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Science News Archive June 2020


Page 1 of 48

A new view of microscopic interactions

Scientists developed a new experimental approach to study chemistry at very low temperatures, revealing specific molecular properties and providing more accurate theories. The approach uses laser-excited molecules in the same direction, allowing for a better understanding of molecular interactions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 30, 2020

Discovery of key protein behind cancer relapse and progression can lead to new therapies

The study reveals that low levels of MBNL1 protein are associated with poor overall survival in various common cancers. Blocking the JNK protein can reverse this mechanism, providing a potential biomarker for selecting patients for treatment. Researchers plan to investigate MBNL1's role in colorectal cancer and explore anti-JNK therapies.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 30, 2020

For cardiac rehab patients, in-home portable air cleaners lower fine-particle pollutant exposure

A pilot study found that providing cardiac patients with in-home portable air cleaners (PACs) significantly reduces their personal-level exposure to fine-particle pollutants, a major risk factor for cardiovascular events. The study showed a 40% reduction in PM2.5 air pollution exposure and potentially lower cardiovascular event rates.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention·DateJun 30, 2020

New genomic atlas of the developing human brain

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF have developed a comprehensive region-specific atlas of regulatory regions linked to human embryonic brain development. The study identified 19,000 potential genetic variants critical to brain development, providing a valuable tool for probing underlying biology of neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateJun 30, 2020

Traditional strength training vs jump training for physically inactive young adults

A four-week study found that traditional strength training (TRT) and plyometric jump training (PJT) are equally effective in improving muscular fitness among sedentary young adults. No significant differences were observed between the two groups, suggesting these exercises can be used interchangeably for physical fitness.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Sports Sciences Journal·DateJun 30, 2020

Wild bees depend on the landscape structure

Research by the University of Göttingen found that wild bees depend on landscape structure, with small fields and organic areas providing benefits for bumblebee colonies. Flower strips in conventional cereal fields also attract pollinators, highlighting the importance of agri-environmental schemes that consider landscape structure.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJun 30, 2020

No touching: Skoltech researchers find contactless way to measure thickness of carbon nanotube films

Researchers at Skoltech have developed a non-invasive technique for measuring the thickness of single-walled carbon nanotube films, which may have applications in solar energy, smart textiles, and more. The method uses spectroscopic ellipsometry to determine film parameters with high accuracy.

New strategy emerges for vaccine against methicillin-resistant staphylococcal aureus

Researchers at NYU Langone Health have developed a new vaccination strategy that targets the toxic molecules released by Staphylococcal bacteria, including MRSA, to prevent deadly infections. In a study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, mice vaccinated with this experimental vaccine demonstrated an immune response and ...

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 30, 2020

Sneaky salmonella finds a backdoor into plants

Wild strains of salmonella have been found to reopen stomates on plants, allowing them to bypass the immune defense system and cause foodborne illnesses. This finding highlights the increasing threat of opportunistic pathogens jumping from plants to humans through contaminated foods.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJun 30, 2020