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Science News Archive April 2023 - Page 10


Page 10 of 37

Brian Clark selected to speak, presented discoveries at NIH workshop and in Journal of Gerontology

Researcher Brian Clark presents findings on the role of the nervous system in age-related muscle weakness, exploring potential therapeutic targets such as exercise and physical therapy. His work identifies neural mechanisms linked to low nerve cell excitability, impaired signal transmission, and reduced motor network integrity.

SourceOhio University·JournalJournal of Gerontology·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 24, 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.

Sliding out of my DMs: young social media users help train machine learning program to flag unsafe sexual conversations on Instagram

Researchers trained a machine learning program using data from over 5 million direct messages, annotated by 150 adolescents who experienced uncomfortable or unsafe conversations. The technology can quickly flag risky DMs and is intended to address rising trends of child sexual exploitation.

SourceDrexel University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2023

New phenotyping approach analyzes crop traits at the 3D level

A new phenotyping approach analyzes crop traits at the 3D level using a rail-based field phenotyping platform with LiDAR and an RGB camera. The method provides accurate quantification of crop traits such as plant height, leaf shape, and leaf color.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 24, 2023

Massive iceberg discharges during the last ice age had no impact on nearby Greenland, raising new questions about climate dynamics

A new study from Oregon State University found that massive iceberg discharges during the last ice age triggered rapid warming in Antarctica but had no effect on temperatures in Greenland. This discovery challenges current understanding of global climate dynamics and raises more questions than answers.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023

A twisted cell-cell adhesion molecule complex structure revealed by single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and high-speed atomic force microscopy

Researchers have elucidated the mechanism of CELSR cadherin dimerization, revealing a twisted cell-cell adhesion molecule complex structure. The extracellular domains of CELSR cadherins exhibited strand- and globule-like portions, which bound through strand-like structures in an antiparallel orientation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Understanding the long-term impact of climate change on Indian crops

A new study reveals that Indian farmers have adapted to climate change by changing management practices and using hardier crop varieties. However, the impact of climate change on crop yields varies across crops and regions, with some areas experiencing greater benefits than others.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalAgricultural Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cryo-imaging lifts the lid on fuel cell catalyst layers

Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel imaging technique using cryogenic transmission electron tomography and deep learning to visualize the nanostructure of platinum catalyst layers in fuel cells. This breakthrough reveals the heterogenous thickness of ionomer, a crucial component that influences catalyst performance.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 24, 2023

‘BeerBots’ could speed up the brewing process

Researchers develop self-propelled 'BeerBots' that ferment sugar faster than traditional yeast cells, reducing fermentation time and making separation of yeast from beer easier. The BeerBots were found to be active for up to three more brewing cycles after the initial fermentation process.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 24, 2023

Big Data research points out Omicron outbreak had lower mortality rates compared to previous strains of Covid-19

A Brazilian study analyzed data from over 40,000 patients admitted to ICUs and found lower mortality rates during the Omicron outbreak compared to previous strains of Covid-19. Vaccination coverage contributed to the lower mortality observed in the Omicron period, but vulnerable patients remain at risk.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalIntensive Care Medicine·DateApr 24, 2023

Monolayer hexagonal boron nitride can extend plasmonic enhancement limit

Researchers at Hefei Institutes of Physical Science discovered that monolayer hexagonal boron nitride can block electron tunneling, extending the ultimate plasmonic enhancement limit. This breakthrough enables potential novel applications in quantum plasmonics, providing insights into quantum mechanical effects.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 24, 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.

A blinking fish reveals clues as to how our ancestors evolved from water to land

Researchers studying the mudskipper, a fish that spends time on land, found that its blinking behavior serves similar functions as in humans and other tetrapods. The study suggests that blinking may have evolved as part of the suite of traits that allowed early tetrapods to adapt to life on land.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2023

Unveiling a fast and efficient method for detecting microRNAs

Researchers have created a new method for fast miRNA amplification and detection that reduces the time required to detect micro-RNAs. The technique combines rolling circle amplification (RCA) with CRISPR-Cas12a, resulting in improved sensitivity and specificity, and can be completed in just 70 minutes.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Electronic phase diagram established in Fe intercalated Weyl semimetal Td-MoTe2 for the first time

Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science established the first electronic phase diagram for Fe-intercalated Weyl semimetal Td-MoTe2, exhibiting exotic electronic behaviors and magnetic states. The study enriched the physical properties of Td-MoTe2 by 3D-element intercalation.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 24, 2023
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.

Sanghera receives funding for pilot project

Kamaljeet Sanghera has received funding to design a summer program for high school students to learn about AI development and its ethical impact. The pilot project will utilize IBM AI kits to provide hands-on experience and technical skills training.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateApr 24, 2023

A panoramic view on lithium-mediated electrochemical dinitrogen reduction reaction

The review summarizes the recent progress of Li-eN2 RR, covering reaction mechanisms, catalysts developed, and electrolytes involved. It highlights the challenges and possible resolving strategies in the field. The study also discusses the importance of rational design of electrocatalysts and electrolytes for efficient NH3 production.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 24, 2023

Protecting big trees for wildlife also benefits climate

A new analysis reveals that protecting large trees in old-growth forests can sequester significant amounts of carbon and promote biodiversity. The study concludes that policy initiatives aligning conservation with climate change mitigation priorities are crucial for preserving these natural carbon sinks.

SourceConservation Biology Institute·JournalConservation Science and Practice·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 24, 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.

Machine learning-aided scoring of synthesis difficulties for designer chromosomes

A machine learning framework predicts and quantifies chromosome synthesis difficulties, providing guidance for optimizing design and synthesis processes. The model achieved high accuracy and predictive ability, enabling the development of a Synthesis difficulty Index to explain causes of synthesis difficulties.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 24, 2023

Neutralizing monoclonal antibody use and COVID-19 infection outcomes

A study of 167,000 non-hospitalized patients revealed that neutralizing monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19 was associated with significant reductions in emergency department visits, hospitalization rates, and mortality. These findings suggest targeted risk stratification strategies may optimize future nMAb treatment decisions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 24, 2023

New dual mode ratio fluorescence sensing system enables rapid in situ detection of carbaryl residues

A team of researchers developed a rapid in situ detection system for carbaryl residues, enabling sensitive and immediate detection with a low detection limit of 16.3 nM. The system utilizes a combination of silicon quantum dots, gold nanoparticles, and cadmium telluride quantum dots, allowing for portable and practical field testing.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateApr 24, 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.

US and allies can learn from military medical lessons in Ukraine

The US military medical system is not ready to handle major conflicts with near-peer adversaries, who possess similar military capabilities. Prolonged field care training and strong patient data are crucial to address the challenges of evacuating wounded soldiers and providing specialized surgical care.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 24, 2023

For birds, blending in may result in more diversity

A study reveals that birds in multispecies flocks from Southeast Asia converge on similar appearances, blurring species distinctions. This phenomenon may contribute to diversity by allowing birds to adapt and evolve distinct traits within a species.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateApr 24, 2023

Iron is an important regulator of neurodifferentiation

This study found that iron deficiency impairs neural differentiation, leading to reduced Pax6- and Sox2-positive neuronal precursor cells and Tuj1 fibers. Iron supplementation restores normal differentiation, suggesting ferrodifferentiation as a new therapeutic approach for neurological diseases.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 24, 2023

Researchers design battery prototype with fiber-shaped cathode

A team of researchers at North Carolina State University has created a zinc-ion battery prototype with a fiber-shaped cathode, which can power a wrist watch. The team used graphene oxide and manganese dioxide materials to create a yarn-shaped battery that is strong, flexible, and electrically conductive.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Problems with ‘pruning’ brain connections linked to adolescent mental health disorders

Research suggests that problems with the brain's ability to 'prune' itself of unnecessary connections may underlie a wide range of mental health disorders that begin during adolescence. Adolescents experiencing mental health problems showed similar patterns of brain activity, which were largely apparent in the frontal lobes.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023
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.

Characterizing the contaminated couriers of omicron SARS-CoV-2 variants

New research found that temperature and original viral concentration affect the persistence of Omicron variants on shipping materials. The study reveals that lower temperatures and higher viral concentrations increase stability, while room temperature poses a risk. Safety protocols for shipping goods can be improved with this knowledge.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·DateApr 24, 2023

Vaccine printer could help vaccines reach more people

Researchers at MIT have created a vaccine printer that can produce hundreds of vaccine doses in a day, using microneedle patches that can be stored long-term at room temperature. The printer can be deployed anywhere vaccines are needed, providing on-demand vaccine production.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 24, 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.

Increased exhaustion in maternal and neonatal care during pandemic

A recent study found that nearly 80% of maternal and neonatal healthcare workers experienced a heavy workload during the pandemic, with 18% exceeding the clinical threshold for burnout. Women and young staff were particularly vulnerable to stress and exhaustion.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalInternational Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics·TypeSurvey·DateApr 24, 2023

New tool for genetics and cultivating high-quality rice

A custom SNP array containing over 56,606 genetic markers has been created to help breeders select high-quality rice varieties. The Rice3K56 chip demonstrated impressive accuracy in identifying relevant genome and provided more genetic variability information than other previously developed arrays.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalThe Crop Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Growing number of states provide coverage for outpatient hemodialysis for undocumented immigrants

A growing number of states have implemented policies to cover outpatient hemodialysis for undocumented immigrants with kidney failure. This expansion may be due to increased awareness of poor outcomes with emergency hemodialysis and advocacy efforts. The move towards covering dialysis in all 50 states is called for by experts, who also...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023

Metabolism: not the limiting factor in prokaryotic endosymbiosis

Research team used genome models to test viability, persistence, and evolvability of prokaryote endosymbioses, finding that more than half were viable but often less fit and adaptable than their ancestors. The study suggests metabolic network compatibility is unlikely the limiting factor in prokaryotic endosymbiosis.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Webb reveals early-universe prequel to huge galaxy cluster

Astronomers have confirmed a protocluster of seven galaxies at a distance of 650 million years after the Big Bang, which will grow into a massive galaxy cluster resembling the Coma Cluster. The James Webb Space Telescope's spectrographic data revealed high velocities and dark matter halo characteristics.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 24, 2023

Debunking false beliefs requires tackling belief systems

A new study by Dartmouth College researchers found that biased prior beliefs played a significant role in how people from both political parties updated their fraud beliefs after the 2020 U.S. presidential election. The study used a probability-based computational model to analyze survey data and found that Democrats and Republicans te...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeSurvey·DateApr 24, 2023

Group cyclists urged to spread out as it can affect exposure to vehicle emissions

A recent study by the University of Surrey found that group cyclists can reduce their exposure to vehicle pollutants by spreading out, especially in busier roads. The research highlights the importance of considering wind movement and positioning within a group to minimize exposure.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics·DateApr 24, 2023

Future doctors and nurses feel unprepared for disasters

A University of Gothenburg study found that future doctors and nurses in Sweden consider their disaster medicine knowledge inadequate. Students who have been conscripts or have experience in rescue services scored higher on a self-assessment questionnaire, suggesting 40 hours of education is reasonably adequate.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateApr 24, 2023

Health surveys, studies exclude trans people and gender-diverse communities, impacting health care

A new study reveals that health surveys and clinical studies often exclude transgender and gender-diverse individuals due to the way they record sex or gender. This exclusion can lead to reduced accuracy and inclusivity in study results, resulting in increased health disparities and limited access to healthcare for these communities.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 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.

Mudskippers could be key to understanding evolution of blinking

A team of researchers studied mudskippers to understand the evolution of blinking, a crucial behavior for eye health and communication. They found that blinking emerged as an adaptation to life on land, with three main functions: wetting, cleaning, and protecting the eye.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

120-year-old storm’s secrets key to understanding weather risks

Researchers have recovered old weather records from the 1903 Storm Ulysses, revealing it was one of the strongest storms in British history. The digital data analysis shows that similar storms would be rare today, highlighting the risks and potential damage they could cause.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 24, 2023

Hidden RNA repair mechanism discovered in humans

Researchers have identified a new human RNA ligase protein that plays a protective role against cellular stress and oxidative damage. The enzyme, C12orf29, links the ends of RNA strands in three characteristic steps and protects cells from menadione-induced oxidative stress.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 24, 2023

Better superconductors with palladium

Researchers have found a material, palladium, that is optimally suited for creating superconductors with high transition temperatures. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize electricity generation and transportation by enabling materials to conduct electricity without loss at normal room temperature and atmospheric pressure.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023
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.

The ABA-induced NAC transcription factor MdNAC1 interacts with a bZIP-type transcription factor to promote anthocyanin synthesis in red-fleshed apples

MdNAC1 significantly promotes anthocyanin accumulation, enhancing its transcriptional activation through interaction with MdbZIP23. ABA induction further enhances MdNAC1's ability to promote anthocyanin synthesis in red-fleshed apples.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2023

Maternal and early-life high-fat diets result in a taste for salty food

A study published in Scientific Reports found that rats exposed to high-fat diets during pregnancy and early life developed a preference for salty taste. This preference was linked to increased levels of AT1 protein in the taste buds, which can lead to higher sodium intake and potentially contribute to obesity and diet-linked diseases.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 24, 2023

Portable electrochemical sensor designed for lead ion detection

A portable electrochemical sensor has been developed for lead ion detection using cobalt-doped Prussian blue combined with MXene material. The sensor exhibits a linear detection range of 1-200 nM, ultra-low detection limit of 0.97 nM and high accuracy in detecting lead ions in different water samples.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Electroanalytical Chemistry·DateApr 24, 2023

Fear not the deadlines, new research finds

Researchers found high sympathetic activation while working, regardless of deadlines, but factors like smartphone use and reading/writing can exacerbate this. The study revealed that researchers instinctively adjust break frequency to regulate stress, providing fresh insights into their behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Houston·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 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.

No need to load up on extracurricular activities, study finds

Researchers at Ohio State University found that students who participated in one school sport and one other non-sport extracurricular activity were more likely to attend college and attend more selective colleges. Participating in two or more extracurricular activities gave no advantage over taking part in just one.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2023

Achieving prevention and health, rather than more healthcare

Researchers found deaths from gallstone disease increased in younger populations and those with Medicaid after Medicaid expansion, highlighting the need for proactive prevention over reactive emergency care. A new healthcare model emphasizing primary care and prevention is proposed to address these inequities.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 23, 2023

Integrating genetic and environmental risk assessment to improve stroke precision prevention

A new study has found that combining genetic and environmental risk assessment can improve the accuracy of stroke risk prediction. The research used a stroke PRS for East Asian populations and found that individuals with high PRS values were at higher risk of stroke, even among those with intermediate clinical risk profiles.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 23, 2023

Landmark Malawi trial boosts iron levels in pregnant women

A landmark Malawian trial has found a single iron infusion can significantly reduce iron deficiency in pregnant women, compared to daily tablets. The treatment, Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM), reduced iron deficiency by around 60% and showed promise for addressing anaemia in resource-poor nations.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 23, 2023
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.

Creating universal critical nitrogen dilution curves for japonica rice

A team of researchers from China created universal critical nitrogen dilution curves for 10 Japonica rice cultivars using machine learning methods. The study found that parameters a and b vary with cultivar, year, site, and N fertilizer quantity and ratio. Three universal N C curves were obtained using different approaches, which accur...

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2023

Long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health services utilization

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound effect on healthcare services utilization in mainland China, with a 32% reduction in hospital visits and a negative impact on bed utilization rates two years later. Regional differences were observed, highlighting the need for targeted primary healthcare services and resilient health systems.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlobal Transitions·TypeObservational study·DateApr 23, 2023

Researchers conduct whale fall studies in the South China Sea

A team of researchers conducted simulated whale fall experiments using cow carcasses in the South China Sea, revealing a strong dissimilarity between whale fall communities at different ocean depths. The study highlights the importance of whale falls as unique biodiversity hotspots for sustaining deep-sea life.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeCase study·DateApr 23, 2023