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Science News for March 31, 2023


New type of friction discovered in ligand-protein systems

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have discovered a new type of friction in proteins called anisotropic friction, which depends on direction. The discovery was made using single molecule experiments and simulations, revealing that friction increases with the pulling angle applied to a ligand from a protein.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 31, 2023

Strike (aging) when the iron is hot

Scientists at SENS Research Foundation have discovered a new class of broad-spectrum senolytic drugs that target the key vulnerability in destructive aging cells. These drugs are effective against both primary and secondary senescent cells, making them a promising approach for treating age-related diseases.

SourceSENS Research Foundation·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

What caused the record-low Antarctic sea ice in austral summer 2022?

Researchers found record-low Antarctic sea ice in austral summer 2022 due to stronger positive sea surface temperature anomalies and unprecedented ozone reduction. The anomalies triggered the deepening of an Amundsen Sea Low, leading to sea ice retreat via horizontal wind anomalies.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 31, 2023

New UNC Chapel Hill study quantifies $562M in financial risk from Hurricane Florence using novel modeling approach that evaluates risk of mortgage default and property abandonment

A new study published by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill estimates $562 million in previously unquantified financial risks arising from property value changes and uninsured flood damages in eastern North Carolina. The research team developed a new modeling framework using data on homes sales, mortgage loa...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalEarth s Future·DateMar 31, 2023

The stars in the brain may be information regulators

Research suggests astrocytes integrate external sensory inputs with internal states to modify calcium signaling towards neurons. This process could be crucial for behavioral responses and memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateMar 31, 2023

After spinal cord injury, kinesthetic sense helps restore movement, model suggests

A new study reveals that lampreys use body-sensing feedback to regain swimming abilities after spinal injury, challenging the conventional view of neural regeneration. Mathematical models suggest that this technique could be applied to humans with spinal injuries or diseases affecting movement.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 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.

Risk of sudden cardiac arrest rises sharply in Ventura county

A study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found a 38% increase in sudden cardiac arrest among all Ventura County residents and a 77% increase among Hispanic residents during the first two years of the pandemic. Overall survival from sudden cardiac arrest declined from 15.3% to 10%.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateMar 31, 2023

Mathematical model provides bolt of understanding for lightning-produced X-rays

A Penn State-led team has discovered a new physical mechanism explaining naturally occurring X-rays associated with lightning activity in the Earth's atmosphere. The researchers developed a mathematical model that explains how electric fields amplify electrons, driving the phenomenon of relativistic runaway discharges in air.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2023

Harnessing nature to promote planetary sustainability

The latest issue of PLOS Biology features a special collection on biology-based solutions to reduce plastic pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and produce food or energy more sustainably. Insect enzymes may degrade plastic waste, while photosynthetic algae can capture CO2 produced by industrial applications.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2023

Study shows ketamine could be beneficial for treating brain injury in children

A new study suggests that ketamine could be a promising treatment option for children with traumatic brain injuries, particularly in reducing intracranial pressure. The research found that ketamine can lower ICP during crisis situations, which is crucial for preventing long-term neurologic impairment.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateMar 31, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Extraction of topological invariants from band structure in the synthetic frequency dimension

Researchers demonstrate direct experimental measurement of Zak phase from bulk band structure for a synthetic SSH model using frequency axis of light. The study showcases universal characterizing method for exploring topological phases of matter with experimental feasibility and reconfigurability.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMar 31, 2023

At the end of the dry season: CO2 pulses over Australia

Researchers from Heidelberg University discovered CO2 pulses in Australian atmosphere at end of dry season, triggered by soil microorganisms activated by heavy rainfall. This finding suggests dry regions have a significant influence on the global carbon cycle, contributing to climate modelling and understanding.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2023

NRG Oncology combined trial long-term results indicate that pathologic complete response is prognostic of outcomes for soft tissue sarcoma patients

The NRG Oncology combined trial results indicate that pathologic complete response (pCR) is associated with improved survival outcomes for patients with localized soft tissue sarcoma. pCR can be used as a prognostic factor for clinical outcomes in future STS research, with patients achieving higher overall and disease-free survival rates.

SourceNRG Oncology·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 31, 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.

Pictures inside a cell: USC researchers develop new tool to provide greater insight into biological processes

Researchers at USC have developed a new technique called Hybrid Unmixing, which allows for simultaneous imaging of bright and dim labeled components within organic tissue. This enables accurate insights into cellular behaviors and metabolism, providing a comprehensive understanding of complex biological systems.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 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.

A new model predicts the flexibility of DNA movement at the molecular scale

A new model of DNA flexibility has been developed, providing results of unprecedented quality and characterizing precision and efficiency at the computational level. The study presents a systematic and comprehensive analysis of DNA movement correlations and introduces a new method to capture them.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2023

Can cities make room for woodpeckers?

Researchers found that corridors with abundant mature trees and deadwood help pileated woodpeckers adjust to urban landscape fragmentation. The Little Miami River corridor is one of the best places for these birds in Hamilton County, Ohio.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 31, 2023

Vaginal microbiome does not influence babies’ gut microbiome

Researchers found that a mother's vaginal microbiome composition does not significantly affect the infant stool microbiome in early life. Factors such as breast milk and antibiotic exposure play a larger role in shaping the baby's gut microbiome.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 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.

Engineered E. coli delivers therapeutic nanobodies to the gut

Researchers engineered a strain of E. coli to secrete proteins that block inflammation and inhibit tumor necrosis factor alpha, showing efficacy comparable to injected antibodies in mice with inflammatory bowel disease. The engineered bacteria offer a potential treatment for intestinal-based diseases with reduced side effects.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 31, 2023

ORNL’s Lee named Materials Research Society Fellow

Ho Nyung Lee, a condensed matter physicist at ORNL, has been elected a Fellow of the Materials Research Society for his distinguished accomplishments in advancing materials research. He is recognized for his leadership and service to the community, particularly in precision synthesis and complex oxide thin films.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateMar 31, 2023

Plastic transistor amplifies biochemical sensing signal

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new technology that boosts weak biochemical signals by over 1,000 times using plastic transistor amplification. This enables real-time health diagnostics and disease monitoring without complex electronics.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

Hope for salamanders? Illinois study recalibrates climate change effects

Researchers at University of Illinois have recalibrated climate change effects on salamanders, showing a somewhat more hopeful future. The study found that incorporating microclimate data at fine spatial scales reduced predicted habitat loss by 55-80% compared to using free-air temperature data.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal for Nature Conservation·DateMar 31, 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.

Gay, lesbian, bisexual preteens spend 4 more hours on screens daily

A new study found that LGB preteens ages 10-14 reported 10.4 hours of daily recreational screen time, which was nearly four hours more than their straight peers. The researchers argue that parents should regularly talk to their children about screen usage and develop a family media use plan.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2023

Uneven Indian Ocean warming unlocked

A recent study reveals that uneven future warming in the Indian Ocean can cause shifts in monsoon precipitation, with potential impacts on societies and ecosystems. The research identifies key mechanisms driving these changes, including winds and ocean currents.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 31, 2023

Study examines how social rank affects response to stress

Researchers at Tulane University found that social rank affects the stress response in adult female mice, particularly in how they respond to chronic social stress. The study revealed differences in brain areas activated by social encounters based on social status, with higher-ranking mice more susceptible to social isolation and lower...

SourceTulane University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2023

New study offers clues to how cancer spreads to the brain

Researchers used microfluidic devices to track what happens to cancer cells as they migrate and take root in the brain. They found that Dkk-1 triggers cancer cell migration, and reducing its levels near tumor cells may disrupt crosstalk between brain niche cells and cancer cells.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAdvanced NanoBiomed Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Academic institutions receive lower financial returns from biotechnology licenses than commercial firms

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that academic institutions receive significantly lower royalty rates, total payments, and pre-commercial payments for biotechnology licenses compared to commercial firms. The disparities were observed even after accounting for differences in product stage development.

SourceBentley University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2023

Path to net-zero carbon capture and storage may lead to ocean

A novel copper-containing polymeric filter can effectively capture carbon dioxide from the air, converting it into sodium bicarbonate that can be released harmlessly into the ocean. The technology has garnered international attention and could be powered by renewable energy in the future.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 31, 2023

Study: ChatGPT has potential to help cirrhosis, liver cancer patients

A new study by Cedars-Sinai investigators found that ChatGPT can provide easy-to-understand information about basic knowledge, lifestyle, and treatments for cirrhosis and liver cancer. The AI system has the potential to play a role in clinical practice and empower patients with knowledge about their disease.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalClinical and Molecular Hepatology·DateMar 31, 2023

Making rare cell types visible: Researchers are developing a new method

Researchers have developed a new microfluidic chip that enables the visualization of rare cell types and disease patterns in tissue. This method combines imaging and sequencing techniques, providing spatially resolved information about individual cells and their environment.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Yak milk consumption among Mongol Empire elites

A study co-led by a University of Michigan researcher provides direct evidence for the consumption of yak milk, as well as horse and ruminant blood proteins. The discovery was made possible by the preservation of ancient DNA in permafrost, revealing intriguing protein sequences.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 31, 2023

2021-like North American heat extremes: Increased impact of heat domes due to background warming and soil moisture feedback

The study found that heat domes over Western North America contributed 50% of the observed high temperatures in 2021-like heatwaves. The intensities of these extreme heat events are projected to increase by 40-fold by the end of the century, emphasizing the need for climate mitigation and adaptation activities.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 31, 2023

Visible light-induced superoxides production by bacteria accelerates manganese oxidation in the environment

Bacteria have been found to produce superoxides under visible light, accelerating the oxidation of manganese ions and contributing to the formation of manganese oxides in the environment. This process is a significant natural source of manganese oxide and has implications for environmental pollution treatment.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

Iguana stole my cake! and left behind a nasty surprise

A 3-year-old girl was infected with M. marinum after being bitten by an iguana while on holiday in Costa Rica. The toddler developed a ganglion cyst and eventually responded to treatment with rifampin and clarithromycin.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 31, 2023

Danish researchers discover birds with neurotoxin-laden feathers

Two new species of poisonous birds have been discovered in New Guinea's rainforest, containing a neurotoxin similar to that found in South American poison dart frogs. Genetic changes in these bird species allow them to tolerate and store the toxin in their feathers, potentially serving as a defensive mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMar 31, 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.

Status epilepticus: New inflammatory markers to improve patient care

A new study identifies several cytokine markers associated with poor prognosis in New-Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus (NORSE) patients. The researchers found that the concentration of these inflammatory proteins was higher in NORSE patients than controls, and their increase was correlated with short-term and long-term neurological ...

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2023

The untold history of the horse in the American plains

A recent study published in Science reveals that domestic horses transformed human life in North America following their reintroduction. The research used archaeological materials, historical sources, and Indigenous knowledge to understand when, why, and how horses were integrated into Native Nations' lifeways.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2023

Making more sustainable decisions based on data

A pilot study in Eritrea demonstrates the importance of mapping and assessing ecosystems and their services for sustainable policy and decision-making. The research team recommends making information on ecosystem services available to stakeholders and the public to enable responsible decision-making.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAMBIO·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2023

Childhood asthma declines during COVID-19 pandemic

A new Rutgers study finds that childhood asthma diagnoses decreased by 52% in the US during the first year of the pandemic compared to previous years. Researchers attribute this decline to fewer colds and the practice of wearing masks, which may have reduced the risk of asthma triggers.

SourceRutgers University·JournalRespiratory Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2023

Latinx students reported higher depression and anxiety symptoms than other students during the pandemic

A new study finds that Latinx students experienced higher rates of depression and anxiety during the Covid-19 pandemic, with a risk of 1.5 to 2 times more likely than their peers. The study highlights the need for practical and efficacious programs to address the mental health needs of adolescents in school settings.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology·DateMar 31, 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.

Bringing angular momentum to holograms and metasurfaces

Researchers develop unique method for applying angular momentum holography for information multiplexing, enabling unprecedented capacity for optical information processing. The new paradigm allows for spatially modulating waveforms and offers additional security locks, revolutionizing existing optical encryption schemes.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMar 31, 2023

A healthy microbiome may prevent deadly infections in critically ill people

A UCalgary study found that a healthy gut microbiome can prevent deadly hospital infections in critically ill patients. The research showed that the gut microbiota and immune system work together to fight infection, with abnormal gut bacteria increasing the risk of severe infections.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 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.

Study reveals new insights into body salt handling

A new study led by Marshall University researchers has revealed that the Xie model for NKA receptor/signaling is a key player in regulating sodium balance. The study found that NKA signaling tonically inhibits sodium reabsorption in the renal proximal tubule, shedding light on a novel mechanism of body salt handling.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 31, 2023

Hospitals with the most vulnerable maternity patients understaffed with nurses

A recent study found that hospitals serving more vulnerable childbearing populations tend to have inadequate nurse staffing levels, which can lead to poor maternal health outcomes. The researchers surveyed 3,471 registered nurses from 271 hospitals and discovered inconsistencies in nurse-to-patient ratios with national staffing standards.

SourceNew York University·JournalNursing Outlook·DateMar 31, 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.

Metasurfaces designed by a bidirectional deep neural network and iterative algorithm for generating quantitative field distributions

A team of scientists developed a new approach to designing metasurfaces with high-accuracy functionalities using a tandem neural network and iterative algorithm. The design enables the creation of ultracompact devices with quantitative capabilities in imaging, detecting, and sensing applications.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateMar 31, 2023

Scallop eyes as inspiration for new microscope objectives

Researchers have developed a new type of microscope objective inspired by the eyes of scallops, which can capture images in various immersion media, including liquids. This innovative approach uses a mirror instead of lenses and has been shown to provide excellent image quality in homogeneous fluids as well as in air.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

A knowledge-inherited learning for intelligent metasurface design and assembly

A new paradigm in metasurface design and assembly is proposed, utilizing a knowledge-inherited neural network to inherit physical connections and network correlations among various metamaterials. The method achieves accurate designs for diverse applications, including satellite communication.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMar 31, 2023

This is your brain on everyday life

Researchers used functional MRI scanners to monitor brains of subjects watching real-life videos, finding that different parts of the brain work together to understand and remember situations. The study suggests the brain creates mental sketches of people that can be transposed from one location to another.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 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.

Study finds high rates of burnout across healthcare professions

A national survey by Brigham researchers identified high levels of burnout, intent to leave the profession, and work overload among healthcare workers. Burnout was most prevalent among nurses (56%) and other clinical staff (54.1%), with 41% of nurses reporting intent to leave.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 31, 2023

New hope for patients after vedolizumab found effective to treat chronic pouchitis

A new study by Oxford researchers has found vedolizumab to be effective in inducing remission in patients with chronic pouchitis after surgery for ulcerative colitis. The treatment improved remission rates and quality of life, making it a game-changer for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2023

Metformin & leucine prevent cellular senescence & proteostasis disruption

Researchers found that metformin + leucine (MET+LEU) treatment prevents myotube atrophy by reversing cellular senescence and improving proteostasis. The study used C2C12 myoblasts, aged mouse single myofibers, and human primary myotubes to demonstrate MET+LEU's skeletal muscle cell-autonomous properties.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

Why are forests turning brown in summer?

Researchers found that exceptional weather conditions over several years are turning European forests brown. Characteristic weather patterns, such as prolonged dry periods and high temperatures, precede these events, with a legacy effect contributing to future low-forest greenness.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalBiogeosciences·DateMar 31, 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.

Helping mums in poorer countries give their babies better brains

A low-cost, high-effective program provides community-based groups to teach women and partners about nutrition, caregiving, and health from pregnancy to age one. The study found significant improvements in brain development, cognitive skills, and language abilities at age two compared to usual healthcare.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

Novel supercapacitor for energy storage applications

Researchers at IISc have developed a novel ultramicro supercapacitor with enhanced electrochemical capacitance, exceeding 3000% increase in capacitance under certain conditions. The device uses Field Effect Transistors as charge collectors and solid gel electrolyte for improved electron mobility.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateMar 31, 2023

Researchers uncover the first steps driving antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered crucial steps that promote ciprofloxacin resistance in bacteria, pointing to potential strategies to extend antibiotics' effectiveness. The study found that RNA polymerase plays a major role in regulating DNA repair and identified a key molecule involved in modulating this response.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023