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Science News for August 2, 2024


High density carbon tube nanoarray design miniaturize filter capacitors

Researchers designed high-density three-dimensional carbon tube nanoarray electrodes to improve the performance of filter capacitors. The nanoarray devices achieved exceptional frequency response and low equivalent series resistance, surpassing commercial aluminum electrolytic capacitors.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNano-Micro Letters·DateAug 2, 2024

Not the day after tomorrow: Why we can't predict the timing of climate tipping points

A new study shows that predicting exact tipping times for critical Earth system components is challenging due to large uncertainties. The authors identified three primary sources of uncertainty and found that predicted tipping times for the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) ranged from 2050 to 8065.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 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.

More pets relinquished to shelters due to housing insecurity

A new study finds that housing-related companion animal relinquishment increased across 21 US shelters from 2019-2023, while pet restrictions and conflicts declined. Housing insecurity worsens despite pet-inclusive policies, leaving owners with devastating choices.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2024

A blueprint for building the future: Eco-friendly 3D concrete printing

A UVA research team introduces a game-changing additive to 3D-printed concrete, enhancing its printability and mechanical properties. The study demonstrates the potential for more resilient and eco-friendly construction practices using cellulose nanofibrils.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalCement and Concrete Composites·DateAug 2, 2024

White Matter May Aid Recovery From Spinal Cord Injuries: Study

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have detected strong white matter signals in the spinal cord that promote nerve regeneration and healing after injury. These signals are comparable to those seen in gray matter, which enables targeted delivery of electromagnetic stimuli or drugs to restore nerve activity.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 2, 2024

Healthy AI: Sustainable artificial intelligence for healthcare

A research review by Osaka Metropolitan University suggests developing energy-efficient AI models, green computing, and renewable energy to mitigate the environmental costs of AI in radiology. The study proposes guidelines for medical institutions and policymakers to operate AI systems in an environmentally responsible manner.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalDiagnostic and Interventional Imaging·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 2, 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.

Causality-inspired method boosts crop pest recognition

A new method, Decoupled Feature Learning (DFL), addresses distribution bias in crop pest recognition by applying causal inference techniques. The approach achieved high recognition accuracies of 95.33%, 92.59%, and 74.86% on three datasets.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalPest Management Science·DateAug 2, 2024

Prescription fills for semaglutide products

The number of semaglutide prescriptions filled reached 2.6 million in 2023, with Wegovy accounting for most fills since its approval in June 2021. Most Wegovy fills were among commercially insured populations, despite the disproportionate burden of obesity in Medicaid and Medicare Part D.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateAug 2, 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.

Advanced electrohydrodynamics pump model developed for ultra-compact gas lasers

Researchers developed a coupling analysis model for multi-needle Electrohydrodynamics (EHD) pumps, addressing application challenges in ultra-compact gas lasers. The study revealed the flow characteristics and control laws of EHD pumps, providing guidance for practical design and applications.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateAug 2, 2024

Machine learning: Geometry ensures more reliable results

A new research consortium aims to improve the reliability of machine learning systems by using geometric methods to prevent adversarial attacks. The project, GeoMAR, will explore ways to feed neural networks with erroneous data during training to prepare them for real-world scenarios.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateAug 2, 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.

New insights into neutron irradiation damage in high-power thyristors enhance fusion reactor safety

Researchers investigated the effects of neutron irradiation on high-power thyristors used in quench protection systems for Tokamak fusion devices. The study revealed that neutron exposure can lead to increased leakage current and degradation of electrical performance, posing a risk to reactor safety.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·DateAug 2, 2024

Cold antimatter for quantum state-resolved precision measurements

The BASE collaboration has developed a trap that can cool individual antiprotons much more rapidly than in the past, allowing for precise measurements of their magnetic moment and spin. This breakthrough enables researchers to identify possible matter-antimatter asymmetries and improve the accuracy of measurements by a factor of 1000.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 2, 2024

Synthesis of SiOC@C ceramic nanospheres with tunable electromagnetic wave absorption performance

Scientists from Jingdezhen Ceramic University and Zhejiang Sci-Tech University synthesized SiOC@C ceramic nanospheres with tunable electromagnetic wave absorption performance using a liquid phase method. The material exhibits improved electromagnetic wave attenuation ability, outperforming previous PDC-SiOC ceramics.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Ceramics·DateAug 2, 2024

Mast cells trap and use living neutrophils during allergic reactions

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute discovered that mast cells can trap and recycle neutrophils, which are normally frontline defenders against infections. This unexpected interaction reveals a new layer to our understanding of allergic reactions and inflammation.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 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.

New study highlights scale and impact of long COVID

The review paper examines the scope of people affected by long COVID, ranging from fatigue to cognitive impairment, and current treatment options. Researchers emphasize the need for biomarkers and targeted therapies to address root causes of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2024

Subclinical hypothyroidism in early pregnancy associated with more than quadrupled risk of reduced thyroid function within 5 years of delivery

A new study found that subclinical hypothyroidism before 21 weeks of pregnancy is associated with a more than quadrupled risk of overt hypothyroidism or thyroid replacement therapy within 5 years of delivery. Individuals with higher levels of antibodies against a thyroid enzyme were also at increased risk.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalThyroid·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 2, 2024

Scientists pin down the origins of the moon’s tenuous atmosphere

A new study by MIT and University of Chicago scientists pin down the origins of the moon's tenuous atmosphere, finding that meteorite impacts are the primary process. Over billions of years, these constant impacts have kicked up lunar soil, vaporizing certain atoms and lofting particles into a thin atmosphere.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 2, 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.

Coinfecting viruses impede each other’s ability to enter cells

Researchers used advanced techniques to study phage infection at the level of individual bacterial cells. They found that coinfecting phages impede each other's entry, perturbing the cell's electrophysiology and affecting the outcome of infection. This discovery opens a new avenue for research in bacterial electrophysiology.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2024

Nonfatal firearm injuries 10 times more frequent among Black Americans than White in 2019 and 2020

Researchers from Penn Medicine found that nonfatal firearm injuries were 10 times more frequent among Black Americans than White individuals in 2019 and 2020. The highest rate of firearm injuries was observed among Black boys and men aged 15-34, with a rate of 245.1 per 100,000 people per year.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 2, 2024

Sizing up microplastics: Nanofiltration uncovers environmental bioactivity

Researchers found varying bioactivity levels, such as aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activity and IL-6 levels, indicating potential health risks from microplastics. The study highlights the urgent need for further research to comprehend the impact of microplastics on human health and the environment.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateAug 2, 2024

How America’s elites may hold the key to lowering murder rates

Historian Randolph Roth finds that feelings of empowerment, inclusion, and trust in government drive low homicide rates. Successful nation building is crucial, with four factors contributing to this success: political stability, legitimate social hierarchy, fellow feeling, and legitimate government.

SourceOhio State University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Flamingos don’t preen more than other waterbirds

New research reveals that flamingos are 'middle of the road' when it comes to preening time among waterbirds. The study found that captive flamingos actually spend less time preening compared to wild birds and other waterbird species like pelicans and gannets.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateAug 2, 2024

Study yields new insights into the link between global warming and rising sea levels

A McGill-led study finds that swift action to lower emissions could prevent some of the most destructive impacts of climate change, particularly for coastal communities. The research suggests that reducing carbon emissions could reduce Antarctica's contribution to sea-level rise by up to 40%.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 2024

New approaches and insights on the environment and climate change at the 37th International Geological Congress 2024

The 37th International Geological Congress 2024 brought together over 7,000 participants from 121 countries to discuss key national science and technology policies, planetary exploration, and carbon neutrality. The event aimed to establish a global system for scientific and technological cooperation on these projects.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateAug 2, 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.

Potential terrorists can be identified from social media posts – new research

A study of social media posts from convicted far-right terrorists in the US and UK found signals that can predict when someone is likely to commit a terrorist act. Posts related to logistics, operational planning, and violent action marked individuals who went on to perpetrate terror offences.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 2, 2024

Sustainable green energy innovation! Development of new technology for energy device that heals itself from damage incurred while generating electricity

A team of researchers at DGIST developed an ionic polyurethane-based triboelectric generator with self-healing and biodegradable properties, which can produce high electrical energy density. The device shows a power output of up to 436.8 mW/m² and maintains its efficiency after prolonged use.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Energy·DateAug 2, 2024
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.

Pestina, the coquettish bug-girl: how a forgotten environmental mascot reveals American anxieties surrounding race, gender, and immigration

Pestina, a bug-girl designed in 1958, reflects shifting American attitudes towards women, migration, and foreignness. Her story provides insight into how officials tried to convince the public of pest invasion dangers and how fears and fetishes defined mobility in the mid-20th century.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalEnvironmental History·DateAug 2, 2024

Improving cat food flavors with the help of feline taste-testers

Researchers used feline taste-testers to identify flavor compounds in cat food sprays. The cats preferred sprays with proteins broken down further and containing more free amino acids, leading to more savory and fatty flavors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 2, 2024

Precise package delivery in cells? Successful observation of endosome behavior provides new clues for disease treatment

Researchers developed FT-pdf microscopy to visualize endosome transport in cells, revealing temporal patterns similar to reinforcement learning strategies. This discovery provides new insights into precise material delivery and may contribute to understanding and diagnosing diseases.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateAug 2, 2024
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.

Revolutionary microfluidic sensors enable real-time detection of multiple heavy metals in water

A team of researchers developed advanced microfluidic sensor arrays that can simultaneously visualize and quantify multiple heavy metal ions in environmental water in real-time. The sensors use fluorescent probes to detect mercury, lead, chromium, and copper, providing a faster and more accurate way to ensure water safety.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateAug 2, 2024

Carbohydrate produced by bacteria triggers marine biofouling

A recent study revealed that specific bacteria produce a carbohydrate compound that induces settlement and metamorphosis in larvae of the warm-water tubeworm Hydroides elegans. This process, known as biofouling, can coat ship hulls and propellers, causing significant economic damage.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2024

DART forward: Five papers shed new light on asteroids from world’s first planetary defense test

The DART mission provided a unique opportunity for studying the geology of a near-Earth asteroid binary system, shedding light on its origin and evolution. Researchers found that Dimorphos likely spun off from Didymos in a large mass shedding event, with Dimorphos having a surface age 40-130 times older than Didymos.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 2, 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.

Genetic signatures of domestication identified in pigs, chickens

Researchers at Hiroshima University have identified genetic signatures of domestication in pigs and chickens, revealing changes in gene expression related to immune response, stress response, and energy metabolism. These findings provide insights into the genetic basis of domestication and highlight potential candidate genes for breedi...

SourceHiroshima University·JournalAnimals·DateAug 2, 2024

'Screaming Woman' mummy may have died in agony 3,500 years ago

Researchers found the woman was embalmed with costly imported ingredients, contradicting traditional beliefs about mummification. The study also revealed she suffered from arthritis and had a unique facial expression that may be attributed to a cadaveric spasm caused by intense pain.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2024

High speed atomic force microscopy studies provide insights into influenza A viral replication

Researchers used high-speed atomic force microscopy to study recombinant Influenza A genomes during RNA synthesis, revealing a cycle of conformational stages. The study highlights how factors affecting RNA stability impact replication rates, providing insights into viral transcription and replication mechanisms.

SourceNano Life Science Institute (NanoLSI), Kanazawa University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 2, 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.

Feeling judged by your doctor? You might be right

New research from Stevens Institute of Technology shows that healthcare professionals view patients more negatively if they share inaccurate or unreasonable health-related beliefs. The study surveyed over 350 patients and 200 physicians, finding little difference in responses between doctors and laypeople.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateAug 2, 2024

Emory researchers help discover source of deadly fungal infections in bone marrow transplant patients, new study finds

A new study found that heteroresistance, a phenomenon where a tiny fraction of bacteria remain resistant to antibiotics, is also present in fungal bloodstream infections in bone marrow transplant patients. The research identified the specific species of fungi responsible and developed a machine learning model to detect this type of inf...

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2024

Discovered how to obtain aubergines or roses without prickles

An international team of researchers has identified the LOG gene responsible for forming prickles in several plant species. The discovery enables the development of new prickle-free varieties of crops like aubergines and blackberries, as well as ornamental plants such as roses.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2024

The effects of whole genome duplication on the plant metabolome

Researchers investigated whole genome duplication's effects on greater duckweed's metabolome, finding increased metabolite abundance and changes in cell size. The study sheds light on the immediate phytochemical effects of WGD, highlighting the need for cell-level impacts analysis.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2024

How the rising earth in Antarctica will impact future sea level rise

A new study suggests that the rising earth in Antarctica will impact future sea level rise, depending on how much global warming is controlled. If humans lower greenhouse gas emissions, upward shifts in solid earth could reduce Antarctica's contribution to sea level rise by about 40%, bolstering best-case scenarios for global sea level...

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 2, 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.

Dopamine physiology in the brain unveiled through cutting-edge brain engineering!

The study reveals that dopamine signals in the physiological range do not affect brain neural signal processing, contradicting current theories. However, significant effects were observed when dopamine was artificially released at more than five times the normal range, suggesting other factors may play a role.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 2, 2024

Subclinical hypothyroidism during first half of pregnancy is associated with hypothyroidism 1-5 years after delivery

A new study found that subclinical hypothyroidism diagnosed before 21 weeks of pregnancy is associated with higher rates of overt hypothyroidism or thyroid replacement therapy within 5 years after delivery. Women with high TSH values and elevated TPO antibodies were at increased risk.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThyroid·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 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.

Megamonas bacterium found to influence obesity risk

Researchers found that Megamonas degrades intestinal myo-inositol, enhances lipid absorption, and contributes to obesity. The study suggests potential strategies for future obesity management by illustrating the bacterium's mechanism.

SourceBGI Genomics·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 2, 2024

BNP-Track algorithm offers a clearer picture of biomolecules in motion

Researchers developed BNP-Track algorithm, allowing direct observation of moving biomolecules and reconstruction of their motion. This enables innovations in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology, addressing unanswered questions about biomolecular behavior.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalNature Methods·DateAug 2, 2024

Novel system developed for highly sensitive combined detection of small molecule pollutants in food and environment

Researchers developed a competitive dual-channel fluorescent immunochromatographic assay for ultrasensitive detection of pesticide and veterinary drug residues. The new system, at least 100 times more sensitive than current limits, has strong potential for practical applications.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·DateAug 2, 2024

What researchers know about the genetic complexity of schizophrenia, to date

Researchers have identified nearly 300 common and over 20 rare genetic variants as significant risk factors for schizophrenia. The study emphasizes the role of multiple genes rather than single-gene causation, revealing complexity in the mechanisms underlying the disorder.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateAug 2, 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.

Smart aggregates: The future of infrastructure health monitoring

Researchers have developed piezoelectric smart aggregates for structural health monitoring, enabling continuous, real-time monitoring of concrete structures. This technology promises to reduce maintenance costs and improve overall safety, marking a new era in infrastructure management.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Intelligent Construction·DateAug 2, 2024

Overcoming the limits of immunotherapies

Researchers are exploring the use of CRISPR Prime Editing to optimize CAR-T cells for treating multiple myeloma and other cancers. The goal is to improve effectiveness, duration, and cost-effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapies.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateAug 2, 2024

New compound effective against flesh-eating bacteria

Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a novel compound that effectively clears bacterial infections in mice, including those causing rare and potentially fatal 'flesh-eating' illnesses. The compound targets gram-positive bacteria, reducing virulence and speeding up post-infection healing.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 2, 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.

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.

What gave the first molecules their stability?

Researchers at TUM discovered a mechanism that enables double-stranded RNA molecules to form and remain stable in the primordial soup. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the origin of life and could lead to breakthroughs in medicine, particularly in vaccine development.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2024

Sea level changes shaped early life on Earth, fossil study reveals

A new timeline of early animal fossils links sea level changes to the emergence of bilaterian animals, which display symmetrical body plans. The study reconstructs environmental conditions during the Ediacaran-Cambrian interval and identifies gaps in the fossil record.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 2, 2024