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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 28


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.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJul 14, 2020

Scientists ID gene responsible for deadly glioblastoma

Researchers have identified AVIL as an oncogene that plays a critical role in the development of glioblastoma. Targeting this gene shows promise as an effective approach for treating the disease.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceDurham University·DateJul 14, 2020

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...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 14, 2020

Experts' high-flying study reveals secrets of soaring birds

The Andean condor flaps its wings only 1% of the time during flight, with most movement occurring through air currents. Research using high-tech flight-recorders revealed that over 75% of wing movements are associated with take-off.

SourceSwansea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2020

Researchers cast doubt on earlier COVID-19 origins study citing dogs as possible hosts

A recent study claiming the coronavirus may have jumped from dogs to humans lacks direct evidence, according to a collaborative group of international researchers. The team refuted the earlier study, highlighting that dogs are not special in their content of proteins that interact with viral CpG content.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 14, 2020

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',

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateJul 14, 2020

Customizable smart window technology could improve energy efficiency of buildings

Scientists developed a customizable smart window prototype that maximizes design across various criteria, balancing energy usage with lighting and temperature preferences. The approach uses comprehensive physical models and advanced computational techniques to optimize window designs for optimal energy efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJul 14, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

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.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 14, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Underused part of the electromagnetic spectrum gets optics boost from 'metasurface'

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology develop a novel collimator using a specially designed metasurface, enabling efficient manipulation of terahertz waves. This breakthrough has significant implications for next-generation wireless communications, security systems, biomedicine, and cultural heritage science.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateJul 14, 2020

COVID-19 and the heart: Searching for the location of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor

Researchers used single-nucleus sequencing to investigate COVID-19's effects on the heart, discovering that the SARS-CoV-2 receptor is upregulated in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions only in cardiomyocytes. The study also found no significant impact of hypertension medications on ACE2 levels.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalCirculation·DateJul 14, 2020

Ups and downs in COVID-19 data may be caused by data reporting practices

A study suggests that COVID-19 data patterns are driven by variations in testing and reporting practices, rather than social interactions or healthcare quality. The researchers found that changes in reporting methods, such as the timing of death reports, can cause fluctuations in case numbers.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSystems·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateJul 14, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

SourceeLife·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJul 14, 2020
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.

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.

SourceBrain Chemistry Labs·JournalNeurotoxicity Research·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourcePenn State·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJul 14, 2020
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.

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.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Anthropological Research·DateJul 14, 2020

Experimental COVID-19 vaccine safe, generates immune response

The Phase 1 trial of mRNA-1273 vaccine showed neutralizing antibody activity in healthy adults, with high levels observed after two doses. The vaccine was generally well-tolerated, with side effects including fatigue and pain at the injection site.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 14, 2020

A study on maternal mortality in Mozambique detects a major diagnostic error in a high percentage of deaths

A study published in Lancet Global Health reveals a significant diagnostic error in almost 40% of maternal deaths in Maputo's central hospital in Mozambique. The results highlight the need to improve access to specific diagnostic tests and strengthen clinical skills among healthcare workers.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJul 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.

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.

SourceArizona State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJul 14, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 14, 2020