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Science News for September 2, 2024


Open Wide: Human Mouth Bacteria Reproduce through Rare Form of Cell Division

Researchers discovered Corynebacterium matruchotii's unique cell division mechanism, enabling dense networks within dental plaque biofilms. This process allows the bacteria to explore their environment and form beneficial interactions.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024

Reef tourism encourages climate action

Research reveals that informing tourists about climate change does not harm their experience and can encourage sustainable actions. Eighty percent of participants wanted more information on climate change to help, highlighting an opportunity for tourism operators to enhance visitor experiences while advancing climate action.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPeople and Nature·DateSep 2, 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.

Giant ultrafast dichroism and birefringence with active nonlocal metasurfaces

A team of international researchers has proposed a metasurface capable of efficiently modulating light polarization, achieving notable amplitude (400%) and phase (90°) variations under low-power photoexcitation. This new material enables the transient modification of optical properties in ultrafast timescales.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 2, 2024

Researchers create an “imprint” on a super photon

Researchers at the University of Bonn have successfully created a Bose-Einstein condensate on a super photon using tiny nano molds. This allows for the shaping of light into a simple lattice structure, which could be used to make information exchange between multiple participants tap-proof.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blood stem cell breakthrough could transform bone marrow transplants

Melbourne researchers have developed a breakthrough in creating lab-grown human blood stem cells, which can be used to treat childhood blood disorders. The cells closely mimic those found in the human embryo and can create specific matched blood cells for transplantation, reducing complications and addressing donor shortages.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024

Color-changing, self-healing hydrogel microparticles: a smart solution for advanced wound care

Researchers developed a self-healing hydrogel dressing with structural color microspheres that can adhere to wounds under near-infrared irradiation. The composite microspheres promote extracellular matrix deposition, neovascularization, and efficient drug release through visual color changes.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024

An important secret to preventing cell damage: The working principle of PAC channels has been revealed!

A study led by Prof. Seo Byeong-Chang has discovered the working principle of proton-activated chloride (PAC) channels, which play a crucial role in protecting cells from acidification-induced damage. The research found that PI(4,5)P2 is essential for activating PAC channels, preventing cell swelling and tissue damage.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 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.

Scientists develop a new structure to control vibration of machines and instruments

Researchers have created a unique structure that combines negative and positive stiffness materials, allowing it to absorb and reduce vibrations in various industries. The 'metastructure' exhibits quasi-zero-stiffness properties, making it effective in isolating vibrations while supporting heavy loads.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024

Can wearable activity trackers detect disease?

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 studies with 1.2 million participants found that wearable technology can accurately detect conditions such as heart rate variability, blood pressure, oxygen levels, sleep quality, skin temperature, hydration, and stress levels. The study suggests that wearable activity trackers could r...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJMIR mhealth and uhealth·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 2, 2024

Revealing the hidden brain: Dr. Marx and Professor Gilon challenge connectome projects and unveil new mechanisms of mentality

Researchers Dr. Marx and Prof. Gilon propose a novel tripartite mechanism of neural memory based on metal-centered complexes within the nECM/PNN, enabling the encoding of emotive states through biochemical interactions. This new understanding underscores the need for a more holistic approach to grasp brain function and mental processes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalInternational Journal of Psychiatry Research·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 2, 2024

The nervous system’s matchmaker

A new algorithm, inspired by the nervous system's matchmaker, pairs drivers with riders in a way that maximizes everyone's happiness. The algorithm creates near-optimal pairings while preserving privacy, making it suitable for everyday applications.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 2, 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.

Pioneering gas-adsorbing materials reveal hidden softness

Early porous coordination polymers (PCPs) exhibit a flexible 'soft' nature, allowing them to adjust their shape and hold more gas. This finding offers new insights into the evolution of PCPs and paves the way for future research and applications.

SourceInstitute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateSep 2, 2024

How cells control gene expression by cleaning up their mistakes

Cells produce three times as many 'unproductive' transcripts with mistakes or unexpected configurations as they do steady-state, finished RNA. These unproductive transcripts are quickly destroyed by a cellular process called nonsense-mediated decay (NMD), which suggests the cell intentionally makes mistakes to regulate gene expression....

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 2, 2024

HKUST Engineering researchers develop groundbreaking platform for one-step production of sperm-like micro-robots to enhance precise drug delivery

Researchers from HKUST developed a novel magnetic actuation platform enabling the efficient production of sperm-like micro-robots, which demonstrate excellent motility and precision in targeted drug delivery. The Vortex Turbulence-Assisted Microfluidics (VTAM) platform streamlines the production process, paving the way for promising bi...

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 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.

Georgia state astronomers make it easier to discover life on other planets

Researchers at Georgia State University have developed a new approach to finding life beyond Earth by focusing on the most abundant type of star in the universe: M dwarfs. With their vast resources and potential for habitable planets, M dwarfs offer the best chance for scientists to discover life-supporting exoplanets.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAnnual Review of Astronomy and Astrophysics·DateSep 2, 2024

KIMM develops wheel that alters stiffness in real time based on situation

The KIMM institute developed a variable-stiffness morphing wheel inspired by surface tension, allowing for real-time adjustment of stiffness to overcome obstacles. The technology has been successfully applied to mobile systems, including a two-wheeled wheelchair that can roll over rocks and stairs with stability.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalScience Robotics·DateSep 2, 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.

False-positive mammography result may discourage women from subsequent screening

A large cohort study found that false-positive mammography results lead to a significant decrease in subsequent screening rates among women. The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, highlights the potential unintended consequence of false positives on routine breast cancer screening participation.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateSep 2, 2024

Cytophysics: how cell nuclei squeeze through

LMU researchers investigated how cell nuclei change shape to migrate through tight spaces, revealing reversible nuclear deformation and adaptation of pulling and pushing forces. The study suggests a biphasic dependence of migration speed on channel width, with maximal transition rates at widths comparable to the nuclear diameter.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 2, 2024

Two-in-one breakthrough: Cutting-edge immunotherapy could hold promise for incurable brain cancer

Researchers at WEHI have identified a promising new two-in-one treatment that targets and destroys glioma cells while strengthening the immune system to prevent future tumour growth. CAR T cell therapy, using a specific immunotherapy targeting EphA3, has shown effective elimination of glioma cells and long-lasting immunity.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateSep 2, 2024

Locomotion control of cyborg insects by charge-balanced biphasic electrical stimulation

Researchers at Beijing Institute of Technology developed a universal system for remote signal output control using infrared signals, enhancing the accuracy of cyborg insect locomotion control. The proposed system uses high-precision digital-to-analog converters and biphasic electrical stimulation signals to minimize muscle tissue damage.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateSep 2, 2024

Global South cities lack cooling green spaces

Research shows that Global South cities have limited urban greenery, resulting in higher temperatures and increased heat-related illnesses. The study suggests vast potential for enhancing urban cooling through green spaces, particularly in slums where the risk of climate change-induced deaths is highest.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 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.

The risk of global water scarcity is greater when accounting for the origin of rain.

A new study reveals that risks to global water security are significantly higher when considering the environmental conditions and governability of areas where moisture evaporates before falling as rain. This approach identifies regions with high water scarcity risk, including those dependent on neighboring countries for upwind moisture.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Water·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 2, 2024

New study sheds light on the hidden world of solvation shells

Researchers develop novel method to probe solvation shells using resonant intermolecular Coulombic decay, revealing key findings on ion pair formation and electron binding energies. This breakthrough provides new insights into the complex nature of solvation shells, with implications for various scientific fields.

SourceFritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2024

Breaking boundaries: PAM-less genome editing in soybean

A new PAM-less genome editing system using CRISPR-SpRY has been developed to overcome limitations in traditional genome editing for soybean breeding. The SpRY protein-based system successfully targets key agronomic genes, achieving precise mutations and enhancing editing accuracy.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 2, 2024

Developing a comprehensive metric for worker well-being

The Abundance Index for Workers (AIW) measures psychological wealth and well-being in the workplace. The study validates its effectiveness using data from the Tsukuba Salutogenic Occupational Cohort Study, demonstrating a more accurate assessment of worker well-being.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEnvironmental Health and Preventive Medicine·DateSep 2, 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.

Thin film ferroelectric photonic-electronic memory

Researchers developed a non-volatile photonic-electronic memory chip using micro-ring resonator and integrated thin-film ferroelectric material, overcoming dual-mode operation challenge. The chip features low operating voltage, large memory window, high endurance, and multi-level storage capability.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 2, 2024

Depressed adolescents twice as likely to vape

A study of over 5,000 Australian high school students found that those with severe depressive symptoms were more than twice as likely to have tried e-cigarettes. The research highlights the urgent need for effective mental health support to prevent vaping onset during early adolescence.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAustralian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 2, 2024

Fruit of knowledge: Genomic study illuminates mango's heritage and future

A new study maps mango's genetic makeup, revealing its genomic diversity and population structure that influence key agronomic traits. The research identifies candidate genes linked to flowering, fruit weight, and aroma compounds, essential for advancing mango breeding through genomic-assisted methods.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 2, 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.

False-positive mammograms discourage some women from future screenings

A new study by UC Davis found that false-positive results can lead to women avoiding future screening, with Asian and Hispanic/Latinx women being the least likely to return. The research highlights the importance of continued screening for these groups despite a history of benign breast disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 2, 2024

Aston University researcher uses light to develop quicker, cheaper and less painful technique to detect prostate cancer

Aston University researcher has developed a new method of analysing crystals in dehydrated blood samples using polarisation-based image reconstruction technique. The technique showed a 90% accuracy rate for early diagnosis and classification of cancer, making it less traumatic and risky for patients.

SourceAston University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024

Green gold: poplar's genetic makeover for saline soils

A team of researchers has discovered a novel microRNA, miR319a, that significantly enhances poplar trees' ability to withstand salt stress. This breakthrough sheds light on how trees maintain essential ion balance under salty conditions and presents new avenues for improving salt tolerance in woody plants.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 2, 2024

New 'chiral vortex' of light reveals molecular mirror images

A new structure of light has been discovered that can accurately measure chirality in molecules, a property of asymmetry important in physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine. This 'chiral vortex' provides an accurate and robust form of measurement, allowing for the detection of chiral biomarkers.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 2, 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.

Mainstay ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation shows substantial benefit over sham procedure

A catheter ablation procedure for atrial fibrillation has been shown to significantly reduce AF burden and improve quality of life compared to a sham procedure. The study found that patients treated with the actual ablation had an average reduction in AF burden of 60% at 6 months, while those receiving the sham procedure saw a smaller ...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalJAMA·DateSep 2, 2024

Innovative copper-based catalyst paves the way for sustainable ammonia production

Researchers at Tohoku University's AIMR have developed a copper-based catalyst for nitrate reduction to ammonia, achieving a significant enhancement in yield and Faraday efficiency. The catalyst's performance is attributed to structural and phase changes during the electrochemical reduction process.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 2, 2024

New study links melatonin secretion to ADHD symptoms in children

A groundbreaking study published in Psychiatry Research Communications reveals a critical link between melatonin secretion and the severity of ADHD symptoms in children. Genetic variations affecting melatonin production may play a significant role in the development and exacerbation of ADHD symptoms.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPsychiatry Research Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 2, 2024

Discovery of glass-forming liquid electrolytes as a new liquid category

Researchers from Niigata University have developed novel glass-forming liquid electrolytes with high ion conduction and efficiency. These materials offer unique advantages in terms of efficiency and application-specific adaptability, paving the way for next-generation energy storage devices.

SourceNiigata University·JournalFaraday Discussions·DateSep 2, 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.

Quantum entanglement between electronic and motional states in cold-atom quantum simulator

The researchers have successfully demonstrated quantum entanglement between electronic and motional states in their ultrafast quantum simulator, generating a new quantum simulation method including repulsive force between particles. This achievement is expected to improve the fidelity of two-qubit gate operations and realize socially u...

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 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.

The world’s fastest single-shot 2D imaging technique films ultrafast dynamics in flames

Researchers develop femtosecond laser sheet-compressed ultrafast photography (fsLS-CUP) to capture ultrafast dynamics in flames. The technique enables simultaneous imaging of soot particles and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), revealing their formation and growth in flames.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateSep 2, 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.

Warning labels from fact checkers work — even if you don’t trust them

New research shows that social media fact-checking warning labels are broadly effective at reducing belief in and spreading of misinformation, even among those who distrust fact-checkers. The study found that warning labels can significantly reduce false headlines' accuracy ratings and willingness to share, regardless of participants' ...

SourceMIT Sloan School of Management·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024

From wild relatives to super tomatoes: Unearthing new genetic potential

A new eight-way tomato Multiparental advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) population has been developed to unlock diverse traits from wild tomato species. The population combines diverse alleles from wild and weedy tomatoes, revealing 6,488 high-quality SNPs and associations with traits such as fruit size and pigmentation.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 2, 2024

Finerenone improves outcomes in a common type of heart failure

The FINEARTS-HF trial demonstrates finerenone's benefits in reducing worsening heart failure events and mortality in patients with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction. Finerenone significantly reduces total worsening HF events compared to placebo, but shows non-significant reductions in cardiovascular death.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 2, 2024

AI study teases treatment revolution for heart failure patients

A University of Dundee study has used machine learning to analyze health records of heart failure patients and identify alternative treatment plans that could improve their welfare. The pilot project aims to tailor treatment for each patient, ensuring they receive optimized care with the potential to improve quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Dundee·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 2, 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.

New fuel cell catalyst enhances longevity and reduces cost for Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)

Researchers at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology developed a new fuel cell catalyst made from platinum and magnesium, significantly improving efficiency and longevity. The catalyst surpasses US Department of Energy's 2025 performance targets, demonstrating its high efficiency and long-term stability.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 2, 2024

Massively parallel algorithms for fully dynamic all-pairs shortest paths

Researchers have developed a new algorithm for fully dynamic all-pairs shortest paths in the Massively Parallel Computation model, achieving lower round complexity and memory usage compared to existing static algorithms. The proposed algorithm combines graph and algebraic methods to reduce computational overhead.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2024