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Science News Archive May 2023


Page 1 of 40

New liver dialysis device shows potential to resolve liver failure in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure

A clinical trial using DIALIVE, a novel liver dialysis device, demonstrated significant improvements in all main underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of acute-on-chronic liver failure. Treatment resulted in accelerated resolution of ACLF and sustained improvement in biomarkers.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 31, 2023

NIH scientists find treatment for rare genetic skin disorder

Researchers at the National Human Genome Research Institute identified a potential treatment for disabling pansclerotic morphea, a severe inflammatory disease. They found that patients with the disorder have an overactive STAT4 protein and significantly improved symptoms with ruxolitinib, a JAK inhibitor.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 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.

Further link identified between autoimmunity and schizophrenia

A study published in Brain Behavior and Immunity found autoantibodies against a synaptic adhesion protein, neurexin 1α, in patients with schizophrenia. In mice, these autoantibodies caused schizophrenia-related changes, including reduced social behavior and cognitive function.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·DateMay 31, 2023

Research calls for changes to state law requiring child protective services to be notified when medications for opioid use disorder are used during pregnancy

Research finds that Massachusetts' policy mandating reporting to child protective services for prenatal opioid use disorder (MOUD) exposure can be stigmatizing and lead to medical decision-making changes. The study calls for changing the law to uncouple treatment decisions from mandated reporting during the perinatal period.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateMay 31, 2023

A new player unveiled for lipid oxidation

Researchers have identified opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr) as a promising new target for enhancing lipid oxidation. Studies in rodents and human subjects suggest that OGFr boosts lipid metabolism, improving thermogenesis and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLife Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 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.

Almost 3 in 10 of young kids may have malaria in Sub-Saharan Africa

A study of almost 65,000 children aged up to 5 found that nearly 27% are infected with malaria, with older under-five children and those from large families or rural areas being most vulnerable. Insecticide-treated bed nets and improved housing are promising means to prevent malaria infection among children.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateMay 31, 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.

Enhanced treatment helps fast nicotine metabolizers quit smoking

A Vanderbilt study found that enhanced treatment support doubles the odds of quitting among fast nicotine metabolizers. Providing personalized coaching on nicotine replacement therapy reduces the abstinence disparity with slow metabolizers.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateMay 31, 2023

1 in 3 adults with Type 2 diabetes may have undetected cardiovascular disease

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that elevated levels of two protein biomarkers associated with heart damage were linked to undetected or symptomless cardiovascular disease in adults with Type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed health information and blood samples from over 10,300 adults and foun...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 31, 2023

Plants can distinguish when touch starts and stops

A Washington State University-led study reveals that plants can distinguish between touch and release by sending slow waves of calcium signals when touched and rapid waves when released. The researchers used specially bred plants with calcium sensors to detect these changes, providing new insights into plant sensitivity.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Plants·DateMay 31, 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 nanocrystal shines on and off indefinitely

Researchers have developed a fully photostable and photoswitchable nanoparticle that can be controlled indefinitely using near-infrared light. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize fields such as optical memory, super-resolution microscopy, and bioimaging.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

New nerve insights could someday help heal certain types of blindness and paralysis

A team of researchers found that a small population of nerve cells exists in everyone that could be coaxed to regrow, potentially restoring sight and movement. The discovery provides new insights into how axons grow and could lead to effective therapies for blindness, paralysis, and other disorders caused by nerve damage.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalDevelopment·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

Underestimated heat storage

Research estimates that continental landmasses have absorbed 23.8 x 10^21 Joules of heat between 1960 and 2020, with most stored up to 300m deep in the earth. This increase poses risks to ecosystems and food security due to associated warming and changes in water quality.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalEarth System Dynamics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2023

Only 16 US states provide free, detailed and updated suicide data from their prison systems, with 13 states providing incomplete data that was not always free, 8 states providing sparse or old data, and 13 states providing no data at all

Only 16 US states provide free, detailed, and updated suicide data from their prison systems, but many others have incomplete, sparse, or no data at all. This lack of transparency is in violation of the Death in Custody Reporting Act.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 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.

Tracking early signs of Alzheimer’s pathology in a mouse model

A new study in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease examines the effects of environmental enrichment on AD symptom progression and pathology. The researchers found that living in an enriched environment improved several measures of metabolism and reduced individual behaviors, which became more similar and rigid as the disease progressed.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

Four ways to advance equity and justice goals in climate action planning

A new study from the University of Waterloo highlights four strategies to enhance equity and justice in climate action planning: modifying strategies, designing collaborative spaces, addressing gaps between words and actions, and considering underlying social processes. By prioritizing vulnerable populations and local actors, urban gov...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPlanning Theory & Practice·DateMay 31, 2023

Tribological mechanism of carbon group nanofluids on grinding interface under minimum quantity lubrication based on molecular dynamics simulation

The study reveals the formation mechanism of a boundary lubrication film on the grinding interface, which reduces abrasive grain/workpiece contact area. Carbon group nanoparticles further enhance tribological performances, with reduced tangential grinding forces of 8.5-14.1%.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Mechanical Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2023

Special Issue of Health Equity devoted to veterans issues

A special issue of Health Equity journal explores ways to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare for veterans. Research highlights successful initiatives, such as a biweekly Diversity Equity and Inclusion Working Group meeting, and a 5-fold increase in women Veteran enrollment in the VA Million Veteran Program.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealth Equity·TypeNews article·DateMay 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.

DOE award to Zap Energy for fusion pilot plant design

The DOE's Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program supports Zap Energy's sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology, a promising approach to fusion energy. With $5 million in funding, Zap aims to develop a grid-ready power source and engage with local communities.

SourceZap Energy·DateMay 31, 2023

SWOG Cancer Research Network presents 30 abstracts at ASCO 2023

The SWOG Cancer Research Network will present 30 abstracts at the ASCO 2023 annual meeting, highlighting primary results from trials S1011, S1826, S1714, and S1929. Additionally, analysis from the S1609 DART trial will be shared publicly during the meeting.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 31, 2023

Male babies “talk” more in the first year than female babies do

A new study found that male infants make 10% more utterances in the first year compared to females, but this difference switches direction by the second year. The researchers suggest that male infants may have an evolutionary advantage due to their higher mortality rate in the first year.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 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.

How much nitrogen does corn get from fertilizer? Less than farmers think

Research shows that corn takes up about 67% of its nitrogen naturally from soil, rather than fertilizer. However, applying different forms and timing of fertilizers can improve efficiency, with nitrate being the most efficient source. Banding placement was also found to be more efficient than broadcasting.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMay 31, 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.

Research team studies source of hazardous March and April 2023 dust storms in China

A research team studied the source of hazardous March and April 2023 dust storms in China, finding that Mongolia is the main dust source affecting northern China's weather. The team used advanced models and machine learning techniques to forecast dust events, providing a reference for addressing global dust storm hazards.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMay 31, 2023

Understanding the tantalizing benefits of tantalum for improved quantum processors

Researchers used x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to study the chemical profile of tantalum surface oxides, revealing different kinds of tantalum oxides at the surface. This discovery prompted a new set of questions on modifying interfaces to improve device performance and minimizing loss.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 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.

Q & A with Xingna Qin and Ping Ren, authors of “Does Having Vulnerable Friends Help Vulnerable Youth? The Co-Evolution of Friendships, Victimization, and Depressive Symptoms in Chinese Adolescents’ Social Networks” Child Development

A recent study analyzed the impact of vulnerable friendships on Chinese adolescents' social networks, finding that befriending a victimized peer can decrease depressive symptoms but increase victimization. Classroom supportive norms play a crucial role in mitigating these effects.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateMay 31, 2023

Cats can play a role in transmitting COVID-19

A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and can spread the virus to other cats and their environment. The infected cats' environments were also found to be infectious, but this infectiousness decays rapidly.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateMay 31, 2023

Experts assess state of the art in the treatment and management of cerebral palsy

A special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine explores the treatment and management of cerebral palsy, including spasticity management and pain relief. The articles discuss various approaches to managing spasticity, such as enteral baclofen use and botulinum neurotoxinA injections, aiming to improve care and quali...

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 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.

UC Irvine-led interdisciplinary team delves into a heated debate about humidity

A UC Irvine-led interdisciplinary team highlights a dispute between physiologists and epidemiologists about the role of humidity in heat stress. The authors argue that humid conditions exacerbate heat-related illnesses, particularly in tropical nations, and call for more accurate models to predict future health impacts.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateMay 31, 2023

Eat right, live longer: could a moderate protein diet be the coveted elixir of youth?

A recent study published in GeroScience found that a moderate-protein diet (25% and 35%) improved metabolic health in both young and middle-aged mice. The researchers also observed reduced blood glucose concentrations and lipid levels in liver and plasma. A balanced diet with moderate protein intake may promote metabolic health in huma...

SourceWaseda University·JournalGeroScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 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.

Actively reducing noise by ionizing air

EPFL scientists develop a novel concept, called the active 'plasmacoustic metalayer', which can be controlled to cancel out noise. The device is more compact than conventional solutions, absorbing 100% of incoming sound intensity and offering tunable acoustic reflection over a broad bandwidth.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 31, 2023

KC-based study shows evictions happen most in predominantly Black neighborhoods, homes with children

A new study from the University of Kansas shows that neighborhood characteristics such as being predominantly Black and having families with children are strongly associated with higher eviction rates. In contrast, gentrified neighborhoods or those with high rents do not predict increased eviction levels.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Urban Affairs·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 31, 2023

How Canadians' lifestyle behaviours changed during the COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that sixty percent of Canadians maintained or improved their lifestyle habits during the pandemic, while forty percent adopted less healthy behaviors. Researchers identified certain groups, including those with body image issues and stress, as more likely to adopt unhealthy habits.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJMIR Public Health and Surveillance·DateMay 31, 2023

Reduced emissions during the pandemic led to increased climate warming

Reduced emissions during the pandemic led to decreased concentrations of short-lived cooling particles, but not greenhouse gases. This resulted in stronger climate warming due to the 'masking effect' being lifted. The study suggests a complete transition to renewable energy could lead to rapid 'unmasking' of aerosols.

SourceStockholm University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateMay 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.

Native tobacco plants reborn as ‘biofactories’ for medicines

Researchers from the University of Queensland have successfully grown native wild tobacco plants as 'biofactories' to produce large quantities of drugs. The method uses modern molecular biology techniques to instruct plant cells to produce desired molecules, resulting in a more cost-effective and sustainable production process.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalTransgenic Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

New 3D printing technique ready to advance manufacturing

Researchers at Heriot-Watt University have created a new method of 3D printing that uses near-infrared (NIR) light to create complex structures with multiple materials and colors. This breakthrough allows for the integration of different materials and properties, opening up possibilities for industries such as health and electronics.

SourceHeriot-Watt University·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateMay 31, 2023

When countries cut taxes for new ideas, capital investments rise

A study found that countries offering tax breaks for corporate innovation see greater economic growth in capital investment and highly compensated jobs. However, the impact on hiring or overall compensation is limited, with increased average pay for research and development workers instead.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Accounting Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 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.

You can make carbon dioxide filters with a 3D printer

Researchers at NC State University have developed a novel method for creating CO2 capture filters using 3D printing. The filters, made from a hydrogel material infused with the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, captured 24% of CO2 in a gas mixture and retained 52% of its performance after over 1,000 hours. This technology has potential applic...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGels·DateMay 31, 2023

Can we learn to think further ahead?

A team of cognitive scientists created a computational model to understand the factors affecting decision-making and planning depth. They found that better planning is driven by the ability to recognize patterns more accurately and in less time, pointing to the benefits of practice and experience.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023