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Science News for June 20, 2023


A Space: Science & Technology study advances numerical research for optimizing micronozzle performance

Researchers optimize micronozzle design through numerical simulation and design optimization to improve thrust force and specific impulse. The study finds that wall heat transfer, convergence duct design, throat shape, and expander structural parameters significantly affect nozzle performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateJun 20, 2023

New details about the strongest spider silk in the world

Scientists have studied the internal parts of spider silk using an optical microscope without cutting it open. The analysis revealed that the fiber consists of at least two outer layers of lipids and numerous fibrils running in a straight, tightly packed arrangement. Understanding how to create such strong fibers is crucial for produci...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 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.

Outcome indicators make quality of life after childhood cancer measurable

Researchers developed outcome indicators to measure health issues in children with cancer, allowing for improvement in care and treatment. The indicators consider physical, psychosocial, and neurocognitive outcomes, providing a clear and comparable measurement of quality of survival.

SourcePrincess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology·JournalNature Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJun 20, 2023

Media coverage of climate change research does not inspire action

A study analyzed 50,000 scientific publications on climate change and found that media coverage often focuses on large-scale projections and threats, rather than solutions. This selective approach can lead to public disengagement and denial, emphasizing the need for a more transdisciplinary and solution-focused approach in media coverage.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateJun 20, 2023

Topological bulk BICs enable compact, single-mode, and beam-engineered QCLs

Researchers developed an electrically-pumped compact topological bulk laser for single-mode emission and cylindrical vector beams. The device utilizes band-inverted topological band edges that support high quality factors, enabling miniaturization and single-mode laser emission.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJun 20, 2023

Research pilot sets the stage for better, more equitable aortic stenosis care

The study analyzed data from 15 hospitals nationwide and found that nearly half of patients with symptomatic severe AS received transcatheter aortic valve replacement, while about 36% did not receive any treatment. The program aims to address healthcare disparities in AS care by identifying best practices for treating the disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 20, 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.

Patient-led intervention first to successfully address multiple difficult symptoms in dialysis patients

A new patient-guided intervention using telemedicine has been shown to improve symptoms of fatigue, pain, and depression in dialysis patients. The Technology Assisted Stepped Collaborative Care (TĀCcare) trial found significant improvements in energy levels and pain severity that persisted for six months after treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2023

Pangolin the inspiration for medical robot

Researchers created a robot inspired by pangolins' ability to curl up into a ball, with a soft layer and hard metal components. The robot can emit heat when needed and transport particles like medicines, making it promising for minimally invasive medical procedures.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 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.

Company culture shapes willingness of workers to act sustainably, research shows

A nationwide study found that social and organizational factors play a critical role in shaping sustainable behaviors among employees. Employees are more likely to act sustainably at work if they feel supported by their company and coworkers. The study also uncovered a link between eco-friendly behaviors and higher job satisfaction, su...

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalCurrent Research in Ecological and Social Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateJun 20, 2023

Alps: Light­ning activ­ity dou­bled in a few decades

The European Eastern Alps have seen a doubling of lightning strikes over the past four decades, with the highest changes occurring in high-altitude areas. Climate change is driving this trend, as rising temperatures fuel more thunderstorms and lightning.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalClimate Dynamics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2023

UK's young people at risk of leaving school without vital knowledge of reproductive health, study finds

A new study found significant gaps and variations in UK schools' curricula for sexual and reproductive health, with important topics like endometriosis and miscarriage missing. The research suggests better education is crucial for young people to understand their reproductive systems and make informed decisions about their lives.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalHuman Fertility·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2023

Evidence of the amino acid tryptophan found in space

Researchers found high amounts of tryptophan in a nearby star-forming region using data from the Spitzer space observatory. The presence of this protein-building agent in the gas and dust from which stars form suggests it may be common in planetary systems.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 20, 2023

Less-invasive cardiac MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool in the early evaluation of patients with acute chest pain

A new study from researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine reveals that cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe and accurate tool to evaluate complex patients. Cardiac MRI reduced the need for invasive angiography over the long-term follow-up period, making it a highly reliable first-line testing option.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Imaging·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Research identifies factors that make correcting misinformation about science more successful

A meta-analysis of 60,000 participants found that corrections are more successful when issues are emotionally positive, match ideology, and provide abundant details. However, polarized misinformation proves harder to correct, with corrections failing twice as often.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 2023

Intranasal CRISPR psychotropics

A study reports a CRISPR/Cas9 delivery system that reduces anxiety-related behavior in mice by modulating neuronal receptor pathways. The treatment, delivered through the nose, shows a 35.7% increase in time spent in light areas and a 14.8% decrease in marble burial compared to controls.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 20, 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.

Brands beware! Even loyal customers distance themselves after socially unacceptable mentions of the brand on social media

A new study published in Journal of Marketing finds that consumers become motivated to distance themselves from brands after observing socially unacceptable social media mentions. Consumers with stronger self-brand connections experience vicarious shame, driving their desire to disengage from the brand.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 20, 2023

An amino acid essential for life is found in interstellar space

Researchers have detected tryptophan, an amino acid crucial for protein formation, in the interstellar medium of the Perseus Molecular Cloud. This discovery suggests that amino acids, building blocks of life, may be present in the gas surrounding young stars and potentially accelerate the emergence of life.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 20, 2023

When a rat smells a rat

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have discovered a pheromone that reduces fear in rats, which could lead to more humane methods of pest control. The researchers found that this pheromone, 2-methylbutyric acid, can calm both lab and wild rats, reducing their fear responses.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Cholesterol lures in coronavirus

A recent study unveiled the doorway that SARS-CoV2 uses to slip inside cells undetected. Cholesterol clusters make up this door, allowing the virus to infect human cells. Regular exercise and mechanical force can disrupt these cholesterol aggregates, reducing the risk of infection.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Electing progressives with patriotism, family, and tradition

A study found that framing progressive policies with values like patriotism, family, and tradition increases support among conservatives and moderates. However, this approach may not be effective for liberals, who already tend to favor redistributive policies.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 20, 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.

See-through squid lets scientists study cephalopod nervous system

Researchers successfully engineered an albino strain of the hummingbird bobtail squid, offering clear optical access for visualizing its nervous system. This breakthrough presents Euprymna berryi as a viable candidate for a model cephalopod, enabling scientists to study complex animal behavior and unlock secrets of biology.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine article decodes patterns of pneumoconiosis among miners

The study analyzed historical data on coal miners in China, revealing a strong correlation between raw coal production, mining technology, and CWP incidence. The researchers identified key turning points in disease incidence, linked to changes in diagnostic criteria and labor management, as well as coal industry policy reforms.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal - Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 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.

Prediction tool developed to determine benefit of blood cancer treatment

Researchers have created a new prediction tool to evaluate the benefits of blood cancer treatments, filling a gap in previous versions. The ESMO-MCBS:H v1.0 tool uses a validated algorithm to assess clinical benefits, survival data, and quality of life, providing a transparent assessment for clinicians.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateJun 20, 2023

Fish farms can become biogas producers

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that fish farm waste can be converted into biogas, reducing waste and generating nutrients for plants. The biogas can power the aquaponic farm, making it a sustainable energy source.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAquacultural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Helping define the impact of “art” in education

Expert researcher Brian Kisida investigates the relationship between arts education and student success, finding that students involved in arts programs enjoy school more, are more engaged, and happier. The study aims to inform policy makers on decisions about public education.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateJun 20, 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.

Locating executive functions in fish brains

Research suggests that guppies with enlarged telencephalon exhibit improved cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and working memory. The study found that up-selected fish performed better than down-selected fish in tasks requiring self-control and delayed gratification.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 20, 2023

Lasers enable internet backbone via satellite

Researchers demonstrated terabit optical data transmission through the air in a European Horizon 2020 project, enabling more cost-effective and faster backbone connections via near-earth satellite constellations. The team used laser systems to transmit high-data rates over a free-space distance of 53km.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJun 20, 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.

Chemiluminescent carbon nanodots for dynamic and guided antibacteria

Researchers developed chemiluminescent carbon nanodots (CDs) that exhibit excellent in-vivo imaging quality and bacteriostatic rate against various bacteria. The CDs can be used as activatable imaging agents for inflammation-related ROS detection and have potential applications as nanomedicine for antibacterial treatments.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJun 20, 2023

Environmental risks and opportunities of orphaned oil and gas wells

Researchers estimate that plugging documented orphaned wells in the US will exceed $4.7 billion by 30-80% and may not cover undocumented wells. The study analyzed data from over 80,000 documented wells and found that over 4.6 million Americans live near these wells.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 20, 2023

New study weighs the universe's supermassive black holes

A recent study suggests that supermassive black holes at the center of large galaxies grew in size over billions of years, challenging previous estimates. The research, led by astrophysicist Joseph Simon, used computer simulations to predict the masses of massive black holes, revealing a diverse range of sizes across the universe.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 20, 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 climate change impacts on seagrass meadows

A new Stanford University study models the distribution of seagrass species around the world at two different timepoints in the future, predicting widespread reductions in species diversity and composition under all scenarios. The research highlights the need for more intentional conservation efforts and emphasizes that even the curren...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 20, 2023

THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH: Prolonged rise in eating disorders and self-harm among adolescent girls in the UK following the COVID-19 pandemic, best evidence to date suggests

A nationwide study in the UK found a significant rise in eating disorders and self-harm among adolescent girls between March 2020 and March 2022. The rate of eating disorder diagnoses was 42% higher than expected, with 3,862 observed cases compared to 2,713 projected cases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 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.

Dupilumab lessens disease in COPD patients with type 2 inflammation

COPD patients treated with dupilumab experienced rapid and sustained improvements in disease, as measured by reduced acute exacerbations, better lung function, and improved quality of life. This is the first biologic to show clinical outcomes improvement in COPD.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2023

Exploring the deep connections between adolescent sleep and overall health

Research by Fiona Baker of SRI's Human Sleep Lab highlights the deep connections between adolescent sleep and overall health. Studies have shown that poor sleep patterns can affect brain development, weight gain, cognitive decline, and socioemotional difficulties in adolescents.

SourceSRI International·JournalSleep Health·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2023

When it comes to COVID-19, belly fat upsets the apple cart

Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that apple-shaped obesity is associated with cytokine storm and a higher risk of death in COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that obese patients with excess belly fat may benefit from anti-inflammatory therapies, including IL-6 blockers.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 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.

Prior dengue infection may make Zika virus outcomes worse

Researchers at Trudeau Institute and Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that prior dengue infection can worsen Zika virus outcomes during pregnancy. Pregnant marmoset monkeys infected with dengue passed significantly more Zika virus to their fetuses than those without dengue, suggesting a link between the two viruses.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 20, 2023

One in five women become pregnant naturally after having a baby conceived with IVF

A new study led by UCL researchers found that at least one in five women conceived naturally after having a baby conceived with IVF. This figure remained unchanged even when considering different types and outcomes of fertility treatment. The study analyzed data from 11 studies involving over 5,000 women worldwide.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 2023

Developing rice varieties resistant to a bacterial disease outbreak in Africa

Scientists have developed disease-resistant rice varieties to combat a devastating bacterial outbreak in Tanzania and potentially other African countries. The new lines, created using advanced breeding techniques, show broad-spectrum resistance against Xoo bacteria strains, offering hope for increasing yields and food security.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournaleLife·DateJun 20, 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.

Women without children at age 35 are at highest risk of binge drinking, alcohol use disorder

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that women who turned 35 in recent years and those without children are most at risk of excessive alcohol consumption. The study's findings highlight the need to address unhealthy drinking habits among middle-aged women, particularly those without children.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAddiction·TypeSurvey·DateJun 20, 2023

Study: Microtargeting works, just not the way people think

Researchers ran survey experiments to assess the effectiveness of microtargeting in politics, finding that targeted ads can be 70% more persuasive than general campaigns. However, using multiple attributes for targeting did not add further benefit, suggesting a 'one ad does not fit all' approach.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2023

Novel way to manipulate exotic materials

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a novel method to transform normal insulators into magnetic topological insulators using electric fields. This breakthrough could lead to high-speed, low-power electronics with reduced energy consumption.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·Journal2D Materials·DateJun 20, 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.

Walkable neighborhoods help adults socialize, increase community

A study published in Health & Place found that walkable neighborhoods foster social interactions with neighbors, promoting a sense of community. Researchers analyzed data from 1,745 adults living in Seattle, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., revealing that these environments encourage active behaviors like walking and socializing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalHealth & Place·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2023

Open-source software to speed up quantum research

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed open-source software, SuperConga, to explore new superconducting properties and advance quantum computing. The program operates at the mesoscopic level, enabling simulations that can 'pick up' the strange properties of quantum particles.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2023

Modeling early heart failure could help researchers develop new treatments

Researchers developed a more accurate model of human cardiac fibrotic tissue, which could enable quicker drug testing and potentially lead to new therapies for heart failure. The model, built using an electrospinning technique, recreates the unique aspects of scarred cardiac tissue.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateJun 20, 2023

New study reveals irrigation’s mixed effects around the world

A recent study analyzed over 200 previous studies to assess the impact of irrigation on regional climates and environments. The researchers found that while irrigation supplies 40% of the world's food, it also has significant effects on regional climates and environments, with some areas being already unsustainable or verging on scarcity.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateJun 20, 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.

Metformin's role in preventing metabolic syndrome during androgen deprivation therapy: a Phase II study

A randomized phase II study found that adding metformin to androgen deprivation therapy did not reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome or improve PSA response in patients with advanced prostate cancer. Metformin showed some antitumor effects through mTOR inhibition, but these were not significant.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2023

Penguin propulsion: The physics behind the world’s fastest swimming birds

A team of researchers from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences developed a hydrodynamic model to study penguin wings' propulsion physics. The model reveals that wing feathering is the main factor in generating thrust, allowing penguins to swim efficiently and maneuver swiftly.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 20, 2023

Pusan National University researchers develop new adsorbent for removing radioactive cesium ions from nuclear wastewater

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a new adsorbent that utilizes problematic protons in acidic wastewater to enhance the removal of radioactive cesium ions. The adsorbent, potassium calcium thiostannate, shows improved capacity under strongly acidic conditions.

SourcePusan National University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Hidden mechanism connects cancer and diabetes

Researchers have found a hidden mechanism connecting cancer and diabetes, where cancer cells don't respond well to insulin, leading to faster cancer growth. Insulin resistance can also cause muscle loss and strength decline in cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalActa Oncologica·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 20, 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.

Photon-counting CT noninvasively detects heart disease in high-risk patients

A new ultra-high-resolution CT technology has been developed to detect coronary artery disease in high-risk patients, providing a potentially significant benefit for people previously ineligible for noninvasive screening. The technology delivers excellent image quality and accurate diagnosis with high sensitivity and specificity.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 20, 2023

Should I stay or should I go: Hospital germ’s dual strategy

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered that Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a 'division-of-labor' strategy to colonize surfaces and spread through the body. This dual strategy allows the bacteria to increase its surface colonization success and resist antibiotic treatments.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 20, 2023

Screening newborns for deadly immune disease saves lives

Widespread newborn screening for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) has increased the five-year survival rate from 73% to 87%, with 92.5% of children surviving five years or more after treatment. The study, led by NIAID, demonstrates that early identification and prompt treatment have saved countless lives.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 20, 2023

A new type of atomic nucleus discovered in the Accelerator Laboratory of the University of Jyväskylä belongs to the rarest naturally occurring element

Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä have produced a previously unknown atomic nucleus, 190-Astatine, which decays via alpha particles. The discovery is significant for understanding the structure of atomic nuclei and the limits of known matter.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalPhysical Review C·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 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.

Breast cancer research team pulls in $3 million in national support

A team of researchers at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center has received a $3.07 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to develop new drugs targeting microtubules for breast cancer treatment. The goal is to improve overall survival and quality of life for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Health Science Center·DateJun 20, 2023

Scientists show way to mitigate extreme weather events

Researchers at RIKEN have demonstrated a method to prevent severe weather events by inducing small perturbations in the Lorenz 96 model. This approach utilizes the inherent chaos in weather systems to limit extreme events, which become more common due to climate change.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNonlinear Processes in Geophysics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2023

Community spaces may promote healthy aging for rural Black, Hispanic adults

New research found that social infrastructure in rural communities can provide essential support to older, non-white adults. This study highlights the importance of community spaces in promoting healthy aging among Black and Hispanic older adults, who are disproportionately affected by loneliness and mental health issues.

SourcePenn State·JournalRural Sociology·DateJun 20, 2023

Cuttlefish brain atlas first of its kind

A team of scientists has created the first-ever brain atlas of the dwarf cuttlefish, a master of camouflage. The atlas maps the animal's 32-lobed brain structure and cellular organization, providing valuable insights into its remarkable ability to change skin color in response to visual stimuli.

SourceColumbia University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 20, 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.

Sustainability of a 12-month lifestyle intervention delivered by community health workers in reducing blood pressure in Nepal: 5-year follow-up of an open-label, cluster randomised (COBIN) trial

A 12-month lifestyle intervention led by community health workers reduced systolic blood pressure in Nepal. However, a 5-year follow-up found that the benefit was not maintained, with blood pressure rising again after the intervention ended. This highlights the need for ongoing education and follow-up to prevent potential harm.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2023

USPSTF recommendation on screening for anxiety disorders in adults

The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for anxiety disorders in older adults. Anxiety disorders are commonly occurring mental health conditions often unrecognized in primary care settings, leading to substantial delays in treatment initiation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 2023

Machine learning helps researchers identify hit songs with 97% accuracy

Researchers applied machine learning to brain responses and achieved near-perfect classification accuracy for songs that may become hits. The approach, called 'neuroforecasting,' uses data from a small group of people to predict population-level effects without needing to measure the brain activity of hundreds of people.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Artificial Intelligence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2023

New research shows promising results for the development of a nonsurgical treatment for degenerative rotator cuff injury in the elderly

A novel study found that honokiol promotes healing of rotator cuff injury and may be an effective treatment for humans. The study suggests that SIRT3 activation plays a protective role in alleviating aging-induced fibrocartilage degeneration and promoting rotator cuff healing.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

A protein helps HIV remain silent

Researchers identified a molecule that allows HIV to hide in reservoirs within CD4+ T lymphocytes. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor protein plays a crucial role in viral latency and has shown potential as a good therapeutic target.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 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.

Engineers earn grant to protect military bases against EV-based attacks

Researchers at University of Nebraska-Lincoln are working on safeguarding US military base entry points against EV threats, focusing on high-speed ramming and zero-to-60 acceleration. The team will employ digital simulations and physical crash tests to refine barriers designed to withstand such impacts.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·DateJun 20, 2023

Novel intrinsic transport effect unlocks potential nonlinear applications

A team of SUTD researchers discovered a novel intrinsic nonlinear planar Hall effect, proposing a mechanism to characterize novel materials and their complex behaviors. This effect could lead to new designs in nonlinear rectifiers or terahertz detectors for long-range communications.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 20, 2023

Modeling human behavior for autonomous vehicles

A computational psychological model predicts subtle behaviors in real traffic, such as hesitating before crossing and speeding up to deny pedestrians a crossing opportunity. The model accurately simulates 32 pairs of participants interacting as driver and pedestrian in a driver-pedestrian simulator.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 20, 2023

Xylazine appears to worsen the life-threatening effects of opioids in rats

A new NIH study suggests xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer, can damage brain oxygen levels when combined with opioid drugs like fentanyl and heroin. This combination may lead to prolonged brain oxygen decreases, increasing overdose risk. Researchers hope to develop interventions to reverse overdoses and save lives.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateJun 20, 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.

SRI seeks to learn how insects speak through smells

Researchers at SRI International have identified genes that enable insects to produce terpenes, a key component of their chemical communication. This breakthrough provides a roadmap for understanding how these chemicals are used and could lead to new ways to protect crops and prevent insect-borne diseases.

SourceSRI International·JournalProtein Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2023

Precious1GPT: multimodal transfer learning for aging clock development and target discovery

Researchers developed Precious1GPT, a multimodal transformer-based approach for aging clock development and feature importance analysis. The model utilizes methylation and transcriptomic data to predict biological age and identify disease-related genes, providing a pathway for therapeutic drug discovery.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 20, 2023

Researchers identify new biomarkers of the most frequent lung cancer

The study found that fiber straightness is a potential biomarker for diagnosing non-small cell lung cancer, while density is a poor prognostic indicator. The researchers also discovered abnormal stiffening of tissues in tumor samples, which may be related to immune system response and tumor progression.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalModern Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Computational mid-infrared photothermal imaging unveils intracellular tau aggregates

A new technique, FBS-IDT, enables high-resolution imaging of intracellular tau aggregates in their native environments. It demonstrates potential correlations between tau fibrils and lipid accumulation, offering a cost-effective solution for neurodegeneration research.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJun 20, 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.

Social contact may help preserve brain function in later life

A study found that social isolation is associated with a decrease in hippocampal volume, poorer cognitive performance, and an increased risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer's dementia. Conversely, maintaining a healthy social network can help preserve brain structure and function.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateJun 20, 2023

Exercise may induce strokes for people with blocked arteries

Researchers found that exercise-induced heart rate can cause plaque in moderately to severely blocked carotid arteries to migrate and halt blood flow to the brain. This can lead to ischemic stroke. The authors recommend checking arterial health regularly for people doing intense workouts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 20, 2023

Observations of high-mass star seeds defy models

Researchers mapped 39 interstellar clouds to understand high-mass star formation. They found over 800 stellar seeds that will evolve into stars, but only 1% have enough mass to become high-mass stars.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 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.

A Tongan volcano plume produced the most intense lightning rates ever detected

The Hunga Volcano eruption in Tonga created a plume that reached altitudes of up to 25 miles, producing the most intense lightning rates ever detected. The plume expanded outward as an umbrella cloud, creating fast-moving circular ripples and donut-shaped rings of lightning.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2023

What role does alternative splicing play in neurodegenerative disease?

Alternative splicing expands the diversity of proteins and contributes to molecular pathology in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. Dysregulation leads to aberrant protein production, affecting neuronal health and function.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 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.

Adapting to climate change: Researchers find natural gene variant that allows barley to flower earlier

Scientists have identified a natural gene variant in barley that enables plants to flower up to 18 days earlier, allowing for improved adaptation to climate change. This discovery could lead to the development of climate-resilient barley varieties with stable yields.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

Restoring the blood-brain barrier?

Researchers developed a new therapeutic molecule that activates WNT signaling to restore the blood-brain barrier's normal function. The treatment showed promise in treating conditions such as multiple sclerosis and ischemic stroke by reducing the severity of strokes and improving survival rates.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2023

Modern horses have lost their additional toes, scientists confirm

Scientists analyzed hoof prints and foot bones from modern horses to discover what happened to the lost digits. The team confirmed that the distant ancestors of modern horses had hooved toes instead of a single hoof, which vanished over time.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2023

Self-driving revolution hampered by a lack of accurate simulations of human behavior

Researchers have developed a simulation of how people behave on roads based on cognitive theories, accurately reproducing pedestrian and driver behaviors in common scenarios. The model predicts complex underlying cognitive mechanisms that contribute to the difficulty in creating self-driving vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 2023

Focus on function helps identify the changes that made us human

Scientists used CRISPR interference to study gene function in human and chimp stem cells, discovering genes essential for cell cycle regulation that are absent in humans. This approach sheds light on the evolution of human brain development and highlights the importance of studying gene interactions over DNA sequences.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateJun 20, 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.

Going back to school after traumatic brain injury – experts review the issues

Leading researchers discuss challenges associated with return to school for children and adolescents with TBI, highlighting the need for improved educator training and communication. Strategies for improving quality of life and outcomes are recommended by experts in this themed issue.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 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.

Wonderful and weird

Ferroelectric materials like hafnia show promise for non-volatile random-access memory (RAM) due to their stability at high temperatures. Hafnia's unique properties, including the movement of oxygen vacancies, make it an attractive candidate for memristors that mimic brain-like computer architectures.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 20, 2023

The speed of life: a zoo of cells to study developmental time

Researchers compared developmental time across six species, including humans and mice, to find that embryonic duration is a key factor. They also discovered correlations between evolutionary history and segmentation clock periods.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

The Good Fight: Advance in flexible photodetector could improve monitoring of greenhouse gases

Researchers have developed flexible photodetectors that can detect visible to long-wave infrared radiation, covering the full spectrum of greenhouse gases without complex optical components. The new detectors are simple and cost-effective to make, with production at room temperature.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023

How good or evil are you when gaming?

A study by Macquarie University researchers explores how players respond to morality meters in games, showing that most ignore clear moral choices but use them when ambiguous. The research provides insights into the impact of morality meters on player behavior and has implications for moral education and awareness.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2023