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Science News Archive 2023 - Page 29


Page 29 of 444

UAB researchers demonstrate how genetics play a role in the development of hypertension

A recent study published in Circulation: Genomic and Precision Medicine reveals that genetics significantly contribute to the sex differences in hypertension development. The research found that females with high genetic risk scores had a higher risk of hypertension compared to males, while low-risk females had a lower risk than males.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCirculation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2023

A new possible explanation for the Hubble tension

Researchers from Universities of Bonn and St. Andrews propose an alternative theory of gravity as the cause of the discrepancy in measured values of the Hubble-Lemaitre constant. This 'modified Newtonian dynamics' (MOND) theory predicts the existence of regions with lower matter density, which would explain the observed deviations.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 1, 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.

Disability, Politecnico di Milano experiments with AI to make historic city centers accessible

Researchers used machine learning and mobile mapping systems to analyze the town of Sabbioneta's streets and pavements, identifying accessible trajectories and paths for citizens with motor disabilities. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of AI in assessing physical accessibility in historic urban contexts.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalInternational Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 1, 2023

Researchers caution diabetes patients’ use of fitness video games

A new study by Staffordshire University warns people with type-1 diabetes to use fitness video games with caution, as they may change perceptions of fatigue levels. The researchers recommend updating measurement tools for virtual game platforms to ensure safe and accurate exercise tracking.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalJournal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 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.

Flexible parental leave among immigrant mothers can promote integration

A new study finds that part-time parental leave fosters better labor market and educational pursuits among newly arrived migrant women in Sweden. The research challenges existing perceptions of parental leave among immigrant mothers, suggesting it can provide a support system during their initial transition period.

SourceStockholm University·JournalJournal of European Social Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2023

Unlocking the secret strength of marine mussels

Researchers at McGill University discovered a strong, quick-release connection between living and non-living tissues in marine mussels. The biointerface is mediated by serotonergic cilia-based adhesion, which can be controlled by neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.

SourceMcGill University·JournalScience·DateDec 1, 2023

SFU researchers sound out Canadian military’s plan to combat ocean noise pollution

A new study from Simon Fraser University examines the Canadian military's efforts to reduce underwater noise pollution impacts on species during training exercises. However, researchers highlight limitations in the current plan, including a narrow focus on marine mammals and lack of consideration for fish and invertebrates.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalMarine Policy·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2023

Vitamin D supplements do not prevent bone fractures in children

A major clinical trial found that vitamin D supplements had no effect on fracture risk or bone strength in children with vitamin D deficiency. The study, which included over 8,800 schoolchildren aged 6-13, boosted vitamin D levels but did not prevent fractures.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 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.

The world needs more empathy—here is how science can harness it

A new study by McGill researchers explores the power of imagination in evoking empathy, showing that vividly imagining someone else's problems motivates us to lend a helping hand. The study finds that personal distress is a more prominent form of empathy, which can actually be a catalyst for taking action.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEmotion·DateDec 1, 2023

A bombcrater pond network demonstrates the importance of connectivity for aquatic biodiversity

A Hungarian study reveals that pond networks rely on spatial position for species diversity, with central connections hosting higher microorganism and plankton diversity. This research highlights the importance of connectivity in maintaining biodiversity in fragmented ecosystems like bomb crater ponds.

SourceHun-Ren Ökológiai Kutatóközpont·JournalEcography·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2023

New understanding of oobleck-like fluids contributes to smart material design

Scientists investigate fundamental physics of non-Newtonian fluids, discovering that friction between particles plays a critical role in their behavior. This new understanding contributes to smart material design and could lead to applications such as clump-free paint, wearable protective gear, and customized materials with controlled ...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Clinical smart watch finds success at identifying atrial fibrillation

A novel prescription wristwatch uses photoplethysmography to detect atrial fibrillation with high accuracy, even in participants with darker skin tones. The Verily Study Watch bridges the gap between long-term monitoring and consumer devices, enabling clinicians to effectively use wearable data for Afib management.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2023

Ghostlike dusty galaxy reappears in James Webb Space Telescope image

Astronomers identify AzTECC71 as a dusty star-forming galaxy, forming hundreds of new stars every year. The discovery suggests the early universe was much dustier than previously thought and may reveal a population of hidden galaxies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2023

Ten years on, Lung-MAP success demonstrates potential of public-private partnerships in clinical research

The Lung-MAP trial has demonstrated the potential of public-private partnerships in clinical research, increasing access to new treatment options for patients with lung cancer. The unique partnership between academia, advocacy, federal agencies, and industry has led to a more representative patient group being enrolled in clinical trials.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 1, 2023

Public gardens contribute to invasives problem

A recent study found that public gardens and arboretums are inadvertently spreading nonnative, invasive plants to wild areas, threatening native ecosystems. Many examples were cited from Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio, including the spread of exotic trees and shrubs with seeds dispersed by wind or birds.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalEcological Restoration·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 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.

Scientists navigate uncharted waters in fish immunology research

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine have identified a novel type of lymphoid microenvironment in fish that generates antibody responses. This discovery has significant implications for understanding immune system evolution and developing effective vaccines for the aquaculture industry.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Immunology·DateDec 1, 2023

Novel screening tool and recovery program may help reduce mental health problems after trauma

A novel mental health risk screen for hospitalized patients accurately predicts mental health outcomes, with 10 items correctly identifying 75% of those who later developed mental health issues. A tailored recovery program can also be effective in reducing mental health problems after trauma, increasing health equity among historically...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 1, 2023
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.

Research shows human behavior guided by fast changes in dopamine levels

A new study from researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine shows that dopamine release plays a crucial role in encoding reward and punishment prediction errors, allowing the brain to adjust its behavior. Dopamine not only signals positive experiences but also optimally encodes negative outcomes.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 1, 2023

Brace for a potentially record-breaking winter after sweltering summer and autumn

The Institute of Atmospheric Physics predicts a potentially record-breaking winter due to the convergence of global warming and the El Niño phenomenon. Regions in mid-low latitudes of Eurasia and Americas are likely to experience an exceptionally warm winter, with a 95% chance of setting a new historical record.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 1, 2023

Satellite remote sensing model for wide-area prediction of transpiration rates in Japanese cypress plantations

A new model developed by researchers at the University of Tsukuba can accurately predict transpiration rates in Japanese cypress plantations. The model uses satellite-based surface temperature data, multispectral imaging, and comprehensive forest inventory data to yield impressive results.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing·DateDec 1, 2023
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.

PicoRuler: molecular rulers for high-resolution microscopy

Researchers have developed PicoRulers, biocompatible molecular rulers for high-resolution microscopy. Using genetic code expansion and click chemistry, the team constructed customized molecular rulers based on the protein PCNA, enabling precise testing of super-resolution microscopy methods on cellular biomolecules.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2023

Brainstorming with a bot

A researcher has developed a chatbot with expertise in nanomaterials, leveraging document-retrieval method to provide accurate context. The bot uses embedding to categorize and link information quickly, generating factual responses sourced from trusted documents.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalDigital Discovery·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 1, 2023

Control over friction, from small to large scales

Researchers demonstrate that microscopic chemical bonds between silicon surfaces control friction, enabling quantitative understanding and control. By regulating bond density through drying time, they predict and control friction force.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 1, 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.

Adverse childhood experiences linked to muscle dysmorphia

A new study found that adverse childhood experiences are associated with greater muscle dysmorphia symptoms in Canadian adolescents and young adults. Adverse childhood experiences, such as domestic violence and emotional abuse, may lead to body dissatisfaction and the pursuit of muscularity as a coping mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalClinical Social Work Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2023

Replicating the structure of bird feathers

Researchers at ETH Zurich replicate the structural design of bluebird feathers using a new method. The material exhibits nanonetworks similar to those found in natural feathers and offers potential for technical and sustainable applications, including battery improvements and water filtration.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2023

Botany must feature more prominently on the school curriculum to promote awareness of climate change, study warns

A recent study warns that children should be taught more about the importance of plants in promoting awareness of climate change and sustainability. The study argues that botany should be a greater focus of educational policy, with teachers receiving support and training to challenge their existing assumptions about plants.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Biological Education·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 1, 2023
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.

Trends in adult smoking prevalence

A study of 353,000 US adults found a decline in smoking prevalence from 2011 to 2022, except for those 65 and older. The greatest gains in reducing smoking-attributable morbidity and mortality can be achieved by targeting individuals with low socioeconomic status.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateDec 1, 2023

Coverage of Bruce Willis’ frontotemporal degeneration shows media misconstrues the disease

A new paper reveals that media coverage of Bruce Willis' condition was inaccurate, with journalists misrepresenting the relationship between aphasia and frontotemporal degeneration. The disease was often described as if it were a separate disorder from aphasia, when in fact aphasia is a symptom of frontotemporal degeneration.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalInnovation in Aging·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 1, 2023

Mass General-developed brain care score (BCS) is a scientifically validated way to assess current health habits and risk to future brain health

The Brain Care Score (BCS) is a scientifically validated way to assess current health habits and risk to future brain health. A higher BCS score indicates better brain care and is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia and stroke. The study found that each five-point positive difference in the BCS was associated with a 59%...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateDec 1, 2023
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.

How does neonatal listeriosis impact children's health?

A study of 50 children infected with Listeria monocytogenes at birth found that two-thirds had sequelae, mainly due to prematurity. Long-term screening and tailored support can be offered to inform science-based guidance for parents.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2023

Social media influencers may affect more than voter opinions

Researchers found that social media influencers with distorted messages cause political parties to moderate their policies to win over independent voters. However, this leads to traditional media outlets becoming more extreme in their editorial positions, and citizens swayed by influencers growing more polarized.

SourcePenn State·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateDec 1, 2023

Researchers have taught an algorithm to 'taste'

Researchers have developed an AI algorithm that uses people's flavor impressions to make accurate predictions of individual wine preferences. The algorithm combines data from wine labels, user reviews, and sensory tastings to provide personalized recommendations.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateDec 1, 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.

Meditation training can support wellbeing in older adults

A new randomised controlled trial found that an 18-month meditation programme can improve the wellbeing of older adults by enhancing their awareness, connection to others, and insight. However, it did not confer significant benefits on two commonly used measures of psychological wellbeing.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 2023

Consensus needed on when global warming reaches 1.5°C

Researchers propose a new approach to measure global warming, combining the last ten years of temperature observations with projections for the next decade. The current level of global warming is around 1.26°C, with an uncertainty range of 1.13°C to 1.43°C.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 2023

Pickier dogs have pickier brains

A new study found that pickier dogs exhibit distinct brain responses when rewarded with higher-quality food, which influences their motivation. The research used behavioral observations and neuroimaging techniques to investigate the relationship between food quality and dog behavior.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2023

Optimistic thinking linked with lower cognitive abilities – new research

Research from the University of Bath found that excessive optimism is associated with lower cognitive skills, leading to poor decision-making in financial matters. Individuals with high cognitive ability tend to be more realistic and pessimistic, making better decisions.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 30, 2023
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.

Scientists use A.I.-generated images to map visual functions in the brain

Researchers used AI-selected natural images and synthetic images to probe visual processing areas of the brain, finding that predicted maximal activator images significantly activated targeted areas. The study suggests individualized models for each subject can improve understanding of visual system organization across populations.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCommunications Biology·DateNov 30, 2023

What makes sustainable consumption so difficult

Environmental and social factors greatly influence individual behavior, according to Professor Wilhelm Hofmann of Ruhr University Bochum. Traditional approaches focus on personal autonomy but neglect structural factors, leading to ineffective decisions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·DateNov 30, 2023

Rare ant species rediscovered in North Carolina trees

Researchers have discovered a rare ant species in North Carolina's tree canopies, documenting an entire colony for the first time. The species, Aphaenogaster mariae, has a distinctive arboreal lifestyle, with queens being smaller than other ant queens and males previously unknown to science.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington·TypeCase study·DateNov 30, 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.

Durable plastic pollution easily, cleanly degrades with new catalyst

A new catalyst developed by Northwestern University chemists can break down Nylon-6, a common plastic found in fishing nets, carpet, and clothing, in just minutes. The process does not generate harmful byproducts and is practical for everyday applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

New research explores future limits of survival and livability in extreme heat conditions

A new study explores the future limits of survival and livability in extreme heat conditions, finding that current estimates may not accurately represent impacts on human health. The research provides a range of safe temperatures based on factors like humidity, age, activity level, and sun exposure.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 2023

Sea fireflies synchronize their sparkle to seek soulmates

Researchers discovered that male ostracods create distinct patterns of bioluminescence to attract females, which are then mirrored by other males, creating a spectacular underwater display. The synchronized swim occurs after sunset at nautical twilight and is used to entice groups of females.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 30, 2023
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.

Fish-like genetic program used to turn human retinal cells into neurons

Researchers have successfully converted human retinal cells, specifically Muller glia, into neurons in a lab setting using an artificial fish-like genetic program. This breakthrough could potentially serve as a new source of neurons to treat vision loss caused by disease or trauma.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 30, 2023

Replacing animal products with a plant-based diet leads to weight loss, finds new analysis

Replacing animal products with plant-based foods leads to significant weight loss, reduced cholesterol and fat intake, and increased fiber consumption among overweight adults. A new analysis found that a vegan diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans results in an average weight loss of about 13 pounds.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 30, 2023

Combined use of alcohol and THC can affect rat brains, study finds

Researchers found that combined use of alcohol and THC affects the prefrontal cortex, impairing synaptic plasticity in rats. The effects were more pronounced in females and were likely due to changes in gamma-aminobutyric acid signaling.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNeuropharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Choice of intravenous fluid therapy could improve survival in critically ill patients

A new meta-analysis found that intravenous fluid therapy using balanced solutions can reduce the risk of in-hospital death in critically ill patients by four percent. Balanced solutions are more closely matched to human blood chemistry than commonly used saline, and may be associated with lower mortality rates.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 30, 2023