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Science News Archive April 2020 - Page 25


Page 25 of 37

People with type 2 diabetes and heart disease may benefit from newer therapies

People with type 2 diabetes and heart disease may benefit from newer therapies that combine glucose control with cardiovascular benefits. These treatments, such as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, have been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events and improve outcomes for patients.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateApr 13, 2020

NEH award will help researchers expand work on architect fay jones

Researchers at the University of Arkansas will expand their current prototype for a touch-based kiosk and interactive website, A House of the Ozarks, using a $250,000 National Endowment for the Humanities grant. The project, Housing the Human and the Sacred, will also include five additional structures designed by Jones.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateApr 13, 2020

Super-charging drug development for COVID-19

A promising COVID-19 drug, valinomycin, has been produced in a cell-free system, achieving higher concentrations than previously achieved in cells. This approach enables faster optimization and increased yields, which could be crucial in the fight against the pandemic.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMetabolic Engineering·DateApr 13, 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.

Illuminating the future of renewable energy

A new photosensitizer compound created by West Virginia University researchers has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of solar panels and other technologies. The compound, made from zirconium, can convert light into electrical energy, making it a more sustainable and cost-effective option for renewable energy.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020

Risk of suicide, homicide, unintentional firearm deaths at home

A study of 647 firearm deaths in homes in King County, Washington from 2011-2018 found that personal protection was cited as a reason for owning a firearm. The researchers discovered that firearm deaths were more likely to be suicide, homicide or unintentional rather than self-defense

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020

Precipitation will be essential for plants to counteract global warming

A new study from Columbia University reveals that the balance between soil water and energy availability determines whether plant growth is limited by precipitation or temperature. This finding highlights the crucial role of precipitation in supporting plant photosynthesis, particularly during the late growing season.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Australian bats as retrovirus reservoirs

Eastern Australian bats harbor diverse KoRV-related viruses, with metagenomic analysis revealing their presence in multiple species. The discovery of a novel retrovirus, Hervey pteropid gammaretrovirus (HPG), suggests that bats can actively reproduce retroviruses.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

Origin of the first known interstellar object 'Oumuamua

Scientists have found that the unique characteristics of interstellar object 'Oumuamua can be explained by tidal forces felt during close encounters with stars. The study suggests that rocky objects like 'Oumuamua could originate from planetary systems, providing a new perspective on their formation and evolution.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020

Making big data processing more energy efficient using magnetic circuits

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a method to make big data processing more energy efficient using magnetic components. By leveraging lateral inhibition in artificial neurons, they achieved an energy reduction of 20-30 times compared to standard back-propagation algorithms.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 13, 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.

Exploring the link between education and climate change

A new study by an international team of researchers finds that improving educational attainment leads to a large improvement in population's vulnerability to climate change. However, it also tends to increase emissions driving climate change, suggesting a tradeoff between these goals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 13, 2020

Inhibition of sphingolipid metabolism and neurodegenerative diseases

Inhibiting sphingolipid metabolism in neurons improves neurodegeneration symptoms and increases survival in a mouse model, according to new research. The findings suggest that compromised sphingolipid metabolism in GARP mutations may be a potential cause of neurodegeneration.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

Plants control microbiome diversity inside leaves to promote health

A new study by Michigan State University scientists reveals that plants have genetic systems to host and nurture the right microbiome, promoting healthy growth. Increased microbiome diversity correlates with plant health, while abnormal compositions lead to tissue damage and symptoms similar to human inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2020

Limitations on end-of-season photosynthesis

A study using satellite data and in-situ sensor observations found that the end date of plant photosynthesis is constrained by both temperature and water limits. As temperatures decrease, soil water demands increase to support continued vegetation growth, potentially leading to expansions of regions with limited photosynthesis.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Economic impacts of olive tree pathogen

A study by Kevin Schneider and colleagues found that the bacterial strain Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca could have significant economic impacts on olive tree cultivation in Greece, Italy, and Spain. Replanting with resistant varieties or removing infected plants can mitigate these losses.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

Offshore oil and gas platforms release more methane than previously estimated

A new study from the University of Michigan found that offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of Mexico emit approximately one-half a teragram of methane each year, comparable to large emitting oil and gas basins. The effective loss rate of produced gas is roughly 2.9%, significantly higher than current inventory estimates.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateApr 13, 2020

Analyzing rising income inequality

Researchers found rising income inequality in private sectors worldwide except Canada and Hungary. Enacting policies to protect low-skilled workers and limit firm outsourcing may help reduce inequality, according to the study.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

The building blocks of gum disease

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have discovered the structure of adhesive pili in Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major bacterial pathogen causing gum disease. The study sheds light on how these pili assemble and provides insights into combating diseases associated with P. gingivalis.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 13, 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.

Foxglove plants produce heart medicine; can science do it better?

Two studies on foxgloves published by University at Buffalo biologist Zhen Wang investigate the production of cardiac glycosides. The research aims to improve the time-consuming and labor-intensive process of farming foxgloves, which currently takes two years to produce a small amount of the compound digoxin.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Chromatography A·DateApr 13, 2020

New model finds countries should work together to control coronavirus, harmful species

A new model developed by Arizona State University researcher Adam Lampert suggests that countries should work together to control the spread of harmful species, including diseases like COVID-19. The model indicates that in some cases, a clear division of labor may be necessary, while in others collaboration is more effective.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

Modeling psilocybin's effects on brain activity

A study modeling psilocybin's effects on brain activity reveals the importance of coupling neuronal and neurotransmitter systems at the whole-brain level. The findings support the development of treatments for depression, anxiety, and addiction using this psychedelic drug.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
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.

Tailoring treatment for triple-negative breast cancer

A new study has identified a molecular pathway responsible for the progression and spread of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). By blocking the signaling pathway, researchers found that tumors grew and spread more slowly. The findings suggest that patients with low ELF5 protein levels should be given interferon-gamma signaling-block...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 13, 2020

Tight spaces tip presence of petrochemicals

Researchers at Rice University have found that the size of the space trapping petrochemicals is the primary factor behind puzzling NMR signals, leading to better interpretation of logs in unconventional shale formations. The discovery is crucial for extracting oil and gas safely and economically.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateApr 13, 2020

Spider venom key to pain relief without side-effects

Researchers at the University of Queensland have designed a novel tarantula venom mini-protein that can relieve severe pain without addiction. The mini-protein, Huwentoxin-IV, binds to specific pain receptors and has been tested in mouse models with promising results.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020

Discovery of a drug to rescue winter depression-like behavior

Researchers identify celastrol as a potential therapeutic target for treating winter depression, a condition characterized by low mood and social withdrawal. The study uses medaka fish as an animal model to understand the underlying mechanisms of winter depression.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Seeing the light: MSU research finds new way novae light up the sky

A team of international astronomers led by MSU's Elias Aydi found that shocks power most of a nova's brightness, contradicting previous theories. The research uses unprecedented space observations to provide direct evidence for shock-powered optical emission in a nova.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
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.

Seeing the light: Astronomers find new way novae light up the sky

A team of researchers has found that shocks from a nova explosion cause most of its brightness, rather than nuclear burning on the surface of the white dwarf. The study, published in Nature Astronomy, used unprecedented space observations to detect bright gamma-rays and optical data from the star V906 Carinae.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020

UCI-led team designs carbon nanostructure stronger than diamonds

Researchers at UCI have successfully designed a novel plate-cell architecture for nanometer-sized carbon structures that are stronger than diamonds. The design has been shown to improve on the average performance of cylindrical beam-based architectures by up to 639% in strength and 522% in rigidity.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2020

New method created by Skoltech scientists will make doping tests quicker

Scientists developed a new method to simplify the search for traces of medicines and sports doping drugs in human biological samples. By analyzing the chemical composition of a substance with reduced search space, the method helps detect illicit substances more efficiently.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateApr 13, 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.

OSU research program awarded $12.7 million grant for Superfund research

The Oregon State University-led research program will focus on the effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on human health, including cancer, neurological systems, and developmental disorders. Researchers will work with communities impacted by hazardous waste sites to better understand the risk posed by PAHs.

SourceOregon State University·DateApr 13, 2020

Medicare coverage varies for transgender hormone therapies

A new study found substantial variability in Medicare coverage and out-of-pocket costs for feminizing and masculinizing hormone therapies among older transgender individuals. The proportion of Medicare plans offering unrestricted coverage ranged from 5-100%, while out-of-pocket costs varied between $180-$2,176.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateApr 13, 2020

Future aerosol emission reductions will worsen atmospheric diffusion conditions in eastern China

Eastern China's air pollution has been a major concern, and new research suggests that future aerosol emission reductions could worsen atmospheric diffusion conditions conducive to extreme haze events. The study found that climate effects induced by aerosol reduction play a leading role in the anticyclone change in eastern China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 13, 2020

Hospitalizations down once power plants retired coal or installed better emission controls

After four Louisville, Kentucky, coal-fired power plants either retired coal or installed stricter emissions controls, local residents' asthma symptoms and related hospitalizations and ED visits dropped dramatically. The study found nearly 400 avoided hospitalizations and ED visits each year across Jefferson County.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 13, 2020

NASA missions help reveal power of shock waves in nova explosion

A trio of satellites, including NASA's Fermi and NuSTAR space telescopes, observed a nova outburst in 2018 and captured direct evidence that most of the explosion's visible light arose from shock waves. The data confirmed that shock waves play a major role in powering some stellar explosions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
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 formation theory explains the mysterious interstellar object 'Oumuamua

Researchers used computer simulations to propose a new formation theory for the mysterious interstellar object 'Oumuamua. The theory suggests that objects like 'Oumuamua can form under the influence of tidal forces, explaining its unusual characteristics such as its dry surface and elongated shape.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020

Cybersecurity, tech infrastructure requires international trust

Researchers highlight the importance of trust in fostering international cooperation in cybersecurity and tech infrastructure. Incident response teams from the US and Europe collaborate with Russian counterparts to prevent sabotage and maintain grid security.

SourceCornell University·JournalTechnology and Culture·DateApr 13, 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.

Graphene heterostructures with black phosphorus, arsenic enable new infrared detectors

Researchers developed photodetectors using graphene layers with varying proportions of black phosphorus and arsenic, achieving lower dark currents and high photosensitivity. These sensors can enhance the performance of infrared telescopes and replace existing detectors, benefiting various scientific and technological applications.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 13, 2020

Research provides new insights into menopause and weight gain

A new UCLA study has identified a key gene, reprimo, which regulates body temperature and may contribute to menopause-related weight gain. The research suggests that manipulating this gene could provide a safer alternative to hormone replacement therapy for alleviating symptoms.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Metabolism·DateApr 13, 2020

Study finds remdesivir effective against a key enzyme of coronavirus that causes COVID-19

Scientists at the University of Alberta have shown that remdesivir is highly effective in stopping the replication mechanism of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The drug works by tricking the virus into incorporating itself as a building block, effectively preventing it from replicating.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020

Study finds rise in between-workplace inequalities in the US, high-income countries

A study of 20 years of data found that between-workplace share of wage inequality is growing in 12 of the 14 high-income countries studied, including the US. Rising between-firm inequalities are linked to declining national labor market institutions and weak protections for lower-skilled workers.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 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.

Cell membrane proteins imaged in 3D

Scientists developed a new technique to image proteins in 3D with nanoscale resolution using lanthanide-binding tags, enabling researchers to identify precise protein locations within individual cells. This breakthrough provides new insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatments.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 13, 2020

Toxic cell atlas guides new therapies for neurodegeneration

Scientists have created a comprehensive atlas of toxic immune cells that damage the brain, revealing a potential new drug target for multiple sclerosis and possibly other neurodegenerative diseases. The 'atlas' was generated using a novel method called Tox-seq, which links gene expression to function in single cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 13, 2020

New findings shed light on selective therapeutics for IDH1-mutated glioma

A new study has identified a potent Nrf2 inhibitor, triptolide, as a promising therapeutic approach for IDH1-mutated glioma. The research reveals that disrupting the glutathione synthesis pathway establishes synergistic lethality with a neomorphic IDH1 mutation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020

Could inhibiting the DPP4 enzyme help treat coronavirus?

Researchers investigate DPP4 enzyme inhibition as a possible treatment for coronavirus. Preliminary studies suggest that inhibiting the DPP4 enzyme could effectively treat COVID-19, offering new hope for treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·DateApr 13, 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.