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Science News for October 20, 2022


Deep learning with light

Researchers at MIT have developed a new method that uses optics to accelerate machine-learning computations on low-power devices. By encoding model components onto light waves, data can be transmitted rapidly and computations performed quickly, leading to over a hundredfold improvement in energy efficiency.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022

Calcium content determines the peak intensity ratio due to iron ions at Mössbauer spectra in pyroxene

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University used Mössbauer spectroscopy to study monoclinic pyroxenes, a type of calcium-rich mineral. They found that the tensor determining iron ion intensity ratios is independent of iron content but dependent on calcium content.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Mineralogical and Petrological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Study finds school choice not offered equitably to low-income, less-educated families, who are forced to compromise more

A new study from the University of Kansas finds that parents from marginalized backgrounds and lower educational attainment make more compromises on school features, resulting in lower satisfaction. The research suggests that these parents are not lacking in understanding what would be best for their children, but rather face constrain...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·TypeSurvey·DateOct 20, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Shanghai Polytechnic University researchers develop new efficient phase change microcapsules for storing solar energy

Researchers from Shanghai Polytechnic University developed new efficient phase change microcapsules for storing solar energy, demonstrating superior photothermal conversion and thermal conductivity. The study found that the novel PCM microcapsule shells showed a 54.9% photothermal conversion efficiency, significantly higher than non-do...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Single stranded suture threads could prevent pregnancy infection complications, C-STICH trial finds

The C-STICH clinical trial found that single-stranded suture threads may improve outcomes for mothers at risk of preterm birth by reducing the risk of infection. Researchers tested whether using single stranded sutures could decrease miscarriage or stillbirth rates due to an increased risk of infection.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 20, 2022

New paper highlights the importance of locational strategy in business

A new paper published in Global Strategy Journal argues that understanding locational strategy can give businesses an edge over competition. Locational decisions affect branding, human resources, and research and development. The study authors refine their approach to the topic by merging corporate strategy with economic geography.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeCase study·DateOct 20, 2022

Infants who die unexpectedly in the first week might have different risk factors than those who die in the first month

A Rutgers study found that infants who died unexpectedly in the first week of life had different risk factors compared to those who died later. The study analyzed data from 2000 to 2015 and found that mothers of infants dying in the first week showed less evidence of common risk factors such as smoking during pregnancy.

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 20, 2022

In the transition to high school, eighth graders who move to a new building were less delinquent than peers who stayed in the same setting

A study found that students who moved to a new school location reported significantly less delinquency after the shift, with fewer delinquent friends and less unstructured socializing. The transition to a new academic setting might reduce levels of juvenile delinquency in the long run.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

World’s largest no-fishing zone benefits fish and fishermen

A large marine protected area in Hawaiʻi has led to the recovery of tunas and other large fish species. The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument increased catch rates by 54% for yellowfin tuna, benefiting both the environment and the global tuna fishing industry.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022

Sexual assault related ER visits increase more than tenfold

A new study suggests that emergency departments saw 15 times more sexual assault-related visits in the past decade, with total hospital charges reaching $233 million in 2019. The study highlights disparities in health needs and admissions, with patients from lower incomes and government insurance plans being disproportionately admitted...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Endangered birds can be protected from predators with chemical camouflage

A study by the University of Turku found that red foxes can be deceived into not eating bird eggs with chemical camouflage, while raccoon dogs showed less effectiveness. The methods could provide an alternative to hunting and help protect vulnerable prey species.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Secrets of Namibia’s fairy circles demystified: plants self-organize

Researchers from University of Göttingen found that plant water stress, not termites, causes Namibia's fairy circles. The grasses within the circles died immediately after rainfall due to strong depletion of water, while surrounding grasses thrived.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPerspectives in Plant Ecology Evolution and Systematics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Looking to move to a galaxy far, far away? Innovative system evaluates habitability of distant planets

A new system classifies atmospheres of distant planets to identify those suitable for future human habitation, without physically visiting them. The research study found that planet TRAPPIST-1e has a significantly more sensitive atmosphere than Earth, which could lead to extreme climate changes.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 20, 2022

Light-analyzing ‘lab on a chip’ opens door to widespread use of portable spectrometers

Scientists have developed a compact, AI-powered spectrometer that can measure light at different wavelengths, enabling new applications in fields like environmental monitoring, medicine, and astronomy. The device is 100% electrically controllable regarding the colors of light it absorbs, making it scalable for widespread usability.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Polynesian study yields new clues to genetic causes of high cholesterol

A genetic variant associated with low levels of HDL 'good' cholesterol and high triglycerides has been identified in Polynesian people. This discovery provides new insights into the genetic causes of high cholesterol and may lead to the development of more effective treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHuman Genetics and Genomics Advances·DateOct 20, 2022

Keeping electricity affordable on wireless charging highways

A new study from Cornell University proposes an efficient bidding strategy for wireless charging roads to minimize energy costs. By predicting real-time electricity loads, the algorithm can forecast prices and availability, reducing the energy cost for operators while alleviating pressure on power grids.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied Energy·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Study proposes new parameters for diagnosis of sarcopenia

Researchers suggest new criteria for diagnosing sarcopenia, a syndrome characterized by loss of muscle mass and force, with lower cutoff points leading to improved prediction of mortality risk. The study found that raising handgrip strength thresholds can detect the onset of sarcopenia earlier and more accurately.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAge and Ageing·DateOct 20, 2022

Got junk food on the brain? These cells may be to blame

A team of researchers has identified specific neurons in the amygdala that drive mice to eat fatty or sugary foods, even when not hungry. Switching off these neurons reduced overeating and protected against obesity, while also boosting physical activity and improving metabolic health.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 20, 2022

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers design AI-based model that predicts extreme wildfire danger

Researchers developed an AI-based model that combines artificial intelligence and weather forecast models to predict extreme wildfire danger with high accuracy. The new method can produce forecasts of extreme fire danger out to one week at finer scales (4km x 4km resolution), increasing its utility for fire suppression and management.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 20, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Smartphone data can help create global vegetation maps

Researchers linked TRY plant trait data to iNaturalist's vast dataset, creating more accurate global maps of plant traits. The new maps showed significant improvement over previous extrapolated products.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 20, 2022

Ranger numbers and protected area workforce must increase fivefold to effectively safeguard 30% of the planet’s wild lands by 2030

The global ranger workforce is insufficient to manage current protected areas, with only 286,000 rangers needed for 20 million square kilometers. Increasing the workforce five-fold is necessary to meet the 30% conservation goal by 2030.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

THE LANCET CHILD & ADOL. HEALTH: Study suggests discontinuation of gender-affirming hormones in those who start treatment as adolescents is rare

A study of over 700 adolescents who underwent puberty suppression and then started gender-affirming hormone treatment found that 98% continued use. The findings contradict recent concerns about regret and support the long-term benefits of hormone therapy for young people with gender dysphoria.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Potential therapy derived from a banana protein works against SARS-CoV-2

A banana protein-derived therapy called H84T-BanLec has been shown to be effective against all known strains of the flu and all human-infecting coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The therapy works by binding to high-mannose glycans on the surface of viruses but rarely found on normal human cells.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateOct 20, 2022

Stem cell study reveals how neurons from PTSD patients react to stress

A new stem cell study provides insight into how neurons from individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) respond to stress hormones. The research found that these cells are hypersensitive to the stress hormone hydrocortisone, which could help explain why some people develop PTSD after trauma exposure.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Why it is more difficult to be poor in some states than others

A new study suggests that state policies play a pivotal role in poverty levels, with some states having much more success than others in minimizing the risks associated with poverty. The study found that states with high penalties for unemployment and single motherhood tend to have higher poverty rates.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSociological Quarterly·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 20, 2022

The early evolution of successful twig mimicry

Researchers analyzed fossil records of three Mesozoic stick insect groups, revealing a trend towards slender body shapes and elongated mesothorax and metathorax. This adaptation likely aided the diversification of twig mimicry in response to emerging flowering plants.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateOct 20, 2022

UTA study: Brain evolution is linked to competition

Trinidadian killifish exhibit larger brain size in high-competition environments, increasing their ability to forage and survive. The study provides experimental evidence that brain size is an adaptive trait in dense populations.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 20, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Researchers call for action to stop exploitation of Antarctic waters

The Southern Ocean's ecosystem is facing major stressors from climate change, including melting sea ice and ocean acidification. Overfishing of species such as toothfish and krill is predicted to exacerbate environmental impacts on the entire ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 20, 2022

Carboniferous cutinite-rich coals from the Hequ area, China

These coals exhibit a papery, sheet-like nature when weathered, dominated by ribbon-like cutinites. Researchers found abundant n-alkanes, hopanes, and other organic compounds indicating pteridophytes as the main plant source.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateOct 20, 2022

Dark personality traits make people susceptible to fake news

A study found that individuals with dark personality traits, such as narcissism and psychopathy, are more susceptible to fake news. Epistemic beliefs, which prioritize personal interests over evidence-based information, play a significant role in this susceptibility.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Systemic gender barriers mean going it alone may not be the answer for all new women entrepreneurs in Canada

A new study from the University of Waterloo and Statistics Canada finds that inexperienced Canadian women entrepreneurs see more success when partnering with experienced men than women or going solo. The research highlights significant barriers faced by women in business, including negative stereotypes and limited access to financing.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalSmall Business Economics·DateOct 20, 2022

Study reveals disparities in childbearing by race and education level

A new study co-authored by Yale sociologist Emma Zang found that college-educated Black women give birth to fewer children than their white and Hispanic counterparts. The study also showed that Black and Hispanic women without college degrees have more births than similarly educated white women. Highly educated women tend to have fewer...

SourceYale University·JournalPopulation Studies·DateOct 20, 2022

First medical guideline recommends new prescription medications for weight loss, ranks the most effective drugs

The American Gastroenterological Association releases new guidelines recommending medications paired with lifestyle changes for adults struggling to lose weight. The guidelines highlight the importance of treating obesity as a biological disease, reducing health complications like diabetes and fatty liver.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·DateOct 20, 2022

Discovery of extracts from a lost astronomical catalogue

Researchers deciphered descriptions of four constellations from the Hipparchus Star Catalogue, refuting a long-held idea about its relation to Claudius Ptolemy's catalogue. The study confirms Hipparchus' data as accurate to the nearest degree, making it a significant advancement in reconstructing the ancient astronomical text.

SourceCNRS·JournalJournal for the History of Astronomy·DateOct 20, 2022

Nutrition education should be ‘on the menu’ of all healthcare professionals’ education - new research

A new curriculum aims to integrate nutrition education into medical students' general undergraduate training, highlighting its importance in patient care and disease management. The curriculum is designed to equip future doctors with knowledge and skills to consider nutrition's role in patient conditions.

SourceAston University·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

mRNA Vaccines Significantly Reduce Severity of Delta, Omicron COVID-19 Infections

A nationwide study found that mRNA vaccines significantly reduced the severity of Delta and Omicron COVID-19 infections in vaccinated individuals. The study, involving over 1,199 participants, also showed that breakthrough cases were more likely with Delta and Omicron variants but still limited by the vaccine's effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Fatty liver linked to survival in E. coli infection

Researchers found that male mice were three times more likely to survive E. coli infection due to sex-biased lipid metabolism, which may hold risks for males in today's high-calorie environment. The study identified a signaling pathway regulating lipids and growth hormone as potential therapeutic targets for fatty liver disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022

Virtual care associated with significant environmental and patient cost savings

A study by researchers at ICES, Lawson Health Research Institute, and Western University found that virtual care during the pandemic led to significant environmental and patient cost savings. Virtual visits represented approximately 0.2% of total annual carbon dioxide emissions in Ontario and estimated $63 million in patient cost savings.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

How old is California’s Yosemite Valley?

Researchers from UC Berkeley used rock analysis to determine that the valley's impressive depth was formed since 10 million years ago, with most of it carved in the past 5 million years. The study employed a novel technique called helium-4/helium-3 thermochronometry to reconstruct the temperature history of the rocks.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

How can flying insects and drones tell up from down?

Researchers developed a new principle for estimating gravity direction in flying insects and drones by combining optical flow with movement modeling. This allows them to determine the direction of gravity in most situations except when completely stationary, which destabilizes their flight.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Study: Stereotypes of middle-aged women as less ‘nice’ can hold them back at work

A new study reveals that middle-aged women are held back in their careers due to a perceived lack of 'niceness', with evaluations decreasing after the age of 40. The research, led by UC Berkeley's Jennifer Chatman, found that both men and women become more capable with age but only women are seen as less warm, leading to harsher judgme...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Chimpanzees synchronise their steps just like humans

Researchers observed chimpanzees exhibiting unintentional synchronisation in their steps when walking next to each other, suggesting a shared human trait. The study found that chimps showed inter-individual coordination in walking, with 79% of cases mirroring each other's movements within 0.5 seconds.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Spillover benefits observed from world’s largest marine protected area, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

The world's largest fully protected marine protected area, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, provides spillover benefits for migratory species like bigeye and yellowfin tuna. Research reveals the protections of these regions also affect populations outside their borders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022

Snacking on almonds boosts gut health

Researchers at King's College London found that eating almonds increases butyrate production, promoting gut health and potentially alleviating constipation. The study also showed improved nutrient intake and a positive impact on the gut microbiome.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Alligators exposed to PFAS show autoimmune effects

A recent study found that alligators in the Cape Fear River basin have elevated levels of PFAS chemicals in their blood serum, leading to clinical and genetic indicators of immune system effects. The research team detected a significant association between PFAS exposure and autoimmune-like phenotypes in the affected alligators.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Toxicology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Trends in emergency department use after sexual assault

This study found a significant increase in sexual assault emergency department visits from 2006 to 2019, surpassing the growth of law enforcement reports. Meanwhile, admission rates for sexual assault patients decreased during this period.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 20, 2022

Completing Einstein’s homework on special relativity in electromagnetism

Researchers at Osaka University have demonstrated the relativistic contraction of an electric field produced by fast-moving charged particles, as predicted by Einstein’s theory. This effect, corresponding to Lorentz transformation of electromagnetic potentials, has been observed using ultrafast electro-optic measurements.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

New data transmission record

Researchers from Technical University of Denmark and Chalmers University of Technology have achieved a world record in data transmission by transmitting 1.8 petabits per second using only a single laser and optical chip, significantly reducing power consumption and climate footprint.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Photonics·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Where political views and fundamental beliefs intersect

A new study from The Primals Project at the University of Pennsylvania challenges the long-held assumption that conservatives see the world as more dangerous than liberals. Instead, researchers found that both conservatives and liberals view the world as similarly dangerous, with a hierarchical worldview playing a significant role in s...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateOct 20, 2022

Research co-led by CityU develops a high-resolution, wearable electrotactile rendering device that virtualizes the sense of touch

A team co-led by CityU developed a wearable electrotactile rendering system that can mimic the sensation of touch with high spatial resolution and a rapid response rate. The device has various application potential, including enhancing VR/AR experiences and facilitating work in thick gloves.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

A ‘door’ into the mitochondrial membrane

A new study has discovered that MTCH2, a protein essential in various cellular processes, acts as a 'door' for proteins to access the mitochondrial membrane. The finding opens up potential avenues for cancer treatments by harnessing apoptosis, a programmed cell death mechanism.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Research reveals magma activity beneath Mount Edgecumbe

Magma is rising to about 6 miles from a depth of 12 miles, causing earthquakes and surface deformation. The new approach could lead to earlier detection of volcanic unrest in Alaska.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 20, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Monkeypox: High vaccine acceptance among users of European gay-dating apps

A survey among European gay-dating app users found a 82% crude vaccination acceptance rate. Willingness to vaccinate increased with factors like perceived severity of monkeypox, transmission risk, and existing health links. Higher acceptance rates were seen in northern and western Europe compared to southern and eastern regions.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeSurvey·DateOct 20, 2022

Canine distemper virus drives selection for black-coated wolves

A new study found that black-coated wolves are less likely to die during a canine distemper virus outbreak than gray-coated wolves. However, black wolves have lower reproductive success compared to grey wolves in areas without the disease.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022

New study unveils vertically oriented 2D ruddlesden–popper phase perovskite passivation layer for efficient and stable inverted PSCS

Researchers have developed a vertically oriented 2D Ruddlesden–Popper phase perovskite passivation layer for efficient and stable inverted PSCs. The new design achieved a champion PCE of 21.4% in devices with outstanding humidity and thermal stability.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Gel-like, radioactive tumor implant obliterates pancreatic cancer in mice

Researchers at Duke University have developed a novel treatment that combines internal radiation and chemotherapy to eliminate tumors in 80% of mice with pancreatic cancer. The approach uses a gel-like depot implanted with radioactive iodine-131, which deposits beta radiation directly into the tumor without affecting surrounding tissue.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

High entropy alloys: Structural disorder and magnetic properties

Researchers probed local structure and magnetic properties of a Mn-rich Cantor alloy using EXAFS and XMCD techniques. The results show complex magnetic ordering with coexistence of different phases, consistent with macroscopic behavior.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNano Research·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Breakthrough in protecting bananas from Panama disease

Scientists have discovered a way to control Panama disease in bananas using specialized anti-fungal chemistries, providing hope for the global banana supply. The study's findings reveal that these chemistries can suppress the disease and maintain plant health, opening new avenues for efficient control strategies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateOct 20, 2022

Chew on this: Personalized health care for mountain gorillas

Scientists used a noninvasive tool of chewed plants to monitor mountain gorillas for human herpesviruses, finding no evidence of infection among the free-ranging gorillas. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of personalized health care for endangered mountain gorillas using this relatively new technique.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 20, 2022

New genetic research by UMass Amherst advances understanding of internal mechanisms of biological clocks

The study reveals that a genetic mutation can accelerate the body's internal clock, leading to improved adjustment to shift work schedules. The findings have implications for understanding the health consequences of circadian misalignment and developing medical treatments.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Global collaboration led by Stanford researcher shows that a posed smile can improve your mood

A recent study published in Nature Human Behavior found that posed smiles can increase happiness. The Many Smiles Collaboration, led by Stanford researcher Nicholas Coles, involved over 3,800 participants from 19 countries and used three techniques to encourage smiling, with the pen-in-mouth method showing no significant effect.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

MIT engineers develop sensors for face masks that help gauge fit

The researchers developed a conformable multimodal sensor face mask (cMaSK) with 17 sensors around the edge of the mask that measure capacitance, temperature, humidity, air pressure, and other parameters. The study found that mask fit was significantly worse for women than men due to gender-related differences in face shape and size.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateOct 20, 2022

New: Points to consider to help people with an RMD stay in work

The new EULAR points-to-consider support individuals with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) by acknowledging the benefits of staying in work, including increased self-worth and financial independence. These principles aim to optimise work-life balance and support physical and mental health.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Gene mutations in tumors impact radiation sensitivity

A new Northwestern Medicine study identifies common and rare gene mutations that impact radiation resistance and sensitivity. This information will allow clinicians to better calibrate radiation doses based on genetic mutations, improving treatment efficacy while reducing toxicity.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 20, 2022

eLife ends accept/reject decisions following peer review

eLife is ending its practice of making accept/reject decisions following peer review, instead publishing every paper it reviews as a Reviewed Preprint. This new model restores control to authors, promoting the assessment of scientists based on their research output rather than publication venue.

SourceeLife·DateOct 20, 2022

Patients in lower-income countries receive less timely cancer diagnoses

A meta-analysis of 410 articles from 68 countries found that patients in lower-income countries take up to four times longer to initiate care for cancer treatment. Cancers causing non-specific symptoms, such as myeloma and colorectal cancer, typically take the longest to diagnose.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Why late-night eating leads to weight gain, diabetes

Research at Northwestern University finds that eating during the daytime is ideal for dissipating energy as heat, while nighttime eating disrupts this process. This study's findings have broad implications for dieting, sleep loss, and patient nutrition, particularly in cases of Type II Diabetes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

Can smartphones predict mortality risk?

Researchers used data from 100,000 UK Biobank participants to develop predictive models of mortality risk using only 6 minutes of steady walking collected by smartphone sensors. These models achieved similar accuracy to traditional measures of gait speed and walk pace.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Study: Stock purchases by senators generate abnormal returns for firms

A new study by University of Arkansas researchers found that the firms experiencing greater returns around the date of senator's purchase disclosure have direct jurisdiction over them through a committee assignment or sponsorship. This suggests investors' perception of senators trading on inside information may be inaccurate over time.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeCase study·DateOct 20, 2022

Mountain gorilla population growth related to group density and female movements

A recent study by the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International analyzed demographic data over 50 years to understand factors influencing mountain gorilla population growth. The research found that increased group density led to slower reproduction in females, resulting in a significant slowing of population growth.

SourceDian Fossey Gorilla Fund International·JournalAnimal Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022

Rice lab advances water-splitting catalysts

Engineers at Rice University have discovered a method to make oxygen evolution catalysis in acids more economical and practical. They replaced rare and expensive iridium with ruthenium, a far more abundant precious metal, as the positive-electrode catalyst in a reactor that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022
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.

High aerobic fitness does not protect children from metabolic syndrome

A recent study published in Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport reveals that high aerobic fitness does not protect children from metabolic syndrome. In contrast, a lower risk was observed when considering body size and composition.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalJournal of Science and Medicine in Sport·DateOct 20, 2022

Sickly shades of grey: Disease outbreaks influence the color of wolves across North America

Research from the University of Oxford and Yellowstone National Park found that wolves with black coats are more likely to survive canine distemper virus (CDV) outbreaks. This suggests that the gene for a black coat may provide protection against the virus, leading to its increased frequency in areas with CDV outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateOct 20, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Disadvantaged children missing out on meals in childcare

A study by the University of Queensland found that 65% of childcare centers in rural areas provide meals, while those in disadvantaged communities face significant challenges. The provision of high-quality food is essential for children's learning and development, yet many families struggle to afford nutritious meals.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 20, 2022