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Science News for May 19, 2023


Study reveals the persistent effects of corruption on trust and voting

A recent study by Bocconi University found that corruption can have a long-lasting effect on trust in democratic institutions. First-time voters who experienced the Mani Pulite investigation in 1994 were more likely to vote for populist parties and express lower institutional trust even 20 years later. The study highlights the need to ...

SourceBocconi University·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateMay 19, 2023

A recent investigation led by the CSIC successfully maps the shallow seabed of the Mediterranean coast using satellite images

Researchers from CSIC successfully mapped Cala Millor's shallow seabed in the Mediterranean using satellite images, highlighting the potential of this methodology in diverse ecosystems. This study contributes to improved coastal monitoring and adaptation measures against global change.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation·DateMay 19, 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.

New analysis of critical limb-ischemia patients places best-cli trial into context within real-world setting

A new analysis of chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) treatment outcomes found that surgical revascularization is superior to endovascular treatment in patients with higher comorbidities. The study analyzed a broader clinical population than the BEST-CLI trial and found similar outcome rates for Medicare beneficiaries.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 19, 2023

Pollinators are attracted to humidity, not just scent

A recent study published in Current Biology found that humidity plays a crucial role in attracting pollinators to plants, alongside scent. The researchers discovered that the weevil responsible for pollinating Zamia furfuracea was equally sensitive to humidity as to scent.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 19, 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 toddler’s gut bacteria predict whether they will be overweight at 5 years old

A new study found that the gut microbiota of toddlers at 3.5 years old is predictive of body mass index (BMI) at age 5, with certain types of bacteria associated with a higher or lower risk of obesity. The research also suggests that changes in the gut microbiota begin in early childhood and can influence weight gain later in life.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 19, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Room-temperature, solid-state synthesis of high-quality Cs3Cu2I5 thin films

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have successfully synthesized high-quality Cs3Cu2I5 thin films using a novel solid-state synthesis method. The team discovered that depositing CuI and CsI layers in specific ratios results in distinct local structures containing point defects, leading to highly efficient emissions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

New research finds mechanism that regulates PTSD in the female brain

Researchers discovered a specific form of ubiquitin protein selectively involved in forming fear memories in female brains, providing a potential target for therapeutic treatments. The finding could lead to more effective treatment options for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in females.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 19, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Puppeteer fungus’ targeted takeover of zombie flies

A recent study by Carolyn Elya reveals the molecular mechanisms behind summiting behavior in infected fruit flies. The researchers discovered that hormonal axes mediate this behavior, and that fungal cells invade the fly's brains during summiting.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournaleLife·DateMay 19, 2023

Even weak traffic noise has a negative impact on work performance

A laboratory study found that exposure to background traffic noise, even at 40 dB, significantly impairs concentration and perceived workload. Researchers also highlight the difficulties in avoiding high-frequency noise indoors due to reduced vehicle speeds.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Establishing Amazonian Morpho butterflies as a new eco-evolutionary model

Three Amazonian Morpho butterfly species have been sequenced for the first time, revealing genetic differences that maintain reproductive isolation despite sympatry. The study found Z-chromosome rearrangements and genetic divergence among gene copies, suggesting a role in speciation.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2023

High-quality 2D films could be one-drop away

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new technology to fabricate high-quality nanosheet films in about one minute. The method uses an automated film-forming process that produces neatly tiled monolayer films with no gaps between the nanosheets.

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 19, 2023
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Study finds cardiovascular risk score improves after one year of semaglutide use in patients with overweight and obesity

A study found that semaglutide use for one year decreases the 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk score in patients with overweight or obesity. The treatment also leads to significant improvements in metabolic parameters, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and fasting glucose levels.

SourceEuropean Association for the Study of Obesity·DateMay 19, 2023

Demystifying vortex rings in nuclear fusion, supernovae

A mathematical model developed by researchers at the University of Michigan could help engineers control the behavior of vortex rings in nuclear fusion and other applications. Vortex rings form during fuel compression and can disrupt the efficiency of fusion reactions. The model, which draws parallels with smoke rings, aims to understa...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 19, 2023

Influence of visual hindsight bias in mammogram reading

A study found that expert mammogram radiologists exhibit visual hindsight bias, leading to improved performance on blurry images after prior clear images were viewed. This bias can impact the detection of lesions and has implications for negligence lawsuits and patient outcomes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateMay 19, 2023

This sustainable solution for removing phosphate and ammonium from wastewater promotes a circular economy

Researchers at University of Toronto Engineering have developed a sustainable solution to remove phosphate and ammonium from wastewater by utilizing advanced membranes incorporating inorganic particles. This method recovers these nutrients for future use, providing a new source of materials for agricultural fertilizers and helping addr...

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMay 19, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Novel gene-editing strategy leverages unusual genetic alteration to block HIV spread in cells

Scientists at Temple University have developed a novel gene-editing strategy that disrupts the ability of HIV-1 virus to enter host cells by targeting a rare genetic disorder. This approach may offer another target for developing next-generation CRISPR technology for HIV elimination, while avoiding adverse effects on cell mortality.

SourceTemple University Health System·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateMay 19, 2023

Ancient climate change solves mystery of vanished South African lakes

A University of Leicester-led study suggests that ancient lakes existed in South Africa's interior during the last Ice Age, supporting hunter-gatherer communities. The research provides new insights into human migration patterns and ecosystem sensitivity to global climate change.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 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.

Rice, Baylor developing ‘glyco-immune’ checkpoint inhibitor

Researchers from Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine are developing a new 'glyco-immune' checkpoint inhibitor to train the immune system to target and kill breast cancer metastasis in bones. The therapy has shown promise in preliminary tests, including eradicating cancer in some animals.

SourceRice University·DateMay 19, 2023

Physical chemists develop photochromic active colloids shedding light on the development of new smart active materials

Researchers develop a novel wavelength-selective intelligent colloid system that achieves light-controlled multi-dimensional phase segregation, enabling the creation of programmable photochromic ink for various applications. The system relies on rearranging existing pigments rather than generating new chromophores.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

Why do so many businesses fail? A new study suggests it has to do with when they're born

A new study suggests that a business's long-term success depends on its founding conditions, rather than changing market environments. Businesses founded in dynamic environments with functionally diverse teams tend to survive environmental change through slower decision-making and increased creativity.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Entrepreneurship Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2023

New study shows noninvasive brain imaging can distinguish among hand gestures

A new study from UC San Diego shows that noninvasive brain imaging can distinguish among hand gestures with more than 85% accuracy. The research uses magnetoencephalography (MEG) to detect magnetic fields produced by neuronal electric currents, offering a safe and accurate option for developing brain-computer interfaces.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 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.

NJ Medicaid reforms tied to increased use of opioid addiction treatment

New Jersey's Medicaid reforms led to a significant increase in buprenorphine prescriptions for opioid addiction treatment, outpacing national rates. The reforms reduced barriers to medication usage among poor patients, resulting in slower growth of overdose deaths nationwide.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

‘Electrifying’ achievement for making more sustainable polymers

Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a new way to make 'green' polymers from low-cost building blocks using just a small amount of electricity. The reaction is fast, occurs at room temperature, and can be recycled into its constituent building blocks in high yield.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

Human ancestry has been shaped by mixing and matching alleles

Recent studies reveal complex patterns of admixture in human populations, particularly in Africa and the Americas. In Africa, ancient introgression from Neanderthals and Denisovans contributed to increased genetic diversity, while in the Americas, modern admixture resulted in redistributed archaic ancestry.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2023

SCAI announces second cycle recipients of Early Career Research Grants

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has awarded Early Career Research Grants to two junior interventional cardiologists, Nadia Sutton and Eric Secemsky. Their projects focus on high-priority topics in cardiovascular disease, including coronary microvascular dysfunction and peripheral vascular interventions.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 19, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Synthetic biology: proteins set vesicles in motion

Biophysicists have created an artificial transport system that maintains liposomes in constant motion using protein patterns and ATP. Two possible mechanisms for this motion are proposed, involving zipper-like interactions or membrane deformation.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateMay 19, 2023

Our brain prefers positive vocal sounds that come from our left

Researchers found that the brain's auditory cortex responds strongly to positive human sounds coming from the left, but not from the right or front. This bias may have an evolutionary advantage, as it could help detect potential threats or predators.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

New study reveals possible future health impacts related to climate mitigation

A new study by Penn State researchers found that some climate mitigation strategies could result in harmful health impacts in specific areas, particularly if significant land use changes are required for bioenergy production. This could lead to worsened respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, resulting in premature deaths.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMay 19, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Scientists urge crackdown on methane emissions with only 13% regulated

Only 13% of global methane emissions are regulated, despite causing at least 25% of current global warming. The lack of regulation and clarity must be urgently addressed to meet global climate targets, with a consistent approach worldwide needed to drastically reduce global warming levels.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalOne Earth·DateMay 19, 2023

New study finds common autism screening tool is effective but has limitations

A new study by UC Davis MIND Institute researchers and others finds that the M-CHAT-R/F screening tool is effective in identifying children with autistic traits, but it also flags many children incorrectly. The study highlights the need for clinical judgment and clear communication with parents about the limitations of the tool.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 19, 2023

Next generation transcatheter aortic valve replacement system improves clinician deliverability, tracking and deployment in real-world setting

The next-generation Evolut FX TAVR system shows improved deliverability, tracking, and deployment compared to its predecessor. This is particularly beneficial for patients with difficult anatomies, where the new device's predictable deployment can improve coronary access, blood flow, and valve performance.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 19, 2023

More than half of English patients with NSCLC in areas with low socio-economic levels do not receive new anti-cancer therapies

A study found that over half of English NSCLC patients living in low-socio-economic areas did not receive new anti-cancer therapies, despite having access to free treatment through the National Health Service. The researchers examined data from 90,785 patients diagnosed between 2012 and 2017.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMay 19, 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.

Novel tin-based metal–organic frameworks for reducing carbon dioxide to formate

Researchers have developed a novel tin-based MOF that can selectively reduce CO2 to formate in the presence of visible light, achieving high selectivity and quantum yield. The material, called KGF-10, was found to be efficient, precious-metal-free, and single-component.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 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.

An X-ray look at the heart of powerful quasars

A team of astronomers has observed the most luminous quasar in 9 billion years, shedding light on its interaction with its environment. The study found that the quasar's black hole is growing at a rate of 100 solar masses per year and emitting powerful winds into the host galaxy.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 19, 2023

Drug significantly reduces chorea symptoms in patients with Huntington’s disease

A recent study published in The Lancet Neurology found that valbenazine significantly reduces chorea symptoms in patients with Huntington’s disease. The Phase III trial showed improvement as early as the second week of treatment, with consistently greater benefits compared to a placebo.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateMay 19, 2023

How good is the data for tracking countries' agricultural greenhouse gas emissions?

A recent study analyzes national greenhouse gas emission inventories, revealing limited accuracy and transparency in low-and-middle-income countries. The review highlights the need for improved reporting methodologies to manage food security and climate change adaptation and mitigation.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateMay 19, 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.