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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 31


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.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalEpilepsia Open·DateJun 10, 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.

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.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalGeophysical Journal International·DateJun 10, 2020

18.2 million at increased risk of severe COVID-19 uninsured or underinsured: Harvard study

A new study by Harvard researchers finds that 18.2 million individuals at increased risk of severe COVID-19 are uninsured or underinsured, with racial minorities and lower-income individuals being disproportionately affected. The study highlights the need for adequate coverage to prevent financial ruin and ensure access to necessary care.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 10, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2020

Experts outline research methods to study puberty suppression impacts on brains of transgender youth

International adolescent brain development scientists have reached consensus on key elements of study design to measure neurodevelopmental impacts of pubertal suppression treatment in transgender youth. The experts identified three primary domains: mental health, executive function/cognitive control and social awareness/functioning.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalTransgender Health·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateJun 10, 2020
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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 10, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Nutraceuticals·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalJournal of Aging & Social Policy·DateJun 10, 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.

Texas A&M researchers light cells using nanosheets for cancer treatment

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a 2D nanosheet that can adsorb near-infrared light and modify cell behavior. This discovery holds promise for controlling cellular functions using light, which could lead to new approaches in cancer treatment and regenerative medicine.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 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.

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.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 10, 2020

Potent tetrahydroquinolone can eliminate parasites that cause toxoplasmosis and malaria

A new tetrahydroquinolone compound, JAG21, has been discovered to eliminate both active and dormant forms of Toxoplasma gondii and P. falciparum parasites. The compound shows promise in treating toxoplasmosis and malaria, with the potential to prevent and cure all life-cycle stages of malaria.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateJun 10, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJun 10, 2020

Gaps in data on marijuana use limit public health response

A lack of reliable data on marijuana use hinders public health research in US states where cannabis has been legalized. Researchers found significant gaps in data availability, particularly for adolescent use and perceptions of cannabis.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 10, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

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%.

SourceYale University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 10, 2020

Glycolysis involved in immunosuppression by polyphenol; PCB2DG

Researchers found that polyphenol PCB2DG suppresses cytokine production in T cells by inhibiting glycolysis and the mTOR/HIF-1 pathway. This study provides insights into the mechanism underlying the immunosuppressive effects of polyphenols.

SourceShinshu University·JournalBiochemical Pharmacology·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceNational Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs)·DateJun 10, 2020

Scientists reveal relationship between Dek and Intron retention during muscle stem cells quiescence

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology discovered a key mechanism controlling muscle stem cell dormancy, involving the release of conserved introns upon activation. This discovery sheds light on the importance of Intron Retention (IR) in regulating gene expression and stem cell quiescence.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 10, 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.

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.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 10, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

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.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalSpace Weather·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceLancaster University·DateJun 10, 2020
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.

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...

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 10, 2020

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-...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateJun 10, 2020

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...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEuropean Journal of Organic Chemistry·DateJun 10, 2020
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.

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.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 10, 2020

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...

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 10, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 10, 2020

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.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 10, 2020