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Science News Archive April 2023 - Page 34


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Research on reptiles is strongly influenced by access to specimens

A review of scientific literature on reptiles between 1960 and 2021 found that 15% of articles focused on only ten species, with fewer than ten studies published on 90.5% of all species. The authors attribute this bias to factors such as habitat, size, danger of extinction, and proximity to research institutions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEcography·DateApr 5, 2023

Opening a new frontier: PdMo intermetallic catalyst for promoting CO2 utilization

Researchers developed a stable and active catalyst for CO2 hydrogenation at room temperature, achieving high conversion efficiency comparable to state-of-the-art heterogeneous catalysts. The PdMo intermetallic catalyst was synthesized via a simple ammonolysis process and demonstrated robustness and durability in various conditions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

Therapy shows promise to help clear tuberculosis

Researchers at Texas Biomedical Research Institute have identified a potential host-directed therapy targeting the immune system to bolster the body's ability to control TB infection. Blocking IDO enzyme helped nonhuman primates completely eliminate active TB infection, improving health metrics compared to antibiotics alone.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalJCI Insight·DateApr 5, 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.

University signs agreement to help improve lives of Kenyans

The University of Liverpool has signed a 5-year agreement with the Mama Doing Good Foundation, Kenya Medical Research Institute, and other partners to reduce household air pollution in Kenya. The partnership aims to train 130,000 Kenyan community health workers to prevent household air pollution and improve community health.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateApr 5, 2023

Among untreated patients with COVID-19, combined symptom and viral rebound is rare

Researchers found that symptom and viral rebound are rare in untreated COVID-19 patients, with 26% experiencing symptom rebound and 31% experiencing viral rebound. However, short-term rebounds were common, and only a small percentage of participants experienced both symptom and high-level viral rebound.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 5, 2023

St. Jude tool targets cancer-causing fusions’ weak spot

Researchers at St Jude Children's Research Hospital have developed a tool to comprehensively characterize oncogenic fusions in pediatric cancer cells. The tool has the potential to cure certain tumors by targeting these fusion genes with CRISPR-Cas9, selectively killing cancer cells while leaving healthy ones intact.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 5, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

CABI Distribution Database contributes to synoptic review of plant disease epidemics and outbreaks

The CABI Distribution Database contributed to a synoptic review of plant disease epidemics and outbreaks in 2021, identifying 15 new pathogens reported in Asia, Europe, the USA, and other parts of the Americas. The study highlights the time lag between first reports of a pathogen being made and major disease outbreaks being observed.

SourceCABI·JournalPhytopathology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 5, 2023

Is artificial intelligence better at assessing heart health?

A new study published in Nature finds that artificial intelligence (AI) surpasses human sonographers in accurately assessing cardiac function from echocardiogram studies. The research, conducted at the Smidt Heart Institute, demonstrates AI's potential to improve the quality and effectiveness of heart evaluations.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2023

CycPeptMPDB: A database aimed at promoting drug design using cyclic peptides

A novel database, CycPeptMPDB, has been created to facilitate the development of drugs based on cyclic peptides. The database contains information on thousands of cyclic peptides and their membrane permeability values, enabling researchers to select candidate peptides that can penetrate human cell membranes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 5, 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.

The first map of the Microverse

A German-Dutch research team has created the first map of the Microverse, redefining microbial niches. Generalists, which can cope with a wide range of conditions, dominate most habitats, while specialists have more specific environments and smaller genomes.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 4, 2023

Ethics & Human Research, March–April 2023 Issue

The article discusses concerns about the integrity of research and the well-being of participants due to financial conflicts of interest. The authors argue that disclosing these conflicts to potential participants may not achieve their intended moral goals, highlighting the need for improved policies.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalEthics & Human Research·TypeSurvey·DateApr 4, 2023

Double-anonymous peer review reduces reviewer bias, finds three-year trial

A three-year randomized trial found that double-anonymous peer review reduces reviewer bias, with outcomes similar across author demographics. Single-anonymous review, where authors' identities are known to reviewers, resulted in biased ratings and more invitations for revision.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalFunctional Ecology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 4, 2023

A herbal compound to fight autoimmunity

A team from Osaka University discovered that celastrol blocks the progression of rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting a protein complex that promotes autoimmune responses. The researchers found that celestrol binds to COMMD3 covalently, preventing the formation of the COMMD3/8 complex and impairing antibody production.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 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.

Bacterial signaling across biofilm affected by surface structure

The study found that antibiotics slow down biofilm growth and QS molecule production across both strains, with surface type having a significant effect on the non-mucoid strain. The patterned structure was associated with longer latencies before expression of QS molecules were at their peak.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023

Absolute zero in the quantum computer

Researchers at TU Wien develop a quantum version of the third law of thermodynamics, finding that absolute zero is theoretically attainable but requires infinite energy, time, or complexity. This breakthrough reconciles quantum physics with thermodynamics, paving the way for the development of practical quantum computers.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPRX Quantum·DateApr 4, 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.

Scientists use computational modeling to design “ultrastable” materials

Researchers used computational modeling to identify ultrastable MOF structures, which could be useful for gas storage and catalysis. The study found that about 10,000 of the predicted structures were stable enough for these applications, with high deliverable capacities for methane.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 4, 2023

Study shows link between wealth, health differs across race in young adulthood

A new study from the University of Kansas reveals significant racial wealth gaps and disparities in health outcomes among young adults. The study found that white and Hispanic individuals with higher wealth had better health outcomes, but Black respondents showed a more nuanced relationship between wealth and health. Policymakers argue...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSSM - Population Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 4, 2023

Genome-wide CRISPR screens identify PARP inhibitor sensitivity and resistance in prostate cancer

A recent study identified novel genes that influence PARP inhibitor response in prostate cancer, including MMS22L and RNASEH2B. The research found that loss of CHEK2, a previously approved biomarker, confers resistance to PARP inhibition, highlighting the need for comprehensive genomic analysis to improve treatment decisions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 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.

International panel led by RCSI Professor classifies immunotherapy side effects for the first time

An international panel of experts has developed standardized definitions for immunotherapy side effects, providing a shared vocabulary for clinicians to standardize clinical practice guidelines. This will help support clinicians in offering the best treatment to patients and enable research into biomarkers predicting adverse effects.

SourceRCSI·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateApr 4, 2023

A study by UPF’s BCN MedTech defines a new model for identifying the causes of osteoarthritis in each patient, the basis for personalizing future treatments

A recent study by UPF's BCN MedTech defines a computational model that simulates protein interactions to pinpoint osteoarthritis causes in each patient. This model enables personalized and efficient treatments, which are currently challenging due to the disease's multifactorial origin.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 4, 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.

A cold-specialized icefish species underwent major genetic changes as it migrated to temperate waters, new study finds

A recent study on the pike icefish revealed significant genetic changes as it migrated from Antarctic to temperate waters. The researchers found divergent genes associated with the physiology that needed to change in response to the new environment, including mutations in the antifreeze glycoprotein gene.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023
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.

Detecting, predicting, and preventing aortic ruptures with computational modeling

Using image-based computational blood dynamics, researchers mimicked health conditions and investigated hemodynamic parameters to better understand how aneurysm size affects blood flow. They found that altered blood flow velocity distribution can lead to rupture, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment options.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 4, 2023

Emissions of banned ozone-destroying chemicals increasing

The study found that emissions of five CFCs increased after the production for most uses was phased out in 2010, reaching record-high abundance in 2020. The researchers warned that these emissions could contribute substantially to global warming and negate some benefits gained under the Montreal Protocol.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 4, 2023

Sailing cargo ships can benefit from new aerodynamic tech

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a unique method to reduce ship aerodynamic drag, which could lead to significant energy efficiency gains and reduced fuel consumption. The method uses the Coanda effect to create a more efficient airflow around the ship's superstructure, reducing drag by 7.5%.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 4, 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.

Oncotarget at AACR Annual Meeting 2023

Impact Journals' Oncotarget participates in the AACR Annual Meeting 2023, highlighting its focus on oncology and biomedical sciences. The meeting theme of Advancing the Frontiers of Cancer Science and Medicine aligns with Oncotarget's research goals.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·DateApr 4, 2023

Aging at AACR Annual Meeting 2023

Impact Journals will participate as an exhibitor at the AACR Annual Meeting 2023, showcasing Aging's growth in impact factor to 5.955. The meeting theme focuses on Advancing the Frontiers of Cancer Science and Medicine.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·DateApr 4, 2023

Tired of being alone: How social isolation impacts on our energy

A recent study found that eight hours of social isolation can lead to lower energy levels comparable to eight hours without food. The researchers propose that this is part of our homeostatic response to social contact and may be an adaptive response, but also potentially maladaptive in the long run.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 4, 2023
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.

Discovery could hold the key to healthy aging during global warming

A new study reveals a protein in the nervous system regulates collagen expression, potentially extending human lifespan as temperatures rise. Mutant worms with increased collagen production lived longer and looked younger than wild-type worms under warm temperatures.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAging Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023

Insect decline also occurs in forests

A comprehensive study of 1,805 German forest insect species reveals a dramatic decline in populations over the past decade. The majority of evaluated species have decreased in number, with larger and more abundant species declining particularly.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 4, 2023

Why do females prefer ornate male signals?

A team of researchers at Eötvös Loránd University developed a general formula to calculate honest equilibrium in any model, independent of signal costs. Their results reveal that honesty does not require signal costs to be paid in equilibrium, and that the cost is borne by cheaters, not honest individuals.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalBMC Biology·DateApr 4, 2023

Was plate tectonics occurring when life first formed on Earth?

Researchers used zircon crystals to unlock information about early Earth's magmas and plate tectonic activity, suggesting that the process was occurring more than 4.2 billion years ago. This finding could be beneficial in the search for life on other planets.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 4, 2023

Overwhelmed? Your astrocytes can help with that

Astrocytes tune down overactive neurons during acute stress, helping to regulate attention and perception. This discovery provides new hope for treating attention disorders like ADHD.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 4, 2023
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.

Researchers devise new membrane mirrors for large space-based telescopes

Researchers have developed a new way to produce and shape large, high-quality mirrors that can be rolled up during launch and then precisely reshaped after deployment. The resulting mirrors are flexible enough to be used in space telescopes, enabling larger and more sensitive telescopes to be placed in orbit.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateApr 4, 2023

How an autism gene contributes to infertility

A UC Riverside study identifies how a Fragile X gene mutation contributes to premature ovarian failure, leading to early infertility. Researchers found that the mutation affects neurons regulating reproduction in the brain and ovaries, causing an increase in hormone production and faster secretion rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023

Tumor avatars to fight colorectal cancer

A UNIGE team created customizable treatments by testing drugs on artificial tumors derived from patients' cancer tissue. The approach opens the way for optimized and tailored therapies against various cancers and diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research·TypeNews article·DateApr 4, 2023

New hydrogen-powered electric aircraft research set for take-off

Researchers at the University of Bath are developing a new power system for zero-emissions electric aircraft using liquid hydrogen fuel. The project aims to create a reliable and efficient superconducting DC distribution network, reducing environmental impact and noise in air travel.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateApr 4, 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.

Machine learning reveals magma movement at axial seamount

Researchers used machine learning techniques to analyze seven years' worth of seismic data from Axial Seamount, identifying new signals including fin whale calls, tremors, earthquakes, and lava events. This study improves understanding of volcano dynamics and aids in predicting eruptions.

SourceSeismological Society of America·DateApr 4, 2023

New study in JNCCN identifies approach for improving end-of-life conversations for people with cancer

A new study published in JNCCN identifies a targeted approach to improve end-of-life conversations for people with cancer. Researchers found that specially trained oncology infusion room nurses can increase the rate of advance care planning, leading to more supported decision-making.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 4, 2023
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.

Brain injury toolkit helps support domestic violence survivors

A new approach to trauma-informed care, CARE, has been found to improve support organizations' care for survivors by better recognizing brain injury and addressing its often long-lasting repercussions. The toolkit helps staff proactively recognize these injuries and provides information about head trauma, strangulation, and mental heal...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateApr 4, 2023

Peering into ocular waste recycling

A recent study revealed the key to a protein that commonly causes blindness, including its role in transporting toxic compounds out of the eye. Mutations in this protein can cause vision loss in diseases like Stargardt disease, which affects approximately 30,000 people nationwide.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2023