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Science News for July 28, 2023


Blood test may reduce risk of disability in kids

Researchers developed a blood test to detect nerve injury in MS and found it works for children, even when symptom-free. The test measures neurofilament light chain levels, which reflect nerve cell injury.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJul 28, 2023

Trends in alcohol-related deaths by sex

A recent study found a significantly higher rate of increase in deaths among female individuals due to alcohol-related causes. The findings underscore the importance of investigating specific factors contributing to this trend.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 28, 2023

New method enabling therapeutical targeting of lactate transporters

Scientists have developed a new assay system to target lactate transporters SLC16A1 and SLC16A3, associated with certain cancers and diseases. The method enables the discovery of highly selective inhibitors, providing a potential new approach for cancer treatments.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJul 28, 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.

It worked in the Caribbean – What about here?

Researchers from dfusion, West Virginia University and UMass Chan Medical School develop a customizable digital platform to deliver an effective sexual health education program tailored to Caribbean youth in the US. The adapted program, FOYC+ImPACT U.S., will be scalable across diverse Caribbean community settings.

SourceDfusion (United States)·DateJul 28, 2023

Cell biology: How cellular powerhouses call for help when under stress

A team of researchers from Goethe University Frankfurt has discovered a central switch point in the mitochondrial signaling chain under misfolding stress. The mitochondria send two chemical signals to the cell when protein misfolding stress occurs, triggering a protective response that reduces misfolded proteins and stabilizes membranes.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Last experiments of the Aeolus satellite for TROPOS before re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere

The Aeolus satellite is conducting a controlled reentry, involving extensive scientific experiments led by the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS). Key findings include tests on vertical winds and the ATLID lidar, which will be replicated on the EarthCARE satellite.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·TypeObservational study·DateJul 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Redefining treatment for mild cognitive impairment

A new phase II clinical trial will investigate the effectiveness of an accelerated course of transcranial magnetic stimulation in improving symptoms for patients with mild cognitive impairment and depression. The study aims to identify the optimal dose of stimulation needed to improve both depression and thinking difficulties in MCI, w...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateJul 28, 2023

Researchers identify a potential therapeutic target against cirrhosis and liver inflammation

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have discovered a new therapeutic target, RNF41 protein, which plays a crucial role in controlling chronic liver disease. The study found that enhancing RNF41 expression in macrophages can reduce fibrosis and liver inflammation, leading to improved liver regeneration.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Gene editing improves grain quality and reduces heat stress in rice

Researchers at the University of Arkansas successfully used gene editing to reduce 'chalkiness' in rice, a condition caused by heat stress. The modified rice lines showed a significant improvement in grain quality, with increased starch granule compactness and reduced chalkiness.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalThe Plant Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 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.

Total recall on HIV

Researchers at Kyoto University successfully synthesized the structure of Lancilactone C, a rare anti-HIV compound. The team's method revealed an incorrect initial structure and showed that electrocyclization occurs in both synthesis and biosynthesis, leading to potential development of novel antivirals.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Unlocking a mystery of fetal development

Researchers at Rutgers University analyzed urine samples from pregnant women to understand how the placenta regulates cadmium exposure. They found that as cadmium levels increased, free testosterone levels decreased, suggesting a link between cadmium and fetal brain development.

SourceRutgers University·JournalToxics·TypeSurvey·DateJul 28, 2023

Circadian clock gene helps mice form memories better during the day

Researchers found that Period 1 gene becomes more active in memory-forming region of brain in daylight hours after learning, playing crucial role in consolidating memories. Mice exhibit improved daytime memory performance compared to nighttime.

SourcePenn State·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 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.

Novel Raman technique breaks through 50 years of frustration

A novel Raman technique called thermostable-Raman-interaction-profiling (TRIP) allows for label-free and highly reproducible Raman spectroscopy measurements, breaking a 50-year-old challenge. The TRIP method enables the detection of protein-ligand interactions in real-time, potentially shortening drug and vaccine testing timelines.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2023

New record of highest elemental superconducting transition temperature achieved

A research team at USTC has achieved a new record high superconducting transition temperature of 36 K in elemental materials under high pressure. The study reveals that the structure of Scandium plays a crucial role in its high Tc, which is closely related to its phase diagram at high pressures.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 28, 2023

Uncovering how the Golgi apparatus impacts early postnatal neuron development

The study found that the Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in initiating dendritic refinement through neuronal activity, particularly with the NMDAR receptor. The researchers observed changes in Golgi polarity and dendrite shape when NMDAR signal or Golgi polarity was interrupted.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 28, 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.

NASA research on sustainable aviation receives phase 2 funding

Researchers developed novel power, energy, and configuration systems for a zero-emissions aviation future using cryogenic liquid hydrogen as an energy carrier. They achieved efficiency of over 98% and demonstrated the feasibility of superconducting technology at ultra-low temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateJul 28, 2023

A divide & conquer approach to leads-to model checking for large-scale systems

Researchers developed a divide & conquer approach to leads-to model checking, mitigating the state explosion problem and improving performance. The technique, DCA2L2MC, divides the reachable state space into smaller sub-state spaces, making it feasible for large-scale systems.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology·DateJul 28, 2023

The approaches to achieve high-performance wearable sensors with hydrogels

Researchers explore techniques to enhance mechanical and electrical performance of hydrogel sensors, enabling harsh environment resistance, human skin compatibility, and intelligent data processing. Hydrogels' toughness and conductive capabilities make them suitable for wearable electronics applications.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 28, 2023

Is it a healthy day in the neighborhood?

Researchers will survey residents of two Louisville neighborhoods to identify features that promote health and well-being. The project aims to create a 'universal basic neighborhood' that has all necessary community assets to help residents thrive.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateJul 28, 2023

New study finds the prealbumin gene alone is insufficient for diagnosis of heart failure

A new multi-center study found that having a genetic variant in the prealbumin gene alone is not sufficient for diagnosing transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy in older Black patients. Researchers suggest that a blood test measuring prealbumin levels may be useful in identifying patients at risk of developing cardiac amyloidosis.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 28, 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.

USTC unveils 3D structure and molecular mechanism of platelet drug transporter ABCC4

The study reveals the molecular mechanism by which ABCC4 recognizes broad-spectrum substrates, providing a structural basis for rational design of platelet antagonists targeting ABCC4. The research also elucidated the molecular mechanism of ABCC4 in binding and transporting platelet agonists and antagonists.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateJul 28, 2023

New study findings underscore the importance of timely newborn screenings in early care for cystic fibrosis

A new study published in The Journal of Pediatrics highlights the importance of timely newborn screenings in early care for cystic fibrosis. Late diagnosis can negatively affect short- and long-term growth and health outcomes in infants with cystic fibrosis, according to the research.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2023

3D display could soon bring touch to the digital world

Researchers have created a one-of-a-kind shape-shifting display that can generate scrolling text and fast enough to shake a chemistry beaker. The device uses soft robotic muscles that sense outside pressure, pop up to create patterns, and could potentially deliver the sense of touch in a digital age.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2023

A wearable ultrasound scanner could detect breast cancer earlier

Researchers at MIT developed a wearable ultrasound device that can detect breast cancer in early stages, reducing the risk of late-stage diagnosis. The device, attached to a bra, allows users to image breast tissue from different angles and is portable, easy to use, and provides real-time monitoring.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 28, 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.

HKU Engineering team uses diamond microparticles to create high security anti-counterfeit labels

A team of researchers developed a pioneering technological solution using diamond-based anti-counterfeiting labels with unique Physically Unclonable Functions. The labels can be scanned using a phone, making them highly suitable for commercial products, and are extremely tough and cheap to produce.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Retina cell breakthrough could help treat blindness

Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University have successfully grown retinal pigment epithelial cells on a nanofibre scaffold treated with fluocinolone acetonide, showing increased resilience and growth. This breakthrough technology has great potential for developing ocular tissue transplantation to treat age-related macular degeneration.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalMaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

KAIST presents a microbial cell factory as a source of eco-friendly food and cosmetic coloring​

Researchers at KAIST have developed microbial cell factories that can produce a variety of food and cosmetic compounds, including natural pigments, flavors, and functional compounds. These eco-friendly alternatives can help address global food shortages and environmental concerns.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Reviews Bioengineering·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 28, 2023

Screening tests for dense breasts—AI, mammography, ultrasound

A commercial AI tool did not provide additional benefit to mammography with supplementary ultrasound in patients with dense breasts. Mammography with supplementary ultrasound showed higher accuracy, specificity, and lower recall rate compared to AI alone or combined with US.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 28, 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.

Researchers reveal a powerful platform for studying high-entropy alloy electrocatalysis

A collaborative research team created an experimental platform to control the atomic-level structure of high-entropy alloy surfaces and test their catalytic properties. Their study found that the surfaces performed better in oxygen reduction reactions compared to other materials, indicating a 'pseudo-core-shell-like structure' contribu...

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2023

Imaging shows how solar-powered microbes turn CO2 into bioplastic

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a multimodal platform to image solar-powered microbes, enabling the study of energy conversion pathways and the potential for improving efficiency. The platform revealed the functional roles of hydrogenases in driving CO2 fixation and electron transport.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 28, 2023

New research highlights risks of selective adaptation in extreme coral habitats

Scientists discover reduced genetic diversity and compromised skeletal properties among 'super corals' adapted to mangrove lagoons. The study challenges existing notions surrounding the resilience of these resilient corals, highlighting potential risks for future environmental stressors.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJul 28, 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.

Study explores the influence of social networks on oral health outcomes

The study found that network-level variables significantly improved model fit and displayed strong independent associations with oral health outcomes. Network proportion needing dental treatment was positively associated with current dental treatment needs, while exposure to reported dental visits decreased odds of no recent dental vis...

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJDR Clinical & Translational Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2023

A nanoprobe developed for visual quantitative detection of pesticides

Researchers developed enzyme-free fluorescence probes for visual detection of carbamate and organophosphorus pesticides, achieving low detection limits and expanding chemical-sensitive luminescent materials' applications in environmental protection and food safety.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJul 28, 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.

How breast milk boosts the brain

A recent study by Tufts University researchers found that myo-inositol in human breast milk increases synaptic connections between neurons, indicating stronger brain connectivity. This finding could lead to improved infant formulas and better brain health outcomes for adults with certain psychiatric conditions.

SourceTufts University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2023

Crowd control

Researchers found that confined epithelial cells regulate their size and cell cycle separately, suppressing growth but not division length. The team used lab-grown tissue to observe how cells respond to confinement, revealing a new framework for understanding tissue development and growth.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 28, 2023

Citizen science inspires kids to take local action

A citizen science program led by North Carolina State University researchers inspired Girl Scouts to tackle environmental problems in their communities. The study found that the program not only taught girls about science but also motivated them to take action.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Education Research·DateJul 28, 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.

Unique Mexican black and pinto bean varieties are high in healthy compounds

A University of Illinois study found unique Mexican black and pinto bean varieties to be high in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The research also identified potential applications for the seed coat extracts in the food industry and cosmetics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFood Research International·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2023

The structures of six states of a rotary sodium ion pump are revealed

Researchers reconstructed six states of a rotary sodium ion pump using cryo-electron microscopy. The study found non-uniform rotation behavior due to structural interference between the rotor and stator components. This reveals a unique molecular mechanism of the rotary sodium ion pump.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 28, 2023

How atomic nuclei vibrate

Researchers at Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf have measured the wave-like vibration of atomic nuclei with record-breaking precision, confirming the accuracy of quantum theory. The study also explores the possibility of a new fundamental force between protons and deuterons in connection with Dark Matter.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 28, 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.

Polystyrene upcycling

A new method called Degradation Upcycling (Deg-Up) recovers aromatic chemicals from polystyrene waste in a two-step process. This approach produces valuable chemicals for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, offering a circular plastics economy solution.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Alternative cellular ‘fuels’ boost immunity

A recent study published in Immunity has found that ketone bodies, produced by the liver during fasting or low glucose levels, power immune cells and improve T cell function. This discovery may pave the way for personalized dietary recommendations to augment treatments for infection, cancer, and other diseases.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 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.

Study looks at Achilles' heel of insulin pump technology

A recent study found that patients with type 1 diabetes using insulin pumps for extended periods do not exhibit significantly more pathology in their skin compared to short-term users. Despite this, researchers still struggle to understand the underlying causes of skin damage and inflammation at infusion sites.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeObservational study·DateJul 28, 2023

Selectivity effect of molecular chirality may have universal applications, researchers find

A team led by Takuro Sato found that the chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect can filter out electrons and molecules with specific chirality, enabling enantioselectivity without chiral catalysis. This discovery has broader applications in producing safer chemicals and developing advanced electronics across various scales.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Curved post-garnet phase boundary may explain puzzled subducting slabs and upwelling plumes

A team of scientists has precisely determined the temperature dependence of a mantle mineral's phase transition pressure, revealing a curved post-garnet phase boundary that accelerates upwelling plumes and decelerates subduction. This discovery could explain puzzling seismic observations in the upper part of the lower mantle.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

What nap times reveal about your child’s brain development

A study of 463 infants aged 8-36 months found that those with smaller vocabularies and poorer cognitive skills nap more frequently. Reducing naps for these children may not improve brain development, suggesting a need to re-evaluate sleep recommendations.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJCPP Advances·TypeSurvey·DateJul 28, 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.

Research points to potential new medical therapy for Lyme disease

Researchers at UMass Amherst have discovered a potential new medical therapy for Lyme disease using lactate dehydrogenase inhibitors typically used to combat cancer. The study found that these inhibitors substantially impacted Borrelia burgdorferi growth, making them promising candidates against Lyme infections.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023

Machine learning: artificial neural networks localize extrasystoles

Researchers from KIT developed a non-invasive method to localize ventricular extrasystoles using deep learning and convolutional neural networks. The approach achieved accurate localization in 82% of clinical cases, potentially transforming the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalArtificial Intelligence in Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2023

Mutation accessibility fuels influenza evolution

The 'survival of the accessible' model provides an alternative explanation for evolutionary changes in flu viruses, highlighting the importance of mutational bias and variant accessibility. The research reveals how specific mutations can gain or lose function, influencing protein activity and potentially driving pandemics.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 28, 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.