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Science News for June 28, 2024


To regenerate the kidney, please don’t pass the salt

Researchers at USC Keck School of Medicine discovered that a low-salt diet can stimulate kidney regeneration and repair in mice by targeting the macula densa region. This finding holds promise for developing a new therapeutic approach to treat chronic kidney disease, which affects millions worldwide.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

Mount Sinai study reveals significant differences in RNA editing between postmortem and living human brain

Researchers found major differences between postmortem and living prefrontal cortex brain tissues, with higher levels of RNA editing in postmortem tissues. These discoveries will shape the development of diagnostics and therapies for brain diseases, highlighting the need to study both living and postmortem samples.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 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.

New study shows meaningful social interactions boost well-being, but context matters

A new study found that engaging in meaningful social interactions with peers is associated with lower loneliness and greater affective well-being. The research also highlights the importance of context in these interactions, suggesting that online or offline settings have a positive impact on well-being during lockdowns.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

Dissipationless layertronics in axion insulator MnBi2Te4

Researchers have designed prototype devices for layer filters, valves, and reversers using layer-polarized chiral topological domain wall modes in MnBi2Te4. These devices offer a theoretical basis for establishing layertronics with dissipationless manipulation of layer degree of freedom.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJun 28, 2024

Climate change to shift tropical rains northward

A study predicts that tropical rains will shift northward in the coming decades, impacting regions such as central Africa, northern South America, and Pacific island states. The shift is caused by changes in the atmosphere spurred by carbon emissions, which would have significant effects on agriculture and economies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 28, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Prostate cancer test is missing early disease in transgender women

A recent study published in JAMA found that transgender women on hormone therapy have drastically lower PSA levels, which may lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The researchers analyzed Veterans Health Administration records and recommended caution when interpreting PSA values in transgender women.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJun 28, 2024

Work-related nerve injuries are common with repetitive motions

Research highlights occupational nerve injuries as a predictable mechanism, often caused by compression, stretch, vibration, and repetitive muscle movements. The study aims to equip clinicians with understanding of biomechanical factors that interact with anatomy to damage nerves.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMuscle & Nerve·DateJun 28, 2024

Drone technology aid restoration, resilience of Native Hawaiian fishponds

Researchers used drones to map loko iʻa at the community level, providing insights into flooding and future sea level rise impacts. Drones accurately estimated observed flooding during extreme high tide events, while LiDAR models overestimated flooding by two to five times.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 28, 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.

City of Hope study suggests changing the gut microbiome improves health outcomes for people newly diagnosed with metastatic kidney cancer

Researchers found that a live biotherapeutic product CBM588, when taken orally, can improve health outcomes in people with metastatic kidney cancer. The study, published in Nature Medicine, suggests that the agent may enhance effectiveness of FDA-approved cancer immunotherapies by adjusting the gut microbiome.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 28, 2024

Deep learning-assisted lesion segmentation in PET/CT imaging: A feasibility study for salvage radiation therapy in prostate cancer

Researchers explore the feasibility of deep learning models in segmenting lesions on PET/CT images to improve salvage radiation therapy planning for prostate cancer. The study demonstrates promising potential to reduce inter- and intra-observer variations, leading to more accurate treatment outcomes.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 28, 2024

UEA leads Europe-wide project to revolutionise childhood bone cancer treatment and research

A new Europe-wide clinical framework aims to collect high-quality biological samples from patients, enabling researchers and clinicians to understand the genetic, biological, and other factors involved in childhood bone cancer. This will guide the development of tailored treatments for each patient's cancer type.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 28, 2024

New class of Mars quakes reveals daily meteorite strikes

Researchers estimate that between 280 to 360 meteorites strike Mars each year, forming impact craters greater than 8 meters across. The study uses seismic data from the NASA InSight Mission to make this estimate, which is five times higher than previously thought.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 28, 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.

Creating supranormal hearing in mice

Researchers successfully increase inner ear synapses in young mice to produce supranormal hearing, supporting a hypothesis on the cause of hidden hearing loss in humans. The study suggests that preserving or increasing synapses may improve auditory processing and offer new treatment options for certain hearing disorders.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

Breakthrough research makes cancer-fighting viral agent more effective

Researchers from Aarhus University have discovered that combining a cancer-fighting viral agent with the drug 4-Octyl-Itaconate (4-OI) enhances its effectiveness in treating resistant cancers. This groundbreaking finding may lead to new treatment options for previously incurable diseases.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2024

Engineered biocatalyst for making "drop-in" biofuels

Researchers develop an artificial fusion protein combining UndB with catalase, creating a whole cell biocatalyst that converts fatty acids to alkenes with high efficiency. The biocatalyst produces pure 1-alkene as a valuable biofuel and can be used to generate a large number of hydrocarbons.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 28, 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.

Tiny bright objects discovered at dawn of universe baffle scientists

Scientists have discovered tiny, bright objects in the early universe that are packed with hundreds of millions of years old stars, defying conventional thinking about galaxy evolution. The objects also harbor surprisingly large supermassive black holes, estimated to be 100 to 1,000 times more massive than our Milky Way's black hole.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 28, 2024

Moffitt researchers develop synthesis method to enhance access to cancer-fighting withanolides

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed a groundbreaking synthesis method for producing withanolides, a class of compounds that inhibit cancer cell growth and induce cell death. The scalable production of these compounds will advance cancer research and treatment development, offering new hope for patients.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

Peak performance: Plants' genetic strategies for surviving high-altitude habitats

Researchers uncover the plant's sophisticated genetic adaptations, including a whole-genome duplication event that bolstered its cold tolerance and other alpine-specific survival traits. The discovery provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of alpine adaptation and could inform agricultural practices in challenging environments.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 28, 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.

ETRI pioneers mass production of quantum dot lasers for optical communications

South Korean researchers have successfully developed technology to mass-produce quantum dot lasers, widely used in data centers and quantum communications. The ETRI Optical Communication Components Research Section has developed indium arsenide/gallium arsenide (InAs/GaAs) quantum dot laser diodes on gallium-arsenic (GaAs) substrates.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateJun 28, 2024

Study reveals why AI models that analyze medical images can be biased

Researchers found that AI models that analyze medical images can predict patient demographics with high accuracy but struggle to diagnose patients from diverse backgrounds. The models use demographic shortcuts, leading to incorrect results for women, Black people, and other groups.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 28, 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.

Mechanobiomaterials: A rising field using mechanobiology principles to program the functional biomaterials

Researchers develop mechanobiomaterials inspired by biomechanics to modulate biological responses with material-tissue mechanical interactions. This approach aims to create biomaterials that can adapt to changing mechanical environments in vivo, enhancing the body's regenerative potential and repairing various tissues.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalMechanobiology in Medicine·DateJun 28, 2024

New predictors of metastasis in patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified cellular and molecular markers that can predict when pancreatic cancer will spread to the liver or other organs. The study found that patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer who showed signs of immune exhaustion were more likely to develop liver metastases.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 28, 2024

Small powerhouses for very special light

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have successfully generated coherent, high-power light using ultrafast electrons in storage rings. By reducing the electron bunch length below the wavelength, they created a source with outputs of several kilowatts.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

From vine to wine: Decoding Malbec's genetic diversity for clonal excellence

A team of researchers has completed the diploid genome assembly of the Malbec grapevine, revealing the genetic factors that contribute to its exceptional wine quality. The study identifies polymorphic regions and gene expression differences among clones, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms driving clonal variation.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateJun 28, 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.

The beginnings of fashion

Researchers suggest eyed needles were used for adornment, signifying the transition from utilitarian to social purposes in clothing. The innovation allowed for more complex, layered clothing and decorative items, marking a significant shift in human attire.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 28, 2024

Tackling the dual threat: a global strategy for PM2.5 and O3 pollution

A recent study reveals that nearly 50% of cities worldwide are affected by PM2.5-O3 compound pollution, with significant spatial correlations between the two pollutants. The research proposes a framework for synergistic control measures, leveraging their spatial and chemical interactions to improve urban air quality and public health.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateJun 28, 2024

Kids given ‘digital pacifiers’ to calm tantrums fail to learn how to regulate emotions, study finds

A study published in Frontiers found that relying on digital devices to calm children's tantrums leads to poorer anger management skills and less effortful control. Children who used digital devices more frequently showed increased frustration and decreased ability to regulate emotions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateJun 28, 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.

Doping photocatalyst for water splitting

Researchers have developed doping strategies to boost photocatalytic activity in water splitting, achieving high quantum yields and efficiencies. By introducing defects and controlling ion release, novel materials are being designed for efficient energy conversion.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateJun 28, 2024

Heritability of body mass index among familial generations

Research emphasizes the impact of parental factors on offspring's health outcomes. The study discovered a significant association between parents' weight status at 17 and their children's risk of obesity. This finding suggests that health issues can be inherited across generations, with parental characteristics playing a crucial role.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 28, 2024

Depictions of depression are often misleading

A recent study found that leading health organizations inaccurately portray depression as a disorder that causes symptoms. Researchers suggest this circular reasoning makes it harder for people to understand their distress. The study's authors aim to promote accurate understanding of mental health conditions.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPsychopathology·DateJun 28, 2024

Air pollution exposure during childhood linked directly to adult bronchitis symptoms in new research

A new study reveals a direct connection between childhood air pollution exposure and adult bronchitis symptoms, suggesting that subtle effects on the respiratory system can persist into adulthood. The research, based on the USC Children's Health Study, found that even when adjusting for asthma or bronchitis symptoms in childhood, expos...

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 28, 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.

NUIST constructed a cross-component background error covariance for strongly coupled land-atmosphere data assimilation

A new study by NUIST's team constructs a coupled background error covariance that considers the interaction between land and atmosphere variables. The results show strong correlations between surface temperature errors and atmospheric temperature, with varying relationships at different altitudes.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJun 28, 2024

New device inspired by python teeth doubles strength of rotator cuff repairs

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a biomimicry-inspired device that nearly doubles the strength of rotator cuff repairs, reducing the risk of re-tearing. The device, made from a biocompatible resin, is designed to grasp soft tissues without tearing and can be customized to individual patients.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 28, 2024

Chemo drug may cause significant hearing loss in longtime cancer survivors

A study by researchers at the University of South Florida found that 78% of testicular cancer survivors experience significant difficulties with everyday listening situations, leading to a reduced quality of life. The research highlights the need for regular auditory evaluations to manage and mitigate long-term hearing damage caused by...

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 28, 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.

Study shows corporate social misbehavior hurts brands

A study by University of Akron researchers found that corporate social irresponsibility like pollution, corruption, discrimination, or poor labor conditions in supply chains significantly damage brand reputation. Clear communication and ethical standards across global operations are crucial to make a positive impression in the market.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeCase study·DateJun 28, 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.

Visualizing core pathologies of Parkinson’s disease and related disorders in live patients

A novel radiotracer, C05-05, enables multi-scale imaging of α-synuclein depositions in living patients with Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The tracer shows high binding affinity and selectivity to α-synuclein, providing a powerful tool for understanding its role in neurodegeneration.

SourceThe National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

Scientists clarify origins of lunar metallic iron

Researchers studied Chang'e-5 samples to understand how solar wind irradiation and micrometeorite impacts form metallic iron nanoparticles, revealing distinct effects on size and optical properties. The study provides insights into lunar surface color variations and remote sensing measurements.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2024

Surprising meteorite impact rate on Mars can act as ‘cosmic clock’

Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered that Mars experiences around 280-360 meteorite impacts per year, exceeding previous estimates. This new tool, known as a 'cosmic clock,' can help scientists date planetary surfaces across the Solar System more accurately.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJun 28, 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.

Drowning in waste: Pollution hotspots in aquatic environments

A recent study identifies areas at risk of waste leakage into aquatic environments, highlighting the need for improved waste management systems and universal waste collection. The research also emphasizes the importance of circular waste management systems to reduce pollution in these ecosystems.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2024

Researchers reveal role of MCT1 in skeletal muscle

The study found that MCT1 regulates mitochondrial biogenesis and exercise activity in skeletal muscle, improving exercise endurance and metabolic phenotypes. MCT1 also plays a crucial role in the 'lactate shuttle' between muscle fibers, enabling efficient energy metabolism.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 28, 2024

Enhancing nasal endoscopy with AI

A new study uses convolutional neural networks to improve nasal endoscopy accuracy and efficiency. The model achieved impressive results, identifying the inferior turbinate and middle turbinate with an average accuracy of 91.5%, precision of 92.5%, and recall of 93.8%.

SourceOchsner Health System·JournalInternational Forum of Allergy & Rhinology·DateJun 28, 2024

Novel mechanism for targeting bone marrow adipocytes to prevent bone loss

Researchers discovered that inhibiting estrogen receptor alpha in adipocytes can rescue bone loss and promote osteogenesis. This approach has potential as a therapeutic target for treating osteoporosis and preventing bone loss.

SourceShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 28, 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.

A few surgical procedures account for high number of opioid prescriptions

Two studies published by researchers at the University of Michigan found that a handful of common surgical procedures, such as tonsillectomies and C-sections, account for large shares of all opioids dispensed after surgery. The studies suggest opportunities to reduce surgical opioid prescribing without compromising pain control.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 28, 2024

Serotonin 2C receptor regulates memory in mice and humans – implications for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers have found that the serotonin 2C receptor plays a crucial role in regulating memory in both mice and humans. The study discovered that non-functional mutations of the receptor are associated with memory deficits in humans, and that administering a serotonin analog can improve memory in animal models of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 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.

Decoding precision cancer care: recent breakthroughs in AI

The article reviews recent advances in applying artificial intelligence to oncology, showcasing promising improvements in cancer care. The authors emphasize the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, rigorous validation, and ethical principles to harness AI's potential.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAI in Precision Oncology·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 28, 2024

New computational microscopy technique provides more direct route to crisp images

Researchers at Caltech have developed a new microscopy technique called APIC that can produce clear, high-resolution images covering large fields of view without the need for iterative trial-and-error methods. This breakthrough eliminates guesswork and allows for faster, more accurate image acquisition.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 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.

Soft, stretchy electrode simulates touch sensations using electrical signals

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego developed a soft, stretchy electrode that can simulate pressure or vibration sensations using electrical signals. The device overcomes existing pain-inducing issues with rigid metal electrodes by conforming to the skin, providing localized stimulation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Robotics·DateJun 28, 2024