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Science News for June 19, 2023


Sewage to sustenance: Making reclaimed water ready for crops

Researchers at the University of California - Riverside have developed a low-cost technology using biochar to remove harmful compounds from reclaimed water, making it safe for agricultural reuse. The biochar-based polishing systems have shown promising results in removing antibiotics and resistant bacteria, potentially reducing the spr...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 19, 2023

Was warfare responsible for the fall of small-scale societies?

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub found that periodic outbreaks of warfare can account for boom-bust patterns in population dynamics of early farming societies. The study suggests that social conflict played a crucial role in shaping the population dynamics of these societies, contrary to previous assumptions that climate chang...

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 19, 2023

AI reveals hidden traits about our planet's flora to help save species

A new machine learning algorithm analyzed high-resolution digital images of herbarium specimens, revealing that factors other than climate have a strong effect on leaf size within a plant species. The study also demonstrates how AI can be used to transform static specimen collections and quickly document climate change effects.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 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.

Green technology permits total use of seaweed by cosmetics industry

A review article proposes zero-waste methodologies to convert 100% of marine macroalgae (seaweed) into cosmetics ingredients using industrially available green technology. This enables the cosmetics industry to meet environmental sustainability and ESG requirements, while leveraging the potential of Brazilian seaweed.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhycology·DateJun 19, 2023

Low-dose aspirin use associated with 20% increased anemia risk in older adults

A post-hoc analysis of the ASPREE trial found that low-dose aspirin was associated with a 20% increased incidence of anemia and decline in ferritin levels in healthy older adults. The study recommends periodic monitoring of hemoglobin for patients taking aspirin.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 19, 2023

Face of Anglo-Saxon teen VIP revealed with new evidence about her life

Researchers have reconstructed the face of a 16-year-old woman buried near Cambridge with an incredibly rare gold and garnet cross, revealing she moved to England from Central Europe as a young girl. Analysis shows that her diet changed significantly after arrival, indicating a short and challenging life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·DateJun 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.

New discovery set to boost disease-resistant rice

A new gene variant, RBL1, has been identified in a type of rice that can be modified to improve performance without yield penalties. This breakthrough could lead to more disease-resistant rice crops with high yields, addressing a major threat to the industry and meeting growing global demand.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023

Brain receptor patterns separate sensory and cognitive networks, new study finds

A comprehensive dataset of neurotransmitter receptors has been made publicly available, revealing potential role in distinguishing internal thoughts and emotions from external influences. The study's findings have exciting implications for understanding brain function and developing new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023

Supersized fruit eater database on climate change frontline

A supersized database of over 45,000 traits tracks the behavior, distribution, and life patterns of fruit eaters and birds in Central and South America. The Frugivoria database provides crucial insights into their role in maintaining forest composition and health.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJun 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.

Short-term exposure to PM₂.₅ increases hospital admission risks and costs in China

A recent study found a positive association between short-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and increased hospital admissions, length of stays, and associated costs in all major diseases. The study's findings suggest that improved air quality since 2013 saved CNY2.28 billion in medical expenses in 2017.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlobal Transitions·TypeCase study·DateJun 19, 2023

Low-dose aspirin may increase anaemia risk in healthy older adults: study

A new study analyzing data from the ASPREE trial found that prolonged daily aspirin use increases the risk of anaemia by 20 per cent in people mostly aged 70 and over. Regular monitoring for anaemia should be considered for older adults taking low-dose aspirin.

SourceMonash University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 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.

How does transport stress affect intestinal health in animals?

Studies found that transport stress can cause weight loss, immunity damage, and reduced productivity in animals. The enteric nervous system plays a key role in regulating the effects of transport stress on intestinal health.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023

Astronomers propose novel method of measuring galaxy distances

Astronomers have proposed a new method for measuring the distances of galaxies, utilizing double-period RR Lyrae (RR Lyr) stars. The study, published in Nature Astronomy, aims to improve the accuracy of distance measurements by leveraging the unique properties of these stars.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJun 19, 2023

Weak policies and political ideologies risk jeopardizing plans to tackle health and climate change, says Cambridge expert

A Cambridge expert argues that politicians' neglect of evidence hampers plans to tackle health and climate change in the UK. The expert suggests two changes could mitigate this issue: engaging citizens more in policy-making and increasing politician accountability through legally binding systems.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience and Public Policy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 19, 2023

A holistic approach to addressing food security in Africa

The article discusses the growing challenge of food security in Africa, particularly with regards to rice production and consumption. The research reveals that socioeconomic developments have a more substantial influence on rice availability than gradual climate change, but climatic anomalies pose a significant threat to stability. Div...

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Food·DateJun 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.

A new tool to study complex genome interactions

Researchers developed Genome Architecture Mapping (GAM) to study DNA interactions, revealing novel three-dimensional configurations that were invisible to Hi-C. This technique provides a more comprehensive understanding of genome organization and its impact on health and disease.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 19, 2023

Decoding the secrets surrounding platelet production

A new research group led by Zoltan Nagy is working to understand megakaryocyte development and maturation. The team will use single-cell RNA sequencing to identify key factors controlling platelet production, with the goal of improving platelet counts for transfusions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateJun 19, 2023

Women biomedical inventors underrepresented on patents

A study found that more than 60% of female first authors are not included as inventors on patents, while male first authors have a higher inclusion rate. The research highlights a gender gap in patent inclusion, with senior female authors also underrepresented.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 19, 2023

Bridging traditional economics and econophysics

Researchers from Complexity Science Hub highlight similarities in models used by economists and physicists to analyze financial markets. The study aims to create an overview of these models, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and avoiding research that gets lost in translation.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalJournal of Economic Interaction and Coordination·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 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.

Portfolio optimization methods for highly volatile assets: challenges and solutions

A new study introduces a minCluster portfolio optimization method specifically designed for highly volatile markets, including cryptocurrencies. The method consistently outperforms traditional approaches and considers downside risk to find the best asset allocation.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Finance and Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 19, 2023

Potential NMR-based wettability index for rocks

Researchers in China have developed a new NMR-based wettability index for rocks, utilizing magnetic susceptibility contrast and internal gradient measurements. This method enables accurate assessment of wettability in complex reservoirs like tight oil and shale oil formations.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalMagnetic Resonance Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023

A program that looks for the most effective drugs for each patient’s cancer helps to personalise cancer treatments

The PanDrugs2 programme analyzes alterations in tumour genes, relates them to existing available drugs, and reports on the most suitable ones. It handles data on over 4,600 genes and 14,600 chemical compounds, generating information on around 74,000 associations between drugs and genes.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 19, 2023

Trojan horse polymers for a circular economy

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a novel strategy for making recyclable polyolefins by introducing masked double bonds, known as 'Trojan horse' functional groups. These polymers can be chemically deconstructed and re-polymerized without losing quality.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 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.

Here comes the sun

A recent study suggests that songs with high energy and positive emotions are more likely to match prevailing weather conditions, influencing listener preferences. The research found a strong association between energetic and positive music and warm and sunny weather, but only for popular songs.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 19, 2023

Digital artifacts boost internationalisation of platform businesses

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland explores how digital-based start-ups can leverage digital artifacts for early and rapid internationalisation. The research model provides a toolkit to identify opportunities for companies to adapt their digital services to international markets.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·DateJun 19, 2023

Regular napping linked to larger brain volume

A new study published in Sleep Health found that habitual daytime napping is associated with a larger total brain volume, a marker of good brain health linked to lower risk of dementia and other diseases. The research team used Mendelian randomisation to establish a causal link between napping and brain health.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalSleep Health·DateJun 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.

Hairy cells: How cilia’s motor works

Researchers used cryo-electron tomography to study the dynein motor protein, revealing new details about how it generates force and coordinates with other proteins. This knowledge may help develop treatments for diseases related to cilia dysfunction, such as fertility issues and lung disease.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023

Assessment of how climate scientists communicate risk shows imperfections, improvements

A study by climate experts reveals that while some aspects of sea level rise risk assessment have improved, others remain imperfect, particularly in conveying 'unquantifiable' uncertainties. Improvements in language and graphics are being incorporated into climate reports, informing civic leaders to counter rising seas effects.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 19, 2023

Clean, sustainable fuels made ‘from thin air’ and plastic waste

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a solar-powered reactor that captures CO2 from industrial processes or directly from the air and converts it into sustainable fuels. The technology also uses plastic waste, converting it into glycolic acid and other valuable chemical products.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJoule·DateJun 19, 2023

Unlocking the potential of enantioselective catalysis: advancements in pyrrolidinyl gold(I) complexes explored through DFT and NEST analysis of the chiral binding pocket

Researchers employ DFT and NEST analysis to investigate pyrrolidinyl gold(I) complexes, revealing enhanced understanding of electronic and steric effects. The findings facilitate the design of novel chiral ligands for enantioselective reactions.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalJACS Au·DateJun 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.

Cognitive behavioural therapy for mothers may improve future mental health for infants: study

A McMaster University study found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for new mothers can lead to adaptive changes in infant brain functioning and reduce post-partum depression symptoms. The study tracked 73 pairs of mothers and babies undergoing PPD treatments between 2018 and 2020.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 19, 2023

Nucleoside analogs for messenger RNA metabolic labelling and sequencing

Researchers developed a novel method using nucleoside analogs to label and sequence messenger RNA, allowing for the tracking of dynamic changes in cellular gene expression. This approach enables researchers to investigate transcripts over time and gain insights into cellular biological processes.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFundamental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023

A secret sibling of fat cells could hold new clues to understanding fat’s role in cardiometabolic diseases

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen discovered a new type of fat cell called SWAT cells that provide structural integrity to adipose tissue. These flexible cells can differentiate into various types, including fat cells and progenitor cells, suggesting a crucial role in adapting to metabolic conditions.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Metabolism·DateJun 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.

“Predatory bacteria” provide hope for chlorine-free drinking water

A study by Lund University researchers discovered that predatory bacteria, like Bdellovibrio, grew in number and consumed other bacteria when chlorine was removed from drinking water. This finding suggests that efficient filtration systems can reduce the need for chlorine, offering hope for a chlorine-free future.

SourceLund University·Journalnpj Clean Water·DateJun 19, 2023

Trillionths of a second: Photon pairs compress an electron beam into short pulses

Scientists at University of Konstanz have developed a method to compress an electron beam into short pulses using femtosecond light flashes. The resulting electron pulses exhibit temporal superposition and can be used to study ultrafast phenomena in quantum mechanics, including the interaction between electrons and light.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 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.

De facto decriminalization of drug possession reduces the overall arrest toll on the Black community, although racial disparities persist

A new study finds that de facto decriminalization of drug possession in Baltimore led to significant reductions in low-level drug-related arrests, mainly among the Black community. However, racial disparities persisted, with the ratio of street arrests in Black residents increasing after the policy change.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 19, 2023

Leukemia spread fueled by messenger particles

Researchers found that leukemia cells use messenger particles to navigate and release molecular cargo at distant sites, driving cancer metastasis. A potential therapeutic strategy involves targeting these particles with an antibody drug that blocks E-selectin activity.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·DateJun 19, 2023

Women's strategic concealment of LGBTQ+ affinity

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that women are more likely to hide their LGBTQ+ affiliation when they expect discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. This behavior is linked to the experience of gender-based discrimination and the expectation of unequal treatment.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalEuropean Economic Review·TypeObservational study·DateJun 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.

Organic light-emitting diodes: Making the blue shine brighter and longer

Researchers from KIT developed a new strategy for producing highly efficient and stable deep-blue organic light-emitting diodes. The new molecule exhibits dual-channel intra-/intermolecular exciplex emission, resulting in high external quantum efficiency of 20.35% and luminance of 5000 cd/m2.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 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.

The neurons capable of cooling down inflammation in fat tissue

A new study reveals that neurons expressing steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) influence inflammation in white and brown adipose tissue. SF1 neurons help suppress inflammatory responses in inguinal WAT, but not in epididymal WAT, and activate thermogenic activity in BAT.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2023