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Science News for August 14, 2023


Institutions with strong engineering operations are more efficient in producing patents, researchers find

Researchers created a database linking utility patents and NIH funding to assess translational efficiency. The Translational Ratio metric provides insights into patenting efficiency and its impact on drug innovation and treatment development. Institutions with strong engineering operations tend to be more successful in producing patents.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 14, 2023

How our tastes influence our creativity

Researchers studied how tastes influence creativity by analyzing brain networks and individual preferences. They found that the subjective evaluation of ideas plays a crucial role in creativity, and that individuals have different creative profiles related to their fields of activity.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalAmerican Psychologist·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Denmark is crawling with the world's most resilient creature

Researchers discovered a vast array of tardigrade species in Denmark, with unique DNA sequences detected in 96 samples, highlighting their adaptability to various environments. The findings shed light on the incredible survival abilities of these tiny creatures, which can withstand extreme conditions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateAug 14, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists explore dinosaur ‘coliseum’ in Denali National Park

Researchers discovered the largest known single dinosaur track site in Alaska, dubbed 'The Coliseum', which contains layer upon layer of prints preserved in rock. The site provides a unique record of multiple species of dinosaurs thriving in Interior Alaska nearly 70 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalHistorical Biology·DateAug 14, 2023

A fate determination fork-in-the-road for germinal center Tfh and T memory cells

Scientists at UAB identify a cell-surface marker that distinguishes PD-1+CXCR5+CD4+ T cells destined to become GC-Tfh cells from those becoming long-lived memory CXCR5+CD4+ T cells. The study reveals the critical role of c-Maf in the transition step from pre-Tfh to GC-Tfh cell differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Like beads on a chain

A team of researchers developed a computational simulation that explains key mechanism of DNA segregation, providing new insights into the distribution of genetic information during bacterial cell division. The study reveals fundamental biochemical principles relevant to synthetic biology and medical applications.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 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.

New technique illuminates how abnormal RNA splicing leads to disease

Researchers developed a new technique, GoT-Splice, to analyze RNA splicing in individual cells, revealing how mutations in genes controlling this process lead to diseases. The study linked these mutations to specific changes in immature red blood cells and discovered disruptions in the gene BAX.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 14, 2023

New study charts exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection in Canada throughout the pandemic

A new study reveals that most Canadians now have hybrid immunity against SARS-CoV-2, with infection-acquired seroprevalence rising dramatically after the Omicron variant circulated in Canada. The study found that younger age groups showed faster increases in infection-acquired immunity, reaching over 75% by March 2023.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 14, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Dry lightning can spark wildfires even under wetter conditions

A Washington State University-led study found that dry lightning can cause wildfires despite up to 7.7 mm of precipitation, posing a risk for responders to detect fires earlier. The research analyzed data on over 4,600 naturally caused fires and found holdover fires, which can smolder for days before exploding into full-blown wildfires.

SourceWashington State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 14, 2023

Astronomers confirm Maisie’s galaxy is among earliest ever observed

Astronomers have confirmed that Maisie's galaxy is among the earliest galaxies detected by the James Webb Space Telescope. The galaxy, first spotted last summer, is estimated to be 390 million years after the Big Bang, making it one of the four earliest confirmed galaxies observed.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 2023

USC Stem Cell mouse studies tune into hearing regeneration

Researchers found that epigenetic silencing shuts off key genes required for sensory cell conversion. Enzyme TET can remove methyl groups to reverse gene silencing and restore hearing capability. Progenitor cells in deaf ears may already be primed to convert into sensory hearing cells.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Riding a wave to better medical diagnosis

Researchers at UBC Okanagan's Integrated Optics Laboratory develop imaging systems that apply terahertz radiation, enabling fast and accurate characterization of biological specimens. This technology holds promise for improving diagnostic imaging and detecting carcinogenesis.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScientific Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 14, 2023

Government regulation can effectively curb social media dangers

A study published in PNAS found that government-mandated external moderation is likely to be effective in limiting harm on fast-paced platforms like X. The researchers examined the dynamics of content dissemination and found that a lower half-life means most harm happens right after content is posted.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 14, 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.

For two backyard bird species, more light pollution is linked to lower survival

A new study by North Carolina State University researchers found that artificial light at night links with lower survival for two backyard bird species, the gray catbird and house wren. The study used data from a citizen-science program to investigate how light pollution affects birds' survival rates.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalUrban Ecosystems·DateAug 14, 2023

Study: Intensive lifestyle counseling and education by health specialists associated with higher employment rate among people with Type 2 diabetes

A new study found that intensive lifestyle intervention, including weekly counseling on diet and exercise, is associated with increased employment among people with type 2 diabetes. Study participants without a college degree had even larger employment gains from lifestyle changes recommended by specialists.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 14, 2023

Exposing the hidden genetic diversity of an ecologically harmful microbe

Researchers sequenced the genome of Prymnesium parvum, a microscopic algae species causing toxic blooms in US waters. The study found significant genetic variation among strains, suggesting multiple populations and potential hybridization cases. This discovery could improve prediction models for algal blooms and ecosystem disruption.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 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.

Gene therapy may offer a new treatment strategy for alcohol use disorder

Researchers have discovered that gene therapy may prevent relapse in patients with serious alcohol addiction by altering dopamine function in the brain's mesolimbic reward pathway. The treatment involves sustained release of glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in a specific region of the brain.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 14, 2023

Dark energy could be measured by studying the galaxy next door

Researchers have found that studying the mass and movement of the Andromeda galaxy and the Milky Way could help place an upper limit on the value of dark energy. The technique may provide valuable insights into the mysterious force, but it is not yet a direct detection.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 14, 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.

Mindfulness should be about more than just ‘me’ – new study

A new review challenges the dominant Western approach to mindfulness, emphasizing its potential to foster connection with others and the natural world. The study suggests mindfulness can be used to address issues like eco-anxiety and promote a sense of place within nature.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Contemporary Psychotherapy·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 14, 2023

Digital puzzle games could be good for memory in older adults, study shows

A new study by the University of York found that digital puzzle games enhance memory abilities in older adults, similar to those of people in their 20s. However, strategy games did not show the same improvements. The study suggests that brain storage information changes with age, and future research should focus on this connection.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalHeliyon·DateAug 14, 2023

Is lumbopelvic pain in pregnancy under-reported?

A new study found that only 43% of pregnant women with lower back and pelvic girdle pain reported their symptoms to healthcare providers. Of those who did report the pain, 80% received effective treatment. Healthcare providers should ask about lumbopelvic pain in pregnant patients, especially if it disrupts daily activities.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Women s Health·TypeCase study·DateAug 14, 2023

Cancer-infecting virus ‘warms up’ cold tumors and improves immunotherapy

Researchers have developed an oncolytic virus that can 'warm up' cold tumors and improve immunotherapy outcomes. The virus was engineered to carry a gene encoding a TGF-β inhibitor, which greatly increased survival rates in mice with aggressive melanoma and other cancers.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 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.

Wildfires and farming activities may be top sources of air pollution linked to increased risk, cases of dementia

Researchers from University of Michigan found a strong link between air pollution from wildfires and farming activities, and the risk of developing dementia. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 30,000 adults over 18 years, suggests that reducing exposure to these sources of emissions may help lower the incidence of dementia.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 14, 2023

Irrigating more US crops by mid-century will be worth the investment

A Dartmouth-led study suggests that expanded irrigation of corn and soybeans in the US could outweigh costs by mid-century. The research found that certain regions, such as North Dakota and Michigan, would benefit from irrigation due to increasing drought conditions.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Is there a link between a mother's mental well-being and their children's?

A new study in rural Uganda found a significant relationship between maternal adverse childhood experiences and child mental health problems. Maternal depression may play a vital role in transmitting these effects across generations, highlighting the need for prioritizing mental health support.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalAmerican Journal of Biological Anthropology·DateAug 14, 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.

Experts: Chronic pain patients who take opioids need better care & coverage

Chronic pain patients who take opioids need access to gold-standard multi-modal pain care, including physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and integrative medicine techniques. The experts recommend restructuring insurance models, enhancing provider education, and addressing racial inequities in care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Pain Research·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 14, 2023

Replicating the internal environment of a lung cancer patient’s body

Researchers successfully recreated lung cancer patient's internal environment using hydrogel and 3D bioprinting, preserving specific lung cancer subtype and genetic mutation characteristics. The study enables precise drug evaluation and personalized treatment options for lung cancer patients with underlying diseases.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiofabrication·DateAug 14, 2023

Dogs can detect COVID-19 infections faster and more accurately than conventional technology, demonstrating readiness for mainstream medical applications

A growing number of studies highlights the power of dogs in detecting COVID-19 and its variants, even when obscured by other viruses. Trained scent dogs are as effective and often more effective than antigen tests and RT-PCR tests, detecting the virus faster and without environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Osteopathic Medicine·DateAug 14, 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.

Study shows a new approach to target a deadly form of prostate cancer

Researchers have found a promising new mechanism to target aggressive forms of prostate cancer, where the LSD1 protein is involved. By inhibiting LSD1, the tumor suppressor gene p53 can be reactivated, leading to suppression of tumor growth.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Shielding from COVID-19: Unravelling the policy

A Swansea University study explores the rationale behind the UK's COVID-19 shielding policy for clinically vulnerable individuals, finding it was an untested strategy based on risk mitigation rather than evidence-based intervention. The research reveals challenges in implementing the policy and its impact on organizations and populations.

SourceSwansea University·JournalBMJ Open·DateAug 14, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Study demonstrates the value of citizen science to monitor natural enemy in fight against invasive Siam weed

A new study demonstrates the value of citizen science in monitoring a natural enemy that fights invasive Siam weed. Citizen scientists on iNaturalist.org shared observations of the moth Pareuchaetes pseudoinsulata, confirming its establishment in several countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, and West Malaysia.

SourceCABI·JournalCABI Agriculture and Bioscience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Publicly fund nonsurgical procedures for transgender, gender diverse people

A commentary suggests that governments should consider publicly funding minimally invasive procedures, such as hair removal and facial injectables, to support transgender and gender diverse individuals. These procedures are already recommended by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care Version 8.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 14, 2023

Microbial corrosion of iron

Researchers found that bacteria with electrically conductive protein threads can corrode iron anaerobically, producing magnetite that facilitates further corrosion. The discovery has significant implications for corrosion protection and suggests taking material properties into consideration.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 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.

Nanoscale material offers new way to control fire

Researchers developed a nanoscale material technique called inverse thermal degradation (ITD) to control high-temperature flames and tune material properties. By regulating oxygen access, ITD allows for smoldering rather than bursting into flames, producing carbon tubes with desired characteristics.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Scientists identify genes linked to high production of key antibody

Researchers have identified key genes involved in producing large amounts of immunoglobulin G, a crucial antibody in the human body. The discovery could lead to advancements in manufacturing antibody-based therapies for diseases such as cancer and arthritis.

SourceCalifornia NanoSystems Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023
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.

Study brings insight to kidney cancer with gene mutation

Researchers studied over 800 clinical assays on renal tumors with MiTF family genes TFE3 and TFEB. The findings show significant age differences between patients with TFEB amplification and those with TFE3 or TFEB translocation, with TFEB amplification being associated with poorer prognosis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Pathology·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 14, 2023

Socioeconomic adversity and weight gain during the pandemic

Researchers found significant increases in body mass index among US youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, with effects most pronounced in low-income youth. The study highlights how preexisting social inequalities were exacerbated by the pandemic, leading to greater weight gain among vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 14, 2023

Integrated mental health care in pediatric primary care at Federally Qualified Health Centers linked to improvements in school functioning, study finds

Research found integrated behavioral health care improves children's mental health and school performance, supporting the potential benefits of pediatric integrated behavioral health care. The study, which included 51 children served by FQHCs in Massachusetts, showed significant improvements over 12 months.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateAug 14, 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.

A new way to evaluate the impact of medical research

Researchers developed a 'diversity factor' metric to capture paper's impact on health outcomes for all patients, particularly those in low- or middle-income countries. Most medical papers fail to meet this metric due to lack of diversity among authors and patient populations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateAug 14, 2023

China’s oldest water pipes were a communal effort

A new study reveals a 4,000-year-old system of ceramic water pipes in China demonstrates that neolithic people were capable of complex engineering feats without a centralised state authority. The discovery challenges earlier understanding in archaeological fields.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Water·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 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.

New model for the drinking water market in Jordan

A new computer model quantifies the black market for drinking water in Jordan, revealing that 91% of traded water is extracted illegally. The study predicts a significant increase in household dependence on private water suppliers due to decreasing public water supply infrastructure.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 14, 2023

Pandemic weight gain in kids influenced by family income

A study found that adolescents from low-income families gained more weight during the pandemic, with girls experiencing accelerated weight gain. The researchers tracked over 400 low-income Hispanic families and compared their weight gain to a cohort of wealthier families.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 2023
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.

PSMA PET/CT waives the need for pre-imaging biopsy in elderly patients

A study found that PSMA PET/CT can accurately diagnose advanced prostate cancer in elderly patients without the need for a biopsy. The procedure reduced the number of biopsies and associated complications, while providing clinical suspicion-based staging data.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 14, 2023

Inoue receives funding for Mason CARES Plus

Megumi Inoue received funding for Mason CARES Plus to assess the impact of Stress Busting Program (SBP) and Music and Memory program on reducing care partner stress. The study aims to identify effective strategies for improving care partner engagement with M&M program.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateAug 14, 2023

Chromium replaces rare and expensive noble metals

Chemists at the University of Basel have developed chromium compounds that can replace osmium and ruthenium in luminescent materials and catalysts. The new materials are nearly as effective as some osmium compounds and are about 20,000 times more abundant and cheaper than their noble metal counterparts.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 14, 2023

What’s your masculine style: Neo-traditional, egalitarian or progressive?

A study of 92 straight men found that neo-traditional, egalitarian, and progressive masculinities have different benefits and challenges for mental well-being. Men who promote gender equity report improved mental health, while those who challenge these ideals may face isolation or criticism.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 14, 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.

Self-driving cars can make traffic slower

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that connected vehicles improve travel time through intersections, but automated vehicles without connectivity actually increase wait times. The study suggests that incorporating vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication is crucial for optimizing traffic flow.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Social determinants of health contribute to higher CVD mortality rates in Black persons

A large US study found that social determinants of health are a major factor contributing to higher cardiovascular disease mortality rates in Black individuals compared to Whites. The study analyzed data from over 50,000 adults and found significant associations between social factors such as unemployment and food insecurity with CVD m...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 14, 2023
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.

Can AI help hospitals spot patients in need of extra non-medical assistance?

A new study shows that a rule-based natural language processing tool successfully identified patients with unstable access to transportation, food insecurity, social isolation, financial problems, and signs of abuse or exploitation. The tool performed better than deep learning algorithms in identifying these social determinants of health.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Services Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 14, 2023

Scientists outline a new strategy for understanding the origin of life

Scientists propose a new method to study the origin of life by merging laboratory experiments and evolutionary biology. Electron transport chains, crucial for energy metabolism in all living organisms, are identified as a key area of study.

SourceOberlin College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 14, 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.

Bear-human coexistence rethought

A new study by Paula Mayer proposes a practical tool for identifying areas of high human-bear conflict in the Abruzzo region. The model considers factors such as habitat suitability, migration corridors, and human-made food resources to inform local measures promoting coexistence.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal for Nature Conservation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Stem-cell derived organoids secrete tooth enamel proteins

Researchers successfully created stem-cell derived organoids from human stem cells that secrete three essential enamel proteins. These proteins form a matrix that undergoes mineralization to create a hardened enamel structure. The breakthrough offers hope for developing novel treatments to repair and regenerate teeth.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

The anatomy of memory: new mnemomic networks discovered in the brain

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences have identified distinct cortical networks associated with subregions of the human medial temporal lobe. The study used precision neuroimaging to explore the distributed anatomy of the MTL, overcoming previous challenges in studying this region.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalNeuron·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 14, 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.

Making plant-based meat alternatives more palatable

Researchers at the University of Leeds have created plant protein microgels that transform dry plant proteins into hydrated ones, mimicking the sensation of fat. The breakthrough could lead to the development of healthier, palatable, and sustainable plant-based foods.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Neutrons seek to stop cancer from hijacking a metabolic highway

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing new cancer treatments that target the metabolic pathway hijacked by cancer cells. Using neutrons and x-rays, researchers mapped the enzyme structure to design roadblocks along the pathway.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateAug 14, 2023

Transforming flies into degradable plastics

Researchers have successfully transformed black soldier fly carcasses into degradable plastics through a process of extraction and purification. The resulting bioplastics can absorb water and potentially address drought situations, making them a promising solution for sustainable agriculture.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 14, 2023

Source of hidden consciousness in ‘comatose’ brain injury patients found

Researchers have identified patterns of brain injury that underlie hidden consciousness, a phenomenon where brain-injured patients appear unconscious despite having some level of awareness. The study found that all patients with hidden consciousness had intact brain structures related to arousal and command comprehension.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalBrain·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 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.

New directions in microbiomes

A new open-access journal, eGastroenterology, has been launched to accelerate research in gastroenterology and hepatology. The journal focuses on applying real-world data to guide clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateAug 14, 2023

Lifestyle factors in the association of shift work and depression and anxiety

A large study of 175,000 participants found that shift work significantly increases the risk of depression and anxiety. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and social connections, partially mediate this association, highlighting the need for public health interventions to promote healthy lifestyles among shift workers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 14, 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.

Study shows promise of gene therapy for alcohol use disorder

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have found that implanting a specific molecule in the brain can effectively reduce alcohol use among chronic heavy drinkers. The study showed a 90% reduction in drinking behavior in nonhuman primates, with the implanted virus permanently increasing dopamine levels and reducing cravings.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Researchers develop a unique quantum mechanical approach to determining metal ductility

Researchers developed a unique approach to predict metal ductility using quantum mechanics, filling the need for an inexpensive and efficient method. The new approach was tested on refractory multi-principal-element alloys and showed robust results, confirming its effectiveness in distinguishing between ductile and brittle materials.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalActa Materialia·DateAug 14, 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.