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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 33


Page 33 of 48

Microneedling therapeutic stem cells into damaged tissues

Researchers at Terasaki Institute developed a minimally invasive approach using 'Detachable Microneedle Depots' to deliver MSCs into damaged tissues, accelerating wound healing in mouse models. The technique targets damaged areas with high spatial precision, utilizing microneedles to deploy therapeutic cells and promote healing.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 9, 2020

COVID-19 loneliness linked to elevated psychiatric symptoms in older adults

A new study at Bar-Ilan University links COVID-19-based loneliness in older adults to elevated psychiatric symptoms of anxiety and depression. The researchers found that the effect of loneliness on psychiatric symptoms was most pronounced among participants who felt subjectively older than their chronological age.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJun 9, 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.

Infected insects may warn of impending citrus disease a year in advance

Researchers surveyed commercial and residential citrus trees in Texas from 2007 to 2017, finding that the proportion of infected trees and psyllids increased exponentially over time. The study suggests that a flatter progression of citrus greening disease epidemics could be achieved through targeted protection and management strategies.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPlant Disease·DateJun 9, 2020

Clocking in with malaria parasites

Researchers discovered Plasmodium parasites use internal clocks to regulate gene expression and cell cycle activities in response to host signals. The finding of a genetic metronome and SR10 receptor protein could lead to novel drug targets for combating malaria.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2020

USPSTF recommendation on screening for unhealthy drug use

The USPSTF recommends screening for unhealthy drug use in adults 18 or older to prevent fatal overdoses, injuries, and disability. The recommendation replaces the 2008 statement finding insufficient evidence, citing a significant cause of preventable death in 2017.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 9, 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.

Study shows cannabis temporarily relieves PTSD symptoms

A recent study led by Washington State University's Carrie Cuttler found that cannabis reduces the severity of post-traumatic distress disorder (PTSD) symptoms by about 62% for intrusions, 51% for flashbacks, and 67% for irritability. However, the symptom reductions were not permanent.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateJun 9, 2020

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

Paper-based device provides low-power, long-term method for analyzing sweat

A paper-based device has been developed to analyze human sweat for biomolecules without requiring external power. The device uses capillary action and evaporation to extract and manage sweat, enabling long-term analysis of up to 10 days. This technology holds promise for affordable medical testing in under-resourced populations.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalBiomicrofluidics·DateJun 9, 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.

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

Tower extension test a success for NASA's James Webb Space Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully tested its deployable tower extension, a critical component that allows the observatory to cool down and unfold in space. The test simulated zero-gravity conditions and performed exactly as predicted, providing valuable insights into the telescope's performance.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

Machine learning predicts nanoparticles' structure and dynamics

Researchers developed machine learning methods to predict nanoparticles' structures and atomic dynamics, significantly faster than traditional simulation methods. The new methods facilitated efficient explorations of particle-particle reactions and particles' functionality in their environment.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateJun 9, 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.

Orthotics breakthrough helps children with Cerebral Palsy walk and play

Researchers at Staffordshire University have developed an orthotics breakthrough that fine-tunes splints for children with cerebral palsy, reducing their energy usage while increasing mobility and speed. The study found significant improvements in hip and pelvic function, knee extension, and overall quality of life.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalThe Foot·DateJun 9, 2020

Porous materials for the 'Energy Revolution'

Researchers at TU Dresden are developing nanostructured porous carbon materials for sustainable energy applications. Prof. Qiang Xu joins the team to advance hydrogen evolution catalysis and electrical energy storage.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateJun 9, 2020

National survey shows different bacteria on cell phones and shoes

A recent study found that cell phones and shoes harbor distinct communities of microbes, with shoes displaying greater diversity. The research also uncovered a substantial proportion of 'microbial dark matter' groups, previously unexplored in lab settings.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 9, 2020

Putting COVID-19 diagnostic tests to the 'test' -- how do they hold up?

Researchers tested 27 published diagnostic PCR assays and found seven with potential sequence mismatch issues that may lead to underperforming or false-negative COVID-19 test results. This study highlights the importance of re-evaluating current tests periodically to ensure their efficacy in detecting circulating variants of the virus.

SourceYork University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 9, 2020
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.

Water vapor in the atmosphere may be prime renewable energy source

Scientists find electricity generated by interactions between water molecules and metals can be harnessed to create a new source of energy. The study reveals that high humidity levels above 60% can produce voltages up to one volt, offering potential for developing batteries charged from water vapor in the air.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalScientific Reports·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
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.

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
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.

A new mechanism improves the efficiency of antibacterial surfaces

Researchers have developed a nanometric-scale theoretical model to create structures that kill bacteria by using elastic forces. The flexibility of these pillars is closely connected to their appearance, and varying the height of the pillars can determine their bactericidal efficacy.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2020

Ways to disrupt protein synthesis in Staphylococcus aureus found

Scientists at Kazan Federal University identify a unique post-translational modification in Staphylococcus aureus elongation factor P protein. This discovery provides a promising target for developing new antibiotics to combat nosocomial infections.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalFEBS Open Bio·DateJun 9, 2020

Re-trafficking proteins to fight Salmonella infections

Scientists investigated how immune cells respond to Salmonella infection and found that cathepsins move to the nucleus of infected cells, leading to inflammatory programmed cell death. This discovery shows the benefit of monitoring protein dynamics during infection and unraveling new pathways to defend against pathogens.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·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

Scientists warn against 'greenwashing' of global coastal developments

An international team of scientists warns that artificial structures and reclaimed land in coastal urban areas can cause more harm than good, even with green technologies. They advocate for caution and rigorous evaluation of claims over biodiversity gain to prevent 'greenwashing'.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJun 9, 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.

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

Essential components of dietary restriction revealed

Researchers at Monash University have discovered that reducing two essential amino acids, threonine and tryptophan, can lead to increased calorie burn and improved health in young mice. A low-threonine diet also protected obese mice from developing type 2 diabetes.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2020

New antivirals for influenza and Zika

Researchers have created new antiviral molecules by designing synthetic amyloid peptides that can inactivate viral proteins, thereby interfering with viral replication. These 'Pept-ins' specifically target the influenza A and Zika virus proteins.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 9, 2020

Predictors of 5-year mortality in young dialysis patients

A study analyzed 363 young dialysis patients and identified key risk factors for 5-year mortality, including low albumin and elevated lactate dehydrogenase. Multimodal intervention strategies are crucial to reduce mortality risk among pediatric and adolescent dialysis patients.

SourceERA – European Renal Association·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateJun 9, 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.

Phenothiazine derivatives may find use in photodynamic therapy

New phenothiazine derivatives containing phenyl groups show high potential for use as photochemical agents in surgical operations and cancer treatment. The compounds' stability was ensured through the formation of binary associates, providing greater absorption in near-infrared spectrum.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalRussian Chemical Bulletin·DateJun 9, 2020

Human presence weakens social relationships of giraffes

The study reveals that human presence disrupts the complex social structures of Masai giraffe populations, leading to weaker relationship strengths and exclusive social associations. Giraffes living near humans have reduced social interactions and are more likely to encounter livestock and predators.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Happiness might protect you from gastrointestinal distress

Research suggests serotonin can reduce the ability of certain intestinal pathogens to cause deadly infections by reducing gene expression and preventing bacterial colonization. The study found that mice overproducing serotonin were less likely to become infected with a deadly mouse gut bacterium.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·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
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.

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

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Authors describe timely and targeted actions to prevent mental health crisis in overextended and stressed essential workers, citing Lorna Breen's tragic loss as a catalyst. The article emphasizes the need for clinicians to prioritize their well-being during the pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 9, 2020

Improved MRI scans could aid in development of arthritis treatments

A new MRI scan algorithm can detect small changes in knee joints over time, enabling researchers to develop new treatments for arthritis. The algorithm creates a three-dimensional model of an individual's knee joint and automatically identifies areas of cartilage breakdown.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging·DateJun 9, 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.

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

NASA tracks Tropical Depression Cristobal moving toward Great Lakes

Tropical Depression Cristobal is generating large amounts of rainfall while heading towards the Great Lakes region. Forecasters expect Cristobal to produce storm total rainfall accumulations of 2-4 inches with local amounts up to 6 inches, potentially leading to flash flooding.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·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
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.