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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 10


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.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceDon Powell Associates Ltd·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 24, 2020

Nutrition a key ingredient for cognitive health of midlife and older Canadians

A new study found that consuming more vegetables and fruits, as well as nuts and pulses, is associated with higher verbal fluency scores. Adults who were immigrants for 20 years or more had better cognitive functioning, while those with stage 2 hypertension, obesity, or high body fat had lower scores.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalThe journal of nutrition health & aging·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalCell Systems·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 24, 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.

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 24, 2020

Increased caseloads may explain why reducing resident physicians’ work hours doesn’t always improve patient safety

A new study by Boston Children's Hospital found that reducing resident physicians' work hours can worsen patient safety if caseloads are too high. The study discovered that residents who cared for more patients experienced a higher rate of medical errors, highlighting the need for better staffing standards.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 24, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalChem·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 24, 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.

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...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020
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.

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.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceGoldschmidt Conference·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 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.

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.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Herpetology·DateJun 24, 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.

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.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 24, 2020

OSU research suggests a better way to keep birds from hitting power lines

A study by Oregon State University found that flappers are more effective than traditional PVC spirals in reducing bird fatalities from power lines. The research suggests flappers be used as the first choice when installing bird flight diverters, with comparable materials and production costs.

SourceOregon State University·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020

Resident parasites influence appearance, evolution of barn swallows

A study published in Evolution found that local parasites are influencing barn swallows' mate selection and physical traits, potentially leading to the creation of new species. The researchers discovered a tradeoff between attractiveness and susceptibility to malaria.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEvolution·DateJun 24, 2020
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 24, 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.

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.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 24, 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.

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.

SourceSwansea University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Plant Registrations·DateJun 24, 2020
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.

Medicinal cannabis may reduce behavioral problems in kids with intellectual disabilities

A pilot study found that cannabidiol significantly reduced irritability, aggression, self-injury, and yelling in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. The intervention was safe and well-tolerated by most participants, providing hope for a larger-scale trial to definitively test its effectiveness.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 24, 2020
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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2020
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.

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.

SourceShinshu University·JournalRisk Analysis·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJun 24, 2020

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.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 24, 2020

Adirondack boreal peatlands near southern range limit likely threatened by warmer climate

Researchers from SUNY ESF predict that warmer climate and nitrogen deposition will lead to the invasion of temperate tree species into boreal peatlands, threatening biodiversity conservation. The study uses data from Shingle Shanty Preserve as a critical resource for understanding the biological response to climate change.

SourceSUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry·JournalWetlands·DateJun 24, 2020
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.