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Science News Archive June 2020


Page 31 of 48

What can maritime shipping learn from brain network science?

Researchers studied maritime networks to understand how their organization impacts international trade and economy. They applied methods from brain network analysis to reveal new insights into modular connectivity and structural core organization in complex networks.

Mozart may reduce seizure frequency in people with epilepsy

A recent clinical research study found that listening to Mozart's Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K. 448 daily reduced seizure frequency in adult individuals with epilepsy. The study suggests this as a supplemental therapeutic option for those who do not respond well to anti-seizure medications.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Skoltech researchers use machine learning to aid oil production

Researchers used machine learning algorithms to accurately predict rock thermal conductivity from well-logging data, outperforming traditional methods. This breakthrough can enhance geothermal investigations and basin modeling, leading to more efficient oil production.

Intracellular biopsy technique for fast microRNAs profiling in living cells

A novel intracellular biopsy technique developed by City University of Hong Kong isolates targeted miRNAs from living cells within 10 minutes using diamond nanoneedles. This technique simplifies the experimental operation, reducing processing time from hours to minutes and enabling quasi-single-cell miRNA analysis.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Simulations on biologically relevant time scales

Scientists have successfully predicted the dynamics of binding and unbinding processes on a time scale of seconds to half a minute in pharmacologically relevant test systems. The new dissipation-corrected targeted MD approach reduces computational power by a factor of ten.

New protocol on breast cancer and breastfeeding

A new protocol has been established to guide clinicians in delivering optimal care to women with breast cancer who are breastfeeding. The protocol addresses the spectrum of care, including oncologic breast surgery, chemotherapy, and adjuvant therapy, while emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding for these mothers.

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.

After a century of searching, scientists find new liquid phase

Researchers have discovered a new liquid phase of matter, the ferroelectric nematic, which exhibits strong polar ordering and can be controlled by electric fields. This discovery opens up new possibilities for technological innovations, including advanced display screens and reimagined computer memory.

Island 'drowning' is not inevitable as sea levels rise

New research suggests coral reef islands can respond to sea level rise by evolving through natural processes, potentially supporting near-term habitability. Islands composed of gravel material can raise their crest as sea level rises, with additional management challenges involved.

Nutraceuticals for promoting longevity

Researchers identified nutraceuticals that mimic caloric restriction effects by modulating insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor signaling and sirtuin activity. These compounds promote longevity and healthspan without malnutrition.

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.

Treatment gap between men and women for stroke may have narrowed

A recent meta-analysis found that the treatment gap between men and women for stroke has narrowed to 13%, with most studies showing differences of less than 1% in thrombolysis treatment rates. The study suggests that additional research is needed to understand why a gap persists and whether it continues to decrease.

Responding to challenges of older adults with COVID-19

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing identify health challenges and care needs of older adults with COVID-19 upon hospital discharge. The Transitional Care Model offers a path forward for targeted federal and state policy responses to support these individuals.

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.

Physics principle explains order and disorder of swarms

Researchers found that microswimming particles can be made to organize into different collective states, supporting the hypothesis of critical behavior. The study demonstrates a close link between collectivity and critical behaviour, suggesting a physical principle underlying complex animal group behavior.

Oncotarget: Adoptive cell therapy in combination with checkpoint inhibitors

A study published in Oncotarget reports that adoptive cell therapy in combination with checkpoint inhibitors improves T cell fold expansion and increases CD8 T cell tumor reactivity in patients with late-stage metastatic ovarian cancer. The authors suggest that combination immunotherapy may be a way forward for this purpose.

ASTRO issues first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for cervical cancer

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released its first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for cervical cancer. The guidelines address indications and best practices for external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy in postoperative and definitive settings, including the use of chemotherapy and IMRT.

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.

A robot to track and film flying insects

Scientists from CNRS, Université de Lorraine, and Inrae have developed a cable-driven robot that can follow and interact with free-flying insects. The robot successfully studied the free flight of moths up to a speed of 3 meters/second, enabling researchers to better understand insect orientation strategies.

Scientists predict the best strategy for lifting COVID-19 lockdown

A new study suggests that releasing non-essential workers in two stages is the most effective way to minimize deaths while protecting the economy. The researchers recommend gradually releasing half of the population 2-4 weeks after an initial infection peak, followed by another 3-4 months before fully lifting restrictions.

Roadkill study identifies animals most at risk in Europe

A new study found that European roads are a significant threat to wildlife, with over 194 million birds and 29 million mammals killed annually. The research ranked the most vulnerable species, including the hazel grouse and russet ground squirrel, which are classified as Least Concern but face high roadkill rates.

Beavers are diverse forest landscapers

Researchers found that beaver-induced floods create a network of interconnected habitats in southern Finland, increasing environmental heterogeneity. The study suggests beavers can help restore wetland ecosystems and conserve biodiversity.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Marijuana concentrates spike THC levels but don't boost impairment

A new study of regular cannabis users found that high-potency marijuana concentrates spike blood levels of THC more than twice as much as conventional weed, but do not lead to greater impairment. Despite this, the study raises concerns about the potential long-term health risks of concentrated cannabis use.

Yale researchers find potential treatment for Rett Syndrome

Researchers at Yale University have made a breakthrough in treating Rett Syndrome, a devastating genetic disorder affecting 1 in 10,000 girls. The experimental cancer drug JQ1 has been shown to extend the life of mice with Rett Syndrome by approximately 50%.

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.

International prize awarded to two pieces of novel research in the 3Rs

Two researchers received a prestigious award for their innovative methods in reducing animal use in poultry red mite testing and developing human and mouse embryonic stem cell cultures. Their work has significantly reduced the number of animals used in these fields, paving the way for further improvements in 3Rs research.

COVID-19 mouse model will speed search for drugs, vaccines

Researchers developed a COVID-19 mouse model that replicates the illness in people, allowing for accelerated testing of experimental treatments and vaccines. The model can also study risk factors for severe illness, such as obesity and advanced age.

Engineers find neat way to turn waste carbon dioxide into useful material

Chemical engineers at UNSW Sydney have developed a new technology to convert waste carbon dioxide into chemical building blocks, producing syngas that can be used in industrial products like fuel and plastics. The process uses nanoparticles created by flame spray pyrolysis, which is cheaper and more scalable than existing methods.

Flu vaccine coverage linked to reduced antibiotic prescribing

Researchers found a strong association between flu vaccine coverage and reduced antibiotic use in the US. The study suggests that expanding flu vaccine coverage could reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescribing and mitigate the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

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.

Discovery of the oldest Chinese work of art

A miniature bird statuette carved from burnt bone is the oldest known Chinese work of art, dating back 13,800 years. The discovery pushes back the origins of animal sculpture in East Asia by over 8,500 years.

Study identifies strategies states use to limit local government control

State legislatures use various tactics to pass laws limiting local control, such as passing bills quickly, concealing preemption, and repealing existing laws. These strategies concentrate power at state capitals, reducing local governments' ability to protect residents from public health harms.

Speed of space storms key to protecting astronauts and satellites from radiation

Researchers at the University of Reading found that calculating the speed of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) when they hit Earth provides more useful early warnings for satellite operators. This allows them to take evasive action or switch off systems to protect against radiation damage, and warn astronauts of potential threats.

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.

COVID-19 antibody tests: How reliable are they?

COVID-19 antibody tests measure antibodies produced by the body after infection, providing insights into community spread. While early tests had questionable accuracy, recent developments have led to more reliable tests with high sensitivities and specificities, offering a better understanding of long-term protection.

Risk of stroke may more than double for African Americans who smoke

Current cigarette smoking is associated with a significantly higher risk of stroke among African Americans, with the risk doubling for those who smoke compared to nonsmokers. The study found that smokers were more than twice as likely to experience stroke, and the risk increased with the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

Secondary school admissions system is still a work in progress

A new report examines how parents choose secondary schools, revealing inequalities in access to chosen schools and suggesting the current system could be improved by allowing more choices. Minority ethnic families face a lower chance of getting their first choice school due to factors such as school quality and distance.

Synthesized cell culture process sets stage for more efficient cancer research

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a new cell culture process that can replicate cancer cells from diseased bladder tissue in dogs, allowing for more efficient cancer research. This breakthrough method enables the diagnosis and treatment of cancer without using costly stem cell products or trad...

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.

Surprisingly strong and deformable silicon

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has made a groundbreaking discovery that silicon can be stronger and more deformable than previously thought. They found that by using a specific lithography method, silicon pillars could withstand much greater widths without breaking, offering new possibilities for the fabrication of micro-?electro-...

Study suggests Baboon model could aide in Alzheimer's disease interventions

Scientists have found that baboons exhibit a steep age-related cognitive decline, similar to humans, making them a potentially useful model for testing early therapeutic interventions. The findings provide insight into the breakdown of brain systems and may lead to better treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Newly synthesized fungal compound can switch on a self-destruct button for cancer

Scientists from Tokyo University of Science successfully synthesized a new compound that can reactivate the self-destruct gene in cancer cells, offering a potential new treatment option for patients with colorectal cancer. The team's breakthrough could lead to improved outcomes and quality of life for patients with this devastating dis...

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.

Three research groups, two kinds of electronic properties, one material

Scientists from three research groups collaborate to study a unique compound that conducts electrons in different ways on its surfaces and doesn't conduct at all in its middle. They find evidence of strong and weak topological insulation properties, challenging current understanding of the material's behavior.

First confirmation of new theory by metamaterial

Physicists at the University of Würzburg have experimentally confirmed a new theory on topological metamaterials, which exhibit extraordinary properties. The study shows that all states localize at the edge of the material, a phenomenon known as the non-Hermitian skin effect.

New recommendations on genetic testing for prostate cancer

Key recommendations from the Philadelphia Prostate Cancer Consensus Conference include performing genetic testing for all men with metastatic prostate cancer and those with a family history of hereditary cancers. Recommended genes for testing include BRCA2, BRCA1, and DNA mismatch repair genes. Genetic testing is also recommended to in...

Pre-term deliveries due to COVID-19 could be avoided by studying EHRs

Pregnant patients with COVID-19 are often excluded from drug trials due to lack of fetal safety data. A new position paper suggests using electronic health record (EHR) data to simulate drug trials, identifying safer therapeutics for treatment. This approach could offer an alternative to delivering all pregnant patients with COVID-19.

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.

Self-healing bone cement

Material scientists at Friedrich Schiller University Jena have developed a calcium phosphate cement with added carbon fibers that can seal cracks and promote self-healing. This intrinsic ability could expand the use of bone implants to include load-bearing areas, improving outcomes for patients with fractures or defects.