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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 19


Page 19 of 39

The farthest galaxy in the universe

Astronomers use a novel spectrograph to measure the redshift of GN-z11, a ancient galaxy located 13.4 billion light years away, marking it as the farthest detectable galaxy in the universe. The team's precise measurement improves the accuracy of the galaxy's distance by a factor of 100.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 14, 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.

Social media use increases belief in COVID-19 misinformation

A recent survey analysis found that people relying on social media for news are more likely to believe COVID-19 misinformation. Having faith in scientists and discussion heterogeneity weaken such beliefs. The study suggests practical solutions like fact checkers and exposure to different ideas can disrupt the spread of misinformation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalTelematics and Informatics·DateDec 14, 2020

Point of Care testing can improve the detection and treatment of influenza

Implementing point-of-care testing in hospitals can lead to faster diagnosis, better treatment, and improved recovery for patients with acute respiratory symptoms. The study found that routine molecular POCT for influenza resulted in increased antiviral use, isolation facility use, and reduced mortality rates.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·DateDec 14, 2020

New dinosaur showed descendants how to dress to impress

The newly discovered dinosaur, Ubirajara jubatus, boasts long fur down its back and stiff ribbons projecting from its shoulders. Its unique features suggest that it may have used these to attract mates or intimidate rivals.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateDec 14, 2020

America's crop cousins are numerous, imperiled, and more needed than ever

A new study highlights the plight of US crop wild relatives, many of which are endangered or underrepresented in conservation repositories. The plants, including those related to apples, hops, and sunflowers, have characteristics that can be used to breed hardier crops.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 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.

Not so fast!: controlling the speed of light bullets

Osaka University researchers created light bullets with controllable velocities, opening up opportunities for free-space communication, bio-imaging, and particle acceleration. By deforming pulse-fronts, they can achieve variable velocities during a single propagation path.

SourceOsaka University·DateDec 14, 2020

Applying compost to landfills could have environmental benefits

A new study from North Carolina State University found that using compost as daily cover at landfills can have significant environmental benefits, including reducing eutrophication and acidification. In contrast, using compost to amend soil can be more effective in reducing abiotic resource depletion potential.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 14, 2020

An unexpected role for the brain's immune cells

Researchers found that microglial surveillance helps maintain normal neuronal activity levels by preventing overactive neurons. This discovery opens new avenues for treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and autism.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 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.

What makes peppers blush

Researchers discovered that peppers undergo a transformation from chlorophyll-rich chloroplasts to carotenoid-rich chromoplasts as they ripen. This process differs from tomatoes, which continue to ripen after harvesting due to an increased respiratory activity.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateDec 14, 2020

Shedding light on the dark side of biomass burning pollution

Researchers discover new nocturnal process in forming oxidized aerosol from biomass burning, leading to underestimation of pollutant levels. The findings highlight the importance of considering nighttime oxidation in air quality models.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An LED that can be integrated directly into computer chips

Researchers at MIT have developed a silicon chip with fully integrated LEDs, enabling state-of-the-art sensor and communication technologies. The advance could lead to cheaper manufacturing, improved performance, and increased efficiency in nanoscale electronics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 14, 2020

High-rate Li-ion batteries demonstrate superior safety

Researchers from University of Warwick investigated high-rate cycling on Lithium Iron Phosphate Cylindrical Cells, discovering increased current capabilities of up to 4.4 times manufacturer's claims. Thermal fatigue was identified as the driving mechanism for jelly roll deformation, which can be mitigated with convection cooling.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBatteries·DateDec 14, 2020

The power of validation in helping people stay positive

A new study from Ohio State University found that validating someone's negative emotions can help foster a positive outlook. Participants who were validated showed protected and sustained positive emotions, while those who were invalidated experienced declines in positivity.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateDec 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.

The uncharted molecular language of the brain

A new study has created the most complete annotated resource of proteins present in synapses, which could aid in early diagnosis and specific drug targets for brain diseases. Researchers identified 1466 synaptic vesicle proteins, many of which were previously unknown, and found that lower-abundance proteins often have crucial functions.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020

Researchers reveal how our brains know when something's different

Researchers discovered how our brains use high frequency brain waves to compare past and present experiences, setting expectations for the future. The study used epilepsy patients and found that the brain replays neural activity patterns when recognizing changes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 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.

Does sharing health data help maintain weight loss?

A Drexel University study found that health counselors with access to self-monitored health data helped participants maintain weight loss. The study involved 87 adult participants who shared their daily activity, food intake, and weight using wearable devices and smartphone apps.

SourceDrexel University·JournalObesity·DateDec 14, 2020

ACM publishes inaugural issue of Transactions on Quantum Computing

The Association for Computing Machinery has published the first issue of its new peer-reviewed journal, Transactions on Quantum Computing, focusing on the theory and practice of quantum computing. The journal aims to publish high-impact research papers and surveys on topics in quantum information science.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·JournalACM Transactions on Quantum Computing·DateDec 14, 2020

Biomarkers could help predict severe SARS-CoV-2 infection

Researchers discovered biomarkers associated with COVID-19 immunopathology and multi-organ damage, enabling early identification of patients at risk of severe symptoms. The study's findings have potential for developing prognostic classification models to target treatments accordingly.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateDec 14, 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.

Quantum interference in time

Nicolas Cerf and Michael Jabbour identify a new form of quantum interference that occurs through time, using an optical amplifier to produce identical photons. This phenomenon challenges our classical understanding of space-based interference.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020

COVID-19: indoor air in hospitals and nursing homes require more attention

Researchers recommend measures to reduce SARS-CoV-2 aerosol dispersal, including regular ventilation, humidifiers to maintain relative humidity of 40-60%, and portable air purifiers. The risk is high due to infected & healthy people staying in the same room for long periods.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateDec 14, 2020

Nanoengineered cement shows promise for sealing leaky gas wells

Researchers at Penn State have developed a nanomaterial cement mixture that can effectively seal leaky natural gas wells, reducing methane emissions. The new cement is more resistant to cracking and can be pumped through narrow spaces, making it suitable for use in active unconventional wells and orphaned abandoned gas wells.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateDec 14, 2020

Critical temperature for tropical tree lifespan revealed

Research finds that tropical trees' lifespans decrease above 25 C, with implications for animal habitats, air quality, and carbon stocks. The study suggests that global warming will exacerbate tree mortality, affecting biodiversity and CO2 emissions.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 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.

Moffitt program bringing patients, scientists together infuses new meaning into research

The Patient Researcher Forum allows patients and researchers to learn from each other, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The program has a positive impact on perspectives of both parties, with patients gaining insight into the importance of cancer research and researchers becoming more patient-centered in their work.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalTranslational Research·DateDec 14, 2020

The moon controls the release of methane in Arctic Ocean

Scientists have discovered a link between the moon's tidal forces and methane release in the Arctic Ocean. The study found that changes in pressure during tidal cycles can increase gas emissions from the seafloor, potentially leading to underestimated gas emissions. High tides tend to reduce emissions, while low tides increase them.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 2020

UMaine-led research group find that trees are out of equilibrium with climate

A University of Maine-led research team studied hundreds of North American tree species and found that only 50% of their potential climatic habitats are actually inhabited. This suggests that trees may struggle to keep pace with climate change, highlighting the need for more sophisticated predictive tools for conservation.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateDec 14, 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.

Industrial waste is reused to produce alternatives to plastic

Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a biodegradable film for food packaging made from bacterial cellulose scraps and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. The product outperforms traditional films, with improved mechanical strength and reduced water vapor permeability.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 14, 2020

High-brightness source of coherent light spanning from the UV to THz

Researchers have created a compact, high-brightness mid-IR-driven source combining a gas-filled anti-resonant-ring photonic crystal fiber with a novel nonlinear-crystal. The table top source provides a seven-octave coherent spectrum from 340 nm to 40,000 nm, outshining brightest Synchrotron facilities in spectral brightness.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateDec 14, 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.

Chronic stress? Zebrafish to the rescue

Researchers used zebrafish to study the effects of chronic stress, finding that it can lead to anxiety-like conditions and serotonin metabolism deficits. The study suggests that zebrafish can be a valuable translational model for researching complex neurobiological conditions.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 14, 2020

Physics discovery leads to ballistic optical materials

Researchers discovered a way to create more efficient metamaterials using semiconductors and a novel aspect of physics that amplifies the activity of electrons. This breakthrough has the potential to increase resolution in medical scanning and scientific imaging, as well as reduce the size of supercomputers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalOptica·DateDec 14, 2020

Mindfulness meditation may decrease impact of migraine

A recent clinical trial found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) reduced migraine frequency and severity in adults with a history of migraine. MBSR improved quality of life, depression scores, and measures of emotional well-being compared to headache education.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 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.

Efforts to combat COVID-19 perceived as morally right

New research finds that people tend to moralize COVID-19-control efforts, overlooking associated costs. The level of support differs between liberals and conservatives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateDec 14, 2020

Tracking global soil salinity

A study analyzing 40 years of topsoil data finds that approximately 11.73 million square kilometers of land were affected by salt accumulation between 1980 and 2018. The likelihood of reoccurring salt-affected soils decreased globally, but certain regions like Brazil and Peru experienced increased soil salinity.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2020

Powerhouse plants that bolster the food web

A new study by University of Delaware Professor Doug Tallamy identifies the most critical plants needed to sustain food webs across the United States. These powerhouse plants, including oaks, willows, and goldenrod, support insects that are essential for energy transfer and soil decomposition.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature·DateDec 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.

When chemistry with green light mimics what happens in life

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology and Ghent University have developed a green light-stabilised 3D polymer structure that folds itself when exposed to light and unfolds when left in the dark. This process consumes light as fuel, mimicking the way proteins function in living organisms.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 13, 2020

No association between COVID-19 and Guillain-Barré syndrome

Researchers investigated COVID-19 and Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition. The study found no significant association between the two conditions, contradicting previous small case series. The researchers conclude that COVID-19 vaccination is unlikely to cause GBS.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBrain·DateDec 13, 2020

'Boss' genes could save human hearts - and the reef

Researchers have discovered rare decision-making genes that control cell responses, potentially helping to prevent diseases such as heart attacks and organ failure. This new knowledge can also be applied to understand how aquatic animals respond to global warming and improve human health, agriculture, ecology, and marine biology.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Systems·DateDec 13, 2020

Mangroves lock away carbon

Red Sea mangroves have been found to be capable of removing more carbon from the atmosphere through the dissolution of calcium carbonate. The study highlights the importance of considering calcium carbonate dissolution in mangrove ecosystems as a significant carbon storage mechanism.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateDec 13, 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.