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Science News for January 26, 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.

Researchers discover why one type of chemotherapy works best in bladder cancer

Researchers discovered that cisplatin chemotherapy enhances the immune system's ability to fight bladder cancer by modulating the immune response and damaging DNA in cancer cells. This approach may lead to durable disease control in a subset of patients with metastatic bladder cancer.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJan 26, 2024

Scientist identify candidate genes associated with albinism in Wels catfish

A research team has discovered a set of candidate genes causing albinism in Wels catfish by analyzing gene expression patterns and splicing variation in multiple tissues. These genes are also linked to albinism and pigmentation disorders in humans, channel catfish, and mice.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalComparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part B Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 2024

Orchestrating plant organ symmetry in style

A recent study published in Nature Plants reveals that O-glycosylation of the transcription factor SPATULA promotes Arabidopsis style development. The experimental study sheds new light on the mechanisms underlying plant organ symmetry.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

How waves and mixing drive coastal upwelling systems

Researchers found that coastal trapped waves and tidal mixing control primary production in the tropical Angolan upwelling system. Productivity peaks occur seasonally, with strong fluctuations during austral winter.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalScience Advances·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 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.

Sclerostin shown to be key protein for cardiovascular health in patients with type 2 diabetes

A study has found that sclerostin plays a beneficial role in reducing arterial calcification and promoting cell survival in patients with type 2 diabetes. The protein's cardioprotective function may have significant implications for therapeutic strategies in this patient population.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalCardiovascular Diabetology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 26, 2024

USC Stem Cell study shows how gene activity modulates the amount of immune cell production in mice

Researchers at USC Stem Cell lab discovered nearly 40 genes associated with immune cell production, including those related to diseases like myelodysplastic syndrome. The study found that gene activity was linked to specific levels of immune cell production, offering insights for improving bone marrow transplantation strategies.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Scientists design a two-legged robot powered by muscle tissue

Researchers in Japan have developed a two-legged biohybrid robot that uses muscle tissues to achieve fine movements and efficiency. The robot can walk, stop, and make precise turning motions, paving the way for future advancements in robotics.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

UC Irvine-led team unravels mysteries of planet formation and evolution in distant solar system

Astronomers at the University of California, Irvine, have compiled precise measurements of six exoplanets in a recently discovered solar system. The team used a combination of radial velocity analysis and transit timing variations to determine the planets' masses and orbital properties.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 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 tool helps predict progression of Alzheimer’s

Researchers at UTA developed a novel learning-based framework to predict Alzheimer’s disease progression. The DETree strategy can pinpoint clinical status within the disease spectrum, allowing for more accurate planning and potential applications in other diseases with multiple stages of development.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPharmacological Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2024

Finding clues about the origin of life on Earth inside meteorites

Researchers have discovered nitrogen-bearing biorelevant molecules, including amino acids and nucleobases, in the Winchcombe meteorite. These findings suggest that the meteorite may have delivered crucial organic molecules to early Earth, potentially influencing the origin of life.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2024

COVID-19 pandemic perceived as less serious than other health problems

A recent study found that respiratory illnesses and water-borne diseases were ranked as more serious health problems than COVID-19 in most countries. The survey, conducted across seven middle-income countries, highlights the importance of not crowding out ordinary healthcare services during pandemics.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How a timekeeping gene affects tumor growth depends entirely on context

Researchers found that the loss of Bmal1 reduces melanoma tumor growth, contrary to expectations. The study also uncovered mechanisms of tumor suppression and resistance to immunotherapy, suggesting a contextually variable role for the circadian clock in cancer.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2024

Neural network enables objective assessment of breast symmetry

A newly developed neural network is highly accurate in identifying key landmarks important in breast surgery, enabling rapid and automated detection of breast symmetry. The network's performance was tested using a set of photographs of patients who underwent breast reconstruction after cancer surgery.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJan 26, 2024

Glacier melting destroys important climate data archive

Researchers found that global warming made the Corbassière glacier unusable as a climate archive, destroying reliable information about past climate and air pollution. The glacier's ice core showed flattened concentration curves and lower amounts of trace substances, likely due to meltwater washing away the deposits.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

Rice study shows coal-based product could replace sand in concrete

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a graphene-derived material that can serve as a substitute for sand in concrete, offering a potential solution to the looming 'sand crisis.' The study found that the graphene-based concrete is 25% lighter but just as tough as conventional concrete.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Using fMRI, new vision study finds promising model for restoring cone function

Researchers used fMRI to assess brain responses to lights stimulating only cone cells in dogs with different types of retinal diseases. The study found that gene augmentation therapy restored response in cortex to black and white stimulation, making this disease a promising one for photoreceptor cell replacement treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalTranslational Vision Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Immunocompromised patients and COVID infections: Who’s at risk?

A recent study published in Lancet Microbe suggests that immunocompromised patients are at higher risk for COVID infections, but prolonged infections lasting weeks to months are uncommon. The study found that specific conditions, such as B-cell cancers and autoimmune diseases, increase the risk of prolonged infections.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateJan 26, 2024

Flame-retardant chemicals may increase risk of preterm birth, higher birth weight

A Rutgers Health study found that pregnant women exposed to certain flame-retardant chemicals may face an increased risk of preterm birth, especially for baby girls, or higher birth weights. The study linked three specific markers of organophosphate ester exposure to shorter pregnancies and higher risks of preterm birth in female infants.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 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.

CityU neuroscientists uncover the therapeutic potential of low-dose ionizing radiation for traumatic brain injury and ischemic stroke

Researchers found that low-dose X-ray irradiation reduced lesion size and reversed motor deficits in TBI and ischemic stroke mice, demonstrating its potential as a therapeutic strategy. The treatment also accelerated substantial motor function recovery and promoted brain rewiring after stroke.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

New tool improves the search for genes that cause diseases

A new statistical model developed by UChicago researchers accurately identifies causal genes and variants for a disease. The tool reduces false positives and takes into account multiple genes and variants, leading to the discovery of 35 putative causal genes for LDL cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2024

A long-lasting neural probe

A team of researchers from Harvard and Texas developed a soft implantable device with dozens of sensors to record single-neuron activity stably for months. The device uses fluorinated elastomers and is 10,000 times softer than conventional flexible probes.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2024

‘Cancer-cooling’ protein puts bowel cancer on ice

A protein called Ku70 can be activated to help overcome bowel cancer by detecting damaged DNA in cells. The protein prevents cancer cells from becoming more aggressive and spreading, keeping them dormant. Researchers hope this breakthrough will lead to improved early detection and treatment methods.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Engineered battery chemistry for fast charging capabilities

Researchers successfully improved lithium metal battery charging rates by adding a cesium nitrate compound, while maintaining long cycle life. The new findings challenge conventional beliefs about effective interphase components and contribute to the development of high-energy density batteries.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 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.

Researchers have mapped mortality due to heat waves

A new study has mapped the health risks of heatwaves in India, finding that mild heatwaves are the deadliest, while extreme ones have fewer deaths due to their infrequency. The research highlights the need for policymakers to plan for both common and extreme heatwaves to protect public health.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEnvironment International·DateJan 26, 2024

Turning glass into a ‘transparent’ light-energy harvester

Scientists have discovered that exposing tellurite glass to femtosecond laser light creates nanoscale crystals that can generate electricity when exposed to light. This breakthrough enables the creation of a transparent, single-material light-harvesting and sensing device.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJan 26, 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.

Use it or lose it: How seagrasses conquered the sea

Research findings show seagrasses have evolved unique adaptations to thrive in marine environments, including genome duplication and fine-tuning of supportive pathways. The study's results provide clues for conserving and sustainably using these important ecosystems.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

App enhances nurses' care coordination competency for critically ill patients

A new app developed by Toho University researchers enhances nurses' care coordination competency for critically ill patients on life support. The app utilizes the Nurses' Care Coordinate Competency Scale and provides immediate feedback to improve care coordination behaviors.

SourceToho University·JournalJapan Journal of Nursing Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2024

Decoding how the brain manages the appetite for salt and water

Researchers have identified two distinct brain regions involved in regulating salt and water intake, which can help prevent excessive consumption. The parabrachial nucleus plays a crucial role in feedback mechanisms that reduce thirst and salt appetite after ingesting water or salt.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

Puffed-up MOFs for improved drug delivery

Researchers optimized a chromium-containing MOF to expand its pore size and surface area, increasing its ability to carry and deliver therapeutic compounds. The puffed-up MOFs showed improved performance as potential drug-delivery vehicles, releasing drugs substantially faster than the original version.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateJan 26, 2024

Locusts’ sense of smell boosted with custom-made nanoparticles

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis used specially made nanostructures to enhance the locust's ability to detect odors, boosting neural signals for improved chemical sensing. The team created a biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticle that converts light to heat, amplifying neural activity.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2024

How to elicit an authentic ‘yes’

Cornell researchers developed scripts to provide targets with a specific way to decline requests, finding that this intervention was more effective at increasing feelings of freedom to say 'no'. The study aimed to reduce pressure and resentment in responses to requests.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 26, 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.

Predictive model detects potential extremist propaganda on social media

Researchers developed a predictive model to detect users and content related to Islamic State extremists on social media, identifying potential propaganda messages and their characteristics. The study's findings can help social media companies and law enforcement agencies track and prevent the spread of extremist propaganda.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Network Analysis and Mining·DateJan 26, 2024

New climate record for Italy during Roman period reveals role of climate change in social crisis, pandemic disease

A newly published study provides a high-resolution climatic record for ancient Italy, revealing phases of climatic instability that overlap with periods of social and political crisis. The marine core record also shows a strong association between episodes of rapid climate change and epidemics of infectious disease.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 26, 2024

Genomic “butterfly effect” explains risk for autism spectrum disorder

Researchers discovered that de novo mutations in promoter regions of TADs containing known ASD genes are associated with increased ASD risk due to interactions in the three-dimensional structure of the genome. This 'butterfly effect' explains how mutations can affect distant ASD-related genes, highlighting the need for a new diagnostic...

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

Common cold or COVID-19? Some T cells are ready to combat both

La Jolla Institute researchers discovered that prior exposure to a common cold coronavirus partially protects mice from lung damage during a subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Harnessing 'cross-reactive' T cells may lead to novel vaccines with broad, pan-coronavirus protection.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.

First database of the impacts of invasive plants in Europe

A comprehensive database of invasive plant impacts in Europe has been created, featuring 266 peer-reviewed publications and 4,259 field studies. The dataset highlights the widespread effects of invasive species on native ecosystems, including impacts on plants, animals, and microbes across various trophic levels.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNeoBiota·DateJan 26, 2024

Shuffling robot uses biological muscle to move and spin

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a two-legged biohybrid robot capable of walking and pivoting underwater. The robot uses lab-grown skeletal muscle tissue to move its legs, achieving efficient and silent movements. Future iterations aim to develop thicker muscles with nutrient supplies to enable robots to walk on land.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Job flows into and out of health care before and after the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a substantial increase in healthcare workforce turnover, with approximately 18 million employees experiencing job changes. Long-term implications for workers' willingness to remain in healthcare jobs are uncertain, highlighting the need for proactive measures by policymakers and healthcare organizations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJan 26, 2024

Sustainable practices can save Mexico's blue agave, tequila and bats

Researchers found that with sufficient financial incentives and educational resources, many agave farmers are willing to adopt sustainable cultivation practices that allow for some natural flowering and seed production. This can help protect genetic diversity and benefit bats pollinating the flowers and feeding on the nectar.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEnvironmental Research Communications·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 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.

Study: Stars travel more slowly at Milky Way’s edge

A team of MIT physicists analyzed Gaia and APOGEE data to find stars farther out in the galactic disk are rotating more slowly than expected. This flat rotation curve indicates a lower mass galactic core, potentially containing less dark matter than previously estimated.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 26, 2024

Powering the future: Unlocking the role of hydrogen in lithium-ion batteries

Researchers investigate how LiCoO2 materials store and release hydrogen at room temperature, revealing insights into the degradation process. The study paves the way for more efficient batteries and low-energy production of hydrogen through water splitting.

SourceMeijo University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 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.