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Science News for August 11, 2023


USTC develops new catalysts for CO2 electroreduction

Researchers at USTC have developed a novel catalyst that achieves high electrochemical performance in both neutral and alkaline media. The asymmetric dinitrogen-coordinated nickel single-atomic sites enhance the intrinsic activity of the sites, resulting in a high turnover frequency of over 274,000 site−1 h−1.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2023

Mosquito hearing could be targeted by insecticides

A new study reveals that mosquitoes use a specific receptor in their ears to modulate their hearing, which is crucial for reproduction and mating. This discovery could lead to the development of novel insecticides or mating disruptors to control mosquito populations and reduce human disease.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 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.

Hidden moles in hidden holes

Scientists have identified two new mole species in eastern Turkey, belonging to the Talpa genus, which has been living undiscovered for up to 3 million years. The study, using cutting-edge DNA technology, confirms their biological distinctness from other moles in the group.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023

Researchers reveal mechanism triggering Arctic daily warming

A new study reveals the connection between Arctic daily warming and equator region as well as Atlantic storms, shedding light on the impact of North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the phenomenon. The research provides a new perspective on weather and climate changes in the Arctic.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateAug 11, 2023

Social media use interventions alleviate symptoms of depression

A systematic review found that social media use interventions improved mental wellbeing in over a third of studies, with significant improvements in depression. Therapy-based interventions were most effective, with 83% improvement rates compared to limited or no social media use.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 11, 2023

Behind the rind: new genomic insights into watermelon evolution, quality, and resilience

Scientists at the Boyce Thompson Institute have constructed a comprehensive 'super-pangenome' for watermelon and its wild relatives, uncovering beneficial genes lost during domestication. This genetic toolkit can be used to develop varieties with enhanced yield, increased disease resistance, and improved adaptability.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 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.

Playing football may increase the risk for Parkinson’s disease

Researchers found a significant link between playing tackle football and the risk of parkinsonism or PD diagnosis, even after accounting for known risk factors. Players who played at higher levels of competition experienced increased odds for having a reported diagnosis of PD.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2023

CORRECTION: Outdoor air pollution may increase non-lung cancer risk in older adults

A Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found that chronic exposure to fine particulate air pollutants (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) increases the risk of colorectal and prostate cancers in older adults. NO2 exposure was also associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, while PM2.5 exposure had mixed results.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2023

Researchers discover quasar-driven superbubble pairs

Researchers have discovered quasar-driven superbubble pairs, providing evidence for the outflow mechanism in galaxy evolution. These pairs, which extend over 60,000 light-years, are generated by quasars driving gas into intergalactic space.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023

More than 2 million additional Americans faced food insufficiency following drawdown of pandemic-related SNAP benefits, Penn Medicine study finds

A new study by Penn Medicine found that the discontinuation of pandemic-related SNAP benefits led to a significant increase in food insufficiency in the US. The study found that households affected by the benefit cuts experienced a 21% relative increase in both food insufficiency and food insufficiency among children, affecting over 2 ...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateAug 11, 2023

Football participation and Parkinson disease among men

Research suggests football participation is associated with a higher odds of developing parkinsonism or Parkinson's disease. Longer football play duration and intensity are linked to an increased risk of diagnosis, highlighting the potential health risks for athletes involved in contact sports.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 11, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Malaria vaccine candidate appears safe and produces promising immune response in a cohort of Tanzanian infants

A new malaria vaccine candidate has shown promising results in a cohort of Tanzanian infants, with substantial anti-RH5 immune responses achieved safely through vaccination. The vaccine targets the RH5 protein used by the malaria pathogen to invade red blood cells, providing a second line of defense against disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalMed·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023

SLU ethicists, leading scholars publish guidance for parents, physicians making medical decisions for children

A group of leading scholars in pediatric ethics have published six recommendations for guiding parents and clinicians in medical decision-making for children. The recommendations aim to provide a unified set of principles that will be more accessible and applicable for clinicians, parents, and legal guardians.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 11, 2023

Using the body’s “invisible scalpel” to remove brain cancer

Researchers find immunotherapy treatment anti-CTLA-4 leads to greater survival in mice with glioblastoma and discover new way cells kill cancer by triggering microglia, specialized immune cells in the brain. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments for human brain cancer.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalImmunity·DateAug 11, 2023

A quantum leap in mechanical oscillator technology

Researchers at EPFL develop a superconducting circuit optomechanical platform with ultra-low quantum decoherence, enabling high-fidelity quantum control and long-term quantum storage. The breakthrough achieved record-breaking thermal decoherence rates of only 20 Hz.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 11, 2023

De-code of the crop

A research group at Kyoto University has successfully developed a self-fertile buckwheat variety and a new type of the crop with a sticky texture. This breakthrough could contribute to the efficient breeding of less-common orphan crops, addressing the world's growing food demands.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 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.

Chemicals from maize roots influence wheat yield

Researchers from the University of Bern found that maize roots secrete chemicals that improve soil quality and increase wheat yields. The study demonstrates potential for using specialized plant compounds to enhance crop productivity through variety-specific rotations.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023

Even treated wastewater affects our rivers

A new study by Goethe University Frankfurt found that effluents from treated wastewater treatment plants alter invertebrate communities in Hesse's waters. Pollution-tolerant taxa like worms and crustaceans increase, while sensitive species like stonefly and caddisfly larvae decline.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalWater Research·DateAug 11, 2023

Research raises hopes for new treatment of fusion-driven cancer

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a gene therapy that can stop cell division in a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) by targeting the drivers of the disease. The study suggests that this technology can become a platform for treating other fusion-driven cancers, such as lung cancers and sarcomas.

SourceAarhus University·JournalLeukemia·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023

Researchers identify 135 new melanin genes responsible for pigmentation

A study published in Science has identified 135 previously unknown genes associated with pigmentation, shedding light on the regulation of melanin production in humans. The research could help protect lighter-skinned individuals from skin cancer and develop new treatments for vitiligo and other pigmentation diseases.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience·DateAug 11, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ultrafast lasers for materials processing

A new type of ultrafast laser technology is being developed to create high-precision microstructures, such as those needed for smartphone displays. The project aims to make the technology cheaper and more efficient, with potential applications in glass processing, polymer ablating, and future laser surgery.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateAug 11, 2023

New insights into the potential for early steps of biological evolution on Mars

A team of scientists discovered evidence for sustained wet-dry cycling on early Mars, essential for prebiotic chemical evolution and the emergence of life. The findings suggest that ancient Martian mudstones may have hosted conditions conducive to complex organic molecule formation and pre-biotic chemistry.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 11, 2023

Arctic monitoring program plays vital role in global pollution reduction efforts

The Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) has played a vital role in recognizing and mitigating environmental pollution and climate change in the Arctic. Its efforts have led to significant reductions in pollutants in the Arctic and influenced global agreements, inspiring similar initiatives in other regions.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateAug 11, 2023

Direct evidence for modified gravity at low acceleration from Gaia observations of wide binary stars

A new study by Kyu-Hyun Chae found conclusive evidence for the breakdown of standard gravity in low acceleration limit using up to 26,500 wide binaries observed by Gaia. The results show a boost factor of 30-40% higher than Newton-Einstein prediction, meeting conventional criteria of 5 sigma significance.

SourceSejong University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 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 “film” novel catalyst at work

Researchers have developed a novel catalysis scheme that enables previously impossible chemical reactions without the use of rare and precious metals. The method uses light to activate the catalyst, allowing for the optimization of the process.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023

Study: Infant formula safety checks can be improved with stratified sampling

A new study from the University of Illinois finds that stratified sampling is more effective at catching contaminants in infant formula than random sampling. The researchers used computer models to simulate testing finished formula and suggest ways to improve safety plans.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Food Protection·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 11, 2023

Interdisciplinary team studies decomposition effects on soil

A multidisciplinary team analyzed soil samples from underneath decomposing human bodies to understand the release of elements such as sulfur, phosphorus, and calcium. The study found unexpected concentrations of these elements in the soils, which could aid investigators in locating missing persons and estimating time of death.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 11, 2023
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.

A roadmap to help AI technologies speak African languages

Researchers in Africa have developed a roadmap to create better AI-driven tools for African languages, addressing the limited availability of language data. The study identifies key players and themes to consider in designing effective language tools, including writers, linguists, software engineers, and entrepreneurs.

SourceCell Press·JournalPatterns·TypeSurvey·DateAug 11, 2023

AI helps scientists generate Z-flipon map

Researchers used AI to predict Z-DNA fragment locations that overlap with known mutations causing severe hereditary diseases. These fragments can influence traits and body processes, including hair color, height, weight, and cholesterol levels.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalLife Science Alliance·DateAug 11, 2023

Raising awareness of Long Covid ‘blue legs’ symptom

A new research case study published in The Lancet highlights the need for greater awareness of the 'blue legs' symptom associated with Long Covid. Acrocyanosis, a venous pooling of blood in the legs, can be a symptom of dysautonomia and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in patients with Long Covid.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 11, 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.

Could artificially dimming the sun prevent ice melt?

A new study investigates whether artificially dimming the sun could prevent the melting of West Antarctic ice sheets. The results show that artificial influence does not work without decarbonization and entails high risks, highlighting the importance of rapid climate mitigation measures.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2023

New concussion headset shows when it's safe to return to play

A new digital headset can detect subtle forces exerted on the skull as the heart contracts, revealing brain changes even in athletes whose symptoms have subsided. The device could help clinicians and coaches make more informed decisions about when athletes are ready to return to play after a concussion.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 11, 2023

Arrays of quantum rods could enhance TVs or virtual reality devices

Researchers develop a new method to assemble arrays of quantum rods onto patterned DNA scaffolds, enabling precise control over light emission and polarization. This breakthrough could enhance virtual reality devices and microLEDs with improved depth and dimensionality.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023
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.

Hundred-year storms? That's how long they last on Saturn.

Researchers found long-term disruptions in Saturn's atmosphere, caused by past megastorms, which persist for hundreds of years. The study revealed that ammonia gas is being transported from the upper to lower atmosphere via precipitation and reevaporation processes.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023

Artificial intelligence designs advanced materials

Scientists at Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung developed a machine learning model that enhances predictive accuracy in alloy design, uncovering new corrosion-resistant compositions. The model combines numerical and textual data, enabling the identification of optimal alloy formulas.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023

Synthetic extracellular matrix supports endometrial organoids

Scientists have developed a synthetic extracellular matrix that can support the growth of mini endometria in a dish for at least two weeks. This allows researchers to study its role in healthy and diseased states, such as endometriosis, by extrapolating from patient samples.

SourceCell Press·JournalMed·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 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.