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Science News Archive April 2024 - Page 28


Page 28 of 41

Researchers discover how we perceive bitter taste

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered the detailed protein structure of the TAS2R14 bitter taste receptor, revealing how it identifies and activates bitter tastants. The discovery has potential applications in drug development for metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature·DateApr 10, 2024

Researchers explore role of androgens in shaping sex differences

A team of researchers used a single-cell transcriptomic map to investigate the role of androgens in shaping sex differences. They identified genes influenced by androgens and found that group 2 innate lymphoid cells play a role in inflammation and disease susceptibility.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateApr 10, 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.

New insight into combatting drug-resistant prostate cancer

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland have identified coregulator proteins as an alternative target to prevent drug resistance in prostate cancer. By inhibiting these proteins, the growth of drug-resistant cancer cells can be inhibited, and the activity of the glucocorticoid receptor can be limited.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateApr 10, 2024

A new coating method in mRNA engineering points the way to advanced therapies

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a novel method for coating engineered messenger RNA molecules with polyethylene glycol (PEG), allowing selective delivery to the spleen. This breakthrough enables fine-tuned control over mRNA therapy, facilitating effective treatment of diseases previously considered inc...

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalSmall Science·DateApr 10, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UC Irvine researchers find new origin of deep brain waves

UCI researchers have found that axons in the hippocampus play a role in generating slow waves and sleep spindles, crucial for deep sleep. The study suggests that these oscillations occur independently of neuronal spiking activity, offering new insights into memory processing during sleep.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 10, 2024

Esketamine injection just after childbirth reduces depression in new mothers

A single low dose injection of esketamine given immediately after childbirth reduces major depressive episodes in individuals with depressive symptoms during pregnancy. The results suggest that low dose esketamine should be considered in new mothers with prenatal depressive symptoms, potentially preventing one major depressive episode ...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 10, 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.

Newly found genetic variant defends against Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered a genetic variant in the fibronectin gene that protects against Alzheimer's disease. The variant, found in APOEe4 carriers, reduces the odds of developing Alzheimer's by up to 70% and may help prevent or treat the disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeObservational study·DateApr 10, 2024

Ants in Colorado are on the move due to climate change

A new study found that climate change has led to changes in ant species in Gregory Canyon, Colorado, with some species expanding their habitats and others becoming less widespread. The research suggests that these changes could have implications for ecosystem stability and biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEcology·DateApr 10, 2024

Characterization of mutational “coldspots” in the cancer genome

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified 'coldspots' in the cancer genome with lower mutation rates, linked to low DNA methylation. This discovery could facilitate targeted therapies and diagnostic tools to monitor specific genomic regions and prevent cancer development.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 10, 2024

New mechanism discovered for the life-threatening arrhythmias in Andersen-Tawil syndrome

Researchers have discovered a direct link between the C122Y mutation in the Kir2.1 potassium channel and life-threatening arrhythmias in Andersen-Tawil syndrome, which affects fewer than 1 in a million people. The study highlights the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac arrhythmias.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalCirculation Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 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.

US building footprints could help identify neighborhood sociodemographic traits

A new study analyzing building footprints in US metropolitan areas identifies five distinct neighborhood types associated with varying socioeconomic and demographic traits. These neighborhoods differ in footprint size, shape, and placement, reflecting differences in population density, homeownership rates, and commuting habits.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 10, 2024

The evolving attitudes of Gen X toward evolution

As Gen X individuals aged, their attitudes toward evolution solidified, with education and civic scientific literacy strong predictors of increased acceptance. Fundamentalist religious beliefs were associated with rejection of evolution.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateApr 10, 2024

How a new drug prototype regenerates lung tissue

A team of scientists at Scripps Research and Calibr-Skaggs Institute has developed a lung-targeted drug to stimulate the growth of lung stem cells. The new findings provide a biological proof of concept for activating regenerative pathways and restoring damaged lung tissue.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 10, 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.

A promising target for new RNA therapeutics now accessible

Researchers have identified the first inhibitors of the cancer-related RNA-modifier METTL16, which prevent its interaction with RNA. This breakthrough lays the foundation for novel RNA-targeting therapeutics and better investigation of METTL16's role in disease and health.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2024

How is green and sustainable agriculture evolving in youngest province of China?

A study in Hainan Province, China, evaluates the progress of green and sustainable agriculture, finding improvements in socioeconomic development and agricultural productivity. However, environmental degradation remains a challenge, with high resource input and waste management issues hindering sustainable development.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2024

Smart vest turns fish into underwater spies: a glimpse into aquatic life like never before

Researchers have developed an innovative underwater vest that captures disturbances in water flow caused by fish movements, enabling precise monitoring of their natural behaviors. The device's pseudocapacitive pressure-sensing units offer a robust and noninvasive approach to studying aquatic behaviors.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateApr 10, 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.

New strategy for assessing the applicability of reactions

Chemists develop new reactions using model systems and substrates to demonstrate versatility. A new computer-aided method reduces subjective bias by analyzing real pharmaceutical compounds' complexity and structural properties. This improves data quality and facilitates machine learning applications.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalACS Central Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 10, 2024

NTU Singapore researchers develop a method to extract useful proteins from beer-brewing leftovers

Researchers from NTU Singapore have created a method to extract over 80% of the available protein in grain leftovers from brewing beer, commonly known as brewers' spent grain. The extracted proteins could be used commercially to enrich human diets and cosmetic products, providing an eco-friendly alternative to conventional ingredients.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalInnovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 10, 2024

New approach needed to save Australia’s non-perennial rivers

A review of current research on Australia's non-perennial rivers highlights the need for a new type of research attention due to emerging threats from climate change and human impacts. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing knowledge gaps to preserve and protect these vital waterways.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 10, 2024
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.

AI makes retinal imaging 100 times faster, compared to manual method

Researchers at NIH developed a novel AI-based method called P-GAN to improve next-generation imaging of cells in the retina. The technique reduces imaging acquisition and processing time by 100-fold, yielding greater contrast and improving image quality.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2024

Studies uncovered why urine sprayed by cats emits a pungent odor

Researchers found that feline sprayed urine originates solely from the bladder, but its strong and pungent odor is caused by enhanced adhesion to vertical surfaces. The specific urinary protein cauxin plays a crucial role in scent marking by producing cat-specific odorants and increasing wettability of sprayed urine.

SourceIwate University, Japan·JournalJournal of Chemical Ecology·TypeNews article·DateApr 10, 2024

Experiencing racial discrimination impacts the mental health of teens in the U.S. justice system

A new study by SMU psychologists reveals that interpersonal racial discrimination has a significant impact on the mental health of adolescents in the US justice system. The research emphasizes the importance of considering these intersecting factors when providing support systems to meet the unique needs of adolescents of color.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateApr 10, 2024

Filling in genomic blanks for disease studies works better for some groups than others

A new study from the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that genome-wide association studies' imputation technique works better for European, African American, and Latino groups than others. The researchers evaluated over 100 global populations, finding that imputation is less reliable for those farther away from Europe.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 10, 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.

Breakthrough for next-generation digital displays

Researchers at Linképing University have developed a digital display screen where LEDs react to touch, light, fingerprints, and the user's pulse, among other things. The screen can also be charged through the screen due to its ability to act as solar cells.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Electronics·DateApr 10, 2024
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.

Waterproof ‘e-glove’ could help scuba divers communicate

Researchers have developed a waterproof 'e-glove' that transmits hand gestures made underwater to a computer, translating them into messages with 99.8% accuracy. The technology could help scuba divers communicate better with each other and boat crews on the surface.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 10, 2024

Air pollution data could be used to plan better transit routes

Researchers from USP produced maps showing areas of highest air pollution concentration and peak emissions periods; bus drivers have higher exposure levels than car or subway users. The study also found that green spaces have the best air quality, while high-rise buildings negatively affect dispersion.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateApr 10, 2024

Connecting lab-grown brain cells provides insight into how our own brains work

Researchers at The University of Tokyo successfully connected lab-grown brain-mimicking tissue using axonal bundles, mimicking natural brain connections. This breakthrough enables the study of complex brain networks and their role in various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2024

3D mouth of an ancient jawless fish suggests they were filter-feeders, not scavengers or hunters

Researchers have reconstructed the mouth of an ancient jawless fish using CT scanning techniques, suggesting it was a filter-feeder rather than a scavenger or hunter. The study reveals that early vertebrates had a diverse range of feeding behaviors before jawed animals evolved.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 10, 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.

The RUBY reporter for visual selection in soybean genome editing

The RUBY reporter uses a vivid red betalain pigment to visually confirm gene expression in soybean plants, allowing for quick assessment of genetic modifications. Transgene-free homozygous mutants exhibit distinct green coloration, simplifying selection from transformed seedlings.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalaBIOTECH·DateApr 10, 2024

Enhancing radiative cooling with aperture mirror structures

Researchers demonstrate how a simple mirror design can amplify radiative cooling processes for buildings. The mirror structure effectively guides thermal radiation towards the most transmissive portion of the atmosphere, increasing cooling power.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateApr 10, 2024

Treating gum disease after heart rhythm ablation reduced risk of AFib recurrence

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that treating gum disease after a heart rhythm ablation procedure can lower oral inflammation and reduce the risk of AFib recurrence. Researchers found that an index measuring the severity of gum inflammation was associated with the return of AFib, highligh...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 10, 2024

Study suggests racial discrimination during midlife associated with Alzheimer’s disease pathology later in life

A new study found a link between midlife racial discrimination and increased levels of Alzheimer's disease markers, including phosphorylated tau181 and neurofilament light, in older age. Researchers analyzed data from 255 Black Americans over 17 years, revealing that chronic stress from racism contributed to dementia risk.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateApr 10, 2024

Ultrafast laser state active controlling based on anisotropic quasi-1D material

Researchers achieve tunable ultrafast laser state active controlling by utilizing anisotropic quasi-1D material Ta2PdS6. The material enables the sustainment of two distinct laser states: conventional soliton (CS) and noise-like pulse (NLP). Numerical simulation reveals the mechanism behind the switchable laser state.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateApr 10, 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.

Somatic copy number alterations and mutation landscape in before and post-treatment malignant rhabdoid tumor

This study evaluated somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) and mutation landscapes in malignant rhabdoid tumors before and after treatment. The results revealed recurrent SCNAs harboring genes involved in tumorigenesis, with some correlations between gene expression and tumor progression.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateApr 10, 2024

AI powered “digital twin” models the infant microbiome

A new generative AI tool models the infant microbiome, predicting neurodevelopmental deficits. The Q-net model predicts which babies are at risk for cognitive deficits with high accuracy, identifying potential treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 10, 2024

Pacific cities much older than previously thought

A new study from Australian National University reveals that Pacific cities were established around AD 300, 700 years earlier than previously thought. This discovery sheds light on the indigenous innovation of urbanisation in the Pacific, which developed before Western influence.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory·TypeObservational study·DateApr 10, 2024

Mechanism of action of the hepatitis B and D virus cell entry inhibitor bulevirtide deciphered

Researchers deciphered the molecular structure of bulevirtide in complex with HBV/HDV receptor NTCP, revealing a unique 'plug' that inhibits virus entry. The study also sheds light on evolutionary adaptation of HBVs to host species and provides insights for developing smaller, more effective active agents.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 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.

FAPESP seeks to increase research collaboration with the US Midwest

FAPESP aims to create new opportunities for scientific and technological cooperation between researchers from Brazil and the US Midwest, focusing on areas such as health, sustainability, and climate change. The initiative also promotes transdisciplinary research collaborations to address global challenges.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateApr 10, 2024

Why won’t some people use a smartphone? And is that difficult?

Researchers from Aalto University found that individuals who gave up their smartphones had to adapt to life without the convenience of mobile apps. They employed technical workarounds such as using stand-alone devices or borrowing friends' phones to overcome limitations in daily life.

SourceAalto University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateApr 10, 2024
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.

Economic wealth may be linked with happiness in China – if inequality is low

A new study from China found that higher GDP per capita and lower income inequality are associated with increased subjective well-being. However, when income inequality becomes too high, the link between economy and mental health disappears. The researchers advocate for a balanced approach to economic planning.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateApr 10, 2024

How autocrats control internet traffic out of sight

Researchers found that autocratic regimes have a higher degree of control over transit networks, enabling state-led monitoring and control of internet traffic. This is achieved through state-owned entities dominating transit networks in poorer but politically similar countries.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 10, 2024

More than half a million global stroke deaths may be tied to climate change

A study found an association between climate change and stroke deaths, with most strokes linked to lower-than-optimal temperatures. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the impact of temperature changes on stroke and potential health policies to address climate-related health inequalities.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 10, 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.

Indigenous Australian message sticks, which feature markings to convey messages over long distances, analyzed for first time at scale through new database of 1,500 artifacts

A new database of 1,500 Indigenous Australian message sticks has been analyzed for the first time, revealing details about the symbols and markings used to convey messages over long distances. The study provides valuable insights into the ancient communication methods employed by Australia's indigenous peoples.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 10, 2024