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Science News Archive September 2024 - Page 9


Page 9 of 41

Advancing synthetic Ephedra-type alkaloids with a two-step enzymatic approach

Researchers from Xiamen University created a novel two-step enzymatic approach to synthesize diverse Ephedra-type alkaloids with improved yields and introduced new N-group modifications. They successfully tested various enzymes and imine reductases to optimize conversion rates and generate novel synthetic Ephedra-type alkaloids.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

Measure of body roundness may help to predict risk of cardiovascular disease

A new study found that a high body roundness index over 6 years was associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease in adults older than 45. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, suggested that BRI may be a valuable predictor of cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 25, 2024

Transferrin receptor-targeted immunostimulant for photodynamic immunotherapy against metastatic tumors through β-catenin/CREB interruption

A new transferrin receptor-targeted immunostimulant is fabricated for photodynamic immunotherapy against metastatic tumors by interrupting the β-catenin signal pathway. The recognition of PTI and TfR promotes drug delivery into tumor cells, inducing an immunogenic cell death with the release of tumor-associated antigens.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateSep 25, 2024

New study reveals impact of chatGPT on public knowledge sharing

A recent study published in PNAS Nexus found that widespread adoption of large language models like ChatGPT led to a significant decline in user activity on Stack Overflow. The study highlights the impact of ChatGPT on public knowledge sharing and its implications for AI's future.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 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.

Nanostructures in the deep ocean floor hint at life’s origin

Researchers found inorganic nanostructures surrounding deep-ocean hydrothermal vents that mimic molecules essential for life. These structures can harness energy and convert it into electricity, sparking interest in applying this technology to industrial blue-energy harvesting.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2024

A viral close-up of HTLV-1

Researchers at ISTA have decoded the structure of HTLV-1 using Cryo-Electron Tomography, revealing a distinct viral lattice that differs from other retroviruses. This discovery could pave the way for novel treatment approaches to combat HTLV-1 infections, which affect 5-10 million people worldwide.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 25, 2024

Bronze age lactobacillus genomes clarify kefir history

A recent study reconstructed ancient Lactobacillus genomes from Bronze Age kefir cheese, providing new insights into the evolution of dairy fermentation practices and human-fermentative microbial interactions. The findings suggest that ancient peoples learned kefir production techniques from Eurasian steppe populations.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell·DateSep 25, 2024

Researchers harness AI to repurpose existing drugs for treatment of rare diseases

A new AI tool identified drug candidates for over 17,000 diseases, including conditions without treatments, and predicted potential side effects. The model was trained on a broader dataset than current models, enabling it to make more accurate predictions and offering a faster and more cost-effective way to develop therapies.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 25, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Manganese cathodes could boost lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new process for creating manganese-based cathodes that can store and deliver energy efficiently. This breakthrough could lead to more sustainable and cost-effective lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 25, 2024

Novel regulator of glucose transport in adipose tissue discovered

Scientists identify PICALM as a key player in regulating glucose homeostasis and insulin signaling in adipocytes. Reduced expression of PICALM improves insulin sensitivity and glucose transport, holding promise for new therapeutic approaches for type 2 diabetes and obesity.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalMolecular Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 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.

Are gender and sexual identity linked to brain health?

A study published in Neurology found an association between LGBTQ+ status and increased risk of adverse brain health outcomes. Researchers analyzed data from over 393,000 people and found that LGBTQ+ individuals had a higher risk of dementia and late-life depression compared to cisgender and straight individuals.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 25, 2024

Protein behavior can be predicted with simple maths

Researchers discovered that mutations affect protein stability following surprisingly simple rules, making it possible to predict protein behavior without complex models. This breakthrough has significant implications for accelerating new treatments and designing more stable proteins with industrial applications.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

Brain development: extracellular vesicles facilitate cellular communication

Research led by Silvia Cappello reveals that extracellular vesicles play a crucial role in the development of the brain, facilitating communication between different cell types. The study found that these vesicles can transport specific molecular signals to the nucleus of recipient cells, inducing rapid transcriptional changes and infl...

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

Signs of developing asthma are evident in the first year of life

A study analyzing health data from 780 infants found that early signs of asthma can be predicted by observing dynamic symptom development during the first year. Genetic predisposition, air pollution, and infections were key risk factors contributing to the child's respiratory system adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateSep 25, 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.

Noninvasive method to monitor postprandial cardiovascular health

Researchers developed a noninvasive method to monitor postprandial cardiovascular health using spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI). The technique effectively tracks diet-induced changes in cardiovascular physiology, revealing significant differences in tissue responses after consuming high-fat and low-fat meals.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalBiophotonics Discovery·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2024

Citizen scientists help discover microplastics along the entire German coastline

A new study led by the Alfred Wegener Institute has analyzed 2.2 tons of sand from 71 beaches along the German coast, revealing that 52 beaches were contaminated with plastic. The researchers found an average of four plastic particles per square meter, but noted that microplastic pollution varies greatly from place to place.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2024

Single-dose gene therapy is potentially life-changing for adults with hemophilia B

A single-dose gene therapy has been shown to significantly reduce bleeding episodes in adults with hemophilia B, with an average reduction of 71% compared to standard treatment. The therapy, which enables the liver to produce clotting factor IX, has been FDA-approved for use in patients with this genetic disorder.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 25, 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.

Beyond the stigma: Strategies for maximizing recombinant protein production in tobacco plants

Tobacco plant molecular farming offers advantages over traditional approaches, including lower costs and high-yield production. A comprehensive study addresses the challenge of subcellular localization for recombinant protein production, focusing on ER, vacuole, chloroplast, and apoplast targeting strategies.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 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.

Obstructive sleep apnea may increase risk of abdominal aortic aneurysms

Researchers found that obstructive sleep apnea increases the susceptibility of mice to develop abdominal aortic aneurysms, likely caused by intermittent hypoxia triggering enzyme activity that degrades the extracellular matrix. This degradation weakens the aorta, making it more prone to rupture.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

Study reveals sources of opioid poisoning among children

A study by Rutgers Health researchers found that unintentional opioid exposure in children primarily occurs at home, with over 91% of cases involving a child's home. The study highlights the need for proper medication storage and disposal, especially involving grandparents' medications and pet medications.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2024

UTA scientist developing drinking water evaluation tool

A researcher at UTA is developing a tracer tool to help water suppliers ensure safe and reliable drinking water during extreme weather events. The tool will enable better management of drinking water in Tarrant County, addressing concerns about water flow and distribution.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 25, 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.

Purdue researchers acquire and analyze data through AI network that predicts maize yield

Purdue researchers have developed an AI model that can predict maize yield using remote sensing data and environmental factors. The model, which combines hyperspectral cameras, LiDAR instruments, and genetic markers, can categorize healthy and stressed crops before farmers or scouts can spot a difference.

SourcePurdue University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

New insights into hot carrier solar cells: Increasing generation and extraction

Researchers have made breakthroughs in hot carrier solar cells by studying electron tunneling and collection, increasing generation and extraction. The study revealed that a new system comprising AlGaAs and GaAs materials can harness valley photovoltaics and realize solar cells beyond the current single bandgap limits.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 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.

Study: Good nutrition boosts honey bee resilience against pesticides, viruses

Researchers found that good nutrition enhances honey bee resilience against pesticide exposure and viral infections. Bees exposed to viruses experienced higher mortality on artificial pollen diets but fewer deaths when fed natural pollen and exposed to pesticides.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

14.3 million Americans are caregivers to military members or veterans

The study highlights the challenges faced by military/veteran caregivers, including high rates of depression, financial strain, and emotional burden. Many caregivers, particularly those caring for children or individuals under 60, experience unmet needs and feel isolated in their caregiving network.

SourceRAND Corporation·TypeSurvey·DateSep 24, 2024

Nursing shortages can be deadly

A new study found that nursing shortages result in longer hospital stays and worse patient outcomes, including higher mortality rates. Understaffing by registered nurses and nurse assistants is associated with increased risks of adverse events, such as readmissions, deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and pressure ulcers.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBJS·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 24, 2024

Fruit-only diet improves bats’ immune response to viruses

Researchers found that fruit bats generate a more diverse antibody response than mice but have a weaker overall response. However, bats fed a fruit-only diet had a stronger antibody response compared to those on a protein-supplemented diet.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Atmospheric methane increase during pandemic due primarily to wetland flooding

A new analysis reveals that increased inundation and water storage in wetlands drove the record surge in atmospheric methane emissions from 2020 to 2022. Wetland microbes produce methane as they metabolize organic matter anaerobically, leading to a significant increase in release to the atmosphere.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 24, 2024

Review shows bird flu control strategies ‘not working’

A review highlights gaps in data collection and testing mechanisms for H5N1 influenza transmission between cows and humans, posing risks of silent spread through farm worker barracks or developing countries. The authors emphasize the need for new control strategies, including vaccination, to mitigate the potential for a human pandemic

SourceThe Pirbright Institute·JournalNature·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 24, 2024

Copper-based nanocapsules enhance radiotherapy effectiveness

Researchers have discovered copper-based nanocapsules that can trigger cuproptosis in tumor cells, overcoming acquired radiation resistance and improving the effectiveness of radiotherapy. The nanocapsules also activate an abscopal effect, inducing immunogenic cell death and stimulating antitumor immunity.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 24, 2024

UNDER EMBARGO: Mount Sinai study identifies link between prediabetes during adolescence and young adulthood with the likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes

A Mount Sinai study links prediabetes among young people with a higher likelihood of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. The findings highlight the need for clear clinical guidance on screening and counseling youth with elevated blood glucose levels.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 24, 2024

Extinct volcanoes a ‘rich’ source of rare earth elements

Researchers have discovered that iron-rich extinct volcanoes are up to 100 times more efficient at concentrating rare earth metals than active volcanoes. This finding suggests that these ancient volcanoes could be studied for their potential to contain rare earth elements, which are crucial for renewable energy technologies.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·TypeObservational study·DateSep 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.

Planting seeds for safer farming

Researchers aim to reduce PFAS contamination risk in agriculture by developing monitoring tools and strategies for remediation. The study focuses on comprehensively understanding PFAS uptake and bioaccumulation in plants, advancing strategies for PFAS remediation in biosolid/soil.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateSep 24, 2024

Voice-activated cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia

A randomized clinical trial found that a voice-activated cognitive behavioral therapy program improved insomnia symptoms in breast cancer survivors. The intervention, delivered in an in-home setting, demonstrated efficacy in reducing sleep disturbances and enhancing overall quality of life.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 24, 2024

New electrocatalytic strategy enables ultrafast-charging lithium-ion battery

Researchers developed a novel electrocatalytic strategy for solid-state lithium-ion batteries, overcoming the limitation of liquid-solid interfaces. The new approach enhances reaction dynamics and creates highly active sites, leading to impressive ultrafast-charging performance.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 24, 2024

AI chatbots rival doctors in accuracy for back pain advice, study finds

A new study reveals that AI chatbots like ChatGPT can offer accurate advice on low back pain, including recommended treatments and exercise. However, the systems had limitations, particularly with complex responses and risk factors.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 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.

Lengthened consonants mark the beginning of words

A new study found that consonant lengthening is a universal trait in many languages, helping listeners identify word boundaries. The researchers analyzed data from the DoReCo corpus and found evidence of lengthening in 43 out of 51 languages.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateSep 24, 2024

Histotripsy liver tumor trial successful, early clinical adoption recommended

The #HOPE4LIVER trial demonstrated the safety and efficacy of histotripsy as a treatment for primary and metastatic liver tumors, achieving a 95% technical success rate. The procedure's non-invasive nature and ability to spare critical vessels and bile ducts offer promising alternatives to traditional treatments.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalRadiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 24, 2024

New catalyst developed for sustainable propylene production from biomass

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new catalyst that efficiently converts a derivative of glycerol into bio-based propylene, contributing to sustainable chemical production. The catalyst enables the selective reduction of allyl alcohol to propylene with high efficiency using renewable energy sources.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 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.

Heterostructure VO2@VS2 tailored by one-step hydrothermal synthesis for stable and highly efficient Zn-ion storage

Researchers from Qingdao University synthesized VO2@VS2 hollow nanospheres via one-step hydrothermal synthesis, creating a highly efficient cathode material for zinc-ion batteries. The heterostructure enhances battery performance with a reversible capacity of 468 mAh g−1 and 85% retention after 1000 cycles.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 24, 2024

New species of flatworm invading the United States

A new species of flatworm, Amaga pseudobama, has been discovered in the southern United States and is already present in several states. The species resembles Obama nungara, a European invasive species, making it difficult to distinguish from citizen science data.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateSep 24, 2024

How emotion boosts memory for context

Researchers found that emotion enhances ability to retrieve contextual details, contrary to prevailing view that emotion impairs memory. The study's findings have practical implications for controlling and capitalizing on emotions to remember better.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·DateSep 24, 2024

Lasers provide boon for manufacturing of ceremonial Thai umbrellas

Thailand's ancient tiered umbrella symbols are crafted using high-powered lasers, preserving intricate beauty in a matter of days. Researchers provide technical details for anyone with necessary equipment to make their own, aiming to conserve arts and culture.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Laser Applications·DateSep 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.

Fossils from the Adriatic Sea show a recent and worrying reversal of fortunes

The study found a recent reversal of fortunes in the Adriatic Sea, with populations of marine predators and their prey plummeting and being replaced by a single species. The researchers used seafloor environments to determine interactions between species, showing a decline in biodiversity and excess nutrients.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 24, 2024

Nitrogen fertilizer for soybeans offers limited yield benefits, study says

Researchers found that nitrogen applications had a limited impact on soybean yields, with no consistent benefit from single applications. However, a single application at planting showed increased yields in certain conditions, particularly in soils with low organic matter.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateSep 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.

Prediabetes during adolescence and young adulthood linked with likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes

Research conducted at Columbia Mailman School of Public Health found a link between prediabetes among young people and adverse pregnancy outcomes later in life. The study, which included over 14,000 individuals aged 10-24 years, found that preconception prediabetes was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, hyperten...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 24, 2024