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Science News Archive July 2020


Page 28 of 47

Pesticide mixtures a bigger problem than previously thought

Research has found that nearly all water samples from 15 waterways discharging into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon contained pesticide mixtures, with up to 20 pesticides present in some samples. The study emphasizes the need for improved pesticide management practices among land managers and farmers to reduce losses to waterways.

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.

Machine learning accurately predicts who's who in the health care workforce

A machine learning algorithm accurately identifies medical specialties and primary care physicians with 95% accuracy, providing real-time data on the US healthcare workforce. The model correctly predicted 70% of physician practice types within five percentage points, including specialties such as emergency medicine and cardiology.

Supercomputer reveals atmospheric impact of gigantic planetary collisions

A new study using supercomputer simulations reveals the scale of atmosphere loss during giant planetary collisions. Grazing impacts led to less atmospheric loss than direct hits, while higher speeds resulted in complete erosion of the atmosphere. The research provides insight into the evolution of planets and their atmospheres.

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.

Quantum body scanner? What happens when vector vortex beams meet scattering media

A team of researchers has made significant progress in developing a quantum body scanner that can detect cancer with high accuracy. By analyzing the transmission of vector vortex beams through scattering media, they have overcome major hurdles in biomedical imaging. The study's findings suggest that vector vortex beams can preserve the...

Study finds hidden emotions in the sound of words

A Cornell-led study reveals that sound combinations elicit emotionally intense responses, linking them to meaning. The research suggests that early humans may have used emotion to associate words with meanings, paving the way for language development.

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.

Twisting magnetic fields for extreme plasma compression

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a method to stabilize plasma compression using twisted magnetic fields. The technique reduced escaping plasma tentacles by 70% and improved conditions for studying extreme plasma states.

When a pandemic strikes, we still expect an ambulance

A study found that Australians prioritize paramedic safety and expect them to attend cases involving children or immediate families during a pandemic. However, concerns arise when PPE is scarce, as responders feel it becomes 'above and beyond the call of duty',

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Transparent, reflective objects now within grasp of robots

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed a system that enables robots to pick up transparent and reflective objects using a color camera and depth images. The system outperforms previous methods in grasping these challenging objects, with high success rates in both clean and cluttered environments.

New lithium battery charges faster, reduces risk of device explosions

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new anode design for lithium batteries using carbon nanotubes that enables safe storage of lithium ions and boosts charging speed. The technology prevents dendrite formation, reducing the risk of device explosions and improving battery performance.

The earliest cat on the Northern Silk Road

A team of archaeologists has discovered the earliest known domestic cat in northern Eurasia, dating back to the late 8th century AD. The well-preserved skeleton revealed that humans cared for the tomcat, suggesting a longer history of human-cat interactions than previously thought.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Tale of the tape: Sticky bits make better batteries

Rice chemist James Tour and his team use adhesive tape to create a silicon oxide film that replaces troublesome anodes in lithium metal batteries. The new coating triples the battery lifetimes of other zero-excess lithium metal batteries, delivering better performance and longer lifespan.

Avian speciation: Uniform vs. particolored plumage

Researchers identify genetic mutation contributing to reproductive isolation between carrion and hooded crows due to differences in plumage color. The mutation appears to have been favored by natural selection, potentially providing a selective advantage in hot regions.

How to map brain connections using DNA barcodes

Researchers developed a new method to map brain-wide connections using DNA barcodes, reducing costs compared to traditional methods. The approach generates virtually infinite labels to distinguish individual cells, enabling the creation of accurate anatomical maps.

Scientists achieve first complete assembly of human X chromosome

Researchers have completed the first end-to-end assembly of a human X chromosome, exceeding the current human reference genome in continuity and accuracy. The breakthrough was made possible by new sequencing technologies that enable ultra-long reads, such as nanopore sequencing.

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.

Loss of a co-twin linked to heightened psychiatric risk

A new study published in eLife found that twins who survive the loss of their co-twin are at an elevated risk of psychiatric disorders in both the short and longer term. The risk is highest for identical twins and those who experienced a co-twin's death during childhood or young adulthood.

Invasive alien species may soon cause dramatic global biodiversity loss

A study by international researchers predicts that a 20-30% increase in invasive alien species will lead to massive global biodiversity loss. The spread of these species is driven primarily by human activities such as trade and climate change, highlighting the need for ambitious countermeasures.

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.

Cardiac CT can double as osteoporosis test

A study found that cardiac CT exams can effectively screen for osteoporosis by measuring thoracic spine bone mineral density, which is strongly associated with fracture risk. This non-invasive method can guide preventive measures and treatment decisions without adding time or radiation to the exam.

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.

$194.7M grant will transform research engine at U of A, create new institute

The University of Arkansas will establish the Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I3R) with a $194.7 million grant, creating a flexible framework for interdisciplinary research across five clusters: data science, food technology, materials science, bioscience, and integrative systems neuroscience.

Hammer-on technique for atomic vibrations in a crystal

Scientists have demonstrated a 'hammer-on' effect in crystals by switching the frequency of atomic motions with an impulsively generated electric current. The technique allows for faster playing and legato, similar to rock guitarists using the hammer-on method.

Towards prosperous public goods with freedom of choice

Research suggests that giving individuals the freedom to choose preferred public goods significantly increases participation rates, fostering conditional cooperation and leading to more wealth generated for players. Local circumstances are found to be more important than global social network characteristics in driving this effect.

A new path for electron optics in solid-state systems

A novel mechanism for electron optics in two-dimensional solid-state systems has been introduced, allowing for the control of electrons at the scale of micrometers and nanometers. This breakthrough enables the engineering of quantum-optical phenomena in a variety of materials.

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.

Cyanobacteria from Lake Chad analyzed for toxins

Researchers analyze dried cyanobacteria wafers from Lake Chad for toxins, finding safety concerns but also nutritional benefits. Dihe cakes are a rich source of dietary amino acids and may help undernourished villagers.

Global methane emissions soar to record high

Methane levels have surged globally, primarily driven by coal mining, oil and gas production, and cattle farming. The potent greenhouse gas poses a significant threat, with potential consequences including wildfires, droughts, and social disruptions.

What determines a warbler's colors?

A new study has narrowed down the region of the genome that drives the black color in warblers by studying hybrid offspring. The hybrids have a mix of coloration from the parent species, allowing researchers to identify which regions of the genome are associated with which color patterns.

Back to the future: new study could lead to bumper crops

A breakthrough in understanding rubisco, a crucial enzyme in photosynthesis, could lead to significant gains in crop production. By revisiting a billion-year-old strategy, scientists have identified new ways to enhance rubisco activity.

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.

St18 is a negative regulator of VEGF

St18 is a negative regulator of VEGF signaling, which plays a critical role in septic pathophysiology. Mice lacking St18 exhibit increased retinal vasculature and enhanced serum VEGF concentrations, highlighting the importance of St18 in regulating VEGF.

The plight of the Kalahari San

San communities are marginalized despite living for thousands of years, with weak land tenure protections in Botswana. In contrast, Namibia recognizes their rights through community-based natural resources management and human rights organizations play a crucial role in advocating for their welfare.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

Butterfly wings inspiring next-gen technological innovations

Researchers have successfully fabricated various sensor and energy systems inspired by butterfly wings, including thermal, medical, and vapor sensors, anti-counterfeit security devices, and photovoltaic systems. These systems demonstrate competitive efficiency and performance to similar systems inspired by other natural species.

Why hydration is so important when hiking in the heat of summer

A recent study found that hikers' performance during hot weather conditions was impaired, resulting in slower speeds and increased risk of heat-related illness. The researchers also discovered that most hikers did not bring enough fluid to compensate for sweat loss, with less fit participants being most negatively affected.

Ancient oyster shells provide historical insights

Researchers studied thousands of oyster shells to understand Native American harvesting practices, revealing a remarkable stability of oyster reefs prior to the 20th century. The study highlights the importance of Indigenous ecological knowledge for modern reef management.

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.