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Science News Archive August 2023 - Page 23


Page 23 of 38

Study explains how part of the nucleolus evolved

Researchers at MIT have discovered a single scaffolding protein, TCOF1, responsible for forming a biomolecular condensate within the nucleolus. The findings suggest that this condensate played a crucial role in the evolutionary shift from a bipartite to a tripartite nucleolus 300 million years ago.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 15, 2023

Controlling the source of electromagnetic waves enables control of the period of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS)

Controlling the source of electromagnetic waves enables control of the period of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), increasing fabrication speed and accuracy. Researchers discovered that varying the substrate material affects the LIPSS period, allowing for more precise manipulation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·DateAug 15, 2023

Good cardiorespiratory fitness associated with up to 40% lower risk of 9 cancers

A large long-term study found that good cardiorespiratory fitness in young men is associated with a significantly lower risk of developing nine specific cancers, including a 40% reduced risk of liver cancer. Higher fitness was also linked to lower risks of rectal, pancreatic, and bowel cancers.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 15, 2023

New online course equips personal care assistants with essential knowledge for supporting individuals with spinal cord injury

The new online course, “Understanding Spinal Cord Injury: A Course for Personal Care Assistants,” enhances training for PCAs to provide quality assistance services for individuals with spinal cord injury. The four-module course covers topics such as building relationships, managing blood pressure, and transferring clients safely.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateAug 15, 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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

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

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
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.

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

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
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 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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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