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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 82


Page 82 of 512

Fossils reveal mammals mingled in age of dinosaurs

A new study reveals that mammals developed social behavior much earlier than previously thought, interacting with dinosaurs in tightly packed clusters. The fossils, which are about 75.5 million years old, show evidence of multiple mature adults and subadults congregating, indicating a complex social structure.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 2, 2020

A loan for lean season

Researchers found that small loans during the lean season led to higher quality of life, increased agricultural output, and greater wages. The study's results validated the importance of seasonal variability to rural farmers' livelihoods, highlighting the need for economic interventions that account for this factor.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateNov 2, 2020

Microfluidics helps MTU engineers watch viral infection in real time

Researchers used microfluidic devices to study the interaction between viruses and cell membranes, revealing high-resolution understanding of electric shifts happening at the surface. The technique showed that glycine can interrupt capsid formation for replicated viruses within the cell.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalLangmuir·DateNov 2, 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.

Light-modulated graphene-organic heterojunction transistors realizing photocurrent logic changes

Researchers have developed a graphene-organic heterojunction transistor that can modulate photocurrent speed, magnitude, and direction using light. The device utilizes the effective exciton thickness limitation of an intermediate organic transport layer to achieve logic reversal under optical modulation.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateNov 1, 2020

Rotation of a molecule as an "internal clock"

Researchers at the Heidelberg Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics have investigated ultrafast fragmentation of hydrogen molecules in intense laser fields using a new method. They used the rotation of the molecule as an internal clock to measure the timing of the reaction triggered by a second laser pulse.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 1, 2020

Sheer protection from electromagnetic radiation

A KAUST team has developed a printable ink with high conductivity and transparency for use in solar panels and novel electromagnetic wave blocking. The ink's performance was demonstrated in a frequency selective surface, showing decent reflection across multiple frequencies and polarization insensitive results.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNanotechnology·DateNov 1, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Machine learning that predicts anti-cancer drug efficacy

A research team at POSTECH developed a machine learning technique that uses transcriptome information from artificial organoids to predict anti-cancer drug response. This method increases predictive accuracy by selecting only relevant biomarkers, which was previously limited by false signals in conventional machine learning.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2020

Boosting the capacity of supercapacitors

Researchers at KAUST developed a new material that significantly improves the energy density of supercapacitors, enabling quick bursts of energy. The material uses covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with carefully selected molecular functional groups to overcome conductivity limitations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateNov 1, 2020

Beetle larvae think with a brain 'under construction'

Researchers at the University of Göttingen found that beetle larvae start using their brains before they are fully formed, defying conventional wisdom on insect intelligence. The study revealed that key parts of the brain's central complex are active in the larva, allowing it to orient itself in its environment.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 1, 2020

Neurosurgeons and malpractice suits

The survey found that spine surgery had the highest number of medical malpractice suits among neurosurgeons. Fear of lawsuits influences their practice, with defensive medicine being a common response. The study highlights the need for transparent communication, better informed consent forms, and fair compensation to patients.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalNeurosurgical FOCUS·DateNov 1, 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.

Skilled surgeons boost colon cancer survival by 70%

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that patients treated by highly skilled surgeons have better long-term survival after surgery for colon cancer. The study showed a 70% lower risk of dying over five years compared to patients with less skilled surgeons.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateOct 30, 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.

Dynamic photonic barcodes record energy transfer at the biointerface

Researchers developed bioresponsive dynamic barcodes using cavity-enhanced radiative energy transfer, converting biomolecular information into distinctive photonic barcodes. The system can detect molecules in a droplet with improved signal-to-noise ratio, enabling real-time intermolecular interaction and biosensing applications.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateOct 30, 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.

Phillips studying role-based norm violation response in human-robot teams

Researcher Elizabeth Phillips studies how humans respond to norm violations in robot teams, investigating context-sensitive tradeoffs between rule-based and role-based responses. She aims to develop models that facilitate role-based responses and promote ethical benefits in natural language generation algorithms.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 30, 2020

Bacilli and their enzymes show prospects for several applications

The study highlights the potential of microbial enzymes in addressing global challenges such as Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular therapy and biofilm-related infections. Bacillary proteases have been shown to exhibit fibrinolytic and thrombolytic properties, making them promising alternatives to existing drugs.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateOct 30, 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 cause of inflammation in people with HIV identified

A new study led by Boston Medical Center researchers identified the inability to control HIV RNA production from existing HIV DNA as a potential key driver of chronic inflammation in people living with HIV. This finding highlights the need for novel treatments targeting persistent inflammation to improve outcomes.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateOct 30, 2020

Radical changes in ecosystems

Scientists have developed a method to detect radical changes in ecosystems, revealing increased risk of extinction and new species creation. The method tracks ecosystem shifts above a certain threshold, allowing researchers to predict and mitigate the impact of environmental changes.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2020

Hospital floors are hotspot for bacteria, creating route of transfer to patients

A study found that hospital floors are quickly and frequently contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria within hours of patient admission. The researchers observed a significant transfer of pathogens from the floor to patients' socks, bedding, and nearby surfaces, highlighting the need for improved infection control measures.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateOct 30, 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.

Evolution of consumption: A psychological ownership framework

The study explores how technological innovations like digitization and platform markets are eroding psychological ownership, leading to negative consequences for consumers and firms. However, it also highlights opportunities for firms to preserve and recapture psychological ownership through strategic marketing efforts.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 30, 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.

Infection by confection: COVID-19 and the risk of trick-or-treating

Researchers analyzed viral load on Halloween candy handled by COVID-19 patients, finding SARS-CoV-2 on 60% of samples handled normally with unwashed hands. Washing hands before handling candy and washing the candy with household detergent significantly reduced the virus's presence.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalmSystems·DateOct 30, 2020

VUMC study finds faster, wider spread of COVID-19 in US households

A recent study found that COVID-19 spreads rapidly within US households, infecting 51% of individuals living with someone who tested positive. The study discovered that secondary infections occurred within five days of the first household member experiencing symptoms, highlighting the importance of quarantine measures.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateOct 30, 2020

The order of life

Researchers develop model that links movement of predators and prey to segregation of oil and vinegar, expanding theoretical framework from inanimate matter. The model reveals universal characteristics of active living matter, including bacteria, enzymes, and motor proteins.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review X·DateOct 30, 2020

First Australian night bees recorded foraging in darkness

Two Australian bee species have been identified as having adapted their vision for night-time conditions, allowing them to forage in darkness. The study found that these bees develop enlarged compound and simple eyes, enabling them to gather more light than their daytime counterparts.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Hymenoptera Research·DateOct 30, 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.

New drone technology improves ability to forecast volcanic eruptions

Researchers have developed a new drone technology that combines measurements from the air, earth and space to better understand highly active volcanoes. This allows for more accurate forecasting of future eruptions and provides insights into the global carbon cycle.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2020

Mobile smartphone technology is associated with better clinical outcomes for OHCA

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that mobile smartphone technology can improve out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survival. The 'Staying Alive' app, which alerts trained responders to nearby cardiac arrest victims, was found to reduce response times and potentially improve outcomes.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateOct 30, 2020

Smart tablecloth can find fruit and help with watering the plants

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a smart tablecloth that can detect non-metallic objects such as fruits and liquids using an 'implicit input' technique. The system achieved a 94.5% accuracy rate in testing, with notable success in distinguishing between different types of liquids and fruits.

SourceDartmouth College·DateOct 30, 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.

Photopharmacology - A light-trigger for the proteasome

Scientists have created a light-activated chemical inhibitor that can control two fundamental cellular processes: cell division and cell death. This innovation has significant implications for studying cellular functions, understanding medical disorders, and designing new therapeutic strategies.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 30, 2020

New fault zone measurements could help us to understand subduction earthquake

Researchers measured rocks formed by seismic slips in central Japan's subduction zone to identify conditions leading to earthquake faulting. This study provides insights into the thermal fracturing process, which could contribute to generating frictional melt and accelerating seismic slip.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateOct 30, 2020

To survive asteroid impact, algae learned to hunt

Scientists discovered that surviving algae adapted a unique behavior called mixotrophy, allowing them to thrive in the aftermath of an asteroid impact. This adaptation enabled them to eat other organisms while still utilizing photosynthesis to produce food.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 2020

Denisovan DNA found in sediments of Baishiya Karst Cave on Tibetan Plateau

Researchers discovered Denisovan DNA in sediments from the Baishiya Karst Cave on the Tibetan Plateau, revealing that Denisovans occupied the region for a long time and had adapted to the high-altitude environment. The findings support the idea that Denisovans had a wide geographic distribution beyond Siberia.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2020
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.

Coronavirus mutation may have made it more contagious

A study of over 5,000 COVID-19 patients in Houston found that the virus is accumulating genetic mutations, one of which, D614G, may have made it more contagious. This mutation was prevalent in 71% of initial cases and reached 99.9% prevalence during the second wave.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalmBio·DateOct 30, 2020

Collective impact partnership models help close health care workforce gap

The research evaluated effective health sciences and training programs in Career and Technical Education (CTE) to address the healthcare workforce shortage in Virginia. Effective partnership models stimulate growth by building community partnerships, expanding training programs, and providing resources for educators and students.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 30, 2020

Water on ancient Mars

Analysis of a Martian meteorite suggests water was present on ancient Mars around 4.4 billion years ago, raising questions about the origin of water on Earth and potential for life beyond. The finding could impact theories on planetary formation and exploration.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 30, 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.

A malformation illustrates the incredible plasticity of the brain

Researchers from UNIGE discovered that when the neuronal fibres connecting the hemispheres are missing, the brain reorganises itself and creates new connections. Intra-hemispheric connections increase, enabling communication between the two hemispheres to be maintained.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateOct 30, 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.

SARS-CoV-2 might attack red marrow and block new erythrocytes formation

Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 attacks red marrow, damaging endothelium and regulating cell migration. This can lead to loss of functional cells, organ failure, and increased risk of secondary infections. The study analyzed lung samples from 79 patients who died from COVID-19.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalArchiv Euromedica·DateOct 30, 2020

Melding biology and physical sciences yields deeper understanding of cancer

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified four distinct physical properties of cancer, including elevated solid stress and increased stiffness, which contribute to its sustained growth and destructive power. These findings point to new research opportunities and treatment approaches.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience·DateOct 30, 2020