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Science News Archive 2020


Page 12 of 512

The health risk raised by ultra-processed foods

A large-scale Italian study found that consuming ultra-processed foods is associated with a 26% increased risk of death and a 58% increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that industrial processing itself may be the main culprit, rather than added sugars.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How does immersive reality affect implicit racial bias?

Researchers found that immersive virtual reality can reduce implicit racial bias when participants experience a neutral or positive social situation. However, a negative environment can lead to increased biases and decreased body ownership, suggesting caution in using VR as an empathy machine.

Skinnier but resilient geese thriving in the high Arctic

A long-term study reveals that barnacle geese are resilient to environmental changes, despite a 10% decrease in body weight, which doesn't seem to affect population numbers. The researchers found that other factors like earlier springs and fox predation play a more significant role in shaping the geese's survival.

Change in global precipitation patterns as a result of climate change

A study by Dr. Michael Deininger found that changes in regional precipitation over the past 10,000 years are connected and mainly caused by alterations to solar radiation and associated temperature differences between tropics and polar regions. This could lead to shifts in regional rainfall patterns, potentially causing droughts in som...

2D material controls light twice stronger

A research team at POSTECH has successfully measured and controlled the phase of second-harmonic generation (SHG) in 2D materials, opening new possibilities for nonlinear spectroscopic control methods. The study uses heterobilayer materials to create light with twice the frequency of vibration and controlled phase.

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.

Investigating the carbon intensity of ferries

A recent CMCC study analyzed 2018's Ro-Pax CO2 data from EU-MRV, revealing clustering in vessel populations and key factors contributing to high emissions. The study found variability spanning five orders of magnitude due to ferry size, propulsion features, age, and other characteristics.

Neuroendovascular procedures linked to patient back pain

A study by researchers at the University of Missouri found that more than 40% of patients undergoing neuroendovascular procedures while conscious experience back pain during the procedure. The high prevalence of back pain suggests a need for clinicians to address this issue and explore strategies to reduce its occurrence.

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.

Air pollution linked to higher rates of kidney disease

Exposure to fine particulate air pollution is associated with a greater likelihood of chronic kidney disease. The risk is stronger in urban areas, males, younger adults, and those without comorbid diseases. Air pollution levels can be estimated using satellite-based information.

Can water saving traits help wine survive climate change?

Researchers found that grapevines from hot and dry regions have water-saving traits that conserve water and extend the growing season. These traits could help vines cope with climate change, but may also limit future photosynthesis and sugar production.

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.

Fish oil supplements don't raise bad cholesterol

A recent study from the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study and FARI found that fish oil supplement use in the general population does not adversely affect LDL-C. In fact, higher RBC DHA levels are associated with a small decrease in LDL-C levels.

Pulp succeeded in diet? Determining the slenderization of wood pulp

Scientists at Osaka University create test to determine wood pulp quality by analyzing its optical birefringence, leading to clearer grading and utilization of renewable biomass. This innovation uses the intrinsic property of cellulose nanofibers to measure morphology change, enabling precise structure control.

Improved macaque genome enhances biomedical utility

Researchers have created a more complete reference genome for the rhesus macaque, expanding its potential use in human disease modeling and genetic therapy development. The updated genome assembly reveals thousands of naturally occurring gene variants associated with human conditions like autism and developmental delay.

Organic molecules on a metal surface... a machinist's best friend

Researchers found that applying an ultra-thin layer of organic film from markers or glue significantly improves the machinability of metals like aluminum, stainless steel, nickel, copper, and tantalum. This discovery reduces cutting forces, energy consumption, and manufacturing costs.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Research breakthrough could transform clean energy technology

Researchers at UVA, Caltech, and Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new catalyst using cobalt and titanium that can efficiently split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen. This breakthrough has the potential to make solar energy practical on a large scale.

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.

Infant circumcision may lead to social challenges as an adult

An international study by Aarhus University reveals that infant circumcision may lead to social challenges in adulthood, including difficulty bonding with partners and altered emotional stability. The research suggests a link between the state of stress triggered by infant circumcision and changes in behavior revealed as an adult.

Big brains and white matter: New clues about autism subtypes

Studies using longitudinal brain scans found a subtype of autism characterized by disproportionate megalencephaly and slower development in white matter tracts. Researchers also linked changes in white matter growth with autism traits and symptom severity.

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.

Blocking DNA repair enzyme could help treat certain cancers

A study published in Molecular Cell found that blocking ALC1 enzyme can selectively kill cancer cells with homologous recombination deficiency, offering a potential new treatment option for certain types of breast and ovarian cancers. The researchers also identified ALC1 as a key factor in determining patient survival rates.

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.

Ensuring a proper body plan

The discovery sheds light on how a subtle deviation in the development process can be detrimental to individual survival and reproductive success. The study reveals that Kdm7a regulates Hox gene expression, which is crucial for embryonal morphogenesis and vertebrate body plan development.

Flexible and powerful electronics

Researchers at University of Tsukuba develop a new carbon-based electrical device, π-ion gel transistors (PIGTs), with improved conductivity. The innovative technology may lead to the creation of flexible electronics and efficient photovoltaics.

New insights into Fragile X syndrome and the fetal brain

Researchers at Tohoku University discovered molecular mechanisms that cause Fragile X syndrome by studying fetal brain development in mice. The study identified key molecules associated with neurogenesis, autism, and intellectual disability.

How hope can make you happier with your lot

Researchers found that hope can buffer against risky behaviors like drinking and gambling, while relative deprivation triggers negative emotions. The study suggests that nurturing hope in people who are unhappy with their lot could protect against harmful behaviors.

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.

Some neurons target tiny cerebral blood vessel dilation

A team of Penn State engineers found a connection between nitric oxide-expressing neurons and changes in arterial diameters in mice, shedding light on brain function and aging. The researchers discovered that approximately half of the dynamic range in blood vessel diameter is controlled by a small group of neurons.

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.

Suicide mortality in Maryland during COVID-19 pandemic

A recent study analyzed differences in suicide deaths by race/ethnicity during the COVID-19 pandemic in Maryland. The results showed a significant increase in suicide mortality among certain racial and ethnic groups, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.

Exercise for low back pain beneficial but no one agrees on why

A systematic review found exercise provides relief from chronic low back pain, but researchers disagree on why it's effective. Common reasons proposed include improvements in fitness and mood, yet the effects of these factors on outcomes are often not examined.

Astronomers detect possible radio emission from exoplanet

Researchers have detected a possible radio signal from the exoplanet in the Tau Boötes system using the Low Frequency Array. The signal suggests that the planet's magnetic field may be contributing to its habitability by shielding its atmosphere from solar wind and cosmic rays.

Plant diversity in Germany on the decline

A comprehensive study reveals that Germany's plant diversity has been declining steadily over the past decade, affecting both archaeophytes and neophytes. The decline in species diversity averages around two percent per decade, with many common species being affected.

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.

Ignoring CDC guidelines leads to fear, anger among employees

A study by the University of Houston found that managers who followed CDC guidelines made employees feel grateful, while those who ignored recommendations enhanced fear and anger. This mixed messaging can have significant long-term negative consequences for both employees and organizations.

Dexamethasone should be avoided in patients with chronic subdural haematoma

New research from the University of Cambridge found that patients treated with dexamethasone had a lower chance of favourable recovery at six months compared to those receiving a placebo. The trial enrolled 748 patients with chronic subdural haematoma and showed that fewer patients in the dexamethasone group required repeat surgery.

Vaping could nearly triple the chance of smoking in teens

Teen boys who vaped were almost three times as likely to start smoking and two times more likely to try smokeless tobacco than their peers with similar risk profiles. The study used a robust statistical approach to provide evidence of the link between vaping and tobacco use in young people.

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 therapeutic target pinpointed for stomach cancer

Stomach cancers may respond to medicines that inhibit TNF, a protein involved in inflammation and disease progression. The discovery was made using a laboratory model of stomach cancer and suggests a potential new therapeutic target for this devastating disease.

New approach reveals structure and function of individual synapses

An interdisciplinary team of scientists has developed a novel approach to measure the activity and strength of individual synapses that drive a neuron's response. They found that strong synapses do not have strict relationships with neuron responses, but rather are influenced by the total number of activated synapses.

13.4% of studies in top nutrition journals in 2018 had food industry ties

A new analysis of 2018 studies found that 13.4% of publications disclosed food industry involvement, leading to research findings nearly six times more favorable to industry interests. This study highlights the potential for industry bias in nutrition research and calls for exploring mechanisms to prevent such compromises.

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.

Turning sweat against itself with a metal-free antiperspirant

Researchers have developed an evaporation-based approach using propylene glycol to create a gel-like plug that blocks sweat ducts, slowing perspiration. This metal-free antiperspirant could provide a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional products.

Extracting precious zinc from waste ash

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a unique method to extract valuable metals like zinc from fly ash produced by incinerating solid waste. This innovative approach can help reduce environmental pollution and increase the profitability of waste incineration, while also promoting a more circular economy.

Characterising cold fusion in 2D models

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding cold fusion through a new 2D modelling approach. By directly calculating the probabilities of fusion reactions involving muonic pairs of tritium atoms, the team found that these processes are 1 billion times more likely to occur than in 3D systems.

A new method for the functionalization of graphene

A team of researchers, led by INRS professor Federico Rosei, has developed a novel process to modify graphene's structure and properties using ultraviolet light. This breakthrough enables the creation of a band gap in graphene, making it suitable for use in electronics.

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.

Polariton interactions: Light matters

Polaritons interact more than expected due to strong light-matter coupling and huge exciton-photon mass ratio. This challenges common assumptions about these quasiparticles, shedding new light on their interactions and applications in ultra-low energy electronics.

Cancer: Tumor driver promoting EMT, metastasis and resistance to therapy

Researchers discovered that loss of function of FAT1 promotes hybrid EMT phenotype, characterized by co-expression of epithelial and mesenchymal genes in tumor cells, leading to metastasis and poor clinical outcome. FAT1 mutated cancers are highly resistant to several drugs, including EGFR inhibitor.