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Science News Archive August 2023 - Page 15


Page 15 of 38

Hard-of-hearing music fans prefer a different sound

Researchers found that hard-of-hearing listeners prefer louder levels of lead vocals compared to normal listeners. They also tend to prefer higher frequencies and sparser mixes with fewer frequencies overall.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of the Acoustical Society of America·DateAug 22, 2023

New study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying SLC29A3 disorders

Researchers have uncovered how aberrant nucleoside storage in lysosomes leads to constitutive activation of TLR7 and TLR8, driving histiocytosis in SLC29A3 disorders. The study suggests that TLR7/8 stress response is a key player in the condition's pathogenesis.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Firearm injuries and the pandemic: Lower opportunity neighborhoods are disproportionately affected

A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that children from lower opportunity neighborhoods experienced a significantly higher rate of firearm-related injury during the pandemic. The study found that unsafe storage of guns and single-parent households, combined with the stress of an unprecedented international emergency, exacerbated...

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2023

How bacteria surf cargo through the cell

Researchers discovered that bacteria employ 'surfing' proteins called ParA/MinD ATPases to transport cargo across the cell. These systems interact with each other, enabling complex movements before cell division. The findings provide a basis for developing synthetic biology tools and understanding bacterial pathogens.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Grow-your-own households eat more fruit and vegetables and waste less

A new study from the University of Sheffield found that households growing their own food produce more than half of the vegetables and 20% of the fruit they consume annually, resulting in a 70% increase in recommended 5-a-day portions. Households also waste less, with only 0.12 portions thrown out daily.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalPlants People Planet·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.

Poor report card for children’s wellbeing

A new study found that children's mental health and wellbeing gradually worsened over the past six years, with measures of life satisfaction, optimism, and emotional regulation declining consistently since 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on young Australians, particularly those in higher year levels and from lower...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

New study finds electoral uncertainty threatens international investment at companies with government ties

A new study in the Global Strategy Journal found that electoral uncertainty creates challenges for state-owned businesses and multinationals with indirect government ties. These companies are less likely to expand internationally during election years and instead adopt more flexible strategies or withdraw state support.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Glitter impairs growth of organisms with key roles in aquatic ecosystems, study shows

A study by researchers at the University of São Paulo found that glitter can hinder the growth of cyanobacteria, a key component of aquatic ecosystems. The toxic effects of glitter on microorganisms have not been well-studied, but the findings suggest that even low concentrations can negatively impact susceptible organisms.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateAug 22, 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.

Fabry–Perot-based phase demodulation of heterodyne light-induced thermoelastic spectroscopy

Researchers developed FPI-based phase demodulation for heterodyne LITES, improving SNR and detecting gas concentrations accurately. The method reduces interference and provides linear response, long-term stability, and independent signal peak-to-peak values.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateAug 22, 2023

A method for measuring the spongelike properties of human skin

Researchers developed a novel approach to quantify human skin's hydraulic permeability, discovering the dermis layer has the highest water absorption. The method uses atomic force microscopy and poroelastic theory to analyze skin samples, with potential applications for assessing skin moisturizing additives.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateAug 22, 2023

Police involvement may hamstring overdose outreach efforts

A new study found that law enforcement's role in post-overdose outreach programs may undermine their effectiveness. The research highlights the importance of law enforcement data and contact information to reach overdose survivors, but also notes challenges posed by police involvement due to lack of training and negative past experiences.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·TypeSurvey·DateAug 22, 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.

Mount Sinai study identifies most effective and safest outpatient labor induction methods, potentially reducing hospital stays and increasing hospital efficiency in use of resources

A Mount Sinai study identified the most effective and safest outpatient labor induction methods, using low-dose vaginal misoprostol, which reduces hospital stays and increases hospital efficiency. The study found that this approach does not increase cesarean delivery risk or complications.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 22, 2023

‘Coastal squeeze:’ Massive loss of U.S. coastline tidal flats over 31 years

A new study reveals massive urban expansions throughout the contiguous US, particularly on the Atlantic Coast, have led to significant tidal flat erosion. The research highlights the critical impact of human activities on tidal flat environments, providing important implications for coastal land use and planning.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Catheter ablation in very old patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation

A new study found that catheter ablation significantly lowers the incidence of cardiovascular events and death in very old patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. The researchers compared 208 patients who underwent AF ablation with those who received medical therapy only, finding a lower risk of both cardiovascular events and de...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

UIC leads national consortium educating next generation of quantum engineers

The ReACT-QISE Consortium aims to create a diverse workforce of quantum engineers, with UIC leading a $4.8 million three-year initiative funded by the DOE RENEW Initiative. The consortium will introduce students to key concepts in physics and computer science, and support the creation of new degree programs and research experiences.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateAug 22, 2023

Pacific coral reef shows historic increase in climate resistance

A new study reveals that Pacific coral reefs have increased their thermal tolerance to higher ocean temperatures, reducing the risk of bleaching. This natural adaptation could help reefs withstand climate change if global carbon emissions are cut down.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Many older adults want RSV vaccine, poll shows

A new University of Michigan poll suggests that nearly half of older adults do not know about the new RSV vaccines, while some groups show much less interest in getting the vaccine. The virus poses a significant risk to older adults with lung or immune system conditions, and those who live in nursing homes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateAug 22, 2023

Paired liver exchange developed by Boston College economists results in first four-way liver exchange

A new matching system enabled by Boston College economists facilitates the world's first four-way liver exchange and a cascade of additional matches. The system increases the number of transplants that can be matched among a larger group of participants, expanding capacity beyond traditional two-way exchanges.

SourceBoston College·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

Optimizing tissue oxygenation in breast reduction surgery

Researchers developed a device to improve tissue oxygenation in breast reduction surgery, which increased oxygen levels and reduced wound breakdowns. The study showed the device was safe, easy-to-use, and well accepted by patients.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Surgical Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 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.

What’s the risk of a mass shooting at your school?

Scientists estimate annual probability of a mass shooting in every US state and public places like schools, using statistical methods and computer simulations. The study finds that mass shootings are low-probability but high-consequence events.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Heat related illnesses dramatically on the rise among US Veterans

A statistically significant increase in heat-related illnesses was found among patients at US Department of Veteran Affairs facilities between 2002 and 2019. Specific groups, such as those with existing health conditions and certain ethnic groups, were more vulnerable to heat-related illness.

SourceElsevier·JournalThe Journal of Climate Change and Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 22, 2023

Lithuanian invention at the forefront of solar technology breakthrough

A recent publication in Science reports on improvements in silicon-perovskite tandem cells, achieving a record-breaking 32.5% efficiency. The development of these high-efficiency solar cells was led by Lithuanian researchers from Kaunas University of Technology.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Rediscovering the joy of music collection

Research from Bar-Ilan University reveals a link between music collection and improved listening experience, suggesting that users can enhance their enjoyment by actively curating their playlists within streaming apps. The studies also found that the act of collecting music is pleasant and can elevate listening levels.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPersonal and Ubiquitous Computing·DateAug 22, 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.

Timing is key

Researchers have deciphered a biochemical mechanism explaining how cortisone preparations mediate inflammation-resolving effects in human immune cells. Cortisone influences enzymes involved in the formation of inflammation-resolving messenger substances, inducing resolvins early but impairing function later.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Estrogen receptor mutation study suggests potential treatments for endometrial cancers

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered that estrogen receptor mutations in endometrial cancers cause large changes in gene expression and cellular behavior. Inhibitors of CDK9, a protein that works with estrogen receptors, were found to be effective at reducing the growth and aggressiveness of endometrial cancer cells.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateAug 21, 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.

Surviving on an empty battery

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a novel immune mechanism that enables bacteria to survive on empty batteries, protecting them from viruses. This strategy has been conserved through billions of years of evolution and is also found in advanced species such as corals, bees, and fungi.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCell·DateAug 21, 2023

Cracking the code that relates brain and behavior in a simple animal

A team of scientists has developed a rigorous accounting of the neurons in the tiny brain of a humble C. elegans worm, mapping out how its brain cells encode essential behaviors such as movement and feeding. The atlas reveals the underlying logic of how the worm's brain produces a sophisticated repertoire of behaviors, even as environm...

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023

Formerly depressed patients continue to focus on negative

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that individuals with a history of depression spend more time processing negative information than positive information, putting them at risk for relapse. This bias towards negative thinking may hinder effective treatment and prevention strategies.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science·DateAug 21, 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.

Antil receives funding for workshop on digital twins

George Mason University's Harbir Antil received $99,948 from the National Science Foundation to support a workshop on mathematical opportunities in digital twins. The workshop aims to explore connections and synergies between mathematics, digital twins, and other disciplines.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateAug 21, 2023

Eye scans detect signs of Parkinson’s disease up to seven years before diagnosis

A study published in Neurology has identified markers of Parkinson's disease in eye scans, detecting the condition up to seven years before clinical presentation. Researchers used AI-powered analysis of retinal images from two large datasets to uncover subtle changes associated with Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNeurology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2023

CORRECTION: MRI scans improve prostate cancer diagnosis in screening trial

A new study found that MRI scans with prostate-specific antigen density can detect serious prostate cancers earlier, while reducing unnecessary biopsies. The REIMAGINE trial suggested that MRI could be a more reliable method of detecting potentially serious cancers early, with minimal overdiagnosis.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMJ Oncology·DateAug 21, 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.

Intermittent fasting improves Alzheimer’s pathology

A new study by UC San Diego researchers shows that time-restricted feeding can improve memory and reduce amyloid protein accumulation in mice with Alzheimer's disease. This approach may provide a simple and accessible way to correct circadian disruptions, which are the leading cause of nursing home placement.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Metabolism·DateAug 21, 2023

Climate win-win: study quantifies benefits of enhanced weathering

A new study quantifies the climate benefits of enhanced weathering, applying ground-up silicate rock to Midwestern farm fields to capture significant amounts of carbon dioxide. The method reduced net carbon loss to the atmosphere by 42% in maize plots and more than doubled carbon storage in miscanthus plots.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateAug 21, 2023

Artificial intelligence beyond the clinic

AI is changing the way scientists discover and design drugs, predicting molecular interactions and protein folding with unprecedented speed and accuracy. AI also has the potential to safeguard nuclear reactors, synthesize novel materials, and enhance scientific understanding autonomously.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 21, 2023

Ringing protons give insight into early universe

Researchers explore nucleon resonances, gaining insight into early universe's chaotic state. The experiment provides new information on the 3D structure of resonating protons and neutrons.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 21, 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.

Few children – especially those with safety-net insurance – get vision checked at checkups

A new study found that fewer than a third of children have had their vision checked in the past year, with uninsured and public-insured kids having lower rates than privately insured peers. The disparity in screening rates is linked to disparities in primary care visits focused on prevention and early detection.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2023

Some experts believe that routine mask-wearing should continue in health care settings

Public health experts recommend continuing routine mask-wearing in healthcare settings to protect vulnerable patients and staff from COVID-19. The authors argue that while severe cases have decreased, asymptomatic spread remains a threat, particularly among high-risk patients and healthcare workers who may not be aware they are infected.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 21, 2023

Nobel-winning bodily ‘pressure sensors’ filmed for first time at Imperial

Imperial researchers have imaged Piezo1 channels in human cells and organs, revealing their role in regulating blood pressure, respiration, bladder control, and the immune system. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of their role in fundamental physiological processes and potentially new drug targets for diseases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023

REBURN: A new tool to model wildfires in the Pacific Northwest and beyond

A new modeling tool called REBURN can simulate large forest landscapes and wildfire dynamics under different management strategies. The tool shows that setting prescribed burns and allowing smaller wildfires to burn can yield more varied and resilient forests over time.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFire Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023
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.

AI to predict critical care for patients with COVID-19

Researchers developed a deep-learning model to assess CXR images for probable COVID-19 severity. The model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.78 when predicting intensive care need within 24 hours.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateAug 21, 2023

Move over lithium-ion: Zinc-air batteries a cheaper and safer alternative

A new study by Edith Cowan University has discovered zinc-air batteries as a superior alternative to lithium-ion, offering low costs, environmental benefits, and high theoretical energy density. The breakthrough redesigns the batteries using natural resources like zinc from Australia and air, enhancing their viability for sustainable e...

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEcoMat·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 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.

It all depends on the genetic diversity

Researchers found that genetically modified tobacco mutants, impaired in their defenses, outperformed wild-type plants in years with low herbivore pressure. The mutants' prioritization of growth and reproduction over defense allowed them to thrive in environments with limited insect damage.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2023