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Science News for January 16, 2023


Early humans: Annual cycles in tooth enamel provide insights into life histories

Researchers analyzed ancient teeth from Homo erectus and great apes to reveal annual cycles in tooth enamel, providing insights into their diets and seasonal food supplies. The study shows that humans and great apes had distinct dietary patterns, with humans exhibiting less pronounced peaks and lower Sr/Ca values.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Everyday Aussies’ social media posts help find missing plant species

Researchers from Curtin University have identified six new plant species using photos shared on Facebook and iNaturalist. The newly described carnivorous sundews were discovered through images taken by nature enthusiasts and photographers, demonstrating the potential of citizen scientists to contribute to advances in taxonomic research.

SourceCurtin University·JournalBiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 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.

A tool to detect higher-order phenomena in real-world data

Researchers developed a novel approach to network analysis that can reveal and interpret interactions among multiple variables in neuroscience, economics, and epidemiology. The method uses multivariate time series data and distinguishes major features not detectable by standard pairwise statistics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 16, 2023

Novel neurofeedback technique enhances awareness of mind-wandering

A novel neurofeedback technique was developed to enhance awareness of mind-wandering, allowing individuals to manage this state more effectively. The study demonstrated significant enhancement in awareness after 20 minutes of neurofeedback, with no rewards or punishments used.

SourceATR Brain Information Communication Research Laboratory Group·JournalNeural Networks·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 16, 2023

Reading project which pairs old and young boosts wellbeing among children and the elderly, analysis shows

A reading project that pairs school-age children with older adults has been found to boost wellbeing among both groups. The Silver Stories programme built relationships between generations and helped children develop social skills and confidence, while also fighting loneliness for listeners.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCambridge Journal of Education·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 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.

Climate conundrum: Study finds ants aren’t altering behavior in rising temperatures

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that ants do not adjust their behavior in response to rising temperatures, persisting in sub-optimal microhabitats. The study suggests that ants may not be able to adapt to warmer ecosystems, with potential implications for forest ecosystems.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Speeding up sugar's conversion into fuel

University of Queensland researchers have found a way to more efficiently convert sugarcane into isobutanol, a chemical used in fuels, plastics, and food additives. The cell-free method produces at least 10 times the amount of isobutanol as traditional methods, offering higher yields and more control over the production process.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateJan 16, 2023

Reversed flow over Tibetan plateau caused extreme Asian summer climate in 2022

A recent study found that reversed flow over the Tibetan Plateau led to extreme climate events in subtropical Asia in 2022. Strong descending motion on the eastern side of TP caused persistent heat waves, while strong ascending motion on the western side caused excessive rainfall and flooding.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateJan 16, 2023

Researchers from the Hospital 12 de Octubre and the Josep Carreras Institute create a cell therapy based on STAb cells for a type of leukemia with few treatment options

Researchers from Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre and Josep Carreras Institute create a cell therapy based on STAb cells for T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL), a rare disease with few treatment options. The new therapy offers an alternative to CAR-T therapies, which have limitations in treating this type of leukemia.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalBMJ·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Stress-tolerant cells drive tumor initiation in pancreatic cancer

Researchers discovered a molecular pathway critical to the initiation of pancreatic tumors, which can contribute to disease resistance and metastasis. Targeting this pathway could limit tumor progression, relapse, and spread by disrupting the interaction between cancer cells and their microenvironment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 16, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

The effects of tightening a molecular knot

A study by University of Liège researchers decodes the mechanical response of synthetic small-molecule overhand knots to tightening, revealing a high resisting force and relative rigidity. The results have relevance for designing extended knotted and molecularly woven materials.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalChem·DateJan 16, 2023

The link between mental health and ADHD is strong – so why aren’t we paying attention?

A new UK study led by psychologists at the University of Bath reveals that adults with high levels of ADHD symptoms are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than those with autistic traits. The study, published in Scientific Reports, uses innovative analytical techniques to confirm a strong link between ADHD personality tra...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

RIT scientists help rediscover earliest known star map using multispectral imaging

RIT Professor Roger Easton and his team used multispectral imaging to reveal detailed drawings on an ancient Greek palimpsest, reconstructing Hipparchus' Star Catalogue. The discovery showcases the technique's growing role in historical preservation, with RIT supporting locations across US and Europe.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalJournal for the History of Astronomy·DateJan 16, 2023

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers find persistent gender gap among scientific editors

A study by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers found that women are consistently underrepresented among scientific journal editors, with fewer female editors publishing their research in the journals they edit. The study highlights the need for diversity and representation amongst editors to foster a more inclusive scientific community.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 16, 2023

Artificial intelligence to help prevent illegal construction

Researchers use drone technology to detect changes in building facades and assess technical condition, enabling accurate classification and identification. The system can also be used for urban heritage site monitoring and planning urban development.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalElectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

I do not see, I do not hear, but I know

A new study by Italian neuroscientists found that blind and deaf individuals' brains possess an innate functional architecture for integrating sensory information. This suggests that brain architecture can develop independently from sensory experience, adding weight to the 'nature versus nurture' debate.

SourceIMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

COVID-19 during pregnancy ramps up serious health risks

A new study found that COVID-19 infection in pregnant women significantly increases the risk of death, ICU admission, and preterm birth. The research highlights the need for COVID-19 vaccination among women of childbearing age to prevent these serious health risks.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 16, 2023

Mucosal antibodies in the airways provide durable protection against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers found that high levels of mucosal IgA antibodies in the airways protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection for at least eight months, with a 90% lower risk of re-infection. Participants with prior infections generated stronger mucosal immune responses to Omicron breakthrough infections.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 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.

Turning robots into skilled waiters

MIRMI researchers create robotic waiter with precise control using the principles of a spherical pendulum, achieving 'slosh-free movement' and improving safety. The solution has potential applications in healthcare and hazardous materials transport.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·TypeCase study·DateJan 16, 2023

Benefits of oral hygiene can drive university students towards dental check-ups

A study by researchers from Okayama University found that Japanese university students' willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups is associated with their thoughts regarding the health-belief model and oral health behaviors. The study suggests that the perceived benefit of undergoing regular check-ups drives young students toward...

SourceOkayama University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJan 16, 2023

Non-fused ring electron acceptors based organic solar cells: From materials design to devices performances

Researchers discuss non-fused ring electron acceptors (NFREAs) to improve organic solar cell performances, balance efficiency and cost, and provide guidance for material design. NFREAs simplify synthesis processes while achieving high reaction yields and planarity.

SourceInstitute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 16, 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.

Breakthrough in the sugar biology of multicellular organisms

Researchers from ETH Zurich elucidated the structure and function of tryptophan C-mannosyltransferase (CMT), a glycosyltransferase enzyme involved in C-mannosylation. The study reveals the enzyme's novel mechanism, enabling precise understanding of protein sequences and sugar substrates.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 16, 2023

Joint effort discloses deep divergence of a mysterious porpoise

Researchers found four genetic populations of the finless porpoise in Chinese waters and three in the Gulf of Thailand, with unique matriline lineages. The study suggests ongoing gene flow among populations, requiring careful evaluation of inter-population connectivity for conservation action.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWater Biology and Security·TypeNews article·DateJan 16, 2023

The 'guardian of the genome' protects against cardiovascular disease

Researchers found that p53 mutations in blood cells increase the risk of developing coronary heart disease and peripheral artery disease. The study provides solid evidence for the link between acquired p53 gene mutations and cardiovascular disease, suggesting a potential new risk factor.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Using machine learning to predict brain tumor progression

A computational model predicts brain tumour growth using MRI data, providing valuable insights for clinicians. The study uses anonymous patient data to develop a predictive model for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) growth, which can be used to inform treatment decisions.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateJan 16, 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.

Record-breaking detection of radio signal from atomic hydrogen in extremely distant galaxy using GMRT

Researchers have detected a radio signal from atomic hydrogen in an extremely distant galaxy at redshift z=1.29, marking the largest distance so far. The signal was amplified by gravitational lensing, allowing the team to observe the galaxy's atomic hydrogen mass, which is almost twice its stellar mass.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 16, 2023

Ancient chimaeras were suction feeders, not shell crushers, new research shows

A new study reveals that ancient chimaeras were suction feeders, contrary to their modern shell-crushing behavior. The research, led by the University of Birmingham, analyzed a rare three-dimensional fossil and found evidence supporting this alternative feeding method.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Deep meditation may alter gut microbes for better health

A study found that Tibetan Buddhist monks with long-term deep meditation practice had distinct gut microbiome profiles, associated with lower risks of anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Their gut microbiota was enriched with beneficial bacteria that may influence mental health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 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.

Research shows how hospitals can speed up surgery times with separate patient preparation

Researchers at the University of Bath show that separating patient preparation from operating theatre schedules can significantly improve theatre availability and reduce waiting times. The study found a 40% improvement in theatre idle times and benefits for patient waiting times when surgery procedures are reconfigured.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalOmega·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 16, 2023

Blocking radio waves and electromagnetic interference with the flip of a switch

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a thin film device that can dynamically control electromagnetic wave shielding using MXene materials. The device can convert from shielding to quasi-electromagnetic wave transmission by electrochemical oxidation, making it suitable for various security applications.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

How gut bacteria evade the immune system

Researchers identified a new type of flagellin in the human gut that binds to Toll-like receptor 5 without inducing an inflammatory response. This discovery provides a mechanism for the immune system to tolerate beneficial microbes while remaining responsive to pathogens.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Immunology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 16, 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.

20,000 premature US deaths caused by human-ignited fires

A study published in Environmental Research Letters finds that human-ignited fires are responsible for over 67% of small smoke particles called PM2.5 in the US, leading to 20,000 premature deaths annually. The research highlights the need for ignition-focused management plans to reduce human-ignited fires and minimize health impacts.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJan 16, 2023

Tens of thousands of feasible catalysts on the diameter of a hair

Scientists at Ruhr-University Bochum develop a technique to create complete five-element material systems on a carrier roughly the size of a human hair. This enables them to efficiently search for new catalysts with high catalytic activity, crucial for environmentally friendly energy conversion processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 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.

Pressured coaches try to get sports psychologists to gossip

Research shows pressure from coaches and management forces sports psychologists to share confidential conversations with players, leading to mistrust. To build trust, sports psychologists can work as clients, use case formulation, or establish a built-in consent process.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Sport Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateJan 16, 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.

Astronomers capture radio signal from distant galaxy

Researchers detect radio signal from record-breaking distance galaxy, measuring gas composition and gaining insights into the early universe. The signal was amplified by a factor of 30 using gravitational lensing, allowing scientists to study a previously inaccessible region.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 16, 2023

Homo sapiens or insapiens? A new insect species from Kosovo cries for help

A new species of aquatic insect, Potamophylax humoinsapiens, has been discovered in the Sharr Mountains of Kosovo. The species was named to raise awareness about human activities that have degraded habitats and led to extinction. Researchers hope this naming convention will make insects 'talk' to humanity's collective consciousness.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBiodiversity Data Journal·DateJan 16, 2023

Marriage in Minoan Crete

Researchers analyzed 100 ancient genomes to understand kinship and marriage rules in Minoan Crete and Mycenaean Greece. They found that cousin marriages were common, with over 90% of sons marrying within their own family's hamlet.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 16, 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.

Calling patients after heart failure may save lives

Researchers found that patients with low comorbidity groups who received more frequent phone calls had improved outcomes, including reduced mortality and longer hospital stays. The intervention involved regular calls from nurses to monitor patient response and address any unusual symptoms.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·DateJan 16, 2023

Deflecting lightning with a laser lightning rod

A European consortium has successfully guided lightning using a high-power laser installed at the top of Mount Säntis in Switzerland, increasing the radius of protection from 120m to 180m. The Laser Lightning Rod (LLR) works even in poor weather conditions, such as fog.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Photonics·TypeNews article·DateJan 16, 2023

Researchers produce first-ever toolkit for RNA sequencing analysis using a ‘pantranscriptome’

A new toolkit enables researchers to map individual RNA data to a more diverse 'pantranscriptome', addressing reference bias and increasing the accuracy of gene expression mapping. This approach builds on pangenomics, allowing for the comparison of an individual's genome to genetically diverse cohorts of reference sequences.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 16, 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.

From octopus to elephant: a molecular zoo of epigenetics

Scientists have mapped and analyzed DNA methylation profiles in 580 different animal species, providing insights into the evolutionary conservation of epigenetic mechanisms. The study reveals that DNA methylation constitutes a cancer-protective mechanism in large animals with long lifespans, contradicting Peto's paradox.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 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.

New smartphone app designed by University of Toronto researchers shown to significantly improve memory recall

Researchers developed HippoCamera, a new smartphone app that significantly improves memory recall by boosting attention to daily events. Users record videos and audio descriptions of everyday experiences, which are then replayed to reinforce memory consolidation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023

Leonardo da Vinci’s paradox cracked

Researchers from the University of Seville and Bristol have discovered a mechanism to explain the unstable movement of air bubbles rising in water. The simulations closely match high-precision measurements, revealing that bubbles deviate from straight-line motion when their spherical radius exceeds 0.926 millimeters.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2023

Developing weak-acid washing strategy for layered nickel-rich cathode

Researchers developed a novel, efficient, and low-cost strategy to eliminate surface impurity phases in layered nickel-rich materials. The use of acidic treatments with boric acid has been shown to improve the electrochemical performances and reduce capital costs.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 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.

Cancer biology: Some cancer cells can lose their capability to migrate

Research at Kanazawa University reveals that certain cancer cells lose metastatic potential due to negative selection, which eliminates cells with detrimental traits. These eliminated cells often have reduced growth and survival rates, and are unable to form tumors in healthy mice.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCancer Science·DateJan 16, 2023

How the last 12,000 years have shaped what humans are today

The shift from foraging to farming led to increased conflict, violence, and infectious diseases. Humans adapted genetically to dairy consumption around 5,000 years ago, while early agricultural communities faced social challenges, including limited diets and kinship organization.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 16, 2023

Dog breeds differ from each other in their cognitive traits

A study of 13 dog breeds found breed differences in cognitive traits like social cognition, problem-solving ability, and inhibitory control. The results suggest that different breeds excel in specific tasks, highlighting the complexity of canine cognition.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023

Frequent visits to green space linked to lower use of certain prescription meds

Research published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine found that frequent visits to urban green spaces were associated with lower use of prescription meds for depression, anxiety, insomnia, high blood pressure, and asthma. The frequency of green space visits was linked to a significant reduction in medication use, particularly am...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 16, 2023

Political parties formed by existing MPs are significantly more likely to be die

Research by Nicole Bolleyer and colleagues found that parties formed by existing parliamentarians are more likely to dissolve. Parties with social organization roots are less likely to dissolve early or late in their life cycle. The study analyzed data on 204 political parties in 22 democracies between 1968 and 2016.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateJan 16, 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.