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Science News Archive September 2023 - Page 3


Page 3 of 37

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
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.

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

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
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.

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

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
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.

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

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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
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.

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
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

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

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