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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 201


Page 201 of 512

NASA satellite catches the end of Post-tropical Storm Kyle

NASA's Terra satellite captured a visible image of Post-tropical Storm Kyle on Aug. 16, revealing an elongated circulation and ill-defined center. The storm had become an extratropical low-pressure area attached to warm and cold fronts, leading to its dissipation by Aug. 17.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 17, 2020

Flies and mosquitoes beware, here comes the slingshot spider

Researchers at Georgia Tech study slingshot spider's ability to store energy in its web, achieving acceleration of 1,300 m/s2 and forces of over 130 Gs. The spider uses a latch mechanism to release the web and launch itself towards prey.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 17, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Discovered a new method of biofortification that transforms leaves into nutrient stores

A team of researchers at CSIC and CRAG has discovered a new method to transform chloroplasts in leaves into chromoplasts, which produce high levels of carotenoids. This process can increase the nutritional value of crops and provide a sustainable source for the food and cosmetic industries.

SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Energy-efficient tuning of spintronic neurons

Researchers at Tohoku University and the University of Gothenburg developed a novel voltage-controlled spintronic oscillator capable of closely imitating non-linear oscillatory neural networks. The technology allows for strong tuning with negligible energy consumption, enabling efficient training of large neural networks.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2020

Is exposure to BPA associated with long-term risk of death?

A study examined whether BPA exposure is associated with the long-term risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cancer, or any cause among U.S. adults. The research found a positive association between BPA exposure and increased mortality risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 17, 2020

Volcanic control of seawater sulfur

Researchers developed a model that suggests large volcanic intrusions were responsible for major changes in oceanic sulfate over the past 120 million years. The study found that these events were coupled with changes in sulfur burial efficiency and led to significant increases in seawater sulfate concentrations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Assessment of COVID-19 hospitalizations by race/ethnicity in 12 states

A study analyzing COVID-19 data from 12 states found significant racial and ethnic disparities in hospitalizations, with non-Hispanic white patients having lower rates compared to Black, Hispanic, and Asian patients. The researchers used data from the COVID-19 Tracking Project to examine trends and identify areas for improvement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 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.

2D materials for ultrascaled field-effect transistors

Researchers at ETH Zurich and EPF Lausanne have identified 13 possible 2D materials that can be used to build ultra-scaled field-effect transistors, potentially surpassing conventional silicon-based technology.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 17, 2020

Social connection boosts fitness app appeal

A recent study found that social components of fitness apps facilitate motivation and beliefs in physical activity, leading to increased engagement. The study highlights the importance of social support in promoting exercise behavior.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPsychology of Sport and Exercise·DateAug 17, 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.

Lack of continuous infectious disease pandemic research endangers responses

A study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found a significant decrease in research on emerging infectious diseases after an outbreak, hindering preparedness for future pandemics. The research highlights the need for sustained investment in coronavirus research to develop new drugs, vaccines, and preventive strategies.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalGigaScience·DateAug 17, 2020

How sour beer gets so... sour (video)

Researchers analyze how acids and other compounds contribute to sour beer's unique taste, with findings that could help brewers gain more control over the flavor. The study uses NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to track changes in organic acids and identify trace compounds that influence flavor.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 17, 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.

Are tipping points suitable concepts for developing environmental policies?

A team of researchers analyzed over 4,600 field experiments and found that gradual changes can have devastating consequences on ecosystems. The study suggests that focusing solely on tipping points may overlook the negative impact of gradual changes, and that a more nuanced approach is needed to develop effective environmental policies.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 17, 2020

NASA sees former Tropical Storm Josephine open into a trough

Tropical Storm Josephine weakened on August 16, with satellite imagery showing it had become elongated and stretched out into a trough of low pressure. The storm's cloud top temperatures were near minus 70 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating it was degenerating rapidly.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 17, 2020

How viral infections associated with cancer become persistent?

Researchers have discovered a region of viral protein LANA that is crucial for KSHV persistence in human cells, which could potentially be used to develop therapy for KSHV tumors. The study found that this LANA region interacts with p53 and other unacetylated proteins, allowing the virus to persist in tumor cells.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Researchers develop new detection method to protect Army networks

Researchers developed a novel algorithm to detect subtle changes in network data, enabling the protection of Army networks from adversarial actions. The new method uses higher-order networks to analyze complex systems and identify influential nodes, predict co-evolution of multi-genre networks.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateAug 17, 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.

Scientists develop approach to synthesize unconventional nanoalloys for electrocatalytic application

Researchers developed a new method to synthesize unconventional nanoalloys composed of immiscible metals, which showed superior performances in electrocatalytic reactions. The approach uses vapor-source technology and allows for control over composition and size, enabling the creation of cost-effective, highly active, and durable elect...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateAug 17, 2020

Desire to be in a group leads to harsher judgment of others

A study by Duke University researchers found that individuals who identify with groups tend to discriminate against those outside their groups, even in non-political settings. In contrast, those who do not identify with groups are less prone to bias and make decisions faster.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Using personal frequency to control brain activity

Researchers at Max Planck Institute successfully precisely influenced a single area of the brain by inhibiting its rhythm, decreasing functional connectivity and information exchange with other networks. This precise control enables potential therapeutic applications for diseases caused by disturbed brain functions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalNeuroImage·DateAug 17, 2020

New superlattice material for future energy efficient devices

Researchers at Stony Brook University have developed a new superlattice material that exhibits high temperature and tunable electrical transport properties. This finding has the potential to improve energy-efficient technologies by conducting dissipationless current without energy loss.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 17, 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.

Hidden secrets written in stone

A new VR experience, Beyond the Ice, brings Hallett Cove's fossilized landscape to life with immersive 3D detail. Users can identify fossils, measure glacial grooves and draw rock folds using virtual tools.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·DateAug 17, 2020

Drexel study: Measuring social networks of young adults with autism

Researchers developed a method to analyze social networks of autistic youth, showing how interpersonal relationships and resources can impact adult outcomes. The study found that social connections and support from family members are crucial for autistic young adults' quality of life and independence.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAutism in Adulthood·DateAug 17, 2020

NASA finds short-lived Fausto faded fast

NASA's Terra satellite reveals Post-Tropical Storm Fausto has lost strong storms, temperatures as cold as minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Hurricane Center confirms the system has become a remnant low-pressure area with no organized deep convection expected to return.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 17, 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.

Desert greenhouses offer growth opportunities

Researchers at KAUST propose vast greenhouse complexes using energy-efficient solar panels, air-cooling technologies, and salt-tolerant agriculture to grow food and crops. This concept aims to provide sustainable, local crop growth on a large scale in coastal desert regions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 17, 2020

Scientists use photons as threads to weave novel forms of matter

Researchers successfully bound two negatively charged electron-like particles using photons, creating a novel form of matter called a Photon Bound Exciton. This discovery enables the creation of novel artificial atoms with designer electronic configurations.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 17, 2020

Penguins are Aussies. Or are they Kiwis?

A new study reveals that penguins originated along the coasts of Australia and New Zealand, 22 million years ago. The researchers also found that penguins are not adapting quickly enough to changing climate conditions, putting many populations at risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 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.

Designed bacteria produce coral-antibiotic

Researchers have developed a method to produce the coral-antibiotic erogorgiaene in a laboratory using genetically optimized bacteria. The production costs are significantly lower than conventional methods, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateAug 17, 2020

NUS study finds that air pollution is a driver of residential electricity demand

A NUS study found that households respond to air pollution by increasing electricity consumption, leading to higher carbon emissions. Cleaner urban air can reduce energy demand and mitigate carbon emissions. The study highlights the need for policymakers to consider the impact of air quality on energy demand in developing countries.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·DateAug 16, 2020

Antibiotic overuse reduces bladder cancer survival rates

A new study by Flinders University researchers found that antibiotic use is directly associated with worse survival rates in patients with urothelial carcinoma treated with atezolizumab. The study suggests antibiotics may specifically reduce the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapies, highlighting a need for extra caution when using t...

SourceFlinders University·JournalEuropean Urology·DateAug 16, 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 diagnostic criteria shine light on early dementia mimics

A new diagnostic definition for Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) has been established, allowing researchers to better characterise the condition and its prognosis. The criteria also hold promise for strengthening research into dementia by identifying patients for trials.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBrain·DateAug 16, 2020

How power distance belief affects consumers' price sensitivity

A new study in the Journal of Marketing identifies cultural variable power distance belief as a determinant of consumers' price sensitivity. Consumers high in power distance belief are less price-sensitive and more likely to seize current offers, reducing their likelihood of searching for better-priced options.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 15, 2020

This online calculator can predict your stroke risk, study finds

A new online calculator developed by UVA Health System researchers can predict stroke risk in patients with metabolic syndrome. The tool, available for free, uses a scoring system to assess the severity of metabolic syndrome and identify patients at risk.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalStroke·DateAug 14, 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.

Using infrared eye tracking to study infant behavior

Researchers adapted existing infrared technology to assess infant recognition memory and cognitive outcomes, finding that infants prefer novel stimuli and exhibit side preferences. The automated technique eliminated examiner bias and variation, enabling large-scale studies on infant development.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalNeurotoxicology and Teratology·DateAug 14, 2020

NASA finds wind shear making Tropical Depression 10E struggle

Tropical Depression 10E is struggling to intensify due to strong northeasterly wind shear, according to NASA's Suomi NPP satellite imagery. The depression has maintained a small ragged band of convection in its southwest quadrant despite the adverse conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 14, 2020

A light bright and tiny: NIST scientists build a better nanoscale LED

A new design for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) developed by NIST scientists achieves a significant increase in brightness and the ability to create laser light, overcoming a long-standing limitation in LED efficiency. The device shows an increase of 100 to 1,000 times in brightness over conventional tiny LEDs.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 14, 2020

AI software enables real-time 3D printing quality assessment

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed an AI software named Peregrine for powder bed 3D printers, assessing part quality in real-time. The software uses convolutional neural networks to analyze images and detect anomalies, alerting operators for adjustments.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateAug 14, 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.

Green electricity for Europe: Small scale solutions also affordable

A new study by researchers in Potsdam and Zurich shows that smaller scale systems incur a cost penalty of less than 20% compared to continental-scale systems. However, with cooperation between grid operators and neighboring grids, the cost penalties can be reduced, supporting current efforts to establish a European electricity market.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalJoule·DateAug 14, 2020

Researchers one step closer to bomb-sniffing cyborg locusts

Researchers successfully trained locusts to detect and differentiate various explosives using their olfactory system. The team also developed a way to read the brain activity of the locusts to pinpoint the direction of odor emission, paving the way for bomb-sniffing cyborg locusts.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateAug 14, 2020

Sustainable biosynthetic transparent films for plastic substitute

A team of researchers from China has developed a sustainable, ultra-strong and transparent film made from living bacteria. The film, inspired by nacre, exhibits unique optical properties and excellent mechanical strength, making it a potential substitute for plastics in packaging and electronics.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalMatter·DateAug 14, 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.

Watching changes in plant metabolism -- live

Researchers at the University of Münster used a new method to monitor plant metabolic processes in real-time, revealing key mechanisms in energy metabolism and their connection to environmental factors. The study provides new insights into plant responses to stressors like light, temperature, and pest infestation.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateAug 14, 2020

Study explores the association of malaria, HIV with anemia during pregnancy

Researchers found a higher prevalence of anemia in pregnant women with malaria and HIV coinfections compared to those without infections. The study suggests that multipronged strategies to prevent and treat these infections are critical to ensure the survival of mothers and their unborn babies.

SourcePenn State·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateAug 14, 2020

UCLA computer scientists set benchmarks to optimize quantum computer performance

Researchers created a family of benchmark quantum circuits with known optimal depths or sizes to improve quantum compilation design. This could lead to computation speeds up to 45 times faster than currently demonstrated. The benchmarks, named QUEKO, have been made open source and are available on GitHub.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computers·DateAug 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.

How people and ecosystems fit together on the Great Barrier Reef

A world-first study examining the Great Barrier Reef's management found that people are managed at broader scales than ecological variation, suggesting a general principle for permitting and management. This approach may be more effective in sustainably managing ecosystems, especially small protected areas.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalOne Earth·DateAug 14, 2020

The flax wilt agent has been sequenced

The Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lini genome has been fully assembled, providing insights into the parasite's adaptation to flax and its potential for breeding resistant crop varieties. The study aims to elucidate specific mechanisms of Fusarium adaptation to different hosts and find genes responsible for its preferences.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateAug 14, 2020

Study identifies social connection as the strongest protective factor for depression

Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital identified social connection and reducing sedentary activities like TV watching as valuable targets for preventing depression. The study found that frequency of confiding in others, visits with family and friends, were strong protective factors against depression risk.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateAug 14, 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.