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Science News for April 19, 2024


Wearable technology assesses surgeons’ posture during surgery

Researchers developed a wearable technology system to monitor surgeons' postures during long surgical procedures, finding that 52.1% of active time was spent in static postures. The study showed potential for improving ergonomics and preventing injuries by providing objective feedback on posture correction.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery Spine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Glial hyper-drive for triggering epileptic seizures

Astrocyte activity starts approximately 20 seconds before epileptic neuronal hyperactivity, suggesting their role in triggering seizures. Researchers found that blocking metabolic activity of astrocytes reduces the magnitude of epileptic neuronal hyperactivity.

SourceTohoku University·JournalGlia·DateApr 19, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Light show in living cells

Researchers at CeMM Research Center create 'vpCells' method for simultaneous fluorescent labelling of many proteins, enabling precise tracking and exploration of protein function. The approach opens up new applications in fundamental cell biology and drug discovery.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 19, 2024

UBC research helps migrating salmon survive mortality hot-spot

A study by UBC researchers found that only 40% of coho salmon remained alive three kilometers from release, and fewer than one-quarter reached the Lions Gate Bridge 20 kilometers away. The 'mortality hot-spot' was confirmed in Burrard Inlet, but the research also suggests ways to increase survival rates through changing release locations.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNorth American Journal of Fisheries Management·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024

Tumor deposits in colorectal and gastric cancers

Research identifies tumor deposits as detrimental to CRC and GC patients' survival, emphasizing the need for thorough retrieval and aggressive adjuvant therapy. Preoperative detection methods are being developed using new imaging technologies and AI, aiming to improve early evaluation of tumors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalMedicine Plus·DateApr 19, 2024

URI-led team finds direct evidence of ‘itinerant breeding’ in East Coast shorebird species

A study led by the University of Rhode Island found that the American woodcock, a migratory shorebird, overlaps its migration and reproductive periods. The bird was found to nest multiple times during migration, with some females nesting up to six times, allowing them to reduce energy costs.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

The Italian central Apennines as a source of CO2

Researchers found that weathering in the region leads to an overall CO2 uptake, but near-surface processes only determine the CO2 balance in areas with a thick and cold crust. In contrast, the western side of the Central Apennines is a significant CO2 emitter due to deep-seated outgassing from carbonate rocks.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Warming of Antarctic deep-sea waters contribute to sea level rise in North Atlantic, study finds

A new study found that human-induced environmental changes around Antarctica are contributing to sea level rise in the North Atlantic. The research team analyzed two decades of oceanographic data and found a 12% weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation deep water limb.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2024

Weather prediction models can also forecast satellite displacements

Researchers found that modern weather models can accurately predict satellite movements affected by weather events like tropical cyclones with tall clouds. This understanding enhances satellite tracking and control, improving efficiency and reliability of satellite operations.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

The biggest barrier to a vibrant second-hand EV market? Price

A Rutgers study reveals that price is the biggest barrier to a vibrant second-hand EV market, with lower-income buyers often priced out of the market. The study suggests that increasing charging station availability and expanding subsidies could promote greater used EV uptake across income groups.

SourceRutgers University·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateApr 19, 2024

Climate change will increase value of residential rooftop solar panels across US, study shows

A new study led by the University of Michigan predicts that climate change will increase the financial benefits of residential rooftop solar panels in the US, with households potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually. The study found that increased cooling demand due to warmer temperatures and rising air conditioning needs will d...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 19, 2024

Studying optimization for neuromorphic imaging and digital twins

The project aims to establish a first-of-its-kind lab for neuromorphic imaging and digital twins at George Mason University. This will support research, local organizations, and beyond, with potential applications in fields like Air Force, Space Force, Civil Engineering, Machine Learning.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

KAIST develops sodium battery capable of rapid charging in just a few seconds​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a hybrid sodium-ion battery with high energy and power density, enabling rapid charging in under a few seconds. The new battery technology has the potential to revolutionize energy storage for electric vehicles and other applications.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 19, 2024

Record-breaking heat and humidity predicted for tropics this summer

Climate scientists predict a 7 in 10 chance of record-breaking temperatures and humidity in the tropics, threatening humanitarian aid and medical care. El Niño's impact on tropical heat and humidity is expected to compound the effects of global warming, leading to extreme humid heat stress.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2024

UC Santa Cruz scientists reveal new path to increasing lactation for nursing mothers

Researchers identified an enzyme called WEE1 that promotes the generation of more milk-producing cells by halting cell division at just the right time. This process, known as endoreplication, generates cells with double the normal complement of DNA, leading to increased milk production.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

A new therapeutic target for traumatic brain injury

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified a blood coagulation protein, fibrin, as the culprit behind toxic inflammation and neuron loss after a major head injury. This finding can inform new treatment strategies for traumatic brain injuries, which often lead to dementia, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Energy scientists unravel the mystery of gold’s glow

Researchers at EPFL have developed a comprehensive model of the quantum-mechanical effects behind photoluminescence in thin gold films, which could drive the development of solar fuels and batteries. The study reveals unexpected quantum effects emerging in films as thin as 40 nanometers.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Accelerating the discovery of new materials via the ion-exchange method

A new method using computer simulations predicts the feasibility of materials suited for ion exchange, allowing for the synthesis of new compounds at relatively low temperatures. This advancement accelerates the development of new materials suitable for improved energy technologies.

SourceTohoku University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateApr 19, 2024

AATS and CRF® partner on New York Valves: The structural heart summit

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) and Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF) will collaborate on the development of New York Valves 2024, focusing on advances in surgical approaches and techniques in valve disease. The summit will feature expert discussions, live-case demonstrations, and hands-on training.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateApr 19, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Black women hospitalised in USA with blood infection resistant to last-resort antibiotic at increased risk of death

A recent study published at the ESCIMD Global Congress found that Black female patients are at higher risk of death from carbapenem-resistant enterobacterales (CRE) bloodstream infections. The study analyzed data from 362 US hospital patients and discovered that Black females had a significantly increased risk of mortality compared to ...

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 19, 2024

Ghost particle on the scales

Researchers have made groundbreaking measurements of the electron capture of the artificial isotope holmium-163, which allows them to determine a Q value for the decay process. This enabled them to measure the neutrino mass with unprecedented precision using a super-sensitive scale and detector.

SourceMax-Planck-Institut fur Kernphysik·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Study opens new avenue for immunotherapy drug development

Researchers at University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have developed a new method for developing immunotherapy drugs using engineered peptides. The approach improved tumor control and prolonged survival in preclinical models of breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Defect removal of 2D semiconductor crystals

Researchers at DGIST developed a method to fixate chemisorbed oxygen molecules via h-BN encapsulation, leading to passivation of 2D semiconductor crystals. This approach can revolutionize the control of defect states in these materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 19, 2024

DGIST develops world’s best performance technology for aerial and satellite image extraction through industry-academic cooperation with Dabeeo Inc.

Researchers at DGIST developed a neural network module called DG-Net, which can accurately extract objects from aerial and satellite imagery. The technology has shown exceptional accuracy in geographic spatial object segmentation, outperforming existing models.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateApr 19, 2024

COVID-19 increases the risk of severe cardiovascular problems in people with HIV

A study by Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute reveals that people living with HIV who contract COVID-19 face a significant increase in cardiovascular disease risk. The researchers identified several factors associated with this increased risk, including age, previous cardiovascular disease, and chronic conditions.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Some plant-based steaks and cold cuts are lacking in protein

A study published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that plant-based steaks and cold cuts have varying levels of protein quality and digestibility. The nutritional value depends on the plants used to create them, with some showing comparable profiles to their meat counterparts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 19, 2024

Could the liver hold the key to better cancer treatments?

Researchers discovered that liver cells secrete SAA proteins, which hinder T cell infiltration and attack tumors. Deleting SAA proteins increased survival times and likelihood of cures in mice with pancreatic tumors.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateApr 19, 2024

Linkable and traceable anonymous authentication with fine-grained access control

A new research scheme addresses the limitations of previous anonymous authentication methods, providing both public linking and tracing capabilities while ensuring access control. The proposed scheme enables accountability without relying on a trusted authority, making it feasible for future multi-authority extensions.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Surprising reversal in quantum systems

Scientists at ETH Zurich create an artificial solid with switched-on interactions using magnetic fields, observing surprising topological effects. The study reveals the ability to transport particles by one lattice site, mimicking a screw's motion, and demonstrates robustness against disorder.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

New UNC-Chapel Hill study examines the increased adoption of they/them pronouns

A new study by UNC-Chapel Hill researcher Jennifer E. Arnold examines how people use 'they/them' pronouns in a spoken storytelling context. The findings show that college-aged speakers are able to adopt and use nonbinary 'they' with ease, suggesting a natural process of language change.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalGlossa Psycholinguistics·DateApr 19, 2024

Lemur’s lament: When one vulnerable species stalks another

Researchers observed a rare instance of lemur predation by a fosa in the Betampona Strict Nature Reserve. The impact of this predation, combined with low reproductive rates and genetic isolation, poses significant threats to the survival of critically endangered lemurs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024

New copper-catalyzed C-H activation strategy from Scripps Research

Scripps Research chemists develop a new set of copper-catalyzed reactions for building and modifying pharmaceuticals. The two-mode approach, inspired by human detox enzymes, offers a simple and efficient method for performing dehydrogenations and lactonizations on inexpensive starting compounds.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2024

Scientists trigger mini-earthquakes in the lab

Researchers at the Universiteit van Amsterdam triggered mini-earthquakes in a lab by applying a small seismic wave to a granular material. The study shows that these events can be understood using laboratory-scale frictional experiments, and its findings are relevant for understanding remote earthquake triggering in larger faults.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Surf clams off the coast of Virginia reappear – and rebound

Rutgers scientists found thriving and growing surfclam populations off the coast of Virginia, with characteristics similar to those in New Jersey. The study suggests improved environmental conditions or adaptation may be responsible for the rebound.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Baby sharks prefer being closer to shore, show scientists

In a groundbreaking study, scientists found that juvenile great white sharks prefer warm and shallow waters near the shore, often within 1 km of land. This behavior may help them evade predators and optimize growth efficiency in these nurseries.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Toxic chemicals from microplastics can be absorbed through skin

Research found that chemicals present in microplastics can leach into human sweat and be absorbed through the skin, entering the bloodstream. The study used innovative 3D human skin models to demonstrate this process, revealing that up to 8% of the chemical exposed could be taken up by the skin.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEnvironment International·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Technical Trials for Easing the (Cosmological) Tension

A new study has sorted through models attempting to solve the cosmological tension, a discrepancy between two ways of calculating the universe's expansion. Three models that were previously viable solutions were excluded by the new data, while others reduced the tension but not solved it.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

How reflecting on gratitude received from family can make you a better leader

Research from the University of Florida shows that leaders reflecting on family gratitude experience higher levels of prosocial impact, motivating them to engage in helpful behavior towards employees. This reflection practice can be incorporated into daily routines, promoting a positive work environment.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateApr 19, 2024

The mechanism of SlWRKY80 participating in salt alkali stress through its involvement in JA metabolic pathway

SlWRKY80 plays a crucial role in regulating tomato resistance to saline-alkali stress by positively modulating the JA metabolic pathway. The protein enhances spermidine synthesis and stabilizes Na+/K+ homeostasis, leading to reduced sensitivity to salt alkali stress.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

ORNL researchers win Best Paper award for nickel-based alloy tailoring

Researchers developed a compositionally graded nickel-based alloy for high-temperature applications, outperforming coated materials. The new alloy design reduces environmental degradation and thermal instability, increasing efficiency and lifespan.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

NEC Society Statement on the Watson vs. Mead Johnson Verdict

The Necrotizing Enterocolitis Society has released a statement on the Watson vs Mead Johnson verdict, highlighting the devastating impact of NEC on premature and medically fragile infants. The organization emphasizes the importance of adequate nutrition and protective care practices to prevent NEC.

SourceNecrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 19, 2024

ChatGPT extracts data for ischaemic stroke almost perfectly

Researchers at Universitatsklinikum Bonn found that ChatGPT can correctly extract 94% of data entries from thrombectomy reports without post-processing. The AI outperformed human expertise in this task, suggesting its potential as an alternative to manual data transfer

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalRadiology·DateApr 19, 2024

Jumbo discovery: astronomers offer new model for formation of recently discovered “free-floating” planets

Researchers introduce a new model that suggests dense stellar clusters can eject pairs of giant planets, which remain gravitationally bound to each other as they float through space. This discovery fills a critical gap in our understanding of planetary evolution and challenges prevailing theories of planet formation.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Older adults in Ohio are among the most vulnerable to extreme weather

A recent study found that nearly 1 in 5 older adults in central Ohio report not being prepared for emergencies, with those in lower-income counties facing the greatest challenges. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, such as tax levies and education on climate risks, to protect vulnerable populations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2024

Mapping plant functional diversity from space: HKU ecologists revolutionize ecosystem monitoring with novel field-satellite integration

Researchers led by Professor Jin Wu at HKU have developed a method to map plant functional traits from space using time-series satellite data. The approach combines vegetation spectroscopy and phenology, providing insights into ecosystem functioning and biodiversity.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Wayne State researcher aims to improve coding peer review practices

A Wayne State University researcher is working to transform code review tools and workflows to address participants' challenges in understanding and communicating code changes. The goal is to produce high-quality feedback using empirical methods, machine learning, and natural language techniques.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateApr 19, 2024

Realization of an ideal omnidirectional cloak in free space

The team designed a full-parameter omnidirectional planar invisibility cloak composed of two homogeneous materials, achieving omnidirectional impedance matching and zero phase delay. The cloak demonstrated excellent invisibility performance in experimental verification, making it suitable for radar communication and bistatic detection.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 19, 2024

Shoe technology reduces risk of diabetic foot ulcers

Researchers have developed a pressure-alternating shoe insole that provides periods of rest to the soft tissues, thereby reducing the risk of diabetic foot ulcers. This innovative technology aims to mitigate the risk of complications from poor circulation and foot sores.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalThe International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Which countries are more at risk in the global supply chain?

Researchers analyzed firm-level data from the global supply network, revealing that wealthy nations are only exposed to supply chain disruptions from other high-income countries. Poor and developing nations are disproportionately affected by economic shocks due to their structural embeddedness in their local or national supply chains.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 19, 2024

New compound from blessed thistle promotes functional nerve regeneration

Researchers at University of Cologne discover Cnicin, a plant-based compound that significantly accelerates axon growth in animal models and human cells. This breakthrough has the potential to treat paralysis and neuropathy by enabling nerves to regenerate more quickly.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalPhytomedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

ACP issues clinical recommendations for newer diabetes treatments

The American College of Physicians recommends adding SGLT-2 and GLP-1 agonists to metformin in adults with Type 2 diabetes for improved cardiovascular outcomes. The guidelines prioritize shared decision-making, considering individual patient characteristics and values.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateApr 19, 2024

Signs of multiple sclerosis show up in blood years before symptoms

Scientists have identified a consistent signature of multiple sclerosis in the blood of patients years before they develop symptoms. The discovery, published in Nature Medicine, could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of the disease, affecting nearly 1 million people in the US.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 19, 2024

Compact quantum light processing

Researchers have achieved quantum interference among several single photons using a novel, resource-efficient platform, paving the way for scalable quantum technologies. This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in optical quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 19, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.