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Science News for May 24, 2024


Caterpillars can detect their predators by the static electricity they emit

Caterpillars respond defensively to electric fields similar to those emitted by their natural predators. The study found that caterpillar hairs move in response to electric fields and are most sensitive to frequencies corresponding to wingbeat frequencies of other insects.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2024

With wobbling stars, astronomers gauge mass of 126 exoplanets and find 15 new ones

Researchers used the TESS-Keck Survey to detect and characterize 126 exoplanets, including 15 new ones. The study utilized both the transit method and radial velocity technique to determine the planets' masses. This collaboration provides new insights into the makeup of exoplanet systems and their host stars.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateMay 24, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Can triglycerides-HDL-C ratio, HOMA-IR, ApoB, non-HDL cholesterol, and free cholesterol be laboratory-associated flags of female coronary atherosclerosis regardless of being diabetic?

Research finds insulin levels correlate with triglycerides, ApoB, non-HDL cholesterol, and free cholesterol in women with atherosclerotic coronary disease. The study suggests these laboratory-associated flags indicate early coronary atherosclerosis in both diabetic and non-diabetic women.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Biomarkers Journal·DateMay 24, 2024

ASCO: Large precision oncology study identifies differences in prostate cancer genomics among a racially and ethnically diverse cohort of U.S. veterans

A genomic study of over 5,000 veterans with advanced prostate cancer reveals significant differences in frequencies of alterations associated with race and ethnicity. Alterations in immunotherapy targets were more common in Black veterans, potentially leading to opportunities for precision-based therapy.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateMay 24, 2024

Identification of the world's deepest recorded deep-sea trematode species

Researchers from Toho University identified a new species of parasitic trematode, Lepidapedon oregonense, found in the deep sea at depths of 1000-6200 m. The DNA analysis revealed that it was identical to a previously unknown species documented at an even greater depth of 6200 m.

SourceToho University·JournalJournal of Helminthology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2024

Autonomous medical intervention extends ‘golden hour’ for traumatic injuries with emergency air transport

A breakthrough in trauma care has nearly quadrupled the 'golden hour' for treating large animals with internal bleeding during emergency ground and air transport. Researchers used a closed-loop, autonomous intervention system to resuscitate pigs with traumatic injuries, extending their survival time by several hours.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalIntensive Care Medicine Experimental·DateMay 24, 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.

PKMYT1, a potential ‘Achilles heel’ of treatment resistant ER+ breast cancers with the poorest prognosis

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine identified PKMYT1, a protein kinase associated with resistance to endocrine therapy and CDK4/6 inhibitors in ER+ breast cancers. The study found that combining a PKMYT1 inhibitor with chemotherapy drug gemcitabine selectively reduced the viability of resistant cancer cells.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024

Virginia Tech researcher creates new tool to move tiny bioparticles

A Virginia Tech researcher has developed a new tool that uses robotics and acoustic energy to move small targets, such as cells and medicine, within the body without cutting or invasive procedures. The 'invisible tweezers' have potential applications in various fields, including engineering, biology, and chemistry research.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 24, 2024

Understanding a broken heart

A new study reveals that heart failure leaves a 'stress memory' in hematopoietic stem cells, which can lead to recurrent heart failure and other health issues. The researchers propose improving TGF-β levels as a new avenue for treating recurrent heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Immunology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 24, 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.

New advances in cancer viral immunotherapy

A new strain of vaccinia virus has been developed to induce immunogenic cell death in tumor cells, increasing immunogenicity and reducing toxicity. The virus shows high efficiency in activating immune responses against various types of cancer, including melanoma, colon, and kidney cancer.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024

Survey reveals growing support for changing Australia Day date

A survey of Australian citizens reveals growing support for changing Australia Day date due to respect for First Nations people. Reconciliation Day on May 27 is the most popular alternative date, with younger respondents more likely to support a change.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAnalyses of Social Issues and Public Policy·TypeSurvey·DateMay 24, 2024

Genetic cause of rare childhood immune disorders discovered

Researchers have identified genetic changes that can leave children born with little to no immune defense against infection. The study links mutations in the NUDCD3 gene to Severe Combined Immunodeficiency and Omenn syndrome, rare and life-threatening immunodeficiency disorders.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2024

Academician Chen Wei's team reveals a new mechanism of hyaluronic acid with a specific molecular weight (300-400 kDa) improving host inflammation

Researchers found that hyaluronic acid with a specific molecular weight improves host inflammation by modulating the gut microbiota and metabolites. The optimal molecular weight range of hyaluronic acid to improve host inflammation has been identified, providing new strategies for alleviating inflammation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateMay 24, 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.

Study finds discreet shipping used to sell e-cigarettes to minors

Researchers found 45% of TikTok videos promoting age-verification-free sales, highlighting a loophole in local and federal laws. Small business owners used hashtag challenges like #discreetshipping to circumvent regulations, selling products via Instagram or Telegram.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeContent analysis·DateMay 24, 2024

Duke-NUS researchers develop new light-controlled ‘off switch’ for brain cells

Researchers have discovered a new class of light-sensitive proteins that can turn off brain cells with light, providing an unprecedentedly effective tool to study brain function. This breakthrough offers exciting opportunities for applying optogenetics to understand the underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2024

Controlling water, transforming greenhouse gases

Researchers from the UChicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have found a way to manipulate water molecules to make CO2R more efficient, achieving nearly 100% efficiency under mildly acidic conditions. The new method uses either gold or zinc as catalysts and can be scaled up using cheaper, more abundant materials.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Catalysis·DateMay 24, 2024

Autophagy in pancreatitis

Defective autophagy in pancreatitis allows damaged organelles to accumulate, disrupting cellular function and potentially leading to cell death. Researchers identified therapeutic targets within the autophagy pathway, including VMP1 and TFEB.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateMay 24, 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.

Novel organic photoredox catalysts with enhanced stability and recyclability

A team of researchers from Okayama University developed a novel phenothiazine-based organic photoredox catalyst with enhanced stability and recyclability. The new catalyst, PTHS, features a spiral structure that provides improved stability and can be recycled multiple times without losing catalytic activity.

SourceOkayama University·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024

Liver lesions at risk of transformation into hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients

The detection and management of borderline hepatic nodules, particularly those hypointense in the HBP without APHE, are critical in preventing overt hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Advances in imaging technologies have improved detection and characterization of these nodules, leading to better patient prognosis.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology·DateMay 24, 2024

How COVID-19 'breakthrough' infections alter your immune cells

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that people who experienced breakthrough COVID-19 infections develop T cells better equipped to recognize and target SARS-CoV-2. The study also discovered that B cells produce more diverse antibodies targeting common epitopes between the vaccine and variants.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 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.

New mechanism of immune evasion in squamous cell carcinoma, offers potential for improved treatment

Researchers identified TP63 as a master regulator promoting immune evasion and affecting immunotherapy efficacy in squamous cell carcinoma. Inhibition of TP63 improves CD8+ T cell infiltration and tumor killing, offering a potential strategy to enhance anti-tumor immunotherapeutic effects.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 24, 2024

COVID-19 admission rates and changes in care quality in us hospitals

A cross-sectional study found that COVID-19 surges are associated with declines in hospital quality, emphasizing the importance of maintaining care standards during periods of high hospital use. The study highlights the need for effective strategies to mitigate these declines and ensure continued high-quality care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 24, 2024

Possible association between tattoos and lymphoma revealed

A recent study from Lund University suggests that tattoos may be a risk factor for cancer in the lymphatic system. Researchers found that individuals with tattoos had a 21% higher risk of developing lymphoma compared to those without tattoos.

SourceLund University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateMay 24, 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.

To 6G and beyond: Penn engineers unlock the next generation of wireless communications

Researchers at Penn Engineering have developed an adjustable filter that can prevent interference and enable the use of higher-frequency bands in wireless communications. The filter, made from a unique material called yttrium iron garnet, is tiny and requires minimal power, making it suitable for future mobile devices.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024

Political elites take advantage of anti-partisan protests to disrupt politics

New research from the University of Notre Dame reveals that protest movements against political parties can inadvertently empower politicians who use them to disrupt the status quo. The study analyzed 12 case studies across Europe, Asia, and North and South America between 2008 and 2016, finding varying outcomes including factional cha...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAmerican Journal of Sociology·TypeCase study·DateMay 24, 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.

High H5N1 influenza levels found in mice given raw milk from infected dairy cows

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found high H5N1 virus levels in mice administered raw milk from infected dairy cows. The results suggest that consuming raw milk may pose a risk for H5N1 infection, highlighting the need for further research into pasteurization and its effectiveness.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 24, 2024

More than spins: Exploring uncharted territory in quantum devices

Researchers demonstrate a way to describe spin-boson systems and efficiently configure quantum devices in a desired state. Non-Gaussian states are used to retain powerful mathematical machinery while describing diverse quantum states.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 24, 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.

Nationwide study reveals burden and geographic patterns of sepsis among hospitalized non-child cancer patients in China

A nationwide study found a high incidence rate of sepsis cases among non-child cancer patients in China, with males exhibiting higher rates than females. The study also revealed significant geographic variations in sepsis burden across China, with regions having lower and higher development levels exhibiting elevated rates.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateMay 24, 2024

Micron plate Sm2O3 composites enhance neutron and gamma radiation protection

Researchers created a novel composite material by adding Sm2O3 micron plates to boron-containing polyethylene, improving thermal stability, mechanical strength, and radiation shielding properties. The material showed excellent performance in blocking neutron and gamma radiation, with up to 98.7% blockage at 15 cm thickness.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateMay 24, 2024

Semaglutide significantly reduces risk of major kidney disease events, cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease, groundbreaking study reveals

A groundbreaking study reveals semaglutide significantly reduces the risk of major kidney disease events, cardiovascular outcomes, and all-cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Semaglutide also shows improved safety and efficacy profiles.

SourceBeyond·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 24, 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.

Scientists discover CO2 and CO ices in outskirts of solar system

A research team led by UCF's Mário Nascimento De Prá and Noemí Pinilla-Alonso discovered carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ices on 59 trans-Neptunian objects using the James Webb Space Telescope. The findings suggest that carbon dioxide was abundant in the protoplanetary disk, while the origin of carbon monoxide remains uncertain.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 24, 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.

ASCO: Combination therapy significantly improves outcomes for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

A study by UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers found that combining experimental immunotherapy drugs with chemotherapy significantly improves progression-free survival and overall survival for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The median progression-free survival was 6.2 months compared to 2.1 months f...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateMay 24, 2024

Innovative material for sustainable building

Researchers at KIT have developed a novel polymer-based metamaterial that combines properties of light diffusion, self-cleaning, and radiative cooling while maintaining transparency. The material can optimize indoor lighting, provide passive cooling, and reduce reliance on air conditioning.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateMay 24, 2024

Theory and experiment combine to shine a new light on proton spin

A recent study combines experimental data with state-of-the-art calculations to reveal new details on the origins of proton spin. The research shows that gluons, which hold protons together, contribute significantly to the proton's spin, contradicting earlier findings.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review D·DateMay 24, 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 spotlight: Virtual scribes reduced physicians’ time spent on electronic health records

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that virtual scribes can significantly reduce the time physicians spend on electronic health records. The study analyzed data from 144 physicians across specialties who used real-time or asynchronous virtual scribe services for at least three months, resulting in reduced time spent on no...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2024

Ambitious targets are needed to end ocean plastic pollution by 2100

A study suggests that reducing plastic pollution by 5% per year can stabilize the level of microplastics in surface oceans. However, even a 20% reduction may not significantly impact existing microplastics levels, which will persist in oceans beyond 2100.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMay 24, 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.

Observing mammalian cells with superfast soft X-rays

Researchers developed a new technique to view living mammalian cells using ultrafast pulses of illumination from a soft X-ray free electron laser. The microscope captured images of carbon-based structures in living cells with high spatial resolution and a wide field of view, revealing new insights into cellular biology.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024