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Science News for March 10, 2023


Returning solar panel production to US speeds decarbonization

Domestic solar panel manufacturing in the US can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% and energy consumption by 13% compared to international trading partners. By 2050, US-made solar panels will be more efficient, reducing carbon footprint by 33% and using 17% less energy.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2023

New research in JNCCN highlights the negative impact of continued exclusion of racial groups from research on cancer genomics

A recent study published in JNCCN found that the lack of genomic research for people with African ancestry is hindering efforts to reduce disparities in prostate cancer outcomes. The researchers evaluated molecular genetic results for 113 Black South African men diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, identifying 17 pathogenic and pot...

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateMar 10, 2023

Discovery of oldest known fossil gnat shows how insects adapted to a postapocalyptic world

A team of scientists discovered a new genus and species of ancient gnat fossils in Mallorca, Spain, dating back to the early Middle Triassic period. The fossil, found near the harbor of Estellencs, shows how insects adapted to a post-apocalyptic world after a mass extinction event that wiped out over 80% of species.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalPapers in Palaeontology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 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.

Surprising similarities in stone tools of early humans and monkeys

Researchers have discovered unexpected similarities between stone tools used by monkeys and some of the earliest hominin stone artifacts. The findings suggest that accidental production of stone fragments during nut cracking may hold clues to the origin of intentional tool use in early humans.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 10, 2023

Sub-picosecond magnetization reversal in rare-Earth-free spin valves

Scientists have demonstrated a breakthrough in manipulating magnetic materials without using magnetic fields, paving the way for ultra-fast and energy-efficient memories. The researchers achieved sub-picosecond magnetization reversal in rare-earth-free spintronic structures, expanding the bandwidth of common devices.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 10, 2023

Dim lights before bedtime to reduce risk of gestational diabetes

A new study suggests that pregnant women who have dimmed lights and screens for three hours before sleep are less likely to develop gestational diabetes. Dim light exposure before bedtime may help regulate glucose levels, reducing the risk of this common pregnancy complication.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 2023

Experiment unlocks bizarre properties of strange metals

Researchers in Japan used a synchrotron to create gamma rays that revealed unusual fluctuations in the electrical charge of a strange metal alloy. The study provides insight into the inner machinery of these materials, which could inspire new forms of electronic matter and high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 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.

pMINFLUX, graphene energy transfer and PAINT for nanometer 3D super-resolution microscopy

Researchers developed a new method combining pMINFLUX microscopy with graphene energy transfer, enabling axial precision of less than 3 angstroms. This allows for the study of molecular structures and dynamics at the nanoscale, fundamental for understanding cellular biomolecular reactions.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMar 10, 2023

Microbes can create a more peaceful world: Scientists call to action

A team of microbiologists proposes using powerful microbial technologies to reduce global and local challenges leading to conflict, including food supply security and pollution. The authors advocate for deploying these technologies to address humanitarian crises and advance Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceApplied Microbiology International·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 10, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Simultaneous climate extremes a risk to global societies and systems: Study

A new study found that future incidents of simultaneous climate extremes will be exacerbated by human-driven climate change, with the strongest increases in tropical regions. Increasing concurrent temperature extremes will weaken tropical ecosystems' ability to act as carbon sinks, amplifying global climate change.

SourceGriffith University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 10, 2023

γ-MnO2 dual-core, pair-hole fiber for ultrafast photonics

The γ-MnO2 dual-core pair-hole fiber enables the production of an all-fiber mode-locked laser with a pulse width of about 1 ps and a repetition frequency of about 600 MHz. This fabrication scheme offers good stability and is suitable for combining other novel materials with specialty fibers, expanding ultrafast optics and sensing appli...

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

How will phosphorus cycle influence carbon uptake in china?

Researchers found that phosphorus limitation decreases global and Chinese carbon sink strength by 7-16% by 2030s. The positive feedback between net primary productivity and soil decomposition amplifies this impact in China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 10, 2023

Northern and southern resident orcas hunt differently, which may help explain the decline of southern orcas

A new study reveals that northern and southern resident orcas differ in their hunting behaviors, with males catching more salmon per hour than females. Southern resident males outperform females by 152%, highlighting a distinct pattern of foraging that may contribute to the population decline.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBehavioral Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 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.

Wayne State researcher publishes new research to bring Brillouin microscopy closer to widespread use in diagnostic medicine

Researchers have improved Brillouin microscopy to acquire mechanical images of cells and tissues at speeds 50-100 times faster than existing methods. This innovation enables the investigation of cell behaviors in real-time, with potential applications in cancer diagnosis and embryonic tissue development.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalNature Methods·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 10, 2023

Looking for risky viruses now to get ahead of future pandemics

Researchers suggest a four-part framework to identify animal viruses that may infect humans, focusing on viruses from repeat offender families and those with known human compatibility. By studying these viruses early, scientists can develop diagnostic tools and treatments, and be better prepared to combat future pandemics.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateMar 10, 2023

High-speed super-resolution microscopy via temporal compression

Researchers developed temporal compressive super-resolution microscopy (TCSRM) to overcome optical diffraction's spatial resolution restriction. TCSRM achieves high-speed imaging at 1200 frames per second with a spatial resolution of 100 nanometers, enabling observation of fast dynamics in fine structures.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateMar 10, 2023

Meta-analysis shows association between autism in children and cardiometabolic diseases

A meta-analysis of 34 studies found a significant association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and increased risks of developing diabetes, dyslipidemia, and heart disease. Children with ASD were more likely to develop these metabolic complications, prompting clinicians to monitor them closely.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 10, 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.

Migratory birds take breaks to boost their immune system

Researchers found that migratory birds can restore several parameters of their immune function during stopovers, not just to refuel. This discovery suggests that these short breaks are essential for the birds' overall health and immune system.

SourceLund University·JournalBiology Letters·DateMar 10, 2023

Family’s participation key to advancing diabetes research

A study of one family with monogenic diabetes reveals that insulin deficiency is the principal factor leading to a smaller pancreas. The Vanderbilt University Medical Center researchers discovered this through precise measurements of the pancreas taken from four family members.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMar 10, 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.

New study challenges our understanding of the immune system

A recent study from Aarhus University reveals that B cells can be activated by antigens that only bind one receptor at a time, challenging the long-held model of immune recognition. This discovery holds promise for designing more effective vaccines and treating autoimmune diseases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

New platform allows researchers to listen in on cell-cell crosstalk

A new platform allows researchers to study cell-cell interactions in inflammatory neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). By identifying genes that control biologic processes, the team hopes to develop therapeutics to change disease-promoting cell behavior.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience·DateMar 10, 2023

Cause of leukemia in trisomy 21

Children with Down syndrome are highly vulnerable to developing aggressive leukaemia due to a defect in the RUNX1 gene, which regulates blood cell formation. Researchers have identified a specific variant of the gene that promotes leukaemia development and discovered potential therapeutic approaches to correct this malfunction.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 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.

Sea temperatures control the distributions of European marine fish

An analysis of European marine fish found temperature to be a key driver of large-scale spatial variation in fish assemblages. By 2050 and 2100, the study predicts the greatest community-level changes will occur at locations with greater warming, particularly further north.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 2023

Some stirring required: fluid mixing enables scalable manufacturing of soft polymer structures

The new technique allows for the production of a dozen different soft polymer material morphologies, including ribbons, nanoscale sheets, rods, and branched particles. By precisely controlling three sets of parameters during manufacturing, researchers can fine-tune the morphology of polymeric materials at the micro- and nano-scale.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

Earth Map works in tandem with its users to achieve a more conscious, climate-aware and environmental-friendly world

Earth Map provides users with intuitive remote sensing data and enables a broader range of actors to take an active role in monitoring lands impacted by human activities. The tool aims to inform decision-makers about the current state of climate and resource management, driving meaningful policy changes and sustainable livelihoods.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalNational Remote Sensing Bulletin·TypeCase study·DateMar 10, 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.

Remarkable squirting mussels captured on film

Cambridge researchers observe Unio crassus mussels squirting water jets up to a meter away from the riverbed to increase the chances of their larvae attaching to specific host fishes. This behavior has never been seen in any other mussel species and may be crucial for the endangered species' survival.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalEcology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 2023

How to assemble a complete jaw

A USC-led team of scientists identified the key gene Nr5a2, essential for opening up genome regions that enable neural crest cells to form tendons and salivary glands. Zebrafish and mice lacking this gene exhibited skeletal and tendon defects, as well as failed salivary gland development.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

MSU-led international research network welcomes new Ibero-American partner to advance nuclear astrophysics

The International Research Network for Nuclear Astrophysics (IReNA) has partnered with the Ibero-American Network of Nuclear Astrophysics (IANNA) to enhance knowledge in nuclear astrophysics. The new collaboration will enable researchers from both networks to access cutting-edge technology and combine their expertise, resources, and ac...

SourceMichigan State University Facility for Rare Isotope Beams·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 10, 2023

The perils of bacteria’s secret weapons

A recent study highlights the perils of bacteria's secret antimicrobial resistance, which can be difficult to detect using traditional methods. Researchers are exploring new approaches, such as genetic analysis, to identify and prevent the spread of these resistant strains.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 10, 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.

Association of primary care visit length with potentially inappropriate prescribing

A study of 4.3 million patients found shorter primary care visits were associated with a higher likelihood of antibiotic overprescribing and co-prescribing opioids and benzodiazepines. Younger, publicly insured, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic Black patients had shorter visits, highlighting opportunities for operational improvements in visi...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMar 10, 2023

Urine gene test can predict bladder cancer years before diagnosis

A new urine gene test can detect genetic mutations in urine that predict bladder cancer up to 12 years in advance of clinical symptoms. The test was trialled on over 50,000 participants and showed promising results, suggesting its potential for early detection and reduced unnecessary invasive procedures.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 10, 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.

Outperforms state-of-the-art algorithms in deep learning tasks

The Meta-Semi algorithm achieves competitive performance on challenging semi-supervised learning tasks, such as CIFAR-100 and STL-10, with only one additional hyper-parameter to tune. This approach naturally yields a meta-learning formulation where the correctly pseudo-labeled data has a similar distribution to labeled data.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCAAI Artificial Intelligence Research·DateMar 10, 2023

University of Cincinnati researchers develop innovative breathing aid

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati developed an innovative breathing device called PEP Buddy, which improves symptoms of breathlessness, quality of life, and oxygen levels in people with COPD. The study found significant reductions in shortness of breath and improvements in quality of life among participants.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalRespiratory Care·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 2023

Immune cells have a backup mechanism

Researchers at University of Bonn discover a backup mechanism in immune cells that ensures efficient antiviral responses despite TBK1 enzyme mutations or complete loss. This mechanism relies on the stability of IKKepsilon protein, which compensates for TBK1 deficiency.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 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.

Social intelligence is the next frontier for AI, researchers say

Researchers argue that Artificial Social Intelligence (ASI) is the next big frontier for AI. ASI requires social perception, Theory of Mind and social interaction to understand others' mental states and cooperate in shared tasks. The field needs a holistic approach mimicking human interaction.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCAAI Artificial Intelligence Research·DateMar 10, 2023

New ultrasound method could lead to easier disease diagnosis

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a new ultrasound method to measure tissue tension, which can indicate abnormal tissue, scarring, and cancer. This breakthrough technique uses sound waves to detect forces within soft tissue, enabling earlier disease diagnosis and potentially improving healthcare outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 10, 2023

Rutgers scientists identify substance that may have sparked life on earth

Researchers at Rutgers University identified a peptide called Nickelback, which could become a biosignature to detect planets on the verge of producing life. The peptide, composed of 13 amino acids and two nickel ions, was found to be a simple yet potent catalyst for metabolic processes.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 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.

SF State research closes in on next-generation atom-thick photonic devices

The SF State team has created a broadband nanoscale photodetector using bismuth-MoS2 materials, showing improved sensitivity in the UV range and responsiveness over a wide wavelength range. The device is also fast, working at around 10 kilohertz and potentially scalable to megahertz or gigahertz speeds.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalAdvanced Photonics Research·DateMar 10, 2023

Aging | Cognitive aging and dementia prevention: The time for psychology?

Recent studies have identified key psychological processes, such as repetitive negative thinking and self-reflection, that may impact cognitive aging and dementia prevention. Researchers propose incorporating psychological elements to reduce dementia risk through cognitive-behavioral interventions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 10, 2023

Astrocyte cells critical for learning skilled movements

Researchers found that astrocyte cells directly impact motor learning by maintaining an optimal molecular balance. Astrocytes' ability to regulate neurotransmitter glutamate affects the smoothness of movement and refinement of technique.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

HKU Marine Scientist contributes to research assessing the potential risks of ocean-based climate intervention technologies on deep-sea ecosystems

A research team led by Dr Lisa Levin assessed the potential risks of OBCIs on deep-sea ecosystems, raising substantial concern about their impacts on biodiversity and biogeochemistry. The study highlights the need for an integrated research framework to carefully consider the cost and benefits of each intervention.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 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.

Study reveals that soft gums are more prone to inflammation

A Tohoku University study found that soft gingiva is more likely to cause inflammation, hindering the development of collagen fibers. This discovery has implications for the development of advanced biomaterials and microdevices to control local inflammation.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 10, 2023

Researchers find access to new fluorescent materials

Researchers have found a way to increase the efficiency of fluorescence in phosphole-based compounds by modifying them with sulfonyl isocyanates. This modification method has been shown to significantly enhance the optical properties of these substances, making them suitable for use as efficient dyes or markers.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

Microscopy: highest resolution in three dimensions

Researchers have developed a super-resolution microscopy method that combines pMINFLUX, graphene energy transfer, and DNA-PAINT to achieve the highest resolution in three-dimensional space. This enables the rapid imaging of dense molecular structures with unprecedented precision.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2023

High CO2 concentration in the atmosphere impoverishes rice farmland

Elevated atmospheric CO2 reduces soil phosphorus availability in rice crops by more than 20%, compromising plant growth and food security. International research team finds 55% of large rice fields in China and India at risk of yield reduction due to phosphorus deficiency.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 10, 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.

Hotter than infinity – light pulses can behave like an exotic gas

Researchers at the Universities of Jena and Central Florida have created a photon gas that exhibits behavior similar to a conventional gas, with particles moving at different speeds but maintaining a mean velocity defined by temperature. This phenomenon, known as negative temperature, can be cooled or heated, allowing for the creation ...

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023