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Science News for September 28, 2023


Ultrasound may rid groundwater of toxic ‘forever chemicals’

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered that ultrasound can break down harmful PFAS compounds in groundwater, rendering them harmless. The technique works by emitting sound waves that compress and heat up the solution, breaking down the stable carbon-fluorine bonds that make up the toxic chemicals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·DateSep 28, 2023

SARS-CoV-2 infects coronary arteries, increases plaque inflammation

Researchers found SARS-CoV-2 directly infects coronary arteries, causing fatty plaque to become inflamed. The virus replicates in macrophages, leading to increased inflammation and potentially worsening cardiovascular complications.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateSep 28, 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.

Experts present pioneering vision on reducing brain disorders by 2050

A special supplement presents insights on neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, affecting 55 million people worldwide. Researchers explore novel molecular pathways and therapeutic approaches, such as acupuncture therapy, to alleviate the burden of brain disorders.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 28, 2023

Researchers realize direct conversion of methane with oxygen at room temperature

Researchers developed direct conversion of methane with oxygen at room temperature using edge-rich MoS2 catalyst, achieving up to 4.2% conversion rate and 99% selectivity for C1 oxygenates. The unique binuclear molybdenum site facilitates O2 dissociation and activates C-H bond.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 28, 2023

Researchers of the School of Science of TalTech revived a method abandoned a century ago. Why?

Researchers at TalTech's School of Science have revived the abandoned Barbier method for creating organometallic compounds, improving efficiency and environmental friendliness. The new technique uses mechanochemistry, a process that avoids organic solvents and produces stable compounds with minimal waste.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Vision in the brain – hardwired for action

Researchers found that brain circuits in 'deep-blind' zebrafish are fully functional and can drive normal visual behavior through direct stimulation. This study challenges the long-held assumption that neural development depends on visual experience.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Child Development journal Q&A: Music intervention programs can enhance parent and baby language interactions

A study of Music Together program found increased conversational turns and parent verbal quality in participants, suggesting community-based music programs as a promising population-level intervention for infancy. Future work should include broader populations to generalize results.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 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.

Childbirth associated with significant medical debt

A new study by Michigan Medicine found that postpartum individuals in low-income neighborhoods are more likely to accumulate medical debt due to high out-of-pocket costs. Researchers suggest policies to reduce maternal-infant healthcare spending can ease financial hardship and improve birth equity.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateSep 28, 2023

Advances in gene therapy for CLN2 batten disease

A new study found that delivering gene therapy to the cerebrospinal fluid directly corrects gene mutations causing CLN2 disease, showing potential therapeutic effects. In nonhuman primates, TPP-1 activity increased significantly after treatment, providing hope for families affected by this fatal childhood disorder.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Uncovered: the source of sticking power and virulence for an emerging fungal pathogen

Researchers characterized adhesins produced by Candida auris, discovering a previously uncharacterized adhesin called Surface Colonization Factor (SCF1) that governs surface association and virulence. SCF1 relies on cationic interactions for attachment, unlike other fungal adhesins that function through hydrophobic interactions.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2023

Noninvasive, ultrasound-based brain biopsy is feasible, safe in people

Researchers have developed a noninvasive brain biopsy technique using ultrasound and microbubbles to access brain tissue without surgery. The technique increases circulating tumor DNA by 1.6- to 5.6-fold, providing valuable genetic information for treatment decisions.

SourceWashU Medicine·Journalnpj Precision Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

NUTRITION 2024 makes its way to Chicago

NUTRITION 2024 will convene in Chicago to explore the latest nutrition research and share findings on diet and disease, artificial intelligence, and precision nutrition. The event promises to be a knowledge-packed experience with scientific symposia, educational sessions, and networking opportunities.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·DateSep 28, 2023

Oldest hunter-gatherer basketry in southern Europe, 9,500 years old, discovered in Cueva de los Murciélagos, Albuñol (Granada, Spain)

A team of scientists has discovered and analyzed the oldest direct evidence of basketry among hunter-gatherer societies and early farmers in southern Europe. The esparto grass objects from Cueva de los Murciélagos date back to the Mesolithic period, between 9,500 and 6,200 years ago.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

“Printing” photo-thermoelectric imagers on soft sheet

A new fabrication process for photo-thermoelectric imagers on soft sheets has been developed, enabling highly durable non-destructive inspections. The process simplifies the integration of multi-functional device substrates, contributing to the manufacturing of image sensor sheets.

SourceChuo University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Data storage of tomorrow

Researchers have developed a novel supramolecular memristor based on bistable [2]catenanes, which can achieve high-density storage and non-volatile memory capabilities. The memristors demonstrated at least 1000 erase-read-write cycles and switching times comparable to commercial inorganic memristors.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

Menopausal hormone changes linked to cognitive deficits

A new study links menopause to cognitive deficits, revealing estrogen receptor beta's crucial role in astrocytes. Midlife female mice showed cognitive impairment after losing ovarian hormones, and brain atrophy was observed in the dorsal hippocampus.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

'Side-by-side' utility terrain vehicles linked to high rates of hand injuries

A study in the October issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found higher rates of mutilating hand injuries and amputations with side-by-side UTVs compared to all-terrain vehicles. UTV riders had three times the amount of mutilating injuries and nearly ten times the amount of amputations.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateSep 28, 2023

SMU working with transportation nonprofit Feonix Mobility Rising, other universities to improve health disparities in Dallas and Detroit

A community-led research program aims to study the impact of improved transportation on health outcomes for people with chronic medical conditions and women with high-risk pregnancies. The project provides individuals with a mobility wallet, allowing them to access medical services without relying on traditional transportation options.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·DateSep 28, 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.

Science News Special Issue: Heat and Health

Ongoing climate change presents emerging threats to human health, including the awakening of long-frozen pathogens and increasing heat-related hazards in pregnancy. Researchers are working to understand these complex connections, exploring how climate-driven changes affect disease risk and developing strategies to mitigate these risks.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2023

New study provides evidence for more effective brain-based treatment of chronic back pain

A new study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that reattribution of pain to mind or brain processes can lead to significant reductions in chronic back pain intensity. Participants who received pain reprocessing therapy reported being pain-free or nearly so after treatment, compared to those receiving placebo controls.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 28, 2023

3D-printed plasmonic plastic enables large-scale optical sensor production

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology developed 3D-printed plasmonic plastic, enabling the mass production of optical sensors that can detect hydrogen gas. The composite material has unique optical properties, allowing it to filter out molecules except hydrogen, making it ideal for various applications.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·TypeNews article·DateSep 28, 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.

Scientists figured out what causes Earth’s strongest lightning

A new study finds that superbolts, which are less than 1% of total lightning but pack a powerful punch, tend to cluster over areas with short gaps between the electrical charging zone and land or water surface. This allows for higher-energy bolts to form due to reduced electrical resistance.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateSep 28, 2023

Pharmacist-led intervention can improve medication adherence among Latinos with type 2 diabetes

A pharmacist-led intervention has been shown to improve medication adherence among Latinos with type 2 diabetes, leading to significant reductions in blood sugar levels. The study found that patients who interacted with a pharmacist had an average 0.45% reduction in blood sugar, while systolic blood pressure remained unchanged.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2023

New study reveals promising machine learning model for predicting critical bleeding in immune thrombocytopenia patients

A new machine learning model accurately predicts the risk of critical bleeding in patients with immune thrombocytopenia by analyzing easily accessible clinical variables. The model's performance was validated using various statistical measures, including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateSep 28, 2023

Unlocking the potential of silicon anode materials for commercialized batteries

Researchers propose analysis protocol to evaluate feasibility of silicon-containing batteries with reduced particle size and uniform dispersion. The study finds promising results from innovative synthesis technology and initial efficiencies exceeding 90% with improved lifespan characteristics.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 28, 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.

NTU Singapore scientists discover how human cells distribute and maintain their cholesterol levels, aiding in the understanding of cardiovascular and Alzheimer's diseases

Researchers identified key proteins regulating cholesterol distribution within cells, including OSBP1, ORP92, and GRAMD1s. This discovery sheds light on the critical mechanisms underlying cellular cholesterol distribution, offering insights into various health conditions.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 28, 2023

How a suction cup delivers medications to the bloodstream

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has developed a suction cup capable of delivering large molecule medications like peptides to the bloodstream through the mucosal lining of the cheek. The device uses an endogenous agent to fluidise cell membranes, allowing the drug to penetrate deeper tissue layers and enter the bloodstream directly.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Catch-22s of reservoir computing

Researchers have identified a major weakness in reservoir computing, a powerful machine learning tool used to model complex dynamic systems. The tool requires a lengthy warm-up time and relies on key information about the system being predicted being built in, making it challenging to accurately predict chaotic behaviors.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateSep 28, 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.

Innovative approach reveals environmental mechanisms of the end-Cretaceous extinction

A novel approach combines models with MCMC inversion to predict CO2 and SO2 emissions, carbon export productivity, and remineralization changes across the K/Pg boundary. The results show decoupled CO2 and SO2 emissions, evidence for a two-stage drop in carbon export productivity, and no clear signal of a volatile impulse at the boundary.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2023

Wearable device data reveals that reduced sleep and activity in pregnancy is linked to premature birth risk

A study using wearable device data found that reduced sleep and physical activity during pregnancy are linked to an increased risk of preterm birth. The research, led by Stanford Medicine, collected data from over 1,000 women throughout pregnancy and identified patterns that can help prevent early deliveries.

SourceStanford Medicine·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

The Human Brain Project ends: What has been achieved

The Human Brain Project has driven outstanding advances in brain research and medicine, producing over 3000 academic publications and 160 digital tools. The EBRAINS infrastructure will remain accessible to the scientific community after the project's end.

SourceHuman Brain Project·DateSep 28, 2023

A turtle time capsule: DNA found in ancient shell

A team of paleontologists has discovered the oldest record of sea turtle DNA in a fossil shell from Panama's Caribbean coast. The findings, published in Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, date back approximately 6 million years to the upper Miocene Epoch.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateSep 28, 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.

Life satisfaction may not enhance cognitive functioning among some older adults

A new study suggests that life satisfaction has limited benefits for cognitive function in older adults experiencing health or socioeconomic challenges. High life satisfaction was associated with increased cognitive functioning among most individuals, but it was less beneficial for those with low SES, poor health, or adverse psychologi...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalSSM - Mental Health·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 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.

Capturing CO2 with electricity: A microbial enzyme inspires electrochemistry

Scientists have isolated a microbial enzyme that converts CO2 to formate with high efficiency when attached to an electrode, making it a potential candidate for capturing the greenhouse gas. The system uses renewable energy from wind or solar power to drive the conversion process, storing energy in the form of formate.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 28, 2023

The application of metabolomics based on mass spectrometry offers profound insights into the intricate interplay between health and diseases, unraveling metabolic processes spanning from subcellular organelles to complex tissues

Novel metabolomics techniques offer insights into metabolic processes from subcellular organelles to complex tissues. Single-cell and single-organelle metabolomics reveal cellular heterogeneity, capturing the diverse nature of metabolism.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateSep 28, 2023

Making elbow room: Giant molecular rotors operate in solid crystal

A team at Hokkaido University has set a size record for dynamic motion in crystals, demonstrating the largest molecular rotor operational in the solid-state. The rotors consist of a central rotating molecule connected to stationary stator molecules, and can rotate at frequencies of 100–400 kHz.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Shoring up the West's grid against extreme weather

A new interdisciplinary center at the University of Utah aims to fortify the region's power infrastructure against climate-related threats, including floods, high winds, and drought. The $14 million center will gather and distribute climate and grid data to develop customized models for risk quantification and forecasting.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 28, 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 wearable sensor makes continuous analysis of sweat possible, researchers say

Researchers have developed a novel wearable patch that can continuously analyze sweat for three weeks, detecting specific glucose levels while monitoring body temperature and pH. The device uses a laser-modified graphene nanocomposite material and has shown greater stability over time compared to previous sensors.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 28, 2023

Alcohol 'promotion' detracted from success of Women's World Cup

Alcohol promotion detracted from the success of the record-breaking Women's World Cup tournament, say researchers. The 'thorny issue of alcohol' was highlighted in a broadcast of the final match between England and Spain, where a fan celebrating with beer was featured.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateSep 28, 2023

Sexy Instagram images can affect body image

A new study by Flinders University researchers found that viewing sexualized Instagram posts increases negative mood and body dissatisfaction among young female adults. Exposure to influencer imagery led to greater negative mood, body dissatisfaction, appearance comparison, and self-objectification compared to control images.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 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.

Wearable patch wirelessly monitors estrogen in sweat

Researchers at Caltech developed a wearable sensor that detects estradiol levels in sweat, allowing for real-time monitoring of female hormones. The sensor can track changing estradiol levels throughout the reproductive cycle, providing valuable insights for fertility and hormone replacement therapy.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 28, 2023

Scientists shed light on how stressed cells sequester protein-forming mRNAs

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have discovered that a tiny chemical modification on mRNAs, known as m6A, is key to the formation of stress granules during cell stress. Longer mRNAs dominate stress granules because they have high levels of m6A, which triggers their sequestration.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 28, 2023

Why are killer whales harassing and killing porpoises without eating them?

Researchers analyzed 78 documented incidents of porpoise harassment by Southern Resident killer whales from 1962 to 2020. The study suggests three plausible explanations: mismothering behavior, limited opportunities to care for young due to malnutrition, and a specialized salmon diet that makes eating porpoises highly unlikely.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalMarine Mammal Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 28, 2023

Specific interneurons are important in aging-associated cognitive decline, study finds

Researchers identify somatostatin-positive interneurons as crucial in maintaining cognitive function, and their dysfunction leads to impaired memory and learning. The study uses a toxin to ablate these cells, resulting in mice exhibiting cognitive deficits similar to those seen in aging humans.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

A deep look into the progression of Parkinson's Disease

A new study explores how alpha-synuclein disrupts metabolic processes in neurons. Researchers used NanoSIMS imaging techniques to visualize isotopic variations and found changes in carbon turnover, suggesting increased metabolic demands on affected cells.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateSep 28, 2023

Increased risk of depression and anxiety when in higher education

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health found a small increased risk of depression and anxiety among higher education students compared to their peers. By age 25, the difference had disappeared between graduates and non-graduates.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 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.

Decoding the complexity of Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers analyzed over 2 million cells from 400 postmortem brain samples to identify cellular pathways that could become new drug targets for Alzheimer's treatments. They found impairments in mitochondrial function, synaptic signaling, and protein complexes, as well as disrupted lipid metabolism.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateSep 28, 2023

Timing plant evolution with a fast-ticking epigenetic clock

Researchers discovered an epigenetic clock in plants that accurately tracks time over generations, shedding light on invasive species and human activities. The clock resolves divergence times of phylogenetic trees, providing a novel tool for dating plant clones.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2023

Cannabis use disorder may be linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease

A new study has found a significant association between cannabis use disorder and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease events such as heart attacks and strokes. Adults with cannabis use disorder in Canada experienced a 60% higher risk of first-time cardiovascular disease events compared to those without the disorder.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2023

What makes a carrot orange?

A genome study of over 600 carrot types finds that recessive genes controlling orange carotenoids are essential for the vegetable's orange color. The study also sheds light on carrot domestication in Western Asia and Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, respectively.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Plants·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 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.

Learning critical Black history can change white perspectives on racism in health care

A UCLA study found that exposure to critical Black history can contribute to white people's recognition of health disparities faced by Black Americans and lead to support for policies aimed at equity. The study also found that perspective-taking, regardless of instruction, leads to greater recognition of racism in healthcare.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·DateSep 28, 2023

Accounting for oxygen in modeling coastal ecosystems

Researchers say current models fail to project oxygen dynamics in coastal ecosystems with high photosynthetic activity, such as seagrass meadows and coral reefs. Fluctuations in oxygen levels have been observed in systems like the Venice Lagoon and Red Sea coral reefs, where marine species adapt to changing conditions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 28, 2023

Toxic formaldehyde’s dual nature to be probed with new chemical tool

Formaldehyde is a toxic chemical known to cause cancer but also plays an important role in human biology. New compounds developed by University of Leicester researchers allow for controlled release of formaldehyde in cells, enabling precise measurement of its effects.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

Through the backdoor: How phosphate escapes from actin

The discovery sheds light on the mechanism of phosphate release from actin filaments, which is crucial for cell movement and disassembly. The researchers found that phosphate escapes through a molecular backdoor in the filament core, but the door remains closed for most of the time.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

For the lonely, a blurred line between real and fictional people

Researchers found that lonely individuals' brains show a blurred boundary between real friends and favorite fictional characters, such as those in Game of Thrones. The study suggests that lonelier people may turn to fictional characters for a sense of belonging lacking in their real life.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

Researchers uncover why a gene mutant causes young children to have strokes

Researchers discovered that a mutation in the gene ACTA2 causes moyamoya disease and strokes in young children. The mutation leads to dysfunctional smooth muscle cells in arteries, resulting in blockages and increased risk of stroke. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new treatments for moyamoya disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateSep 28, 2023

Brief dialysis may be best for some kidney patients

A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that patients with acute kidney injury on outpatient dialysis may not need lifelong treatment if they have the potential to recover. The study tracked data from over 1,700 patients and showed that approximately three-quarters of those who recovered kidney function discontinued dialysis with...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 28, 2023

Boo to a goose - new animal behaviour tech aims to save wildlife

A new technology using facial recognition software is being used to monitor wildlife and improve animal welfare. The software was tested on Greylag Geese in Europe with 97% accuracy and found that geese approach images of their partners more quickly, giving friendly contact calls and feeding for longer.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Ornithology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

University of Cincinnati research shows widespread naloxone distribution not enough to impact overdose death rate

A recent study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that a community-wide naloxone distribution program did not significantly reduce opioid overdose deaths. The study, which ran from 2017 to 2019, saw no significant change in median monthly opioid overdose rates despite widespread availability of the medication.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2023

Novel battery technology with negligible voltage decay developed at CityU, a world’s first

A breakthrough in battery technology has been achieved by City University of Hong Kong, overcoming the persistent challenge of voltage decay in lithium-ion batteries. The new development stabilises a unique honeycomb-like structure within the cathode material, resulting in longer-lasting and more efficient batteries.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

Scientists unveil fire-safe fuel

Scientists at the University of California - Riverside have developed a fire-safe fuel that cannot ignite without an external electrical current. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the risk of wildfires and improve energy efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 28, 2023

Watch how hammerhead sharks get their hammer

Researchers have documented the development of bonnethead sharks, showing how their skulls widen and distort to form a hammer-like shape. The study provides insight into the formation of this unique feature, which is thought to amplify their field of vision and ability to detect prey.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalDevelopmental Dynamics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2023

Predicting condensate formation by cancer-associated fusion oncoproteins

A new study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital predicts the formation of condensates in cancer-associated fusion oncoproteins, which promotes cancer development. The researchers used machine learning to analyze biomolecular features and established a framework for understanding the mechanisms underlying oncogenic properties.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 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.

Ethics rules needed for human research on commercial spaceflights, panel says

A panel of experts recommends new guidelines for conducting ethical research on humans aboard commercial spaceflights, prioritizing social responsibility and scientific excellence while minimizing risks and balancing benefits. The guidelines aim to ensure that research benefits society at large and respects participants' autonomy.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 28, 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.

Study helps explain how COVID-19 heightens risk of heart attack and stroke

A new study reveals that COVID-19 triggers a dangerous immune response in hardened fatty deposits lining the heart's largest blood vessels. This inflammation can lead to immediate and longer-lasting heart issues, including plaque rupture and blockage of blood flow.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Fitness and staving off weight gain may be more important than weight loss for preventing kidney disease in obese adults, Drexel study says

A new study published in Obesity found that fitness and preventing weight gain may be more important than weight loss for preventing chronic kidney disease in obese adults. Weight gain was associated with a higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease, while low physical fitness was linked to rapid kidney function decline.

SourceDrexel University·JournalObesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 2023

Study reveals more depression in communities where people rarely left home during the COVID-19 pandemic

A study found that reduced mobility during the pandemic led to greater risk for depressive symptoms, even after controlling for local COVID-19 activity and other factors. The research suggests that increasing social engagement and limiting social isolation may be crucial for mitigating mental health impacts during future pandemics.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 2023

How parents’ work stress affects family mealtimes and children’s development

A new study from the University of Illinois found that children of parents with higher work-related stress have lower socioemotional competency at age 4-5. Meanwhile, mothers' job dissatisfaction does not impact family mealtimes, but fathers' financial dissatisfaction leads to reduced attendance and negative child development outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 28, 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.

Comprehensive treatment strategy could change CRC with SPM

A recent study from China found that comprehensive treatment, including CRS, chemotherapy, and HIPEC, significantly improved patient outcomes for CRC with SPM. Complete cytoreductive surgery was an independent predictor of improved survival. More research is needed to refine treatment strategies.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateSep 28, 2023

Study finds users prefer daily oral PrEP pill despite new options

A new study by UConn researchers found that patients overwhelmingly prefer the traditional daily oral PrEP pill over newer forms, citing its efficacy and minimal side effects as key factors. The study highlights the importance of addressing socioeconomic disparities to ensure equitable access to these life-saving technologies.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·TypeSurvey·DateSep 28, 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.

Elk hoof disease likely causes systemic changes

A study by Washington State University researchers found epigenetic alterations associated with elk treponeme-associated hoof disease, suggesting a systemic impact. The findings also suggest that the disease may be heritable, raising concerns about its transmission and susceptibility.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 28, 2023

A new twist on rechargeable battery performance

Scientists discovered that solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer behaves like a semiconductor, causing electron leakage and leading to inferior battery performance. Minimizing organic components in SEI enables longer-lasting batteries.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Dartmouth study removes human bias from debate over dinosaurs' demise

A new modeling method powered by interconnected processors removed human bias from the debate over dinosaurs' demise. The study suggests that the outpouring of climate-altering gases from the Deccan Traps alone could have been sufficient to trigger global extinction, consistent with volcanic eruptions contributing to the mass extinction.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 28, 2023

Intravenous immunoglobulin may prevent severe infections associated with anti-BCMA therapy for multiple myeloma

A retrospective analysis of 37 heavily pretreated multiple myeloma patients found that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) reduced the risk of severe infections by 90%. Patients with hypogammaglobulinemia experienced a higher rate of severe infections, and IVIg supplementation significantly mitigated this risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalBlood Cancer Discovery·DateSep 28, 2023

Intense lasers shine new light on the electron dynamics of liquids

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter demonstrated that intense laser fields can probe electron dynamics in liquids. The team found that the mechanism of high-harmonic generation is unique to liquids, with the maximum photon energy independent of laser wavelength.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 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.

Low-income communities face dual barriers to maternity care access

Research highlights the challenges of rural hospital-based maternity unit closures and transportation barriers, leading to delays in care and adverse outcomes. The study suggests that telehealth services can provide a solution to address these disparities in maternal health outcomes.

SourceArnold School of Public Health·JournalThe Milbank Quarterly·DateSep 28, 2023

Accelerating sustainable semiconductors with ‘multielement ink’

Researchers have developed a new semiconducting material called multielement ink that can be processed at low temperatures, paving the way for more sustainable semiconductor industry. The breakthrough enables faster and lower-energy production of semiconductors, which could significantly reduce carbon emissions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Solving a sticky, life-threatening problem

Researchers have discovered a unique adhesin in Candida auris that enables it to stick to surfaces and cause disease. The study found that this adhesin, SCF1, is essential for colonization and virulence, suggesting a potential target for anti-fungal therapy.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2023

Fish reveal cause of altered human facial development

Researchers tested five chemicals on zebrafish embryos and found that all caused impaired migration of bone-forming cells, leading to facial malformation. The study suggests a potential general mechanism underlying teratogenic chemicals and proposes using zebrafish as an alternative method for testing cross-species teratogens.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalToxicological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Characterization and expansion of the recognition sequence of phosphorothioate-DNA recognizing sulfur binding domains facilitate new nucleic acid detection platform

Researchers developed a high-resolution technique SBS-seq to characterize the complete sequence-range of sulfur binding domains, enabling a new nucleic acid detection platform. The technique employed tandem PT-modifications to improve binding affinity and extend the sequence-range of SBDs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateSep 28, 2023

New study examines pros, cons of advanced maternal age

A new study examines the pros and cons of advanced maternal age, finding that while older mothers face increased risks, they also have significant advantages due to their socioeconomic status. The research aims to untangle the truth about this complex issue by investigating how biomedical knowledge is produced and disseminated.

SourceArnold School of Public Health·DateSep 28, 2023

Tetris to the rescue of women having experienced a traumatic birth: A large-scale study confirms its effectiveness for prevention

A large-scale study confirms that playing Tetris for fifteen minutes can prevent psychological trauma in mothers after a difficult birth. The therapeutic activity was found to interfere with memory consolidation of traumatic images, thereby preventing the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms linked to childbirth.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 28, 2023

Parkinson’s: Are our neurons more vulnerable at night?

A UNIGE team investigated the destruction of neurons at different times of the day using fruit fly models and found that cellular stress was more deleterious to neurons at night. This suggests that the circadian clock exerts a protective effect on dopaminergic neurons against oxidative stress.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateSep 28, 2023

Liver fibrosis: Giant cells step in to compensate for impaired immune function

A team of researchers has uncovered a previously unknown compensatory mechanism found in liver disease. Giant cell clusters, formed by immune cells from the bone marrow, take over the filtration function of impaired Kupffer cells. This finding changes the way we think about the role of the immune system in liver fibrosis.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Biological particles play crucial role in Arctic cloud ice formation

Researchers found a significant connection between biological particles and the formation of ice in Arctic clouds. The study's innovative approach revealed correlations with variables like snow cover and temperature, shedding light on the prevalence of fungal spores and their impact on climate models.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 2023

Soil bacteria prevail despite drought conditions

Recent research reveals that certain soil microorganisms persist and even thrive during drought periods, influencing ecosystem balance and plant growth. A novel method using water vapor measurement indicates that specific bacterial species become more active under simulated future climatic conditions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 28, 2023