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Science News Archive August 2023 - Page 10


Page 10 of 38

Light regulates structural conversion of chiral molecules

Researchers at the University of Münster develop a novel concept to regulate reactivity and selectivity in chemical reactions using light as an external energy source. The aluminum complex catalyst enables the selective conversion of chiral molecules into a single form, improving spatial control in organic chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature·DateAug 24, 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.

Carbon offsets from forest conservation projects have been overestimated

A new analysis reveals that emission reductions from REDD+ programs have been overestimated, with most projects failing to significantly reduce deforestation. The study found that only a subset of projects have made substantial contributions to climate change mitigation, and many more credits are available than their actual value.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2023

How large are corporate carbon damages?

A new US Securities and Exchange Commission proposal could unveil substantial corporate carbon damages due to varying industrial compositions across countries. The top four industries account for 89% of global damages, with energy-intensive sectors contributing the most.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 24, 2023

A global observatory to monitor Earth's biodiversity

A new global biodiversity observing system (GBIOS) is proposed to combine technology, data, and knowledge from around the world to monitor biodiversity change and target conservation action. The system can provide the information needed at the pace required to support countries in achieving their biodiversity goals.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 24, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

BU researchers describe rebuilding, regenerating lung cells

Researchers from the Center for Regenerative Medicine at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered a novel approach for engrafting engineered cells into injured lung tissue. They successfully reconstituted the stem cell compartment of injured airways and alveoli using cells engineered from pluripotent stem cells, resulting i...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

AI helps robots manipulate objects with their whole bodies

Researchers at MIT developed a method to simplify the process of whole-body manipulation for robots, enabling them to reason efficiently about moving objects. The technique uses AI and smoothing to reduce the number of decisions required, making it possible for robots to adapt quickly in complex environments.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateAug 24, 2023

Math enables blending hydrogen in natural gas pipelines

A new study uses nonlinear partial differential equations to model the transportation of hydrogen-heterogeneous mixtures through pipeline systems, ensuring predictable operations. The research proposes injecting hydrogen gradually into existing natural gas pipelines to maximize their utility in reducing carbon-emitting fossil fuels.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalPRX Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 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.

New study finds ways to suppress lithium plating in automotive batteries for faster charging electric vehicles

A new study led by Dr. Xuekun Lu has found a way to prevent lithium plating in electric vehicle batteries, which could lead to faster charging times and improve the battery's energy density. The research also reveals that refining the microstructure of the graphite electrode can minimize the risk of lithium plating.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2023

Women more severely affected by ME/CFS, study shows

The DecodeME study reveals that women are more severely affected by ME/CFS, experiencing more symptoms and co-occurring conditions than men. The study confirms a sex bias among ME/CFS patients, with women making up 83.5% of respondents.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNIHR Open Research·TypeSurvey·DateAug 24, 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.

FDA approving drugs after fewer trials, providing less information to public, OSU studies find

A recent study found that the FDA approved 65% of novel drugs in 2022 based on a single clinical trial, while only half of the available studies were classified as randomized clinical trials. This lack of transparency raises concerns about the completeness of the approval process and patient access to accurate information.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHealth Affairs Scholar·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 24, 2023

Carbon-encapsulated magnetite nanodonut suggested for synergistic cancer therapy

Researchers developed a photoresponsive carbon-encapsulated magnetite nanodonut nanoenzyme with dual catalytic activity for synergistic cancer therapy. The nanoenzyme showed improved stability, biocompatibility, and therapeutic ability due to its quasi-two-dimensional structure.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateAug 24, 2023

New pocket-sized device for clinicians could spot infected wounds faster

A new pocket-sized device uses heat signatures and bacterial fluorescence to identify infected wounds, providing a more accurate diagnosis than traditional methods. The device achieved an overall accuracy of 74% in identifying different categories of wounds, with 100% accuracy in distinguishing between infected and non-infected wounds.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 24, 2023

The swansong of African hydropower?

New study finds that up to 67% of future hydropower plants in Africa may not be worth the investment due to economic competition with solar and wind power. However, some new hydropower plants could still provide cheap power in the short-term and help integrate solar and wind energy.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 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.

Pioneering treatment highly effective for rare kidney disease

A pioneering drug for a rare kidney disease, eculizumab, has been found to prevent 86% of patients from going into kidney failure. This breakthrough treatment is highly effective and improves patient outcomes without the need for dialysis or transplant.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalBlood·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 24, 2023

New gene-editing technique offers path to precision therapies

A new gene-editing technique combines peptide nucleic acids and prokaryotic Argonautes to introduce targeted breaks in the genome. The approach, called PNP editing, offers advantages over CRISPR-based methods, including improved specificity and targeting.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateAug 24, 2023

High drug price associated with decreased treatment retention for patients with chronic liver disease

A study by researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School found that high costs for hepatic encephalopathy treatment are associated with decreased treatment retention among patients. Patients who are younger and have metastatic cancer or depression are more likely to skip their medication.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalHepatology Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 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.

The ‘treadmill conveyor belt’ ensuring proper cell division

Researchers at the Centre for Genomic Regulation have discovered how proteins work together to regulate treadmilling, a critical mechanism in cell division. The discovery highlights the importance of protein KIF2A and its role in maintaining tension between chromosomes during cell division.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateAug 24, 2023

Gene therapy targeting the brain vasculature

Researchers have engineered an AAV vector to target brain vascular pericytes and smooth muscle cells, potentially treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's. This breakthrough could revolutionize gene therapy by delivering genes directly to the brain's blood vessels.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

The pressure is real for mums managing their children’s digital use

A new study by the University of South Australia finds that mothers are experiencing a relentless mental load linked to their children's digital use, impacting their physical and mental health. This 'digital care work' requires mothers to monitor and manage their kids' media use, adding an extra layer of complexity to modern mothering.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNew Media & Society·DateAug 24, 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.

Stormwater biofiltration increases coho salmon hatchling survival

A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that biofiltration increased coho salmon hatchling survival by up to 87%, reducing mortality from stormwater runoff exposure. The method effectively removes contaminants, but implementation faces hurdles due to land requirements.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateAug 24, 2023

Community-based services could reduce the risk of frailty in older adults with low care needs

Research finds that community-based adult day services can reduce the risk of frailty among older adults by 40%, while home-based personal assistance services have no significant effect. This study suggests that active community engagement may help maintain independence and prevent frailty in older adults.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2023

Fungi-eating plants and flies team up for reproduction

Researchers have discovered a novel nursery pollination system in which fungi-eating orchids and fruit flies engage in mutualistic symbiosis. The study found that the orchids offer their flowers to the flies in exchange for pollination, providing a breeding ground for the flies' larvae.

SourceKobe University·JournalEcology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 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 technology boosts public health programs

A study published in Pediatrics found that texting can increase participation in public health programs, with 99% of staff having a valid cell phone number and fewer than 4% opting out. The SCALE-UP Counts program showed that texting can reach staff in K-12 schools to provide health screening messages.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 24, 2023

Poor lifestyle of over 60s linked to heightened risk of nursing home care

A large population study found that unhealthy lifestyles between ages of 60 and 64 are associated with a doubling in the risk of nursing home admission. Physical inactivity, smoking, poor diet, and sleep disorders were linked to an increased risk of care, particularly among 60-64 year olds.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 2023

Overlooked part of brain could play critical role in addiction recovery

A neglected brain region has been identified as a key player in addiction recovery. The supplementary motor cortex was found to be hyperexcitable in individuals with cocaine use disorders, even after withdrawal periods of 45 days. This discovery may lead to new treatment approaches using transcranial magnetic stimulation.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 24, 2023

How pre-eclampsia accelerates aging in women

Research led by Vesna D. Garovic reveals that pre-eclampsia causes accelerated aging in women, leading to increased risks of cardiovascular and kidney disease. Women with a history of pre-eclampsia are more likely to develop chronic conditions at a younger age.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalEBioMedicine·DateAug 24, 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.

The right combo: Getting the most health benefits from fruit smoothies

A study by University of California - Davis researchers found that blending certain ingredients in smoothies can influence nutritional absorption. Adding a banana to a blueberry smoothie decreased the level of flavanols in the body, with participants having 84% lower levels compared to those who consumed a flavanol capsule.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFood & Function·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 24, 2023

Lignocellulose bio-refinery developed for value-added chemical overproduction in yeast

A team of researchers from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics has developed a microbial platform for efficient lignocellulose bio-refinery in yeast. The system can produce valuable chemicals like fatty acids and 3-hydroxypropionic acid, overcoming limitations in xylose assimilation and glucose repression.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 24, 2023

NTU Singapore scientists develop a sustainable method to produce lactic acid, indispensable in industrial food production, using waste jackfruit seeds

Scientists at Nanyang Technological University have developed a sustainable method to produce lactic acid using discarded jackfruit seeds. The new process is cheaper and more efficient, reducing waste and environmental impact while addressing rising production costs.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 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.

Getting protein factories to run – How deubiquitinating enzymes moonlight as Fubi proteases

Researchers from Max Planck Institute identified mechanisms of deubiquitinating enzymes acting as Fubi proteases, regulating ribosomal protein maturation and modulating immune responses. This discovery expands understanding of post-translational modification systems and their roles in cellular processes.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

Study reveals correlation between Zener relaxation and magnetostriction in FeGa single crystals

Researchers discovered a correlation between Zener relaxation and magnetostriction in FeGa single crystals, revealing that stress-induced reorientation of defects can give rise to an internal friction peak. The study also found a positive correlation between Zener relaxation strength and the magnetostriction coefficient, demonstrating ...

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalActa Materialia·DateAug 24, 2023

New study examines historical drought and flooding on the Amazon River

Researchers analyzed tree-ring data and historical records to reconstruct rainfall totals in the eastern Amazon. They found that recent extreme floods may not have exceeded natural hydroclimatic variability, but could still pose devastating consequences for a growing population living in high-risk areas.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Climate·TypeObservational study·DateAug 24, 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.

Preterm babies given certain fatty acids have better vision

A study at the University of Gothenburg found that preterm babies given a supplement with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids had improved visual function by age 2.5. The supplement also seemed to improve the brain's ability to interpret visual impressions.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 24, 2023

Metabolite in urine predicts diabetic kidney failure 5-10 years early; oral therapeutic drug shows promise in mice

Researchers found that urine levels of adenine are predictive and causative biomarkers of looming progressive kidney failure in patients with diabetes. An oral therapeutic drug showed promise in mice by reducing kidney adenine levels and protecting against diabetic kidney disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

Study uncovers genetic risk factors for heart failure

A global team of scientists has identified 39 genetic mutations associated with heart failure and pinpointed seven druggable proteins that may prevent its onset. The findings could help physicians identify and treat at-risk patients before heart failure occurs.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 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.

Monell Center helps discover epigenetic mechanism that causes bitter taste distortion

Researchers found that inducing inflammation triggers an epigenetic response in Tas2r genes, leading to a decrease in sweet taste preference and potentially affecting appetite and medication tolerance. This study has significant clinical implications for understanding behavioral aspects of illness and developing effective bitter blockers.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023

Sweet corn yield at the mercy of the environment, except for one key factor

A new study by the University of Illinois and USDA-Agricultural Research Service has identified the key factors influencing sweet corn yield. The analysis found that seed source is a significant variable, with processors having a choice over which hybrids to use, and high nighttime temperatures also impact yield.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPrecision Agriculture·DateAug 24, 2023

Severe COVID-19 survivors may show increased vascular risk associated with stress

Researchers found that severe COVID-19 survivors exhibit elevated muscle sympathetic nerve activity in response to mental stress, which accelerates heartbeat and increases blood pressure. This exaggerated reaction, combined with impaired vasodilation, poses a significant risk for cardiovascular complications.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalAJP Regulatory Integrative and Comparative Physiology·DateAug 24, 2023

Novel algorithm proposed for selecting variables efficiently

A novel algorithm called MWO-BOSS was proposed to efficiently select variables in high-dimensional spectral data. The algorithm combines six weight vectors and uses a threshold search strategy to improve model predictive ability.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalInfrared Physics·DateAug 24, 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.

Training immune cells to remove ‘trash’ helps resolve lung inflammation

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered that trained immune cells can remove cellular debris and reduce inflammation in the lungs. This 'memory' or training allows these cells to respond better to subsequent infections, potentially leading to a cell therapy to prevent acute lung injury.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 24, 2023

Certain gut conditions may be early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease

Research suggests that certain gut problems, such as gastroparesis, dysphagia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may precede the development of Parkinson's disease. A nationwide medical record network study found a significant association between these conditions and an increased risk of Parkinson's diagnosis.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2023