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Science News for April 28, 2023


Mushrooms and their post-rain, electrical conversations

Scientists discovered that electrical signals in Laccaria bicolor mushrooms increased after rainfall, demonstrating signal transport among closely spaced mushrooms. The post-rain electric potential showed directionality and strengthened connectivity between spatially close fungi.

SourceTohoku University·JournalFungal Ecology·DateApr 28, 2023

How solid air can spur sustainable development

A new paper proposes solidifying air as a medium to reduce energy consumption and costs in transporting hydrogen by sea. The process, called Solid Air Hydrogen Liquefaction (SAHL), has the potential to lower energy consumption for liquefying hydrogen by 25-50%.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateApr 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Shocking implications of electric fishes’ tailless sperm

Researchers at Michigan State University are investigating a type of fish that produces sperm with no tails but an electric-powered mating call. They hope to understand the energy-saving mechanism behind this trait and its implications for human health, particularly in relation to a genetic disorder called primary ciliary dyskinesia.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 28, 2023

Russian researchers explain origins of dangerous coronavirus variants

Researchers have identified mechanisms behind the emergence of new and contagious coronavirus variants by analyzing over three million genome sequences. The study found that concordant substitutions occurring at other sites influence the likelihood of a substitution occurring at a specific site, leading to unexpected variant emergence.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournaleLife·DateApr 28, 2023

IVI begins clinical development of DuoChol oral cholera vaccine

The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has started clinical development of DuoChol, a new oral cholera vaccine in capsule form. This innovation offers improved thermostability, reducing storage challenges, while making vaccines more accessible to those who need them most.

SourceInternational Vaccine Institute·DateApr 28, 2023

Six-fold increase in rural cancer screenings with remote outreach

A new study found that remote outreach involving interactive education and follow-up support via telephone increased breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening rates among rural women. The combination of a remotely delivered interactive DVD and patient navigation services resulted in a six-fold increase in screenings.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Scientists identify antivirals that could combat emerging infectious diseases

Scientists have discovered potential broad-spectrum antivirals that target multiple families of RNA viruses, which pose a significant threat to future pandemics. The new agents showed promise in preventing and mitigating viral arthritis caused by Chikungunya virus and rescuing cells from harmful effects of other viruses.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Bentley University study shows NIH investment in new drug approvals is comparable to investment by pharmaceutical industry

A Bentley University study shows that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) invests similarly to the pharmaceutical industry in bringing new drugs to market. The NIH spent $187 billion on research related to FDA-approved drugs between 2010-2019, with an average investment per approved drug of $1.7 billion.

SourceBentley University·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateApr 28, 2023

Texas A&M research redefines mammalian tree of life

The study reveals that mammals diversified before the K-Pg extinction, driven by continental drifting and stability following the mass extinction. This led to the rich diversity of mammal lineages, including carnivores, primates, and hoofed animals.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2023

Old dogs with dementia sleep less deeply, just like people with Alzheimer’s

Dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) display altered brain wave activity during sleep, including reduced slow-wave sleep and increased fast beta waves. This research builds on human studies linking disrupted sleep patterns to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Comparing physician and AI chatbot responses to patient questions

A study comparing physician and AI chatbot responses found chatbots excelled in both quality and empathy, while physicians were preferred for their nuanced understanding. The findings suggest that integrating chatbots into clinical settings could improve response quality and reduce clinician burnout.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 28, 2023

Crystal phase-dependent activity of MnGaOx observed in direct syngas to light olefins

Researchers observed strong crystal phase-dependent activity of MnGaOx in direct syngas conversion. The HCP oxide remained unchanged after reduction, while the FCC solid solution oxide transformed into a spinel structure with improved catalytic performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 28, 2023

MIT engineers “grow” atomically thin transistors on top of computer chips

Researchers at MIT have successfully grown layers of 2D transition metal dichalcogenide materials directly onto silicon chips at low temperatures, paving the way for denser and more powerful computer chips. This new technology allows for faster and more uniform growth of these materials, enabling larger-scale integration.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 28, 2023

Machine learning helps scientists identify the environmental preferences of microbes

Researchers used machine learning to identify bacterial environmental pH preferences from genomic data, enabling quicker growth of finicky bacteria in labs. This technique may also improve agricultural practices by ensuring inoculants are adapted to local pH levels, supporting native prairie restoration and plant growth.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Scientists from IOCB Prague move closer to developing a drug not only against monkeypox

Researchers deciphered the structure of the protein methyltransferase from the monkeypox virus, identifying a target for antiviral drugs. The findings may lead to the creation of new antivirals effective against not only monkeypox but also COVID-19.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Fallow land promotes bird diversity

A study found that establishing fallow land can increase the populations of farmland birds and improve biodiversity. The benefits depend on landscape complexity, particularly in regions with a moderate density of boundary lines between fields and woody structures.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateApr 28, 2023

Study shines light on impact of environment on neurocognitive outcomes

A new study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that children with supportive environments fared better than those living in neighborhoods with economic hardship. Higher EHI scores were associated with lower cognitive abilities and greater decline after treatment, especially in math skills.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNeuro-Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 28, 2023

New study looks at role of sleep disruption in dogs with dementia

A new study by North Carolina State University researchers used EEGs on elderly dogs to determine whether brain-wave readings during sleep correlated with signs of cognitive decline. The study found that dogs with more advanced dementia suffered from more sleep disruptions and slept less overall than dogs with normal cognitive function.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Pioneering MRI imaging method captures brain glucose metabolism without the need for administration of radioactive substances

A new MRI approach uses harmless glucose solution to map brain glucose metabolism, generating reliable results and potentially improving diagnosis of conditions like Alzheimer's and cancer. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings and deploy this less-invasive method for patients.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 28, 2023

Deep-learning system explores materials’ interiors from the outside

A new MIT deep-learning system can analyze the internal structure and properties of materials based solely on their surface conditions. The technique uses vast amounts of simulated data to generate reliable predictions, offering a promising solution for engineers seeking non-invasive insights into material properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 28, 2023

When employees leave their jobs, coworkers call it quits: UBC study

A UBC study found that employee layoffs have a strong impact on voluntary turnover among remaining employees, especially when high performers are let go without clear justification. The research suggests that organizations should prioritize clear communication and compassionate decision-making to avoid destabilizing their workforce.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Structured exploration allows biological brains to learn faster than AI

Researchers at Sainsbury Wellcome Centre found that instinctual exploratory runs enable mice to learn a map of the world efficiently. The study demonstrates how biological brains can learn faster and more efficiently than AI agents by focusing on salient objects.

SourceSainsbury Wellcome Centre·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

El Niño–Southern Oscillation correlates well with following-summer cloud-to-ground lightning in China

New research reveals a strong correlation between El Niño-Southern Oscillation and cloud-to-ground lightning in China. The study found that ENSO events, particularly La Niña, lead to enhanced cloud-to-ground lightning activity in North China and Northeast China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Chest e-tattoo boasts major improvements in heart monitoring

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed an ultrathin, lightweight electronic tattoo for continuous, mobile heart monitoring. The device provides two key measurements: electrocardiogram and seismocardiogram, giving clinicians a better chance to catch red flags for heart disease early.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateApr 28, 2023

ATAD3A: A molecular determinant favoring head and neck cancer development

Researchers have identified ATAD3A as a molecular determinant that favors the development of head and neck cancer. The protein is involved in various cellular processes, including energy metabolism and apoptosis. Targeting ATAD3A could offer a novel approach to developing effective anti-cancer therapeutics.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 28, 2023

First comprehensive care plan to prevent preeclampsia published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

A comprehensive care plan has been published to prevent preeclampsia, a leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the US. The plan provides specific recommendations for both expecting parents and clinicians, including daily low-dose aspirin, surveillance, and behavioral strategies.

SourceMirvie·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 28, 2023
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 sweet solution to a cracking problem: Scientists design new bio-inspired molecules to promote bone regeneration

Scientists developed novel sugar-based molecules that can enhance bone regeneration and outperformed standard biomaterials, indicating their potential for treating bone fractures and conditions. The new molecules were designed using computer simulations and tested in mice, showing a significant improvement in bone healing.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 28, 2023

Solving computationally complex problems with probabilistic computing

Researchers demonstrate probabilistic computing's capabilities by simulating networks of stochastic nanodevices to solve specific NP problems. The simulations agree with theoretical solutions, indicating the potential for scaling up this approach.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateApr 28, 2023

Structural insight into process of gene regulation

Scientists have gained a deeper understanding of how Mot1 enzyme displaces TBP from DNA, shedding light on the process of gene regulation. The discovery uses advanced imaging techniques to visualize structural details in 3D models.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateApr 28, 2023

Researchers monitor real-time single-breath exhaled hydrogen cyanide profiles

A new method has been developed to detect hydrogen cyanide (HCN) in exhaled breath, which is associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis patients. The flow-assisted photoionization mass spectrometry method enables real-time tracking of HCN concentrations, allowing for early screening and diagnosis.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Artificial photosynthesis for environmentally friendly food production

Researchers at TUM have successfully developed a method to produce the essential amino acid L-alanine from CO2 using synthetic enzymes and green methanol. This process requires significantly less space than traditional methods and can be powered by renewable energy sources, making it an important step towards more sustainable agriculture.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalChem Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Study finds ChatGTP outperforms physicians in providing high-quality, empathetic advice to patient questions

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that ChatGPT's responses were preferred by a panel of licensed healthcare professionals 79% of the time. The AI model was also rated higher in terms of quality and empathy, with good or very good quality responses being 3.6 times higher for ChatGPT than physicians.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

An artificial intelligence method for rapid plant phenotyping under complex conditions

Researchers developed an AI-based method to predict Fv/Fm ratios from chlorophyll a fluorescence without dark adaptation, improving plant phenotyping speed and accuracy. The LSSVM model showed excellent performance with high correlation coefficients and low root mean square errors.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 28, 2023

Breakthrough in waste heat to green energy: Materials boost record efficiency

Scientists at Penn State have developed a unique materials design that can push the conversion efficiency of thermoelectric devices up to 15%. This breakthrough could transform the design and development of next-generation thermoelectric devices, making them more efficient and competitive with other power generation technologies.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Review article on asymmetric synthesis using arynes

Researchers seek high stereoselectivity in aryne reactions due to their reactivity and instability. Professor Ken Kamikawa's review article explores various asymmetric reactions, outlining their characteristics and prospects.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalNature Reviews Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Cause of heart damage from cancer drugs identified

Researchers at UCL have identified proteins in the blood associated with an increased risk of developing heart diseases, including heart failure. The findings could lead to more refined cancer treatments that minimize cardiotoxicity and improve survival rates.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Ohio University professor Nancy Stevens helps uncover ecosystem evolution in Africa in paper published in Science

Researchers found evidence of abundant C4 grasses and habitat heterogeneity in eastern Africa, challenging previous reconstructions of early Miocene ecosystems. The study pushes back the oldest evidence of C4 grass-dominated habitats by over 10 million years, with implications for primate evolution and tropical ecosystem origins.

SourceOhio University·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateApr 28, 2023

Older drivers drinking or using drugs up to four times likelier to be at fault during a car crash

A new study found that older drivers who use substances are up to four times more likely to be at fault in a car crash. The research team suggests implementing risk awareness campaigns tailored for older adults and other measures such as improved road visibility, automatic safety features and licensing requirements.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalTraffic Injury Prevention·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 28, 2023

Doubling the number of sources of repeating fast radio bursts

Researchers from McGill University have discovered 25 new sources of repeating fast radio bursts (FRBs), bringing the total number of confirmed FRB sources to 50. This new study uses a novel statistical tool to confirm the repetition of these mysterious phenomena, shedding light on their origins.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateApr 28, 2023

Previously unknown intracellular electricity may power biology

Scientists at Duke University found electric fields within biological condensates, which could change the way researchers think about biological chemistry. The discovery suggests that these structures may have played a crucial role in the first life on Earth, providing energy for essential reactions.

SourceDuke University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

New bean genome unveils potential to boost food security and resilience in drought-prone regions

African-led research sequenced the genome of a drought-resistant bean, paving the way for genetic improvements to promote widespread cultivation. The lablab bean offers nutritional and economic benefits, as well as improved soil fertility, making it an important crop for diversified food systems.

SourceInternational Livestock Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

6% of nations provide for citizens in just, sustainable manner

Researchers at Ohio State University found that only 6% of countries provide for all citizens in an ecologically sustainable way. The study measured the ecological and social impact of water and carbon use, finding that while 67% operate safely and sustainably in water use, only 9% do in carbon sequestration. The US is among the majori...

SourceOhio State University·JournalOne Earth·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 28, 2023

Are the least social animals the most innovative?

A study by the University of Barcelona found that individuals less integrated in groups and more afraid of new objects were best at solving challenges. Dromedaries and goats were among the most skilled animals, with success rates of 86% and 69%, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Vascular plants colonized land extensively by the early Silurian: Study

Researchers used mercury isotope data to push back the timeline of vascular plant colonization, finding extensive land colonization by early Silurian (~444 Ma). This discovery links terrestrial organism expansion to co-evolution of earth systems, particularly atmosphere-ocean-weathering processes.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 28, 2023
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.

Treatment of children with ADHD

A recent study reveals that many children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are not receiving adequate treatment. The findings highlight the need for improved communication and access to outpatient mental health care for children with ADHD.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 28, 2023