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Science News Archive September 2020


Page 5 of 49

Marine biodiversity reshuffles under warmer and sea ice-free Pacific Arctic

Research by Hokkaido University scientists finds that warming waters and sea ice-free conditions in the Pacific Arctic will lead to significant changes in marine community compositions. Larger fish and invertebrates are expected to expand their ranges towards the pole, altering ecosystem structure and functions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

Microcomb-injected pulsed lasers as variable microwave gears

Researchers developed a novel method to generate variable low-noise microwaves using an optical microresonator frequency comb and a compact laser. The approach allows for significant frequency tunability and improved phase-noise levels compared to traditional methods.

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.

INRS researchers develop a new membraneless fuel cell

The new membraneless fuel cell, developed by INRS researchers, powers an LED for four hours using only 234 microlitres of methanol. The device uses selective electrodes to minimize crossover and can be optimized to use ethanol, a greener fuel.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Validating the physics behind the new MIT-designed fusion experiment

The SPARC project has published seven research papers outlining the physics behind the ambitious reactor design, with calculations suggesting a Q ratio of 10 or more. The device aims to achieve a 'burning plasma,' a self-sustaining fusion reaction, which is crucial for developing practical power-generating plants.

Driving behavior less 'robotic' thanks to new Delft model

Researchers developed a new model that describes driving behavior based on a 'human' principle: managing risk below a threshold level. The model can accurately predict human behavior in various driving tasks and may be used in intelligent cars to reduce their 'robotic' feel.

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.

Girls benefit from doing sports

A new Canadian study found that girls who participate in school sports activities during middle childhood show improved behaviour and attentiveness in early adolescence. The study, led by Linda Pagani, suggests that extracurricular sports can be a positive approach to promote psychological well-being and reduce ADHD symptoms in girls.

Preferences for public allocation of vaccine for COVID-19

A survey study explores public preferences for COVID-19 vaccine allocation. The results show that most people prioritize vaccine distribution to high-risk groups, including seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions. This preference is expected to influence healthcare policy decisions.

Brain circuitry shaped by competition for space as well as genetics

A new computer modelling study suggests that simple interactions between nerve cells contribute to the development of complex brain circuits, making a precise genetic blueprint unnecessary. The findings help answer how the brain wires itself during development and may inform new ways to treat conditions that disrupt brain circuits.

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.

Prostate cancer: immunotherapy offers hope

A phase 3 clinical trial found that ipilimumab improved progression-free survival by two to three times in patients with metastasized, castration-resistant prostate cancer. The treatment also showed overall survival benefits compared to the placebo arm.

Smart cruise control steers drivers toward better decisions

A team of researchers developed a cooperative adaptive cruise control model that uses streaming data to predict the driving states of preceding vehicles, reducing congestion and traffic accidents. The model can be tested using actual connected, autonomous vehicles and could create a safer future for everyone sharing the road.

Plant droplets serve as nutrient-rich food for insects

A Rutgers-led study reveals that small water droplets on plant leaves are rich in carbohydrates and proteins, essential for insect survival. This discovery has profound implications for the conservation of beneficial insects and could reduce pest problems in various crops.

New fire containment research addresses risk and safety

Researchers at Colorado State University developed a decision support prototype to help fire managers tailor suppression responses to local conditions. The tool addresses complexities by organizing information on ecological, social, and policy factors.

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.

Cardiac arrhythmias linked to gene mutations

Researchers discovered a link between gene mutations in SCN2B and SCN4B genes and cardiac arrhythmias. The study sheds light on the role of sodium V channels in maintaining heart function and may lead to new treatments for cardiac syndromes.

Scientists studied nanoparticles embedded in silver-ion-exchanged glasses

Researchers from Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University successfully created silver nanoparticles in an ion-exchanged glass using infrared nanosecond laser pulses. The nanoparticles demonstrate surface plasmon resonance, enabling signal enhancement of up to 10^6 times in Raman spectroscopy.

Breast cancer medication risk

A new study published in Frontiers In Oncology found a negative association between beta-blocker use and survival outcomes in patients with HER2 positive advanced breast cancer. The research highlights a subgroup of patients whose survival outcomes are poorer and calls for further investigation to improve treatment outcomes.

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.

A cancer shredder

Researchers at University of Würzburg developed a drug that can disarm Aurora-A kinase, a protein that causes extensive damage in cancers like leukemias and neuroblastomas. The new PROTAC substance completely degrades the Aurora protein in cancer cells, leading to cell death.

Understanding the effect of aging on the genome

Researchers analyzed gene expression in liver, heart, and muscle tissues of aging mice to define an 'aging footprint.' This data helped identify genes and proteins controlling the aging process, which may also be relevant in human aging. The study's findings have implications for understanding age-related diseases.

Especially important for older men need to stay hydrated

Research reveals that older adults are less able to regulate body temperature and hydration during exercise in hot environments due to decreased sensitivity to elevated blood osmolality. This can lead to increased risk of heat-related injuries and adverse heart problems, highlighting the importance of staying hydrated.

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.

New mechanism for anti-infection effects of dietary fiber

Researchers found that dietary fiber-derived fatty acids activate macrophage activity against Salmonella infection by binding to apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), triggering inflammasome activation. This new mechanism provides insights into the effects of dietary fiber on the immune system.

Inflammatory gene provides clue to obesity risk

A study from the University of Queensland found that a gene controlling inflammation increases the risk of obesity. Researchers discovered that variations in this gene lead to excessive inflammation in fat tissue, contributing to weight gain. By turning off the gene in mice, they were able to prevent weight gain and reduce diabetes risk

Mussels connect antibodies to treat cancer

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a novel immunotherapy platform called imuGlue, which connects mussel adhesive proteins to antibodies used in immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Lessons from a cooling climate

A team of researchers has applied their model to the emergence of Southeast Asia, finding that volcanic rock provinces in the tropics are a major factor in determining CO2 levels. This discovery sheds light on our current climate crisis and provides insights into how geological processes can help mitigate its effects.

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.

Study reveals dietary fructose heightens inflammatory bowel disease

A new study suggests that high fructose intake exacerbates intestinal inflammation common to IBD, potentially worsening the condition for patients. Researchers found that a western diet, including fructose, is associated with increasing rates of obesity and diabetes, which may further increase IBD risk.

Scientists got one step closer to solving a major problem of hydrogen energy

A team of scientists from Far Eastern Federal University and their colleagues developed a way to hydrogenate thin metallic glass layers at room temperature, which can expand the range of cheap, energy-efficient materials for hydrogen energy. Metallic glass has potential to replace expensive palladium in hydrogen systems.

Achieving clean air for all is possible

A new study shows that clean air is achievable globally with policy interventions in multiple sectors, including environmental policies, energy and climate policies, and agricultural production system transformation. The required measures would also contribute to sustainable development and human development goals.

New discovery helps researchers rethink organoid cultures

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have made a groundbreaking discovery about organoids, stem cell-based tissue surrogates that mimic organs. The team found that organoids on the edges of an extracellular matrix dome respond differently to stimuli compared to those in the center, potentially leading to misleading results.

A revised map of where working memory resides in the brain

Researchers found that working memory is not confined to one brain area but requires synchronous activity of at least two regions. Gpr12 receptors in the thalamus are essential for establishing synchrony between the prefrontal cortex and other brain areas, leading to improved working memory performance.

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.

Genetic gains for better grains

Researchers from KAUST analyzed fonio millet genomes to identify genes that could lead to higher yields and larger grains. The study found two genes, DeGs5-3A and DeSh1-9A, which were artificially selected for their larger grain size.

Detecting fake online photos, videos with a computerized brain

Researchers at University of Missouri are developing an AI-powered detection system to identify and prevent deepfakes. The system will learn from a small number of examples and self-evolve to detect evolving techniques, providing real-time alerts to smartphone users.

Surplus sugar helps whiteflies detoxify plant defenses

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have found that surplus sugar from honeydew secretions by whiteflies is used to detoxify plant toxins. The discovery of a novel glucosylation pathway reveals how whiteflies prevent activation of mustard oil bomb in cruciferous plants.

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.

Human dispersal into Iberia

Researchers reveal modern human presence in central Portugal at least 41,100 years ago, contradicting previous timing. The findings suggest a rapid spread into southern Europe after arrival in northern Iberia, with Neanderthal populations dwindling due to environmental factors.

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.

Roboticizing fabrics

Scientists created a new type of fabric that can change shape and support loads, using heat-responsive alloy, stiff composite fibers, and conductive ink. The robotic fabric was used to make a tourniquet and napkin-sized sheet that can fold into a box supporting up to 50g of weight.

Copycat plant booster improves on nature

Researchers have designed a synthetic molecule that mimics the function of zaxinone, a natural growth-promoting plant metabolite, to improve root growth and limit Striga infestation in rice plants. The new molecule, MiZax3, has shown excellent activity and stability, with two mimics performing even better than zaxinone itself.