Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for June 21, 2024


New research casts doubt over cryptocurrencies’ ‘safe haven’ properties

A recent study published in the International Review of Financial Analysis suggests that cryptocurrencies are not completely disconnected from economic risks. The research found that during turbulent periods like the COVID-19 pandemic and Ukraine war, cryptocurrency prices experienced increased volatility.

SourceBangor University·JournalInternational Review of Financial Analysis·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2024

Cleveland Clinic study shows weight loss surgery cuts risk of heart complications and death in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and obesity

A Cleveland Clinic study finds bariatric surgery cuts the risk of major cardiovascular events by 42% and all-cause mortality by 37% in patients with obesity and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. The study analyzed data from 13,657 adult patients who underwent weight loss surgery between 2004 and 2018.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 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.

New study reveals the costs of sanctions

A new study examines the economic effects of sanctions on Iran and Russia, finding significant declines in GDP and prosperity. The researchers propose transferring funds to mitigate welfare losses among participating countries, suggesting a more effective approach to sanctioning.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalEconomic Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2024

SQUID pries open AI black box

A new system named SQUID, a computational tool created by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory scientists, helps interpret how AI models analyze the genome. It reduces background noise and leads to more accurate predictions about genetic mutations.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·DateJun 21, 2024

Cannabis use tied to increased risk of severe COVID-19

A new study by Washington University School of Medicine found that cannabis users are nearly twice as likely to need hospitalization and intensive care when infected with COVID-19. Cannabis use was associated with a higher risk of severe illness, similar to tobacco smoking.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2024

Membrane protein analogues could accelerate drug discovery

Researchers at EPFL have created a deep learning pipeline to design soluble analogues of cell membrane proteins, making them easier to study and use in pharmaceutical development. The approach has shown remarkable success in producing functional proteins that maintain parts of their native functionality.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 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.

Lab-grown muscles reveal mysteries of rare muscle diseases

Researchers at Duke University have developed a technique to grow complex, functional 3D muscle tissue from stem cells in the laboratory, replicating patient symptoms and treatment responses. The study reveals biological mechanisms underlying LGMD2B's characteristic loss of mobility and demonstrates that existing treatments may allevia...

SourceDuke University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Beyond CRISPR: seekRNA delivers a new pathway for accurate gene editing

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed SeekRNA, a programmable tool that can precisely target and relocate genetic sequences with high accuracy and flexibility. This breakthrough technology surpasses current limitations of CRISPR, enabling more precise editing and reducing errors.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Pacific Northwest Research Institute uncovers hidden DNA mechanisms of rare genetic diseases

Researchers at PNRI reveal how specific DNA rearrangements called inverted triplications contribute to the development of various genetic diseases. These complex rearrangements are caused by segments of DNA switching templates during the repair process, leading to disruptions in normal gene function and contributing to genetic disorders.

SourcePacific Northwest Research Institute·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Transforming drug discovery with AI

TopoFormer uses a transformer model trained on tens of thousands of protein-drug interactions to recreate 3D structures as one-dimensional information that current models can understand. This enables more accurate predictions of new drug interactions and potentially reduces development time and costs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateJun 21, 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.

Human activity: A double-edged sword in the face of drought

A new study suggests that human activities may actually reduce the severity of droughts in certain regions. Climate model simulations indicate that aerosols and greenhouse gases produced by human activities have opposite effects on atmospheric chemical composition and precipitation mechanisms. This research challenges previous conclusi...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJun 21, 2024

CAMH research suggests potential targets for prevention and early identification of psychotic disorders

A new study by CAMH found that nearly 75% of young Ontarians with a psychotic disorder had at least one mental health service visit within three years prior to their first diagnosis. The study suggests that youth with a psychotic disorder are nearly four times as likely to have a previous mental health-related hospital admission.

SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 21, 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.

Easter Island’s ‘population crash’ never occurred, new research reveals

Researchers used modern technology to estimate the number of rock gardens on Easter Island and food production, revealing that the island couldn't sustain a large population. The study's findings contradict the long-held notion of an ecological catastrophe and instead suggest a more sustainable approach to agriculture.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 21, 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 old is your bone marrow?

A study published in Blood reveals that hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow of genetically identical middle-aged mice aged differently. The team found that subtle changes in the bone marrow microenvironment and two growth factors, Kitl and Igf1, correlated with age-associated molecular programs in the stem cells.

SourceJackson Laboratory·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Leipzig biophysicists decipher functionality of adrenaline-binding receptor

Researchers deciphered how the β2 adrenergic receptor transmits signals at an atomic level, revealing its three-dimensional structure and biochemical cascades. The study provides new insights into G-protein coupling and may lead to improved drug development for obesity research.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Grafted cucumbers get a boost: pumpkin's secret to withstanding salinity

Researchers at Huazhong Agricultural University discovered a genetic synergy between pumpkin and cucumber that fortifies the latter's resilience against salinity. The CmoDREB2A gene from pumpkin interacts with the CmoNAC1 gene in cucumbers to enhance salt tolerance through regulating H2O2 and ABA signaling and K+/Na+ homeostasis.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 21, 2024

Pennington Biomedical researchers partner on award-winning Long Covid study

Researchers are exploring inflammation caused by COVID-19 as a trigger for Long Covid, a condition characterized by persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath. The study aims to identify potential causes and treatments for Long Covid, with findings that could lead to enhanced immune function in patients.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateJun 21, 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.

Promise green hydrogen may not always be fulfilled

Researchers find that green hydrogen's life cycle emissions can negate CO2 gains, especially during transportation. The study highlights the need for a more holistic approach to evaluating the technology's environmental impact.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 21, 2024

Unraveling the role of ADGRF5: Insights into kidney health and function

Scientists have discovered that ADGRF5 helps maintain the integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier, which is critical for filtering waste from the blood. The study found that disrupting ADGRF5 expression led to abnormalities in the glomerular basement membrane and increased albuminuria.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Researchers unveil molecular mechanisms of somatostatin receptor 5 activation by neuropeptides and drugs

A study published in PNAS reveals the molecular mechanisms underlying SSTR5 activation by neuropeptides and drugs, including cortistatin-17 and octreotide. The researchers employed single-particle cryo-electron microscopy to determine three-dimensional structures of SSTR5 bound to these ligands, showing how they trigger conformational ...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2024

Mapping the heart to prevent damage caused by a heart attack

Researchers created an integrated cellular map of a mouse model heart, pinpointing cells and pathways involved in fibrosis. The study identified myofibroblasts as the major drivers of scarring, but also discovered a 'matrifibrocyte' form that may prevent scar resolution.

SourceVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

Supporting the right small changes can have big impacts

A new IIASA-led study introduces a dynamic systems approach to understanding social tipping points, which include looking at interconnected feedback mechanisms and interactions across different systems and scales. Small actions can lead to significant changes that ripple through social and economic systems.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 21, 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.

Controlling electronics with light: the magnetite breakthrough

Scientists have discovered that specific light wavelengths can induce non-equilibrium transitions in magnetite, a well-studied material. This breakthrough enables the control of electronic properties at ultrafast timescales, opening up new avenues for advanced materials and device development.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2024

Berkeley Lab researchers advance AI-driven plant root analysis

Berkeley Lab's RhizoNet harnesses AI to transform how scientists study plant roots, offering new insights into root behavior under various environmental conditions. The tool semantically segments plant roots for comprehensive biomass and growth assessment, propelling efforts toward self-driving labs.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 2024

Landmark Nature Medicine study reports promising new treatment reduces suffering in Sanfilippo syndrome

A landmark clinical trial collaboration has reported significant improvements in neurobehavioral and functional outcomes for children with moderate to advanced stages of Sanfilippo syndrome. The study found anakinra, a recombinant interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, to be safe and effective in reducing disease symptoms.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 21, 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.

Body image and overall health found important to the sexual health of older gay men, according to new studies

Research from George Mason University found that internalized gay ageism negatively impacts older gay men's sexual satisfaction when mediated by body image. However, internalized gay ageism does not influence erectile dysfunction. Older gay men in open relationships are more likely to be sexually satisfied.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJournal of Homosexuality·TypeSurvey·DateJun 21, 2024

Mashed up purple marine bacteria makes an excellent eco-friendly fertilizer

A new study by RIKEN CSRS shows that biomass from purple photosynthetic marine bacterium Rhodovulum sulfidophilum is an excellent nitrogen fertilizer, effective as inorganic synthetic fertilizers but with lower environmental side effects. The biomass boosts plant growth without altering soil pH or salinity.

SourceRIKEN·Journalnpj Sustainable Agriculture·DateJun 21, 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.

Towards error-free quantum computing: A symbolic model checking approach to verify quantum circuits

Researchers developed a symbolic model checking approach to verify quantum circuits, addressing the gap between model-checking quantum programs and quantum circuits. They used Maude programming language to formally specify and verify quantum circuits, confirming their correctness and paving the way for error-free quantum computing.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalPeerJ Computer Science·DateJun 21, 2024

Simple test for flu could improve diagnosis and surveillance

A new CRISPR-based paper strip test could allow more patients to get the right treatment for the flu, researchers say. The test distinguishes between different influenza types and can be reprogrammed to recognize other viruses.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJun 21, 2024

ALS: Newly discovered subtypes and sex differences create new approaches for drugs

A study by TUM researchers discovered four subtypes of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) with different molecular processes, including sex differences. The findings suggest repurposing an approved cancer drug targeting the MAPK pathway as a promising therapeutic approach for ALS.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 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.

Unlocking the entrepreneurial brain: new perspectives on cognitive flexibility

A recent study found that habitual entrepreneurs have increased gray matter volume in the left insula compared to managers, a brain region associated with enhanced cognitive agility and divergent thinking. This suggests that the brains of habitual entrepreneurs are adapted to foster cognitive flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalJournal of Business Venturing Insights·DateJun 21, 2024

New insights into methyl jasmonate-induced saponin biosynthesis in balloon flower

A study reveals the PgbHLH28 gene plays a crucial role in saponin biosynthesis in Platycodon grandiflorus, leading to enhanced medicinal value and potential for pharmaceutical industry applications. The findings provide a theoretical foundation for improving saponin content through genetic engineering and advanced cultivation practices.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 21, 2024

Cannabis, tobacco use, and COVID-19 outcomes

A cohort study found that cannabis use was an independent risk factor for COVID-19-related complications, even after considering other risk factors. The study suggests that cannabis may increase the risk of severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 21, 2024

Heart failure in space: scientists calculate potential health threats facing future space tourists in microgravity

Researchers used a model of the heart and lung system to simulate how microgravity could affect space tourists with underlying health issues, such as heart conditions. The study found that entry into microgravity increases cardiac output in all individuals, but for heart failure patients, this increase is accompanied by a dangerous ris...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 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.

Most young people have at some point inflicted offline or online violence on their partners

A recent study by the University of the Basque Country found that 80.4% of young people admitted to inflicting offline violence on their partners, while 55% said they had done so online. The researchers also discovered differences in psychological profiles between victims of face-to-face and online dating violence.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalPsicologia Reflexão e Crítica·TypeCase study·DateJun 21, 2024

How to make ageing a ‘fairer game’ for all wormkind

A study by researchers at the Center for Genomic Regulation found that changes in mRNA content between germline and somatic cells are the primary source of variation in lifespan. Knocking down specific genes increased life expectancy, suggesting randomness in gene activity affects ageing.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2024

After ISIS bombs, an urgent call to preserve an ancient Syrian temple

The Temple of Bel in Palmyra faces significant damage after ISIS bombing, highlighting the need for its preservation and the return of the local population. The site's history and archaeological importance are crucial to stabilize, ensuring global cooperation and a shared ambition to protect the monument.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalBulletin of the American Society of Overseas Research·DateJun 21, 2024

Researchers find depression assessments reliable across technology, setting, and type

A new study by researchers at New York University finds that electronic forms and phone interviews are as reliable as in-person assessments for diagnosing depression symptoms. The study evaluated over 60,000 people using three different assessment tools and found negligible differences in scores across different modalities.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 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.

Activating molecular target reverses multiple hallmarks of aging

Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified a small molecule compound that restores physiological levels of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), reducing cellular senescence and tissue inflammation. TERT restoration also spurred new neuron formation with improved memory and enhanced neuromuscular function.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCell·DateJun 21, 2024

Scientists document self-propelling oxygen decline in the oceans

Scientists from the University of Copenhagen have found that a chain reaction involving phosphorus recycling played a key role in ancient ocean anoxia. This self-amplifying loop led to rapid and prolonged marine anoxia, which could still pose a threat today due to human activities influencing nutrient dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 21, 2024

Unlocking broccoli's genome: key to enhanced health benefits

A genomic study of broccoli has identified key genes involved in glucosinolate biosynthesis, offering insights into the production of compounds with anti-carcinogenic properties. The research provides a comprehensive understanding of the genetic factors influencing glucosinolate diversity among different Brassica species.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 21, 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.

Boosting biodiversity without hurting local economies

A new study by Duke University researchers finds that nearly half of protected areas can benefit both nature and people, with a balanced approach. The study suggests smaller, closer-to-market protected areas are more likely to achieve this balance, without harming local economic growth.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2024

Empowering older adults: Wearable tech made easier with personalized support

A systematic review found that community-dwelling older adults are more likely to use wearable monitoring devices if they receive support from healthcare professionals or peers. The interventions that increased awareness and used collaborative goal-setting tools showed the best results.

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 21, 2024

Metformin and AGIs show potential for improved outcomes in COVID-19 patients with type 2 diabetes

A comprehensive retrospective study found metformin and AGIs reduced all-cause mortality in COVID-19 patients with T2DM, while insulin use was linked to increased risk of death. The study suggests these treatment options may be more suitable for this vulnerable population.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMolecular Biomedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 21, 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.

Drugs for HIV and AIDS trialed as brain tumor treatment for first time

Scientists are conducting a clinical trial to explore the use of anti-retroviral medications Ritonavir and Lopinavir as a potential treatment for brain tumors in patients with Neurofibromatosis 2. The study aims to determine if these drugs can help reduce tumor growth and survival in NF2 patients.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 21, 2024

Study challenges popular idea that Easter islanders committed ‘ecocide’

Researchers found that Rapa Nui's population remained stable and small, with a sustainable food system based on rock gardens where sweet potatoes were grown. The study challenges previous estimates of high population sizes and highlights the islanders' resilience in coping with limited resources.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 21, 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.

Resiliency shaped by activity in the gut microbiome and brain

A new UCLA Health study found that resilient individuals have neural activity in brain regions associated with emotional regulation and better cognition. They also exhibited a healthy gut microbiome with reduced inflammation and improved gut barrier function.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2024

Up to 30 percent more time: Climate change makes it harder for women to collect water

A new study finds that climate change could lead to a doubling of daily water collection times for women in certain regions by 2050. The researchers estimate that this would result in substantial welfare losses, equivalent to tens to hundreds of millions of US dollars per country and year.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 2024

Study identifies first drug therapy for sleep apnea

Researchers have developed a novel drug therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has shown significant improvements in reducing breathing interruptions and improving overall health. The treatment targets both respiratory and metabolic complications, providing a promising alternative to existing therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 21, 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.

Unifying behavioral analysis through animal foundation models

Researchers have developed a new open-source tool, SuperAnimal, that can automatically recognize keypoints in various animal species without human supervision. This enables standardized labeling efforts and training large-scale datasets for behavioral phenotyping.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 21, 2024