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Science News Archive June 2020 - Page 41


Page 41 of 48

High-protein diets help insects to fight against blood parasites

Researchers found that high-protein diets increased the survival of infected caterpillars by causing osmotic stress, which slows down bacterial growth. This mechanism may offer a new avenue for understanding how diet affects parasitic blood infections in humans.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 4, 2020

Keeping water and energy secure

Researchers investigate vulnerability of smart city water and energy systems to cyber attacks, which can cause blackouts and damage. The study aims to develop detection methodologies to counteract such criminal acts using mathematical attack models and big data analytics-based methods.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 4, 2020

redHUMAN: Deciphering links between genes and metabolism

Researchers have developed a new method called redHUMAN to simplify genome-scale metabolic models for analyzing human metabolism. This approach reduces the complexity of human genome-scale models by focusing on specific parts of metabolism while minimizing information loss.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Silicon 'neurons' may add a new dimension to computer processors

Using simulated silicon neurons, researchers found that energy constraints can lead to a dynamic, at-a-distance communication protocol more robust and energy-efficient than traditional computer processors. This protocol enables computing on a secondary network of spikes, allowing for efficient communication and processing.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJun 4, 2020

New study: Tyrannosaurus rex size doesn't determine age

A new study by Dr. Thomas D. Carr finds that the size and weight of Tyrannosaurus rex do not determine its age, contrary to long-held assumptions. The research reveals a high-resolution growth series for T-Rex, which shows that even small juveniles had powerful skulls and teeth, making them just as deadly as adults.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateJun 4, 2020

Using genetically engineered, barcoded microbes to track food contamination and more

Researchers introduce a novel approach using genetically engineered microbes with DNA barcodes to track food contamination and provenance. The system, called barcoded microbial spores (BMS), can persist on surfaces for months and transfer between objects, making it suitable for tracing supply chains.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 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.

Why we should trust registered clinical trials

A new study by Bocconi University researchers finds that the majority of phase III trial results are not significantly above threshold, contrary to previous findings. The researchers suggest that transparency and registration processes are key factors in maintaining trial integrity.

SourceBocconi University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2020

How efficient are solar power storage systems?

The 'Testbench' project enhances the quality of efficiency measurements for solar power storage systems, facilitating comparison and standardization. The goal is to improve reproducibility and confirm the results, ultimately benefiting operators and manufacturers in the growing market.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateJun 4, 2020

Biochemical alterations revealed in patients with Lesch-Nyhan disease

Researchers have discovered biochemical alterations in skin cells, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Lesch-Nyhan disease. High levels of folic acid reversed these alterations in cell cultures, suggesting a possible treatment strategy.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2020

Gut research delves deeper into obesity problems

A recent study published in Neurogastroenterology & Motility found that high-fat diets change the nutrient-sensing capacity of Enterochromaffin (EC) cells in mice, leading to increased serotonin levels and potential implications for obesity and type 2 diabetes

SourceFlinders University·JournalNeurogastroenterology & Motility·DateJun 4, 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.

Understanding a gene's role in inflammatory bowel disease

A new UC Riverside study aims to identify the mechanisms by which the PTPN2 gene regulates immune interactions between macrophages and epithelial cells. The research could lead to fundamental insights into how loss-of-function mutations contribute to autoimmune diseases like IBD.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 4, 2020

Opioid addiction treatment is more widely available, but only for adults

The study found that prescriptions for buprenorphine treatment increased significantly among adults, particularly those prescribed by primary care providers. However, access to treatment decreased among young adults and teens, primarily due to a decline in prescriptions from psychiatrists and addiction medicine specialists.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJun 4, 2020

New material, modeling methods promise advances in energy storage

Researchers from the University of Houston have reported a structural supercapacitor electrode made from reduced graphene oxide and aramid nanofiber that is stronger and more versatile than conventional carbon-based electrodes. The new material offers promise for longer battery life and higher energy at a lighter weight.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 4, 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.

NASA infrared imagery indicates cristobal's heavy rainmaking capabilities

Cristobal has the potential to generate heavy rainfall, with NASA's AIRS instrument revealing cold cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms. The storm is expected to produce extreme rainfall amounts through the end of the week, causing life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in affected areas.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 4, 2020

Vision and balance issues are common in elementary school-age children with a concussion

A new study characterizes concussions in elementary school-age children, revealing common vision and balance issues that warrant consistent assessments at the initial healthcare visit. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to improve outcomes, including school accommodations and vestibular or vision therapy.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 4, 2020

Sleep, death and ... the gut?

Researchers found that death is preceded by accumulation of reactive oxidative species (ROS) in the gut, which can be neutralized to prevent premature death. The study on fruit flies suggests a key role for the gut in causing death from sleep deprivation, and may inform future efforts to address its detrimental effects in humans.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJun 4, 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.

UCF's butterfly-inspired nanotech makes natural-looking pictures on digital screens

A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a new display technology that mimics the colors of butterfly wings, creating ultra-high-definition screens with extremely low power consumption. The technology uses nanoscale structures to scatter and reflect light, producing more natural-looking images without harsh glare.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2020

3D facial scans could speed diagnoses for children with rare genetic diseases

A new tool using 3D facial imaging and machine learning could help diagnose genetic syndromes more quickly and inexpensively. The prototype was created by a team of researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, and has been shown to accurately classify most subjects as either unaffected or having a syndrome.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJun 4, 2020

How cells solve their identity crisis

A team of scientists has provided clarity into how new cells remember their identity after cell division. They found that many genes are activated immediately after cell division, acting in a cascade to send critical signals and allow the cell to 'wake up' from its cellular amnesia.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 4, 2020

Discovery unlocks 'hot' electrons for more efficient energy use

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique to analyze the energies of 'hot' electrons, which could lead to more efficient energy conversion in solar panels and other applications. The method uses a scanning tunneling microscope integrated with lasers and optical components.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateJun 4, 2020

Lighting the way to porous electronics and sensors

A straightforward fabrication method has been introduced by researchers from Osaka University to improve the gas sensing performance of common ceramic coatings. The new method involves depositing a thin, porous titanium dioxide film onto a surface using spin coating, resulting in a significant increase in detection speed and accuracy.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Electronic Materials·DateJun 3, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Preliminary Criterion scores do not help counteract racial gap in NIH grant awards

A new study finds that preliminary criterion scores do not mitigate racial disparities in NIH grant awards, with black investigators receiving worse scores on all five criteria. The study reveals substantial funding gaps between black and white applicants, with black PIs award probability only 55% of their white counterparts.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 3, 2020

Super water-repellent materials are now durable enough for the real world

Researchers at Aalto University have created an armour-plated superhydrophobic surface that can withstand sharp and blunt objects while maintaining its world-record effectiveness in repelling liquids. The surface features a honeycomb-like structure of tiny inverted pyramids, protecting the fragile chemical coating from damage.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Osteoporosis treatment may also protect against pneumonia

A recent study found that N-BPs like alendronate are associated with a 24% lower risk of pneumonia and 35% lower risk of pneumonia mortality compared to no treatment. The results suggest that N-BP treatment may also protect against pneumonia, warranting further investigation into its potential for treating COVID-19 symptoms.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJun 3, 2020

New research leads to lighter and greener bridges

Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark have developed a new design for bridge girders that uses topology optimization to minimize steel use while maintaining strength. The design could lead to weight reductions of up to 28% and corresponding CO2 emissions savings of up to 20%.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020

Cholesterol levels dropping in Western nations -- but rising in Asia

The study found that total and non-HDL cholesterol levels are falling sharply in high-income countries, particularly those in North-western Europe, North America, and Australasia, while rising in low- and middle-income nations, especially in East and Southeast Asia. This shift has significant implications for global cardiovascular health.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 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.

Larger streams are critical for wild brook trout conservation

A genetic analysis of brook trout in Loyalsock Creek drainage reveals that fish are moving between tributaries, using the mainstem as a seasonal corridor. This finding contradicts previous research and suggests that conservation efforts should focus on larger streams and rivers to protect critical movement corridors.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcological Applications·DateJun 3, 2020

Does using marijuana affect a person's risk of stroke?

A new study has found no link between recent cannabis use and an increased or decreased risk of ischemic stroke. Despite previous studies with conflicting results, researchers adjusted for various factors and found no association between marijuana use and stroke risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 3, 2020

Hubble makes surprising find in the early universe

A team of European researchers used Hubble Space Telescope to study the early Universe, finding no evidence of Population III stars. The discovery suggests that galaxies must have formed much earlier than previously thought, supporting the idea that low-mass galaxies are responsible for reionisation.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 3, 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.

Respiratory virus builds 'doorbell' to trick its way into cells, researchers find

Researchers found that RSV manipulates two gene receptors in cells to gain entry and infect. The discovery sheds light on how the common respiratory syncytial virus breaks into cells, a key step in infection. Current treatment options are limited, but blocking the interaction of the virus with the receptor may prevent infection.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNature·DateJun 3, 2020

Video messages may help spread the word about antibiotic risks

Researchers at Penn State created a brief animated video to educate people about the risks of antibiotics, finding it effective in convincing participants that antibiotic use can be risky. The study suggests that a video intervention could help increase public awareness and promote antibiotic stewardship.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateJun 3, 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.

'Breast is best' push out of touch

Researchers found only 34% of mothers exclusively breastfed to six months due to milk shortages or breastfeeding difficulties. Mothers may need to supplement or stop if they experience problems.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Human Lactation·DateJun 3, 2020

Human activity threatens 50 billion years of vertebrate evolutionary history

A new study maps the world's terrestrial vertebrates and finds that human activity is impacting areas with large concentrations of evolutionarily distinct species. Regions like the Caribbean, Western Ghats of India, and Southeast Asia face unprecedented levels of devastation.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 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.

Caring for patients on COVID-19 units: an approach for hospitals

A COVID-19 patient care approach has been developed to help hospitals safely care for patients, featuring dedicated units with risk zones and buddy systems for healthcare professionals. Key findings include adopting patient-centred practices, fostering a culture of safety, and standardizing procedures.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 3, 2020

Rivers help lock carbon from fires into oceans for thousands of years

Research reveals that rivers play a crucial role in transporting burned carbon from wildfires and managed burning to oceans, where it can be stored for tens of millennia. The study estimates that 18 million tonnes of dissolved burned carbon are transported annually by rivers.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020

The roots of a staple crop

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researcher Douglas J. Kennett and collaborators found that maize had become a staple grain in the Americas 4,700 years ago, exceeding what is considered a staple grain. By 4,000 years ago, maize was persistently used as a staple, continuing through the Classic Maya period until today.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 3, 2020

Oncotarget: Anticancer effect of physical activity is mediated

A study published in Oncotarget found that physical activity can modulate miRNAs involved in breast cancer progression, leading to reduced cancer cell viability. The researchers identified two specific miRNAs, miR-206 and anti-miR-30c, which showed promising results as non-invasive biomarkers for breast cancer prevention.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·DateJun 3, 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.

Why developing nerve cells can take a wrong turn

Researchers found that the loss of UBE2K enzyme silences key genes for neuronal differentiation, leading to impaired development of nerve cells. The study provides a potential link between epigenetic regulation and neurodevelopmental diseases.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJun 3, 2020

Scientists create smallest semiconductor laser

Researchers develop nanoparticle-sized semiconductor laser generating coherent green light at room temperature, overcoming a significant technological hurdle. The tiny laser operates efficiently without external pressure or low temperatures.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 3, 2020

Pushing photons

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara developed a new approach to design LEDs that can extract and direct photons with high efficiency. By using metasurface concepts, they were able to confine electrons and holes in gallium nitride nanorods, allowing more light to escape the semiconductor structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 3, 2020

Study puts price tag on lost earnings from racial disparities in cancer mortality

A new study by the American Cancer Society finds that racial disparities in cancer mortality result in significant economic losses, with $3.2 billion in lost earnings avoided in 2015 if non-Hispanic black cancer deaths and earning rates had been equal to those of non-Hispanic white cancer patients. The study highlights the importance o...

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalJNCI Cancer Spectrum·DateJun 3, 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.

Age affects decisions related to breast cancer surgery

A new study found that age does not necessarily disqualify older patients from breast cancer surgery, but serious adverse events are rare. Surgery can have a negative impact on quality of life and functional independence in older patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBJS·DateJun 3, 2020

ETH researchers deconstruct tissue repair

Researchers from ETH Zurich have deconstructed the complex mechanisms that control tissue repair and scar formation, focusing on a signal molecule called activin. The study reveals how activin affects cell interactions and extracellular matrix composition, promoting wound healing but also causing scarring.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020