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Science News for October 14, 2022


Back to the future of photosynthesis

Researchers at Max Planck Institute successfully revived ancient enzymes, revealing a novel protein component that increased CO2 specificity in Rubisco. This discovery provides new insights into the evolution of modern photosynthesis and suggests adding new components may improve its efficiency.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 14, 2022

Two antiseptics work equally well to prevent infections after fracture surgery

A randomized clinical trial involving over 1,600 patients found that two antiseptic solutions are equally effective in preventing post-surgical infections. The study provides reassurance to orthopedic surgeons and helps improve practice of evidence-based medicine.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 14, 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.

Speech as a new diagnostic tool in ALS and FTD

A new study aims to diagnose severe neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and FTD with the help of speech tests. AI can analyze subtle nuances of speech patterns, including pauses, speed, and melodic aspects, to detect early changes.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateOct 14, 2022

Digital transformation in construction industry requires more support, study shows

A recent study published in Engineering Construction & Architectural Management identified the main obstacles preventing digital transformation in the engineering and construction industry. The three main problems are a lack of laws and regulations, a lack of support and leadership, and a lack of resources and professionals.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEngineering Construction & Architectural Management·TypeSurvey·DateOct 14, 2022

Gene activity in a test tube

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have developed a new method called INRI-seq, which allows for detailed analysis of gene activity in individual cells. This technique can help identify new targets for targeted therapies and improve our understanding of protein synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Landmark study finds antisepsis agents interchangeable in reducing infection risk in open fracture surgeries

A landmark study published in The Lancet found that chlorhexidine gluconate and povidone-iodine aqueous solutions are equally effective in preventing surgical site infections in patients with open fractures. This finding has significant implications for healthcare practitioners and may reduce costs associated with accessing these antis...

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 14, 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.

Ecosystem-based fisheries management restores western Baltic fish stocks

Researchers developed the first model for the western Baltic Sea, which includes top predators, fish species, and their interactions. Ecosystem-based management increases catches of cod and herring while improving food web resilience to climate change, and potential carbon sequestration is more than three times greater.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 14, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Too much motivation affects our decision-making

A team from UNIGE and EPFL discovered that too much or too little motivation can blur sensory information and affect decision-making. In a state of hyper-motivation, rodents performed poorly, while moderate motivation led to optimal choice. These results open up new perspectives in learning methods.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNeuron·DateOct 14, 2022

Study finds unexpected protective properties of pain

A new study reveals that pain neurons in mice regulate mucus production and stimulate intestinal cells to release more mucus during inflammation. This protective mechanism helps maintain gut homeostasis and prevent colitis.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Pain-sensing gut neurons protect against inflammation

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that gut pain-sensing neurons regulate the microbial community in the intestines, boosting beneficial microbes to protect against inflammation. The study suggests that targeting these neurons could lead to new anti-inflammatory treatments for IBD and other disorders.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell·DateOct 14, 2022

Bumblebees have poor, but useful memories

Researchers found that bumblebees can only retain basic ranking memories for a few minutes. They can remember which flower was sweeter than another but struggle to recall the sweetness of individual flowers.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournaleLife·DateOct 14, 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.

How fluctuating oxygen levels may have accelerated animal evolution

Research suggests that varying oxygen levels in the Earth's atmosphere may have spurred the emergence of early animal life forms. The study reveals oscillations between high and low oxygen levels over 1.5 billion years, providing a new perspective on the development of animals.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 14, 2022

UNH study finds one-in-six US children experience online sexual abuse

A recent study by the University of New Hampshire's Crimes against Children Research Center found that 16% of young adults in the US have experienced online sexual abuse before the age of 18. The study also revealed that 62% of perpetrators were acquaintances from their offline life, including current or former intimate partners.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 14, 2022

Bringing custom microbes to the business of recycling plastic

Researchers have engineered a microbe to break down and upcycle mixed plastics into building blocks for next-generation materials. The process converts deconstructed plastic waste into polyhydroxyalkanoates or beta-ketoadipate, ideal for applications such as automotive parts.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Study shows how urban environment influences physical activity in COPD patients

The study found that higher population density was associated with fewer steps taken by patients, more sedentary time, and worse exercise capacity. Longer pedestrian street lengths were associated with more steps and less sedentary time, while steeper terrain was linked to greater exercise capacity.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 14, 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.

The annihilation of exceptional points from various degeneration points was observed for the first time in the world

For the first time, scientists observed the annihilation of exceptional points from various degeneration points. The researchers used an optical resonator filled with liquid crystal to study the properties of exceptional points. They found that the position of these points can be controlled by changing the voltage applied to the cavity.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 2022

Commander in the cell's production room

A research team from Würzburg has discovered a crucial mechanism in cellular growth, showing how cells regulate protein production and keep a reserve of ribosomal proteins to quickly respond to changing conditions. This finding may also shed light on the deregulation of signaling networks in different types of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

The more specifics people have on potential dangers, the less fearful they become

UC San Diego researchers found that providing detailed information on probabilities can make risks seem less risky. Detailed knowledge of individual probabilities reduces the subjective perception of risk and causes individuals to estimate its occurrence more accurately.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 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.

Talk therapy could improve mental health of people with dementia

A new study by UCL researchers found that talking therapies on the NHS can improve the mental health of people with dementia, with 63% experiencing a reduction in symptoms. The therapy proved clinically beneficial, even though response rates were lower than those without dementia.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 14, 2022

Widespread variation of inherited retroviruses among Darwin’s finches

Researchers found shared endogenous retroviruses among all individual birds, suggesting most retrovirus-host interactions pre-date host speciation. The study also reveals considerable ERV variation across different populations, indicating recent retrovirus colonization.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 14, 2022
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.

Researchers have determined the three-dimensional atomic structure of a protein important for organ functions

A team of researchers has determined the three-dimensional atomic structure of NKCC1, a human chloride transporter crucial for regulating ion balance in the body. The study reveals a surprising mechanism for releasing ions into cells, which could lead to novel compounds for treating kidney and brain disorders.

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Safety and efficacy of intraventicular immunovirotherapy with oncolytic HSV-1 for CNS cancers

Researchers developed an alternative method of immunotherapy delivery, intraventricular treatment, to administer multiple therapeutic doses in mouse models of human metastatic medulloblastoma. This approach significantly extended survival and reduced toxicity compared to direct tumor inoculation methods.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Joining forces: fast-as-lightning 3D microprinting with two lasers

A team of researchers from KIT, Heidelberg University, and QUT developed a laser printing process that can print micrometer-sized parts in a few hundred milliseconds. They achieved this by crossing red and blue laser beams, allowing for high-speed and high-resolution printing

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 14, 2022

The October issue of SLAS Technology highlights an experimental device for generating temperature gradients on a microtiter plate

A new experimental device has been developed to generate temperature gradients on a microtiter plate, allowing for the simultaneous testing of different temperatures. This innovation solves a common challenge in biological studies of living cells, unlocking new possibilities for studying cellular growth and development.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateOct 14, 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.

Multi-center study sheds light on understudied breast cancer type

A large multi-center study analyzing patient records from three major cancer centers found that ILC is detected later and has worse outcomes than IDC. The research highlights the need for new imaging technologies to improve early detection of ILC, which often spreads beyond breast tissue before diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·TypeObservational study·DateOct 14, 2022

Researchers discover how to overcome a treatment resistance mechanism in one of the most aggressive types of breast cancer

A new therapy has been discovered to overcome treatment resistance in aggressive breast cancer by targeting fibroblasts and enhancing the immune response. The therapy, FAP-IL2v, binds to fibroblast-expressed molecules, allowing the immune system to break through the tumor's protective microenvironment and eliminate cancer cells.

SourceIMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute)·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 14, 2022

Prevalence of online sexual offenses against children

A national survey of 2,600 individuals found that many youth have experienced online child sexual abuse, which can be an extension of dating abuse, bullying, or harassment. The study highlights the need for professionals to understand these dynamics when planning prevention and intervention strategies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 14, 2022

Thirty years of optical parametric chirped pulse amplification (OPCPA)

The invention of Chirped Pulse Amplification (CPA) in 1985 revolutionized ultrafast laser science. OPCPA, developed by Dubietis et al. in 1992, combined the advantages of CPA with optical parametric amplification, offering high gain and low thermal load. Today, table-top OPCPA systems have reached maturity, producing multi-gigawatt to ...

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateOct 14, 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.

The use of high-throughput screening and high-content screening in anti-obesity drug discovery is investigated in the October issue of SLAS discovery

Few studies utilize high-throughput screening (HTS) and high-content screening (HCS) techniques in anti-obesity drug discovery due to a lack of original data or experimental design information. This limits the development of effective pharmaceutical treatments for obesity-related diseases.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·DateOct 14, 2022

Electrically pumped quantum-dot lasers grown on 300 mm patterned Si photonic wafers

Researchers have demonstrated the first electrically pumped QD laser grown by molecular beam epitaxy in narrow oxide pockets patterned on CMOS compatible Si substrate. The devices show improved reliability and potentially exceed performance of previously demonstrated lasers.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateOct 14, 2022

Physicists from the University of Warsaw and the Military University of Technology have developed a new photonic system with electrically tuned topological features

Physicists have developed a new photonic system with electrically tuned topological features, constructed of perovskites and liquid crystals. The system can be used to create efficient and unconventional light sources, mimicking the spin-orbit coupling previously observed in semiconductor physics at cryogenic temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 14, 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.

New study investigates how beliefs and political affiliations shape the public’s understanding about racial inequalities

A recent study coauthored by Syracuse University researcher reveals that learning about historical events can increase beliefs in systemic racial inequality and reduce racial resentment among white Republicans. The study suggests exposure to such information can induce more nuanced thinking on contemporary racial inequalities.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalPolitics Groups and Identities·TypeSurvey·DateOct 14, 2022

Cancer deaths in Italy: environmental pollution plays an important role

A study found that Italian regions with high levels of environmental pollution have higher cancer mortality rates, even after controlling for lifestyle factors. The analysis identified specific sources of pollution associated with certain types of cancer, highlighting the need for environmental reduction and prevention to combat cancer.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateOct 14, 2022

3D printing plant cells shows promise for studying cell function

Researchers at NC State University have developed a reproducible method for studying cellular communication in plant cells using 3D bioprinting. The study found that more than half of the bioprinted cells were viable and divided over time, with soybean embryonic cells remaining viable for two weeks after bioprinting.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Disposable, eco-friendly sensors for precise wearable dosimetry

The developed high-performance disposable photodetectors can accurately monitor exposure to UV radiation and prevent skin cancer. The devices are also conformal, enabling integration over non-planar surfaces for wearable dosimetry and environmental monitoring applications.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateOct 14, 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.

Disparities in receipt of recommended postpartum care

A cross-sectional survey found extensive inequities in postpartum care content, particularly for patients with multiple disadvantaged identities. The study highlights the need for further research on postpartum care visits to better address these disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateOct 14, 2022

Secret structure in the wiring diagram of the brain

Scientists have discovered a hidden structure in the connections between neurons in the brain, which is crucial for the stability of the neuronal network. By combining mathematical models with experimental recordings, researchers found that the relative ratios of connection strengths are more important than absolute values.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 14, 2022

Newly discovered process brings immune cells up to speed

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a mechanism that helps dendritic cells migrate more quickly to lymph nodes. The discovery reveals that forming multiple centrosomes enables these immune cells to stay on course longer before continuing their search.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateOct 14, 2022

“Size matters”: stronger and more ductile microlattice materials with reduced unit sizes

Researchers have developed stronger and more ductile microlattice materials by reducing unit sizes from 60 μm to 20 μm, enabling tailoring of mechanical properties. The size effect results in higher fracture strain and strength, making these materials suitable for various structural and functional applications.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 14, 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.

New Omicron subvariant largely evades neutralizing antibodies

A study reveals that BA.2.75.2, a new Omicron sublineage, largely evades neutralizing antibodies and is resistant to several monoclonal antibody treatments, posing an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infections this winter.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Study sheds light on leaf traits, productivity of C4 bioenergy crops

A new study sheds light on the leaf traits and productivity of C4 bioenergy crops, revealing distinct niches in the leaf economics spectrum. The research found that miscanthus and sorghum, two C4 plant species, have higher photosynthetic rates and nitrogen use efficiency than common C3 plants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalPlant Cell & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 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.

Smart materials: metal cations-recognizable thermoresponsive polymers

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have created a novel thermoresponsive polymer that can be easily regulated by changing the type and mixing ratio of metal ions. This innovation offers potential applications in drug delivery systems and metal ion-sensing devices, allowing for precise temperature control.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalMacromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2022

Discovery of family of hormones may be key to increased crop yields

A group of researchers from Nagoya University has discovered a previously unknown pathway that regulates whether a plant uses its resources for growth or stress tolerance. The discovery involves the PSY family of hormones, which bind to receptors and mediate the switch between the stress response and growth.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScience·DateOct 14, 2022

Senescent cells help to heal damaged tissues

New research from UC San Francisco found that senescent cells promote normal repair and healing in damaged tissues, contradicting the long-held view that they are purely detrimental. The study used senolytics to kill senescent cells and found that injuries healed more slowly. However, the researchers also discovered that senescent cell...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience·DateOct 14, 2022

New mitochondrial disease identified in identical twins

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital and Children's Hospital Philadelphia have identified a rare genetic disorder affecting mitochondrial energy production. The study found that identical twins exhibited hypermetabolism due to hyperactive mitochondria, resulting in low body weight despite consuming more calories than needed.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 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.