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Science News Archive October 2020 - Page 6


Page 6 of 47

Multi-drone system autonomously surveys penguin colonies

The new multi-drone imaging system coordinates multiple autonomous drones to produce detailed visual surveys of penguin colonies, reducing survey time from two days to two-and-a-half hours. The system uses a route planning algorithm that prioritizes efficient coverage and maintains a safe distance from the ground.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Robotics·DateOct 28, 2020

Why are some COVID-19 infected people asymptomatic?

Researchers found that alveolar macrophages fail to produce interferons when infected with SARS-CoV-2, allowing the virus to evade detection by the immune system. This suggests that asymptomatic individuals may be spreading the virus without knowing it.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateOct 28, 2020

LaserNetUS receives $18 million from US Department of Energy

LaserNetUS, a high-power laser consortium including Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, receives $18 million from the US Department of Energy. The funding will support user support and expand LaserNetUS operations for three years.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateOct 28, 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.

How hard is it to vote in your state?

A new analysis identifies US states that make voting easiest and those that make it more challenging. States like Oregon, Washington, Utah, Illinois, and Maryland offer convenient options such as online registration, early voting, and mail-in voting.

SourceNorthern Illinois University·JournalElection Law Journal Rules Politics and Policy·DateOct 28, 2020

Infrared light antenna powers molecular motor

Scientists at the University of Groningen designed a rotary motor powered by near-infrared light, overcoming a major limitation of previous designs. The motor uses an antenna to absorb two low-energy photons, which are then transferred to initiate movement.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 28, 2020
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.

Study finds seabird ecosystem shift in Falkland islands

A study led by University of Wyoming researcher Dulcinea Groff found that seabird populations in the South Atlantic are shifting their habitats due to climate change, with many species moving to new breeding grounds. The research also highlights the importance of nutrients from seabird guano for maintaining tussac grasslands.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 28, 2020

Waiter! This soup is not fly

New research highlights barriers to adopting insect-based food, including Western consumer acceptance and safety concerns. The larvae offer a high-quality protein source with zinc, iron, and calcium content comparable to meat.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalComprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety·DateOct 28, 2020

Graphdiyne based metal atomic catalyst for efficient ammonia synthesis

Researchers have developed a graphdiyne-based metal atomic catalyst that achieves high selectivity and yield in ammonia synthesis. The catalyst, which exhibits determined electronic and chemical structure, demonstrated remarkable performance in converting nitrogen to ammonia at ambient temperatures and pressures.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 28, 2020

Seafood extinction risk: Marine bivalves in peril?

Researchers used fossil records to estimate extinction risk in marine bivalves, finding that many harvested species are widespread and tolerant of environmental changes. However, the study highlights the need for more complete data on human impact to inform conservation efforts.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateOct 28, 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.

Fish banks

A new model forecasts that strategically placing marine protected areas can improve fish populations and increase local catch. The research suggests that protecting an additional 5% of the ocean could boost future catches by 9-12 million metric tons.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 28, 2020

Menstrual dysfunction is more common among young athletes than among non-athletes

A recent study found that young Finnish athletes experience higher rates of menstrual dysfunction compared to non-athletes. However, athletes reported lower levels of body weight dissatisfaction. The study suggests that low energy availability may contribute to menstrual dysfunction in young athletes.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateOct 28, 2020

Answer to Darwin's question

A study of young cichlid species in Nicaraguan crater lakes found that new species can arise within a few hundred years through the involvement of many genes. This contradicts previous theories suggesting that speciation is a slow process driven by simple genetic changes.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature·DateOct 28, 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.

Study helps explain why motivation to learn declines with age

As people age, their motivation to learn declines. Researchers identified a brain circuit critical for maintaining this motivation and found that it can be boosted in older mice by reactivating the circuit, which was previously shown to suppress motivation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateOct 28, 2020

Good mental health and better sleep for the physically active

Active individuals showed lower incidence of anxiety and depression compared to non-active individuals during the pandemic, despite reduced exercise. The study found a connection between physical activity, mental health, and sleep problems, but no difference in sleep quality among those who changed their exercise habits.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSleep Medicine·DateOct 28, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Adults with endocrine disorders have an increased risk of heart disease

The Endocrine Society's Clinical Practice Guideline emphasizes the importance of evaluating high cholesterol and triglycerides in adults with endocrine disorders. The guideline provides recommendations for managing lipid abnormalities and cardiovascular risk in patients with hypothyroidism, menopause, and Cushing's syndrome.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 28, 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.

How computer scientists and marketers can create a better CX with AI

A new paper examines AI's tension between benefits and costs, offering recommendations for marketers to create valued consumer experiences. The study provides a framework that conceptualizes AI as an ecosystem with four capabilities, focusing on the consumer experience of these capabilities.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 28, 2020

Genetic analysis system yields new insights into bacterial pneumonia

Scientists used CRISPR interference to study virulence genes in a mouse model of pneumonia, observing surprising variability in disease progression. The results point to several genes as having important roles in pneumococcal infections, including the bacterial capsule genes and the gene for pneumolysin.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 28, 2020

Severe form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease linked to a strain of mouth bacteria

A strain of oral bacteria has been found to be associated with severe ulcerative colitis. The discovery offers new avenues for research into the prevention and treatment of IBD. Researchers believe that targeting the oral cavity could help reduce the load of the bacteria, potentially leading to new therapies.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalMicrobial Genomics·DateOct 28, 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.

The chemistry behind self-driving cars

A new article explains how chemistry can help develop materials necessary for fully autonomous vehicles, including efficient batteries and structural materials. Safety features such as sensors and nonstick coatings are also crucial to reducing maintenance and enhancing safety.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 28, 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.

NTU spin-off ARTICARES launches portable arm rehabilitation device

The H-Man robot is a compact, affordable solution for post-stroke patients to practice intensive exercises at home or in community-based settings. Clinical trials show significant improvement in upper-limb mobility and long-term retention of learning.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies Engineering·DateOct 28, 2020

Topology gets magnetic: The new wave of topological magnetic materials

Researchers develop new method to classify magnetic topological materials, identifying thousands of potential compounds with unique properties. This breakthrough could lead to significant advances in thermoelectric converters, quantum computers, and magnetic storage media.

SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Mikrostrukturphysik·JournalNature·DateOct 28, 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.

Nudges fail more often than is reported, experts warn

Researchers found that certain types of nudges, such as social norming and information-based interventions, were more likely to fail. The study suggests that understanding the reasons behind these failures can help develop successful behavioral interventions.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateOct 28, 2020

Black hole 'family portrait' is most detailed to date

A team of scientists has created the most detailed family portrait of black holes to date, analyzing gravitational-wave data from LIGO and Virgo detectors. The study reveals new clues about black hole formation and tests Einstein's theory of general relativity, passing all tests with flying colors.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateOct 28, 2020

Cracking the secrets of dinosaur eggshells

Researchers compare microstructure and composition of five Mexican dinosaur eggs to determine the unknown eggshell's species. The study finds that the unknown sample closely resembles ornithopod shells, supporting hypothesis it belongs to the hadrosaur family.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateOct 28, 2020

Location and extent of coral reefs mapped worldwide using advanced AI

Researchers at Arizona State University have generated a global coral reef extent map using advanced AI, predicting the location of shallow reefs with nearly 90% accuracy. The map was created by analyzing thousands of satellite images and is now available through the Allen Coral Atlas.

SourceArizona State University·JournalCoral Reefs·DateOct 28, 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.

Mountain gorillas are good neighbours - up to a point

New research by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and University of Exeter reveals that mountain gorilla groups are more likely to be friendly with each other when they meet again, even if they had split over a decade earlier. This behavior is similar to human friendships and may help the group share limited space and resources.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateOct 28, 2020

Soil-powered fuel cell promises cheap, sustainable water purification

Engineers at the University of Bath have demonstrated the potential of soil microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) to purify water in field tests in North-East Brazil. SMFCs can generate energy from microorganisms naturally present in soil, which are able to transfer electrons outside their cells.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalApplied Energy·DateOct 28, 2020

Specific and rapid expansion of blood vessels

Scientists have discovered a novel mechanism to increase arterial diameter by selectively increasing endothelial cell size, allowing for rapid increases in blood flow. This approach has significant advantages over conventional angiogenesis methods, enabling faster restoration of blood flow and oxygen delivery.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 2020

Socio-demographic determinants of overweight and obesity among mothers in South Africa

Research in rural South Africa identifies socio-economic factors as key drivers of overweight and obesity among mothers. The study found that decision-making authority, income level, and family size significantly affect women's health, highlighting the need for evidence-based policies to tackle the region's obesity epidemic.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Public Health Journal·DateOct 28, 2020
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.

Direct observation of a single electron's butterfly-shaped distribution in titanium oxide

Researchers at Nagoya University have directly observed the spatial distribution of a single valence electron in titanium oxide, revealing a butterfly-shaped distribution. The new Fourier synthesis method, called core differential Fourier synthesis (CDFS), can determine orbital states in materials regardless of their physical properties.

SourceNagoya University·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateOct 28, 2020

Secrets of 'smasher shrimp' property ladder revealed

Mantis shrimps surveyed burrows before evicting rivals, with the ideal burrow size found to be a balance between being large enough to fit into and small enough to block entry. The species, known for their powerful strikes, compromise on burrow size when faced with occupied homes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateOct 28, 2020

The National Human Genome Research Institute publishes new vision for human genomics

The National Human Genome Research Institute has published its 2020 Strategic Vision, which describes cutting-edge research priorities and opportunities in human genomics. The vision identifies four focus areas: guiding principles, sustaining and improving genomic research, breaking down barriers, and compelling biomedicine projects.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 28, 2020

An artificial cell on a chip

Scientists at the Swiss Nanoscience Institute create miniature polymeric reaction containers, mimicking cellular compartments to study enzymatic reactions. The 'cell on a chip' technology provides precise control over enzyme combinations and transport, facilitating research into metabolic diseases and drug reactions.

SourceSwiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 28, 2020
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.

JNIS: brain-computer allows patients with severe paralysis to text, email, bank

Researchers developed a fully implantable wireless medical device that enables patients with severe paralysis to control computers, smartphones, and other devices without open brain surgery. The Stentrode brain-computer interface restored freedoms for individuals with disabilities, such as texting, emailing, shopping online, and banking.

SourceSociety of NeuroInterventional Surgery·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateOct 28, 2020

Genetics and the COVID-19 pandemic

Studies identified genetic variants associated with COVID-19 severity, including a locus on chromosome 3 and novel genes. Researchers also explored therapeutic strategies and transmission dynamics of the virus.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·DateOct 28, 2020

Machine learning helps hunt for COVID-19 therapies

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a deep learning model to predict the binding sites of known protease inhibitors targeting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. The model can help drug developers prioritize promising candidates and save time and money in the early stages of drug development.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalChemical Science·DateOct 28, 2020

Bioenergy research team sequences miscanthus genome

The study provides a genetic road map for researchers to optimize Miscanthus sinensis's desirable traits, including its high tolerance for drought and cool temperatures. The genomic analysis reveals new regulators of perenniality, a trait important for biofuel crops.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 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.

Smart fluorescent molecular switches based on boron-based compounds

Scientists have created extremely stable fluorescent molecular switches that can be controlled electrochemically, using a particular redox active anion. These systems show large reversible fluorescence modulation and are soluble in many organic solvents, making them suitable for applications in biosensing, imaging, and drug delivery.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateOct 28, 2020