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Science News Archive January 2020


Page 16 of 40

Tiny price gaps cost investors billions

Research from UVM and MITRE shows that near-light-speed differences in stock prices create opportunities for latency arbitrage, costing investors at least $2 billion annually. High-frequency traders exploit faster information systems to buy stocks at better prices and sell them quickly, resulting in significant profits.

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.

Late Neolithic Italy was home to complex networks of metal exchange

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that prehistoric Italian communities traded copper across complex networks, with most coming from Tuscany. Non-Tuscan copper was also a significant import to the region, contributing to a growing picture of independent metal exchange networks.

Life's Frankenstein beginnings

A new study proposes that the first building blocks of life on Earth were not uniform but rather patchwork molecules containing bits of RNA and DNA. The 'RNA World' hypothesis has been revised to suggest a Frankenstein-like beginning, with RNA emerging from a mixture of nucleotides.

A heart-healthy protein from bran of cereal crop

A protein found in the bran of foxtail millet has been shown to reduce plaque buildup and inflammation in mice with genetic predispositions to atherosclerosis. The study suggests that this natural compound may have great potential in preventing and treating heart disease.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Fighting microbes with microbes

Researchers identified a highly competitive bacterium in the gut microbiota that protects against enteric pathogens. This discovery offers new avenues for developing antibiotic-free treatments.

New research finds Earth's oldest asteroid strike linked to 'big thaw'

Scientists at Curtin University have discovered the Yarrabubba crater, dated to 2.229 billion years ago, coinciding with the end of a global deep freeze known as Snowball Earth. The research suggests that the asteroid impact may have influenced global climate by vaporizing ice and releasing greenhouse gases.

New SwRI models reveal inner complexity of Saturn moon

A new geochemical model suggests that Enceladus' subsurface ocean may be habitable due to chemical reactions at its seafloor, which could provide energy sources for life. The study reveals a complex core structure with diverse environments, including hydrothermal vents and carbonated rocks.

Neutron source enables a look inside dino eggs

Scientists investigate three 67 million year old oviraptorid egg fossils, determining that the embryos were at different developmental stages and likely hatched at different times. The findings suggest a unique nesting biology similar to modern birds, challenging previous assumptions about oviraptorids.

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.

2019's new medicines

In 2019, the pharmaceutical industry approved 48 new medicines, including treatments for various cancers, sickle cell disease, and migraines. The majority of these drugs had novel mechanisms of action, such as antibody-drug conjugates and small interfering RNA.

How're your cells' motors running?

Researchers discovered that two types of 'kinesin' molecular motors coordinate differently, with kinesin-1 working independently and kinesin-14 interacting to tune transport speed. This breakthrough expands understanding of cellular processes and basic life functions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers reverse HIV latency, important scientific step toward cure

Scientists at UNC-Chapel Hill and Emory University successfully reversed HIV latency in animal models using compound AZD5582. The study, published in Nature, demonstrated the ability to activate latently infected CD4+ T cells without toxicity, paving the way for further research towards a cure.

Quo vadis Antarctic bottom water?

Researchers found that Antarctic Bottom Water, a deep-water mass in the Southern Hemisphere, was disrupted from spreading northwards into the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans during peak ice ages. The study suggests that weaker circulation in the Southern Ocean during cold periods may have interrupted this process.

Even after death, animals are important in ecosystems

Researchers found that animal carcasses contribute to increased plant growth, attracting herbivorous insects and their predators. This has a positive impact on the local food chain, persisting even five months after death.

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.

Medicare may overpay for many surgical procedures

A RAND Corporation analysis suggests that Medicare overpays surgeons for postoperative care, with only a small share of the care provided. Adjusting payments could reduce reimbursements by 28% and result in increased payments to primary care providers.

Keeping lead out of drinking water when switching disinfectants

Researchers from Washington University found that adding orthophosphate to the water supply before switching to chloramine can prevent lead contamination. In their experiment, lead levels remained below 10 micrograms/liter in pipes treated with orthophosphate, whereas levels rose above 80 micrograms/liter in control pipes.

Residues in fingerprints hold clues to their age

Researchers have developed a method to link fingerprint compounds with their age, allowing for more precise timing of prints. By analyzing triacylglycerol degradation rates, scientists can estimate the time elapsed since fingerprints were left behind.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Mosquito-borne diseases could be prevented by skin cream

A skin cream used to treat warts and skin cancer has been found to prevent infection from viral diseases like Zika and dengue when applied after a mosquito bite. The cream works by activating the skin's immune response, preventing the virus from spreading throughout the body.

Study assesses absorption, blood levels of active ingredients in sunscreen

A randomized clinical trial evaluated the absorption of six sunscreen active ingredients in four formulations, with all ingredients surpassing FDA thresholds for potentially waiving additional safety studies. The study highlights the need for further research on sunscreen ingredient exposure and its effects.

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.

Preparing land for palm oil causes most climate damage

New research finds that preparing land for palm oil plantations releases more greenhouse gases than mature plantations, accounting for almost a quarter of regional emissions. Laboratory analysis reveals significant CO2 emissions during drainage and young oil palm stages.

Possible Alzheimer's breakthrough suggested

Researchers have identified a new protein called 'aggregatin' that accumulates in brain plaques and may be linked to Alzheimer's disease progression. Suppressing this protein could lead to future treatments aimed at slowing the disease's advance.

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.

Visits to pediatricians on the decline

Commercially insured children in the US see pediatricians less often, with primary care visits decreasing by 14% and problem-based visits declining by 24%. The trend may be driven by higher out-of-pocket costs and changes in healthcare behaviors, including increased use of telemedicine and urgent care.

Let the europium shine brighter

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a stacked nanocarbon antenna that makes europium shine brighter than previous designs, with potential to create more efficient photosensitizers. The new design uses low-energy blue light absorption, reducing energy loss and enabling photodynamic therapy applications.

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.

Our biological clock plays crucial role in healing from surgery

A study led by McGill University found that anti-inflammatory medications are most effective when taken during the active periods of our biological clocks, promoting post-operative healing and recovery. This discovery suggests a new approach to treating pain and inflammation following surgery.

Taming electrons with bacteria parts

Researchers created an artificial electron transfer system by modifying a protein from bacteria, which can be used to produce medicines and biofuels. The system works by guiding electrons through short 'pit stops' made of heme molecules, allowing for more efficient energy transfer.

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.

Insecticides are becoming more toxic to honey bees

Researchers found that neonicotinoid seed treatments have driven a significant increase in insecticide toxicity to honey bees, particularly oral-based toxic loads, which rose by 9-fold across the US. The study highlights the need for mitigation and conservation efforts in regions with high levels of insecticide use.

Dying people give last gift to help cure HIV

A new study found HIV hides in every organ site, including the brain and liver, causing inflammation-related diseases. The study used serial blood samples from terminally ill participants with HIV to identify where HIV hides, shedding light on potential new therapies.

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.

Drug combo reverses arthritis in rats

A combination of two experimental drugs has reversed osteoarthritis in rats, with improved cartilage thickness and reduced cell death. The treatment may potentially translate to human use, offering a promising therapy for millions of adults affected by the disease.

Zebrafish teach researchers more about atrial fibrillation

Researchers have found a possible link between a genetic variation and atrial fibrillation in zebrafish, suggesting a structural defect in the heart muscle and mitochondria. Early treatment with antioxidants may prevent the disorder in fish, but more research is needed to understand its human implications.

New study examines mortality costs of air pollution in US

Researchers developed a machine learning-based method to estimate life-years lost and cost associated with air pollution exposure. The study found that the elderly population is most vulnerable, with those with chronic conditions facing over 30 times higher mortality risk than typical Medicare beneficiaries.

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.

Arctic sea ice can't 'bounce back'

A study using quahog clam shells and climate models reveals Arctic sea ice can't 'bounce back' if climate change causes it to melt. Human activity is now massively forcing the system, exacerbating warming and sea ice loss.

A model ecosystem fish story

A study led by Michigan State University researchers found that a collective model created by over 200 anglers and fishing club members accurately predicted pike populations, habitat, and fishing pressure. The results show that involving diverse interest groups improves the accuracy of the solution.

Low power metal detector senses magnetic fingerprints

A new device uses magnetic fingerprinting to identify hidden metal objects, offering a smaller and cheaper alternative to traditional security systems. It can detect a wide range of metallic objects, from cellphones to hammers, with improved accuracy and low power consumption.

In the local fight against opioid addiction, you matter

The U-MATTER program uses a deflection approach, directing people with opioid use disorders towards treatment and services. The initiative has seen positive outcomes, including 71 individuals receiving full clinical intake assessments and 40 committing to long-term treatment.

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.

Cybercrime: Internet erodes teenage impulse controls

A new study by Flinders University finds that teenagers' online impulsivity is a significant risk factor for cybercrime. The internet's blurring of social boundaries encourages thrill-seeking behavior, which can lead to digital piracy, pornography, and hacking. The researchers suggest that policy interventions should take into account ...

The adaptability of debris is successfully proven as a raw material for roads

The study, conducted by the University of Córdoba, demonstrates the feasibility of using recycled demolition waste to build roads. The results show that recycled aggregates from mixed materials and concrete foundations performed better than natural aggregates in terms of surface properties and mechanical development.