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Science News Archive February 2020


Page 34 of 40

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fruit flies respond to rapid changes in the visual environment

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University discovered a mechanism employed by fruit flies to broaden our understanding of visual perception. The team found that L3 neurons, sensitive to brightness, are active in low-light conditions and play a crucial role in detecting sudden changes in luminance.

Helping discover the diversity in soil

The new metadata-database helps researchers incorporate data on terrestrial microbiological communities into their work, making it easier to compare findings and avoid repeating experiments. With 15,022 metagenome datasets from forests or grasslands, the database enables global-scale analyses of microbiological communities.

Induced flaws in metamaterials can produce useful textures and behavior

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered how induced defects in metamaterials produce radically different consistencies and behaviors. The study has far-reaching applications, including protecting fragile components in car crashes and manipulating distant objects using minimally invasive surgery.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Resting heart rate becomes vital sign of the digital age

A study by Scripps Research Institute found that resting heart rates vary widely between individuals, with norms differing by up to 70 beats per minute. Despite this variability, rest heart rate remains relatively consistent over time, holding potential for early detection of health changes.

Lasers etch a 'perfect' solar energy absorber

Scientists at the University of Rochester develop a new material that selectively absorbs light only at solar wavelengths, increasing efficiency by 130%. This innovation enhances solar power generation and has potential applications for thermal energy harvesting devices.

Characterizing RNA alterations in cancer

The study analyzed data from over 1000 donors of more than 25 cancer types, studying whole genomes and tumour transcriptome data. Researchers identified diverse mechanisms of cancer genome alterations, including gene fusions, which can be used for disease diagnosis.

Proposed hydropower dams pose threat to Gabon's fishes

A new study predicts that proposed hydropower dams in Gabon will block access to freshwater habitats suitable for marine species, impacting at least 350 fish species. The dams may cut off 60% of the most suitable habitats in the Nyanga river, representing 392 river kilometers.

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.

Medical students become less empathic toward patients throughout medical school

A nationwide study found that medical students' empathy levels drop significantly as they transition from preclinical to clinical years of medical school. The study, led by Dr. Mohammadreza Hojat, surveyed over 10,700 students at DO-granting medical schools and compared their results with those of MD-granting medical schools.

Cathode 'defects' improve battery performance

A new study reveals that controlling structural defects in cathode materials can enhance battery performance by allowing lithium ions and electrons to move in three dimensions across layers. High-precision powder diffraction analyses achieved unprecedented accuracy in measuring defect concentrations.

First-of-its-kind study examines toll of nuclear war on world's oceans

A recent study by the University of Colorado Boulder and Rutgers University explores the impact of nuclear war on the world's oceans. The research finds that smoke generated by detonated warheads could shift ocean acidification patterns and rob waters of essential building blocks for organisms like corals.

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.

Roll up

Researchers successfully grow crystals of various materials onto the surface of carbon nanotubes, paving the way for unique properties in 1D vdWs. This breakthrough enables potential applications in flexible electronics, lasers, solar energy conversion, and more.

Study: Higher opioid doses fail to lessen pain

A study analyzing over 50,000 VA patients found that increasing opioid prescription doses does not improve chronic pain management. Despite higher doses, patients' pain scores showed minimal changes, indicating that clinicians should exercise caution when escalating opioid doses.

Breaking up amino acids with radiation

Researchers break down amino acid glutamine when bombarded with different doses of electrons. This process has implications for understanding the effect of ionising radiation on human cells and improving cancer radiotherapy.

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.

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.

Gut bacteria help control healthy muscle contraction in the colon

Research from The Francis Crick Institute found that gut bacteria activate a specific gene called Ahr in intestinal nerves, promoting healthy digestion and peristalsis. This relationship can be disrupted in cases of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced gut microbiome.

Paternal involvement might improve health of mom, infant

A study by Northwestern Medicine and CDC found that unmarried mothers with paternal involvement are more likely to breastfeed and engage in protective health behaviors. This is compared to married mothers who also experience benefits from their partner's presence, suggesting a positive impact of fatherhood on maternal health.

Improving adhesives for wearable sensors

Researchers created a potential new adhesive using poly(vinyl alcohol) to improve the adhesion of wearable sensors. The modified compound, 4C3-PVA, was found to be hydrophobic but have less tensile strength compared to other versions.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Targeting the cancer microenvironment

A new biochemical switch involved in M2 macrophage polarization and proliferation has been identified, which can be targeted to inhibit cancer growth. The discovery was made by a research team from the University of Vienna and could lead to novel therapies against systemic diseases and cancer.

Analysis of human genomes in the cloud

Butler simplifies genomic data analysis by constantly collecting health metrics and automating self-healing modules. This reduces large project execution times from years to months, improving researcher productivity and efficiency.

Crystal-stacking process can produce new materials for high-tech devices

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and MIT developed a new platform to create stacked-crystal materials with hybrid properties and multiple functions. This allows for infinite combinations of materials, opening doors to new technologies in data storage, sensing, energy, biomedical devices and more.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Forest soils recovering from effects of acid rain

Soil researchers found significant movement of sulfate into subsoils and improved water quality after implementing the Clean Air Act Amendment in 1990. However, soils still exhibit chemical imbalances, indicating a long-term recovery process.

Is it possible to reduce political polarization?

Researchers found that 94% of participants accepted manipulated responses as their own and rationalized moderate views. The study suggests that even polarized individuals can become open to opposing views for a short time.

Europe moves towards complete statutory regulation of ART

The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology has found substantial variations in the legal and funding framework of 43 European countries regarding assisted reproduction. Access to treatment, third-party donation, fertility preservation, and public funding vary significantly among countries.

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.

Fastest high-precision 3D printer

Scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed a system to print highly precise, centimeter-sized objects with submicrometer details at an unmatched speed. The new 3D printer produces speeds of about 10 million voxels per second, corresponding to the speed reached by graphical 2D inkjet printers.

New understanding of childhood immune systems may improve vaccine efficacy

A new study by Swiss TPH and partners found that age, location, and anaemia status significantly impact childhood immune system development. The research suggests that considering these factors can improve the efficacy of childhood vaccinations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where anaemia is prevalent.

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.

Medical marijuana laws may affect workers' compensation claims

New research shows that US states with medical marijuana laws have seen a decline in workers' compensation claims due to improved symptom management. The modest reductions suggest expanded access to medical marijuana may also boost work capacity and reduce reliance on social insurance programs.

Can ionic liquids transform chemistry?

Researchers are exploring the use of ionic liquids as a more sustainable and efficient way to produce industrial materials like fibers and fuels. The unique properties of these molten salts make them an attractive alternative to traditional solvents, with potential applications in chemical synthesis, biomass refining, and energy storage.

Wasp nests used to date ancient Kimberley rock art

Researchers have dated ancient Aboriginal rock art in the Kimberley region using wasp nests, confirming that Gwion style paintings are around 12,000 years old. The technique used involves analyzing the age of wasp nests under and over the paintings to establish a date range.

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.

Researchers revise timing of Easter island's societal collapse

Easter Island's society continued to build and use its monuments for at least 150 years after the traditional collapse timeline, according to a new study. The research integrated radiocarbon dates with historical records of Dutch, Spanish, and English seafarers to create a revised chronology.

The shape of water: What water molecules look like on the surface of materials

Researchers used persistent homology and molecular dynamics simulations to study water molecules on graphene surfaces. They found that water molecules form stable polygonal shapes, which evolve into 3D tetrahedral structures after three layers are added. This discovery provides insights into the transition between surface and free water.

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.

What's your brand?

Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed an algorithm that combines statistical modeling techniques with machine learning-based image recognition to analyze social media data. The algorithm predicts consumer purchases and allows brands to identify potential customers.

Researchers brighten path for creating new type of MRI contrast agent

A team of researchers has created a novel organic and biodegradable compound for MRI contrast agents, eliminating the need for heavy metals like gadolinium. The new agent is developed by attaching an organic radical contrast agent to a plant virus and wrapping it in a protective chemical cage.

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.

Social media content matters for job candidates, researchers find

Researchers found that hiring managers perceive candidates with self-absorbed or overly opinionated social media profiles as less suitable for employment. The study also discovered that content suggesting drug or alcohol use has a smaller impact on perceptions of employment suitability.

People with cluster headaches may miss twice as much work as those without

A new study found that cluster headaches can lead to significant disruptions in daily life, with people missing an average of 16 sick days and 63 disability days per year. The study also revealed sex differences in the impact of cluster headaches on work capacity, with women experiencing more frequent and longer-lasting symptoms than men.

Unveiling how lymph nodes regulate immune response

Scientists uncover how lymph nodes' development is controlled by the Hippo pathway, shedding light on their role in regulating immune responses. The research found that impaired Hippo signaling can lead to fibrosis or transformation of fat cells, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for diseases affecting systemic immunity.

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.

Finding genetic cancer risks

Researchers identified germline mutations in the MBD4 gene as a driver of somatic mutations in cancer genomes, accelerating the clock-like mutational process. This discovery has significant implications for understanding cancer development and may lead to personalized screening and early intervention strategies.

Ultracold gases in time-dependent magnetic fields

Researchers studied phase transitions in ultracold gases under fluctuating magnetic fields, showing loss of symmetry in energy spectrum. The 'Hofstadter's butterfly' effect disappears as time dependence is introduced.