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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 6


Page 6 of 41

Nanocrystals will help detect methanol and other alcohols

Skoltech scientists developed sensitive sensors based on cobalt oxide nanoflakes to detect various alcohols, including toxic methanol. The new technology enables quick and accurate tests for safe air quality, applicable to medical diagnostics and ambient air monitoring.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 27, 2020

Forgotten tale of phage therapy history revealed

Researchers from University of Jyväskylä uncovered historical data on phage therapy's successful use against dysentery and staphylococcal infections in Brazil. The study sheds light on the revived interest in phage therapy as an alternative to antibiotics in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMar 27, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

How to boost immune response to vaccines in older people

Researchers at the Babraham Institute found that applying genital wart treatment can enhance the immune system of older mice and humans. By boosting T follicular helper cells, they were able to rescue age-dependent defects in immune cell types, offering hope for improving vaccination response in older populations.

SourceBabraham Institute·DateMar 27, 2020

Cardiac involvement in a patient with COVID-19

A recent study published in JAMA Network reveals that COVID-19 can cause acute myocardial inflammation leading to fatigue and signs of heart failure. Researchers identified the presentation of this condition in a patient who recovered from influenzalike syndrome and developed symptoms a week after upper respiratory tract symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 27, 2020

Scientists find a way to extract color from black

Researchers at University of Birmingham develop technique to control light passing through disordered surfaces, producing vivid colors. The method harnesses random clusters of gold nanoparticles to create a 'transparent cavity' that traps and releases photons with different frequencies, resulting in precise color reproduction.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 27, 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.

Cellular train track deformities shed light on neurological disease

Researchers developed a novel technique to study how deformed microtubules affect their function, shedding light on traumatic brain injuries and Parkinson's disease. Microtubules, like train tracks, transport molecular cargo, but become deformed in certain diseases.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateMar 27, 2020

Overdose risk among youth with family members prescribed opioids

A study of 72,000 adolescents and young adults found that exposure to family members with opioid prescriptions increases the youth's own risk of overdose. Higher rates of opioid prescription among young people also contribute to their increased risk of overdose.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 27, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Why does your cotton towel get stiff after natural drying?

Researchers at Hokkaido University and Kao Corporation discovered that bound water on cotton surfaces causes cross-linking between single fibers, leading to stiffness. The study used atomic force microscopy and infrared spectroscopy to investigate the bound water's unique properties.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateMar 27, 2020

Disasters can affect cervical cancer screening for years

Cervical cancer screening rates dropped by over 3% in four areas of Miyagi Prefecture after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, with rates still lower five years later. Long-term monitoring is needed to restore screening rates in affected areas.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 27, 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.

New feathered dinosaur was one of the last surviving raptors

A new feathered dinosaur species, Dineobellator notohesperus, has been discovered in New Mexico, providing insights into the paleo-biodiversity of the American Southwest. The species, a member of the dromaeosaurid group, had feathers, flexible arms and hands, and a unique tail with a stiffened base.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 26, 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.

Insights into the diagnosis and treatment brain cancer in children

Researchers have identified a gene linked to brain cancer in children that can aid in diagnosis and treatment. Elevated levels of the TPR gene were found in 38% of ependymoma cases, and its deletion led to reduced cancer growth and tumor shrinkage when treated with rapamycin.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAutophagy·DateMar 26, 2020

Neural networks facilitate optimization in the search for new materials

Researchers at MIT used machine learning to streamline the discovery process for new materials, narrowing down 3 million candidates to eight promising options in just five weeks. The neural network was able to predict properties and optimize criteria, improving upon conventional analytical methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 26, 2020

Unconstrained genome targeting with CRISPR-Cas9 variants less reliant on PAM

Researchers have developed novel Cas9 variants that eliminate the need for a protospacer adjacent motif (PAM), allowing for genome-wide targeting with unprecedented accuracy. These variants, SpG and SpRY, can correct mutations in previously 'un-editable' regions of the genome, expanding the potential of CRISPR-Cas systems.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 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.

Biophysics -- lifting the lid on beta-barrels

Biophysicists analyzed the mechanical stability of a protein-ligand complex, finding that geometry affects stability and forces required to extract ligand vary by barrel structure. This discovery may improve experimental data analysis and understanding of mechanosensitive proteins.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 26, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

A possible treatment for COVID-19 and an approach for developing others

A review article published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy highlights the potential of remdesivir as a treatment for COVID-19. The antiviral has shown effectiveness against a range of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, with prophylactic treatment preventing clinical disease and viral replication.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 26, 2020

Making sense of cells

Scientists created a model that represents a cell with two sensors responding to its environment. They tested various questions, including the impact of energy consumption and sensor interactions on cell sensitivity. The study found that these factors are not always crucial for high sensitivity, and noise levels play a significant role.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2020

Jumping genes help make neurons in a dish

Researchers at KAUST have developed a cellular model of neuronal development that relies on L1 retrotransposons to form dopamine-producing neurons. The study reveals the importance of L1 activation in successful reprogramming of skin cells into neuronal cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 26, 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.

How stable is deep ocean circulation in warmer climate?

A Rutgers University study suggests short-term disruptions of deep ocean circulation occurred during past warm interglacial periods, which may happen again due to climate change. The study found century-long disruptions in the North Atlantic Deep Water formation during four warm interglacial periods within the past 450,000 years.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Quantum effect triggers unusual material expansion

Scientists have discovered a material that expands dramatically at low temperatures, mimicking water's expansion when frozen. The researchers used x-rays and theoretical descriptions to explain the phenomenon, which is attributed to the Kondo effect and could lead to new alloys for aviation and other applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 26, 2020

As the ocean warms, marine species relocate toward the poles

A recent study reveals that marine species are shifting their populations towards the poles in response to ocean warming, with significant implications for global biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. The research found a consistent pattern of species abundance increases at poleward edges and declines at equatorward edges.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 26, 2020

Quantum phenomenon governs organic solar cells

Researchers at Linköping University have discovered a quantum phenomenon that influences the formation of free charges in organic solar cells. Vibronic coherence contributes to photocurrent generation and can be used to increase efficiency.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 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.

New therapeutic strategy against diabetes

Maintaining vitamin D receptor levels in pancreatic cells may protect against diabetes development and counteract cell damage. Researchers found that sustained VDR expression preserves β-cell mass and function, reducing inflammation and hyperglycemia.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalDiabetes·DateMar 26, 2020

Young people's faith doesn't grow in a vacuum

A 10-year longitudinal study found that young people given a religious upbringing at home by both parents have the strongest faith in God. In contrast, those with only one parent or no parental influence experience wavering faith.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBritish Journal of Religious Education·DateMar 26, 2020

BU MED student awarded prestigious research fellowship

A BU MED student, Thomas Cheng, received a $3,000 award and two-year Journal of Vascular Surgery subscription for studying patient presentation and outcomes for dialysis in immigrant and refugee populations. The goal is to identify areas for improvement in this vulnerable population.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateMar 26, 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.

Neanderthals: Pioneers in the use of marine resources

Researchers discovered remains of various marine animals in a Portuguese cave occupied by Neanderthals between 106,000 and 86,000 BCE. This finding suggests that many Neanderthal groups shared similar dietary habits, contradicting the common perception of them as cold-climate hunters.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

UC Davis launches two clinical studies to treat COVID-19

Researchers at UC Davis are conducting two clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of remdesivir and sarilumab in treating hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19. The studies aim to identify early signs of clinical benefit while avoiding ineffective therapies in critically ill patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateMar 26, 2020

Missing link in coronavirus jump from bats to humans could be pangolins, not snakes

Recent studies on the SARS-CoV-2 genome have been contradicted by a new study suggesting pangolins as the missing link in the virus's transmission from bats to humans. The researchers found protein sequences in sick animals' lungs that were 91% identical to the human virus' proteins, supporting the pangolin theory.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMar 26, 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.

New sediment record reveals instability of North Atlantic deep ocean circulation

A new study reveals frequent disruptions to North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) stability during warm climate interglacials, contradicting previous notions of relative stability. The high-resolution sediment record suggests that large perturbations in ocean circulation are more easily triggered than previously thought.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Reducing reliance on nitrogen fertilizers with biological nitrogen fixation

Research by plant pathologist Gary Stacey aims to develop effective inoculation protocols for biological nitrogen fixation in non-leguminous crops. The study found that bacterial colonization leads to significant shifts in plant metabolism, with some metabolites more abundant in inoculated plants.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateMar 26, 2020

Wildfire perceptions largely positive after hiking in a burned landscape

A post-fire survey at Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve found that roughly a third of hikers felt energized and awed by the changes they saw. The study suggests people understand and appreciate the role of fire in natural landscapes, but may need education on local ecosystems to fully grasp its impact. Survey participants were highly famili...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalInternational Journal of Wildland Fire·DateMar 26, 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.

Study shows legal marijuana products too strong for pain relief

A study published in PLOS ONE found that more than 90% of legal marijuana products offered in medical dispensaries are stronger than recommended for chronic pain relief. This can lead to increased risk of developing cannabis-use disorders and tolerance, according to the study's lead author.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 26, 2020

Researchers document seasonal migration in deep-sea

Researchers have documented seasonal migrations of deep-sea fish across the seafloor, linking surface-ocean productivity to observed behavioral patterns. This study provides evidence of cycles of movement in deep-sea fish and suggests reasons for their behaviors, potentially mirroring great migrations on land.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 26, 2020

Paired with super telescopes, model Earths guide hunt for life

Cornell University astronomers created five models representing key points in Earth's evolution to aid the search for exo-Earths. These templates enable the identification of potential biospheres on distant planets with characteristics similar to our own, using powerful telescopes like NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 26, 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.

Designing lightweight glass for efficient cars, wind turbines

A new machine-learning algorithm helps design lightweight glass compositions that are very stiff, suitable for next-gen materials in vehicles and wind turbines. The goal is to reduce weight while maintaining strength, leading to fuel efficiency improvements.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMar 26, 2020