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Science News for December 2, 2020


Study finds 10 metabolites associated with risk of stroke

Researchers identified 10 metabolites associated with the risk of stroke, including a lower risk for ischemic stroke and higher risk for hemorrhagic stroke. Histidine and high-density lipoprotein cholesterols were found to have protective effects, while pyruvate increased the risk of ischemic stroke.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 2, 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.

RUDN University professor suggested how to clean up space debris

A RUDN University professor suggested using a spacecraft-collector to remove space debris from lower orbits, which requires more complex equipment. For geostationary orbits, a tow-based approach is proposed, where the collector transports debris objects into the disposal orbit.

SourceRUDN University·JournalAdvances in Space Research·DateDec 2, 2020

Sensor can detect scarred or fatty liver tissue

A new diagnostic tool has been developed by MIT engineers to detect both fatty liver disease and fibrosis, which can lead to liver failure. The sensor uses nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology to measure water diffusion in tissue, revealing the presence of fatty or scarred tissue with high accuracy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 2, 2020

Supernova surprise creates elemental mystery

A team of scientists from Michigan State University discovered that supernovae can forge carbon atoms over 10 times faster than previously thought. This finding challenges existing theories about the creation of Earth's heavy elements, particularly ruthenium and molybdenum isotopes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 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.

A hint of new physics in polarized radiation from the early universe

A new method to measure polarization angle developed, achieving precision twice that of previous work. A hint of parity symmetry violation found in the cosmic microwave background radiation with 99.2% confidence level.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 2, 2020

Carbon dioxide converted to ethylene -- the 'rice of the industry'

A Korean research team has made a breakthrough in understanding the electrochemical conversion of CO2 to ethylene, a challenging process that could produce high-value-added chemicals. The study identified key intermediates and proposed copper hydroxide nanowire as a promising catalyst for enhancing selectivity.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateDec 2, 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.

Unmet job expectations linked to a rise in suicide, deaths of despair

Researchers found that men who expected to work in jobs without a college degree but faced declines in the job market were nearly three times as likely to suffer early deaths by suicide and drug poisoning. The study suggests closed pathways to sustaining working-class jobs contribute to increased rates of suicide and drug-poisoning mor...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 2, 2020

Drinking blocks a chemical that promotes attention

Scientists at UT Health San Antonio found that acute exposure to alcohol inhibits norepinephrine release, a chemical that activates vigilance-dependent astrocyte calcium activation. This leads to impaired attention and motor coordination, contradicting the cerebellum's role in motor control.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2020

Cell membranes in super resolution

Scientists have created a method to expand lipids in cell membranes, enabling the imaging of proteins and organelles with unprecedented resolution. This breakthrough allows for detailed insights into bacterial infection mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2020

Oddly satisfying metamaterials store energy in their skin

Purdue University scientists have created a patterned sheet of domes that can store energy in its skin, enabling strong mechanical tasks and programmable data processing. The technology has potential applications in flexible robotics and mechanical computing, where energy storage and efficient processing are crucial.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 2, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Discrimination on social media results in higher depression, anxiety among minority males

A study by Florida International University researchers found that young Hispanic males who experienced ethnic discrimination on social media had higher levels of depression and anxiety. The study's lead author noted that the impact may be due to increased exposure to discriminatory content specifically targeting men, threatening their...

SourceFlorida International University·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology·DateDec 2, 2020

To increase organs available for transplant, reassess organ procurement organizations' metrics

Researchers analyzed national organ transplant data from 2008 to 2017 and found a wide variation in organ procurement organizations' efficiency. They proposed three new metrics that would give a more accurate and equitable representation of performance, highlighting the need for improved evaluation of the organ donation system.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 2, 2020

Living with autonomous systems "we can trust"

A new report emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary approaches to develop safer autonomous systems, engaging experts from humanities, social sciences, and engineering. The report recommends creating a network of institutes to share ideas and concerns, ultimately developing a regulatory framework.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateDec 2, 2020

No nanoparticle risks to humans found in field tests of spray sunscreens

A Penn State research team conducted field tests on three commonly used mineral-based aerosol sunscreens, finding trace nanoparticles but at safe levels. The study suggests that the canister design and active ingredients are unlikely to produce vastly different amounts of nanoparticles.

SourcePenn State·JournalAerosol Science and Technology·DateDec 2, 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.

Active camouflage artificial skin in visible-to-infrared range

A Seoul National University team developed a soft thermoelectric device capable of active cooling and heating, allowing for thermal camouflage in both visible and infrared spectrums. The device incorporates thermochromic liquid crystal to control light reflectance, enabling various colors to be expressed by adjusting temperature.

SourceSeoul National University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 2, 2020

What social distancing does to a brain

Researchers found a brain molecule called Pth2 that changes expression levels in response to social conditions. When zebrafish are isolated, Pth2 disappears, but its levels rapidly rise when they're added back into a group, indicating a 'thermometer' effect.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2020

New machine learning tool tracks urban traffic congestion

A new machine learning algorithm, TranSEC, uses traffic datasets from UBER drivers and publicly available sensor data to map street-level traffic flow over time. This creates a big picture of city traffic, allowing for near-real-time analysis and predictive modeling.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateDec 2, 2020

Social, behavioral modifications can be positive trigger to mitigating gun violence

Researchers found that active shooter drills can cause emotional distress and uncertainty among students, highlighting the need for evidence-based strategies. Social-emotional learning programs and a safe, supportive environment are key to reducing gun violence in schools, according to West Virginia University Professor Keith Zullig.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 2, 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.

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.

Xenophobic and racist policies in the US may have harmful effect on birth outcomes

Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health finds a 7% increase in preterm birth rates among women from MENA countries impacted by the 2017 travel ban. Anti-immigrant and Islamophobic policies are associated with detrimental shifts in health outcomes for pregnant women and infants.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateDec 2, 2020

'Message in a bottle' tracks plastic pollution

Researchers from the University of Exeter and ZSL used GPS and satellite tags in plastic bottles to track plastic pollution in the Ganges river and Bay of Bengal. The study found that plastic pollution can travel thousands of kilometers in just a few months, with some bottles traveling up to 2,845km in 94 days.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2020

Nanomaterials enable dual-mode heating and cooling device

Researchers at Duke University have developed a novel thermal contact system that can switch between heating and cooling modes. The device uses specially designed nanoscale materials to harness or expel specific wavelengths of light, reducing energy consumption by nearly 20% in the US.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 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.

Natural three-dimensional nonlinear photonic crystal

Scientists have developed a natural potassium-tantalate-niobate (KTN) perovskite nonlinear photonic crystal with 3D spontaneous Rubik's domain structures, enabling compensation of phase-mismatch along arbitrary directions. This breakthrough paves the way for new applications in optical communications, quantum entanglement sources, and ...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateDec 2, 2020

AI abdominal fat measure predicts heart attack and stroke

A study using AI to analyze abdominal CT images found that visceral fat area is independently associated with future heart attacks and strokes. The analysis, which outperformed traditional BMI measures, may lead to more accurate cardiovascular risk assessments.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateDec 2, 2020

Personality changes predict early career outcomes

A 12-year longitudinal study found that young people who develop higher levels of conscientiousness and emotional stability tend to be more successful in their early careers. The study's findings suggest that personality growth can have real-world benefits for career outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 2, 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.

CZI awards nearly $32 million to advance biomedical imaging

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) has awarded nearly $32 million in funding to support biomedical imaging researchers and technology development. The grants will focus on visualizing proteins in cells at near-atomic resolution to better understand health and disease.

SourceChan Zuckerberg Initiative·DateDec 2, 2020

Once in a lifetime floods to become regular occurrences by end of century

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology predict that 100-year and 500-year flood levels will become regular occurrences in Jamaica Bay, New York by the end of the century. Climate change is expected to lead to more intense and frequent storms, causing greater flooding even if storm intensity remains the same.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalClimatic Change·DateDec 2, 2020

New butterfly-inspired hydrogen sensor is powered by light

Researchers developed a light-activated hydrogen sensor inspired by butterfly wings, offering precision results at room temperature. The sensor can detect tiny amounts of hydrogen in people's breath and measure concentrations across a full range.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Sensors·DateDec 2, 2020

Optimal horse racing speed pinpointed by mathematical analysis

Mathematical analysis reveals optimal Thoroughbred horse racing speed by analyzing track data and considering factors such as course length, surface type, and weather conditions. The study provides insights into the physical limitations of horses and the importance of course-specific factors in determining optimal speed.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 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.

Science snapshots from Berkeley Lab

Berkeley Lab researchers have developed a machine learning model that can design structures with desired optical properties, speeding up the process by at least two to three orders of magnitude. The CUORE experiment has collected a record-breaking dataset for a 'neutrinoless' experiment, surpassing previous experiments by about 10 times.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateDec 2, 2020

The making of mysterious mazes: how animals got their complex colorations

A study published in Science Advances found that complex animal colorations can evolve through a simple mechanism: pattern blending by hybridization. This hypothesis is supported by an analysis of over 18,000 fish species, revealing strong associations between intricate maze-like patterns and simple spot patterns.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2020

New microscope technique reveals details of droplet nucleation

A new microscopy technique allows direct observation of droplet nucleation, enabling precise mathematical descriptions of the process. The technique improves contrast and resolution, revealing a different relationship between site density and nearest-neighbor function.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateDec 2, 2020

Understanding quality of life for caregivers of persons with traumatic brain injury

A new special edition of Rehabilitation Psychology examines the diverse ways caring for an individual with TBI impacts well-being, including family life, mood, physical health, sleep and social relationships. A unique tool called the TBI-CareQOL Measurement System helps standardize measures for quality of life in caregivers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·DateDec 2, 2020
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.

Kidney disease leading risk factor for COVID-related hospitalization

A recent analysis of Geisinger Health System's electronic health records reveals chronic kidney disease as the leading risk factor for COVID-19-related hospitalization. The study found that patients with end-stage renal disease were 11 times more likely to be admitted to the hospital compared to those without kidney disease.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2020

Major depressive disorder may be defined by a distinct gut microbiome

Researchers identified distinct gut microbiome signatures in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD), including higher levels of Bacteroides and lower levels of Blautia. A biomarker-based diagnostic tool may help physicians diagnose MDD, providing a companion to clinical interviews.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2020

Common neural circuit and potential target for anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder

A glutamatergic neuronal circuit from the prelimbic prefrontal cortex to the nucleus accumbens is responsible for co-occurring anxiety and obsessive-compulsive-like behaviors. Histamine presynaptic H3 receptor activation in this circuit ameliorates stress-induced anxiety and obsessive-compulsive-like behaviors.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 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.

Visualisation reveals how a protein 'hunkers down' to conserve energy

A team of scientists has developed a visualization technique that reveals the intricate mechanism by which a key protein involved in muscle activity shuts itself down to conserve energy. This discovery provides new insights into how genetic mutations in this protein can lead to various diseases.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 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.

Operations on screen: Creating an accessible surgery simulator

A UOC project has developed a 3D virtual environment to train surgeons' psychomotor skills, providing real-time feedback and metrics. The tool has been tested with over 148 users, showing its validity in improving surgeons' performance at different stages of their careers.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalJMIR Serious Games·DateDec 2, 2020

Drug attenuates weight gain in animals fed a high-fat diet

A new drug, originally developed to treat bacterial infections, has shown the capacity to increase cell energy expenditure and reduce weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. The treatment works by reprogramming white adipose tissue cells to behave like brown adipose tissue, burning calories to generate heat.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 2, 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.

Reconstruction of eye tissue gives new insight into outer retina

Scientists at the University of Southampton have made a breakthrough in reconstructing eye tissues from the outer retina using serial block face scanning electron microscopy. The study provides a clear picture of the 3D organisation of the retinal pigment epithelium, which could help understand causes of damage leading to sight loss.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateDec 2, 2020

Impactful science teaching requires minimum five hours instruction weekly

A study by University of Vermont researcher Tammy Kolbe found that inquiry-based science teaching requires minimum five hours instruction weekly to use recommended learning practices. Only one-third of eighth-grade students receive at least 5 hours of science instruction each week.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateDec 2, 2020

This 3D printer doesn't gloss over the details

Researchers developed a combined hardware and software printing system that uses off-the-shelf varnishes to finish objects with realistic, spatially varying gloss patterns. The technology has potential applications in fine art reproduction and prosthetic design, offering near-flawless replicas and more realistic-looking prosthetics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 2, 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.

African trade routes sketched out by mediaeval beads

Researchers from Université de Genève analyzed 16 glass beads found in Mali and Senegal, discovering they were made of Egyptian, Levantine coast, and Middle Eastern glass. The study sheds light on sub-Saharan Africa's extensive trade networks with Europe and Asia during the region's early development.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2020

New glue sticks easily, holds strongly, and is a gas to pull apart

Researchers at Dartmouth College have discovered a class of molecular materials that can be used to make temporary adhesives that don't require force for removal. These non-permanent glues offer expanded design strategies for bonding surfaces together and can lead to new manufacturing techniques and pharmaceutical design.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateDec 2, 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.

CNIC scientists identify a new diagnostic and therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease

Researchers at CNIC have identified mitochondrial protein ALDH4A1 as a potential marker for cardiovascular disease diagnosis and a possible therapeutic target. The study found that ALDH4A1 accumulates in plaques and its plasma concentration is elevated in patients with carotid atherosclerosis, suggesting it as a biomarker.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2020

Rethinking race and kidney function

A new study from Harvard Medical School forecasts the impact of eliminating race from kidney function formulas on Black patients with kidney disease. The analysis suggests that removing race-based adjustments may lead to earlier diagnoses and better access to care, but also restricts access to certain medications and treatments.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·DateDec 2, 2020

NASA interns extending internetworking off-world

A cohort of NASA interns developed network protocols for Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN), enabling flexible communication in space and remote areas. DTN will revolutionize space communications, empowering NASA to establish a sustained presence on the Moon.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 2, 2020

What's killing killer whales?

A decade-long analysis of necropsies reveals that killer whales are vulnerable to multiple human-caused deaths, affecting all age classes. The study underscores the need for improved conservation strategies and mitigation efforts to protect these endangered species.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2020

Greenland ice sheet faces irreversible melting

A new study warns that the Greenland ice sheet will experience irreversible melting if global warming exceeds 2°C, leading to significant sea-level rise and permanent changes. The ice sheet's decline could be reversed with actions to counteract global warming before it's too late.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateDec 2, 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.

Why does it matter if most Republican voters still think Biden lost?

A recent survey by Bright Line Watch found that fewer than a third of Republican voters have confidence in the national vote count, with nearly half expecting Donald Trump to be inaugurated for a second term. The study highlights the persistence of partisan divisions and mistrust in election results among Trump supporters.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateDec 2, 2020

Less COVID-19 transmission seen in countries with more intense testing

A study of 173 countries found that increased testing intensity reduced COVID-19 transmission by 9%. Testing had the greatest influence among interventions, with a tenfold increase in tests to new cases reported reducing transmission. This explains why some countries, like China and Australia, achieved near elimination of COVID-19.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 2, 2020

Best region for life on Mars was far below surface

A Rutgers-led study suggests the most habitable region for life on Mars would be up to several miles below its surface due to subsurface melting of thick ice sheets. Liquid water may have been stable at great depths, allowing life to thrive through hydrothermal activity and rock-water reactions.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2020

Peeking into the pods of black soybeans

Researchers at Nagoya University have identified a new compound responsible for the synthesis of anthocyanin pigment in black soybeans, shedding light on the biosynthetic pathway and potential applications for treating metabolic diseases. The study aims to clarify the full steps of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside synthesis in black soybeans.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 2, 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.

Flightless birds more common globally before human-driven extinctions

A study led by UCL researchers found that flightlessness evolved in birds at least four times as often as expected. With 166 extinct species lacking flying ability, the findings show how human-driven extinctions have biased our understanding of evolution, altering most ecosystems worldwide.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2020

Birth defects linked to greater risk of cancer in later life

A study published in The BMJ found that people born with major birth defects face a higher risk of cancer throughout life. The relative risk is greatest in childhood, but the risk persists into adulthood. Major birth defects are associated with an increased risk of various types of cancer, including leukemia.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 2, 2020

Healthy muscles are a carrot on a string for healthy lungs

Researchers found that Ninjin'yoeito enhanced PGC-1α expression in skeletal muscle, improving muscle mass loss in aging mice. This study suggests a potential treatment for COPD patients with severe sarcopenia frailty.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalInternational Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease·DateDec 2, 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.

Combined exercise, mindfulness training may help reduce fatigue in cancer survivors

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have found that combining exercise and mindfulness training can significantly reduce fatigue in breast cancer survivors. The study used a feasibility trial with 40 women, who reported a drop in fatigue levels after participating in a combination of both interventions.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateDec 2, 2020

What's killing killer whales?

A decade-long study of killer whale necropsies reveals widespread mortality linked to human activities, affecting all age classes. Human-caused deaths were found in healthy populations as well as endangered species, emphasizing the need for improved conservation strategies.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 2, 2020

Research suggests our galaxy's brightest gamma-ray binary system may be powered by a magnetar star

A team of researchers has analyzed data to infer the nature of compact object orbiting within LS 5039, the brightest gamma-ray binary system in the Galaxy. The team suggests that particle acceleration process is caused by interactions between dense stellar winds and ultra-strong magnetic fields of a rotating magnetar.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 2, 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.

Chaotic early solar system collisions resembled 'asteroids' arcade game

A new analysis of Peekskill meteorites and others suggests that asteroids formed through violent bombardment and subsequent reassembly. This finding challenges the prevailing idea of a peaceful early solar system. The researchers propose the 'rubble pile hypothesis,' which supports this conclusion.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateDec 2, 2020

Brexit opens the door to tougher anti-smoking measures

A new study suggests that a no-deal Brexit could raise cigarette and tobacco prices in the UK, making it easier to implement effective tobacco control measures. The research also highlights the potential benefits of Brexit for tackling smoking, including reduced smuggling and increased revenue for the government.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateDec 2, 2020

LGB adults may be less likely to take statins to prevent heart disease

A new study found that LGB adults are less likely to take cholesterol-lowering medicines, known as statins, to prevent cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that LGB individuals may be unaware of their cardiovascular disease risk and the protective effect of statins due to lower healthcare access and awareness.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateDec 2, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Keeping California a powerhouse of almond production

Almond trees have unique needs and challenges for farmers, but researchers are finding ways to balance nutrient inputs with environmental quality. Conservation practices like nutrient budgeting and fertigation can help achieve this balance.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateDec 2, 2020

Protein molecules in cells function as miniature antennas

Researchers discovered that fluorescent proteins behave like miniature antennas, absorbing and emitting light in specific directions. This finding has significant applications in basic biological research and novel drug discovery.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 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.

Anti-doping education: Teaching athletes about morality in sport can help reduce doping

Researchers developed two intervention programmes targeting moral factors and educating young elite athletes about the risks of performance-enhancing drugs. Both approaches were equally effective at deterring doping over a six-month period. The 'moral' programme focused on honesty, fair play, and the consequences of doping, while the '...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Sport and Exercise Psychology·DateDec 2, 2020

When the rains stopped

Archaeologists study how climate shift affected Greater Cahokia's bio-cultural associations and societal changes. Evapotranspiration played a critical role in determining urbanism progression, particularly through Steam Bath Ceremonialism.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Anthropological Research·DateDec 2, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

No poaching occurring within most Channel Islands marine protected areas

A new study by Oregon State University researcher Will White found that most Channel Islands marine protected areas have no poaching and fish populations are thriving. Harvest rates were essentially at zero for four species of kelp forest fish inside the protected areas between 2003 and 2017.

SourceOregon State University·JournalConservation Letters·DateDec 2, 2020

Researchers determine how the SARS-CoV-2 virus hijacks and rapidly causes damage to human lung cells

The study reveals that the SARS-CoV-2 virus rapidly causes damage to human lung cells by exploiting core resources and inducing abnormal changes in protein abundance and phosphorylation. The researchers also identified 18 pre-existing clinically approved drugs that can be potentially re-purposed for COVID-19 therapy.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·DateDec 2, 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.

What was life for dinosaurs like in Europe?

The graphic novel 'Europasaurus - Life on Jurassic Islands' provides a realistic look at the life of this dwarfed giant dinosaur and other prehistoric creatures. The book contains scientifically accurate information about the Mesozoic era, verified by international experts.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·DateDec 2, 2020

Scientists invent a new type of microscope that can see through an intact skull

A team of researchers developed a novel microscope that can image through an intact mouse skull, resolving fine internal structures deep within living tissues. The reflection matrix microscope combines hardware and software-based adaptive optics to reconstruct object images without loss of spatial resolution.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 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.

Study shows promising material can store solar energy for months or years

Researchers at Lancaster University have discovered a crystalline material that can capture and store solar energy for several months at room temperature. The energy is released on demand as heat, providing a promising solution for renewable heating systems and environmentally-friendly applications.

SourceLancaster University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateDec 2, 2020

SMART researchers develop plant nanobionic sensor to monitor arsenic levels in soil

Scientists from SMART DiSTAP have engineered a novel type of plant nanobionic optical sensor that can detect and monitor arsenic levels in the belowground environment. This non-destructive approach enables plants to serve as self-powered detectors of arsenic, marking a significant upgrade over conventional methods.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 2, 2020

Continents prone to destruction in their infancy, study finds

The study reveals that the release of internal primordial heat caused large melting in the shallow mantle, extruding magma onto the Earth's surface. This led to the formation of keels of the first continents and made them weak and prone to destruction. The process resulted in the emergence of life on Earth.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·DateDec 2, 2020