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Science News for July 26, 2024


New study disputes Hunga Tonga volcano’s role in 2023-24 global warm-up

A new study published by Texas A&M University researchers found that the Hunga Tonga volcano eruption did not contribute to global warming as initially thought. Instead, the eruption resulted in more energy leaving the climate system than entering it, leading to a slight cooling effect.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateJul 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.

Conflicting health advice from agencies drives confusion, study finds, but doctors remain most trusted

A new study in Frontiers in Medicine found that individuals who perceive conflict among experts about health recommendations have significantly lower trust in health information provided by government health agencies. Doctors were the most trusted source of information, with high trust reported by 95% of respondents.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 26, 2024

New additive process can make better — and greener — high-value chemicals

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed an eco-friendly method to precisely mix fluorine into olefins using natural enzymes and light, offering a more efficient strategy for creating high-value chemicals with potential applications in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable fuels and more.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024

"Just like your mother?" Maternal and paternal X-chromosomes show skewed distribution in different organs and tissues.

A study reveals that the usage of maternal and paternal X-chromosomes is not uniform throughout the body. Instead, different organs may prefer one over the other. Cells competing for 'permission' to form specific cell types drive this skew. The findings provide insight into the underlying principles of development in XX individuals.

SourceMedical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Medical Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 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.

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.

‘Dancing molecules’ heal cartilage damage

Researchers developed an injectable therapy harnessing fast-moving 'dancing molecules' to repair damaged human cartilage cells. The treatment activated gene expression necessary for cartilage regeneration within four hours, and human cells produced protein components needed for cartilage growth after just three days.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024

AI method radically speeds predictions of materials’ thermal properties

Researchers developed a machine-learning framework that can predict phonon dispersion relations up to 1,000 times faster than other AI-based techniques, with comparable or even better accuracy. This method could help engineers design more efficient power generation systems and develop faster microelectronics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·DateJul 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.

BRCA1/2: Why men should be screened for the ‘breast cancer gene’

A recent review article highlights the importance of genetic testing for men carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, which increase their risk of developing prostate, pancreatic, and breast cancers. The guidelines emphasize the need for personalized cancer screening to help identify high-risk individuals.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 26, 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.

The ancestor of all modern birds probably had iridescent feathers

Researchers used a family tree of 9,409 bird species to explore the spread of color across the globe. They found that iridescence originated outside of the tropics and in most cases arose 415 times across the bird tree of life, suggesting the common ancestor of all modern birds likely had iridescent feathers too.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 26, 2024

Outsourcing conservation in Africa

A study by University of California - Santa Barbara researchers found that NGO park management improves measures for wildlife, including reducing elephant poaching and increasing tourism. However, it also increases the risk of armed groups targeting civilians in protected areas, particularly in conflict zones.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 2024

ISU studies explore win-win potential of grass-powered energy production

A research team at Iowa State University is studying how to efficiently turn harvested grass into lucrative renewable natural gas, creating wins for farmers, businesses, municipalities, and society. The analysis finds that renewable natural gas is the most economically practical focus, with a lower carbon footprint compared to traditio...

SourceIowa State University·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 26, 2024

Lampreys possess a ‘jaw-dropping’ evolutionary origin

Researchers found a strikingly similar pluripotency gene network across jawless and jawed vertebrates, suggesting a common evolutionary origin. The study reveals that the loss of the pou5 gene in lampreys' neural crest cells may have limited their ability to form cell types found in jawed vertebrates.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 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.

“Prelude” to neuromuscular disease SMA may offer chances for better treatment

Researchers found anomalies in embryonic development of individuals with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which could lead to new treatment options. These abnormalities were recreated in laboratory-grown tissue cultures called organoids, revealing key insights into the disease's progression.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024

Atomic 'GPS' elucidates movement during ultrafast material transitions

Researchers successfully applied atomic pair distribution function (PDF) analysis at X-ray free-electron laser facilities to study ultrafast material transitions. They discovered a new material phase, resolving years-long scientific debate and paving the way for designing novel transitioning materials with commercial applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 26, 2024

Study finds targeting inflammation may not help reduce liver fibrosis in MAFLD

Researchers at UCLA Health found that reducing inflammation may not influence the extent of liver fibrosis in MAFLD. The study suggests that other pathways could be more effective in targeting fibrosis and improving outcomes for patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 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.

Medical and educational indebtedness among health care workers

A recent study found that medical and educational debt collectively exceeds $150 billion among US health care workers. Educational debts disproportionately burden Black workers, while medical debts are more prevalent among women, home health personnel, and those with recent hospitalizations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 26, 2024

New clam species discovered in South Africa’s kelp forest

A new study reveals a previously unknown galeommatoidean bivalve species, Brachiomya ducentiunus, found attached to sea urchins in False Bay's kelp forest. The discovery expands our understanding of marine biodiversity and ecological interactions.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 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.

Green hydrogen from direct seawater electrolysis- experts warn against hype

Direct seawater electrolysis is not necessary for green hydrogen production, as a simple desalination process can prepare seawater for conventional electrolysers. The development of new types of electrolysers that can operate steadily in seawater would only save the cheap purification step.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJoule·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 26, 2024

Ancient DNA analyses imply brucellosis evolved with development of farming

Researchers analyzed ancient DNA from an 8,000-year-old sheep bone and found evidence of Brucella melitensis, a pathogen causing significant harm to livestock. The study suggests that brucellosis evolved around the same time as farming development, with early farmers creating conditions for pathogen host-jumping.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 26, 2024

Supporting school re-entry of children with special health care needs post extended hospitalizations

A recent study published online in Disability and Rehabilitation found that transitioning children with special health care needs back to school after extended hospitalizations can be challenging due to lack of coordination and communication between healthcare and educational systems. The study recommends improving communication, provi...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalDisability and Rehabilitation·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 26, 2024

An artificial hepatocyte growth factor mimetic ameliorates non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in mouse model

A research group developed a long-acting artificial hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mimetic molecule using cyclic peptides and protein engineering. The molecule improved liver fibrosis, lipid accumulation, and inflammation in a mouse model with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), providing an option for NASH therapeutics.

SourceNano Life Science Institute (NanoLSI), Kanazawa University·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 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.

US state restrictions and excess COVID-19 pandemic deaths

A cross-sectional study found that strict COVID-19 measures were associated with reduced pandemic mortality rates, likely due to behavioral changes. However, not all restrictions were equally effective, with some imposing substantial costs without significant benefits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateJul 26, 2024

A deep dive into polyimides for high-frequency wireless telecommunications

Researchers measured dielectric properties of 11 polyimides to establish correlation between molecular structure and dielectric behavior. The study revealed that higher fluorine content resulted in lower dielectric constant values, enabling potential applications for 6G technologies.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024

UMBC scientists work to build “wind-up” sensors

Researchers at UMBC have created a new material for storing energy in devices, outperforming traditional lithium-ion batteries. The material uses twisted single-walled carbon nanotubes to store up to three times more energy per unit mass than advanced batteries.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2024

Investigating the effect of alemtuzumab in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in patients with inborn errors of immunity

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology found alemtuzumab to be safe and effective in treating Asian patients with inborn errors of immunity after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. The drug was shown to improve overall survival rates, with 94.7% of patients surviving post-transplantation.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalJournal of Clinical Immunology·DateJul 26, 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.

Microgrids: Resilient city for everyone

A study by KIT researchers provides urban planners with a template for designing microgrids that integrate socio-economic factors and societal participation. The model aims to create equitable access to energy and services for all population groups, particularly vulnerable ones, in the face of power outages and crises.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 26, 2024

Combination of drugs produces promising results in combating cancer and will be clinically trialed in Europe

Researchers developed a new approach to combat cancer by hyperactivating tumor cells, making them stressed and vulnerable to specific drugs. The combination strategy showed promising results in colorectal and pancreatic adenocarcinoma models, paving the way for potential treatment options.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJul 26, 2024

Building bridges between cells for brain health

Microglia establish contact with neurons through tunnelling nanotubes to clear toxic protein aggregates, reducing oxidative stress and restoring vital functions. Healthy mitochondria are also transferred from microglia to affected neurons, preserving energy production and neuronal survival.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNeuron·TypeObservational study·DateJul 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.

Innovative method for 3D quantitative phase imaging

Researchers at UCLA have developed a wavelength-multiplexed diffractive optical processor that enables all-optical multiplane quantitative phase imaging. This approach allows for rapid and efficient imaging of specimens across multiple axial planes without the need for digital phase recovery algorithms.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJul 26, 2024

Developed a 21-language, fast and high-fidelity neural text-to-speech technology that works on smartphones

A novel, fast and high-quality neural text-to-speech model was successfully developed using a Transformer encoder + ConvNeXt decoder and MS-FC-HiFi-GAN. The model can synthesize one second of speech at high speed in just 0.1 seconds using a single CPU core, achieving eight times faster synthesis than conventional methods.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 2024

Study finds big disparities in stroke services across the US

A new study found significant disparities in stroke services across the US, with hospitals in disadvantaged communities up to 42% less likely to obtain stroke center certification. Hospitals serving affluent communities are more likely to become certified, which improves patient outcomes and access to critical treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 26, 2024

Balancing instability and robustness: new mathematical framework to understand dynamics of natural systems

Researchers introduce ghost channels and cycles to understand transient behaviors in complex systems like climate processes or neuronal networks. This new approach challenges traditional concepts based on stable or unstable equilibria, potentially helping predict tipping cascades and ecosystem degradation.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 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.

Climate is most important factor in where mammals choose to live, study finds

A new study by North Carolina State University researchers found that climate was the most important factor in determining where mammals can thrive. Climate change will affect wildlife populations, and understanding these factors is crucial for making sustainable decisions about mammal population management.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalDiversity and Distributions·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2024

Advanced biosensor uncovers role of gibberellin in integrating light signaling and stem growth in plants

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that gibberellin hormone plays a crucial role in integrating light signaling and stem growth in plants. Using advanced biosensors, they found that gibberellin levels are higher in longer cells and that a specific enzyme called GA20ox1 produces a gradient that controls cell elon...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Plant Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 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.

Cervical cancer screening and prevention

Cervical cancer is a significant global health issue, with over 443,000 deaths annually projected by 2030. Widespread HPV vaccination and regular screening are crucial in preventing infections and early detection of abnormalities.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalCancer Screening and Prevention·DateJul 26, 2024