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Science News Archive June 2020


Page 10 of 48

In the wild, chimpanzees are more motivated to cooperate than bonobos

Researchers found that chimpanzees are more motivated to cooperate and warn others than bonobos, who rely less on each other. This suggests that the interdependence hypothesis may be supported, where humans' reliance on cooperation evolved from hunting large prey or conflict with other groups.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genomes front and center of rare disease diagnosis

The UK NIHR BioResource study used whole genome sequencing to diagnose hundreds of patients with rare diseases, identifying new genetic causes and improving treatment options. The study showed that sequencing the entire genomes of patients with rare diseases can lead to quicker and more accurate diagnoses.

Imaging magnetic instabilities using laser accelerated protons

An international team of researchers used the proton radiography technique to visualize Weibel instabilities in a laser-driven plasma. They highlighted two variants of the instability and demonstrated precision imaging techniques that surpass other methods.

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.

Researchers use electric fields to herd cells like flocks of sheep

Scientists have developed a device that can manipulate and measure cells' movements in response to electric fields, enabling new possibilities for tissue engineering. The SCHEEPDOG system allows researchers to program complex cell maneuvers, such as full circles, with thousands of neighboring cells executing on command.

Invasive fire ants limiting spread of meat allergy -- but pose their own dangers

Researchers found that areas with high fire ant populations had lower rates of the meat allergy, which is caused by the lone star tick. The study suggests that fire ants may be competing with ticks for a resource, limiting the spread of the allergy. However, this also means that fire ant bites can cause severe allergic reactions.

Polarized tweets reveal deep divisions in congressional COVID-19 messaging

A study analyzing congressional tweets reveals deep divisions in COVID-19 messaging along party lines, with Democrats discussing the crisis more frequently and using different word choices than Republicans. The analysis found a stark contrast between Democratic and Republican communication on Twitter during the pandemic.

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.

Evergreen idea turns biomass DNA into degradable materials

A Cornell-led collaboration turns organic matter DNA into biodegradable gels and plastics, reducing petrochemical consumption. The resulting materials can be used in various applications, including everyday plastic objects, adhesives and drug delivery systems.

Feed additive reduces enteric methane emissions in dairy cows

A study published in the Journal of Dairy Science found that a feed additive called 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) can reduce enteric methane emissions in dairy cows by 22-40%. The addition of 3-NOP to the diet did not affect dry matter intake or milk yield but increased milk fat concentration and yield.

Growing polymers with different lengths

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to control the dispersity of polymer materials, allowing for the production of polymers with specific properties. This is achieved by using two catalysts with different effects, enabling chemists to adjust the dispersity precisely and produce uniform or highly dispersed polymers.

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.

Study shows better option for treatment of inoperable anal cancer

A new international trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology suggests that carboplatin-paclitaxel is the optimal chemotherapy regimen for treating inoperable anal cancer. The study found a trend toward improved survival and less toxicity compared to cisplatin-5FU, with overall survival rates of 20 months vs 12.3 months.

Unexpected mental illnesses found in a spectrum of a rare genetic disorder

Researchers discovered a range of co-existing conditions in patients with fragile X syndrome and premutation disorder. Lower FMRP levels are associated with emotional processing issues, including mood disorders, anxiety, and psychotic features. The study calls for more research on psychosis and FMRP levels, as well as greater awareness...

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.

Blood cell mutations linked to leukemias are inevitable as we age

A study published in Nature found that blood cell mutations linked to leukemias become inevitable as people age, especially in the Japanese population. The research identified genetic variations associated with increased risk of these mutations, which can be detected through a simple blood test.

Pulse pressure: A game changer in the fight against dementia

Researchers propose that elevated pulse pressure in blood traveling to the brain can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular dysfunction, leading to brain damage and cognitive decline. The study suggests reducing elevated pulse pressure could prove synergistic with other therapeutic approaches to treat dementia.

Rogue's gallery of dusty star systems reveals exoplanet nurseries

Astronomers have discovered 25 debris disks around young stars, revealing evidence of planets in nearly all cases. The high-resolution images were obtained using the Gemini Planet Imager and show a variety of shapes and sizes of stellar systems during their prime planet-forming years.

Ocean in Jupiter's moon Europa "could be habitable"

Researchers found that Europa's ocean could have been formed by tidal forces or radioactive decay, leading to a potentially habitable environment. The team's models suggest that the ocean's composition became more Earth-like, with high concentrations of carbon dioxide and calcium, making it suitable for life.

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.

New vaccine holds promise in fighting diarrheal disease

Scientists have developed a promising vaccine using HydroVax technology, conferring 83% immunity against Campylobacter-associated diarrhea. The vaccine targets a disease associated with infant growth stunting and malnutrition in developing countries, potentially improving the health of millions.

Artificial intelligence classifies colorectal cancer using IR imaging

Researchers used infrared microscopes and artificial intelligence to classify tissue samples of colorectal cancer, achieving a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 93%. The method allows for rapid diagnosis and can predict the course of the disease, enabling doctors to choose the appropriate therapy.

Sunnier but riskier

Research confirms that breeding areas with more open canopies do provide opportunities for timber rattlesnakes to reach required body temperatures, but also increase risk of hawks and bobcats. Forest managers should balance canopy cover and predation risk during future conservation efforts.

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.

Should diabetes treatment lessen for older adults approaching the end of life?

A recent study found that nearly half of veteran nursing home residents with limited life expectancy or dementia were overtreated for diabetes, suggesting that deintensification may be beneficial. Lowering diabetes treatment could prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and increase patient comfort without compromising health outcomes.

Exotic mixtures

Researchers have developed a precise method for evaluating the behavior of mixtures under high pressure using X-ray scattering. The study reveals that hot hydrocarbon mixtures in ice giants can produce diamond rain, which generates an additional energy source.

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.

Neptune-sized planet discovered orbiting young, nearby star

Astronomers have discovered a Neptune-sized planet, AU Mic b, orbiting a young and nearby star, AU Microscopii. The discovery provides an opportunity to study the early days of planetary formation and migration in a solar system's early stages.

COVID-19 outbreak and mental health

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a significant toll on mental health, highlighting the need for online platforms to facilitate social support and continued mental health care delivery. The study discusses effective strategies for utilizing online platforms during the pandemic.

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.

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers reviewed multiple databases to examine the effectiveness of various masks in preventing respiratory virus infections. They found that N95 respirators may reduce SARS-CoV-1 risk versus surgical masks in healthcare settings, but applicability to SARSCoV-2 is uncertain.

Blocking a 'jamming signal' can unleash immune system to fight tumors

Researchers blocked a 'jamming signal' that prevents interleukin-18 from reaching tumors, significantly reducing their growth in mice with cancer. The treatment, developed by Yale scientists, uses a synthetic version of IL-18 that can overcome the blocking protein and increase anti-tumor responses.

Genes affecting brains and brawn?

A new study by Penn State researchers reveals that genetic deletions linked to neurodevelopmental disorders affect not only brain development but also other parts of the body. The findings suggest that these deletions can cause defects in multiple organ systems, including heart, kidney, and skeletal structures.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New drug pathway linked with tuberous sclerosis

Scientists discovered a cell signaling pathway that could lead to new treatments for tuberous sclerosis complex, a neurological disorder causing non-cancerous tumors and epilepsy. The heat shock protein cascade restored normal mTOR activity in TSC cells, offering potential drug targets.

Removing toxic chemicals from water -- New environmentally-friendly method

A breakthrough water treatment method using a solvent-free approach has been developed by Swansea University. The MACS machine manufactures catalysts for ozone, destroying pollutant chemicals such as nitrophenol in water. This technology holds potential to enable radical advances in advanced technology across various disciplines.

Food-grade wheatgrass variety released for public use

The University of Minnesota has released the first food-grade wheatgrass variety, MN-Clearwater, allowing farmers to grow this beneficial crop. The new variety provides benefits such as reduced soil loss, fewer chemicals entering groundwater systems, and improved carbon storage, making it an attractive option for sustainable agriculture.

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.

Transgenic rice lowers blood pressure of hypertensive rats

Researchers created transgenic rice with anti-hypertensive peptides that lowered blood pressure in hypertensive rats. The effect remained after a 5-week treatment period without obvious side effects. If effective in humans, it could lead to a daily intake of only half a tablespoon of special rice.

Quantifying the building blocks of DNA is now easier thanks to a novel technique

Researchers have developed a novel method to quantify deoxyribonucleotide triphosphates (dNTP) concentrations in small tissue samples, which is useful for studying mitochondrial diseases and cancer. The technique uses DNA polymerase and fluorescent dye, allowing for accurate measurement even in samples with low dNTP concentration.

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.

Simulations reveal how saltwater behaves in Earth's mantle

Researchers have created complex computer simulations to study the properties of salt in water under high pressure and temperature conditions, similar to those found in the Earth's mantle. The models revealed key molecular changes that could impact understanding of chemical reactions at these extreme depths.

Supply constraint from earthquakes in Japan in input-output analysis

A study by Shinshu University researchers used input-output analysis to quantify economic damage from Japan's earthquakes. The study found that the largest earthquakes require significant economic assistance for initial production and recovery, with some requiring up to 50% of initial production until recovery.

Treating leukaemia more effectively

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt and University of Kent have discovered that the enzyme SAMHD1 can split phosphate groups off nelarabine, making it less effective in B-ALL patients. This breakthrough could lead to more targeted treatment options for individual patients.

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.

Blood vessels can make you fat, and yet fit

Researchers have identified Angiopoietin-2 as a hormone that enables the proper transport of fatty acids into blood vessels, preventing insulin resistance and promoting healthier weight distribution. By targeting this mechanism, scientists hope to develop novel therapeutic strategies for treating obesity-induced metabolic disorders.