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Science News for January 19, 2023


What makes brown rice healthy? Decoding the chemistry of its nutritional wealth

Researchers at Okayama University have identified cycloartenyl ferulate as the main contributor to brown rice's health-promoting effects. The compound's antioxidant properties help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to benefits such as weight reduction and improved cholesterol levels.

SourceOkayama University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 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.

Towards highly conducting molecular materials with a partially oxidized organic neutral molecule

A team of researchers from Japan has developed a single purely organic neutral molecule with an incomplete oxidation state for the first time. The new molecule exhibits multi-step phase transitions and crossover caused by intra- and intermolecular electronic interactions, leading to unique strongly correlated electron properties.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Why Asia-Pacific tropical seas flourish with marine life

A new study reveals that transient wind events trigger significant phytoplankton blooms near tropical reef islands, creating a large network of marine ecosystems. This process, driven by coastal winds, fuels the production of phytoplankton and supports critical feeding habitats for migratory marine species.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Oceanography·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2023

Relationship between superconductivity and strange-metal state in FeSe revealed by ionic-liquid gating

Scientists have discovered a quadratic relationship between the coefficient of T-linear resistivity and transition temperature in FeSe, indicating that spin fluctuations may play a common role in unconventional superconductors. This finding provides insight into high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Physics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 19, 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.

DNA from domesticated chickens is tainting genomes of wild red junglefowl

A recent study found that DNA from domesticated chickens has been introgressing into the genomes of wild red junglefowl, leading to a loss of genetic diversity. The researchers estimate that wild birds have inherited 20-50% of their genomes from domestic chickens, which could make them less resilient to environmental changes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023

Manufacturing advances bring material back in vogue

Lithium niobate (LN) is being developed to harness its exceptional properties for diverse future applications. LN photonic chips can transform industries beyond optical fibre communications by detecting signals in the infrared part of the spectrum.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023

Mother’s health and lifestyle during pregnancy shape neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children

A new study conducted at the University of Turku found that maternal gestational diabetes mellitus may have unfavourable effects on the neurodevelopment of 2-year-old children. A healthy diet during pregnancy supports child's neurodevelopment, while higher maternal body fat percentage is associated with weaker cognitive and motor skills.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPediatric Research·DateJan 19, 2023

Massive fuel hungry black holes feed off intergalactic gas

A research team from the University of Southampton discovered that supermassive black holes are fueled by gas clouds from neighboring galaxies. The study found a link between misaligned gas and active supermassive black hole activity, suggesting that galaxy interactions provide a source of fuel for these phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 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.

Protein Sirtuin 7 suppresses heat production in brown adipose tissue

Researchers found that Sirtuin 7 regulates brown adipose tissue functions, leading to suppressed energy expenditure and thermogenesis. The study reveals a molecular pathway involving protein deacylation and mRNA binding, which will have implications for treating hypermetabolic conditions like cancer and obesity.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Stopping a rare childhood cancer in its tracks

Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have found a way to reprogram cells causing Ewing sarcoma to behave like normal connective tissue cells. By blocking the protein ETV6, cancer cells can be forced to take on a new identity and grow less aggressively.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 19, 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.

A blood test for cancer shows promise thanks to machine learning

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a machine-learning model that detects cancers at an early stage by analyzing fragments of cell-free DNA in plasma. The technique, which uses readily available lab materials, distinguished people with any stage of cancer from healthy individuals 91% of the time.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 19, 2023

National Institutes of Health grant to fund Alzheimer's research

Researchers at Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology will use a unique combination of MRI and mass spectrometry imaging techniques to study Alzheimer's disease on an unprecedented scale. By capturing detailed chemical information, they aim to understand the molecular-level changes that occur in aging brains and develop ...

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·DateJan 19, 2023

How pancreatic cancer defies treatment

Researchers at UC San Diego describe how pancreatic cancer stem cells leverage SMARCD3, a protein that normally suppresses tumors, to boost resistance to treatments and drive growth. Deleting SMARCD3 reduces tumor growth and improves survival rates.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 19, 2023

CABBI team achieves first precision gene editing in miscanthus

The CABBI team successfully demonstrated precision gene editing in miscanthus, a promising perennial crop for sustainable bioenergy production. The results will accelerate efforts to tap the huge potential of this highly productive but genetically complex grass as a source for biofuels, renewable bioproducts, and carbon sequestration.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Better understanding cancer and heart disease

A Canadian-led research team has discovered how the protein PCSK9 degrades LDL receptors, leading to increased cholesterol levels. HLA-C plays a critical role in this process, which could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateJan 19, 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.

Paper: California's proposal to manufacture insulin could curb prices, improve public health

A new paper by a University of Illinois legal scholar suggests that California's CalRx Biosimilar Insulin Initiative could lower insulin prices, saving uninsured patients up to $4,000 per year. The proposal faces regulatory and logistical challenges, including FDA approval and state budgeting issues.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 19, 2023

Analyzing sweat via microelectronic fibers for non-invasive health monitoring

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a microelectronic fiber that can analyze electrolytes and metabolites in sweat, enabling wearable bioelectronics for monitoring biochemical signatures. The breakthrough smart fabric has the potential to provide greater versatility in functions, larger sensing areas, and greater comfort.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJan 19, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An innovative approach reveals a novel strategy for engineering root nodule symbiosis into important crops for more sustainable agri-food systems

Researchers developed a novel strategy to engineer root nodule symbiosis in legumes and cereals using nanobodies. This approach, tested in barley and Lotus plants, initiates nodulation by bringing receptors together, revealing the core complex involved in symbiotic signaling.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Using cancer cells as logic gates to determine what makes them move

Purdue University researchers employ a cellular signal processing system to analyze the migration of cancer cells, identifying the impact of chemical cues and fluid flow on cell movement. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding cancer metastasis and the development of more effective treatments.

SourcePurdue University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateJan 19, 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.

Reducing water flow model uncertainty

Researchers connected global climate modeling with local hydrological data to improve water flow models. They found that using smaller tree samples and younger trees yielded better model validation results.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2023

‘Living medicine’ created to tackle drug-resistant lung infections

Researchers have designed a treatment that uses a modified bacterium to target and dissolve biofilms caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a leading cause of hospital mortality. The treatment has shown significant efficacy in mice, reducing lung infections and doubling survival rates.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Visibility of stars in the night sky declines faster than previously thought

A worldwide Citizen Science project has collected data on light pollution over eleven years, revealing a faster decline in star visibility than previously thought. The rate of change is attributed to increased sky brightness, with dramatic consequences for stargazing and astronomy.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 19, 2023

THE LANCET: Experts call for greater cooperation between human, animal and environmental health organisations to protect against future public health crises

A new Lancet Series argues that a 'One Health' approach is needed to prevent, monitor, and respond to public health emergencies globally. The series calls for greater investment in preventive and preparedness interventions, as well as greater representation of environmental organisations.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 19, 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.

Testing of plane wastewater showed ‘failure’ of COVID-era air travel measures

Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 virus in almost all plane wastewater at three UK airports during a period of COVID restrictions. The study suggests that wastewater testing could be used to monitor the general health of passengers on flights entering the country, potentially capturing 8-14% of SARS-CoV-2 cases.

SourceBangor University·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 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.

Reforming the Chinese Academy of Sciences to manage large-scale research

The Chinese Academy of Sciences is reorganizing its institutes into four categories to focus on basic research, applied science, and regional development. However, concentrating resources on creating centers of big-science research infrastructure may bring more distinct competitiveness to the CAS.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023

Baboons ‘crouch and sprint’ to take standing up in their stride

Researchers discovered that baboons employ an efficient strategy to transition from quadrupedal to bipedal walking by 'crouching' their hindlimbs and 'sprinting' them forward under their torso. This process enables the animals to maintain a natural gait while standing upright, requiring minimal energy expenditure.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Moffitt researchers develop tool to measure patient health and well-being after radionuclide therapy

Researchers developed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Radionuclide Therapy (FACT-RNT) questionnaire to identify key symptoms and side effects associated with radionuclide therapy. The tool aims to improve patient-centered care and guide treatment decisions for prostate cancer patients.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023

Following pandemic, educators are not all right, but meditation could ease burden

A recent study from UW's Center for Healthy Minds found that COVID-19's impact on K-12 schooling took a toll on educators' mental health, with 78% reporting clinically meaningful anxiety symptoms. Meditation-based interventions showed promise in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among school system employees.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEducational Researcher·DateJan 19, 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.

Marine biology: The genes that made whales gigantic

A new study in Scientific Reports identifies four genes associated with whales' massive size, including GHSR, IGFBP7, NCAPG, and PLAG1. These genes promote large body sizes while mitigating potential drawbacks like increased cancer risk.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 19, 2023

Stars disappear before our eyes, citizen scientists report

A new study by Globe at Night reveals that artificial lighting is dulling the night sky more rapidly than satellite measurements indicate. The loss of visible stars has alarming implications for human health and wildlife.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023

All in the mind – decoding brainwaves to identify the music we are listening to

Researchers at the University of Essex have developed a new technique that uses non-invasive brain wave monitoring to accurately identify the music someone is listening to. The method has been successfully tested on a dataset of simple piano music and shows promise for decoding language signals from the brain in the future.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 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.

Scientists advise a major shift in chemicals management in the U.S. and Canada

Scientists propose an 'essential use approach' to eliminate harmful chemicals from daily use and exposure, benefiting public health and the environment. This approach advocates for restricting the use of chemicals only where necessary for health or societal functioning, with feasible alternatives available.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 19, 2023

Squirrels that gamble win big when it comes to evolutionary fitness

In a new study, red squirrels that gamble with their reproductive strategy outperform those that play it safe, especially during mast years. Despite short-term costs, female squirrels that increase litter sizes in low-food years experience greater lifetime fitness if they get to experience a mast year.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023

Active matter theory explains fire-ant group behavior

Fire ants exhibit activity cycles and waves that propagate upwards in high-density conditions, driven by social attraction and collective motion. The study reveals the importance of density in determining these behaviors, which are similar to those observed in flocks of birds and schools of fish.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Dartmouth-led study finds that team-based coaching reduces risks of acute kidney injury after heart procedures

A Dartmouth-led study found that team-based coaching significantly improves the risk of acquiring post-procedural acute kidney injury (AKI) when compared to other interventions. The Collaborative with Surveillance intervention reduced the odds of AKI by 46 percent, making it a promising approach to address this prevalent adverse event.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 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.

Polymer p-doping improves perovskite solar cell stability

Researchers developed a technique that introduces a phosphonic acid-functionalized fullerene derivative and a redox-active radical polymer to strengthen the perovskite crystal structure and increase conductivity. This approach improved the stability of perovskite solar cells, achieving efficiencies comparable to traditional solar cells.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023

How habanero peppers respond to stress

Researchers found that metabolite changes were most evident in ripe fruit, with nitrogen deficiency increasing some compounds and phosphorus deficiency decreasing diversity. Salinity threshold above which metabolites change was identified, which could impact harvested pepper resistance to pathogens.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Agricultural Science & Technology·DateJan 19, 2023

Malformed seashells, ancient sediment provide clues about Earth’s past

Researchers studied ancient sediment and microfossils to understand the Ocean Anoxic Event 2 (OAE2), a significant environmental disruption that choked oxygen from oceans. The team proposes a new hypothesis for the Plenus Cold Event, which briefly interrupted intense greenhouse temperatures due to ocean acidification.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Chemotherapy before surgery cuts risk of colon cancer returning, trial finds

A Cancer Research UK-funded clinical trial found that chemotherapy before surgery reduces the chance of colon cancer returning within 2 years by 28%. The study involved 1,053 patients and showed significant benefits in terms of preventing cancer recurrence.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 19, 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.

Identifying individuals with debilitating fear of COVID-19 for therapeutic intervention

A study from the University of Tsukuba has established a reliable way to assess the impact of COVID-19 on daily life and mental health. The analysis revealed that approximately one-third of participants experienced moderate or severe psychological distress, while seven out of ten individuals faced problems due to fear of COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 19, 2023

Korea Maritime and Ocean University researchers lay out strategies for up-scaling of bioelectrochemical systems

Researchers have identified the need for standardization of performance indices and a single frame for normalization methods to address concerns with bioelectrochemical systems. The study proposes strategies for up-scaling BES technologies, enabling resource recovery through on-site treatment of wastewater at an efficiency comparable t...

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalBioresource Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 19, 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.

Nature Medicine publishes breakthrough Owkin research on the first ever use of federated learning to train deep learning models on multiple hospitals’ histopathology data

The study, published in Nature Medicine, demonstrates the first-ever use of federated learning to train deep learning models on histopathology data from multiple hospitals without compromising data privacy. This breakthrough has the potential to unlock precision medicine through secure and AI-powered medical research.

SourceOwkin, Inc.·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 19, 2023

An unprecedented look at colorectal cancer

A team at Harvard Medical School has created large-scale 2D and 3D spatial maps of colorectal cancer, layering molecular information on top of histological features. The maps reveal the interconnectedness of traditional isolated structures in colorectal cancer, allowing researchers to explore differences within individual tumors.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJan 19, 2023

New data clarifies safe and effective treatment for patients with mitral valve disease

Recent national data analyzed by leading cardiology and cardiothoracic surgical researchers found that the rate of successful repair has reached over 90% in the US, with an extremely low risk of mortality across nearly all age ranges. A novel risk model was developed to predict 30-day outcomes based on patient health conditions.

SourceThe Society of Thoracic Surgeons·JournalThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 19, 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.

Low-impact human recreation changes wildlife behavior

A study found that human presence in Glacier National Park causes 16 out of 22 mammal species to change their movement patterns, using different areas or being more nocturnal. The researchers suggest that this effect is significant enough to impact population survival.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 19, 2023

Researchers create a new 3D extra-large pore zeolite that opens a new path to the decontamination of water and gas

Researchers have developed a new pure silica zeolite with extra-large pores in all three dimensions, enabling efficient removal and recovery of volatile organic compounds from gas streams. The discovery has potential applications in catalysis and drug delivery, and could be used to decontaminate sites where harmful chemicals are produced.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 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.

Researchers demonstrate co-propagation of quantum and classical signals

A new study shows that a quantum data channel and classical optical signals can co-propagate in the same fiber with low error rates, reducing the cost of implementing quantum key distribution. Researchers tested a commercial multiplexed QKD system on a wavelength-division multiplexing link and achieved a total data rate of 6 Tb/s.

SourceOptica·DateJan 19, 2023

Novel method for assigning workplaces in synthetic populations unveiled

Researchers in Japan have developed a novel method to assign workplace locations to individuals in synthetic populations, addressing a significant limitation of previous models. This breakthrough enables more accurate social simulations, which can be used to assess various social issues and inform policy decisions.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computational Social Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 19, 2023

Honey bee metabolic pathway discovered with strong connections to winter colony losses

A study by US Department of Agriculture scientists has identified a specific metabolic pathway controlling energy and immune response in honey bees under cold stress. This pathway is strongly connected to large overwintering colony losses, making it a promising avenue for new therapeutic strategies to mitigate these losses.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalJournal of Advanced Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Study reveals key aspect of the finely tuned regulation of gene expression

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered a novel mechanism of gene expression regulation involving enhancers and promoters. They found that enhancers and promoters are tightly interconnected through a process called enhancer-promoter entanglement, which affects transcription.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Average pregnancy length in the US is shorter than in European countries

A new study reveals that US pregnancies are shorter than those in England and the Netherlands, with average lengths declining by over half a week between 1990 and 2020. This finding suggests that reducing medical interventions during the birthing process could improve maternity care outcomes in the US.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 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.

Review highlights 10 years of CRISPR genome editing technology

Researchers have made significant progress in CRISPR genome editing, enabling applications in plants, animals, and humans. Despite challenges, the technology has shown promise for treating rare diseases and improving agriculture.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023

New region-specific cortical communication channel

A new study reveals a novel cortico-thalamic connection that targets the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN), which plays a crucial role in regulating inhibitory activity in the brain. The discovery provides insights into the neuronal basis of normal cognition and chronic neurological diseases linked to frontal cortex.

SourceInstitute of Experimental Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Accurate integrated imaging and projection system for oral cancer diagnosis

Researchers developed a multimodal imaging-based tool, the active biopsy guidance system (ABGS), to improve oral cancer diagnosis. The ABGS provides clinically actionable direct visible guidance for biopsies, enhancing precision and potentially saving lives.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJan 19, 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.

Gut bugs control the body’s thermostat

A study led by Robert Dickson found that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature, both in health and during sepsis. The researchers discovered that certain bacteria from the Firmicutes phylum were strongly associated with increased fever response.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 19, 2023

Study: COVID surges caused higher mortality among non-COVID patients

A study by Kennesaw State University researcher Weiwei Chen found that COVID surges led to poorer outcomes for non-COVID patients in hospitals overwhelmed with COVID cases. The odds of an in-hospital death were 1.2 times higher among non-COVID patients than before the pandemic.

SourceKennesaw State University·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 19, 2023

Defects in mitotic and telomere function increase risk for sarcomas

Researchers identified 14 pathogenic variants in genes related to mitosis and telomere integrity, suggesting alterations in these processes are key to sarcoma predisposition. The study provides new biological insight into sarcoma development and could inform better genetic risk profiles for the disease.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

UMD-led team deciphers comprehensive black-legged tick genome

A University of Maryland-led team deciphered the first comprehensive genome for a parasite responsible for transmitting Lyme disease and other serious infections. The researchers identified thousands of novel genes and new protein functions, including proteins associated with tick immunity and disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Availability of recreational cannabis reduced demand for prescription codeine

A study by University of Pittsburgh and Cornell University scientists found that states with recreational cannabis laws saw a significant reduction in pharmacy-based codeine distribution. This reduction is promising from a public health perspective, as prescription opioid misuse contributes to thousands of overdose deaths annually.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHealth Economics·DateJan 19, 2023

Violence was widespread in early farming society, study says

New research suggests that violence and warfare were prevalent in many Neolithic communities across Northwest Europe during the period of farming adoption. Over 10% of skeletal remains from 180 sites dating back to 8000-4000 years ago showed evidence of weapon injuries, including blunt force trauma and penetrative injuries.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateJan 19, 2023

Ionic liquids' good vibrations change laser colors with ease

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory demonstrate a new color-shifting strategy that relies on interactions between lasers and vibrational energy in ionic liquids. The method offers an efficient and customizable approach to shift laser colors, with applications in science, industry, and medicine.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJan 19, 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.

Approaching the terahertz regime

Scientists have created a new class of nonvolatile memory devices using antiferromagnets that can store stable memory states and read them incredibly quickly. This breakthrough could lead to faster memory devices with performance beyond the terahertz regime.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Turning a poison into food

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology reveal how a specific enzyme, Fsr, converts sulfite into sulfide, allowing methanogens to grow safely on toxic substances. This discovery opens opportunities for biotechnological applications and provides insights into the evolution of these microorganisms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 19, 2023

Nearly 50-meter laser experiment sets record in University of Maryland hallway

Researchers at the University of Maryland successfully guided a 45-meter-long beam of light through an unremarkable hallway, pushing the limits of an innovative technique. The team utilized ultra-short laser pulses to create a plasma that heated air, forming a high-density core and enabling efficient light delivery.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJan 19, 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.

Study explores control options for black swallowwort

Researchers conducted a three-year field study to determine how black swallowwort responds to common controls. The study found that annual applications of glyphosate were effective in reducing aboveground biomass, but less effective in reducing cover and stem densities.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalInvasive Plant Science and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Specific immune response to Epstein-Barr virus discovered

A recent study found that people with a specific genetic variation have a lower risk of developing infectious mononucleosis after initial Epstein-Barr virus infection. The researchers identified an EBV-specific immune response as the cause and suggest it could be a target for vaccine development.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalBlood·DateJan 19, 2023

Older adults with asthma at high risk for depression during the COVID-19 pandemic

A recent study published in Respiratory Medicine found that older adults with asthma are at high risk of depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately half of those with a pre-pandemic history of depression experienced a recurrence, while one in seven without a history of depression developed depression for the first time.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalRespiratory Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023

Geographic access to pediatric cancer care in US

Most children in the continental US have adequate access to pediatric cancer care, but disparities exist among racial and ethnic groups and in rural areas. Reducing these disparities requires innovative approaches such as expanding local facilities and partnerships with adult oncology centers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 19, 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.

Older adults benefit when health care providers and affordable housing sites partner

Research finds that seniors living in R3 program sites have lower hospitalization rates, days, payments, and readmissions compared to control sites. The R3 initiative embeds wellness teams in senior housing, providing assessments, proactive check-in calls, risk stratification, and care coordination.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalHealth Services Research·DateJan 19, 2023

Discrimination cost Asian restaurants in US an additional $7.4 billion during the pandemic's first year, new study finds

A new study found that anti-Asian discrimination during the pandemic led to a nearly 20-percent drop in business at Chinese restaurants, resulting in an additional $7.4 billion in lost revenue. The researchers also found a strong link between political rhetoric blaming China for COVID-19 and the decline in business.

SourceBoston College·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 19, 2023

Genes that cause rare hidden cancer revealed by Australian-led study

Researchers have created a genetic map to identify important genes causing sarcoma, a common childhood cancer. The study found that one in 14 individuals with sarcoma carries a clinically significant gene, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023

Dollar stores are growing as food retailers in the US

A new study from Tufts University finds that dollar stores have doubled their share in rural areas, with households headed by people of color and lower-income households relying heavily on them. The growth of dollar stores raises concerns about the nutritional value of their food offerings and potential displacement of local grocers.

SourceTufts University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 19, 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.

Light shaped as a smoke ring behaves like a particle

Researchers report the discovery of photonic hopfions, a new family of 3D topological solitons with freely tunable textures and numbers. These structures exhibit robust topological protection, making them suitable for applications in optical communications, quantum technologies, and metrology.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJan 19, 2023

Neural prosthesis uses brain activity to decode speech

Researchers have developed a machine learning model that can predict the word about to be uttered by a subject based on their neural activity. The model achieved 55% accuracy using six channels of data and 70% accuracy using eight channels, comparable to other studies requiring electrodes over the entire cortical surface.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateJan 19, 2023

500,000 missed out on blood pressure lowering drugs during pandemic

Researchers found that nearly half a million people missed starting medication to lower their blood pressure during the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to thousands of avoidable cardiovascular events. Identifying individuals who missed out on treatment could reduce these events by just over 2,700.

SourceHealth Data Research UK·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 19, 2023

Certain gene signaling rewires tumors after immunotherapy

Researchers found that certain gene signaling pathways, such as interferon γ and beta-catenin, can lead to tumor hyperprogression after immunotherapy. Targeting these pathways may prevent hyperprogression in preclinical models.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 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.

Bacterial electricity: Membrane potential influences antibiotic tolerance

Researchers at the University of Cologne discovered that bacterial membrane potential changes during biofilm formation, correlating with increased antibiotic tolerance. The study found characteristic patterns of polarization that evolve in space and time, which are linked to a change in oxygen availability.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 19, 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.

Product images could boost food pantry use

A recent study from Cornell University found that visual depictions of food pantry offerings, including brand names, have an ameliorative effect on negative product perceptions. The research also revealed that participants' pantry use history plays a role in their assessment of the quality of the food pantry products.

SourceCornell University·JournalAgricultural Economics·DateJan 19, 2023

How to push, wiggle, or drill an object through sand

Engineers at MIT and Georgia Tech have developed a faster and simpler way to model intrusion through any soft, flowable material. The new method uses Resistive Force Theory (RFT) and adapt it to 3D, predicting forces needed to push objects through sand, gravel, or other soft media in real-time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2023

Vertical electrochemical transistor pushes wearable electronics forward

A transdisciplinary team at Northwestern University developed a vertical electrochemical transistor that amplifies important signals, making it suitable for wearable devices in bioelectronics. The transistor's high performance and stability enable efficient on-site signal processing.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2023

Omicron caused fewer cases of MIS-C in children than delta and they were milder, says new study based on 2021-22 data

A new University at Buffalo study found that omicron caused fewer cases of multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) compared to the delta wave, with milder symptoms. During the omicron wave, MIS-C comprised just 6% of hospital admissions, a 32% decrease from the 12% during the delta wave.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalViruses·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 19, 2023