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Science News for May 3, 2024


New discovery of a mechanism that controls cell division

Scientists at Umeå University have identified how a protein complex called the Mediator regulates gene expression, leading to slower cell division. This discovery may pave the way for new treatments for diseases related to uncontrolled cell growth, such as tumors.

SourceUmea University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When injecting pure spin into chiral materials, direction matters

Researchers from North Carolina State University and the University of Pittsburgh studied how pure spin currents move through chiral materials. They found that the direction of spin injection affects its absorption in chiral materials, which could enable the design of energy-efficient spintronic devices for data storage, communication,...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Affordable Care Act expansions improved access to cancer care, study suggests

A study published by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that ACA insurance expansions led to an increase in patients receiving care at accredited cancer hospitals in Pennsylvania. The study suggests that these expansions make a difference in improving access to high-quality cancer care, particularly for those living in areas wi...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHealth Services Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 3, 2024

Beat the heat with radiative cooling

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a novel approach to manage waste heat in microcircuits by adding a tiny coating of silicon dioxide. This increases the rate of heat dissipation, allowing for faster cooling and potentially leading to smaller and cheaper electronic devices.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 3, 2024

High rates of hip osteoarthritis among older adults with spinal deformity

Severe hip OA linked to worse functional impairment and increased ASD severity even after surgery, according to a study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery. Patients with severe bilateral hip OA had poorer physical functioning, disability scores, and correction of spinal alignment.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMay 3, 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.

Hungry, hungry white dwarfs: solving the puzzle of stellar metal pollution

Researchers found that white dwarfs continuously consume smaller objects in their path, explaining the presence of heavy metals on their surface. The 'natal kick' during formation alters the dynamics of surrounding material, causing comets and asteroids to become elongated orbits and move as one coherent unit.

SourceJILA·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 3, 2024

Tweaking isotopes sheds light on promising approach to engineer semiconductors

Researchers have discovered a promising approach to engineer semiconductors by tweaking isotopes, which can influence optical and electronic properties. The study demonstrates that small changes in isotope masses can shift the optical bandgap, enabling tunability for designing new devices.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

A cost-efficient path to a renewable energy grid for Australia

A study by Raheel Ahmed Shaikh and colleagues models the most cost-efficient path to Australia's fully renewable electricity grid. The optimal route would require significant expansion of generation and storage, but could reduce costs with interconnection between eastern and western grids.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateMay 3, 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.

Economies take off with new airports

A global study finds that new airport construction benefits less-developed cities with increased accessibility to the global aviation network, promoting inclusive growth and connectivity. The research used nighttime light intensity as a proxy for economic development, analyzing over 13,000 cities worldwide.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·DateMay 3, 2024

Plants utilize drought stress hormone to block snacking spider mites

Researchers discovered that plants employ ABA to close stomata, obstructing spider mites' entry points and significantly reducing pest damage. The closure of stomata also coincides with the production of ABA, a hormone linked with drought response.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Newly discovered mechanism of T-cell control can interfere with cancer immunotherapies

Researchers at DKFZ and UMM found that NK cells can impair the effect of cancer therapies using immune checkpoint inhibitors by controlling activated T cells. They identified B7H6 as a recognition molecule for NK cell attacks, which could limit excessive activation and expansion of T cells.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalScience Immunology·DateMay 3, 2024

Interferon-beta regulates excessive alternative splicing in multiple sclerosis

A new study found extensive alternative splicing of messenger RNA in untreated multiple sclerosis patients compared to healthy controls. Interferon-ß therapy corrected dysregulated alternative splicing, linking it to future clinical exacerbations.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·TypeObservational study·DateMay 3, 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.

Novel chemical tool for understanding membrane remodelling in the cell

Scientists at Umeå University developed a natural product-like molecule Tantalosin that inhibits interaction between proteins reshaping membranes inside cells. The study reveals a new noncanonical autophagy pathway and potential benefits for cancer treatment.

SourceUmea University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Quantifying U.S. health impacts from gas stoves

A new study estimates that gas stove use in U.S. households may be responsible for up to 200,000 childhood asthma cases annually, with high levels of nitrogen dioxide exposure also causing thousands of deaths. The research found that even electric stoves produce no NO2, and that ventilation is key to reducing pollutant exposures.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 3, 2024

Mental health first-aid training may enhance mental health support in prison settings

Researchers found that Mental Health First Aid training improved correctional officers' ability to distinguish between mental health challenges and other issues. The training also positively impacted their attitudes toward referring incarcerated individuals to mental health professionals. However, there is a need to enhance the mental ...

SourceRutgers University·JournalPsychological Services·TypeSurvey·DateMay 3, 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.

Law fails victims of financial abuse from their partner, research warns

Research warns that law fails victims of financial abuse, with no effective mechanisms to compel lenders to transfer debt. The study recommends greater responsibility for coerced debt and restoration of credit records following the end of an abusive relationship.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalLegal Studies·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 3, 2024

A world with fewer children? Addressing the despair behind declining fertility

Researchers Michael Platt and Peter Sterling link declining fertility to despair, social fragmentation, and economic uncertainty, posing existential threats to humanity. The study highlights the need for interventions addressing hopelessness and promoting social connections to prevent population collapse.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 3, 2024

The American Ornithological Society (AOS) names Judit Szabo as new Ornithological Applications editor-in-chief

Judit Szabo has been appointed as the new editor-in-chief of Ornithological Applications, with expertise in conservation biology and ornithology. She will work closely with current editor-in-chief Catherine Lindell until June 2024 and take over full responsibility on July 1, 2024.

SourceAmerican Ornithological Society Publications Office·JournalOrnithological Applications·DateMay 3, 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.

One vaccine, many cancers

Researchers developed an in-situ cancer vaccine that targets mutated proteins on cancer cells and triggers immunity. The vaccine was combined with chemotherapy, increasing survival rates in AML patients.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalBlood Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Lepra in the middle ages: New insights on transmission pathways through squirrels

Researchers have discovered that medieval English red squirrels hosted the leprosy bacterium M. leprae, shedding light on potential transmission pathways between animals and humans during the Middle Ages. This finding highlights the importance of understanding animal hosts in predicting disease persistence.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Research quantifies “gap” in carbon removal for first time

A new study reveals that current national targets for removing CO2 from the atmosphere will not be enough to achieve the 1.5 ºC warming limit set by the Paris Agreement. The research finds that carbon dioxide removal methods have a small but vital role to play in achieving net zero and limiting climate change impacts.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 3, 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.

Ice shelves fracture under weight of meltwater lakes

New research reveals that ice shelves don't just buckle, but fracture when weighed down by meltwater lakes. This fracturing could cause vulnerable ice shelves to collapse and contribute to sea level rise.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateMay 3, 2024

Drug targeting RNA modifications shows promise for treating neuroblastoma

Researchers at the University of Chicago show that a drug molecule targeting RNA modifications associated with neuroblastoma suppresses tumor growth in mice. High levels of METTL3 expression were linked to significantly lower survival rates in patients, suggesting it drives tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Physics confirms that the enemy of your enemy is, indeed, your friend

Researchers at Northwestern University used statistical physics to corroborate Austrian psychologist Fritz Heider's 1940s social balance theory, which states that enemies of an enemy are friends. The study successfully integrated both constraints of the theory, confirming it for the first time in real-life social networks.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 3, 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.

Did a magnetic field collapse trigger the emergence of animals?

A team of researchers from the University of Rochester has uncovered evidence that a weak magnetic field millions of years ago may have fueled the proliferation of life. The study suggests that fluctuations in Earth's ancient magnetic field led to shifts in oxygen levels, enabling more advanced life forms to emerge.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateMay 3, 2024

Genomes of “star algae” shed light on origin of plants

Researchers have generated complete genome data for four filamentous 'star algae' species, revealing overabundances of signalling genes and environmental response factors that underpin molecular mechanisms shaping plant bodies. The findings provide insights into the origins of land plants and their ability to adapt to environments.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

ADA Forsyth ranks number 1 on the East Coast in oral health research

The ADA Forsyth Institute has ranked as the top oral health research institution on the East Coast, receiving significant funding from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. The institute's researchers have consistently demonstrated excellence in their field, with a strong track record of innovation and impact.

SourceForsyth Institute·DateMay 3, 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.

SMART trial reaffirms hemodynamic superiority of TAVR self-expanding valve in aortic stenosis patients with a small annulus over time and regardless of age

The SMART trial demonstrates clinical non-inferiority and valve performance superiority of self-expanding valves (SEV) versus balloon-expandable valves (BEV) in aortic stenosis patients. The study shows improved hemodynamic outcomes over time, particularly for women with small annuli.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 3, 2024

PAS 2024: Nemours Children’s Health researchers to present on youth mental health, vaccination, autism and respiratory illness

Researchers will discuss key findings on pediatric mental health, vaccination, autism diagnosis, social determinants of cardiovascular health, and treatment of bronchiolitis. Studies examine the relationship between socioeconomic factors and hypertension in youth, long wait times for autism evaluations, and the impact of HPV vaccine up...

SourceNemours·DateMay 3, 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.

Source of pregnancy complications from infections revealed by placenta map

Researchers created panoramic view of infection pathways in human placenta, highlighting potential drug targets for severe pregnancy complications. The study used 'mini placenta' models to map placental response to infections in early development, revealing secondary inflammation as a cause of complications.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell Systems·DateMay 3, 2024

Aligned peptide ‘noodles’ could enable lab-grown biological tissues

Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel fabrication process to create aligned peptide nanofiber hydrogels, which can guide cell growth in a desired direction. The study revealed that cells need to be able to 'pull' on the peptide nanofibers to recognize alignment, and excessive rigidity can prevent this.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Climate change amplifies severity of combined wind-rain extremes over the UK and Ireland

New research shows climate change will cause more severe combined wind-rain extremes in the UK and Ireland, leading to increased flooding and damage. The study found that stronger winds and heavier rainfall are likely to occur together, posing challenges for coastal areas and emergency response resources.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 3, 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.

Stretchable e-skin could give robots human-level touch sensitivity

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a first-ever stretchy electronic skin that can equip robots with human-level touch sensitivity. The new technology overcomes existing limitations in sensing accuracy as the material stretches, allowing for precise control and force manipulation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalMatter·DateMay 3, 2024

The key role of Galectin-3 in brain tumour development

Researchers at the University of Seville discovered Galectin-3's crucial role in brain tumour progression, finding its inhibition significantly reduces glioblastoma size and brain metastases. Inhibition promotes pro-inflammatory markers and reverses immunosuppressive biomarkers, leading to improved outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalCancer Letters·DateMay 3, 2024

New quantum sensing scheme could lead to enhanced high-precision nanoscopic techniques

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth unveiled a quantum sensing scheme that enhances superresolution imaging techniques, circumventing traditional limitations like diffraction. The new technique achieves unprecedented levels of precision, paving the way for new high-precision sensing schemes.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Largest quantitative synthesis to date reveals what predicts human behavior and how to change it

A review of meta-analyses found that interventions targeting individual determinants like habits, behavioral attitudes, and skills are more effective than those targeting knowledge, general attitudes, and beliefs. Social-structural determinants like social support and institutional policies also show promise in changing behavior.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 3, 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.

Catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy system demonstrates safety and effectiveness in patients with pulmonary embolism

A new catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy system demonstrated significant improvement in right ventricle function and minimal major adverse events in patients with acute intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism. The AlphaVac System achieved excellent thrombus removal with a wonderful safety profile.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 3, 2024

How E. coli get the power to cause urinary tract infections

Researchers identify critical genes and transport systems in E. coli that enable rapid growth despite sterile urine environment. ABC transporters appear crucial for infection, with inhibitors potentially slowing bacterial growth and complementing antibiotic efforts.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2024

Towards transparent and antimicrobial surfaces for touch displays

Researchers have developed a transparent nanostructured copper surface that is non-conductive, resistant to bacterial growth, and transparent. The surface shows the ability to eliminate over 99.9% of certain bacteria present in tested surfaces within two hours, maintaining its effectiveness even after rigorous wipe testing.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalCommunications Materials·DateMay 3, 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.

ChatGPT can be helpful for Black women’s self-education about HIV, PrEP

A new study suggests that ChatGPT can be a valuable tool for Black women's self-education about HIV prevention. The AI chatbot provided culturally sensitive information and empathetic responses when addressing questions specific to Black women, highlighting its potential to bridge healthcare gaps in marginalized communities.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateMay 3, 2024

New study reveals age-related brain changes influence recovery after stroke

A groundbreaking study found that areas of age-related damage in the brain relate to motor outcomes after a stroke, suggesting other factors are at play. White matter hyperintensities were associated with more severe motor impairment, independent of corticospinal tract damage.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNeurology·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 3, 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.

Birdwatching can help students improve mental health, reduce distress

A new study finds that birdwatching can improve subjective well-being and reduce psychological distress in college students compared to nature walks or a control group. Birdwatching was found to yield higher gains in well-being and more reduction in distress than nature exposure.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateMay 3, 2024