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Science News for January 13, 2023


Researchers create smaller, cheaper flow batteries for clean energy

A new compact flow battery cell configuration reduces size and cost by 75%, increasing volumetric power density and enabling more efficient energy storage. The technology could revolutionize residential and commercial energy systems, with potential applications in electrolysis and fuel cells.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

When migrating birds go astray, disturbances in magnetic field may be partly to blame

Researchers found a strong correlation between birds captured outside their expected range and geomagnetic disturbances. The study suggests that birds rely on magnetoreceptors for navigation, which can be affected by solar activity and other factors. This knowledge can help scientists understand threats to birds and the ways they adapt.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 13, 2023

Support from others in stressful times can ease impact of genetic depression risk, study suggests

A recent study found that social support has a significant impact on depression risk, particularly in individuals with high genetic risk scores. The research used data from two groups: first-year doctors and recently widowed older adults, showing that those who gained social support during stressful times had lower depressive symptoms.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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

A strong ethnic identity can buffer or bolster the effects of online sexual racism in Black men

A recent study found that strong ethnic identity can buffer feelings of depression and low self-worth when Black men experience sexual objectification by white men online. Conversely, a strong commitment to ethnicity intensified feelings of low self-worth when rejected by those of their own race.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJan 13, 2023

AI discovers new nanostructures

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have successfully discovered new materials using artificial intelligence and self-assembly. The AI-driven technique led to the discovery of three new nanostructures, expanding the scope of self-assembly's applications in microelectronics and catalysis.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 13, 2023

Scientists achieved phonon and photon lasing in optomechanical cavities

Researchers successfully fabricated one-dimensional optomechanical crystals to enable simultaneous phonon and photon lasing, narrowing the linewidth by four orders of magnitude. The findings pave the way for silicon-based photonic and phononic lasers to meet new technologies' demands.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFundamental Research·DateJan 13, 2023

Breathing supercapacitor

Researchers have created a supercapacitor that combines high power and energy density using a 'breathing' electrode with chlorine gas. The new device achieves rapid charge separation and mass transfer, increasing its energy storage capacity.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Politics seep into daily life, negatively affecting mental health

Research published by the American Psychological Association finds that following daily political news can negatively impact people's mental health and well-being. Disengaging from politics also comes with a cost, as it reduces motivation to take action on political causes.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJan 13, 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.

A precision arm for miniature robots

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a device that uses ultrasound to automate laboratory analysis tasks. The device combines microfluidics and robotics, allowing for the mixing, pumping, and trapping of tiny amounts of liquid. This innovation enables the automation of previously custom-designed systems.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 13, 2023

How your mood affects the way you process language

A study by the University of Arizona found that when participants were in a negative mood, they were more careful and analytical, scrutinizing what was stated in a text. In contrast, a happy mood led to a less analytical state, with participants relying on default world knowledge.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalFrontiers in Communication·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 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.

Breakthrough in fighting Legionnaires’ disease

A new study found Legionella bacteria in 41% of samples - with Flinders University researchers making a key connection between the pathogen's co-existence with a 'host' microorganism in all samples tested. The study highlights the need for improved management of water distribution systems to protect vulnerable populations.

SourceFlinders University·JournalWater Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2023

Synthetic genes for flu test

A new method for rapid and specific antibody detection has been introduced, using programmable gene circuits, cell-free transcription, and electrochemical detection. The system can detect antibodies in complex samples such as blood serum and is adaptable for a wide variety of other antibodies.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Preterm birth linked to chemicals found in the vagina

A new study links spontaneous preterm birth to chemicals in vaginal products, revealing a potential source of the condition. Researchers discovered that metabolites from cosmetics and hygiene products were associated with preterm births, offering hope for early diagnostics.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Scientists identify how a biological pathway leads stem cells to die or regenerate

Researchers have discovered a biological pathway that governs the life and death of stem cells, which may lead to new treatments for cancer and regenerative therapies. By manipulating cell signaling, scientists can normalize the creation of new cells, preventing excessive growth and ensuring proper tissue regeneration.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genes & Cancer | Slit2 signaling stimulates Ewing sarcoma growth

Researchers found that EWS::FLI1 induces Slit2 expression, which activates Robo receptors and enhances Ewing sarcoma growth. Silencing Slit2 strongly inhibited Ewing sarcoma cell growth, providing an opportunity for targeted therapy.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalGenes & Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2023

Swarm intelligence caused by physical mechanisms

Researchers at Leipzig University developed an experimental model of microswimmers that exhibit properties of natural swarm intelligence. The swimmers' internal states and navigation rules can be controlled, allowing for the observation of complex collective behaviors.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Adopting pediatric readiness standards improves survival in hospital emergency departments

A study found that hospitals with high levels of pediatric care readiness have significantly lower child mortality rates compared to those with low readiness. Adopting national pediatric care readiness standards as laid out by the National Pediatric Readiness Project may prevent over 1,400 child deaths.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 13, 2023

Evolution of uniquely human DNA was a balancing act, study concludes

Researchers found that many changes to human DNA had opposing effects, with some variants making enhancers stronger while others made them weaker. This discovery has implications for understanding human evolution and the potential link between human DNA variations and psychiatric diseases.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNeuron·DateJan 13, 2023

Study identifies potential new approach for treating lupus

A study published in Science Immunology has discovered a potential new approach for treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by targeting iron metabolism in immune system cells. Blocking the iron uptake receptor reduced disease pathology and promoted anti-inflammatory regulatory T cell activity in a mouse model of SLE.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 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.

Feathered robotic wing paves way for flapping drones

Researchers created a robotic wing that can flap more efficiently than previous robots, mimicking the upstroke of birds. This study could lead to more efficient flapping drones for various applications, including deliveries.

SourceLund University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateJan 13, 2023

The world in grains of interstellar dust

Researchers at Hokkaido University have discovered a new pathway to forming presolar grains, which could help scientists better understand the interstellar environment and develop more efficient nanoparticles. The study suggests that these grains formed through a non-classical nucleation pathway, involving three distinct steps.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Type 1 diabetes: Maintaining the enzyme ACE2 in the gut prevents diabetic blindness

A novel treatment involving ACE2-producing probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei may prevent or reverse diabetic retinopathy in Type 1 diabetes patients. The study found that human subjects with retinopathy had a dysregulated systemic RAS and profound gut permeability defects, which were reversed by the probiotic treatment.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 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.

Largest decentralized study of its kind shows high levels of engagement with Huma’s study app

A new study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that participants using Huma's clinical trial platform had an average engagement rate of 34.5 weeks and a high retention rate, with only 2.5% withdrawing from the study. The study highlights the potential of digital health solutions for population-based research.

SourceHuma Ltd·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2023

Financial strain and material deprivation linked to increased child behavioural difficulties More nuanced measures of economic hardship required to help address cost-of-living crisis and its effects on children

A new study by researchers at Trinity College Dublin found that financial strain and material deprivation are associated with higher child behavioral difficulties. The study suggests that more nuanced measures of economic hardship are required to accurately understand the effects of economic hardship on households and their children.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·TypeCase study·DateJan 13, 2023

Madagascar mouse lemur retroviruses are diverse and surprisingly similar to ones found in polar bears or domestic sheep

The study reveals diverse retroviruses in mouse lemurs, closely related to viruses in polar bears and domestic sheep, suggesting ancient infections. The discovery of endogenous retroviruses in these species provides new insights into the complex history of retroviral transmission among mammals.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalVirus Evolution·DateJan 13, 2023

Corpus callosum found to switch off right hemisphere during speech

Researchers at the HSE Centre for Language and Brain found that a thicker corpus callosum is associated with less lateralization of language functions to the right hemisphere. The study used advanced neuroimaging methods, including fMRI, to measure brain activity while participants completed a sentence completion task.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 13, 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.

One-pot reaction creates versatile building block for bioactive molecules

Chemists at the University of Groningen have developed a simple one-pot reaction to produce chiral Z-alkenes, previously inaccessible molecules. This method uses a phosphine molecule as a starting point, reducing the need for purification and allowing for the creation of complex functionalised alkenes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

HRT could ward off Alzheimer’s among at-risk women

A new study suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could help prevent Alzheimer's disease in women who are carriers of the APOE4 gene. The research found that HRT use is associated with improved memory and larger brain volumes among at-risk women. Early introduction of HRT during perimenopause may be particularly beneficial.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAlzheimer s Research & Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 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.

A novel, powerful tool to unveil the communication between gut microbes and the brain

A novel laboratory protocol enables researchers to investigate connections between gut microbes and the brain, shedding light on how microbes influence the central nervous system. The tool allows for comprehensive evaluation of metabolites produced by microbes, providing insights into their role in health and disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

World first test to detect diabetics at risk of kidney disease

A world-first study has identified genetic markers for people with diabetes at risk of developing kidney disease. The findings could lead to the development of a predictive test that can detect adults with Type 1 diabetes at risk before symptoms appear, allowing for early-stage interventions.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Managing emotions better could prevent pathological ageing

Researchers from UNIGE observed that negative emotions modify the brains of older adults excessively and over time, particularly in the posterior cingulate cortex and amygdala. This could be prevented with better emotional management, such as meditation, which could limit neurodegeneration.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Aging·TypeNews article·DateJan 13, 2023

A star’s unexpected survival

A team of physicists has proposed a model for a repeating partial tidal disruption event, revealing the capture of a star by a supermassive black hole and its repeated stripping of material. The study provides unprecedented insight into the existence of supermassive black holes and the orbital dynamics of stars in galaxy centers.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 13, 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.

Strong, recyclable plastic

Researchers have created a strong and recyclable biodegradable polyester that breaks down fully to its starting materials using mild chemical or biological processes. The new material has similar crystallinity to high-density polyethylene and retains beneficial mechanical properties.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Study: Bilingual kids could lead in ocean environmental action

A recent study from North Carolina State University suggests that participation in environmental education programs can motivate children across diverse language groups to act responsibly toward the environment. Bilingual or multilingual students saw bigger gains on average compared to students who spoke English primarily at home.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Education·DateJan 13, 2023

Machine learning method improves cell identity understanding

A research team at Carnegie Mellon University has developed a machine learning method called SPICEMIX to analyze spatial transcriptomics data. The tool helps identify and understand gene expression patterns in cells, revealing new insights into brain cell types.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 13, 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.

Clinical trial results indicate low rate of adverse events associated with implanted brain computer interface

A new clinical trial report reveals that brain-computer interface implants are associated with a low rate of adverse events, similar to those experienced by patients with other chronic medical conditions. The study, which followed 14 participants for an average of 872 days, found no serious adverse events or device removals.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNeurology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 13, 2023

Changes in the approximation of snow by climate models over typical vegetation in the Northern Hemisphere

Researchers analyzed relationships between snow cover and depth for three vegetation types in the Northern Hemisphere. Different interactions between land cover and snow processes were found, which climate models struggle to reproduce. This study highlights the need to improve snow parameterization schemes.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 13, 2023

How supervisors can create a better work environment for deaf or hard-of-hearing employees

Researchers found that the severity of an employee's hearing loss influences their reliance on professional connections, which affects career outcomes. Managers can offer tailored support to help employees build professional connections, such as providing accommodations and creating a culture of respect. This study suggests that even e...

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2023

OU-led group improves ability to identify and study algae species

A new genome-based taxonomy has been developed to characterize ecological niches of Microcystis, including nutrient requirements and seasonality. This will aid in the control of harmful Microcystis blooms and reduce health risks associated with water quality management.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 13, 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.

CityU unravels interfacial interactions of the lead-free perovskite for efficient hydrogen production

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a lead-free perovskite photocatalyst for highly efficient solar energy-to-hydrogen conversion. The study uncovers the interfacial dynamics between halide perovskite molecules and electrolytes, enabling better photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

AI improves detail, estimate of urban air pollution

Researchers developed machine learning models to accurately calculate fine particulate matter in urban air pollution using AI and traffic data. The models provide a high-resolution estimation of city street pollution surface, enabling transportation and epidemiology studies to assess health impacts.

SourceCornell University·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateJan 13, 2023

Health insurance as a fuel for medical progress

A study finds that increasing health insurance coverage explains 63% of increased healthcare expenditure and boosts medical patent registrations by 57%. Health insurance expansion also increases life expectancy by 1.2 years due to stimulation of medical progress.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateJan 13, 2023