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Science News for August 22, 2023


U of M research team successfully tests new antifungal therapy for fungal meningitis

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have successfully tested a new oral antifungal therapy, Lipid Nanocrystal Amphotericin B, against cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-positive individuals. The treatment demonstrated improved survival rates and reduced toxicity compared to conventional intravenous amphotericin B.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 22, 2023

Birds living at UCLA were less afraid of humans after the pandemic closure

Researchers found that birds allowed people to get much closer than expected, with an average distance of just 39 inches, suggesting a significant decrease in fear response. The study's findings challenge existing theories on bird behavior and may offer hope for North American bird populations threatened by human disturbances.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateAug 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ChatGPT shows ‘impressive’ accuracy in clinical decision making

A new study found ChatGPT to be nearly 72 percent accurate across all medical specialties and phases of clinical care. It was also 77 percent accurate in making final diagnoses. However, the model struggled with differential diagnosis, which is a crucial aspect of medicine.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

HKUST researchers find how stem cell niche guides differentiation into functional cells, significant step towards stem cell therapies

Researchers at HKUST have found that the stem cell niche uses gap junctions to transport cAMP into stem cell progeny, controlling their differentiation. This discovery is significant for developing stem cell therapies to treat diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Tick- and mosquito-borne diseases prevalent in shelter dogs

A study found more than one in five infected shelter dogs with heartworm or Lyme disease, highlighting the importance of preventive medications. The research also showed that climate change is expanding the geographic range of disease-carrying ticks and mosquitoes.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateAug 22, 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.

AI can predict certain forms of esophageal and stomach cancer

A new AI tool predicts certain forms of esophageal and stomach cancer at least three years prior to diagnosis. The K-ECAN tool uses basic EHR data to identify high-risk patients, who may benefit from earlier screening and preventative measures.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalGastroenterology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Heat sensor protects the Venus flytrap from fire

The Venus flytrap uses special heat receptors in its sensory hairs to detect and respond to rising temperatures, protecting its vital snap traps from damage. This allows the plant to continue hunting for food after a fire has ravaged its surroundings.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

This fish doesn't just see with its eyes -- it also sees with its skin.

Hogfish use their skin to view themselves and fine-tune color changes, a sensory feedback mechanism that lets them monitor their surroundings. Researchers have found light-sensitive opsin proteins in the skin, allowing them to capture changes in light that are filtered through pigment-filled cells.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 22, 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.

Statistician earns $1.7M to study long-term effects of neighborhood exposures and racial segregation on cancer risk

A statistician at Virginia Commonwealth University has been awarded a $1.7 million grant to investigate the long-term effects of neighborhood exposures and racial segregation on cancer risk. The researcher aims to better understand how geographic and socioeconomic factors contribute to disparities in cancer incidence and mortality.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·DateAug 22, 2023

New platform could boost development of carbon-capturing batteries

Researchers have developed a lab-on-a-chip electrochemical testing platform to speed up the production of catalysts for Li-CO2 batteries. The new method enables quick screening of materials, studying reaction mechanisms, and practical applications, potentially contributing to negative emissions technologies.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

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.

Intense ultraviolet-visible-infrared full-spectrum laser

A team of scientists has developed an intense four-octave-spanning ultraviolet-visible-infrared full-spectrum laser source using a cascaded architecture of gas-filled hollow-core fiber, lithium niobate crystal, and chirped periodically poled lithium niobate crystal. The system leverages the synergic action of second-order nonlinear eff...

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 22, 2023

Dog brains are tuned to female’s dog-directed speech

A study found that dogs are more sensitive to speech directed at them than adult-directed speech, with a greater response to female voices. The researchers measured dog brain activity via fMRI and found that the sensitivity was affected by voice pitch and variation.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateAug 22, 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.

Coffee offers performance boost for concrete

Engineers at RMIT University have developed a technique to make concrete 30% stronger using biochar made from roasted used-coffee grounds. This innovation reduces waste going to landfills and emits fewer greenhouse gases, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Remoteness did little to reduce COVID-19 spread to Amazonian Tsimané

A new study found that voluntary collective isolation was unlikely to prevent rapid spread of COVID-19 among the Tsimané, a small-scale Indigenous society in remote Amazonia. The simulation predicted nearly identical rates of infection in real-world data, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and medical resources

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 22, 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.

Mapping methane emissions from rivers around globe reveals surprising sources

Rivers and streams worldwide emit substantial amounts of methane, with human activity playing a primary role in controlling these emissions. The study's findings suggest that conservation and restoration efforts could reduce methane production, improving climate change dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Want to increase resiliency in kids? Teach creativity

A study found that teaching children literary techniques such as perspective-shifting, counter-factual thinking and causal thinking improved their ability to solve problems and come up with creative solutions. The training increased their sense of self-efficacy and helped them develop a second plan when things didn't go as expected.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Creativity·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Speckle diffraction tomography reveals nanoscale features in thick biological specimens

Scientists have developed speckle diffraction tomography, which enables high-resolution images of thick biological samples with lateral resolution up to 500 nanometers. The technique offers full-field quantitative imaging capabilities, revealing nanoscale features in complex specimens.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 22, 2023

Diabetes Magazine Paper of the Month features Pennington Biomedical research demonstrating the link between exercise and improved pancreatic function and insulin secretion

A recent study by Pennington Biomedical Research Center identifies GDF15 as a protein that acts as a cellular signal to enhance insulin secretion. High-intensity exercise training in patients with type 2 diabetes was found to have elevated levels of GDF15, associated with improved glycemic control.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·JournalDiabetes·DateAug 22, 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.

Understanding river alteration via shifting flow regime

Researchers investigate drastic short-term alterations in rivers due to shifts in vegetation and geomorphology, attributed to climate change and human factors. The study found that Naeseongcheon Stream experienced significant vegetation encroachment after a drought, leading to rapid alteration from a white river to a green river.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalRiver Research and Applications·DateAug 22, 2023

Innovative breakthrough in sustainable chemical production

Researchers developed a bioelectrochemical system that efficiently converts CO2 to butyric acid and then upgrades it to butanol, a valuable biofuel. The process produces high yields with low energy requirements, offering promise for sustainable chemical production.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateAug 22, 2023

Dramatic reductions in malaria cases and deaths continue over five years with seasonal malaria vaccine-drug combination

The Phase 3 study confirmed that combining the RTS,S vaccine with antimalarial drugs reduces clinical malaria episodes, severe malaria cases, and deaths from malaria in young children by nearly two-thirds compared to either intervention alone. The vaccine-drug combination provided greater than 90% protection against malaria episodes.

SourcePATH·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 22, 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.

A peptide that can cross the blood-brain barrier

Researchers develop a novel tetrapeptide GFFY that can self-assemble into nanospheres and deliver imaging agents to the brain with increased efficiency. The peptide's mechanism of penetration involves specific binding to IR receptors on the blood-brain barrier.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Materials·DateAug 22, 2023

Bronze Age family systems deciphered: Mainz palaeogeneticists analyse a 3,800-year-old extended family

A groundbreaking study has unraveled the secrets of a 3,800-year-old extended family from a Bronze Age necropolis in the Russian steppe. The research reveals that most women buried in the kurgan were immigrants, while their sisters found new homes elsewhere, highlighting the importance of female marriage mobility in prehistoric societies.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCase study·DateAug 22, 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.

Delineating the pathways of warm water towards East Antarctica’s Totten Glacier

A multinational team of researchers studied the flow of warm water to the Totten Ice Shelf, revealing crucial details on how Circumpolar Deep Water interacts with the glacier and accelerates melting processes. The findings highlight the importance of bathymetry and regional circulation in regulating ocean heat transport towards the ice...

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2023

New epoxy resin resists flames and reduces waste

Researchers from Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have developed a fully recyclable, flame-retardant epoxy resin-based plastic. The new material retains excellent thermomechanical properties while being reshaped like a thermoplast due to the addition of a special phosphonate ester molecule.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Researchers reveal Van Hove singularity at Fermi level in Kagome Superconductor

The researchers discovered the van Hove singularity (VHS) in CsV3-xTaxSb5 at the Fermi level, which contributes to superconductivity. The VHS position is strongly correlated with the superconducting transition temperature, revealing its feasibility for enhanced superconductivity in kagome superconductors.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2023

Guiding the design of silicon devices with improved efficiency

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a computational methodology to accurately calculate Auger-Meitner recombination rates in silicon. This breakthrough enables a detailed understanding of the process, which is crucial for reducing its impact on device efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Michigan College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

BU commentary: Vitamin D supplementation was found to improve more than 1.5 fold survival of cancers of the digestive tract including colorectal cancer in patients with a cancer fighting immune system

A new commentary suggests that vitamin D supplementation can improve survival outcomes for patients with digestive tract cancers, particularly those with a high-risk genetic makeup. The study found that patients with antibodies to control the production of mutated p53 protein saw improved survival rates when taking daily vitamin D3 sup...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 22, 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.

Steam condenser coating could save 460M tons of CO2 annually

Researchers developed a fluorinated diamond-like carbon coating that improves heat transfer in steam condensers, allowing for a 2% overall process boost. This innovation could save 460 million tons of CO2 and 2 trillion gallons of water annually if coal and natural gas power generation were just 2% more efficient.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2023

BU research probes the contradictory roles of SAA in fighting inflammation and infection while triggering life-threatening disease

A new study by Boston University researchers found that Serum Amyloid A (SAA) acts as a universal protein detergent to clear cell membrane debris from wounds and inflammation sites. However, high levels of SAA can also promote fibrous deposits in vital organs like the kidney and liver, leading to life-threatening disease AA amyloidosis.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

Sharing chemical knowledge between human and machine

Researchers developed an AI tool called DECIMER that can translate chemical structural formulae into machine-readable codes. This allows for the automatic search and processing of scientific articles containing chemical information.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Whale shark health relies on habitat, diet – and the right mix of microbes

A new study has revealed that the health of whale sharks depends on a balance of microbes in their skin, which is crucial for their well-being and survival. The research, published in Scientific Reports, used genomic sequencing technology to describe the types of microbes on the skin surface of 74 whale sharks from around the world.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2023

City-living may make male song sparrows more doting ‘super’ fathers

City-living male song sparrows exhibit increased parental care and reduced nest predation rates, contradicting the notion that urbanization leads to decreased parental investment. Urban males also begin feeding nestlings earlier in the day, indicating a more attentive parenting style.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2023

New test chamber created to find better ways to keep people cool

Researchers at Washington State University developed a 60 square-foot solar-powered test chamber to evaluate passive cooling systems. The chamber can simulate extreme conditions and is expected to reduce energy demand for mechanical air conditioning, which contributes to global warming.

SourceWashington State University·JournalEnergies·DateAug 22, 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.

Researchers decode new antibiotic

Researchers from the University of Bonn and international partners have discovered a new antibiotic called clovibactin that effectively attacks the cell wall of bacteria, including multi-resistant 'superbugs'. The compound has been shown to target bacterial cell wall components with high specificity, minimizing resistance development.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Self-driving synchrotron coherent x-ray scattering on complex fluids

A new AI-executable, end-to-end-automated XPCS workflow enables the study of spontaneous dynamics in complex fluids. The technique uses a spatially-coherent X-ray beam to probe dynamics at all length scales.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 22, 2023

Why childhood adversity impacts how a person’s behavior is judged

Researchers found that childhood adversity can reshape an individual's moral development, leading to a 'deformative experience' that pulls them away from their true nature. This asymmetric sensitivity to life history information affects judgments of praise and blame.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSocial Cognition·DateAug 22, 2023

Topology's role in decoding energy of amorphous systems

Researchers from Osaka University and others have used topological data analysis and machine learning to predict the properties of amorphous materials. The study employed a method combining persistent homology and machine learning to accurately predict the energies of disordered structures composed of carbon atoms at varying densities.

SourceOsaka University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 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.

NREL analysis quantifies impacts of setback ordinances on land available for renewable energy deployment

A new NREL study quantifies the impacts of setback ordinances on land availability for renewable energy deployment. Setback distances vary significantly across jurisdictions, affecting wind and solar resource utilization. The study suggests that local land use considerations play a crucial role in U.S. decarbonization.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

American College of Lifestyle Medicine announces core competencies for physicians specializing in intensive lifestyle medicine treatment

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) has established new core clinical competencies for lifestyle medicine intensivists, a level of certification that requires advanced skills and knowledge to practice intensive therapeutic lifestyle treatment. The competencies aim to guide the education and practice of physicians speciali...

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateAug 22, 2023

UT Health San Antonio, 7 collaborators garner $46 million from NIH to move discoveries into practice

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio will leverage the funding to translate scientific discoveries into therapeutic benefits, with a focus on reducing health disparities among Mexican Americans, active military personnel, and veterans. The research aims to push ideas along toward national application in the clin...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateAug 22, 2023

Listening to nanoscale earthquakes

A recent study presents an exciting new way to measure the crackling noise of atoms in crystals, enabling the investigation of novel materials for future electronics. The method allows researchers to study individual nanoscale features and identify their effects on material properties.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Immune cells linked to anxiety, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease

A study suggests that immune cells, particularly regulatory T cells, play a role in anxiety and depression, with reduced expression of the transcription factor Foxp3 associated with major depressive disorders. Depletion of these cells leads to increased anxiety-like behaviors in mice, highlighting their potential link to these conditions.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

Challenges ahead: navigating climate change and water management

Researchers found that climate change and changing water withdrawals have a combined impact on low river flows in Western and Central Europe. The study emphasizes the need for coordinated actions to decrease water withdrawals at regional, national, and international scales to tackle climate change effects.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

New Chinese Medical Journal review summarizes latest research on gamma delta T cells for tumor immunotherapy

Recent research on gamma delta T cells has made significant progress in understanding their role in antitumor immune response. Key findings include the identification of various hidden mechanisms and a strong association between tumor-infiltrating gamma delta T cells and patient survival.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 22, 2023

Cells with an ear for music release insulin

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a gene switch that uses sound waves to trigger insulin release in designer cells. The system works by embedding an ion channel protein from the bacterium E. coli into human cells, which opens in response to sound, causing insulin vesicles to fuse and release insulin.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Effect of a Mediterranean diet or mindfulness-based stress reduction during pregnancy on child neurodevelopment

A randomized clinical trial found that maternal lifestyle interventions during pregnancy based on a Mediterranean diet or mindfulness-based stress reduction significantly improved child neurodevelopmental outcomes. The study included 626 children and showed that these interventions can have long-lasting effects on a child's development...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 22, 2023

Exascale revolution: Supercomputers unleash a new era in biophysics discovery

The next generation of supercomputers is revolutionizing biophysics research, allowing researchers to simulate complex biological processes with extraordinary detail. This enables the creation of new proteins and design of novel molecular circuits, challenging longstanding biological assumptions.

SourceAuburn University Department of Physics·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 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.

Advances in quantum emitters mark progress toward a quantum internet

Researchers create more effective quantum emitters using pulsed ion beams, leading to better control over their optical properties. This breakthrough marks a step towards the development of a quantum internet and potential applications in sensing radiation.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateAug 22, 2023

Study adds to evidence that Parkinson’s starts in the gut

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that a misfolded protein triggers an immune attack in the gut, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms years before brain symptoms appear. The study suggests Parkinson's disease may be an autoimmune disorder and offers hope for early detection and prevention.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Digital real estate listings with more photos, descriptions earn higher sale prices

A recent study by Iowa State University found that listings with more experiential features, such as photos and descriptions, increase the sale price of properties. The researchers analyzed data from Zillow and found that experience attributes play a bigger role in sale prices for homes valued above or below the neighborhood average.

SourceIowa State University·JournalInformation Systems Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Origins of coronary arteries

A team of researchers compared the development of blood vessels in various animals, including mice, quails, and fish, to understand the origins of the human heart. They found that the structure of the human coronary arteries likely evolved from a common amniote ancestor, adapting to life on land.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

PRESS RELEASE: New research shows link between climate and immune health

A study across five Nordic cities finds diverse microbial exposure inversely linked to risk of asthma and atopy development. Protective 'farm-like' microbiota associated with lower asthma risk exhibited higher abundance of outdoor-associated bacterial taxa, which are less prevalent in homes with high precipitation.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeSurvey·DateAug 22, 2023

Automate or informate? Firms must invest in specific types of IT to improve working capital management

A new study from the University of Notre Dame reveals that investing in specific types of IT can help firms manage their working capital more efficiently. The research shows that IT infrastructure investments have a stronger impact on improving working capital-firm performance relationships than IT labor investments.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Operations Management·DateAug 22, 2023

Deciphering the molecular dynamics of complex proteins

Complex proteins adopt multiple structural states in solution, making it challenging to determine their three-dimensional structure. A new approach combining NMR spectroscopy and computer simulations reveals the dynamic properties of these proteins.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalStructure·DateAug 22, 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.

Donor motor neurons could restore muscle function in ALS

Scientists have successfully restored damaged nerve-to-muscle connections in a highly aggressive mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) using grafted replacement motor neurons and optical nerve stimulation. The treatment improved muscle contraction force by over 13-fold, suggesting its potential for treating ALS patients.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateAug 22, 2023

Plasmonic metafibers electro-optic modulators

New plasmonic metafiber EOMs integrate devices on optical fiber facets, eliminating coupling complexity and reducing losses. The modulation speed reaches up to 1000 MHz with a bias voltage of ±9 V.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 22, 2023

Call to protect whales and dolphins at Indian Ocean hotspot

A remote part of the Indian Ocean is home to 12 species of cetaceans, including orcas and sperm whales, prompting calls for protection. The Saya de Malha bank area should be designated as an Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) or Marine Protected Area (MPA).

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRegional Studies in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2023

High-fidelity mode scaling via topological-optimized on-chip metalens for compact photonic interconnection

The article introduces a new design method for on-chip metalens that enables efficient optical interconnection between devices with large scaling ratios. The optimized metalens achieves high transmission efficiency, lower stray light, and improved focusing efficiency compared to traditional waveguide tapers.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateAug 22, 2023

Hard-of-hearing music fans prefer a different sound

Researchers found that hard-of-hearing listeners prefer louder levels of lead vocals compared to normal listeners. They also tend to prefer higher frequencies and sparser mixes with fewer frequencies overall.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateAug 22, 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.

New study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying SLC29A3 disorders

Researchers have uncovered how aberrant nucleoside storage in lysosomes leads to constitutive activation of TLR7 and TLR8, driving histiocytosis in SLC29A3 disorders. The study suggests that TLR7/8 stress response is a key player in the condition's pathogenesis.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Firearm injuries and the pandemic: Lower opportunity neighborhoods are disproportionately affected

A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that children from lower opportunity neighborhoods experienced a significantly higher rate of firearm-related injury during the pandemic. The study found that unsafe storage of guns and single-parent households, combined with the stress of an unprecedented international emergency, exacerbated...

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 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.

How bacteria surf cargo through the cell

Researchers discovered that bacteria employ 'surfing' proteins called ParA/MinD ATPases to transport cargo across the cell. These systems interact with each other, enabling complex movements before cell division. The findings provide a basis for developing synthetic biology tools and understanding bacterial pathogens.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Grow-your-own households eat more fruit and vegetables and waste less

A new study from the University of Sheffield found that households growing their own food produce more than half of the vegetables and 20% of the fruit they consume annually, resulting in a 70% increase in recommended 5-a-day portions. Households also waste less, with only 0.12 portions thrown out daily.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPlants People Planet·DateAug 22, 2023

Poor report card for children’s wellbeing

A new study found that children's mental health and wellbeing gradually worsened over the past six years, with measures of life satisfaction, optimism, and emotional regulation declining consistently since 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on young Australians, particularly those in higher year levels and from lower...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 22, 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.

New study finds electoral uncertainty threatens international investment at companies with government ties

A new study in the Global Strategy Journal found that electoral uncertainty creates challenges for state-owned businesses and multinationals with indirect government ties. These companies are less likely to expand internationally during election years and instead adopt more flexible strategies or withdraw state support.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Glitter impairs growth of organisms with key roles in aquatic ecosystems, study shows

A study by researchers at the University of São Paulo found that glitter can hinder the growth of cyanobacteria, a key component of aquatic ecosystems. The toxic effects of glitter on microorganisms have not been well-studied, but the findings suggest that even low concentrations can negatively impact susceptible organisms.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateAug 22, 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.

Fabry–Perot-based phase demodulation of heterodyne light-induced thermoelastic spectroscopy

Researchers developed FPI-based phase demodulation for heterodyne LITES, improving SNR and detecting gas concentrations accurately. The method reduces interference and provides linear response, long-term stability, and independent signal peak-to-peak values.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateAug 22, 2023

A method for measuring the spongelike properties of human skin

Researchers developed a novel approach to quantify human skin's hydraulic permeability, discovering the dermis layer has the highest water absorption. The method uses atomic force microscopy and poroelastic theory to analyze skin samples, with potential applications for assessing skin moisturizing additives.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateAug 22, 2023

Police involvement may hamstring overdose outreach efforts

A new study found that law enforcement's role in post-overdose outreach programs may undermine their effectiveness. The research highlights the importance of law enforcement data and contact information to reach overdose survivors, but also notes challenges posed by police involvement due to lack of training and negative past experiences.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·TypeSurvey·DateAug 22, 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.

Mount Sinai study identifies most effective and safest outpatient labor induction methods, potentially reducing hospital stays and increasing hospital efficiency in use of resources

A Mount Sinai study identified the most effective and safest outpatient labor induction methods, using low-dose vaginal misoprostol, which reduces hospital stays and increases hospital efficiency. The study found that this approach does not increase cesarean delivery risk or complications.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 22, 2023

‘Coastal squeeze:’ Massive loss of U.S. coastline tidal flats over 31 years

A new study reveals massive urban expansions throughout the contiguous US, particularly on the Atlantic Coast, have led to significant tidal flat erosion. The research highlights the critical impact of human activities on tidal flat environments, providing important implications for coastal land use and planning.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Catheter ablation in very old patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation

A new study found that catheter ablation significantly lowers the incidence of cardiovascular events and death in very old patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. The researchers compared 208 patients who underwent AF ablation with those who received medical therapy only, finding a lower risk of both cardiovascular events and de...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

UIC leads national consortium educating next generation of quantum engineers

The ReACT-QISE Consortium aims to create a diverse workforce of quantum engineers, with UIC leading a $4.8 million three-year initiative funded by the DOE RENEW Initiative. The consortium will introduce students to key concepts in physics and computer science, and support the creation of new degree programs and research experiences.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateAug 22, 2023

Pacific coral reef shows historic increase in climate resistance

A new study reveals that Pacific coral reefs have increased their thermal tolerance to higher ocean temperatures, reducing the risk of bleaching. This natural adaptation could help reefs withstand climate change if global carbon emissions are cut down.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Many older adults want RSV vaccine, poll shows

A new University of Michigan poll suggests that nearly half of older adults do not know about the new RSV vaccines, while some groups show much less interest in getting the vaccine. The virus poses a significant risk to older adults with lung or immune system conditions, and those who live in nursing homes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateAug 22, 2023

Paired liver exchange developed by Boston College economists results in first four-way liver exchange

A new matching system enabled by Boston College economists facilitates the world's first four-way liver exchange and a cascade of additional matches. The system increases the number of transplants that can be matched among a larger group of participants, expanding capacity beyond traditional two-way exchanges.

SourceBoston College·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Optimizing tissue oxygenation in breast reduction surgery

Researchers developed a device to improve tissue oxygenation in breast reduction surgery, which increased oxygen levels and reduced wound breakdowns. The study showed the device was safe, easy-to-use, and well accepted by patients.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

What’s the risk of a mass shooting at your school?

Scientists estimate annual probability of a mass shooting in every US state and public places like schools, using statistical methods and computer simulations. The study finds that mass shootings are low-probability but high-consequence events.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Heat related illnesses dramatically on the rise among US Veterans

A statistically significant increase in heat-related illnesses was found among patients at US Department of Veteran Affairs facilities between 2002 and 2019. Specific groups, such as those with existing health conditions and certain ethnic groups, were more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

SourceElsevier·JournalThe Journal of Climate Change and Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Lithuanian invention at the forefront of solar technology breakthrough

A recent publication in Science reports on improvements in silicon-perovskite tandem cells, achieving a record-breaking 32.5% efficiency. The development of these high-efficiency solar cells was led by Lithuanian researchers from Kaunas University of Technology.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Rediscovering the joy of music collection

Research from Bar-Ilan University reveals a link between music collection and improved listening experience, suggesting that users can enhance their enjoyment by actively curating their playlists within streaming apps. The studies also found that the act of collecting music is pleasant and can elevate listening levels.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPersonal and Ubiquitous Computing·DateAug 22, 2023

Timing is key

Researchers have deciphered a biochemical mechanism explaining how cortisone preparations mediate inflammation-resolving effects in human immune cells. Cortisone influences enzymes involved in the formation of inflammation-resolving messenger substances, inducing resolvins early but impairing function later.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023