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Science News Archive 2023 - Page 154


Page 154 of 444

Could microplastics in soil introduce drug-resistant superbugs to the food supply?

Researchers warn that microplastics and nanoplastics in agricultural soils could contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacteria entering the food chain. This phenomenon is not well known, but studies suggest that plastics can act as vectors for transmitting pathogenic and antimicrobial resistant bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPathogens·DateAug 23, 2023

‘Climate distress’ is linked to poor mental health, but may also inspire action

A new study finds that climate distress in young adults is associated with negative emotions like anger and frustration, yet also motivates them to take positive actions for the environment. The study suggests that targeting climate-aware psychosocial support can help sustain young people's climate engagement and mental health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 23, 2023

Blink and you'll miss these plants shooting their seeds

Researchers found that witch hazel species with heavier seeds can fling them just as fast as lighter ones due to their spring-loaded fruits. The plants' unique mechanism involves the seed capsule drying out and deforming, releasing elastic energy to propel the seed forward.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2023

Artificial intelligence can now estimate rice yields, according to new study

Researchers from Okayama University used CNNs to estimate rice yield from pre-harvest photographs, achieving accuracy of 68-69%. The model highlighted the importance of panicles in yield estimation and showed promise for monitoring rice productivity at regional scales.

SourceOkayama University·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Malaysian rock art found to depict elite–Indigenous conflict

Researchers uncover charcoal drawings at Gua Sireh Cave, dating back to the 1600s and 1800s AD, depicting Indigenous resistance to frontier violence. The site's unique artwork sheds light on the region's complex history of colonization and territorial violence.

SourceGriffith University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 23, 2023

Biodiversity protects against invasions of non-native tree species

A global study reveals that proximity to human activity and native biodiversity are crucial factors in determining the likelihood and severity of non-native tree invasions. Native species help buffer the intensity of these invasions by filling available niches, making it harder for non-native trees to spread.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 23, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

MSU research suggests natural selection can slow evolution, maintain similarities across generations

A new study from Michigan State University finds that natural selection can slow down evolution and keep similar traits across generations. Researchers used the wild radish plant as a model organism and selectively bred individuals with varying stamen lengths to test the influence of selection and constraint on this trait.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNew Phytologist·DateAug 23, 2023

Graphene discovery could help generate hydrogen cheaply and sustainably

Researchers from The University of Warwick and The University of Manchester have solved the long-standing puzzle of why graphene is permeable to protons. Protons are strongly accelerated around nanoscale wrinkles in perfect graphene crystals, which could lead to more sustainable hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023

2024 Hertz Fellowship application now open

The Fannie and John Hertz Foundation is accepting applications for the 2024 Hertz Fellowship awards. The five-year fellowship program provides funding, flexibility, and independence to pursue research and advance national security and economic vitality. Past recipients include Nobel laureates and leaders in various scientific disciplines.

SourceFannie and John Hertz Foundation·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

New dual-arm robot achieves bimanual tasks by learning from simulation

Researchers at the University of Bristol developed a novel Bi-Touch system enabling robots to perform manual tasks with human-like dexterity. The system uses simulation-based training for AI agents, which are then applied to real-world scenarios, achieving precise sensing, gentle interaction, and effective object manipulation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2023

AI recommendation vs. user subscription: analyzing in-feed digital advertising performance on platforms like Twitter, Google News, and TikTok

Researchers found that subscription channels have greater source credibility and content control, leading to higher conversion rates despite perceived ad intrusiveness. In contrast, AI-recommended channels elicit more clicks but with smaller proportions of genuine interest and purchases.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 23, 2023

How artificial intelligence gave a paralyzed woman her voice back

Researchers at UCSF and UC Berkeley have developed a brain-computer interface (BCI) that allows a woman with severe paralysis from a brainstem stroke to speak through a digital avatar. The system can decode brain signals into text at nearly 80 words per minute, making it a vast improvement over commercially available technology.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Human activities appear to drive insect declines in Europe

A review of 82 studies found human activities influencing insect habitats, leading to declines in Central and Western Europe. Agricultural activities, urbanization, and climate change are identified as primary drivers of observed changes in insect populations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 23, 2023

New modeling method helps to understand extreme heat waves

A new climate modeling method called ensemble boosting can simulate a large set of extreme but plausible heat waves, providing a worst-case scenario for planning and preparation. This method helps prepare for the potential loss of tens of thousands of lives in extreme heat waves.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2023

Male sex chromosome finally deciphered

A team of researchers has fully sequenced the Y chromosome, completing the human genome puzzle and unveiling new insights into male-specific development, fertility, and disease. The achievement reveals detailed structures of sperm-regulating gene families and discovers additional genes in the Y chromosome.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Breast cancer study altered guidelines in Sweden

A Swedish study revealed that including all eleven associated genes in the screening test doubled the proportion of women with genetically confirmed hereditary breast cancer. The study included 4759 individuals and found that around 85% of women investigated for suspected hereditary breast cancer had a genetic abnormality.

SourceLund University·JournalBMC Cancer·DateAug 23, 2023

Heavy drinking, handgun-carrying linked among rural youth

A study published in The Journal of Rural Health found that rural US youth who engage in heavy drinking are more likely to carry a handgun, with a 43% increased risk. The study suggests that evidence-based prevention programs can address both behaviors and potentially lower firearm-related harm among adolescents.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 23, 2023

Study: Atmospheric circulation weakens following volcanic eruptions

A new study reveals that volcanic eruptions can temporarily weaken the Pacific Walker Circulation, a major driver of global precipitation. The recent strengthening of this circulation suggests that aerosols from human activity may have an opposite effect on its behavior.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023
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 reveals how diabetes drug extends lifespan in lab models

Research reveals that metformin promotes longevity in C. elegans worms by increasing production of ether lipids, a major structural component of cell membranes. This suggests that boosting ether lipid synthesis may support healthy aging and reduce the impact of aging-related diseases.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournaleLife·DateAug 23, 2023

A better understanding of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome could benefit long COVID patients

A special section of WORK journal provides insights into the overlap and differences between ME/CFS and Long COVID, highlighting the importance of early recognition of post-exertional malaise (PEM) for symptom management. Researchers emphasize the need for specialized care and pacing as a therapeutic strategy to improve quality of life.

SourceIOS Press·JournalWork·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023

Sci­en­tists develop fermionic quan­tum pro­ces­sor

Researchers have designed a new type of quantum computer that uses fermionic atoms to simulate complex physical systems. The processor can efficiently simulate fermionic models in a hardware-efficient manner using fermionic gates, making it ideal for simulating systems where fermionic statistics play a crucial role.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 23, 2023

Simplifying the estimation of volatile organic compounds emitted from wildfires

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a serious cause of concern in wildfire emissions. Researchers found that information on combustion temperatures can help estimate VOC emissions, with over 70% of variability explained by two temperature factors for 22 long-lived VOCs.

SourceYCU Advanced Medical Research Center·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeNews article·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Many websites selling fertility tests making misleading claims

A study published in JAMA Network Open found that many websites selling fertility tests make misleading claims about their effectiveness and limitations. The researchers called for increased regulation and oversight on the marketing of home fertility tests, which can lead to false reassurance or worry among women.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 23, 2023

Deforestation limits nesting habitat for cavity-nesting birds

A study found that deforestation in tropical regions destroys nesting habitats for certain bird species, limiting their reproduction. Nest boxes can provide a successful conservation strategy for these birds, particularly in agricultural lands where they are more abundant.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalBiotropica·DateAug 23, 2023

Why do some politicians cling to power after electoral defeat?

A recent paper by University of Auckland academics explores why losing politicians fight back, highlighting the role of electoral integrity in ensuring power transitions. Protests, election results clarity, and transparent processes interact to determine an incumbent's decision to step down.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalJournal of Conflict Resolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 23, 2023

Insurance data reveal that vasectomies are becoming more common in the U.S.

Researchers found a remarkable surge in US vasectomy rates from 2014 to 2021, with a 26% relative increase among privately insured men aged 18-64. The study highlights the importance of healthcare providers offering vasectomy counseling and services to meet growing patient needs.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalUrology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Noncoding DNA explains a majority of the heritability of dairy cattle traits, like milk production and fertility

A study published in Cell Genomics reveals that noncoding DNA accounts for 69% of the heritability of dairy cattle traits, including milk production and fertility. This breakthrough could improve the efficiency of agricultural breeding programs and provide a new model system for future studies in humans and other animals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Genomics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2023

People taking adult education classes run lower risk of dementia

Researchers found that participants taking adult education classes had a 19% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who did not. This association held true for both Caucasian and non-Caucasian individuals, as well as those with pre-existing health conditions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023

Ice-free preservation method holds promise to protect reefs

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an isochoric vitrification technique that preserves and revives live coral fragments without forming ice. This breakthrough enables the collection of coral samples throughout the year, supporting conservation efforts to protect reefs and their diverse ecosystems.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 23, 2023

Deadly communication

Researchers developed a new strategy for T-cell-based immunotherapy using aptamers, which directly activates immune cells against cancer cells without genetic modifications. The innovative regulatory circuit establishes an artificial interaction between T cells and cancer cells.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Gregarious locusts wear contrasting black-brown ‘clothes’ to warn predators

The study reveals the ability of organisms to achieve distinct body color patterns through precise control of pigment deposition. Gregarious locusts use their black-brown warning coloration to enhance aposematism by stimulating both visual and olfactory senses, facilitating recognition of conspecifics and maintaining large swarms.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023

Health claims and doses of fish oil supplements

Fish oil supplements often make health claims without sufficient trial data, leading to potential variability in safety and efficacy due to differing doses of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. The study highlights the need for more rigorous regulation of these products.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

Researchers fully sequence the Y chromosome for the first time

For the first time, researchers have fully sequenced the Y chromosome using advanced sequencing technologies. The completed DNA sequence, named T2T-Y, improves sequencing accuracy for the chromosome, potentially helping identify genetic disorders and uncovering the roots of others.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2023

Researchers target lifecycle of parasite behind Chagas disease

UC researchers investigate signaling pathway of Trypanosoma cruzi to transform and reproduce, aiming to find better drug targets to kill the parasite. The study reveals crucial proteins involved in the parasite's survival and transmission, highlighting potential strategies for disease control.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalmBio·TypeObservational study·DateAug 23, 2023

Editorial: A macrophage is a macrophage is a macrophage—in metastasis

Researchers discuss the essential role of macrophages in metastatic growth of lung colonies in melanoma, highlighting their importance in clearing challenges to tissue integrity and promoting growth-related processes. The authors emphasize the need for targeted therapies against macrophages to combat untreatable metastasis.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 23, 2023
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.

El Niño and La Niña multi-year events could become more common

A new study reveals that the Pacific Walker Circulation has changed its behavior over the industrial era, with volcanic eruptions causing temporary weakening of the circulation. This could lead to more frequent multi-year La Niña or El Niño events, exacerbating climate-related risks.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023

Griffith on the cusp of a new vaccine modality breakthrough

A team of Griffith University researchers has developed a novel vaccine approach using reprogrammed bacterial cells to assemble vaccine particles. The new vaccine modality has shown promise in early development and has the potential to be a game-changer for developing many vaccines globally.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2023

Knowledge of building blocks of words plays an important role when deaf children learn to read, analysis shows

Morphological awareness plays a crucial role in deaf children learning to read and expand their vocabulary. The study found that this knowledge is more important for deaf students than phonology or phonics, offering opportunities for them to actively construct words.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalThe Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 23, 2023

U of M research team successfully tests new antifungal therapy for fungal meningitis

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have successfully tested a new oral antifungal therapy, Lipid Nanocrystal Amphotericin B, against cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-positive individuals. The treatment demonstrated improved survival rates and reduced toxicity compared to conventional intravenous amphotericin B.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 22, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Birds living at UCLA were less afraid of humans after the pandemic closure

Researchers found that birds allowed people to get much closer than expected, with an average distance of just 39 inches, suggesting a significant decrease in fear response. The study's findings challenge existing theories on bird behavior and may offer hope for North American bird populations threatened by human disturbances.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateAug 22, 2023

ChatGPT shows ‘impressive’ accuracy in clinical decision making

A new study found ChatGPT to be nearly 72 percent accurate across all medical specialties and phases of clinical care. It was also 77 percent accurate in making final diagnoses. However, the model struggled with differential diagnosis, which is a crucial aspect of medicine.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023
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.

HKUST researchers find how stem cell niche guides differentiation into functional cells, significant step towards stem cell therapies

Researchers at HKUST have found that the stem cell niche uses gap junctions to transport cAMP into stem cell progeny, controlling their differentiation. This discovery is significant for developing stem cell therapies to treat diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Tick- and mosquito-borne diseases prevalent in shelter dogs

A study found more than one in five infected shelter dogs with heartworm or Lyme disease, highlighting the importance of preventive medications. The research also showed that climate change is expanding the geographic range of disease-carrying ticks and mosquitoes.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateAug 22, 2023