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Science News for July 18, 2023


Bot inspired by baby turtles can swim under the sand

The robot uses two front limbs mimicking turtle hatchlings' oversized flippers to detect obstacles and navigate through sand. It has the potential to inspect grain silos, measure soil contaminants, and aid in search and rescue operations.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

What motivates family forest landowners to manage invasive species?

A study by the University of Illinois examines how family forest landowners in Maine and New Hampshire approach invasive species management. The researchers found that landowners prefer mechanical control methods, which are more expensive but less effective than chemical control, due to strong neighborhood effects. This has implication...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association·TypeSurvey·DateJul 18, 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.

The double face of RNase as a treatment for systemic autoimmune diseases

Researchers from Osaka University found that RNase treatments can either enhance or weaken immune activation in systemic autoimmune diseases. The study suggests that the composition of immune complexes plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of RNase treatment.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

VERA unveils surroundings of rapidly growing black holes

An international team of astronomers used VERA to observe six nearby active NLS1 galaxies, uncovering clues about how rapidly growing massive black holes form and grow. The study revealed significantly greater Faraday rotation compared to older black holes, indicating abundant gas in the nuclear regions.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2023

Researchers find sleep delays more prevalent in countries of particular culture than others​

Researchers found that sleep patterns vary significantly across cultures and geographical locations. The study used commercially available smartwatches to collect data from over 52 million individuals in 11 countries, revealing discrepancies between self-reported data and digital logs.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

AI-guided brain stimulation aids memory in traumatic brain injury

Researchers have developed a new study showing that targeted electrical stimulation in patients with traumatic brain injury improved memory recall by 19%. The technology delivers the right stimulation at the right time, informed by the wiring of the individual's brain and that individual's successful memory retrieval.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalBrain Stimulation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 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.

Cell-to-cell diversity is key to protecting brain from neurological diseases: University of Ottawa research

A University of Ottawa study reveals that a diverse brain's ecosystem is key to maintaining normal function while responding to changes. This concept is inspired by Charles Darwin's idea that biodiversity is crucial for survival, suggesting cell-to-cell diversity helps prevent failures in brain circuits.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

NIH grant backs Rice U. lab’s sickle cell disease research

Gang Bao's lab receives a 4-year, $2.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to investigate the safety and efficacy of using gene editing treatments like CRISPR-Cas9 to treat sickle cell disease. The team aims to understand the mechanisms behind large gene modifications and their biological consequences.

SourceRice University·DateJul 18, 2023

Ethylene boosts plant yield and vigor

Researchers discovered that exposing seedlings to ethylene increases size and vigor, leading to longer roots, higher density of lateral roots, and increased aerial tissue fresh weight. The findings suggest that ethylene treatments can improve yields without sacrificing stress tolerance.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 18, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study sheds light on where conscious experience resides in brain

Scientists have identified a region of the brain where sustained visual images are retained during perception. This finding may help doctors determine whether coma patients are still aware of their surroundings and could lead to treatments for disorders of consciousness.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Scientists unravel evolutionary history of the Arctic flora

Scientists have deciphered the Arctic flora's evolution over time, discovering its roots date back to the Early Late Miocene. The study reveals a complex dispersal corridor between the Arctic and western North America, with both immigration and in situ speciation contributing to biodiversity.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

The carbon cycle is speeding up

A recent study found that warming in Northern ecosystems leads to a massive loss of carbon in the soil, with up to 40% released into the atmosphere within years after warming. The research team also discovered that plant productivity becomes nitrogen limited under warming conditions, reducing the ecosystem's ability to store carbon.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 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 to track animal of legend? Look to the poop

A team of researchers used genetic and isotopic analyses to study jaguar scat in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Preserve, revealing habitat needs and conservation insights. The study demonstrates a novel approach to surveying wildlife without direct interaction.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2023

New hope for inflammatory disorders - controlling dangerous immune response

A groundbreaking study has uncovered potential treatments for inflammatory disorders by targeting specific receptors involved in the immune response. Researchers created mimetic peptides that successfully reduced inflammation in human immune cells and provided significant protection against toxic shock in mice.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of Biomedical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Dry manufacturing process offers path to cleaner, more affordable high-energy EV batteries

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a dry battery manufacturing process that eliminates toxic solvents and improves durability. The new method enables higher energy density and better long-term cyclability, paving the way for cleaner, more affordable high-energy EV batteries.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Case Report: Intrathoracic synovial sarcoma with BRAF V600E mutation

Researchers report a case of a 15-year-old boy with recurrent intrathoracic synovial sarcoma who achieved partial response with BRAF inhibitor Vemurafenib treatment. The study highlights the importance of routine next-generation sequencing to drive treatment choice and investigate BRAF mutations in SS tumors.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCase study·DateJul 18, 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.

Efficient discovery of improved energy materials by a new AI-guided workflow

Scientists have developed an AI-guided workflow to efficiently discover novel thermal insulators. By approximating target properties and applying machine learning methods, they identified over 50 strongly thermally insulating materials, reducing the number of calculations needed by over two orders of magnitude.

SourceFritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2023

innovative wearable sensor for measuring sweat lactate levels during exercise

A novel microfluidic sweat lactate sensor has been developed to measure sweat lactate levels continuously during exercise without interruptions from air bubbles. The device uses a larger-than-usual sweat reservoir to trap air bubbles, preventing them from contacting the sensors' electrodes.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

Cell protein discovery points to healthier ageing

A protein called ATSF-1 controls a fine balance between new mitochondria creation and damaged mitochondria repair, promoting cellular health and healthy ageing. This discovery could have exciting implications for preventing mitochondrial damage and improving quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Bifacial perovskite solar cells point to higher efficiency

Researchers at NREL have developed bifacial perovskite solar cells that capture both direct and reflected sunlight, resulting in efficiencies of up to 23% on the front side and 91-93% on the back. This could lead to higher energy yields and lower costs over time.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Science language barrier could cost countless careers

A University of Queensland-led survey found non-native English speakers need up to twice as much time to conduct scientific activities, with papers rejected two-and-a-half times more. The study highlights the challenges faced by non-native English speakers in academia, which can lead to stagnated careers and a loss of potential contrib...

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 18, 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.

Study finds similar health outcomes for pregnant patients receiving in-person prenatal care or a combination of virtual and in-office visits

A large new study by Kaiser Permanente found no significant differences in health outcomes between pregnant patients receiving in-person or multimodal (virtual + in-office) prenatal care. Rates of complications like preeclampsia, severe maternal morbidity, and NICU admissions remained steady across time periods.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 18, 2023

Hidden cameras spot wildlife returning home after 2018 megafire

A recent study analyzing camera trap images found six wildlife species, including coyote and gray fox, to be remarkably resistant to the Mendocino Complex Fire's impacts. Small patches of tree cover spared by the fire provided a refuge for these animals, allowing them to recover and even spread back into burned areas.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2023

Previously unknown methan sources identified in Hamburg

A study by Technical University of Munich (TUM) has identified numerous previously undetected methane sources in Hamburg, including leaking gas pipelines and incomplete combustion. The researchers used mobile measurements and sensor networks to detect unknown emissions and quantify their impact on greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateJul 18, 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.

Staying sharp: Researchers turn to an everyday shop tool to study how materials behave

A team of researchers at Texas A&M University is developing a new method for understanding metal behavior under extreme conditions using metal cutting, a traditional manufacturing tool. The process involves shearing or deforming the metal to extreme levels under high rates and can provide fundamental information on material strength an...

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·DateJul 18, 2023

Walking the moral tightrope:

Career civil servants sought to comply with Trump administration, but faced toxic leadership and limited room for dissent. They searched for ways to uphold multiple commitments while avoiding risk of retribution or violating professional norms.

SourceHamilton College·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·TypeSurvey·DateJul 18, 2023

Researchers identify proteins associated with deadly burns

Researchers from Osaka University identified ten blood proteins associated with mortality in severe burns, including HBA1, TTR, and SERPINF2. These proteins may serve as targets for developing new treatment methods for burns, offering a promising direction for future research.

SourceOsaka University·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 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.

A new sensor shows brain cells making and then breaking contact

Researchers from Osaka University developed a fluorescent sensor to visualize Pcdh interactions in live neurons, allowing for the first time to observe dissociation of these interactions. This technique has potential applications in understanding brain disorders such as autism and epilepsy.

SourceOsaka University·JournaliScience·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

EMBARGOED: Women less likely to be routed to comprehensive stroke centers for large vessel acute ischemic stroke, according to UTHealth Houston research

A new study from UTHealth Houston found that women with large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke are less likely to be routed to comprehensive stroke centers compared to men. Despite having worse stroke symptoms and living within comparable distances, women were approximately 9% less likely to be routed to these centers.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 18, 2023

Carbon pricing disproportionately harms the elderly

A study finds that carbon pricing policies will harm the elderly, particularly those on fixed incomes, by increasing the cost of heating and cooling. The authors propose targeted social protection schemes to buffer the impacts on the elderly as the world works to mitigate climate change.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 18, 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.

Jones & Van Aken conducting stream monitoring

Researchers R. Christian Jones and Benoit Van Aken are collecting water samples in six locations in Fairfax City to analyze dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, and other key factors. The project aims to provide a long-term snapshot of the city's stream health.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJul 18, 2023

New theory developed for periodically driven quantum dots-cavity system

Researchers in China developed a new response theory to investigate light-matter interactions in semiconductor quantum dots-strongly coupled microwave photons. The new theory successfully simulated and interpreted signals in experiments on periodically driven QD-cavity hybrid systems.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 18, 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.

Lewy body disease can be detected before symptoms

Researchers at Lund University have developed a spinal fluid test to detect Lewy body disease before symptoms emerge. The study found that nearly ten percent of individuals without initial cognitive or motor difficulties had Lewy bodies in their brains, highlighting the potential for early detection and treatment.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 18, 2023

Natural hazard vulnerability shows disproportionate risk

Researchers at the University of Alabama created a detailed assessment of vulnerability to natural hazards across the continental US. The study found significant differences in vulnerability between neighboring blocks and identified top 10 states with high vulnerability rates, including Minnesota and Ohio.

SourceUniversity of Alabama in Tuscaloosa·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

Insilico Medicine scientists propose stricter standards for evaluating generative AI-produced molecules

The study evaluates recent research on artificial intelligence-generated molecular structures from the perspective of medicinal chemists, recommending guidelines for assessing novelty and validity. Insilico Medicine's recommendations aim to improve the process of generating and evaluating novel AI-generated drugs.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 18, 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.

New geometric deep learning model for detecting stroke lesions

A new geometric deep learning model called GFCN has been developed to detect stroke lesions in brain imaging scans. The model leverages rich geometric information to segment brain tissue and achieves higher segmentation performance than other neural network architectures.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateJul 18, 2023

Quantitative analysis of cell organelles with artificial intelligence

Researchers developed a convolutional neural network to identify structures in cryo-X-Ray-microscopy data, achieving high accuracy within minutes. The AI-based analysis method enables faster evaluation of 3D X-ray data sets and has potential applications in studying cell responses to environmental influences.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Aggregation-induced catalysis: Asymmetric catalysis with chiral aggregates

Researchers at Texas Tech University and Nanjing University have developed a new method for controlling chirality in asymmetric catalysis using chiral aggregates. This method, called aggregation-induced catalysis (AIC), uses the aggregation of chiral auxiliary raw materials or catalysts to achieve controlled chirality in reactions. The...

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Each mom passes unique set of breast milk antibodies to baby

A new study reveals that breast milk contains a unique set of antibodies passed from mom to baby, which can vary significantly between mothers. This variability may explain why some infants develop life-threatening diseases like NEC, while others do not.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 18, 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.

PFAS reduce the activity of immune cells

Researchers used a new method to study PFAS's impact on immune cells, finding that they significantly reduced T-cell activity and impaired the function of certain immune cells. This could lead to increased susceptibility to infections and reduced antibody production after vaccinations.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Smiles all round: clinical trial shows that a toothpaste containing synthetic tooth minerals can prevent cavities as effectively as fluoride

A clinical trial found that hydroxyapatite toothpaste is equally effective in preventing cavities as fluoride toothpaste. The study involved 189 adults who used either hydroxyapatite or fluoride toothpaste for 18 months, with no significant difference in efficacy between the two groups.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2023

Freshwater management techniques benefit both inland and coastal wetlands stressed by climate change

Researchers propose employing freshwater delivery techniques from inland wetlands to mitigate coastal salinification. Alternative water sources like treated effluent and stormwater may support riparian ecosystems in urban settings. Techniques can help restore function and resilience in the face of climate change.

SourceEcosystem Health and Sustainability·JournalEcosystem Health and Sustainability·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 18, 2023

Researchers identify new method to reverse effects of fentanyl

Researchers at Indiana University have identified a new method to reverse the effects of fentanyl, which is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Cannabidiol, or CBD, was found to behave as a negative allosteric modulator at the binding site, successfully reversing fentanyl effects in in vitro tests.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Study shows differences in how patients with heroin use disorder process drug and reward cues

Researchers found that individuals with heroin use disorder exhibited a bias towards processing drug cues, while healthy controls showed the opposite pattern. This suggests that efforts to downregulate responses to drug cues may come at the cost of amplifying responses to natural rewards.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

Japanese beetles could spread throughout Washington state in 20 years

A study found that Japanese beetles are likely to thrive in southeastern Washington and could spread throughout the region from Yakima to the Tri-Cities and north past Moses Lake. The beetles' potential dispersion is influenced by factors such as human activity and suitable habitat.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateJul 18, 2023

MUSC researchers discover novel biomarker for sepsis severity

Researchers at MUSC have identified a potential novel biomarker for sepsis, which can be predicted by the contents of extracellular vesicles in the bloodstream. This discovery could lead to more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies for sepsis patients.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJul 18, 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.

Structure of the elusive boron monoxide finally determined after 83 years

A team from Ames National Laboratory solved the structure of boron monoxide, a compound first discovered in the 1940s, using new nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods and techniques. The researchers found that the material forms nanosheets with a turbostratic arrangement.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 18, 2023

This is what relatives think about home-based hospital care

The study found that relatives have an important role in home hospitals, providing emotional support and guidance during the treatment process. Relatives reported conflicting feelings about being involved, but ultimately felt satisfied with the experience and would contribute again if needed.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateJul 18, 2023

An early breakfast may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

A study of over 100,000 participants found that eating breakfast late may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that a first meal before 8 am and an early dinner may help reduce this risk.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2023

Life on Earth didn’t arise as described in textbooks

A study by University of Copenhagen researchers challenges a 70-year-old assumption about the origins of life on Earth. They found that oxygen concentrations in ancient ocean samples were 5-10 times lower than today, contradicting previous theories that increased oxygen levels drove the evolution of more complex marine organisms.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalGeobiology·DateJul 18, 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.

Some corals may survive climate change without paying a metabolic price

New research shows certain coral species can survive climate change without suffering reduced growth or other tradeoffs when partnering with thermally tolerant algae. This finding suggests these partnerships may dominate reef ecosystems in a climate-changed future.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJul 18, 2023

Interracial relationships don’t always make people less racist

A new academic paper from Rice University and Texas A\(M g University found that interracial relationships do not necessarily end discriminatory tendencies among individuals, even those in romantic partnerships. Researchers examined existing research on close interracial relationships to see how they impacted overall attitudes about ra...

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Family Theory & Review·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

New cholera substrains in Bangladesh uncovered by genomic surveillance confirm the importance of vaccination

Researchers discovered two new cholera sublineages in a refugee population in southern Bangladesh, highlighting the importance of mass vaccination. The study used genomic surveillance to track the strains and showed that the vaccine intervention was crucial in preventing an epidemic.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

A global overview of antibiotic resistance determinants

The study identified significant differences in antibiotic resistance trends and associated factors depending on bacterial species and antibiotic resistance to certain antibiotics. High health system quality was linked to low levels of resistance, while high temperatures were associated with increased resistance in Enterobacteriaceae.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2023

Study unveils picolinic acid’s broad-spectrum antiviral abilities

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science have discovered picolinic acid's ability to disrupt viral entry into host cells, blocking enveloped viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A viruses. The compound targets a host-derived component of the virus, causing permanent damage while minimizing effects on the host cell.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJul 18, 2023

Dual wavelengths of light effective against antibiotic-resistant bacterium

A combination of far UVC and blue LED light has been shown to be effective in inactivating a wide range of microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant ESBL-Ec bacteria. The coupling of these two light wavelengths increases their effectiveness through different mechanisms of microorganism inactivation.

SourceApplied Microbiology International·JournalJournal of Applied Microbiology·DateJul 18, 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.

UC Berkeley study reveals goal-oriented rewards as key factors in decision-making

Researchers at UC Berkeley found that people's perception of value is heavily influenced by their personal goals and the context in which a decision is made. The study suggests that achieving a goal is crucial to decision-making, with potential applications in policy changes, financial decisions, education, and therapeutic strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 18, 2023

New study throws light on mechanisms underlying helicobacter pylori-induced gastric cancer

Researchers have identified the molecular mechanisms underlying gastric carcinogenesis induced by H. pylori infections, highlighting the disruption of the Wnt/PCP signaling pathway. This study provides insights into the potential target for clinical interventions against H. pylori cagA+ infections.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalScience Signaling·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

UCLA biobank study reveals disease risk, heath care use among LA’s diverse population

A new UCLA Health study analyzed genetic data from 36,000 patients to identify disease risks and healthcare utilization among ancestrally diverse groups in the Los Angeles region. The research found substantial differences in diagnoses, hospital utilization, and genetic disease rates across clusters linked by shared genetic ancestry.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 18, 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.

AI researchers have developed an algorithm to determine the properties of two-dimensional materials by analyzing their defects

Researchers developed an AI algorithm to predict the properties of new 2D materials with point defects, achieving 3.7 times greater accuracy than other machine learning algorithms. The model operates 1000 times faster than quantum mechanical computations and can handle multiple defects simultaneously.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJul 18, 2023

Unusual fossil shows rare evidence of a mammal attacking a dinosaur

A rare fossil discovered in China's Liaoning Province reveals a dramatic moment when a carnivorous mammal attacked a plant-eating dinosaur, challenging the view that dinosaurs had few threats from their mammal contemporaries. The well-preserved fossil shows the mammal gripping the jaw of the larger dinosaur and biting into its ribs.

SourceCanadian Museum of Nature·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 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.

Front cover highlights "innovative approach" of research into 2D materials

Lancaster University researchers have developed a novel scanning thermal microscopy approach to directly measure the heat conductivity of two-dimensional materials. This breakthrough enables the creation of efficient waste heat scavengers generating cheap electricity, new compact fridges, and advanced optical and microwave sensors and ...

SourceLancaster University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

The cost of being a non-native English speaker in science

Research reveals non-native English speakers need up to twice as much time to read and write papers, with 2.5 times higher rejection rates for papers written in English. This disproportionately affects early career stage researchers from lower income countries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeSurvey·DateJul 18, 2023

Concentration of cell membrane components with nanocarbon materials

Research discovered lipids concentrate on graphene oxide in cell membrane models, revealing a mechanism for lipid domain formation. The findings have implications for concentrating and separating lipids and membrane proteins, essential for medicine and drug discovery.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

Termites as cause of fairy circles in Namib Desert confirmed

Researchers confirm termites as cause of Namib Desert fairy circles, refuting the self-regulation hypothesis. The study found that sand termites eliminate plants in sandy soils, enabling long-lasting water storage after infrequent rainfall.

SourceMIN-Faculty Universität Hamburg·JournalPerspectives in Plant Ecology Evolution and Systematics·DateJul 18, 2023

Detecting nanoplastics – in fractions of a second

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a measurement method to detect individual nanoplastic particles, orders of magnitude faster than previous techniques. The new technique uses Raman scattering and an extremely fine gold grid to amplify the light signal, allowing for rapid detection even at low concentrations.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 18, 2023

Study identifies how diabetes slows healing in the eye

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have identified two disease-associated changes to the cornea in diabetes patients that delay wound healing. The study proposes three therapeutic pathways that reversed these changes and partially restored wound-healing function, offering new potential treatments for diabetes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalDiabetologia·TypeNews article·DateJul 18, 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.

Safe train transport

Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers reconstructed crude oil transport paths by linking geotagged images with national railway networks. The study found that these inferred routes aligned with approximately 96% of documented incidents, highlighting potential risks along rail routes.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJul 18, 2023

Luther studying forest fragmentation & climate change

Researchers study the impact of climate change on bird populations in fragmented forests, assessing effects of microclimate variation and temperature changes on survival and reproduction. The team analyzes dietary specialization, stress, and behavioral adaptations to understand how these factors affect bird demographic responses.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateJul 18, 2023

New MenB vaccine heralds use of genetic vaccines to combat bacterial diseases

Scientists have developed a vaccine candidate that protects children from Meningococcal group B (MenB), which can lead to severe infections like meningitis and sepsis. The vaccine uses an existing platform to produce a protective protein, showing strong and long-lasting protection in mice.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

Droplet levitation is a new way to explore airborne viruses and microorganisms

Millimeter-sized droplets can be levitated for long periods using solutocapillary convection within a pool of silicone liquid, allowing researchers to study the activity of viruses and microorganisms in airborne aerosols. This phenomenon has potential applications in microbiology and biochemistry.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 18, 2023

Progressing undetected for years

Researchers at the University of Montreal found that movement circuits in mice brains are insensitive to dopamine levels, contradicting initial hypotheses. This discovery could lead to new approaches to reduce Parkinson's disease symptoms by identifying mechanisms involved in dopamine secretion.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 18, 2023

3D/4D printed bio-piezoelectric smart scaffolds for next-generation bone tissue engineering

Researchers developed bio-piezoelectric smart scaffolds for next-generation bone tissue engineering, demonstrating potential for clinical applications. The scaffolds can reconstruct desired tissue EM through non-invasive ultrasonic stimulation, promoting cell adhesion and osteogenic differentiation.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 18, 2023

IU-developed statewide initiative shows primary care clinicians can diagnose autism in young children with high accuracy

A new study led by Indiana University School of Medicine researchers shows that primary care clinicians who receive specialized training can make accurate autism diagnoses for over 80 percent of young children referred with developmental delays. The EAE Hub system, a statewide network providing training and collaborative learning, has ...

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 18, 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.

It’s sewage, not fertilizer fueling nitrogen surge in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon

A recent study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that sewage is the primary cause of nitrogen surges in the Indian River Lagoon, contradicting previous findings that fertilizer use was the main contributor. The study found that water quality and harmful algal blooms worsened after five years of mandatory wet season fertilizer blac...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Prenatal health care outcomes before, during pandemic

A multimodal prenatal health care model combining in-office and telemedicine visits performed adequately compared with traditional in-office only prenatal health care, supporting its continued use after the pandemic. The study of 151,000 pregnant individuals found similar health outcomes for both models.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 18, 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.

Antipsychotic drugs work differently than scientists believed

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that antipsychotic drugs interact with a different neuron type than scientists originally believed, which could lead to better treatments for schizophrenia. The study's findings suggest that the effect of antipsychotics on dopamine receptors has little bearing on their efficacy in humans.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

Virtual rehabilitation program for seniors with frailty shows promise, according to McMaster-led research

A McMaster-led research study found that a virtual rehabilitation program for seniors with frailty was highly adhered to and showed improvements in mobility and quality of life. The study's results suggest that virtually delivered care is an alternative to in-person programs, potentially helping prevent decline in bodily functions.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPilot and Feasibility Studies·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2023

Sylvester, Dana-Farber researchers to receive funding to study how diet, exercise impact mental and physical functioning in older cancer survivors

A $7 million PCORI-funded study will examine the effectiveness of supervised and unsupervised exercise-and-diet interventions in pairs of older cancer patients and their caregivers. The five-year study aims to improve mental and physical functioning as well as physical activity and diet.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·DateJul 18, 2023

Turning waste heat into energy

The team created a thermocell using a hydrogel that reacted to temperature changes, converting latent heat into electricity. This breakthrough supports the idea that various materials can be used for thermoelectric conversion, potentially reducing reliance on other energy sources and improving cooling systems.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

The legacy of past disturbance shapes coastal forest soil stability

A soil transplant experiment found that soils with a history of salinity and inundation are more resistant to changes in water properties and movement. The study suggests that disturbance legacies shape coastal forest soil responses to changing salinity and inundation, varying across landscapes.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2023