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Science News Archive April 2020 - Page 18


Page 18 of 37

Catalyst enables reactions with the help of green light

Chemists have developed a titanium catalyst that makes light usable for selective chemical reactions, producing highly selective products that can be used for antiviral drugs or luminescent dyes. The new catalyst uses green light to trigger reactions without destroying organic compounds.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 20, 2020

Silent, airborne transmission likely to be a key factor in scarlet fever outbreaks

Research suggests airborne transmission is a key factor in the spread of scarlet fever, with infected individuals shedding virus even without symptoms. The study found that classroom contacts were heavily infected and shed GAS despite being symptom-free, highlighting the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 20, 2020

Continued CO2 emissions will impair cognition

A new study led by CU Boulder suggests that continued CO2 emissions will significantly reduce our basic decision-making ability and complex strategic thinking. Indoor CO2 levels could reach up to 1400 parts per million, leading to a 25% reduction in basic decision-making ability and a 50% reduction in complex strategic thinking.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeoHealth·DateApr 20, 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.

Finding leukemia's weakness using genome-wide CRISPR technology

A team of researchers used genome-wide CRISPR technology to identify RNA-binding proteins, including Staufen2, that sustain and protect drug-resistant leukemia stem cells. Loss of Staufen2 led to a reduction in leukemia growth and improved survival in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Cancer·DateApr 20, 2020

Changes in snowmelt threaten farmers in western US

Farmers in parts of the western United States will be among the hardest hit by climate change, which will reduce seasonal water availability for irrigation. The study found that basins globally most at risk include the San Joaquin and Colorado river basins, where snowmelt runoff is projected to decrease significantly.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 20, 2020

Infant temperament predicts personality more than 20 years later

A long-term study found that infant behavioral inhibition is linked to a more reserved personality and higher levels of internalizing psychopathology in adulthood. The research also identified a neurophysiological marker, error-related negativity, as a potential predictor of risk for developing anxiety disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 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.

Chris Vanderwal to receive Springer Heterocyclic Chemistry Award 2020

Chris Vanderwal has made significant contributions to the field of heterocyclic chemistry, particularly in the development of short chemical synthesis strategies for natural products. He is being recognized for his outstanding research on complex, bioactive natural compounds with various therapeutic properties.

SourceSpringer·DateApr 20, 2020

Virtual reality makes empathy easier

New research uses virtual reality to increase identification with others by activating brain networks, aiding in treatment of violent offenders. The technology also helps improve understanding and relationships by simulating multi-sensory feedback.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 20, 2020

Police training reduced complaints and use of force against civilians

A Northwestern University evaluation found that a procedural justice training program reduced complaints by 10% and use of force by 6%. The training, which typically takes one day, emphasizes transparency and responding to community concerns.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Large population study links blood infection with certain bacteria to increased risk of colorectal cancer

A large population study found a significant association between blood infections with anaerobic bacteria and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study revealed that infections with specific bacteria, such as Clostridium septicum and Bacteroides ovatus, were linked to a substantial increased risk of CRC.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 20, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Turning on the 'off switch' in cancer cells

Researchers at Michigan Medicine and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center identified the binding site where drug compounds can activate a key braking mechanism against cancer. This discovery paves the way for developing new anti-cancer drugs that enhance tumor suppressor proteins.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2020

Cholera studies reveal mechanisms of biofilm formation and hyperinfectivity

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the mechanisms of cholera biofilm formation and hyperinfectivity. Biofilms are found to be highly infectious due to primed virulence factors, with bacteria already producing toxins before infection occurs.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2020

Rating pain: Not just a numbers game

A new study found that almost 4 out of 5 patients with moderate pain intensity considered it tolerable, and 30-40% of those with severe pain also described it as tolerable. This suggests an alternative to traditional 0-10 rating scales could help doctors better understand patient needs.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 20, 2020
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.

Scientists discover new features of molecular elevator

Researchers visualize nearly complete transport cycle of mammalian glutamate transporter homologue, revealing efficient mechanism for sodium and substrate molecules. The discovery sheds light on potential treatments for schizophrenia and other mental illnesses.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 19, 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.

Study identifies last-line antibiotic resistance in humans and pet dog

A study found the dangerous mcr-1 gene in two healthy humans and a pet dog in Portugal, providing resistance to colistin, an antibiotic of last resort. The presence of this gene in humans and animals raises concerns about potential transmission and the emergence of untreatable infections.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 19, 2020

CSIRO unlocks new way to understand evolving strains of SARS-CoV-2

Researchers from CSIRO unveiled a new approach to analyzing the genetic codes of SARS-CoV-2, helping understand how strains evolve and identify new clusters. The findings will aid in tracking the virus's progression and informing vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·DateApr 19, 2020

Study suggests pets are not a major source of transmission of drug-resistant microbes to their owners

A new study has investigated the role of pet care in the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) among hospital patients. The research found no significant difference in pet care or closeness of contact to pets between MDRO-positive and MDRO-negative patients, with only a small percentage of pet owners and their pets infected.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 19, 2020

Latest findings from expanded research on Antarctic meteorology and climate

A recent special issue of Advances in Atmospheric Sciences presents the latest findings from expanded and ongoing research efforts in Antarctic meteorology and climate. The studies reveal signs of climate change, including strong warming over the Antarctic Peninsula, rapid ice loss, and changes in precipitation patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 19, 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.

Nanobodies hold the key to imaging COVID-19

Nanobodies have been isolated and made available for researchers to study the 'spike' protein of SARS-CoV-2 virus. These proteins can stabilise the 'spike', enabling better imaging at an atomic scale, which could lead to new diagnostics and treatments.

SourceThe Rosalind Franklin Institute·DateApr 18, 2020

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers from the National Institute for Infectious Diseases in Italy have reported an early detection of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in ocular fluids from a patient with COVID-19. The study found prolonged viral RNA detection, highlighting the need for continued vigilance in monitoring the pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 17, 2020

COVID-19 possibly striking more children than expected

A new study estimates that for every child requiring intensive care for COVID-19, there are 2,381 children infected with the virus. The US CDC and state health departments should begin reporting confirmed cases by age group to understand the true extent of the outbreak.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateApr 17, 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.

Stem cells in human embryos commit to specialization surprisingly early

A team of researchers at the Francis Crick Institute identified early-commitment genes that trigger irreversible cell specialization in human embryos. These genes, which include GATA3, activate a positive feedback loop, ensuring cells remain differentiated and do not reverse back to a stem cell state.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 17, 2020

Valorizing wastewater can improve commercial viability of biomass oil production

Researchers at University of Illinois develop six approaches to treat hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous phase, including separation of chemicals and bioelectrochemical systems. These methods aim to valorize the wastewater byproduct, highlighting potential for sustainable oil production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProgress in Energy and Combustion Science·DateApr 17, 2020

To warn or to hide from predators?: New computer simulation provides answers

A new computer model, ApoSim, simulates the evolution of various prey behaviors, including permanent and switchable warning signals. The model explores how predators' learning speeds impact evolutionary outcomes, providing insights into the diversity of prey defenses.

SourceLaboratory of Behavioral Ecology and Evolution at Seoul National University·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 17, 2020

Mismanagment, not tampering, at root of supply problems for Ugandan farmers

A recent study by UConn researchers found that mismanagement and inadequate infrastructure are the root causes of supply problems for Ugandan farmers. The study revealed discrepancies in the quality of agricultural supplies like seeds and fertilizers due to improper handling, not adulteration.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalWorld Development·DateApr 17, 2020
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.

Can sub-Saharan Africa achieve sustainable access to energy for all by 2030?

A IIASA study reveals sub-Saharan Africa needs to triple its electrification pace to achieve universal access to affordable, reliable energy services by 2030. The region faces a daunting challenge with nearly 570 million people without electricity and limited grid infrastructure in rural areas.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateApr 17, 2020

Exercise during pregnancy reduces obesity among offspring

A study published in Science Advances found that exercise during pregnancy stimulates the production of brown adipose tissue in fetuses, leading to improved metabolic health and reduced obesity. The findings suggest that physically fit women exercising during pregnancy may be setting their children up for better fitness too.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 17, 2020

Modeling social distancing strategies for curbing the COVID-19 pandemic

A new modeling study projects that COVID-19 will persist in the human population after its initial pandemic stage, depending on human immunity. The study finds that social distancing measures may need to be maintained intermittently into 2022 to control the spread of the virus.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 2020

Papua New Guinea highland research redates Neolithic period

Researchers in Papua New Guinea have found evidence of early agriculture and trade routes dating back to 5050-4200 years ago. This discovery challenges previous assumptions of the Neolithic period and sheds light on the development of cultural diversity in the region.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 17, 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.

A key brain region for controlling binge drinking has been found

A study by Medical University of South Carolina researchers identified a specific brain region and system that can be manipulated to decrease binge drinking. The kappa opioid-receptor system plays a crucial role in driving binge and compulsive alcohol use, as well as contributing to stress and unease during withdrawal.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalNeuropharmacology·DateApr 17, 2020

Two novel viruses identified in Brazilian patients with suspected dengue

Researchers have identified two novel viruses in Brazilian patients with suspected dengue, one from the Ambidensovirus genus and the other from Chapparvovirus. The study used metagenomics to analyze blood samples and found an unexpected presence of these viruses in human hosts.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 17, 2020

Researchers identify a model of COVID-19 infection in nonhuman primates

Cynomolgus macaques infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibit mild symptoms and high viral RNA levels, shedding the virus from respiratory tract early during infection. The results suggest these animals are suitable for testing COVID-19 control measures and therapeutics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 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.

Africa in the path of COVID-19

Global experts call for international assistance as African nations battle COVID-19 and HIV. The authors argue that success in one country is limited if epidemics continue elsewhere.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 17, 2020

Relying on 'local food' is a distant dream for most of the world

A recent study found that only 27% of the world's population can get temperate cereal grains within a 100 km radius, highlighting the difficulty of relying solely on local resources. The study modeled global distances between crop production and consumption, revealing complex dependencies in current diets.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Food·DateApr 17, 2020

Histones and their modifications are crucial for adaptation to cell stress

A study by IRB Barcelona's Cell Signaling laboratory found that histone modifications regulate response to cellular stress, including heat and salt stress. The researchers identified over 200 amino acid regions in histones that undergo modifications under stress, allowing for personalized adaptation.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 17, 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.

Lactic acid bacteria present in kimchi cabbage and garlic carry out the fermentation

Researchers identified the origin source of lactic acid bacteria responsible for kimchi fermentation, revealing that ingredients such as ginger and red pepper do not contribute to fermentation. The study found three unique fermentative microbes specific to each ingredient, resulting in distinct flavor profiles.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalFood Chemistry·DateApr 17, 2020

Study detects presence of disease-causing E. coli in recreational waters, including in bathing waters rated excellent under EU criteria

A recent study found disease-causing E. coli in recreational waters across Ireland, including those rated excellent under EU criteria. The research highlights the limitations of current water quality assessments, which only consider total E. coli counts without accounting for pathogenic variants.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 17, 2020

From watching reruns to relationships, there are many ways of feeling connected

New research from the University at Buffalo suggests that non-traditional social strategies, such as 'guilty pleasures,' can fulfill critical social needs just like traditional ones. Studies show that feeling connected through various means, including music, TV shows, or pets, predicts positive outcomes and is essential for well-being.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSelf and Identity·DateApr 17, 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.

A new treatment for liver cancer

Researchers at Skoltech and MIT have developed a new combinatorial therapy for liver cancer using a siRNA approach coupled with lipid nanoparticle technology. This treatment caused a significant decrease in tumor load in a mouse model of hepatocellular carcinoma.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateApr 17, 2020

Shin & Borup receive funding for webinar series about online teaching

Researchers Joan Kang Shin and Jered Borup developed a three-webinar series and wrote three blogs to support English teachers worldwide in remote learning. The webinars, recorded and posted on National Geographic Learning's website, focused on engaging students and building a supportive classroom environment.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateApr 17, 2020

Cell biology: Your number's up!

The study found that an mRNA molecule's lifetime is correlated with the rate of protein synthesis, and a key protein complex plays a crucial role in this process. The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to identify the molecular basis for the link between mRNA degradation and ribosomal efficiency.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateApr 17, 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.