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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 35


Page 35 of 41

When the going gets tough, the tough (plants) turn female

Severe damage to male maple trees caused them to flower as females two years later, suggesting a threshold for sex-determining cues. This research supports the idea that changes in sugar concentration in female trees might be a consequence of injury and physical damage.

SourceColgate University·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateMar 4, 2020

Zigzag DNA

Researchers at Delft University of Technology have discovered a new loop structure in DNA, called the 'Z loop', which differs from traditional single loops and occurs more frequently. This discovery sheds light on how condensin proteins fold DNA into a zigzag structure through complex interactions.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Expanding the plasmonic painter's palette

Researchers developed a new plasmonic color-mixing approach using silver nanorods to create 2,456 unique colors with smooth transitions between hues and tones. This method has potential applications in new types of paint, electronic displays and anti-counterfeiting measures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 4, 2020

Study find delta helps to decrease the impact of river flooding

Research finds that river delta vegetation can delay and reduce floodwaters, providing communities more time to prepare for storm surges and flooding. The study suggests that managing vegetation type can decrease the impact of coastal flooding by reducing downstream water height.

SourceDauphin Island Sea Lab·JournalWater Resources Research·DateMar 4, 2020

Weight loss surgery may increase fracture risk

A study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that weight loss surgery, especially gastric bypass, increases the long-term risk of bone fractures. The rate was highest among patients who underwent gastric bypass, with a 2.58-times higher fracture risk compared to non-surgical obesity care and other bariatric surgery methods.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateMar 4, 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.

Birds of a feather better not together

A new study of North American birds found that regional ecosystem stability over time depends on both the total number of species present in a locality and on the variation in species identities among localities. The researchers used 20 years of observational data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey to test this hypothesis.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateMar 4, 2020

A new model of vision

A new computer model developed by MIT cognitive scientists can quickly generate a detailed scene description from an image, similar to the brain's ability. The model, known as efficient inverse graphics (EIG), reverses the steps used in computer graphics programs to generate images, allowing it to infer underlying features of a scene. ...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 4, 2020

Women deflated by #Fitspiration images

A recent study by Flinders University found that exposure to #fitspiration images increases negative mood and body dissatisfaction among young women. In contrast, exercise behavior was not significantly affected by viewing these images.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·DateMar 4, 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.

All optical control of exciton flow in a colloidal quantum well complex

Researchers from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, demonstrate a convenient way to control exciton flow between different colloidal quantum wells at room temperature through optical signals. They achieve continuous transition among three distinct exciton flow regimes with efficiencies of ~50%, ~90% and ~2%.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 4, 2020

New study finds inaccuracies in arsenic test kits in Bangladesh

A new study by researchers from the University of Michigan found that several commercially available arsenic test kits performed poorly, with some underestimating arsenic levels by a factor of two. The most accurate kits returned field-test values closest to lab-tested arsenic values, while others produced lighter color test strips tha...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalWater Research·DateMar 4, 2020
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.

Newly discovered brain response to obesity drug may inform future treatments

A new preclinical study reveals how liraglutide, an FDA-approved obesity drug, interacts with the brain's 'energy balance' system to reduce hunger and promote weight loss. The study identified a distinct group of neurons in the brainstem that play a key role in mediating these effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 4, 2020

£500,000 NIHR grant for obesity treatment

A £500,000 NIHR grant will be used to investigate the effectiveness of NHS-funded obesity treatment programmes in the UK. The project, BE:COME, aims to determine which components of these programmes contribute to weight loss and identify the best combination for different groups of people.

SourceLancaster University·DateMar 4, 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.

Tropical forests' carbon sink is already rapidly weakening

A study tracking 300,000 trees over 30 years reveals that tropical forests' carbon sink is weakening, with a feared switch from absorption to emission imminent. The loss of this critical carbon sink capacity is equivalent to a decade of fossil fuel emissions from major countries.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020

'Triangle 2' plastic containers may see environmental makeover

Researchers at Cornell University developed a new way to control the properties of high-density polyethylene, a type of plastic commonly used in containers. The breakthrough allows for improved processability and strength while reducing the energy required for production and recycling.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 4, 2020

Divorced parents may impact some teens' academics

A study found that adolescents with divorced parents have lower GPAs, especially those with more educated mothers. The researchers controlled for paternal education and income measures, revealing a stronger association between divorce and reduced GPA among teens with highly educated mothers.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2020

SMART announces revolutionary new process for scientific applications

A new microfluidic process using yield-stress fluids creates an undisturbed environment for experimentation, observation, and processing of biological and chemical reactions. This can lead to the development of high-potency medicines with improved quality and better results.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2020
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.

Rapid DNA test quickly identifies victims of mass casualty event

Researchers used Rapid DNA Identification to quickly identify 58 victims of the 2018 Camp Fire, a technique that can provide results within hours. This work represents the first use of Rapid DNA Identification in a mass casualty event and has since been utilized in another incident.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateMar 4, 2020

FSU researchers propose new physics to explain decay of subatomic particle

FSU physicists suggest a new, short-lived particle may be responsible for the rare decay of Kaon particles, defying the standard model of physics. Researchers in Japan are conducting further data runs to confirm the observation, which could potentially reveal new insights into fundamental forces.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 4, 2020

New insights into evolution: Why genes appear to move around

Scientists at Uppsala University propose the SNAP Hypothesis to explain why genes move on chromosomes. This hypothesis suggests that tandem duplications of chromosome sections occur frequently, leading to changes in gene order over time. Random loss of unnecessary duplicated genes can result in rapid rearrangements of remaining genes.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 4, 2020
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.

Moviegoers contaminate nonsmoking movie theater with 'thirdhand' cigarette smoke

Research shows that concentrations of nicotine and smoking-related volatile organic compounds spike when moviegoers enter a non-smoking theater, equivalent to up to 10 cigarettes of secondhand smoke. The study highlights the need for regulation and warns of the health risks of thirdhand exposure, especially for infants and children.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 4, 2020

Researchers identify ways to improve care to trafficked children

A new study identifies barriers to quality healthcare for trafficked children, including lack of provider training and multidisciplinary collaboration. The research also provides recommendations for improving care, including the development of an assessment tool for healthcare professionals.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateMar 4, 2020

March Madness bracket analysis shows picking final four first leads to better brackets

Researchers suggest starting with Final Four picks and building backward and forward from there for optimal strategies. The study's models produce many brackets that would have placed in the top 100 of the ESPN bracket challenge, especially those that start by picking Elite Eight or Final Four teams.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·JournalJournal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports·DateMar 4, 2020

Biomaterial discovery enables 3D printing of tissue-like vascular structures

Researchers have developed a new biomaterial that can be 3D printed to create tissue-like vascular structures, which could enable the recreation of vasculature in the lab. The material exhibits biologically relevant properties and has the capacity to withstand flow, making it suitable for building complex robust structures.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2020
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.

Study shows low carb diet may prevent, reverse age-related effects within the brain

A study published in PNAS reveals that neurobiological changes associated with aging can be seen at a younger age and may be prevented or reversed through dietary changes. Researchers found that consuming ketones, as opposed to glucose, stabilized brain networks and increased overall brain activity.

SourceStony Brook University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2020

Flower faithful native bee makes a reliable pollinator

A study published in Ecology found that a native sweat bee species, Halictus ligatus, has a daily routine that makes it a promising pollinator. The bees were found to consistently visit the same plant species day-to-day, making them valuable for commercial crop pollination.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalEcology·DateMar 4, 2020

Can boxing improve quality of life for people with Parkinson's disease?

A preliminary study found that Rock Steady Boxing participants reported significant improvements in quality of life areas, including depression, fatigue, and fear of falling. The program also boosted confidence in exercising, with current participants scoring better on standardized scales than non-participants.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateMar 4, 2020

Third-hand smoke is no joke, can convey hazardous chemicals

A new study from Yale University reveals that third-hand smoke can travel into indoor spaces through human contact, exposing non-smokers to hazardous chemicals. The research found that even in well-ventilated areas like movie theaters, people can carry and release third-hand smoke contaminants, posing health risks.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 4, 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.

Robot uses artificial intelligence and imaging to draw blood

The Rutgers team's robotic device combines AI, near-infrared, and ultrasound imaging to accurately pinpoint blood vessels, outperforming human healthcare professionals in complex tasks. The device reduces injuries and improves procedure efficiency, enabling healthcare professionals to focus on other critical aspects of medical care.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateMar 4, 2020

Teaming basic scientists with clinicians may improve medical education retention

Pairing clinician and basic science educators can help improve retention of information in medical school curriculum design. This integration, starting from the initial stages, facilitates the transfer of knowledge to clinical settings. By shadowing clinicians, basic scientists can better understand how to communicate information with ...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAJP Advances in Physiology Education·DateMar 4, 2020

Identifying pathogenic genes in virus strains at a glance

The Pangaia project at Bielefeld University is developing new algorithms to analyze genomic data for biomedicine, enabling faster detection of infectious strains and hereditary diseases. Researchers can compare a single genome with thousands of others in a single step, highlighting similarities and differences.

SourceBielefeld University·DateMar 4, 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.

Coronavirus treatment and risk to breastfeeding women

A new article reviews commonly used coronavirus treatments and their potential impact on breastfeeding infants. Despite a lack of evidence, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine advises continued breastfeeding with careful handwashing and mask-wearing to minimize viral exposure.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateMar 4, 2020

A talented 2D material gets a new gig

Researchers have developed a graphene system that combines superconducting, insulating, and ferromagnetic properties, enabling new physics experiments and potential applications in quantum computing. The device was created using an ultrathin trilayer graphene structure with boron nitride layers.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020

Exciting apparatus helps atoms see the light

Researchers at OIST have created a new platform for quantum information processing using Rydberg atoms near nanometer-thin optical fibers. The ability to control these hyper-sensitive atoms could revolutionize material and drug discoveries and provide more secure quantum communication.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateMar 4, 2020

The health of coral reefs in the largest marine protected area in the world

Scientists from the Global Reef Expedition found that many coral reefs in the Cook Islands were in good shape, with high coral cover and diverse fish communities. However, Aitutaki's corals were being ravaged by a crown-of-thorns starfish outbreak, causing significant damage to the reef ecosystem.

SourceKhaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation·DateMar 4, 2020

DNA sugars characterised in unprecedented resolution, atom by atom

Researchers at the University of the Basque Country have developed technology to determine the structure of sugars present in DNA with atomic-level resolution. The study reveals the importance of five-membered ring forms in biological contexts.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 4, 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.

Using ultrasound localization microscopy to detect oxygen levels in tissues

Using ultrasound localization microscopy, researchers can visualize blood vessels and measure oxygen levels in tumors with high resolution. This technique has the potential to improve cancer detection and therapy evaluation by providing accurate information on tumor hypoxia.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2020

Multi-country study reveals shortcomings in treating obesity

A recent survey-based study of health professionals from 68 countries found that inadequate treatment services for obesity are prevalent globally. Lack of clear care pathways, high costs, and stigma are among the factors attributed to the shortage of effective treatments.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical Obesity·DateMar 4, 2020

Amber specimens reveal origin of long mouthpart of scorpionflies

A new genus found in 99-million-year-old Burmese amber reveals the evolutionary origin of scorpionflies' distinctive long mouthparts. The discovery sheds light on the early evolution of pollinators and challenges previous assumptions about the development of fleas.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 4, 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.

Robots on the march to walking like humans

Researchers at the University of Manchester developed a robot that uses perceptual control theory to balance and move efficiently. The study found that robots programmed with this theory performed better than those using standard algorithms, demonstrating potential for more lifelike machines.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalJournal of Intelligent & Robotic Systems·DateMar 4, 2020
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.

NASA tracks ex-Tropical Cyclone Esther over Northern Territory

Ex-tropical cyclone Esther's remnant clouds and storms are being tracked by NASA's Aqua satellite over the Barkly Region of Australia's Northern Territory. The region has experienced widespread rainfall totals of 50 to 150 mm, leading to localized flooding and areas of inundation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 4, 2020