers, policymakers, and conservationists, including accurate counts of trees and their carbon storage potential.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateOct 16, 2020

New study highlights the role of risk communication in coping with COVID-19

A new study by psychologists at Zhengzhou Normal University found that effective risk communication mitigates emotional contagion and anxiety, while inconsistent findings suggest a reciprocal correlation between anxiety and risk communication. The study analyzed data from January to February 2020 and showed that prevention activities w...

SourceZhengzhou Normal University·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateOct 16, 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.

The mental health impact of pandemics for front line health care staff

Research from the University of East Anglia found that nearly a quarter of healthcare workers experienced PTSD symptoms during acute pandemic phases, with elevated levels of mental distress also reported. The study aims to inform hospital managers on resources required to support staff through difficult times.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEuropean Journal of Psychotraumatology·DateOct 16, 2020

Calcium bursts kill drug-resistant tumor cells

Researchers developed nanoparticles that release bursts of calcium inside tumor cells, inhibiting drug pumps and reversing MDR. The treatment showed significantly smaller tumors in tumor-bearing mice with no apparent side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 16, 2020

High fructose intake may drive aggressive behaviors, ADHD, bipolar

New research suggests that high fructose intake may drive aggressive behaviors, ADHD, and bipolar disorder by triggering a foraging response. This process, meant for survival during starvation, can lead to impulsive behavior in excess sugar intake.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateOct 16, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Surrey is leading the way in perovskite tandem solar cells

The University of Surrey has made significant advancements in perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving higher power conversion efficiencies through adjustments to thickness and the development of more effective protective layers. This progress holds promise for accelerating commercialization and promoting a shift towards green energy.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalChemical Reviews·DateOct 16, 2020

Researchers discover a uniquely quantum effect in erasing information

The researchers found that even in ideal conditions, quantum superposition leads to rare events with higher heat dissipation than the Landauer limit, which challenges traditional understanding of information erasure. This finding has significant implications for future quantum chips and thermodynamics.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 16, 2020