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Science News for December 21, 2023


Advanced computational tool for understanding quantum materials

Researchers developed a new computational tool, WEST-TDDFT, to study the behavior of atoms in quantum materials when absorbing and emitting light. The tool enables scientists to analyze larger systems, leading to potential breakthroughs in quantum technologies and material engineering.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateDec 21, 2023

The future of canine stem cell therapy: unprecedented, painless, and feeder-free

Scientists at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a non-invasive, pain-free method to reprogram canine stem cells from urine samples, creating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) without feeder cells. This breakthrough aims to advance veterinary regenerative treatment and genetic disease research.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel catalyst system for CO2 conversion

A team of scientists from Ruhr-University Bochum and the Fraunhofer Institute has developed a novel catalyst system for converting carbon dioxide into raw materials. The system, which uses homogeneous electrocatalysts, can efficiently convert CO2 under industrial conditions and maintains stability over 100 hours without decay.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateDec 21, 2023

KIMM develops real-time multimodal tactile detection system applicable to robots and wearable devices

Researchers at KIMM develop a real-time and multimodal tactile perception system capable of detecting various types of tactile stimuli in real-time. The system consists of four three-dimensionally stacked tactile sensors and has successfully distinguished between different surface textures and complex motion.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalSoft Robotics·DateDec 21, 2023

Sniffing women’s tears reduces aggressive behavior in men

New research reveals that exposing men to women's emotional tears can lower aggression and reduce revenge-seeking behavior. The study found that sniffing tears leads to reduced brain activity related to aggression, resulting in less aggressive behavior.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

Enhancing coastal cities' flood resilience through smart city technologies

Researchers propose integrating smart-city technologies to boost flood resilience in coastal cities. They argue that emerging technologies like IoT, 5G, and big data can enable real-time data collection, analysis, and decision-making, leading to more responsive and resilient urban environments.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 21, 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.

New material allows for better hydrogen-based batteries and fuel cells

Researchers have developed a solid electrolyte that allows for efficient hydride ion conduction at room temperature, enabling the creation of safer, more efficient hydrogen-based batteries and fuel cells. This breakthrough provides material design guidelines for the development of next-generation energy storage solutions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 21, 2023

Researchers map how measles virus spreads in human brain

Mayo Clinic researchers used genetic sequencing to study the measles virus's spread in a human brain. The study found that the virus acquired distinct mutations that drove its spread from the frontal cortex outward. This knowledge may help develop effective antiviral drugs to combat SSPE, a rare and lethal brain disease caused by measles.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 21, 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.

Doxycycline prophylaxis use low and did not prevent STIs among cisgender women

A recent study found that doxycycline prophylaxis did not prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among cisgender women, despite being prescribed to 18% of participants. The study also revealed high rates of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea, which may be due to low adherence and limited treatment options.

SourceHennepin Healthcare Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 2023

Role of enzyme SMYD3 clarified in prostate cancer progression

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the enzyme SMYD3's involvement in prostate cancer's progression to a more aggressive stage. The study found that adding methyl groups to the MAP kinase protein is likely SMYD3's role in driving metastasis, and compounds that can inactivate SMYD3 are already available

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Insects already had a variety of defense strategies in the Cretaceous

Researchers have discovered that insect larvae already used various anti-predator strategies, such as spines, hairs, and camouflage, in the Cretaceous period. These findings provide insights into the evolution of defense mechanisms in insects and shed light on the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournaliScience·DateDec 21, 2023

Pancake stack of films on a balloon most accurate gamma-ray telescope

Kobe University researchers have developed a pancake stack of films on a balloon that takes the world's most accurate picture of a neutron star's gamma ray beam. The setup uses a novel, automated data capture and analysis process to track the trajectory of particles produced by gamma rays, achieving an accuracy of 1/10,000 millimeters.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Delivering the bad news right: report says Parkinson’s disease diagnoses must include a message of hope

A new report by UCLA neurologist Dr. Indu Subramanian recommends that doctors delivering Parkinson's diagnoses use correct terminology and provide guidance on treatment options, lifestyle choices, and coping strategies to give patients hope and agency.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalParkinsonism & Related Disorders·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 21, 2023

A KAIST team develops selective transfer printing technology for MicroLEDs​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a micro-vacuum assisted selective transfer printing (µVAST) technology to improve the transfer of microLED chips. The technology uses laser-induced etching to create micro-hole arrays on glass substrates, allowing for precise alignment and higher adhesion switchability.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2023

New study reveals perfluoroalkyl acids accelerate DNA degradation, highlighting potential ecological risks

A new study reveals that perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) significantly expedite the enzymatic degradation of DNA, even at low concentrations. The findings have critical implications for understanding the ecological risks posed by PFAAs and highlight the urgent need for more comprehensive environmental monitoring.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateDec 21, 2023

Moisture-resistant hairstyling agent

Researchers at NIMS and L'Oréal K.K. create a new hairstyling agent that resists humidity, using hydrogen bonding between PVA and cellulose microcrystals to maintain hair shape in high humidity conditions.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Henan Agricultural University researchers review on jujube witches’ broom, fruit tree disease associated with phytoplasma

Jujube witches' broom disease is a fruit tree disease caused by phytoplasma, leading to altered plant development and severe yield loss. The review highlights the importance of understanding the interaction between phytoplasma effectors and plant target proteins to develop effective prevention and cure strategies.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFruit Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Kessler Foundation study of cognitive fatigue across different tasks and populations provides new insights

Researchers investigated cognitive fatigue across multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and controls using two tasks, finding that fatigue was consistent across participants regardless of task. Cognitive fatigue correlated with longer response times and activation in the caudate nucleus and thalamus.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Artery calcification more common in night owls

A new study from the University of Gothenburg reveals that night owls are more likely to develop artery calcification than early risers. The research, which examined data from over 771 middle-aged participants, suggests that circadian rhythms play a crucial role in cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalSleep Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

Astronomers detect seismic ripples in ancient galactic disk

Researchers used ALMA to study the motion of gas in ancient spiral galaxy BRI 1335-0417, detecting seismic waves that reveal the galaxy's dynamic growth. The findings suggest that gas was streaming into the galaxy or colliding with smaller galaxies, fueling star formation at a rate hundreds of times faster than modern galaxies.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Growing pains? SFU research tracks 100 years of salmon adaptation to climate change

A new Simon Fraser University-led study tracks 100 years of salmon growth and finds that juvenile salmon are growing larger due to climate change. The study suggests maintaining freshwater habitats can help salmon adapt to warming temperatures, with relatively deep lakes becoming more important.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

First high mountain settlers at the start of the Neolithic already engaged in other livestock activities apart from transhumance

Researchers analyzed animal remains and isotopes to understand livestock practices in high mountain regions during the Early Neolithic. The study found that flocks were small and used for meat and milk production, with pigs gaining economic importance during this period.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Archaeology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

JCEHP supplement aims to disrupt assumptions about continuing professional development

A new supplement in JCEHP examines conceptual shifts in continuing professional development, proposing a person-focused, practice-informed approach that considers context, subjectification, and socio-material dimensions. This approach aims to generate meaningful advancements and transform the health professional-as-a-person.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions·DateDec 21, 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.

Structures of Parkinson’s disease-linked proteins offer a framework for understanding how they work together

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have determined the complex structure of Parkinson’s disease-related proteins LRRK2 and Rab29, revealing how they work synergistically to cause the disease. The structures provide an atomic-scale map to trace how different mutations affect function within this complex, with implicatio...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2023

Can cryptocurrencies be legal tender? A case study from El Salvador

The study found that digital payments and Bitcoin use declined after its introduction as legal tender, with the wealthy and financially literate being the primary users. The findings suggest that policies incentivizing cryptocurrency adoption may not be effective unless populations trust digital currencies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Researchers discover key to epithelial cell growth

Australian researchers at Monash University have discovered a new way that epithelial cells form tissues of the right size and shape by adhering to each other through basal spot junctions. This finding is crucial for understanding human diseases, including cancers, where Hippo signalling plays a key role.

SourceMonash University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Wireless tracking system could help improve the XR experience

A new wireless tracking system, developed by UC San Diego engineers, enables accurate localization of objects in dynamic environments. The system overcomes camera-based limitations and provides centimeter-level accuracy, opening up new possibilities for enhanced XR experiences.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateDec 21, 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.

Better prosthetics: $3M to develop more natural robotic leg control

A University of Michigan project aims to create a smoother experience for robotic prosthetic leg users, with renewed support from the National Institutes of Health. The team has developed a continuous modeling framework that mimics biomechanical impedance, enabling the leg to move seamlessly between different activities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 21, 2023

New tool unifies single-cell data

A new tool, CellHint, has been developed to unify different single-cell data, creating harmonized datasets. Researchers applied CellHint to reveal underexplored connections between healthy and diseased lung cell states and identified potential interests for future research in adult human hippocampus.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·DateDec 21, 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.

Tsinghua launches inaugural issue of Energy Materials and Devices

The first issue of Energy Materials and Devices features articles on lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and electrocatalysis. The journal aims to bridge the gap between high-level research and industrial technologies, promoting the industrialization of scientific research results.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalEnergy Materials and Devices·DateDec 21, 2023

One of the keys to healthy sleep and blood sugar has been found

Researchers from Osaka University have discovered a link between the rare D-form of the amino acid alanine and the circadian clock's influence on glucose metabolism in the kidney. The study found that D-alanine regulates gluconeogenesis, a process that creates new glucose to maintain energy levels, and is mediated by the protein Cry2.

SourceOsaka University·JournalKidney360·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Pioneering diamond manufacturing: Enhancing efficiency and precision with energy beam-based direct and assisted polishing techniques

Energy beam-based direct and assisted polishing technologies for diamonds improve surface quality and material removal rates, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. Researchers analyzed four latest polishing techniques, including laser polishing, ion beam polishing, plasma-assisted polishing, and laser-assisted polishing.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 21, 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.

Urology treatment studies show increased reporting of harmful effects

Recent urology treatment studies have improved the reporting of harms in randomized trials, addressing adverse events, side effects, and complications. The analysis found a significant increase in reporting harms criteria from 2012 to 2020, with more than three-fourths of items addressed by 2020.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateDec 21, 2023

Location, location, location: The hidden power of intracellular neighborhoods

Researchers found a code directing mRNAs to specific neighborhoods for translation, revealing the cytoplasm's compartmentalization. This discovery sheds light on fundamental cellular biology and holds promise for increasing or altering protein production in mRNA vaccines and therapies.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Where you live matters: A first-of-its-kind study illustrates how racism is interrelated with poor health

Researchers found strong associations between neighborhood prevalence of chronic conditions like CKD, diabetes, and hypertension and structural racism indicators. The study used data from Durham County, North Carolina, to explore the interplay between racism and poor health outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 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.

Bugs that help bugs: How environmental microbes boost fruit fly reproduction

Researchers from Osaka University and University of Hawaii found that environmental microorganisms boost fruit fly reproduction by modifying hormone levels and increasing the production of germline stem cells. This discovery could lead to new avenues for improving reproductive health and fertility treatments.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Kessler Foundation study reveals spatial neglect occurs after brain injury as well as stroke

A Kessler Foundation study found that spatial neglect affects a substantial percentage of people with traumatic brain injury, with an incidence rate of 38% post-TBI. The study also revealed that right brain damage is more likely to result in spatial neglect, highlighting the need for timely treatment and screening guidelines.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalAnnals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

The two (country) sides of forests

University of Bonn researchers analyzed satellite data to find that national policies have a significant impact on forest coverage. Strict policies and their effective implementation are critical to achieving positive changes in tree populations along country borders.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateDec 21, 2023

The key mechanism to cell growth has been elucidated

Cysteine is sensed by a protein called Pib2 and binds with it to activate TORC1, promoting cell proliferation. The study found that all 20 amino acids differently affect TORC1 using two pathways: Pib2 and Gtr.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

Sleep deprivation makes us less happy, more anxious

A comprehensive review of 50+ years of research on sleep deprivation and mood found that disrupted sleep leads to fewer positive emotions and increased anxiety symptoms. The study's findings suggest that even short periods of sleep loss can negatively impact emotional functioning.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2023

Inside the matrix: Nanoscale patterns revealed within model research organism

Scientists have deciphered the assemblage of apical extracellular matrices in roundworms at the nanoscale using advanced microscopy. Defects in struts result in unnatural layer swelling, and the researchers found that collagens play a crucial role in maintaining matrix structure.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2023

Trauma survivor support reduces return trips to hospital

A new study found that trauma survivors who received comprehensive mental health support after discharge had significantly lower hospital readmission rates. Researchers analyzed data from 171 patients and found that those receiving standard care had nearly twice as many readmissions as those with the intervention.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateDec 21, 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 insights revealed on tissue-dependent roles of JAK signaling in inflammation

Researchers have gained a deeper understanding of the nuanced roles of JAK inhibitors in inflammation across various cell types and tissues. The study reveals that activating JAK1 signaling has tissue-specific effects, including an unexpected immunoregulatory role in lung sensory neurons, which suppresses lung inflammation.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateDec 21, 2023

Brain cell discovery sparks hope for fertility treatments

Researchers found that kisspeptin neurons with dynorphin receptors are crucial for hormone secretion and ovulation. The study provides new insights into the central mechanism underlying reproduction and may lead to treatment of ovarian disorders.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 21, 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.

Organic compounds in asteroids formed in colder regions of space: study

Researchers from Curtin University analyze polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons extracted from Ryugu and Murchison meteorites, revealing that certain PAHs likely formed in the cold areas of space between stars. This discovery offers valuable insights into the history and chemistry of celestial bodies like asteroids and meteorites.

SourceCurtin University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

Are diamonds GaN’s best friend? Revolutionizing transistor technology

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University fabricated GaN transistors using diamond substrates, achieving more than twice the heat dissipation of SiC-based transistors. This novel technology has the potential to revolutionize power and radio frequency electronics with improved thermal management capabilities.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 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.

How technology and economics can help save endangered species

Researchers at Ohio State University explore how technology and economics can be used to protect endangered species. By leveraging tools like camera traps and smartphone apps, scientists can monitor populations more efficiently. Additionally, economists can develop policies that protect species before they become threatened, reducing t...

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 21, 2023

New type of antibody shows promise against multiple forms of flu virus

Researchers have identified a novel class of antibodies capable of neutralizing both certain H3 and H1 strains of the flu virus, with potential applications in developing more broadly protective flu vaccines. The findings could also contribute to reducing reliance on chicken egg-based manufacturing methods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2023

An integrated approach to discovering stable and low cost electrocatalysts

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed an integrated approach to discovering stable and low-cost electrocatalysts, using data mining to accelerate the transition to renewable energy. The study identified 68 promising metal oxide electrocatalysts under specific conditions, including Sb2WO6 for oxygen reduction.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 21, 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.