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Science News for June 16, 2023


Racial disparities in lung cancer screening among veterans

A recent study reveals lower lung cancer screening rates among Black veterans, underscoring the need for further research into barriers to screening and evidence-based interventions. The findings suggest that demographics alone do not fully explain these disparities.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 16, 2023

Disorient the malaria parasite to prevent it from causing harm

Researchers at UNIGE have identified a new type of molecular sensor that enables the malaria parasite to infect human cells or mosquitoes at just the right moment. By understanding how this sensor works, scientists can potentially scramble its signals to disorientate the parasite and block its multiplication and transmission.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateJun 16, 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.

ASU study: Jupiter’s moon Europa may have had a slow evolution

A recent ASU study suggests that Jupiter's moon Europa may have formed with a slow evolution, which could impact its habitability. The team found that a metamorphic origin for the ocean and delayed metallic core formation may limit hydrothermal activity and seafloor volcanism.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 16, 2023

New research shows HIV can lie dormant in the brain

Researchers have found that microglial cells in the brain can serve as a stable viral reservoir for latent HIV. This discovery provides new insights into how to target and eradicate the virus, particularly in the brain or peripheral blood.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 16, 2023

Abnormalities in neurodevelopment could lay the foundations for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that the amyloid precursor protein (APP) regulates human neurogenesis, which could be linked to Alzheimer's disease. APP promotes a balance between stem cell proliferation and differentiation, suggesting its disruption may cause premature neurogenesis and cellular stress.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

From cross to self-pollination

Researchers found evidence for a modifier gene in sand cress that can lead to loss of self-incompatibility and acquisition of self-pollination. The study challenges current understanding of this process and opens up new avenues for research on plant breeding systems.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2023

Complexity is a barrier to horizontal gene transfer

Researchers investigated factors influencing horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in bacteria, finding that divergence and protein connectivity interact to limit its success. The study supports the Complexity Hypothesis, suggesting that newly transferred genes struggle to engage in normal protein-protein interactions.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 16, 2023

The use of genomic sequencing panels to personalise cancer treatment is beneficial in only 5% of the patients in whom they are currently used

A study by CNIO Breast Cancer Clinical Research Unit shows that genomic sequencing panels are beneficial in 5% of patients, increasing treatment efficacy and patient survival. The use of these panels is recommended for patients with metastatic lung, colon, or melanoma cancer, or those participating in clinical trials.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 16, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Research hints at how fungus farming ants keep their gardens healthy

Researchers discovered that ants sniff out diseased fungus by detecting chemicals called peptaibols, which are produced by the fungus. This finding suggests that the ants may be responding to a disease of their beneficial symbiotic partner rather than their own body, highlighting an extended defense response.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023

Fossil study sheds light on famous spirals found in nature

A 407-million-year-old plant fossil has overturned thinking on the evolution of leaves and revealed a new perspective on Fibonacci spirals in plants. The research, published in Science, found that ancient clubmosses developed non-Fibonacci spiral patterns, diverging into two separate evolutionary paths.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 16, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Jefferson Lab outreach efforts earn national recognition

The virtual field trip event, developed to renew public engagement despite pandemic limitations, was recognized with three Anvil Awards and a Pinnacle Award. The event featured a live virtual tour, Q&A sessions, and downloadable activities.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJun 16, 2023

Uncovering a cellular process that leads to inflammation

Researchers uncover cellular process that triggers inflammation, a vital immune response that can also lead to chronic inflammation and diseases like Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. By targeting this pathway, they hope to find treatments to curb chronic inflammation.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023

Major step forward reduces mortality in kidney failure patients

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that high-dose haemodiafiltration reduces mortality in kidney failure patients by 23%. The CONVINCE trial compared two treatments and showed that wider use of high-dose haemodiafiltration would have clear benefits for patients.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 16, 2023

Alcohol and smoking to blame for premature deaths among night owls, 37-year study suggests

A 37-year study in Finland found that evening types have a slightly increased risk of dying compared to morning types, primarily linked to smoking and drinking habits. The study tracked nearly 23,000 twins and found that lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption and smoking status, play a significant role in mortality rates.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalChronobiology International·TypeObservational study·DateJun 16, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New insights on bacteria that causes food poisoning

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered the transfer of pathogenic genes within bacterial cells of genus Providencia, offering new insights into infection routes and prevention strategies for food poisoning. The findings are published in Infection and Immunity.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalInfection and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023

AI could replace humans in social science research

Researchers discuss how AI can adapt and reinvent social science research practices to harness the power of large language models. The study explores novel opportunities for testing theories and hypotheses about human behavior at great scale and speed.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScience·DateJun 16, 2023

Dads are key in supporting breastfeeding, safe infant sleep

The study found that fathers who supported their partners' breastfeeding goals had higher rates of successful breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Fathers were also more likely to implement safe sleep practices when they received guidance on infant sleep safety. However, racial disparities in safe sleep practices persist, with Bl...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 16, 2023

USTC explored gravity's effect on quantum spins

A joint USTC research group investigated the coupling effect between neutron spin and gravitational force using a high-precision xenon isotope magnetometer. The experimental results revealed that the weight difference between the neutron's spin-up and spin-down states was less than two sextillionths.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 16, 2023
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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

The global human day – A bird’s eye perspective

A study by McGill University found that humans spend approximately 9 hours on human-centered activities, such as sleep, eating, and personal care. Economic activities, including work and trade, account for only about 2.6 hours of the average day.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 16, 2023

Wider search needed to improve outcomes for eosinophilic food allergy

A clinical trial found that benralizumab effectively depleted eosinophils, but it did not alleviate symptoms or improve gut tissue health in patients with eosinophilic gastritis. The study's findings suggest a new therapeutic target for eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases and highlight the need to reconsider remission definitions.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 16, 2023

Study finds combustion from gas stoves can raise indoor levels of chemical linked to a higher risk of blood cell cancers

A new study by Stanford University finds that gas stoves can raise indoor levels of benzene, a chemical linked to leukemia and other blood cell cancers. The researchers found that exhaust fans often ineffective at eliminating benzene exposure, and concentrations measured in bedrooms can exceed national health benchmarks.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 16, 2023

CityU researchers invent a low-temperature synthesis method for high-quality tellurium nanomesh for next-generation electronics

A collaborative team led by City University of Hong Kong researchers invented a low-temperature vapour-phase growth method to produce large-scale synthesis of semiconducting tellurium nanomesh. The new method enables the scalability and cost-effectiveness of nanomesh for next-generation electronics.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

ACQUIRE therapy framework shows results for intensive pediatric rehabilitation

A recent study published in Behavioral Sciences demonstrates the effectiveness of ACQUIRE Therapy in improving functional outcomes for children with various motor impairments. The framework provides a standardized approach to intensive therapy, emphasizing the importance of therapists' dynamic awareness and adaptability.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBehavioral Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 16, 2023

For resistant breast cancers, two drugs may be better than one

Researchers discovered that cancer cells can adapt to novel CDK2 inhibitors in as little as one to two hours, but adding a second drug can squelch this workaround. Combining CDK2 inhibitors with existing drugs may treat resistant breast cancers more effectively

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCell·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 16, 2023

Plant life determines soil bacteria diversity in the Arctic tundra

Research in the Arctic tundra reveals that plant life determines soil bacteria diversity. Changes in vegetation due to climate change are expected to impact generalist and specialist bacteria populations. The study's findings provide insights into Arctic ecosystem functioning and predictions of future environmental changes.

SourceResearch Organization of Information and Systems·JournalEnvironmental Microbiome·DateJun 16, 2023

Fathers key to supporting breastfeeding and safe infant sleep

Fathers play a significant role in breastfeeding initiation and safe infant sleep practices, with notable disparities between White and Black fathers. Researchers emphasize the need for targeted interventions to increase safe sleep practices in the Black community and for fathers' engagement in breastfeeding discussions.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 16, 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.

When is migration successful adaptation to climate change?

A new study evaluates the success of migration as adaptation in the face of climate change. The research highlights trade-offs between well-being, equity and sustainability for migrants and their households. It suggests that creating an enabling policy environment is crucial to support successful migration as adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 16, 2023

New technologies reveal the impact of circular economy on threatened species such as the Egyptian vulture

Researchers tracked Egyptian vultures with GPS transmitters, showing differences in food strategies between breeding and non-breeding individuals. Closing landfills may lead to scarcity of resources for these birds, prompting calls for conservation efforts that support extensive livestock farming.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMovement Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 16, 2023

Tracing the evolutionary origin of cognitive flexibility

A neuroscientific team mapped the brain's response to changing conditions, revealing a critical role for sensory regions in decision-making. The study, published in Nature Communications, suggests that cognitive flexibility evolved early in the development of the brain, with similarities observed between humans and mice.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Brain modelling used to identify necessary circuits of consciousness

The study identified two relevant circuits in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC), including the thalamo-frontotemporal region and the posterior cortical region. These findings bring a new understanding of brain networks and could improve diagnosis and treatment for people suffering from DoC.

SourceHuman Brain Project·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateJun 16, 2023

New imaging technique is no last resort

Researchers created a new method, RESORT, to image and analyze living systems in unprecedented detail. The technique combines benefits of super-resolution fluorescence and vibrational imaging, allowing for high spatial resolution and analysis of complex interactions.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023

Adagrasib effective for patients with KRAS G12C-mutant lung cancer and untreated brain metastases

Researchers found adagrasib effective in suppressing cancer growth in both lungs and brain metastases, with a 90% intracranial disease control rate and 42% objective response rate. The median intracranial progression-free survival was 5.4 months, while the median overall survival reached 11.4 months.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 16, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Removing barriers to commercialization of magnesium secondary batteries

Researchers at KIST have developed a chemical activation strategy that enables efficient operation of magnesium batteries in common electrolytes. The technology reduces overpotential and increases Coulombic efficiency, enabling stable charging and discharging cycles.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 16, 2023

Revolutionary new method can manipulate the shape and packing of DNA

Researchers have developed a new method to manipulate the shape of double-stranded DNA, known as triplex origami, which can create compacted structures with unique properties. This breakthrough has implications for gene therapy, nanoscale materials engineering, and our understanding of biological processes.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 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.