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Science News Archive May 2020


Page 10 of 42

New method provides unique insight into the development of the human brain

Researchers at Lund University have created a new model that mimics the early developmental stages of the human brain, allowing them to study how different regions form and potentially produce specific neural cells for treatment. The model, called MiSTR, enables faster production of neural cells for neurological diseases.

Breaking down stubborn cellulose in time lapse

Researchers have visualized the single-molecule level operation of cellulosomes during cellulose degradation using time-lapse atomic force microscopy. This breakthrough provides new perspectives for applications in industrial biorefineries by exploiting the synergies between cellulosome and free enzymes.

MetaviralSPAdes -- New assembler for virus genomes

MetaviralSPAdes is a new assembler for virus genomes, enabling biologists to reconstruct complete viral genomes from metagenome sequencing results. This tool tackles the challenge of identifying and stitching together viral sequences from thousands of bacterial genomes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Performing optical logic operations by a diffractive neural network

A diffractive neural network, implemented by a compound Huygens' metasurface, realizes all seven basic optical logic operations in a compact system using a plane wave as input signal. The design strategy features flexible modification and eliminates the need for precise control of input light.

Declining tropical pelagic biodiversity

Researchers analyzed sea-surface temperatures and planktonic foraminifer shells to determine that tropical ocean biodiversity started declining around 15,000 years ago, before the Anthropocene era. Continued global warming may further reduce biodiversity in tropical oceans.

A nice day for a quantum walk

Scientists at Osaka University have successfully demonstrated a quantum random walk using trapped ions, which may lead to new quantum simulations of biological systems. The technique relies on precise control of individual ions and can help resolve open questions in chemistry and biology.

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.

Astronomers see 'cosmic ring of fire,' 11 billion years ago

Astronomers have captured an image of a super-rare type of galaxy with a 'ring of fire' structure, existing 11 billion years ago. This discovery is expected to shake up theories about the earliest formation of galactic structures and how they evolve.

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.

Microbial cyborgs: Bacteria supplying power

Scientists at KIT have developed a programmable biohybrid material system that uses bacteria to generate power. The system consists of a nanocomposite and the Shewanella oneidensis bacterium, which produces electrons. The team achieved controlled electron flow with increasing bacterial cells on the conductive matrix.

Inexpensive retinal diagnostics via smartphone

A study by the University of Bonn shows that smartphone-based fundus imaging can detect diabetic retinopathy with high accuracy, even in early stages. The method allows for efficient screening and diagnosis, enabling trained laypersons to examine patients, reducing hospital visits.

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.

Vaccination and prosociality

Researchers found concern for others was a key driver of polio vaccination in Israel during a polio resurgence. Understanding the campaign's prosocial nature influenced vaccination behavior, highlighting the role of communication in improving outcomes.

uOttawa researchers discover new sex hormone

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have discovered a new sex hormone in zebrafish that regulates sexual behavior and reproduction. The hormone, secretoneurin peptide, was found to restore sexual function in genetically modified fish by increasing hormone release and enhancing ovulation.

Evidence shows cloth masks may help against COVID-19

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that cloth masks can block droplet and aerosol contamination, reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The researchers recommend using multiple layers of cotton cloth for maximum protection.

How drones can monitor explosive volcanoes

Researchers used drones to create centimeter-resolution 3D models of a volcano in Guatemala, revealing slow expansion and fast extrusion of viscous lava. The study provides new possibilities for measuring ground movements and predicting volcanic danger.

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.

Potential biomarkers for multiple sclerosis

Two plasma and 10 cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers were identified to aid in early detection of MS with high sensitivity and specificity. These biomarkers may help monitor treatment response and disease progression.

Evolution of maritime shipping routes

Researchers analyzed global shipping fleet movements between 1977 and 2008 to understand how routes evolve. A model based on common neighbor ports and sea distance predicts the likelihood of forming direct links between unlinked ports.

There is no escaping from climate change, even in the deep sea

The study found that global mean climate velocities in the deepest ocean layers have been 2-4 times faster than at surface over the past 20th century. Climate velocities are projected to continue accelerating even under strong greenhouse gas emission mitigation scenarios, posing significant threats to deep sea biodiversity.

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.

Scientists find genes to save ash trees from deadly beetle

An international team of scientists has identified candidate resistance genes that could protect ash trees from the EAB, a deadly pest expected to kill billions of trees. Researchers sequenced the genomes of 22 species of ash tree and found 53 candidate resistance genes involved in making chemicals harmful to insects.

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.

Hippocampus and creative thinking

Disruption of hippocampal activity with TMS impairs future imagining and creative thinking abilities in young adults. Reduced activity in the hippocampus is linked to decreased future imagining and divergent thinking.

A new law in laser physics could make eye surgery simpler

Scientists have developed a new type of laser that can deliver high amounts of energy in very short bursts, making it ideal for corneal surgery. The research uses quartic solitons to produce short, powerful light pulses without heating and damaging the surface.

Towards visible-wavelength passively mode-locked lasers in all-fibre format

Researchers have developed a visible-wavelength passively mode-locked all-fibre laser, generating picosecond pulses at 635 nm. The laser has a tunable duration and a narrow spectral bandwidth, opening up new possibilities for applications in optical communications, biomedicine, material processing, and scientific research.

Fatal cases of COVID-19 deepen our understanding of the disease's progression

Researchers analyzed 155 COVID-19 patients in Wuhan, China, finding that over 50% of critically ill patients died due to multiple organ dysfunction and severe complications. The study highlights the importance of early intervention, including timely nutrition support and antibiotic treatment for bacterial co-infections.

A return to the wild for better immune health

A study found that revegetated urban green spaces have more native plant species and greater microbiota diversity, similar to natural environments. This can lead to improved immune function and reduced non-communicable diseases. Urban design principles could be influenced by the environmental microbiome to create healthier public spaces.

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.

Using wastewater to monitor COVID-19

A recent review paper highlights the potential of using wastewater to monitor COVID-19, detecting low levels of virus particles and asymptomatic cases. The method offers several advantages over clinical testing, but challenges include a lack of standardized protocols and knowledge on viral decay in water environments.

New insights into vaping uptake among Māori and Pacific peoples

Researchers found that Māori and Pacific people who struggle to quit smoking may find it easier to switch to vaping if they find it satisfying and are exposed to fewer smoking cues. The study provides valuable insights into the uptake of electronic nicotine delivery systems among these communities.

Does MRI have an environmental impact?

Researchers found elevated levels of gadolinium in Tokyo river water, particularly near treatment plants, highlighting the need for new policies and removal technologies as MRI become more widespread.

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.

Blood test could predict diabetes years before it strikes

A new blood test can identify women at risk of developing type 2 diabetes up to 10 years after delivery, allowing for potential interventions such as diet and exercise. The test uses metabolic markers that are present in the blood of women who have had gestational diabetes.

Migration patterns reveal an Eden for ancient humans and animals

A study published in Quaternary Science Reviews found that many local animals stayed put in the ecologically rich ecosystem at Pinnacle Point, allowing early humans to flourish. The researchers used ancient herbivore teeth to track migratory patterns and discovered a lack of movement among most animals.

How a male fly knows when to make a move on a mate

Researchers found that male fruit flies adjust their scent sensitivity by altering a gene called fruitless in response to pheromone signals and social environment. This study may provide insights into treating sensory processing disorders like autism, as it reveals how organisms selectively tune into or block sensory input.

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.

AFAR honors Drs. James L. Kirkland of Mayo Clinic and Sean Curan of USC

James L. Kirkland, MD, PhD, received the Irving S. Wright Award for his research on cellular senescence and age-related diseases, while Sean Curran, PhD, won the Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award for his work on aging biology. Both awards recognize their contributions to advancing our understanding of aging.

First fossil nursery of the great white shark discovered

Researchers analyzed 2-5 million year old fossil teeth to reconstruct body size distribution patterns of the great white shark in the past. The discovery reveals a significant nursery area with high percentages of young sharks, indicating that environmental changes can impact population dynamics and evolutionary success.

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.

Large-scale analysis of protein arginine methylation by mass spectrometry

This article reviews the state-of-the-art analytical strategies for studying protein arginine methylation using mass spectrometry. The authors discuss the latest studies on profiling protein-methylation events, implementing biochemical methods, computational analysis tools, and the heavy methyl SILAC strategy.

Placentas from COVID-19-positive pregnant women show injury

A new study found that COVID-19-positive pregnant women's placentas showed signs of injury, including abnormal blood flow between mothers and babies. This could lead to increased monitoring during pregnancy, including non-stress tests and growth ultrasounds.

Cognitive behavioral therapy reduces the impact of dissociative seizures

A study published in Lancet Psychiatry found that adding cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to standardised medical care significantly reduced the frequency of dissociative seizures, improved functioning, and enhanced quality of life. Researchers recommend incorporating CBT into specialist care for patients with dissociative seizures.

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.