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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 11


Page 11 of 48

'Ironing' out the differences: Understanding superconductivity in ultrathin FeSe

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology elucidate the underlying cause behind different critical transition temperatures reported for ultrathin iron selenide (FeSe) superconductors, finding the interface between FeSe and STO substrate essential for high-temperature superconductivity. The study reveals variability in Tc values du...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 24, 2020

Measure squeezing in a novel way

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have developed a new method to measure squeezing in systems, allowing for more sensitive detection of signals. The technique, led by Professor Eva Weig, uses a simpler approach than existing methods and enables measurements in previously inaccessible systems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJun 24, 2020

Order out of disorder in ice

An international research team identified a temperature/time-dependent kinetic pathway with three distinctive transitions in the structural evolution from metastable crystalline ice (ice VII or ice VIII) to the thermodynamically stable ice I. The end result is a juxtaposition of these processes, where intermediate amorphous-ices compet...

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2020

Best way found to treat children with sickle cell anemia in sub-Saharan Africa

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that dose escalation of hydroxyurea treatment is more effective and has similar side effects than a lower fixed dose for children with sickle cell anemia in Uganda. The findings have global implications and could impact use of hydroxyurea worldwide.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 24, 2020

Undergrad-led study suggests light environment modifications could maximize productivity

A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that crops' lower leaves are less efficient due to altered light conditions, not age. This 'Achilles' heel' can cause a 10% loss of potential canopy photosynthesis gain, highlighting the importance of optimizing light environments for improved crop yields.

Virtually screening antiviral compounds against SARS-CoV-2 structure may speed up drug and vaccine D

Researchers used a structure-based approach to virtually screen antiviral compounds against SARS-CoV-2, identifying potential candidates for repurposed therapies and new vaccines. The study found high-affinity binding of several antiviral drugs to the spike protein and main protease, revealing promising leads for further research.

Genetic malfunction of brain astrocytes triggers migraine

Researchers have identified a new mechanism implicated in familial hemiplegic migraine type 2, a debilitating condition affecting the central nervous system. The study found that genetic mutations cause malfunction of astrocytes in the cingulate cortex, leading to increased sensitivity to pain triggers and neuronal excitability.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 24, 2020

Tour scores prestigious Centenary Prize

James Tour, a Rice University chemist, has won the Royal Society of Chemistry Centenary Prize for his groundbreaking work in materials chemistry with applications in medicine and nanotechnology. The award recognizes his research group's contributions over 32 years.

An innovative catalyst with Pt, Re and SnO2 nanoparticles as anode material in ethanol fuel cells

Scientists designed a functional ternary Pt/Re/SnO2/C catalyst, which exhibits more than ten times higher activity in the ethanol oxidation reaction compared to commercial platinum catalysts. The new catalyst features improved stability and is suitable for use as an anode material in direct ethanol fuel cells.

Biomedical researchers get closer to why eczema happens

A new study from Binghamton University connects lipids and bacteria to aid in understanding eczema. Researchers found that decreased levels of ceramides can allow Staphylococcus aureus bacteria to penetrate the skin barrier, leading to inflammation and infection. Further research is needed to unlock the secrets of atopic dermatitis.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTissue Barriers·DateJun 24, 2020

Existing drugs may limit damage caused by HIV

Yale researchers identified four approved drugs that can suppress HIV reactivation and reduce damaging immune responses. These drugs, including ruxolitinib and mycophenolic acid, show promise as a complement to antiretroviral therapy in treating HIV infection.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 23, 2020

Breaking the limit

Scientists have synthesized brand-new transition metal carbonyl complexes, including Ta2(CO)12 and M(CO)7+, which transcend new chemical frontiers. These substances go beyond current compound limits, offering new possibilities for practical use and basic science research.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 23, 2020

Sweet or sour natural gas

Researchers developed tailored polyimide membranes to efficiently separate H2S and CO2 from sour gas. By adjusting the ratio of building blocks, they achieved balanced separation efficiency for both gases.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 23, 2020

Prenatal stress associated with infant gut microbes

A new study from the University of Turku found that prenatal stress is associated with changes in infant gut microbiota composition, specifically with increased abundances of Proteobacteria and decreased abundances of Akkermansia. The study also discovered a link between low cortisol concentrations and increased Lactobacillus bacteria ...

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 23, 2020