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Science News for July 12, 2024


Unraveling disease patterns in older adults starting long-term care in Japan and their future health outcomes

Researchers identified six clinical subtypes in older adults starting long-term care in Japan, including cardiac disease, respiratory disease/cancer, and insulin-dependent diabetes, which incur higher mortality risks and worsen care needs. These findings can inform optimal interventions for each subtype and influence healthcare policy.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 12, 2024

Rutgers researchers spot potential hazard with private well water treatment

Researchers found arsenic treatment media in 71% of tested homes and water softener resin in 84% of homes with water softeners, posing potential health risks to users. The study highlights the need for further research and recommends installing a post-treatment sediment filter to capture escaping media.

SourceRutgers University·JournalWater Environment Research·DateJul 12, 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.

Variation in the permafrost active layer over the Tibetan Plateau since 1980

The Tibetan Plateau's permafrost active layer has shown significant interdecadal changes since 2000, with a decrease in overall thickness and regional inconsistencies. Environmental factors such as temperature and precipitation significantly impact the active layer's transformation under global warming.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJul 12, 2024

High and low tide cause low and high methane fluxes

Research shows that methane fluxes in the North Sea vary with tidal pressure, with emissions potentially three times higher or lower depending on the tide. This affects climate science's understanding of methane emission from the seafloor.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJul 12, 2024

How plant cold specialists can adapt to the environment

An international team of evolutionary biologists investigated the genomic underpinnings of plant adaptation to cold environments. The study found that polyploids exhibit genomic structural variants with signals for possible local adaptation more frequently than diploid species.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2024

Living in disadvantaged neighborhoods influences stress-related genes, which may contribute to aggressive prostate cancer in African American men

A study found that living in disadvantaged neighborhoods is associated with higher stress-related gene activity, which could contribute to aggressive prostate cancer in African American men. The research also linked five genes related to inflammation to an increased risk of prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 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.

Mathematics outreach program awarded Dolciani grant

The Program for Research in Mathematics at Texas A&M University has been awarded a Dolciani Mathematics Enrichment Grant to support its efforts to promote math enrichment for high school students. With the grant, the program will expand access to digital resources and provide more comprehensive training materials.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJul 12, 2024

Neural networks made of light

Researchers at Max Planck Institute propose a new method for implementing neural networks with optical systems, which could lead to faster and more energy-efficient alternatives. The approach allows for parallel computations in high speeds limited by the speed of light, and can be applied to various physically different systems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 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.

Scientists find new way global air churn makes particles

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have found a new mechanism that produces a significant amount of particles in the Earth's atmosphere, which could impact climate change and weather patterns. The discovery suggests that stratospheric air intrusions play a crucial role in forming these particles.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2024

Microbeads with adaptable fluorescent colors from visible light to near-infrared

The team created microbeads that emit various colors of light depending on the illuminating light and bead size, offering a wide range of applications. The use of plant-derived materials allows for low-cost and energy-efficient synthesis, making them an attractive alternative to conventional luminescent devices.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 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.

Why are board games so popular among many people with autism? New research explains

A new study reveals that people with autism are overrepresented in board gaming compared to the general population, and playing modern board games provides a social outlet in a structured space. The research also shows that board games take pressure off meeting and interacting with others, offering a form of escapism.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 2024

The OHStat Guidelines for Reporting Observational Studies and Clinical Trials in Oral Health Research

The IADR and AADOCR published the revised OHStat guidelines to improve reporting in oral health research, incorporating CONSORT, STROBE, and SAMPL guidelines. The guidelines also recommend estimating results in clinically meaningful units using confidence intervals, rather than relying on P values.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 12, 2024

With gene editing, mice with a form of inherited deafness can hear again

Researchers used gene editing to restore hearing in adult mice with a form of inherited deafness called autosomal dominant deafness-50 (DFNA50). The approach involved shutting down a damaged copy of the microRNA (miRNA) gene, which enabled the animals to regain hearing. This method may eventually lead to potential treatments for inheri...

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 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.

Complex impact of large wildfires on ozone layer dynamics

A new study reveals that large wildfires can significantly impact the ozone layer through a 'smoke-charged vortex,' doubling aerosol burden in the middle stratosphere and buffering up to 40% of ozone depletion. This phenomenon highlights the need for continued research into climate change's effects on atmospheric chemistry.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJul 12, 2024

Challenges and prospects for post-conflict peacebuilding in urban settings

A recent study analyzes the impact of post-siege reconstruction and peacebuilding in urban environments, focusing on Marawi City, Philippines. The findings suggest that urban characteristics, such as people, places, and practices, play a crucial role in shaping the rebuilding process.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of Current Southeast Asian Affairs·DateJul 12, 2024

Severe droughts limit Amazonian communities' access to basic services

A recent study found that nearly 50% of non-Indigenous localities and 54% of Indigenous villages in the Brazilian part of the Amazon basin are prone to isolation during severe droughts. Severe droughts result in extended periods of low water levels, affecting communities' access to goods, services, healthcare, education, and livelihoods.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2024

Brain inflammation triggers muscle weakness after infections

Researchers identified a protein that travels from brain to muscles, causing muscle fatigue. Studies in fruit flies and mice found that this process is relevant to inflammatory diseases, including bacterial infections, Alzheimer's disease, and long COVID. Blocking this pathway may prevent or treat muscle weakness.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Sant Pau researchers discover a new gene that causes ALS

A study by Sant Pau Research Institute identified a new mutation in the ARPP21 gene linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 10 patients from 7 unrelated families. The finding suggests that ARPP21 is a novel ALS-causing gene with potential for personalized therapies and diagnosis.

SourceInstitut de Recerca Sant Pau (Sant Pau Research Institute)·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 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 ways to study spinal cord malformations in embryos

Researchers created tiny force sensors directly in chicken embryos to study spinal cord malformations. The study aims to prevent congenital malformations by identifying new preventative and therapeutic strategies. Quantifying mechanical forces during embryonic development promises a step change in understanding development.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Insight into one of life’s earliest ancestors revealed in new study

A new study has provided insight into the earliest life form on Earth, revealing that it lived approximately 4.2 billion years ago and was capable of a complex biological system. The findings also suggest that this ancient organism possessed an early immune system and was able to exploit its environment.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2024

Light-activated drugs against neuropathic pain

A team of researchers has developed light-activated compounds that can inhibit nerve signals locally and on demand, offering a potential treatment for neuropathic pain. The compounds, which are activated by amber-colored light, show photopharmacological activity in animal models.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Big connectome imaging data in psychiatric disorders

Recent advances in connectomics and neuroimaging big data are providing critical insights into the pathophysiology of psychiatric conditions. These studies offer potential biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment evaluation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalMedicine Plus·DateJul 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Groundbreaking study reveals insights into Alzheimer's disease mechanisms through novel hydrogel matrix

Researchers have developed a multi-component hydrogel scaffold to mimic the amyloid-beta containing microenvironment associated with AD. The study found elevated levels of neuroinflammation and apoptosis markers in healthy neuronal progenitor cells cultured within this environment.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalActa Biomaterialia·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Synthetic biology reveals the secrets of life without oxygen

Anaerobic bacteria have survived for ages in oxygen-free niches, influencing human health and environment. The 'AnoxyGen' project aims to unlock their biosynthetic potential using molecular and synthetic biology tools.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·DateJul 12, 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.

People with Long COVID three times more likely to leave work - study

A new study from the University of Birmingham and Keele University found that people with Long COVID symptoms lasting over 28 weeks are three times more likely to leave employment. The research highlights the significant impact of Long COVID on individuals' employment outcomes, particularly for those who leave work.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateJul 12, 2024

Complex impact of large wildfires on ozone layer dynamics unveiled by new study

Researchers found that wildfire-induced aerosols can lead to both ozone depletion and increase at different atmospheric layers, with the middle stratosphere experiencing an increase in ozone concentrations. This complex interplay buffers approximately 40% of ozone depletion observed in the lower stratosphere.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 12, 2024

A chemical claw machine bends and stretches when exposed to vapors

Scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology developed a tiny 'claw machine' that can pick up and drop a marble-sized ball in response to exposure to chemical vapors. The material's properties can be precisely controlled, making it easy to customize.

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Study examines urban forests across the United States

Researchers analyzed six US cities and found that tree species in parks were more drought-tolerant and reflected greater native biodiversity than those in residential yards. The study highlights the importance of planting drought-tolerant trees in urban areas to adapt to future climate change.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 12, 2024

Researchers discover a new neural biomarker for OCD

A recent study identified a novel biomarker to predict clinical status in individuals with treatment-resistant OCD undergoing deep brain stimulation therapy. The biomarker targets pathological avoidance behaviors and has shown promising results in improving symptom management.

SourceTexas Children's Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 12, 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.

Research alert: All stem cell therapies are not created equal

Researchers found that autologous bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) and adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (ADSVF) have distinct cellular compositions and protein profiles. The study's findings challenge the marketing of these therapies as interchangeable and highlight the need for standardized cell therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 12, 2024

Progress in the management of patients with cholestatic liver disease: where are we and where are we going?

Significant progress has been made in understanding and managing cholestatic liver diseases, with emerging therapies like OCA, fibrates, and budesonide. Multidisciplinary approaches involving hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and primary care physicians are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateJul 12, 2024

Unprecedented warming threatens earth’s lakes and their ecosystems

A recent study predicts that lakes worldwide will experience unprecedented surface and subsurface warming, leading to severe disruptions in ecosystems. Tropical lakes are expected to be the first to emerge from natural temperature bounds, while high-latitude lakes may shield their subsurface layers from surface warming.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 12, 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.

Melanopsin DNA aptamers can regulate input signals of mammalian circadian rhythms by altering the phase of the molecular clock

Researchers developed DNA aptamers of melanopsin to regulate mammalian circadian rhythms. Four Melapts induced a phase advance and seven caused a delay in the biological clocks of cells and mice. The aptamers may have potential therapeutic applications by manipulating melanopsin's input signals to the central clock.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

Greater attention needs to be paid to malnutrition in the sick and elderly

A review article by Uppsala University researchers highlights the global issue of malnutrition in the sick and elderly, affecting up to 50% of hospital patients in Sweden. Simple measures such as counselling, dietitian collaboration, and nutritional drinks can reverse malnutrition and improve quality of life.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 12, 2024

Study challenges traditional views of evolution

A study on Daphnia pulex found that natural selection pressures vary significantly over time, maintaining genetic variation and enhancing adaptability. The research reveals a more dynamic and complex understanding of evolution, suggesting the environment influences genes frequently, potentially helping species adapt to future conditions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024

UMass Amherst awarded $2.1 million to advance the science of engagement in community-academic research partnerships

The study aims to empower underrepresented populations in health research through a novel approach called engagement mapping, which identifies barriers to research partnerships and co-designs strategies to address them. The pilot study will test the feasibility of this approach with community advisory councils at two institutions.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateJul 12, 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.

Researchers create groundbreaking cotton quality model to aid farmers

MSU researchers developed a new cotton quality module as part of the GOSSYM application, simulating plant growth and yield. The tool can predict crop growth, yield, and fiber quality, providing valuable insights for farmers to maximize income and resiliency in the face of climate change.

SourceMississippi State University·JournalField Crops Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 12, 2024

Expanding marine reserves will redistribute global fishing effort

A new study predicts that expanding marine protected areas will decrease both inside and outside the reserves, challenging common assumptions about ocean conservation. The research model used historical fishing data and machine learning to forecast the impact of large-scale closures on global fishing effort.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 12, 2024

2023 Rolling Hills Estates landslide likely began the winter before

Researchers at UCLA and NASA's JPL found that the 2023 Rolling Hills Estates landslide was a slow-moving, progressive event that began with heavy winter rainfall. The study used satellite data to measure ground motion over time, revealing subtle movements before accelerated collapse.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 12, 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.

5 Questions: How opioid treatment can keep newborns out of foster care

A recent study published in JAMA Health Forum found that opioid-exposed newborns are 41% more likely to be discharged home with their biological mother when mothers receive medication for opioid use disorder during pregnancy. This reduction in risk is significant, as it can have a positive impact on families and the child welfare system.

SourceEmory University·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 12, 2024

Screen media use and mental health of children and adolescents

A short-term reduction in leisure-time screen media use within families was found to positively affect psychological symptoms of children and adolescents. This effect was particularly notable in mitigating internalizing behavioral issues and enhancing prosocial behavior.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 12, 2024

Biomarkers reveal how patients with glaucoma may respond to treatment

Researchers at UCL and Moorfields Eye Hospital have identified biomarkers that predict which patients with glaucoma are at higher risk of continued vision loss despite conventional treatment. Mitochondrial function in white blood cells is lower in people with glaucoma, leading to faster vision loss.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 12, 2024

A better way to make RNA drugs

A team of scientists at Harvard University developed a new RNA synthesis process that produces RNA with efficiencies comparable to current industry standards. The novel method can incorporate all common molecular modifications found in RNA drugs, expanding the RNA therapeutic design space.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 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.

Research shows gamified investment sites have risks for novice investors

Research shows that gamified investing platforms can lead to more frequent trading among novice investors, who are often susceptible to 'fun trading' and make ill-advised strategies. Meanwhile, knowledgeable investors prefer neutral platforms with fewer features.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalManagement Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2024