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Science News Archive January 2020


Page 9 of 40

Arctic sea ice and Pacific trade winds

Researchers found a connection between Arctic sea ice melting and altered Pacific El Niño activity. The study suggests that sea ice melt drives vertical convection in the Arctic Ocean, generating planetary waves that carry heat and momentum to the tropics.

New type of curved acoustic beams to provide manipulations with nanoparticles

Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have successfully created a new type of curved acoustic wave beam, known as an acoustical hook, which can be used to manipulate nanoparticles with high precision and accuracy. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize fields such as biomedicine and materials synthesis.

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.

Humans not always to blame for genetic diversity loss in wildlife

Researchers found that African lions' genetic diversity loss in the KAZA region was caused by their need to adapt to different habitats. This suggests that ecological factors, rather than human impacts, are responsible for this loss. The study's findings have important implications for wildlife conservation managers.

Study connects marine heat wave with spike in whale entanglements

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the 2014-2016 marine heat wave led to a significant increase in humpback whales becoming entangled in fishing gear, averaging 53 confirmed entanglements per year. The shift in whale feeding behavior due to ocean warming caused a greater overlap between whales and crab fishing gear.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Climate costs smallest if warming is limited to 2°C

Researchers found that limiting temperature increase to 2°C yields economically optimal results; climate policies can balance damages and mitigation costs. The study tested various uncertainties and confirmed the 2°C limit is cost-efficient across different climate sensitivities.

Autism diagnosis test needs improvement, Rutgers researchers say

A study published in Neural Computation found that the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) test has flaws, including non-normal scores and clinician influence on diagnoses. The researchers propose combining clinical observations with wearable technology to make data collection less invasive and improve diagnosis reliability

Refuge for cold-adapted species

A study on collared lemming genomic variation reveals high genetic diversity in West Beringia, suggesting this region acts as a refuge for cold-adapted species. Temperature changes during the last interglacial period may have driven northward expansion of forests, leading to habitat contraction.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Unique centromere type discovered in the European dodder

Scientists at Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research discovered a new type of centromere in the European dodder, Cuscuta europaea. Unlike typical monocentric or holocentric species, the unique centromere in C. europaea was found to be independent of CENH3 histone distribution.

Most young people do not vape, and even fewer vape regularly

A study by NYU School of Global Public Health found that over 80% of youth do not use tobacco, and most vaping youth are also current or former smokers. The research suggests that while vaping rates have increased among youth, smoking rates have decreased, indicating a net harm reduction benefit to the population.

Wild tomatoes resist devastating bacterial canker

Cornell University researchers found that wild tomato varieties are less affected by bacterial canker, with the pathogen remaining confined to specific xylem vessels. The team's study confirms that wild tomatoes are susceptible to bacterial canker, but with less severe symptoms than cultivated varieties.

UCI oceanographers predict increase in phytoplankton by 2100

A new study using a neural network-driven Earth system model predicts an increase in phytoplankton biomass in low-latitude regions by 2100. The team found that the traditional assumption of declining biomass due to climate change is not supported, and instead, phytoplankton may actually thrive in warmer waters.

Discovery could help slow down progression of Parkinson's disease

A collaboration between Rutgers University and Scripps Research has led to the discovery of a small molecule that reduces α-synuclein protein levels, potentially slowing or stopping Parkinson's disease progression. This finding offers hope for early-stage patients and may be applicable to other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

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.

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.

Parkinson's disease may start before birth

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that people with Parkinson's disease before age 50 were born with disordered brain cells. The study suggests a potential new treatment using PEP005, which reduced alpha-synuclein levels and countered abnormal enzyme activity in dopamine neurons.

Study examines prostate cancer treatment decisions

A five-year follow-up study of over 2,000 U.S. men with localized prostate cancer found that radiation therapy was associated with significant declines in erectile function, while surgery improved function over time. Prostatectomy also resulted in worse urinary incontinence compared to other treatments.

Discharge 3 days following open heart surgery is safe

Patients who undergo open heart surgery can be discharged in 3 days without increased risk of complications, according to a recent study. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs aim to improve patient-centered care and reduce hospital stays by up to 30%.

A sustainable alternative to crude oil

A new polyamide family has been developed from a biogenic residue, offering improved performance and lower costs compared to traditional crude oil-based materials. The synthesis process is scalable and can be conducted in one reaction container, increasing sustainability.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Method detects defects in 2D materials for future electronics, sensors

Researchers developed a technique to quickly and sensitively characterize defects in 2D materials using laser light combined with second harmonic generation and dark field imaging. This method provides three times the brightness of standard bright field imaging, revealing grain boundaries and edges of semiconducting 2D materials.

Revving up the engine

A study published in Circulation reveals that an imbalance in the ratio of active and inactive myosin protein disrupts heart muscle contraction and relaxation, leading to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Treatment with a small-molecule drug restores proper contraction and energy consumption in human and rodent heart cells.

Researchers advance solar material production

A new production technique for CdTe material uses a high-pressure furnace and produces high-purity crystals in a rapid timeframe, outperforming current methods. The technique also eliminates concerns about explosions and allows for easier doping of the material.

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.

Science at the interface: Bioinspired materials reveal useful properties

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed bioinspired materials with tailored physical properties for various industries. The new materials are inspired by nature's mechanisms and can be custom-tailored to suit specific needs, offering a cheaper and more efficient alternative to conventional catalysts.

Nanocontainers introduced into the nucleus of living cells

Researchers at the University of Basel have developed biocompatible polymer vesicles that can enter the cell nucleus, allowing for targeted drug delivery. The nanocontainers can be designed to transport therapeutic agents directly to the cell's control center.

New look at odd holes involved in taste, Alzheimer's, asthma

Scientists have discovered the detailed structure of two calcium homeostasis modulator (CALHM) pores, which play a crucial role in sensing taste and controlling airways in lungs. The findings suggest these pores are essential for cell health and may lead to new therapies for Alzheimer's and depression.

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.

NASA finds Tropical Cyclone Diane's quick fade

Tropical Cyclone Diane formed on January 24 and quickly weakened due to wind shear, dissipating by January 27. The storm's clouds were blown southwest of the weak center, revealing its final state.

Algae shown to improve gastrointestinal health

A study by University of California San Diego researchers shows that consuming green algae improves human gastrointestinal issues associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as diarrhea, gas and bloating. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in bowel discomfort and more regular bowel movements among participants.

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.

Another reason to reduce man-made ozone: To cool a warming planet

New research suggests that cleaning up ozone precursors in energy, industrial, and transportation sectors can mitigate climate change by increasing the land's ability to remove carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. This could result in a 15% increase in the size of the current land sink for carbon.

How to take a picture of a light pulse

A team from TU Wien, MPI Garching, and LMU Munich has developed a new method to measure the shape of light pulses using tiny silicon oxide crystals. This allows for precise information about the interaction of light and matter, enabling applications such as characterizing novel materials and detecting diseases.

Neanderthal dispersal into Siberia

Researchers found that Chagyrskaya Cave Neanderthals used tools similar to those made by Eastern European Neanderthals, suggesting a connection between the two populations. The discovery indicates at least two separate dispersals of Neanderthals into southern Siberia.

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.

Making sense of flexible sensor systems

Researchers developed a thin, soft magnetic sensor matrix sheet system with tenfold improvement in sensitivity, enabling real-time visualization of magnetism. The system can be attached to the skin without causing discomfort and has high spatial resolution due to its high permeability.

Research shows the sexes have equal spatial cognition skills

A new study by researchers at the University of Limerick found that men and women employ different strategies to solve spatial cognition tasks. The research used eye-tracking technology to investigate cognitive proficiency in individuals and gamers, with results showing no male advantage in mental rotation abilities.

The virome of HPV-positive tonsil squamous cell carcinoma and neck metastasis

Researchers analyzed the virome of HPV-positive tonsil squamous cell carcinoma and neck metastasis, finding correlations between specific viruses and clinical outcomes. The study suggests that certain viral signatures may impact tumor biology and behavior, offering potential avenues for future research and treatment.

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.

Developmental origins of the urostyle

A study on the developmental origins of the frog urostyle reveals that thyroid hormone-mediated ossification played a crucial role in tail loss and rearrangement of the dorsal aorta. This process allowed for evolutionary novelty, shaping the body plan of Anura, including frogs.

Rice lab turns trash into valuable graphene in a flash

Researchers at Rice University have developed a 'flash graphene' process that can turn bulk quantities of waste material into valuable graphene flakes. The process is quick, cheap, and produces high-quality graphene with reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

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.

Discovery of a new liquid-liquid interfacial deformation by partial miscibility

A team of international researchers has discovered a new phenomenon where partially miscible liquids deform the liquid-liquid interface. This finding is significant for oil recovery and CO2 injection processes, as it challenges traditional understanding of fluid dynamics in such systems. The study's results have implications for improv...

Current model for storing nuclear waste is incomplete

New research from Ohio State University reveals that high-level nuclear waste storage materials will degrade faster than expected due to their interaction. The study found severe localized corrosion of glass, ceramics, and stainless steel under certain conditions, posing significant challenges for the current storage model.

AI to help monitor behavior

A study published in Perspectives on Behavior Science found that AI models can accurately interpret behavioral data, outperforming a popular visual-aid tool. This could lead to better decision-making and tailored interventions for individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health issues or learning difficulties.

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.

With high fiber diets, more protein may mean more bloating

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that people on high fiber diets are 40% more likely to experience bloating if they consume protein-rich diets. The researchers suggest that substituting high-quality carb calories for protein calories may reduce bloating and make these diets more tolerable.