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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 301


Page 301 of 512

Signatures of fractional electronic charge observed in topological insulators

Scientists at the University of Illinois have detected fractional electronic charges in topological insulators, a breakthrough that could lead to more efficient and robust devices. The discovery was made using specially designed microwave resonators, which allowed the researchers to measure the signature of these fractional charges.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalScience·DateJun 9, 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.

Researchers put a price tag on alcohol use

A Finnish study used machine learning to analyze the economic burden of alcohol use disorders, finding that patients with multiple chronic conditions faced significantly higher care costs. The study highlights the importance of rehabilitation services and non-alcohol related treatment for individuals with alcohol use disorders.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalHealthcare Informatics Research·DateJun 9, 2020

New method to identify genes that can drive development of brain tumors

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a method to identify functional mutations in non-coding regions that contribute to the development of glioblastoma. The study reveals that specific mutations in these regions can disrupt gene regulation and lead to cancer progression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 9, 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.

The neurobiology of social distance

A new study by McGill University explores the wide-ranging, negative consequences of social isolation on human psychology and physical health. The research reveals that strong interpersonal relationships are critical for survival across the lifespan, while social isolation is a significant predictor of mortality and morbidity.

SourceMcGill University·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Lizard legacy sheds new light on web of life

A special issue of Austral Ecology celebrates the work of Professor Mike Bull, a leading expert in lizard behavior and ecology. The issue features 12 new studies on species like pygmy bluetongues and sleepy lizards, exploring topics such as parasites, environmental change, and sociality.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustral Ecology·DateJun 9, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Human eggs prefer some men's sperm over others, research shows

Research from Stockholm University and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust shows that human eggs use chemical signals to attract sperm. The study found that different women's eggs attract different men's sperm, not necessarily their partners. This phenomenon allows the egg to choose high-quality or genetically compatible sperm.

SourceStockholm University·DateJun 9, 2020

Strahl lab decodes another piece of the histone code puzzle

Researchers in Brian Strahl's lab reveal that different chemical modifications of a single amino acid residue on histones can have unique and shared functions in gene expression and DNA repair. They found that specific methylation states on histones regulate diverse chromatin functions, including responding to stress conditions.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 9, 2020

NUS and Stanford researchers uncover a new mindset that predicts success

Researchers from NUS and Stanford found that people with a strategic mindset ask themselves 'How else can I do this?' when faced with challenges, leading to effective strategies and improved performance in educational, professional, health and fitness goals. A strategic mindset can be taught through training and practice.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 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.

Nature's 'slow lanes' offer hope for species feeling heat of climate change

Researchers are exploring areas of landscape less prone to disturbances like fire and drought, known as disturbance refugia, to understand why change doesn't occur as quickly in some landscapes. These refugia may hold the key for conserving forest landscapes and biodiversity in a changing climate.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 9, 2020

Simple way of 'listening' to chicks could dramatically improve welfare

A new study found that chicks' distress calls can predict flock-level behavior, growth rate, and mortality rate, making it a potential 'iceberg indicator' for welfare issues. The researchers developed a simple method to measure these calls, which could act as an early-warning signal to farmers.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJun 9, 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.

Scientists identify ancient origin for key hormone system

Scientists have identified the ancient origin of key hormones essential for human reproduction, metabolism, and immune function in simple creatures like sea cucumbers. This breakthrough study suggests that these hormone systems predates the evolution of the spinal cord in animals.

SourceeLife·DateJun 9, 2020

AI sentencing tools need to be closely scrutinised, says new study

A new study urges judges to scrutinize algorithmic risk assessment tools used in criminal cases due to biases and weak statistical evidence. The review recommends three steps: fitness, accuracy, and reliability assessments to ensure the tool's relevance, performance, and trustworthiness.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalBehavioral Sciences & the Law·DateJun 9, 2020

Study finds another reason to wash hands: Flame retardants

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters found that halogenated flame retardants from old TVs can be transferred to hands, cell phones, and indoor air, posing a health risk. Frequent handwashing is essential to reduce exposure to these toxic chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 9, 2020

Parasitic fungi keep harmful blue-green algae in check

Researchers found that parasitic fungi infect cyanobacteria, reducing their growth and making them easier prey for small organisms. The fungi also serve as a food supplement for zooplankton, connecting different levels of aquatic food webs.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateJun 9, 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.

Nuclear medicine and COVID-19: New content from The Journal of Nuclear Medicine

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine in nuclear cardiology, enabling continued service during outbreaks. Nuclear medicine also offers potential for repurposing pharmaceuticals and developing new treatments targeting different aspects of the virus.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 9, 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.

23 years of water quality data from crop-livestock systems

Researchers analyzed 23 years of data on native tallgrass prairie and crop-livestock systems in Oklahoma, finding that cropping systems increased nitrogen and phosphorus levels. The study highlights the importance of long-term research in understanding land management impacts on water quality.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 9, 2020

High-salt diet impacts health of gut microbiome

A high-salt diet has been found to have a significant impact on the health of the gut microbiome and blood pressure in adults with untreated hypertension. In a six-week study, participants who reduced their sodium intake experienced increased levels of short-chain fatty acids and lower blood pressure.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJun 9, 2020

Accounting for nature in economies

Researchers developed a new metric called Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) to measure the value of nature's contributions to economic activity. GEP accounts for benefits like clean water and climate security, informing investments in securing them and evaluating policy performance.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 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.

Learning from history to fight against COVID-19

Researchers at the University of Missouri are studying the 1918 flu pandemic to identify similarities and differences with COVID-19. The study aims to provide valuable insights into the spread of infectious diseases, social circumstances, and socioeconomic conditions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJun 9, 2020

Armor on butterfly wings protects against heavy rain

A recent study reveals that micro-bumps on butterfly wings, combined with a nanoscale wax layer, shatter and spread raindrops to minimize damage. This natural defense mechanism reduces the impact force on delicate surfaces, protecting against physical harm and hypothermia risk.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Flight tests show B61-12 compatible with F-15E Strike Eagle

The B61-12's compatibility with the F-15E was successfully demonstrated through a series of flight tests. The tests showed that the refurbished bomb worked as expected, with precision accuracy and proper functionality, increasing confidence in its reliability. The results meet all requirements for performance and safety.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJun 9, 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.

The world is much more alike than different

A new study from UC Riverside asserts the world population may have much more in common than it has differences. The research, which included data from 15,318 members of university and college communities, found that people within countries are more similar than expected, while those across different countries exhibit smaller differences.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Personality·DateJun 9, 2020

Undersized airways may explain why nonsmokers get COPD

A new study found that people with small airways relative to their lungs' volume are at increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) regardless of smoking habits. Individuals with smaller airways had the poorest lung function and were 8 times more likely to develop COPD.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateJun 9, 2020

Unravelling complex brain networks with automated 3D neural mapping

KAIST researchers developed an algorithm for automated 3D brain imaging data analysis, enabling precise and quantitative mapping of complex neural circuits. The new technology allows for accurate comparison of brain data from different animals and improves the accuracy and consistency of analysis results.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 8, 2020

Discovering the prehistoric monuments of Arabia

Researchers have uncovered a 35-metre long triangular platform in northern Saudi Arabia, built in several phases between 6500 and 4500 BC. The discovery suggests that this monumental structure was used for ritual practices, including funerary and commemorative ceremonies.

SourceCNRS·JournalAntiquity·DateJun 8, 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.

Stroke bleeds in the brain not decreasing, Framingham study finds

A new analysis of the Framingham Heart Study found that brain bleeds called intracerebral hemorrhages remained stable in incidence among all age groups over the past 30 years. However, they increased in people 75 and older, with a threefold increase in seniors taking anticoagulants. The study suggests that thinners could be a factor, b...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 8, 2020

Marine energy devices likely pose minimal impacts to marine life, report shows

A new report by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory suggests that marine renewable energy devices are unlikely to cause harm to marine animals or environments. The study found that small numbers of operational devices may not significantly affect marine ecosystems, but further research is needed to confirm this.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJun 8, 2020

Integrating nanomaterial with light-absorbing molecule powers hydrogen production from water and sun

Researchers have developed a new photocatalyst that can generate hydrogen from water with high efficiency, using nanoscale metal oxide sheets and a ruthenium dye molecule. The material works under visible light, the main component of sunlight, and has a record-breaking turnover frequency and external quantum yield.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 8, 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.

Rate over time of stroke caused by brain bleeding

An observational study tracked stroke cases caused by intracerebral hemorrhage from 1948 to 2016. The rate of this deadly type of stroke decreased significantly during the 10-year period, contradicting previous findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 8, 2020

The impact of disclosure laws on prescription patterns from companies that pay them

Research in Massachusetts found that disclosure laws resulted in a decline of 31-56% in the prescription of certain branded medications and 25-33% in generic prescriptions. The study suggests that physicians may be more motivated to switch to generic alternatives due to self-monitoring.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJun 8, 2020

Researchers develop 3D-printable material that mimics biological tissues

Scientists at University of Colorado Denver create complex, porous lattice structure using liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) to mimic cartilage and other biological tissues. The material exhibits exceptional elasticity and dissipation capabilities, making it suitable for applications in football helmets and spinal implants.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 8, 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.

Scientists identify targets for COVID-19 vaccine using cancer immunotherapy tools

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a strategy to identify regions of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to target with a vaccine, employing cancer immunotherapies. They prioritize viral targets based on their ability to stimulate a lasting immune response, predicted to be in the vast majority of the human population.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJun 8, 2020

Johns Hopkins 'philosophy lab test' finds objective vision impossible

Researchers used cognitive science methods to test philosophical question: Can people see the world objectively? They found that people can't separate an object's true identity from their own perspective, even when certain it's round. This challenge our understanding of perception and the brain's role in shaping reality.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Red tape may have a silver lining for micro businesses -- new study

A new study from the University of Bath found that regulation can trigger significant benefits for micro firms, including new business opportunities and strategies. The research suggests that regulation can protect existing markets and ensure a level playing field across the industry.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalCompetition & Change·DateJun 8, 2020

Engaging in family meals starts with healthy family communication

Researchers found parents with better communication and lower discouragement were more likely to participate in family meals, leading to healthier habits. The study also highlighted the importance of open communication about children's weight without promoting unhealthy body image.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateJun 8, 2020

When cancer cells can't make their own fat, they eat more of it

A new study found that cancer cells adapt by gobbling up fat molecules from their environment when they can't make their own, potentially rendering treatments ineffective. The research identified a new gene, LUR1, involved in lipid uptake and suggests targeting this process could lead to more effective cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJun 8, 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.