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Science News for July 21, 2022


Astronomers develop novel way to ‘see’ the first stars through the fog of the early Universe

A team of astronomers has developed a novel way to observe the first stars and galaxies, detecting light through the fog of the early Universe. The Square Kilometre Array will likely make images of the earliest light, but current telescopes struggle to detect the cosmological signal through hydrogen clouds.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2022

Lighting up the B cells

Researchers create CDyB, a fluorescent probe that targets SLC35C2 transporter in B cells, allowing for live-cell distinction from T cells. The study enriches the molecular probe toolbox and opens possibilities for multi-dimensional cell analysis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

New method to map the surface of the moon increases accuracy to unprecedented levels

A new method developed by Iris Fernandes increases topography mapping accuracy on the moon, making it possible for safe landing and robotic movement. The method uses shadows in images to extract exact topography details, eliminating previous computational inefficiencies and assumptions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalPlanetary and Space Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 21, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

AI speeds sepsis detection to prevent hundreds of deaths

A new AI system developed by researchers at Johns Hopkins University has been shown to detect sepsis more accurately and quickly than current methods, potentially saving thousands of lives. The system uses computational simulation and modeling to analyze patient data and identify early warning signs of sepsis.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2022

THE LANCET: 160 million women worldwide have unmet contraception needs; new study reveals large differences in types of contraceptives used across regions and age groups

A new study estimates that over 160 million women and adolescents worldwide need contraception but lack access to it, with significant disparities in use across regions and age groups. The study found that young women, particularly those aged 15-24, face the highest levels of unmet need, amounting to 43 million globally.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2022

Just 10 financial actors hold the key to climate change

A new report identifies the top 10 financial actors influencing the fossil fuel economy and outlines their decisive role in helping de-carbonize our future. The study suggests that these influential actors, including investment advisors and governments, can make transformative changes to reduce fossil fuel production.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEnvironmental Innovation and Societal Transitions·DateJul 21, 2022

Quantum computer works with more than zero and one

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck developed a quantum computer that can perform arbitrary calculations using quantum digits (qudits), exceeding classical computers' efficiency. This innovation unlocks more computational power with fewer quantum particles.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

In a hotter world, air conditioning isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifesaver

As extreme heatwaves ravage the globe, scientists warn that only 8% of the world's poorest people have access to air conditioning. By 2050, 70% of the population may require AC, with 92% needed in India and Indonesia. This demands massive infrastructure upgrades to prevent lives from being lost.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Early Alzheimer’s detection up to 17 years in advance

Researchers developed an immuno-infrared sensor that detects Alzheimer's disease biomarkers, including amyloid-beta misfolding, up to 17 years before clinical symptoms. The sensor shows high accuracy in identifying individuals at risk of developing Alzheimer's dementia.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateJul 21, 2022

Clonal barcoding approach assists in live cancer cell tracking

A team of researchers developed a clonal barcoding approach to track live cancer cells, enabling the detection and isolation of precise clones responsible for tumor formation and early metastases. This technology has the potential to be applied to other cell-based studies, providing valuable insights into biological processes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Patient deterioration predictor could surpass limits of traditional vital signs

Researchers developed an AI-driven device that detects and predicts hemodynamic instability using a single ECG lead, outperforming traditional vital sign measurements with nearly 97% sensitivity. The technology has the potential to provide continuous dynamic monitoring capabilities in patients with intermittent static vital sign measur...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCritical Care Explorations·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Taste sensors keep proteins in order in flies

A set of genes promoting sweet taste sensation also regulate protein management in flies, according to a new study. The finding suggests a connection between taste-related genes and disorders of protein aggregation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

A new take on the ‘marshmallow test’: When it comes to resisting temptation, a child's cultural upbringing matters

A new study found that children from Kyoto, Japan, waited three times longer for food than for gifts, while those from Boulder, Colorado, waited nearly four times longer for gifts. The study suggests that cultural upbringing plays a significant role in shaping children's self-control and habits.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 21, 2022

Generating power where seawater and river water meet

Researchers explored the potential of osmotic power generation using 2D materials, which can efficiently generate electricity from the concentration difference between seawater and river water. The technology has the potential to produce one terawatt of electricity annually, making it a promising alternative to wind and solar power.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateJul 21, 2022

Google/Apple’s contact-tracing apps susceptible to digital attacks

Researchers found a flaw in Google/Apple's exposure notification framework that can be exploited for replay attacks, potentially causing false positive notifications and disrupting trust in the system. A patch, called GAEN+, has been developed to address this issue using coarse location data from Wi-Fi access points and cell phone towers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings on Privacy Enhancing Technologies·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Resistance to mosaic disease explained

Researchers have discovered the genetic basis of natural resistance in cassava to mosaic disease, which is transmitted by whiteflies and causes significant yield losses. The gene, known as CMD2, is a DNA polymerase that corrects errors during replication, making it essential for the virus's survival.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Evidence that asylum seekers are facing human rights violations in Croatia is now incontestable, says new study

Researchers found evidence of extreme police brutality and forced expulsions of hundreds of asylum seekers from Croatia, with over 25,000 people affected. The study also reveals the use of 'chain pushbacks' involving multiple EU countries and Croatian police violence against migrants.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalAnnals of the American Association of Geographers·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2022

New study finds pulsed MRI system could deliver drugs to the brain

Researchers have developed a pulsed MRI system that can safely deliver drugs to the brain by opening the blood-brain barrier. The device uses tailored electromagnetic waveforms to target specific regions of the brain, reducing unwanted side effects.

SourceWeinberg Medical Physics·JournalPharmaceutics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Hunting for dark galaxies with FAST

The FAST HI survey has discovered 544 HI-detected galaxies, including 16 that have no optical counterparts, sparking interest in galaxy formation theory. These 'dark' galaxies may represent a new type of object containing dark matter and HI gas but few stars.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalResearch in Astronomy and Astrophysics·DateJul 21, 2022

At the water’s edge: Self-assembling 2D materials at a liquid–liquid interface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create new method for producing heterolayer coordination nanosheets with improved properties and controllability. The study expands the diversity of 2D materials, enabling potential applications in optoelectronics and renewable energy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Research waste in ecology calls for urgent action

Research waste in ecology is estimated to be between 82-89% due to issues with study design, publication, and result reporting. The largest loss occurs at the beginning of the research lifecycle, highlighting the need for urgent action to optimize scientific processes.

SourceRuđer Bošković Institute·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 21, 2022

Wildfire-smoke observations fill gap in estimating soot’s role in climate change

Scientists have developed a new method to estimate the impact of black carbon from wildfires on climate change, using measurements of light absorption by coated soot particles. The study provides a more accurate way to forecast global climate change and resolves a long-standing uncertainty in earth system models.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

A novel COVID-19 vaccine using modified bacterial DNA

Researchers have developed a novel COVID-19 vaccine based on altered plasmid DNA that effectively blocks cell infection across all tested variants. The vaccine targets a specific vulnerability in the SARS-CoV-2 virus's spike protein, inducing a focused antibody response.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 21, 2022

Researchers report major advance in semiconductor materials

Researchers have experimentally demonstrated high carrier mobility in cubic boron arsenide, a crucial advance for next-gen electronics. The material offers promise for applications requiring both high electron and hole mobility.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Trauma of diagnosis stays with eye disease patients

A recent study found that patients vividly remember the way they were told they had their condition, which affects their perception of vision loss and interactions with others. Clinicians should consider empathetic communication when delivering bad news to minimize long-term psychological impact.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Open·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2022

New DNA atlas provides clues for risk of heart disease

Researchers have created a new DNA atlas that provides insights into how genes in specific cells contribute to coronary artery disease. The atlas identifies over 200 independent genetic markers associated with disease risk, offering a potential roadmap for interpreting non-coding variants.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Genetics·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Women urged to eat potassium-rich foods to improve their heart health

A recent study published in European Heart Journal suggests that women can reduce the negative effects of salt in their diet by consuming potassium-rich foods such as bananas, avocados, and salmon. The research found that dietary potassium was linked to lower blood pressure, particularly in women with high salt intake.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJul 21, 2022

Potential target for Type 1 diabetes treatment

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a new pathway to regenerate insulin in pancreatic stem cells, which could lead to new therapies for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The study uses a drug approved by the US FDA to reactivate dormant insulin-producing cells, paving the way for potential treatments.

SourceMonash University·JournalSignal Transduction and Targeted Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

The outer limits: Future economic growth in the face of diminishing resource

UC San Diego Professor Thomas Murphy warns that economic growth is unlikely to continue indefinitely due to diminishing resources. He uses historical data and calculations to illustrate the point that energy consumption and waste heat will accelerate, leading to severe environmental consequences.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Physics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

'Sensing system' spots struggling ecosystems

A new resilience sensing system can identify areas in danger of collapse and measure the success of conservation efforts. Global average resilience has declined over the last 20 years, with regions such as the Amazon rainforest showing signs of loss of resilience.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 21, 2022

Gender pay gap linked to unpaid chores in childhood

A new study found that girls who spend more time on household chores in childhood are more likely to have limited future employment opportunities. The research suggests that unequal shares of household care work contribute to the gender pay gap, constraining girls' access to better-paid and higher-quality jobs.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalFeminist Economics·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2022

Moffitt researchers create software program that allows simultaneous viewing of tissue images through dimensionality reduction

A new software program, Mistic, allows for the simultaneous viewing of tissue images through dimensionality reduction methods. The software enables the extraction of data from multiplexed images, facilitating the understanding of cancer biology and the development of new therapies.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalPatterns·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 21, 2022

New in Science: What will it take to stabilize the Colorado River?

The Colorado River is facing a critical management crisis due to ongoing megadrought and climate change. Researchers propose policy changes, including Upper Basin consumptive use limitations and Lower Basin reductions, to maintain secure water supplies.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Healthy sleep habits before kindergarten help children adjust to school

A new study published in Pediatrics found that consistently getting at least 10 hours of sleep at night, particularly before the kindergarten year begins, is crucial for a smooth transition to first-time schooling. This consistent sleep pattern is also associated with better emotional development, learning engagement, and academic perf...

SourcePenn State·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 21, 2022

Hormone infusion improves pancreatic insulin production in cystic fibrosis patients with or at risk for diabetes

Researchers have found that infusing glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone can improve impaired islet cell function in the pancreas of cystic fibrosis patients, potentially improving blood sugar control and treatment burden. The study suggests a new therapeutic approach for treating cystic fibrosis-related diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalDiabetes·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 21, 2022

Making a spectacle of stigma in RuPaul’s Drag Race

The article in Journal of Management Studies explores how organizations can use spectacularization to bring stigmatized individuals into the spotlight, creating a new reality. The authors examine Nike's marketing campaign on Colin Kaepernick, highlighting the tension between stigma reduction and social awareness.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateJul 21, 2022

How vaccine-related fears affect the flu shot experience

A novel study found that vaccine-related fears significantly impact flu shot outcomes, reducing vaccination rates and increasing symptoms of dizziness. Researchers recommend interventions to address fear and potential dizziness, such as applied muscle tension techniques.

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Psychology Health and Well-Being·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2022

New chromosomal section effective against diseases in oats discovered

Researchers have identified a novel chromosomal section that confers resistance to both crown rust and powdery mildew diseases in oats. This breakthrough finding has the potential to improve oat yields and reduce disease susceptibility, benefiting human consumption and livestock production.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytopathology·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Lonely old deers: Ageing red deer become less social as they grow older

A new study by researchers at the University of Oxford found that ageing female wild red deer on the Isle of Rum in Scotland tend to adopt a life of solitude as they grow older. They interact with fewer other individuals within their home ranges and shift to less populated areas of their habitat.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 21, 2022

HKU physicists found signatures of highly entangled quantum matter

A research team from HKU discovered clear evidence of a highly entangled quantum matter, known as a quantum spin liquid (QSL), through large-scale simulations on supercomputers. The findings suggest the existence of QSLs in nature and provide new insights into topological order and quantum entanglement.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2022

Microbial ´dark matter´: Centuries-old lava caves of Hawaiʻi Island contain thousands of unknown bacterial species

A new study in Frontiers in Microbiology found that centuries-old lava caves on Hawaiʻi Island harbor an astonishing number of previously undiscovered bacterial species, including the Chloroflexi group. These microbes play key ecological roles in their communities and may have played a crucial role in shaping life on Mars and early Earth.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

New physics law could predict genetic mutations

A new study from the University of Portsmouth discovers that information entropy decreases over time, unlike the second law of thermodynamics. This finding has massive implications for future developments in genome research, evolutionary biology, and computing.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalAIP Advances·DateJul 21, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Not only are bird species going extinct, but they might also lose the features that make each species unique

Research predicts that bird species extinction will decrease morphological diversity among remaining birds at a rate greater than species loss alone. Birds with extreme features are most likely to be affected, including the largest and smallest species, as well as regions like the Himalayan mountains and south Vietnam/Cambodia.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2022

Investigational test may detect Alzheimer’s disease at early stages

Researchers have developed a new test that can detect even slightly elevated levels of tau protein in cerebrospinal fluid, potentially identifying Alzheimer’s disease at its earliest stages. The method uses optical sensors and 'lab-on-fiber' technology to achieve high sensitivity.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced Photonics Research·DateJul 21, 2022

COVID shield: spray coating to shield surfaces from viruses, bacteria

Researchers developed a first-of-its-kind sprayable coating that repels viruses and bacteria through an air-filled barrier and kills pathogens with microscopic materials. The coating provides a permanent surface layer proven to protect surfaces from contamination by viruses, offering a safer alternative to existing disinfectants.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

North ‘plaza’ in Cahokia was likely inundated year-round, study finds

A new study suggests that the north plaza in Cahokia, a major pre-Columbian city, was almost always underwater, blurring the lines between dry plazas and wetlands. The research, published in World Archaeology, reveals that water played a central role in the city's culture, trade, and cosmological beliefs.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalWorld Archaeology·TypeContent analysis·DateJul 21, 2022

Women with endometriosis may have higher risk of stroke

A large prospective study found that women with endometriosis have a higher risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes compared to those without the condition. The study analyzed data from over 112,000 women and found an association between endometriosis and stroke risk, suggesting that clinicians should consider the whole woman's health...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalStroke·DateJul 21, 2022
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 different cancer cells respond to drug-delivering nanoparticles

A new study from MIT and Broad Institute researchers analyzed interactions between nanoparticles and nearly 500 types of cancer cells, revealing thousands of biological traits that influence cell response. The findings could help tailor drug-delivery particles to specific types of cancer.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2022

What Harry Potter can (and can’t) teach us about economics

A new study finds that Harry Potter's economic model is distorted from professional models, influencing readers' views on economics. The paper highlights key aspects of the 'Potterian economy,' including its critique of market-based systems and government corruption.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalOxford Open Economics·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2022

Maintenance of immunity to COVID-19 after infection or vaccination

A new study found that COVID-19 serologically-positive donors had strong antigen-specific memory B cell-associated responses after recovery from natural infection. Post-vaccination, donors showed robust antibody responses against spike protein, which waned over time. The study suggests how long immunity to COVID-19 may last.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViral Immunology·TypeCase study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

New Hampshire and Northeast U.S. region’s high childhood cancer rates re-examined

A new study from Dartmouth Cancer Center re-examines claims of high pediatric cancer rates in New Hampshire, revealing the Northeast region has a statistically significantly higher incidence of cancer compared to all other U.S. regions. Within the Northeastern states, no single state is an outlier, with significant variations in incide...

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2022

Protective T cells remain 20 months after COVID-19

Researchers found that highly specialized T cells, designed to eliminate infected cells, remained active in the blood of all previously SARS-CoV-2-infected patients for at least 20 months. These T cells did not disappear or wane even at long follow-up, suggesting a vital aspect of protective immunity that persists years after COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCase study·DateJul 21, 2022

Researchers chart advances in ancient DNA technology

Ancient DNA research has made significant strides in the past decade, enabling scientists to reconstruct genomes of extinct species like Neanderthals and Denisovans. The latest advancements have improved efficiency and accuracy, allowing for the recovery of usable data from degraded samples. These findings shed light on human migration...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateJul 21, 2022

Marshall University researchers assess prescription drug names

A new study by Marshall University researchers reveals that prescription drug brand names in the US are increasingly using uncommon letters. The study found that letters A, V, X, and Z are more frequently used than expected, while letters E, H, T, and S are underrepresented.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalExploratory Research in Clinical and Social Pharmacy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

North Atlantic temperature helps forecast extreme events in Northeast Brazil up to 3 months in advance

A study by Brazilian, Chinese, Australian, and German researchers found that North Atlantic temperature can predict reduced rainfall and intense droughts in the Northeast region of Brazil. The findings suggest a more persistent influence of the North Atlantic than previously thought.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 21, 2022

Difficult policy decisions are needed to stabilize the Colorado River’s flow

The Colorado River is facing a basin-wide water supply crisis due to ongoing drought and poor water management policies. Drastic measures and difficult decisions are needed to stabilize the river's resources, particularly those that limit the amount of water used by all stakeholders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2022

Model (virus) behavior

A team of researchers at the University of Pittsburgh used computational modeling to investigate the immune response to avian flu. They found that the levels of interferon may be responsible for its more severe presentation and could hold the key to treating it.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalViruses·DateJul 21, 2022

How the zebrafish repairs a broken heart

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine found that zebrafish can regenerate heart tissue after injury due to activated fibroblasts. The fibroblasts, which temporarily enter an activated state, read a series of genes responsible for forming proteins, enabling the regeneration process.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers improve the scanning capability of magnetic particle imaging systems used for medical imaging

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers have developed a rabbit-scale three-dimensional magnetic particle imaging system that can scan large volumes at high resolution. The system uses amplitude modulation to minimize peripheral nerve stimulation while maintaining high image quality.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Buckyballs on gold are less exotic than graphene

Researchers found that buckyballs on gold do not exhibit unique Dirac cone behavior as previously thought, contrary to previous study suggestions. Instead, the electrons behave in a parabolic relationship between momentum and energy.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNanoscale·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Association of prior head injury with sense of smell in older adults

A study found an association between prior head injury and a reduced sense of smell in older adults, particularly those with multiple injuries and more severe trauma. The researchers suggest that repeated blows to the head may damage olfactory receptors, leading to anosmia.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

The birds and the bees — and the temperature gauge

Researchers examine the relationship between thermal biology and sexual selection, finding that animals often tolerate perilous temperatures during mating to increase reproductive success. The study highlights the importance of considering scale in understanding the impact of global warming on reproductive processes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology Letters·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2022

First electric nanomotor made from DNA material

Researchers created a synthetic rotary motor using DNA origami, allowing for targeted movement and mechanical work. The nanomotors can be controlled to rotate in one direction and achieve unprecedented mechanical capabilities.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2022

The best semiconductor of them all?

Cubic boron arsenide overcomes silicon's limitations, providing high electron and hole mobility and excellent thermal conductivity. The material has been shown to have a significant potential in various applications where its unique properties would make a difference.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

“Overlapping surgery” to reduce hospital waiting lists – exciting concept, but no evidence it will increase number of operations

A new study suggests that overlapping surgery could help reduce hospital waiting lists by allowing a single surgeon to operate in two parallel theatres. However, the study's authors warn that this approach may increase the risk of complications, especially if critical portions of surgery are not adequately covered.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateJul 21, 2022

Fast, efficient COVID-19 biosensor under development

Researchers from Indiana University are developing a new biosensor that can analyze samples from 96 individuals in under three hours, with a sensitivity rate of 100% and specificity rate of 90%. The sensor detects not only the virus's spike protein but also the proteins created by the body to protect against the virus.

SourceIndiana University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 21, 2022

Why Jupiter doesn’t have rings like Saturn

New research by UC Riverside astrophysicist Stephen Kane suggests that Jupiter's four main moons would quickly destroy any large ring formations. This prevents Jupiter from having substantial rings, unlike Saturn. The study provides evidence of catastrophic events in the past through the analysis of ring compositions and shapes.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPlanetary Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 21, 2022

Silk offers an alternative to some microplastics

Researchers at MIT develop a biodegradable system based on silk to replace microplastics added to agricultural products, paints, and cosmetics. The new material is made from widely available and less expensive silk protein, which can be dissolved using a scalable water-based process.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSmall·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Competition, not climate, limits bird species’ ranges in tropical mountains

A new study of 31 mountain regions across the globe found that species interactions, not climate, limit bird species' ranges in tropical mountains. The study used 4.4 million fine-scale locality records from eBird and suggests that physiological adaptations to climatic niches result in high numbers of species in tropical mountains.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2022

Demonstration of a potent, universal coronavirus monoclonal antibody therapy for all COVID-19 variants

Researchers discovered a potent universal coronavirus therapy that targets the S2 stalk region of the viral spike protein, highly conserved among beta-coronaviruses. The monoclonal antibody protected against infections when given as an intraperitoneal injection or nasal dose in animal experiments.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Natural food more mouth-watering to children than processed fare

A study found that children as young as five years old prefer apples grown on farms to those made in labs, while also gravitating towards naturally labeled orange juice. Both age groups preferred natural options over unnatural ones, suggesting an early formation of this food bias.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

OU professor working to discover new treatments for tuberculosis

Researcher Helen Zgurskaya is working on discovering new therapeutic treatments for tuberculosis, a leading cause of infectious disease worldwide. Her team has found that certain inhibitors can abolish the transport activity of MmpL3 and its analogs by inhibition of proton translocation.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Moths enlist additional troops in an evolutionary arms race

Researchers discovered a vast network of ultrasonic signals among moths, revealing complex acoustic mimicry rings. These sounds may be used by moths to evade bats and are found in many species beyond previously known tiger and hawk moths.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 21, 2022

Anti-amyloid drugs and Alzheimer’s disease

A recent PLOS Biology study examines the limitations of current anti-amyloid therapies for Alzheimer's disease, suggesting abnormal microglial function and tau tangles as key mechanisms. The authors review clinical trial results and propose new strategies for treating the disease, bringing hope for a cure.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 21, 2022

An anti-bacterial liaison

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics have identified a novel anti-bacterial pathway involving the inter-organellar crosstalk between phago-lysosomes and mitochondria. This pathway, mediated by TFEB, inhibits Salmonella growth in macrophages.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

At last: Concise synthesis of potent neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin

Scientists have discovered a novel 22-step process to produce biologically active tetrodotoxin and its derivatives from commercially available starting materials. This concise synthesis will help better understand TTX biosynthesis and chemical ecology, potentially informing the development of next-generation clinical analgesics.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 21, 2022

Biology’s hardest working pigments and ‘MOFs’ might just save the climate

The development of porphyrin-based framework material catalysts could lead to more efficient and cleaner energy conversion processes, addressing the challenge of electrifying hard-to-decarbonize sectors. Porphyrins have been used in biomimetic chemistry and solar energy utilization but face stability and recycling issues.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateJul 21, 2022

How ‘shark week’ could inspire love for ocean predators

A new study from North Carolina State University found that positive YouTube videos of sharks can increase human tolerance and support for shark conservation. The study showed a significant increase in attitudes, acceptance, and intentions to help sharks after watching positive videos compared to negative ones.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeSurvey·DateJul 21, 2022

Tomatoes, but not farm workers, gardeners, safe from soil lead

A University of Illinois study found tomatoes in Chicago backyard gardens have low levels of lead, making them relatively safe for consumption. However, improper soil handling and lack of washing can still pose health risks. Researchers recommend minimizing dust with heavy mulch and careful fruit washing to safely grow tomatoes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Protein discovered in Parkinson’s disease could lead to new treatments

A team of scientists has discovered a key link between the protein αSyn and Parkinson's disease, finding that it interacts with immune responses in neurons. This interaction may play a critical role in the development of the disease, suggesting a potential new approach for treatments by targeting inflammatory pathways.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalBrain·DateJul 21, 2022

Evaluating a new model for funding rural healthcare in Pennsylvania

A new funding model is being tested in Pennsylvania, which could lead to higher quality care at lower costs. The global budget model provides a fixed payment to hospitals, incentivizing them to focus on patient outcomes rather than extensive care.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Healthcare Management·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Blockchain gives Indigenous Americans control over their genomic data

A new blockchain model proposes to give Indigenous governments control over how genomic data are used, prioritizing community priorities and respecting Indigenous Nations' rules and regulations. This framework aims to prevent the misuse of genomic data and reinforce stereotypes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 21, 2022

Asthma medication not working? Try another

Researchers found that patients who switched to a different medication experienced a significant reduction in exacerbations, with 89% continuing treatment. The study suggests that different medications work for different people, making it essential to try alternative options.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

How do galaxies evolve? A UMass Amherst undergrad may have provided the missing link

A UMass Amherst undergraduate student's work has provided key insight into how galaxies evolve, linking supermassive black hole growth to star formation. The study uses mid-infrared spectra to quantify the connection between these phenomena, paving the way for the James Webb Space Telescope to investigate galaxy evolution.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJul 21, 2022

Competition limits the ranges of mountain birds

A new study using 4.4 million citizen science observations found that competition from other species limits the elevation ranges of tropical mountain birds. The research suggests that when bird species overlap with each other, their ranges become smaller.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 21, 2022