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Science News for September 6, 2024


Designing a normative neuroimaging library to support diagnosis of traumatic brain injury

A new library of healthy participants' neuroimaging data has been created to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The Normative Neuroimaging Library consists of data from approximately 1900 individuals, providing a comprehensive dataset for clinicians and researchers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 6, 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.

Unlocking the secrets of diamond: new insights into nitrogen-vacancy center formation

Researchers have demonstrated a novel method to increase the density and depth of nitrogen-vacancy centers in type-Ib diamonds through controlled temperature and orientation. This study advances our understanding of diamond materials and opens up new possibilities for cutting-edge scientific and technological applications.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

5 lessons to level up conservation successfully

A new study by Imperial College London identifies key trade-offs between effectiveness and scalability in conservation programs. The lessons highlight the importance of balancing program expansion with effective implementation, considering scale-dependent effects on conservation outcomes.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateSep 6, 2024

Hijacking the command center of the cell: nuclear parasites in deep-sea mussels

Researchers discovered a bacterial parasite that infects the nuclei of deep-sea mussels, reproducing to over 80,000 cells while keeping its host alive. The parasite produces proteins that suppress apoptosis, an 'arms race' with the host cell, and acquires nutrients from host components.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 6, 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.

Tracking depression

A team led by Weiying Lin created a molecular probe that selectively detects serotonin, a key player in depression. The study suggests that the ability of neurons to release serotonin is more critical than serotonin levels themselves.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

Quality assurance in histopathology laboratories

Histopathology laboratories implement Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) programs to minimize errors and ensure accurate test reports. The pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of the testing cycle are critical in minimizing errors and ensuring seamless diagnostic processes.

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Pathology·DateSep 6, 2024

Study suggests US droughts, rainy extremes becoming more severe

Researchers at Ohio State University found that US droughts in the Southwest and rainy extremes in the Northeast are becoming more frequent and severe. The study predicts bigger swings between wetter and drier periods in the mid-United States, straining water management efforts.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 6, 2024

Astrophysics: AI shines a new light on exoplanets

Researchers have developed a method using physics-informed neural networks to model the complex light scattering in exoplanet atmospheres. This breakthrough enables more accurate analysis of exoplanet atmospheres, particularly with regard to cloud influence and chemical composition.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 6, 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.

Natural probiotic discovered in UK newborns microbiomes

A new study has found a natural probiotic in the microbiomes of UK newborns, which could be used to develop personalized infant therapeutic probiotics. The researchers analyzed stool samples from 1,288 healthy infants and found that one of the pioneer bacteria was genetically adapted to utilize breast milk nutrients and block pathogens.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Microbiology·DateSep 6, 2024

In search of new microscopy tools to observe how cells function

Scientists at the University of Utah's Department of Chemistry developed a new contrast agent that allows for the simultaneous observation of cell structure and function in electron microscopy. The discovery could improve imaging tools used to study signaling in functioning cells and other molecular-scale processes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeObservational study·DateSep 6, 2024

Photonic topological phase transition achieved by material phase transition

A team of researchers from NTT Corporation and Tokyo Institute of Technology has successfully achieved photonic topological phase transition by material phase transition. This breakthrough demonstrates the possibility to change the photonic topological phase in a reconfigurable manner, paving the way for novel research fields and promi...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 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.

Cannabidiol demonstrated to alleviate symptoms of Leigh syndrome

Researchers at the UAB Institut de Neurociències found that daily cannabidiol administration extends lifespan and improves symptoms in animal models of Leigh syndrome. CBD also improves cellular function, neuropathology, and breathing abnormalities, with a promising treatment option for this severe disease.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

COVID-19 and rates of cancer diagnosis in the US

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a decrease in cancer diagnosis rates in the US, according to a new study. Despite improved trends in 2021, the rates remain lower than expected, exacerbating the existing deficit of diagnosed cases from 2020.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 6, 2024

Massive merger: study reveals evidence for origin of supermassive black hole at galaxy’s center

UNLV astrophysicists found evidence suggesting the supermassive black hole at the center of our Milky Way galaxy, Sgr A*, is likely the result of a past cosmic merger. The study utilized data from the Event Horizon Telescope's 2022 observation of Sgr A* to investigate various growth models and demonstrated that the misaligned spin prop...

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateSep 6, 2024

Study reveals new female-determining pathway in turtles

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals a new female-determining pathway in turtles, initiated by the transcription factor pSTAT3. Temperature-dependent sex determination in red-eared slider turtles is shown to result from antagonism between male and female signals.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 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.

Being able to see inside a flow battery

Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology, in collaboration with MIT and PSI, developed a new method to visualize the inner workings of redox flow batteries using neutron imaging. The technique provides extraordinary moving images that help understand the battery's performance and durability.

SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

Disparity in access to medications for opioid use disorder persist in criminal legal settings

A study found that only six states successfully delivered medications for opioid use disorder to at least 50% of people referred to treatment by the criminal legal system. This disparity leads to a high risk of overdose death among individuals leaving jails and prisons, highlighting the need for better access to effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 6, 2024

Solving the side effect problem of siRNA drugs for genetic disease treatment using formamide

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a method to chemically alter siRNAs, reducing off-target effects and improving the safety of siRNA drugs for genetic therapy. By modifying the seed region of siRNAs with formamide, they achieved suppression of off-target effects with higher efficiency than existing chemical modifications.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateSep 6, 2024

Altered blood markers detected in individuals with periodontitis

Researchers at Umeå University have identified unique inflammatory protein profiles in the blood of individuals with severe periodontitis, which is associated with lower levels of EGF and OLR-1 proteins. The study provides a promising lead for developing biomarkers and treatments for the disease.

SourceUmea University·JournalJournal of Dental Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 6, 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.

Galaxies are much much bigger than we thought

Researchers have observed the circumgalactic medium of a star-bursting galaxy 270 million light years away, revealing its vastness and influence on gas formation. The study provides new insights into galaxy evolution, how galaxies acquire gas, and where it goes.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 6, 2024

Detects cancer genes with ultra-high sensitivity!

A team of researchers from the Korea Institute of Materials Science has developed a technology that can detect cancer mutant genes in blood with an unprecedented level of sensitivity. The technology boasts a diagnostic accuracy of 96% for lung cancer patients and has the potential to revolutionize early cancer diagnosis and treatment. ...

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalSmall Science·DateSep 6, 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.

Researchers create a one-dimensional gas out of light

Physicists at the University of Bonn and Kaiserslautern-Landau created a one-dimensional gas out of light, allowing for the first time to test theoretical predictions about its transition into an exotic state of matter. The method used in the experiment could be used to examine quantum effects.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

nTIDE September 2024 Jobs Report: Gains in employment for people with disabilities appear to level off after reducing gaps with non-disabled workers

According to the nTIDE September 2024 Jobs Report, employment and labor force participation trends for people with disabilities have leveled off after several years of growth. This decline in employment is similar to the trend observed between 2016 and 2018. The employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities decreased from...

SourceKessler Foundation·DateSep 6, 2024

Cognitive behavioral therapy enhances brain circuits to relieve depression

A new study found that cognitive behavioral therapy can alter brain circuitry in adults with depression and obesity, leading to improved problem-solving skills and reduced symptoms. After just two months of therapy, patients showed adaptive changes in their brain circuits, which predicted long-term therapy success.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 6, 2024

Postdoc takes multipronged approach to muon detection

Debaditya Biswas combines different particle identification methods with machine learning to detect muons hidden in a sea of pions. He plans to simulate reactions and assess the viability of various techniques, including traditional PID, PSD, and machine learning, to optimize muon detection for future experiments.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateSep 6, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Global experts help nanomedicines DELIVER on healthcare promise

A new framework from a global team of scientists aims to overcome translational hurdles in nanomedicine development. The DELIVER guidelines provide early-stage recommendations for maximizing clinical translation and enabling the successful development of new nanomedicine treatments.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 6, 2024

‘Some pterosaurs would flap, others would soar’ – new study further confirms the flight capability of these giants of the skies

Scientists have discovered that some pterosaurs flew by flapping their wings while others soared like vultures. The new findings were made possible by the discovery of remarkably well-preserved fossils in Jordan, including a species with a five-meter wingspan and unique internal structures.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 6, 2024

How context-specific factors control gene activity

Researchers discovered 'context-only' TFs that boost enhancer activity and contribute to regulatory factor clusters, which regulate genes effectively. This finding provides a new understanding of cooperative environments that TFs create to regulate genes in health and disease.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 6, 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.

Cancer diagnoses still lagging due to COVID-19

A new University of Kentucky study reveals that cancer diagnosis rates in the US dropped in 2021, exacerbating the pandemic-induced backlog of undiagnosed cases. The findings highlight the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on cancer care in the country.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 6, 2024

New chickadee research finds cognitive skills impact lifespan

A study on mountain chickadees reveals that enhanced spatial learning and memory abilities are linked to longer lifespan. Birds with better cognitive skills can successfully retrieve cached food, allowing them to survive harsh environments and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2024

Falling for financial scams? It may signal early Alzheimer’s disease

A new study reveals a significant correlation between entorhinal cortex thickness and financial exploitation vulnerability, a potential early indicator of Alzheimer's disease. The research suggests that assessing financial awareness could help identify cognitive changes in older adults.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 6, 2024

‘Ice bucket challenge’ reveals that bacteria can anticipate the seasons

Researchers found that bacteria can anticipate the arrival of new seasons by using their internal 24-hour clocks. Samples exposed to short days showed significantly higher survival rates when plunged into ice, indicating that photoperiodism is critical in preparing bacteria for longer-term environmental changes.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 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.

How microbial communities emerge

Researchers at Swansea University have created a new framework to understand how complex bacterial communities form associations with multicellular hosts. The study aims to provide a holistic picture of microbiome assembly and its importance in the persistence of both host and microbiome.

SourceSwansea University·JournalTrends in Microbiology·DateSep 6, 2024

One antibody to neutralize them all?

Researchers developed a monoclonal antibody called SC27 that targets multiple parts of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, including conserved sections. The antibody shows promise against various COVID-19 variants and related coronaviruses, potentially benefiting immunocompromised patients

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateSep 6, 2024

High sensitivity high throughput biosensor measures metabolite levels that indicate disease

Researchers at Kanazawa University developed a biosensor that improves sensitivity to 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA) in urine by orders of magnitude, allowing for earlier detection of diseases such as cancer and liver disease. The biosensor has high throughput capabilities, making it suitable for screening potential NNMT inhibitors.

SourceNano Life Science Institute (NanoLSI), Kanazawa University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 6, 2024

Atoms on the edge

Researchers at MIT have directly observed edge states in a cloud of ultracold atoms, capturing images of atoms flowing along a boundary without resistance. This discovery could enable super-efficient energy transmission and data transfer in materials.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 6, 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.

Jellyfish under attack!

Scientists discovered a new parasitic relationship where sea anemones infect jellyfish through comb jellies, breaking evolutionary norms. This finding highlights the adaptability of parasites in rapidly changing marine ecosystems under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

Mathematical proof: Five satellites needed for precise navigation

Researchers have created a mathematical proof that exactly five satellites are required to uniquely determine the position of a receiver in almost all cases. This breakthrough resolves a long-standing conjecture and provides insights into the accuracy of GPS navigation, particularly with fewer than four satellites in view.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvances in Applied Mathematics·DateSep 6, 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.

Just how dangerous is Great Salt Lake dust? New research looks for clues

Researchers have found elevated 'oxidative potential' in sediments from the Great Salt Lake's playa, indicating a greater risk to human health. The sediments contain high levels of toxic metals, including lead, manganese, and arsenic, which can cause respiratory issues like asthma.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAtmospheric Environment·TypeObservational study·DateSep 6, 2024

Age-related changes in male fibroblasts increase treatment-resistant melanoma

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that age-related changes in male fibroblasts contribute to more aggressive and treatment-resistant melanomas. The study discovered that male fibroblasts accumulate reactive oxygen species and produce higher levels of BMP2, leading to increased DNA damage and resistance to targeted therapies.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateSep 6, 2024

Powerful quantum error correction with a beautiful geometry

A new quantum error correction approach called 'many-hypercube codes' has been proposed to overcome scalability issues in conventional methods. This innovative approach allows for high-performance fault-tolerant quantum computing by enabling logical gates to be run in parallel, similar to classical computers.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 6, 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.

Artificial lymphoid organs could help predict efficacy of booster vaccines

Researchers developed artificial lymphoid organ-chips to recreate human immune system's response to booster vaccines. The technology could potentially be used to evaluate the likely effectiveness of new protein and mRNA-based booster vaccines for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2024

Lack of workplace support after medication errors can worsen outcomes among healthcare professionals

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that inadequate organisational support after medication errors increases turnover intentions and absenteeism among healthcare professionals. The study highlights the need for cultivating a more supportive work environment to mitigate negative work-related outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·TypeSurvey·DateSep 6, 2024

Low-impact yoga and exercise found to help older women manage urinary incontinence

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that low-impact yoga programs can significantly reduce episodes of urinary incontinence in older women, with benefits comparable to those of medications. The study also showed that stretching and strengthening exercises had similar effects.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 6, 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.

Crystallized alternative DNA structure sheds light on insulin and diabetes

A UCL-led research team has crystallized the first alternative DNA structure from the insulin gene, revealing its shape and structure. The discovery suggests that different variants in the insulin gene can form different DNA structures, which could affect insulin function and potentially play a role in diabetes development.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2024

AI helps distinguish dark matter from cosmic noise

A deep-learning algorithm developed by astronomer David Harvey can untangle the complex signals of self-interacting dark matter and AGN feedback in galaxy cluster images. The Inception model achieved an accuracy of 80% under ideal conditions, showcasing its potential for analyzing vast amounts of space data.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 6, 2024

Elevating analysis of genomic data with breakthrough mathematical technique

A new method, scAMF, reduces noise in single-cell RNA sequencing data while preserving crucial biological information. This enables more accurate cell type characterization and clustering. The framework also lays the foundation for constructing high-resolution cell atlases.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2024

Integrating MRI and OCT for new insights into brain microstructure

The study compares nerve fiber orientation captured with specialized MRI and OCT approaches, laying groundwork for combining these imaging techniques. The findings show strong potential for PS-OCT to validate dMRI data, providing valuable insights about the microstructural organization of nerve fibers.

SourceOptica·DateSep 6, 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.

Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts: Advancing Research in Biomaterials and Bioenergy Innovation

The Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts is a leading open access journal fostering transformative research on bioresource conversion into biomaterials, biochemicals, and bioenergy. The journal's eight thematic areas focus on cutting-edge topics in sustainable energy and materials science.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·DateSep 6, 2024

One-way street for sound waves

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich created a method to suppress sound wave propagation in the backward direction without deteriorating forward propagation. They achieved this using self-oscillations and a circulator, which allows sound waves to travel only one way.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2024