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Science News Archive October 2020


Page 22 of 47

Impacts of sanctuary policies on crime

A study analyzing US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data found that sanctuary policies decrease overall deportations, particularly among individuals with violent convictions. However, crime rates remain unaffected, suggesting that sanctuary policies do not threaten public safety.

Material found in house paint may spur technology revolution

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new device that more efficiently processes information using non-volatile computer memory. The breakthrough could revolutionize technologies like voice recognition, image processing, and autonomous driving by reducing energy consumption.

Paper recycling must be powered by renewables to save climate

A new modelling study by researchers at UCL and Yale found that paper recycling may increase greenhouse gas emissions unless powered by renewable energy. The study suggests that modernising landfill practices and using renewable energy can reduce emissions significantly.

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.

New lab test clarifies the potential protective effects of COVID-19 antibodies

Researchers at Ohio State University developed a new lab testing procedure for detecting neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, which can protect against re-infection and block viral replication. The assay found that ICU patients had the highest concentration of neutralizing antibodies, while healthcare workers had the lowest levels.

An ultrasonic projector for medicine

Researchers have developed a chip-based technology that generates high-resolution sound profiles with intense sound pressure. This allows for more effective and easier ultrasound therapy, potentially benefiting patients with cancer, brain conditions, and other diseases. The technology also enables the creation of organoid models for dr...

Magnetic field and hydrogels could be used to grow new cartilage

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has demonstrated a new method to rebuild complex body tissues using a magnetic field and hydrogels. This technique allows for the creation of engineered tissues with natural tissue-like properties, including a cellular gradient.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Detecting early-stage failure in electric power conversion devices

A study published in IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics detects the earliest stages of failure in silicon carbide power electronics through real-time acoustic monitoring. The researchers found that increasing acoustic emission signals correspond to progressive damage to aluminum ribbons, allowing for early warning of device failure.

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.

Unique program aims to educate Muslim teens on HIV prevention

A new sex education program for Muslim teens, Sex Education in the Mosque, has been developed to address HIV prevention and promote abstinence. The program, grounded in Islamic teachings, showed significant gains in knowledge and positive attitudes among adolescent participants.

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.

Mystery over decline in sea turtle sightings

Researchers have found a decline in sea turtle sightings off the coasts of the UK and Ireland over the past few decades. The study suggests that factors such as climate change, prey availability, and environmental disasters may be influencing this trend.

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.

Big babies could be at higher risk of common heart rhythm disorder in adulthood

Research suggests that individuals born with high birth weights may be at higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation later in life. A study found that participants with a birth weight 482 grams above the average were 30% more likely to develop the heart rhythm disorder. The researchers recommend adopting a healthy lifestyle and payi...

Losing flight had huge benefits for ants, finds new study

Researchers found that loss of flight allowed ants to reorganize their thorax muscles, increasing strength and power. This adaptation enabled worker ants to carry heavy loads back to their colonies, a key factor in their social success.

Wearable pressure-sensitive devices for medical use

Researchers at Terasaki Institute create wearable pressure-sensitive devices using a gelatin-based hydrogel that offers superior elastic properties and skin compatibility. The device enables real-time monitoring of vital signs with high sensitivity and consistency.

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.

Old methods prove true for studying proteins

A team of scientists from KAUST has rediscovered the value of an old technique in studying proteins through NMR spectroscopy. By re-examining the molecular motions of proteins, they found that dynamic NOE provides more accurate information about protein flexibility and is less prone to errors, especially in flexible regions.

Results from the OPTIMIZE trial reported at TCT Connect

The OPTIMIZE trial found that the new stent did not meet non-inferiority criteria due to high TVMI rates from high-sensitivity troponin biomarkers. However, independent analyses demonstrate non-inferiority with comparable relative non-inferiority margin, suggesting potential for improved clinical outcomes

Results from the COBRA-REDUCE trial reported at TCT Connect

A randomized trial comparing a nano-coated coronary stent with shorter dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) to a drug-eluting stent (DES) with guideline-recommended DAPT duration found no reduction in bleeding or thrombotic events. The study included 996 patients and found the rate of bleeding in the test group was 7.5% compared to 8.9% i...

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.

Echo from the past makes rice paddies a good home for wetland plants

Researchers found that rice paddies with a history of being wetlands support more wetland plant species. Land consolidation and agricultural abandonment negatively impact biodiversity. The study's findings may inform conservation efforts and promote sustainable agriculture in the Asian monsoon region.

Results from HOST-REDUCE-POLYTECH-ACS trial reported at TCT Connect

A randomized trial found that durable polymer drug-eluting stents are non-inferior to biodegradable polymers in patients with acute coronary syndrome, with a higher risk of device-oriented composite endpoint. The study suggests improved outcomes for patients with significant coronary stenosis and eligible for stent implantation.

Molecular design strategy reveals near infrared-absorbing hydrocarbon

The researchers synthesized a unique molecule that absorbs near infrared light, despite having only hydrogen and carbon atoms. The molecule's narrow gap between its highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) makes it useful for developing next-generation solid-state materials.

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.

Unique adaptations allow owls to rule the night

Researchers found genes involved in sensory perception showed accelerated evolution, including those for light perception, dim-light vision, and retina development. The study also identified 32 genes related to DNA packaging and chromosome condensation, which may enable owls to channel light more efficiently.

Results from the DEFINE-FLOW study reported at TCT Connect

The DEFINE-FLOW study found that vessels with abnormal FFR (<0.8) but intact CFR (>=2.0) do not have non-inferior outcomes compared to those with normal FFR and CFR when treated medically. The study's results suggest that invasive CFR assessment may not be necessary for lesions with preserved coronary flow reserve.

OnSight Medical wins TCT Connect 2020 Shark Tank Innovation Competition

OnSight Medical's AI-based software provides real-time expert-level scans with high-quality 4D images, enhancing access to cardiac ultrasound in underserved populations. The company won the TCT Connect 2020 Shark Tank Innovation Competition and received a $200,000 award from the Jon DeHaan Foundation.

NASA supercomputing study breaks ground for tree mapping, carbon research

Scientists mapped the location and size of over 1.8 billion trees using powerful supercomputers and machine learning algorithms, discovering billions of trees in arid regions. The study provides vital information for researchers, policymakers, and conservationists, including accurate counts of trees and their carbon storage potential.

New study highlights the role of risk communication in coping with COVID-19

A new study by psychologists at Zhengzhou Normal University found that effective risk communication mitigates emotional contagion and anxiety, while inconsistent findings suggest a reciprocal correlation between anxiety and risk communication. The study analyzed data from January to February 2020 and showed that prevention activities w...

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.

Virginia Tech researchers still have much to learn from flying snakes

Virginia Tech researchers are exploring the biomechanics of snake flight, focusing on undulation patterns that allow the snakes to glide through the air. They aim to uncover the fundamental fluid mechanics underlying this complex behavior, which could lead to advancements in robotics and aerodynamics.

The mental health impact of pandemics for front line health care staff

Research from the University of East Anglia found that nearly a quarter of healthcare workers experienced PTSD symptoms during acute pandemic phases, with elevated levels of mental distress also reported. The study aims to inform hospital managers on resources required to support staff through difficult times.

Calcium bursts kill drug-resistant tumor cells

Researchers developed nanoparticles that release bursts of calcium inside tumor cells, inhibiting drug pumps and reversing MDR. The treatment showed significantly smaller tumors in tumor-bearing mice with no apparent side effects.

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.

Surrey is leading the way in perovskite tandem solar cells

The University of Surrey has made significant advancements in perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving higher power conversion efficiencies through adjustments to thickness and the development of more effective protective layers. This progress holds promise for accelerating commercialization and promoting a shift towards green energy.

Researchers discover a uniquely quantum effect in erasing information

The researchers found that even in ideal conditions, quantum superposition leads to rare events with higher heat dissipation than the Landauer limit, which challenges traditional understanding of information erasure. This finding has significant implications for future quantum chips and thermodynamics.

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.

The future of krill

Krill experts recommend a new management system to address fluctuations in abundances, migration patterns, and environmental conditions affecting the species. The goal is to provide CCAMLR with the latest knowledge on krill stocks to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Trees prefer the big city life

A study found that trees in larger cities are healthier and more productive than those in less dense areas, with red maples being the most productive in urban environments. The research highlights the importance of planting the right tree species in cities to support ecological resilience.

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.

Fats fighting back against bacteria

Scientists found that lipid droplets are not only used as an energy source but also act as a weapon against bacterial invaders. These fatty droplets can be used to target and kill bacteria, providing a new way to fight infection.

World's greatest mass extinction triggered switch to warm-bloodedness

The Permian-Triassic mass extinction marked the origin of endothermy in both synapsids and archosaurs, with evidence suggesting a 'switch' around 250 million years ago. This coincided with the emergence of erect posture and hair in mammal ancestors, as well as feathers in bird ancestors.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Suicide prevention in COVID-19 era

A new study emphasizes the importance of suicide prevention in the COVID-19 era, highlighting both pandemic-specific and prepandemic risk factors. The authors stress the need for a multifaceted approach to address these risks, leveraging political will and federal investments to support vulnerable populations.

Catholic OB-GYNs can face moral dilemmas in issues of family planning

A study reveals that Catholic obstetrician-gynecologists experience moral dilemmas when dealing with family planning and abortion, with some providing natural methods only and others offering full ranges of services. The findings highlight the complex relationship between religion and medicine.

Membranes for capturing carbon dioxide from the air

Membrane-based Direct Air Capture (m-DAC) technology has been developed to efficiently capture CO2 from ambient air. The technology uses organic polymer membranes to separate carbon dioxide with high efficiency and competitive energy expenses.

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.

Researchers examining computational & biological approach to flow diversion

Researchers use 3-D rotational angiography images and data on flow-diverting devices to construct computational fluid dynamics models of cerebral aneurysms. They investigate hemodynamic differences between immediate occlusions and long-term patency, as well as possible causes of hemorrhages after treatment.