Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for December 13, 2024


Newly discovered mechanism sheds light upon aging

A team of researchers has discovered a hitherto unrecognized role of mitochondria in maintaining cellular NAD levels. Decreased NAD levels are involved in ageing processes and various pathologies, but the study reveals that cells can generally tolerate reduced NAD levels without fatal consequences.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Metabolism·DateDec 13, 2024

For the first time, researchers detect pre-malignant pancreatic lesions with magnetic resonance imaging

A new study detects pre-malignant pancreatic lesions using Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), a form of MRI, which could enable early diagnosis and effective therapies. The detection was successful in both transgenic mice and human samples, opening the way to non-invasive diagnostic tools for PanINs.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalInvestigative Radiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

Land use in tropical regions: Biodiversity loss due to agricultural trade three times higher than thought

Researchers found that international trade has caused over 90% of biodiversity loss in tropical regions due to agricultural land conversion. The study tracked land use changes between 1995 and 2022, revealing a significant impact on species loss in countries such as Brazil, Indonesia, and Madagascar.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2024

Exposure to remote wildfire smoke drifting across the US linked to increased medical visits for heart and lung problems

A new study found that exposure to remote wildfire smoke drifting across the US led to a 20% increase in medical visits for heart and lung conditions. Patients who were older, non-smokers, and more socio-economically affluent were at higher risk on poor air quality days.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeCase study·DateDec 13, 2024

Light-induced gene therapy disables cancer cells’ energy center

A new study shows targeted delivery of energy-disrupting gene therapy using nanoparticles shrinks glioblastoma brain tumors and aggressive breast cancer tumors in mice. The technology, mLumiOpto, induces light-activated electrical currents inside cells to disrupt mitochondria, leading to programmed cell death and DNA damage.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 13, 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.

ZEST trial offers insights for using ctDNA to predict breast cancer recurrence

The ZEST trial found that patients with detectable circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) were more likely to have aggressive disease characteristics. To improve outcomes, researchers recommend starting ctDNA testing during treatment rather than waiting for completion, and targeting high-risk patients with tailored therapies.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 13, 2024

New method could improve cervical cancer screening

A new study from Karolinska Institutet and Queen Mary University of London has developed a method to divide HPV-positive women into three risk groups, based on the variant of the HPV virus and the amount of virus present in the self-test. This method could enhance cervical cancer screening for high-risk women.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 13, 2024
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.

Oxidation in glacial rivers and lakes could help mitigate methane emissions

A new study suggests that glacial rivers and lakes can consume large amounts of methane being flushed from under melting glaciers, reducing atmospheric methane emissions. This natural process, called oxidation, has the potential to mitigate the effects of climate change by up to 53%.

SourceDickinson College·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2024

Stanford study reveals flu virus remains infectious in refrigerated raw milk

A new Stanford University study found that influenza viruses can persist in refrigerated raw milk for up to five days, raising concerns about potential transmission pathways. The researchers also discovered that the viral RNA remained detectable in raw milk for at least 57 days.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateDec 13, 2024

From Yemen to Mayotte, the spread of a highly drug-resistant cholera strain

A highly drug-resistant cholera strain has been identified in Yemen and later detected in Lebanon, Kenya, Tanzania, and the Comoros Islands, including Mayotte. The strain's spread highlights the need for strengthened global surveillance of the cholera agent to monitor its resistance to antibiotics.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

$791,000 grant to support future nematode-resistant soybean varieties

Researchers aim to develop resilient soybean plants resistant to southern root-knot nematodes, causing $160 billion in damages annually. The project will screen hundreds of genetically diverse soybean lines worldwide to identify potential new sources of resistance.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture·DateDec 13, 2024

Physics student statewide wins award before graduation

Pratyanik Sau, a senior at the University of Texas at Arlington, won an Outstanding Undergraduate Student Oral Presentation Award for his research on graphene using positrons. The study has implications for designing particle accelerators and fusion reactors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateDec 13, 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.

Four new 6G projects to drive sustainability, resilience, and inclusive innovation

Four EU-funded 6G projects launched in January 2025 will focus on sustainable energy-efficient networks and reducing environmental impact. The SUSTAIN-6G, 6G VERSUS, AMBIENT 6G, and SNS-CO OP projects aim to create a 6G future that benefits everyone, combining technological innovation with societal and environmental priorities.

SourceUniversity of Oulu, Finland·TypeNews article·DateDec 13, 2024

Crowdsourcing hope: Book on community building shows impact of local action

The new book, 'Peace by Peace: Risking Public Action, Creating Social Change,' tells the stories of ordinary individuals who took small steps to make big changes in their local communities. Drift, a feeling of detachment and disconnection, is identified as a major challenge, but practical wisdom is proposed as a tool to counteract it.

SourcePenn State·DateDec 13, 2024

Buried landforms reveal North Sea’s ancient glacial past

Researchers used seismic data to discover glacial landforms in the North Sea, indicating an ice sheet expansion about 1 million years ago, linked to global cooling. The findings provide new insights into how past ice sheets responded to climate changes.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 13, 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.

Creating a global map of different physics laboratory classes

A global taxonomy for physics laboratory classes aims to create a more equitable way to compare courses. Researchers found that lab courses emphasize technical skills and group work, with complex learning goals and varying equipment availability.

SourceJILA·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·DateDec 13, 2024

Multimodal machine learning model effective at predicting response to CDK4/6 inhibitors in HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer patients

A multimodal machine learning model outperformed clinical and genomic models in predicting outcomes for HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer patients receiving CDK4/6 inhibitor combinations. The model integrated clinical and genomic factors to identify high-risk patients with a 6.5-fold difference in hazard ratio.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 13, 2024

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Stanford Researchers reveal and refine new immunotherapy platform with increased potential to target cancer cells

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Stanford University have developed a new immunotherapy platform called TRACeR-I, which can more accurately recognize a wide variety of surface proteins expressed by cancer cells. This improved recognition enables the body's own immune system to target cancer cells more effectively.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Climate change and innovative paths to a more sustainable future

Key findings include the urgent need for technological advancements in power generation, transportation, and materials to reduce GHG emissions. Additionally, the authors propose innovative agricultural practices and AI-powered clean energy solutions to promote sustainable development.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalFrontiers in Energy·DateDec 13, 2024

M87's powerful jet unleashes rare gamma-ray outburst

The M87 black hole is observed to have a high-energy gamma-ray flare with an emission region of less than three light-days in size. The rapid variability in gamma rays suggests an extremely small flare region, which has different characteristics depending on the wavelength.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2024

Microglia: the double-edged sword in Alzheimer's progression

Researchers found that microglia clear amyloid-β plaques from the brain before plaque formation and may cause more plaques when homeostatic. In contrast, activated microglia help compact plaques in neurons, offering a protective role.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2024

Research Spotlight: Improving liver cancer outcomes through enhanced immunotherapy

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in treating liver cancer, with a new study revealing the potential of anti-CXCR4 therapy to reprogram the 'cold' microenvironment. The combination of anti-CXCR4 and PD1 blockades enhances intratumoral dendritic cell activation and immune responses against hepatocellular carcinoma.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalCancer Immunology Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

Artificial intelligence methods available for cancer research

AI algorithms identify genetic mutations for early detection and targeted therapies, improving clinical decision-making. Despite challenges, AI has demonstrated significant impact in revolutionizing cancer detection and improving patient outcomes.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2024

New device produces critical fertilizer ingredient from thin air, cutting carbon emissions

Researchers at Stanford University developed a prototype device that can produce ammonia from water vapor and nitrogen in the air using wind energy. The technology has the potential to eliminate the need for a century-old method of producing ammonia, which consumes 2% of global energy and contributes 1% of annual carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 13, 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.

Clarification on commercial law grey area

A new study from the University of Adelaide has identified key markers that influence how commercial behaviour is perceived by courts, providing practical guidance for consumers, businesses, and legal professionals. The research clarifies the line between legal and illegal conduct in commercial law, highlighting the distinction between...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalUniversity of New South Wales Law Journal·TypeCase study·DateDec 13, 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.

Researchers: ethyl lactate ameliorates liver injury and alcohol-associated liver disease

A study published in Advanced Science found that ethyl lactate, a nonethanol ingredient in distilled spirits, can ameliorate fatty liver, inflammation, and acute-on-chronic liver injury in alcohol-associated liver disease. Ethyl lactate works by inducing fibroblast growth factor 21, which inhibits abnormal lipid metabolism.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 13, 2024

Hippos 'vulnerable' as gaps in data hinder conservation efforts

A new database reveals significant gaps in hippo population knowledge, with fragmented populations relying on protected areas. The research calls for coordinated surveys and a centralized spatial database to improve conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 13, 2024

New guidelines unveil advanced strategies for HIV treatment and prevention

The updated recommendations provide a comprehensive framework for healthcare professionals to deliver better care and move closer to ending the HIV epidemic. The guidelines emphasize tailored antiretroviral therapy, effective HIV prevention strategies like pre-exposure prophylaxis, and comprehensive care for people living with HIV.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalJAMA·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2024

Stretchable, flexible, recyclable. This plastic is fantastic

Princeton engineers create soft plastics with programmed stretchiness and flexibility that are also recyclable and inexpensive. The material's internal structure is controlled to achieve stiffness and stretchiness in different regions of an object.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

Astrophysicists capture astonishing images of gamma-ray flare from supermassive black hole M87

A team of scientists captured an astonishing image of a gamma-ray flare emanating from the supermassive black hole at the center of galaxy M87. The flare was tens of millions of times larger than the event horizon and lasted about three days, providing crucial insights into particle acceleration near black holes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateDec 13, 2024

How chemical reactions deplete nutrients in plant-based drinks

A new study reveals that plant-based drinks have lower nutritional quality than cow's milk due to chemical reactions during processing. The heat treatment used in UHT processing alters protein structures, leading to the loss of essential amino acids and increased sugar content.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalFood Research International·DateDec 13, 2024

Passion to serve others fuels social work graduate

A social work graduate has published her research on cognitive decline among refugees, finding that those who have experienced trauma are more likely to suffer from mild cognitive impairment. The study highlights the need for interventions that address these gaps in care and promote healthier aging.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Gerontological Social Work·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 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.

The great ripple - how a tsunami can disrupt global trade

A new framework evaluates tsunami risk to seaports and the global port network, estimating potential economic losses in trade caused by port disruptions. The study found that a Manila Trench tsunami could damage up to 15 international seaports under present-day sea-level conditions.

SourceTohoku University·Journalnpj Natural Hazards·DateDec 13, 2024

AI-powered blood test first to spot earliest sign of breast cancer

A new screening method combining laser analysis with AI identifies patients with breast cancer in its earliest stage, stage 1a. This non-invasive technique reveals subtle changes in the bloodstream that occur during the initial phases of the disease, outperforming existing early detection strategies.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·DateDec 13, 2024

The CNIC presents iFlpMosaics, an innovative genetic toolkit for the study of gene function

The CNIC has developed a comprehensive set of genetic tools and mouse lines called iFlpMosaics, enabling accurate investigation of somatic mutations on cellular biology and disease. This toolkit facilitates the study of complex interactions between cells within their microenvironment.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2024

Insights from the EUnetHTA 21 project for EU HTA from 2025 onwards

The EUnetHTA 21 project has developed guidelines and templates for joint HTA work at the EU level, tested in pilot assessments, and aims to improve HTA quality and reduce patient access inequalities. The results of the project will inform the implementation of the European HTA Regulation from 2025 onwards.

SourceInstitute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care·DateDec 13, 2024

Multinational enterprises are failing the world’s sustainability goals

A new study from the University of Surrey found that multinational enterprises (MNEs) are actively contributing to environmental problems despite claiming to address them. The research team argues that there is an urgent need for MNEs to reassess their innovation strategies to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalInternational Business Review·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Generic platinum chemotherapy shortages did not increase deaths

Researchers analyzed data from 11,797 adults with advanced solid cancers and found no difference in mortality rates during the shortage period. Prescription rates for cisplatin and carboplatin fell less than three percent overall, with alternative therapies helping mitigate the crisis.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 13, 2024

Activating the hidden pharmaceutical potential of bacteria

Scientists at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research have developed ACTIMOT, a genetic method that amplifies and isolates biosynthetic gene clusters from bacteria to produce new bioactive natural products. The approach enables faster and easier access to previously hidden pharmaceutical potential.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2024

Changes in adult obesity trends in the US

Adult obesity trends in the US have declined for the first time in more than a decade, according to recent data. The South region experienced the largest decreases in body mass index and obesity prevalence, despite also facing high COVID-19 mortality rates among obese individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 13, 2024

New insights into genes' role in craniofacial development and genetic disorder

A team of experts has discovered that the ARID1A gene regulates a critical genetic program for cell migration, with ZIC2 identified as a crucial regulator in this process. This study expands our understanding of craniofacial development and provides valuable insights into the genetic causes of congenital diseases.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

Ligand-engineered copper nanoclusters could help combat CO₂ emissions

A breakthrough in electrochemical CO2 reduction processes has been achieved through ligand engineering of copper nanoclusters. The study reveals that variations in intercluster interactions significantly impact the stability and selectivity of these nanoclusters, leading to more efficient carbon conversion technologies.

SourceTohoku University·JournalSmall·DateDec 13, 2024

Faster, safer complex head and neck reconstruction with preserved blood supply tissue

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a new technique for head and neck reconstruction that achieves 100% success rate in high-risk patients. The pedicled latissimus dorsi flap technique provides a reliable, fast, and minimally invasive option for complex tissue defects.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open·TypeCase study·DateDec 13, 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.

Unlocking the potential to better target cancer with immunotherapy

Scientists at Monash University have discovered the structure of how LAG-3 interacts with its main ligand, providing a new targeted approach to improve immunotherapy's effectiveness for certain forms of cancer. This breakthrough could lead to the development of blocking LAG-3 therapeutics and further enhance cancer treatment.

SourceMonash University·JournalScience Immunology·DateDec 13, 2024

The genetic basis of fertility, family and longevity

Researchers identified 159 genetic studies and 37 key genes linked to reproductive traits such as age at first childbirth, menopause timing, and hormones like FSH and testosterone. Genetic factors play a significant role in broader health outcomes and influencing fertility.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Aging·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 13, 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.

ERC Consolidator Grant: 4 million euros to Bielefeld sociologists

Professor Minh Nguyen and Professor Carsten Sauer have received ERC Consolidator Grants to investigate financialization in Asia and gender-based wage differentials in Europe. Their projects aim to understand the impact of financial markets on working lives and labor market practices.

SourceBielefeld University·DateDec 13, 2024

Scientists innovate breeding strategies to create climate-smart crops

Researchers have created a novel breeding strategy to rapidly create climate-smart crops that can withstand heat stress. By optimizing carbon partitioning to sinks, they increased yields in staple grain and vegetable crops. The study showed improved fruit quality, sugar content, and yield resilience under heat stress conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateDec 13, 2024