Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 2, 2024


Regulation makes crypto markets more efficient

A new study finds that regulated cryptocurrencies create the most efficient markets, providing protection for investors. Unregulated ICOs were found to be the least efficient, while IEOs and exchange-based regulation approached traditional stock market levels of efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024

Vaccine targeting KRAS in pancreatic and colorectal cancer shows promise

A new off-the-shelf vaccine has shown encouraging early results as a potential treatment for patients with pancreatic or colorectal cancer who have certain KRAS gene mutations. The vaccine appears to stimulate the immune system to create cancer-fighting cells, delaying cancer recurrence in some patients.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 2, 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.

Sedimentary records of contaminant inputs in Frobisher Bay, Nunavut

Research in Frobisher Bay, Nunavut, reveals both local source and long-range transport impacts on marine sediment contaminant levels. Local activities like construction and airport operations contributed to pollutant inputs, while legacy military sites and fossil fuel burning also played a role.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Welch Foundation supports Johnson-Winters' TB research

The University of Texas at Arlington is advancing its understanding of deadly disease tuberculosis (TB) with a new research project led by associate professor Kayunta Johnson-Winters. The project aims to understand why certain types of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria do not respond to treatments.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateFeb 2, 2024

Epigenetic status determines metastasis

Research in mice reveals that epigenetic status controls cancer cells' behavior at metastasis sites, with some cells entering dormancy while others grow into tumors. The study identifies DNA methylation as a key factor in this decision.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalNature Cancer·DateFeb 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.

Big oil companies continue to expand fossil fuel extraction worldwide

A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona finds that big oil companies are relentless in expanding their extractive operations, deploying new technologies and seeking favorable locations. This leads to significant social and environmental costs, with local communities fighting against extraction activities.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024

Re-estimating China’s lake CO2 flux considering spatiotemporal variability

Researchers examined lake partial carbon dioxide pressure variability to improve global estimation accuracy. They found significant seasonal fluctuations and trophic state effects on CO2 emissions, leading to variable emissions across lakes with different characteristics.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2024

New therapeutic strategy for metastatic prostate cancer patients resistant to standard treatment

Researchers at Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute have identified a combination of drugs that could change the treatment of patients with prostate cancer resistant to docetaxel. The study proposes a new treatment based on a combination of kinase inhibitors in patients who inevitably stop responding to docetaxel.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Identifying genomics markers to predict radiation sensitivity

Researchers developed a molecular predictor of radiation response using cell line data and machine learning-based approaches, capturing a wider range of biological processes. The new gene signature has the potential to aid decision-making, personalize treatments, and improve outcomes for various types of cancers.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalBMC Cancer·DateFeb 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.

The race between innovation and obsolescence

Researchers introduce a mathematical model that connects innovation and obsolescence to unify insights across economics, biology, and science. The model reveals three possible scenarios: an ever-expanding scenario, Schumpeterian dystopia, and creation and destruction.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2024

New strategies restructuring lithium-ion batteries

Researchers explore novel electrode design approaches to improve battery performance, enabling higher energy densities, faster charging times and greater longevity. The study emphasizes the importance of scalable production methods to transition these advancements from lab to market.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournaleScience·DateFeb 2, 2024

Paper: Multistate foodborne illness outbreaks impact restaurant stock price, public perception

A recent study found that multistate foodborne illness outbreaks have a significant impact on restaurant stock prices and public perception. Single-state outbreaks were previously met with little attention and no financial losses, but after a multistate outbreak, they received national media coverage and financial losses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAgribusiness·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024

CAR T cells show promise against age-related diseases in mice

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have engineered CAR T cells to target senescent cells, which can lead to chronic inflammation with aging. The treatment improved metabolic function in older mice and prevented decline later in life, suggesting potential benefits for diseases associated with aging.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

Did climate change trigger pandemics in antiquity?

Researchers reconstructed temperature and precipitation patterns for 200 BC to 600 AD, finding a link between climate change and three major pandemics. The study used high-resolution regional climate records and glass particle analyses to confirm the causal relationship.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateFeb 2, 2024

Scientists successfully simulate protein complex that initiates fertilization

Researchers at ETH Zurich successfully simulated the protein complex JUNO-IZUMO1, which initiates fertilization. The simulations revealed a network of short-lived contacts between the proteins and showed how zinc ions destabilize the complex, preventing further sperm penetration.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2024

Proteins suggest a path to reduce drug resistance in a form of cancer

A new proteogenomics study provides insights into how drug resistance develops in acute myeloid leukemia, offering a potential path forward for treatment. Researchers identified specific proteins and molecular locations that play a key role in determining protein activity, which could help doctors switch to alternative medications.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Risk of venous thromboembolic events after surgery for cancer

A large study of 432,000 cancer patients who underwent major surgery found an increased rate of venous thromboembolism associated with cancer surgery. The risk persisted for about two to four months postoperatively and varied between cancer types.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 2, 2024

Prehistoric mobility among Tibetan farmers, herders shaped highland settlement patterns, cultural interaction, study finds

A new study reveals that the mobility of Tibetan farmers and herders in prehistoric times influenced the settlement patterns and cultural connections across the plateau. The research found a strong correlation between the routes used for subsistence-oriented mobility and the social network of shared technologies and ceramic designs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2024

Plant groupings in drylands support ecosystem resilience

Research reveals that spatial patterns in dryland vegetation are critical for adapting to changing environmental conditions. The study provides empirical evidence supporting the role of self-organized clusters in maintaining ecosystem function and health.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 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.

Immune cells lose ‘killer instinct’ in cancerous tumors – but functionality can be re-awakened

Researchers discovered that immune cells called natural killer cells rapidly lose their functionality when entering solid tumours, adopting a dormant state. However, targeting the IL-15 pathway can restore NK cell activity and improve tumor control. This breakthrough could pave the way for new cancer treatments.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Unveiling Oxidation-induced Super-elasticity in Metallic Glass Nanotubes

A research team led by Professor Yang Yong found that severely oxidized metallic glass nanotubes can attain an ultrahigh recoverable elastic strain of up to 14% at room temperature. The discovery implies that oxidation in low-dimension metallic glass can result in unique properties for applications in sensors, medical devices, and othe...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Singapore scientists uncover a crucial link between cholesterol synthesis and cancer progression

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School discovered a novel enzyme, FAXDC2, that plays a pivotal role in cholesterol synthesis and cancer progression. The study highlights the potential vulnerability of cancer cells to targeted therapeutic intervention. Further research is needed to explore the therapeutic potential of targeting FAXDC2 i...

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Gene editing precisely repairs immune cells

Researchers have developed a gene editing technique that can repair defective immune cells using CRISPR-Cas9, showing promise in treating rare diseases like Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis. The therapy involves repairing genetic defects in cytotoxic T cells to normalize the immune response.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.

Biodegradable sensor monitors levels of pesticides via direct contact with surface of fruit and vegetables

The biodegradable sensor, made from plant-based material, can detect pesticide levels in minutes and has the potential to help assure food safety. The study showed that washing and immersion were insufficient to remove residues of pesticides, highlighting the need for reliable detection methods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiomaterials Advances·DateFeb 2, 2024

Turban style and thickness affects head injury risk in Sikh cyclists

Researchers found that turbans greatly reduced the risk of skull fractures in areas covered with thick fabric, while different turban styles affected head injury risk. The study recommends covering larger areas with thicker fabric and reducing friction to minimize brain injuries.

SourceImperial College London·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 2, 2024

Availability of mental telehealth services in the US

A recent study of 1,404 mental health facilities found that mental telehealth services are not equally accessible across the US, with disparities observed at local levels. The findings suggest widespread inequalities in who has access to these services, highlighting the need for targeted solutions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateFeb 2, 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.

A physical qubit with built-in error correction

A team of researchers from the universities of Mainz, Olomouc, and Tokyo has successfully generated a logical qubit from a single light pulse that can correct errors. This breakthrough uses a photon-based approach to overcome the limitations of current quantum computing technology.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScience·DateFeb 2, 2024

Common food preservative has unexpected effects on the gut microbiome

A study found that a common food preservative called nisin, which kills pathogens in food, also harms beneficial gut bacteria. The researchers identified six different lantibiotics produced by the gut microbiome and tested their effects on both pathogens and commensal bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalACS Chemical Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024

Geographic differences in telehealth found among mental health clinics

A new RAND study reveals significant geographic differences in telehealth availability and services offered by mental health clinics across the US. The study found that rural and metropolitan areas had different types of services available, with some clinics not offering virtual medication management or diagnostic services.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 2, 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.

Rare 3D fossils show that some early trees had forms unlike any you’ve ever seen

The discovery of fossilized trees with a surprising three-dimensional crown shape reveals that some ancient plants were experimenting with unusual growth forms to maximize light capture. The 350-million-year-old tree, known as Sanfordiacaulis, had over 250 leaves and a dense canopy extending at least 5.5 meters around its non-woody trunk.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2024

HMSOM researchers: Data shows clinical trials becoming more inclusive

A meta-analysis of New Jersey clinical trials from 2017 to 2022 reveals an uptick in diversity among trial participants, with 97% reporting on race and/or ethnicity. Despite this progress, there is still work to be done to match U.S. Census demographics, but the study suggests recent efforts are having a positive impact.

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalGlobal Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024

COVID-19 vaccination in people with HIV, a pending issue

Two studies found people living with HIV in Catalonia have lower complete COVID-19 vaccination rates than those without HIV. However, they received more booster doses. Factors contributing to these disparities include previous SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, socioeconomic situation and migration status.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalVaccines·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 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.

Mechanism discovered that protects tissue after faulty gene expression

A team of researchers at the University of Cologne has discovered a protein complex called C/EBP heterodimer that directs cells towards a dormant state in response to faulty gene expression. This mechanism, known as cellular senescence, can protect tissues from damage but also promote disease and ageing.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Advancing clean energy: bifunctional electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen production via overall hydrazine splitting

Researchers developed bifunctional electrocatalysts for efficient hydrogen production through overall hydrazine splitting, achieving a cell voltage of 0.984 V and operating stably for over 130 hours. This innovative approach enhances the efficiency of hydrogen production and holds promise for a cleaner energy future.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Strategies for enhancing the performance of nickel single-atom catalysts for the electroreduction of CO2 to CO

Researchers introduced three strategies to enhance catalytic performance of Ni SACs, including support structure modification and surface treatment. The article highlights the potential of Ni SACs in controlling product distribution and reducing cost, while also discussing existing challenges and future development outlook.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 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.

Ambitious workers park the office politics when employer is struggling, study suggests

A study by City University London found that employees in competitive industries modify their behaviors when facing threats or opportunities from rival firms. For example, replacement riders in MotoGP tend to overtake teammates more often when the team is doing well, suggesting they want to secure a permanent contract.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2024

Researchers identify protein linked to metastasis in pancreatic cancer

A study published in Advanced Science identified Engrailed-1 as a key factor promoting pancreatic cancer progression and metastasis. The researchers found that elevated Engrailed-1 levels were associated with severe pancreatic cancer, suggesting it as a potential target for therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Scientists see an ultra-fast movement on surface of HIV virus

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a critical structure on the HIV virus that plays a crucial role in its infection process. By understanding this structure's dynamics, scientists may be able to design broadly neutralizing antibodies for an AIDS vaccine.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Smarter eco-cities, AI and AIoT, and environmental sustainability

Smarter eco-cities harness real-time data to address environmental challenges and implement innovative approaches for ecological conservation. However, high energy demands associated with AI and AIoT applications pose a challenge to attaining environmental objectives.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 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.

Edge-to-edge assembly technique for 2D nanosheets

Researchers fabricated a soccer ball-shaped construction using edge-to-edge assembly of 2D semiconductor materials, exhibiting exceptional mechanical stability and durability. The new technique improves the efficiency of catalytic reactions and facilitates the smooth movement of reactants, paving the way for the development of stable a...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateFeb 2, 2024

Scammed! Animals ‘led by the nose’ to leave plants alone

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a method to shield plants from herbivorous mammals by fooling them with artificial odors, mimicking plants they naturally avoid. This approach is more humane and low-cost than current methods, and shows promise for protecting valuable plants globally.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2024

Why are people climate change deniers?

Researchers from University of Bonn and IZA found that nearly half of people who denied climate change did not use motivated reasoning to justify their stance. Instead, they defined themselves by this belief, which sets them apart from other political groups.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 2, 2024

Shifts in lake carbon dynamics on the Qingzang Plateau — from predominant carbon sources to emerging carbon sinks

A study reveals that annual carbon emissions from Qingzang Plateau lakes have declined, with some shifting from carbon sources to sinks between 1970-2000 and 2000-2020. This finding has implications for global warming and climate change estimates relative to China.

SourceEurasia Academic Publishing Group·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2024