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Science News for June 9, 2020


Telemedicine effective for monitoring patients in large pediatric neurology network

A recent study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that telemedicine is an effective way to deliver pediatric neurology care, with a 93% satisfaction rate among clinicians. The study also suggests that telemedicine may help address existing barriers to care, such as lack of access to computers or transportation needs. To impro...

NAFLD in pregnancy increases risks for mother and baby

Women with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in pregnancy face increased risks of maternal and infant health complications. The study found that NAFLD is associated with hypertensive complications, preterm birth, and maternal bleeding after delivery, independent of other metabolic diseases.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateJun 9, 2020

First all-human mouse model of inherited prion disease

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking mouse model of human prion disease, demonstrating spontaneous formation of disease-relevant prion protein assemblies in mice with only human forms of the prion protein. This discovery is expected to provide valuable insights into human disease and inform the development of therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 9, 2020

An unusual cobalt compound

A research team has discovered a novel cobalt compound with a low molecular weight, allowing it to be evaporated at high temperatures without decomposition. The compound's unique geometry enables an unusual spin configuration of ½, making it a promising candidate for ultra-thin layer applications.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 9, 2020

Artificial intelligence enhances brain tumor diagnosis

A new machine learning approach classifies gliomas into low or high grades with near-perfect accuracy, enabling clinicians to choose the most effective treatment strategy. Researchers developed the method using MRI scans from over 200 patients and achieved an accuracy rate of 97.54%, outperforming state-of-the-art approaches.

SourceKyoto University·JournalIEEE Access·DateJun 9, 2020

How effective are language learning apps?

A study by Michigan State University found that language learning apps, such as Babbel, can improve oral communication skills and not just grammar and vocabulary acquisition. Students who used the app for longer periods showed greater improvement in their Spanish language knowledge.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalForeign Language Annals·DateJun 9, 2020

Down to the bone: Understanding how bone-dissolving cells are generated

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered the significance of protein Cpeb4 in the formation of osteoclasts, bone-dissolving cells responsible for osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that Cpeb4 plays a critical role in osteoclast differentiation, with its relocalization to nuclei influencing cell behavior.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateJun 9, 2020

Snapshot of exploding oxygen

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have developed a new experimental technique using the European XFEL's powerful laser pulse to 'X-ray' individual oxygen molecules. The resulting images show the atomic structure and fragmentation process of the molecule, providing valuable insights into its behavior.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 9, 2020

Mexican immigrant obesity rates climb with deportation fears

A Rutgers University study found that Mexican immigrants are at increased risk for obesity after arriving in the US, mainly due to stress and limited access to healthy foods. Researchers discovered that fear of deportation discourages adults from leaving their homes or seeking help, leading to reliance on cheap, high-sugar foods.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProgress in Community Health Partnerships Research Education and Action·DateJun 9, 2020

Lab makes 4D printing more practical

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in 4D printing by developing a method to print objects that can change shape autonomously. The technique uses liquid crystal polymers to create materials that can morph from one shape to another through temperature, electric current or stress.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 9, 2020

AGA does not recommend the use of probiotics for most digestive conditions

The American Gastroenterological Association recommends against using probiotics to treat most digestive diseases due to a lack of strong evidence supporting their efficacy. However, certain probiotic formulations may benefit patients in specific situations, such as preventing Clostridioides difficile infection or managing pouchitis.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJun 9, 2020

Predicting unpredictable reactions

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh and Politecnico di Milano advances computational catalysis by simulating realistic catalysts under reaction conditions. The researchers developed a method to model catalyst morphology and catalytic activity under reaction conditions, enabling the prediction of unpredictable reactions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJun 9, 2020

Serious complication of Crohn's disease may be preventable in young people

A new study suggests that steroid-sparing therapies can reduce the risk of developing perianal fistulas in children and young adults with Crohn's disease. These treatments have been found to be nearly 60% less effective in developing fistulas, and if they do occur, those treated with such therapies are 55% less likely to undergo surgery.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 9, 2020

Black hole's heart still beating

Astronomers have observed a confirmed heartbeat in a supermassive black hole for over ten years, with the signal repeating every hour. The research provides new insights into the black hole's size and structure close to its event horizon.

SourceDurham University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 9, 2020

New nanodevice could use solar energy to produce hydrogen

Scientists have designed a gold nanoparticle conjugate that can be used as a platform for developing a light-driven, water-splitting nanodevice for generating hydrogen. The PSI-GNP-PSII conjugate mimics photosynthesis to convert solar energy into chemical energy, offering a potential solution to the current energy crisis.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBiomedical Spectroscopy and Imaging·DateJun 9, 2020

Study reveals birth defects caused by flame retardant

A new study from the University of Georgia has found that exposure to a banned flame retardant can alter the genetic code in sperm, leading to major health defects in children. The research focuses on paternal exposure prior to conception and uses a unique combination of observational and laboratory approaches.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 9, 2020

Signatures of fractional electronic charge observed in topological insulators

Scientists at the University of Illinois have detected fractional electronic charges in topological insulators, a breakthrough that could lead to more efficient and robust devices. The discovery was made using specially designed microwave resonators, which allowed the researchers to measure the signature of these fractional charges.

Researchers put a price tag on alcohol use

A Finnish study used machine learning to analyze the economic burden of alcohol use disorders, finding that patients with multiple chronic conditions faced significantly higher care costs. The study highlights the importance of rehabilitation services and non-alcohol related treatment for individuals with alcohol use disorders.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalHealthcare Informatics Research·DateJun 9, 2020

The neurobiology of social distance

A new study by McGill University explores the wide-ranging, negative consequences of social isolation on human psychology and physical health. The research reveals that strong interpersonal relationships are critical for survival across the lifespan, while social isolation is a significant predictor of mortality and morbidity.

SourceMcGill University·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Lizard legacy sheds new light on web of life

A special issue of Austral Ecology celebrates the work of Professor Mike Bull, a leading expert in lizard behavior and ecology. The issue features 12 new studies on species like pygmy bluetongues and sleepy lizards, exploring topics such as parasites, environmental change, and sociality.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAustral Ecology·DateJun 9, 2020

NUS and Stanford researchers uncover a new mindset that predicts success

Researchers from NUS and Stanford found that people with a strategic mindset ask themselves 'How else can I do this?' when faced with challenges, leading to effective strategies and improved performance in educational, professional, health and fitness goals. A strategic mindset can be taught through training and practice.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Accounting for nature in economies

Researchers developed a new metric called Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) to measure the value of nature's contributions to economic activity. GEP accounts for benefits like clean water and climate security, informing investments in securing them and evaluating policy performance.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Armor on butterfly wings protects against heavy rain

A recent study reveals that micro-bumps on butterfly wings, combined with a nanoscale wax layer, shatter and spread raindrops to minimize damage. This natural defense mechanism reduces the impact force on delicate surfaces, protecting against physical harm and hypothermia risk.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

The world is much more alike than different

A new study from UC Riverside asserts the world population may have much more in common than it has differences. The research, which included data from 15,318 members of university and college communities, found that people within countries are more similar than expected, while those across different countries exhibit smaller differences.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Personality·DateJun 9, 2020