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Science News for February 5, 2024


Violence is contagious among members of Italian mafia groups, study shows

Researchers analyzed the criminal careers of over 9,800 Italian mafia members and found that prior violent co-offending significantly increases the likelihood of future violent offenses. The study suggests that group-based violent actions have a stronger impact on future violence than solo violence.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Quantitative Criminology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

How ‘deaths of despair’ differ by race and ethnicity

White Americans are more likely to experience 'deaths of despair,' despite lower levels of severe psychological distress, according to a new study. The study suggests that whites are vulnerable to the damaging effects of psychological distress, which can lead to other health issues like obesity and cardiovascular disease.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Down to the core of poxviruses

Researchers at ISTA have discovered the composition of poxviral cores, a key factor in their infectivity. The study's findings could lead to the development of new therapeutics targeting the viral core.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Combination therapy lowers blood pressure in patients receiving ibrutinib

A study published in Blood Advances found that combination therapies can significantly reduce blood pressure in patients taking ibrutinib. The research suggests that different drug combinations may be more effective depending on whether patients had high blood pressure before or developed it while taking the drug.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateFeb 5, 2024

It’s true, happiness doesn’t cost much

A recent study by ICTA-UAB found that many societies with very low monetary income have remarkably high levels of life satisfaction, comparable to those in wealthy countries. The average life satisfaction score across the studied small-scale societies was 6.8 on a scale of 0-10.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 5, 2024

From Colombia to Laos: protecting crops through nanotechnology

A breakthrough in DNA sequencing technology has identified the fungus genus Ceratobasidium as the culprit behind cassava witches' broom disease. This discovery will help plant pathologists in Laos and other Southeast Asian countries protect their crops, supporting millions of smallholder farmers who rely on cassava.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalScientific Reports·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

Magnesium protects tantalum, a promising material for making qubits

Researchers found that a thin layer of magnesium significantly improves tantalum's purity and raises its operating temperature as a superconductor. This could lead to increased quantum information retention in qubits, ultimately benefiting quantum computing.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 5, 2024

Are body temperature and depression linked? Science says, yes

Researchers found a correlation between body temperature and depression symptom severity in a large international study. Participants with higher depression scores had higher body temperatures, suggesting that cooling the body may be a novel treatment approach for depression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2024

UB study challenges the classical view of the origin of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current and warns of its vulnerability

A new study from UB and CSIC challenges the classical view on the origins of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, a key regulator of the planet's climate. The research reveals that the current dates later than the beginning of the Antarctic glaciation, making it sensitive to changes in climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Study reveals significant discrepancies in common poverty measurement approaches

A new study from Stanford University found significant discrepancies in common poverty measurement approaches, leading to vastly different conclusions about who lives in poverty. The research suggests that the choice of measurement approach can completely change the extent to which programs and policies reach vulnerable populations.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Ammonia attracts the shipping industry, but researchers warn of its risks

A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Unlocking precision medicine for inflammatory bowel disease

The prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease is rapidly increasing, affecting an estimated 6.8 million people worldwide. Factors such as lifestyle, gut microbial diversity, and genetics contribute to disease development. A multiomics approach using machine learning can predict treatment response and optimize therapy selection.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateFeb 5, 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.

Solving an age-old mystery about crystal formation

University of Houston researcher Peter Vekilov discovers two-step incorporation into crystals, mediated by an intermediate state, solving a 40-year-old riddle. The new paradigm guides the search for solvents and additives to stabilize the intermediate state and slow down unwanted polymorphs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Study: weight loss surgery most effective for long-term blood pressure control

A five-year study shows that bariatric surgery maintains normal blood pressure levels without medications, while reducing BMI compared to medical therapy alone. Participants who underwent bariatric surgery had fewer medications and lower blood pressure rates than those on medication alone.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 5, 2024

Bullied teens’ brains show chemical change associated with psychosis

Researchers found that bullied adolescents have lower levels of glutamate in the brain's anterior cingulate cortex region, which regulates emotions and decision-making. This imbalance is linked to higher levels of subclinical psychotic experiences in early adolescence.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

New technology unscrambles the chatter of microbes

Researchers have developed a new search tool, microbeMASST, to study microbial metabolism, which could transform our understanding of human health and the environment. The tool instantly matches microbes to their metabolic signatures without prior knowledge.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 5, 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.

Microbial division of labor produces higher biofuel yields

Scientists have developed an artificial microbial community consisting of two engineered yeast strains to produce more ethanol per unit of plant sugars. The team discovered that adding the xylose-fermenting yeast specialist to the mixture first, followed by the glucose specialist, dramatically boosted ethanol production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Males born to obese mothers more likely to suffer health issues as adults

Research reveals that males born to obese mothers are more likely to be overweight at birth and develop metabolic complications in later life. The study suggests that male sex hormones play a crucial role in the development of the liver, which can lead to health issues if activated too strongly.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalLife Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 5, 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.

Improving climate predictions by unlocking the secrets of soil microbes

Researchers developed a new model incorporating genetic information from microbes to better understand soil carbon sequestration and plant-microbe interactions. This approach enables more accurate prediction of global carbon cycle changes in climate models, informing agricultural strategies to preserve carbon and mitigate climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 5, 2024

Pulmonary rehabilitation is difficult for millions of Americans to access

A Yale-led study reveals that pulmonary rehabilitation is difficult for millions of Americans to access due to geographic constraints. Despite 80% of Americans living within a 30-minute drive of a program, over 14 million people must travel more than an hour away for access. The study also uncovered racial disparities in access to pulm...

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 5, 2024

Mystery of moths’ warning sound production explained in new study

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered how ermine moths produce ultrasonic warning sounds using an 'aeroelastic tymbal'. The mechanism involves the snap-through buckling of a corrugated membrane, amplifying sound production through resonance. This study sheds light on the biomechanics behind moth defense mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 5, 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.

Decoding the molecular networks of early human development

A new study unveiled over a thousand protein-protein interactions during early embryonic development, highlighting the role of transcription factors like paired-like homeobox (PRDL) family. This research paves the way for understanding embryonic genome activation and advancing treatments for developmental disorders.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEMBO Reports·DateFeb 5, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider Category 6 hurricanes

Researchers introduce a hypothetical Category 6 hurricane classification to address increasing intensity and damage from hurricanes. With global warming projected to increase storm risks by up to 50% near the Philippines and doubling in the Gulf of Mexico, the new classification aims to raise awareness about the growing threat.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 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.

Influence of voting advice web tools is limited during elections with authoritarian candidates, study shows

A new study published in Electoral Studies found that voting advice applications have short-term effects on voter attitudes and choices in competitive authoritarian regimes. However, these effects are relatively small and dissipate within two months, limiting their practical value in such contexts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalElectoral Studies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Stable binder boosting sulfide solid electrolyte thin membrane for all-solid-state lithium batteries

Researchers have developed a new polymeric binder that enhances the mechanical strength and stability of sulfide solid electrolyte membranes. This breakthrough improves the energy density of all-solid-state lithium batteries, enabling longer cycle life and higher performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Understanding how soil traps carbon

Researchers found that electrostatic charges, structural features of carbon molecules, and surrounding metal nutrients play major roles in soil's ability to trap carbon. The study aims to help predict which soil chemistries are most favorable for trapping carbon.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Green steel from toxic red mud

Scientists at Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung have developed a method to produce green steel from toxic red mud using an electric arc furnace and hydrogen plasma, potentially saving 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2. The process is also economically viable, requiring only 30-40% iron oxide in the red mud.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2024

How food availability could catalyze cultural transmission in wild orangutans

A long-term study on wild orangutan males found that habitats with plentiful food increased the likelihood of social learning and cultural innovation. The researchers discovered that individuals from areas with high food availability spent more time peering at others, suggesting an animal's environment modulates social learning.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Ancient Australian air-breathing fish from 380m years ago springs back to life

A new species of ancient air-breathing fish, Harajicadectes zhumini, has been discovered in remote fossil fields west of Alice Springs. The fossil is approximately 380 million years old and features distinctive spiracular structures that facilitate surface air-breathing.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

Virus ancestry could aid bid to predict next pandemic, study finds

A University of Edinburgh-led research team traced the lineage of 743 RNA virus species to track their evolution and identify those most likely to emerge and spread rapidly in humans. The findings show that viruses that can spread within human populations typically evolve separately from strictly zoonotic viruses.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 5, 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.

Primary care housing intervention linked to improved patient health outcomes

Participation in a primary care-based housing program was associated with reduced outpatient visits, improved physical and mental health, and increased feelings of connection to healthcare clinics. The study found that integrated support from the program's care team led to better health outcomes and more stable housing solutions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

New study points to more climate extremes

A new study by Flinders University and Argentinian researchers found similarities between long-term climatic changes in South Australia and temperate agricultural areas in Argentina. The research highlights an increase in maximum and minimum temperatures, less precipitation, and more intense droughts and heatwaves.

SourceFlinders University·JournalWater·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

Direct view of tantalum oxidation that impedes qubit coherence

Researchers use advanced electron microscopy and computational modeling to understand tantalum oxide formation, which can impede qubit performance. The study reveals a 'suboxide' layer at the interface between tantalum and oxide, with ordered crystalline lattice features.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 5, 2024

New guideline details acute pain management strategies for adolescent, adult dental patients

The American Dental Association has released a new clinical practice guideline recommending the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alone or with acetaminophen to manage short-term dental pain in adolescents and adults. The guideline also provides recommendations for prescribing opioid medications, emphasizing caution ...

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateFeb 5, 2024

Women’s blood lipids metabolism better in countering effects of sleep apnea

Researchers found that women regulate their blood lipids better than men under conditions of intermittent hypoxemia, a key characteristic of sleep apnea. This metabolic advantage could explain why women living with sleep apnea experience lower co-morbidity rates than men.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

World’s largest childhood trauma study uncovers brain rewiring

A study of over 580 children found that childhood trauma disrupts neural networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving. The research suggests that trauma therapies should address not only thoughts but also the impact on the body, sense of self, emotional processing, and relationships.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

New species of Jurassic pterosaur discovered on the Isle of Skye

A new species of pterosaur from the Middle Jurassic of Scotland expands our understanding of its evolution. The discovery sheds light on the early diversification of flying reptiles, with Ceoptera evansae showcasing a significant period of evolution and distribution.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider category 6 hurricanes

Researchers suggest introducing a hypothetical Category 6 storm with winds exceeding 192 mph, citing increased risk in Southeast Asia and the Gulf of Mexico. The proposed change aims to raise awareness about growing major hurricane risks under climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Winners of the 2024 Hill Prizes announced

The 2024 Hill Prizes were announced by Lyda Hill Philanthropies, awarding $2.5 million to five Texas researchers for their groundbreaking work in medicine, engineering, and biological sciences. The prizes aim to accelerate high-risk research ideas with significant potential for real-world impact.

SourceTexas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology·DateFeb 5, 2024

System for early diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers

Scientists have created a low-cost imaging device suitable for endoscopic screening programs, offering excellent contrast between healthy and malignant tissue. The new system uses ultraminiature spatial frequency domain imaging technology to detect cancerous lesions with high specificity and sensitivity.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 5, 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.

MIT researchers map the energy transition’s effects on jobs

The study identifies areas with high carbon footprints, including those reliant on fossil fuels and manufacturing, highlighting the need for targeted economic assistance programs. The research provides a precise way to assess industrial composition, helping policymakers incorporate considerations into future policies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Lighting up Alzheimer’s-related proteins to allow for earlier disease detection

Researchers have developed a fluorescent sensor array that can detect Alzheimer's-related proteins, allowing for earlier disease detection. The tool uses an array of sensor molecules that light up amyloids, providing a high level of sensitivity and selectivity in distinguishing between different amyloid-related conditions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 5, 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.

Mental health care during the COVID-19 era remains inaccessible to many distressed US adults

A recent study found that mental health care access remained inaccessible to many distressed US adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rate of serious psychological distress among adults increased from 3.5% to 4.2%, while outpatient mental health care use decreased among older and unemployed adults.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2024

Vitamin B12 adaptability in Antarctic algae has implications for climate change, life in the Southern Ocean

A new study on Antarctic algae reveals that they can survive without vitamin B12, a finding with significant implications for climate change and the carbon cycle. The algae, Phaeocystis antarctica, has a fusion B12-independent methionine synthase protein that enables it to adapt to low B12 availability.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Scientists create effective ‘spark plug’ for direct-drive inertial confinement fusion experiments

Researchers from the University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics demonstrated an effective 'spark plug' for direct-drive methods of inertial confinement fusion (ICF), achieving a plasma hot enough to initiate fusion reactions. The successful experiments use the OMEGA laser system, with the goal of eventually producing fus...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 5, 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.

The surprising secrets of extreme snowfall events in Utah's central Wasatch

A new study published in Monthly Weather Review analyzes hundreds of extreme snowfall events in Utah's central Wasatch Mountains. Researchers found that storm systems carrying relatively little water vapor were still capable of producing heavy snows, and the relationship between high-IVT storms and extreme precipitation is complex.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalMonthly Weather Review·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Currently stable parts of East Antarctica may be closer to melting than anyone realized

Researchers at Stanford have found that the Wilkes Subglacial Basin in East Antarctica could be closer to runaway melting than previously thought. The study suggests that this region, which holds enough ice to raise global sea levels by over 10 feet, may be vulnerable to irreversible melting if warming seawater gets under the ice sheet.

SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 5, 2024

Hart receives funding for boot camp

David M. Hart's $159,488 funding aims to bridge the gap between research and policy communities through a weeklong boot camp for early-career researchers. The program will provide valuable insights into public policy-making and support participants in advancing their research while contributing to policy development.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 5, 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.

Solvent sieve method sets new record for perovskite light-emitting diodes

Researchers developed highly efficient and stable perovskite light-emitting diodes using a solvent sieve method, achieving an operating lifetime of over 5.7 years and a record high external quantum efficiency of 29.5%. The study also demonstrated excellent stability in ambient air conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Watching the enzymes that convert plant fiber into simple sugars

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new technique to study the breakdown of cellulose by enzymes, revealing that hydrogen bonds in the complex molecule act as obstacles. The approach uses infrared light and operando spectroscopy to provide real-time snapshots of the sample, overcoming past limitations.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateFeb 5, 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.

Amsterdam UMC research shows that ultrasound can be used to detect placenta problems in small babies

A study by Amsterdam UMC shows that Doppler ultrasound can detect placenta problems in small babies, identifying those at higher risk of oxygen deficiency and health issues. The measurement is added to the care plan for these undersized babies, allowing for better detection and monitoring of potential problems.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 5, 2024

Study confirms fears that COVID pandemic reduced kindergarten readiness

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted learning and development among school-aged children, with disadvantaged families feeling the effects most severely. Researchers found that only 30% of students were assessed as kindergarten-ready in 2021, compared to 40% in 2018.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 5, 2024

Schmidt Sciences awards $1.95M gift to Mount Sinai's Windreich Department of Artificial Intelligence and Human Health to establish The Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Human Health Fellowship Program

The Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Human Health Fellowship Program will support five fellows over three years, leveraging AI to advance medical research and foster interdisciplinary collaborations. The program aims to attract exceptional talent and provide a platform for groundbreaking research.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateFeb 5, 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.

MSU researchers find early, promising glioblastoma treatment

Researchers at Michigan State University have found a potential breakthrough in treating glioblastoma by targeting an acid sensor on cancer cell membranes. The compound OGM showed remarkable ability to kill glioblastoma cells while leaving normal cells unharmed.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalExperimental Hematology·DateFeb 5, 2024

New weight loss medication may help lower blood pressure in adults with obesity

A new study published in the American Heart Association journal Hypertension found that tirzepatide significantly lowered systolic blood pressure levels in nearly 500 adults with obesity. The results suggest treating obesity with this weight loss medication may be an effective strategy for preventing or treating high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHypertension·DateFeb 5, 2024

Bacterial test for raw, organic milk may require more precision

A standard quality test for raw organic milk is insufficient to distinguish between specific groups of bacteria, highlighting the need for updated criteria at processing plants. Distinguishing between non-sporeforming and spore-forming thermoduric bacteria is crucial to reducing troubleshooting time and improving milk quality.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateFeb 5, 2024

Scientists ‘break the mould’ by creating new colours of ‘blue cheese’

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered a way to create different colors of blue cheese by inducing sexual reproduction in the fungus Penicillium roqueforti. The team created various fungal strains that produce colors ranging from white to yellow-green, red-brown-pink, and light to dark blues.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·Journalnpj Science of Food·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Fatty acids hold clue to creating memories

Researchers have identified the molecular mechanism behind memory creation and found that saturated fatty acids interact with a protein called STXBP1. This interaction coordinates the release of fatty acids and directs communication at synapses in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Injuries from legal interventions involving conducted energy devices

A study of emergency department visits reveals that most injuries from conducted energy devices, such as TASERs, involve young Black and white males from low-income areas. This finding is consistent with existing research on police violence and racial disparities in the US population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2024

Persons diagnosed with PCOS face 8-fold increase in suicide risk

A study of 18,000 women found those diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were 8 times more likely to attempt suicide compared to control group. This increased risk is attributed to higher likelihood of psychiatric conditions such as depressive disorders and anxiety disorders associated with PCOS. Researchers emphasize the ne...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateFeb 5, 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.

Researchers develop rapid test for detecting fentanyl

University of Texas at Dallas researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind, handheld electrochemical sensor that can accurately detect fentanyl in urine within seconds. The device detects even trace amounts of fentanyl with 98% accuracy and could be used to test for the drug in saliva, helping first responders make treatment decisions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

The influence of the cellular environment on vision

Studies on knockout mice have shown that removal of specific matrix proteins leads to visual deficits, including impaired motion processing and synaptic imbalance. This research contributes to a better understanding of visual processing mechanisms, potentially offering new therapeutic approaches.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Computer-engineered DNA to study cell identities

Scientists have created an algorithm to design synthetic DNA segments that indicate the state of cells in real-time. This tool will be used to screen for anti-cancer or viral infection drugs, as well as improve gene and cell-based immunotherapies.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2024

Smells like evolution: Fruit flies reveal surprises in chemical sensing

Researchers discovered surprising secrets about how fruit flies adapt their senses to different environments through gene expression patterns. Thousands of genes had undergone significant changes in expression, shaping unique olfactory landscapes of different fly species.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2024

USC researchers uncover biological circuit that protects plants from extreme conditions

Plants use their circadian clocks to regulate responses to changes in water and salinity levels, offering a new avenue for creating drought-resistant crops. The discovery of the ABF3 feedback loop reveals a delicate balance between boosting stress tolerance and maximizing growth and yield.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

First representative survey of energy insecurity in New York City

A study of 1,950 NYC residents found that 30% experience energy insecurity, leading to respiratory, mental health, and cardiovascular conditions. The population was disproportionately affected by low-income, Black, and Latino residents, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateFeb 5, 2024

Epigenetic combination therapy could overcome treatment resistance in epithelioid sarcomas and rhabdoid tumors

Researchers have identified mechanisms of resistance to tazemetostat in epithelioid sarcoma and rhabdoid tumors, leading to the development of a combination therapy strategy. The therapy uses an epigenetic treatment approach to target specific mutations that drive cancer growth.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Researchers say media focus on vaccine hesitancy distorts reality

A recent poll found 88% of adults have robust confidence in childhood vaccines. Meanwhile, vaccination coverage for children remains high and stable, with 93% of kindergarten students receiving state-required vaccines. The authors argue that constant focus on vaccine hesitancy can distort reality and drive a false narrative.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeNews article·DateFeb 5, 2024

Discovered how to predict whether patients with leukemia will be sensitive to epigenetic drugs

Researchers discovered a link between single cancer cell mutations and clinical response to epigenetic therapy in myelodysplastic syndrome. Patients showing treatment benefits had decreased mutation counts in stem cells and immature granulocytes, suggesting early tumor elimination is key to therapy success.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalCancer Research Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 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.

New kinds of padding could make football gear, bike helmets safer than ever

Researchers have developed a new padding design that can absorb forces in a more efficient way, with the potential to improve safety in various applications. The innovative technology uses a network of hexagonal towers and can be printed on commercially available 3D printers.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateFeb 5, 2024

Extra fingers and hearts: pinpointing changes to our genetic instructions that disrupt development

Scientists have identified a vulnerability in our genomes that can cause developmental defects, such as extra fingers and heart disorders. By analyzing genomic sequences and enhancer variants, researchers found that single-letter changes to the DNA within our genomes can dramatically affect gene expression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Losing sleep over killings of unarmed Black individuals by police

Black adults in the US suffer from short and very short sleep after exposure to news about police killings of unarmed Black individuals. The study's findings suggest that poor sleep health is another tragic byproduct of exposure to these events.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

Methadone use in early pregnancy may lead to more birth defects than buprenorphine

Researchers found that children born to mothers who used methadone during the first trimester of pregnancy had a higher risk of congenital malformations compared to those who used buprenorphine. Buprenorphine was associated with a lower risk of cardiac, clubfoot, and oral cleft malformations.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024