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Science News for July 8, 2022


Researchers warn about the climate change effects on fisheries and agriculture in tropical coastal communities

Researchers warn that climate change will cause significant food losses in tropical coastal communities due to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. The study predicts greater losses for fisheries than agriculture, highlighting the need for climate change mitigation.

SourceInstitut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC)·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 8, 2022

Spot the difference: Brain changes that enable fine visual discrimination learning

A new study has discovered the neuronal changes that occur during learning to improve discrimination of closely related visual images. Researchers found that experience-driven changes in neural activity enhance discriminations relevant to task performance at the expense of other related discriminations.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 8, 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.

New paper from University Hospitals examines transfusion utilization and appropriateness: Thinking differently at a tertiary academic medical center

Researchers from University Hospitals developed a transfusion appropriateness algorithm to analyze blood transfusions for adult patients. The algorithm led to a decrease in transfusions and an increase in appropriate use, resulting in cost savings of $2.5 million over 12 months.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalPhysician Leadership Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

A major step forward for organ biofabrication

Bioengineers from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences create first biohybrid model of human ventricles with helically aligned beating cardiac cells, increasing blood pumping efficiency by up to 50%. The model was made possible using Focused Rotary Jet Spinning (FRJS), a new method of additive textile manu...

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience·DateJul 8, 2022

IPK research team classifies key gene for cell division for the first time

The IPK research team has classified a key gene for cell division, highlighting its role in maintaining genome stability in plants. The study reveals that plant-specific duplicated genes have a significant impact on the centromere and kinetochore.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 8, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A 'wise counsel' for synthetic biology

A team of researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft developed METIS, a modular software system for optimizing biological systems using machine learning. The tool allows users to optimize their already discovered or synthesized biological systems and can be used with different lab equipment.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 8, 2022

Swans sacrifice rest to squabble

Scientists studied mute and whooper swans, finding a trade-off between aggression and rest. The study suggests that providing enough foraging spots can reduce the need for aggression, allowing birds more time to rest.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJul 8, 2022

Experts predict top impacts on ocean biodiversity over next decade:

A global team of experts identifies 15 emerging issues threatening marine and coastal biodiversity, including lithium extraction and deep-sea fishing. The horizon scan highlights the importance of assessing these issues now to drive policy change and protect ecosystems.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJul 8, 2022

Genetically-enhanced biocontrols can help fight large invasive mammals

A team of researchers developed a mathematical model to simulate the impact of gene drives on mammal populations at a landscape scale. The X-shredder drive has been shown to potentially eradicate mice, rats, and rabbits, but with varying probabilities of success and eradication times ranging from 18 to 48 years.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateJul 8, 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.

Moffitt researchers identify pathway that regulates angiogenesis in tumors

YAP1 controls angiogenesis by expressing genes involved in blood vessel formation, and its activity is regulated by PHD2 and VHL under normal oxygen conditions. In hypoxic conditions, YAP1's nuclear localization enables it to interact with HIF1α, leading to increased expression of pro-angiogenic proteins.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Research Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

Immune system uses two-step verification to defend against HIV

Scientists have uncovered how the innate immune system detects HIV-1, even at very small amounts, and activates a two-step molecular strategy to combat the virus. This discovery could lead to new methods for treating HIV and vaccines, as well as insights into other diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 8, 2022

Surfaces at realistic conditions

The Replica Exchange Grand Canonical (REGC) method describes how surfaces change in contact with reactive gas phases under different temperature and pressure conditions. The approach identifies 25 thermodynamically stable surface phases and predicts stability phase diagrams for real systems.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 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.

How society thinks about risk

Researchers at the University of Basel developed a method to determine how risk is perceived within a society. The study found that threat and fortune are the most prominent components of risk, with threat being more closely associated with older people and women. The results also indicate that there are universal correlations in risk ...

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 8, 2022

Functioning of antibodies in autoimmune encephalitis deciphered

New study reveals how GABA A receptor antibodies inhibit neurotransmitter binding, leading to hyperexcitability and symptoms like twitching and seizures. The findings pave the way for developing effective therapies and further investigations into other diseases.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

Mindfulness meditation reduces pain by separating it from the self

A recent study published in PAIN found that mindfulness meditation can reduce pain intensity and unpleasantness by separating pain from the sense of self. Participants who practiced mindfulness reported a significant reduction in pain levels after undergoing painful heat stimuli.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPain·DateJul 8, 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.

Quality control for antibodies

A team led by Dr. Johan Duchêne investigated commercial antibodies against ACKR1, refuting a previous study that claimed its expression on macrophages and monocytes. The study emphasizes the significance of antibody specificity and demonstrates the importance of publishing corrections in scientific research.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJul 8, 2022

Brain ripples may help bind information across the human cortex

Researchers found brain ripples in all areas of the human cortex, synchronizing distant elements of memory upon recollection. The ripples involve brief, high-frequency oscillations that promote neural interactions and potentially support interaction between distant locations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 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.

Potential energy surfaces of water mapped for the first time

Researchers have successfully mapped the potential energy surfaces of individual water molecules in liquid water at room temperature and normal pressure. This breakthrough uses X-ray analysis and statistical modeling to reveal the complex behavior of water molecules, shedding light on their role as a solvent.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

Researchers identify cells causing neuronal death in a mitochondrial disease animal model

In a new study, researchers found that microglia cells are responsible for neuronal death in a mitochondrial disease mouse model. Suppressing these cells with the drug Pexidartinib increased life expectancy and reduced motor problems. Further research is needed to understand the specific process by which microglia attack neurons.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGlia·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

Moffitt researchers identify splice variant biomarkers in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Moffitt researchers have identified key splicing variants associated with clear cell renal cell carcinoma outcomes and developed a survival risk tool based on their combined expression levels. The study found that altered splicing variants may play a crucial role in disease development and progression, enabling the creation of a non-in...

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalEuropean Urology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

Nano-rust: Smart additive for autonomous temperature control

Researchers create micrometer-sized particles with modular structure and magnetic readout process, allowing tailored applications and non-real-time temperature tracking. The new temperature indicator stores maximum temperature reached in the past, suitable for tracing material temperature history.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 8, 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.

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.

Scientists discover key genes behind insect migrations

Researchers have identified over 1,500 genetic differences between migratory and non-migratory hoverflies, shedding light on the genetic pathways involved in migration. The study reveals suites of genes being activated in concert, including insulin signalling for longevity and pathways for immunity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 8, 2022

Half of transgender patients leave home state for surgery, study finds

A recent study found that 49% of transgender and gender-diverse patients who undergo gender-affirming genital surgery travel outside their home state, resulting in significantly higher out-of-pocket medical expenses. The average out-of-state patient pays $2,645, compared to $1,781 for in-state patients.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateJul 8, 2022

Narwhals show physiological disruption in response to seismic survey ship noise

Scientists found that narwhals experience a large increase in the energetic cost of diving while their heart rate is paradoxically reduced, leading to a significant physiological challenge. The study reveals that prolonged exposure to seismic noise disrupts the normal physiological response of narwhals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateJul 8, 2022
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.

Responsive soft robots inspired by sputtering ketchup bottle

Researchers at AMOLF developed a soft robot that uses a 'hysteretic valve' to respond to changes in its environment, mimicking the movement of living organisms. The robot's natural gait and tactile responses were achieved through the use of air pressure, eliminating the need for computer control.

SourceAMOLF·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2022

Building blocks for RNA-based life abound at center of our galaxy

A team of researchers has discovered a wide range of nitriles, key molecular precursors for life, in the interstellar molecular cloud G+0.693-0.027 near the Milky Way center. The study provides important insights into the chemical ingredients available in the nebula that give rise to our planetary system.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 8, 2022

Electric vehicles pass the remote road test

A new study from Australian National University finds that electric vehicles can handle the distances required to travel to essential services in remote and regional Australia. The results show that 93% of residents could do these trips with even lower-range electric vehicles, without needing to recharge en route.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAustralian Geographer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 8, 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.

Online art viewing can improve well-being

A new study finds that brief online art viewing can lower negative mood and anxiety while increasing subjective well-being. The effects are comparable to those of visiting physical art galleries or engaging in nature experiences.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 8, 2022

ASN promotes diversity of research methods to advance nutrition science

The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) emphasizes that all methodologies in nutrition research contribute to the discipline and advance health and well-being. The ASN-commissioned white paper reviews various methodologies used in nutrition research, highlighting their strengths, limitations, and interpretations.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAdvances in Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 8, 2022

IPBES assessment report: 50,000 wild species meet needs of billions worldwide; experts offer options to ensure sustainable use

The IPBES assessment report reveals that billions of people rely on wild species for food, energy, and income, with 10,000 species harvested for human consumption. However, the report warns that unsustainable use is threatening the survival of these species, driven by drivers such as land changes, climate change, and pollution.

SourceIntergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 8, 2022