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Science News Archive August 2023 - Page 2


Page 2 of 38

Scientists unpick how lung cells induce immune response to influenza

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have made significant discoveries on how lung cells respond to influenza viruses, identifying two key molecular pathways that trigger the release of cytokines and cell death. These findings hold promise for treating people affected by such viruses.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournaliScience·DateAug 31, 2023

Control of behavioral decisions is similar in insects and mammals

Researchers found that insects like American cockroaches use the mushroom body to encode behavioral decision-making based on sensory information. The study challenges the prevailing view of insect cognition, suggesting a more complex brain function than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 31, 2023

HKUMed uncovers a novel intercellular interplay mediated by small extracellular vesicles that opens up promising therapeutic possibilities for liver cancer

Researchers at HKUMed uncovered a novel intercellular interplay between tumour cells and endothelial cells initiated by sEV-vWF, facilitating liver cancer development and metastasis. The study suggests a potential therapeutic approach by blocking sEV-mediated tumour-endothelial communication.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 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.

Breakthrough: Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

Scientists have developed a new approach to study molecular behavior in confined spaces, allowing for real-time tracking of individual molecules within nanofluidic structures. This breakthrough enables the use of single-photon emitters as nanoscale probes, providing unprecedented insights into molecular properties and behaviors.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023

Using artificial methods for growing crops could help solve global food security

A new study from the University of Surrey found that artificial methods for growing lettuce produce twice the amount of the crop as traditional field-based methods. This leads to increased yields with CEA systems producing double the yields compared to field-based agriculture, and up to 300% faster production rates in summer periods.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPlants·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 31, 2023

Largest genetic study of epilepsy to date provides new insights on why epilepsy develops and potential treatments

A massive genetic study has identified specific DNA changes that increase the risk of developing epilepsy. The research found 26 distinct areas in our DNA involved in epilepsy and proposed alternative drugs targeting these genes. The findings may inform better diagnosis, classification, and treatment strategies for epilepsy.

SourceRCSI·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 31, 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.

New blood test for noncoding RNA significantly improves cancer detection

A novel liquid biopsy technology developed by UCSC Assistant Professor Daniel Kim's lab leverages RNA 'dark matter' to enhance cancer diagnosis. The test detects both protein-coding and repetitive noncoding RNAs in the blood, showing improved sensitivity for early-stage cancer detection.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 31, 2023

Observation of nonlinear disclination states

Researchers have experimentally observed nonlinear photonic disclination states in waveguide arrays, which can enhance nonlinear effects and enable stable lasing. These findings may lead to new ideas for developing compact optical functional devices.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 31, 2023

Antioxidants stimulate blood flow in tumors

Researchers found that antioxidants activate a mechanism forming new blood vessels in tumor cells, which can help them grow and spread. The study suggests that dietary supplements containing antioxidants may accelerate tumour growth and metastasis in cancer patients.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

A global observatory to monitor Earth's biodiversity

A new global observatory is needed to guide conservation efforts due to unprecedented biodiversity loss. The Global Biodiversity Observing System (GBIOS) aims to combine technology and data from around the world to foster collaboration and share urgently needed data.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateAug 31, 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.

Infrared avalanche photodiodes from bulk to 2D materials

Researchers have developed infrared avalanche photodiodes using bulk and 2D materials, offering improved detection efficiency and flexibility in heterostructure design. The devices exhibit exceptional capabilities such as mechanical flexibility and strong light-matter coupling.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 31, 2023

Exciting the brain could be key to boosting maths learning, says new study

Researchers used electrical noise stimulation to improve mathematical skills in participants with lower brain excitability, but found no benefits for those with high excitement levels. The study suggests that this non-invasive technique may be more effective for individuals who need extra stimulation to learn.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 31, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

CityU researchers develop ultra-sensitive photoacoustic microscopy for wide biomedical application potential

The research team created a multi-spectral, super-low-dose photoacoustic microscopy system with improved sensitivity, enabling new applications and clinical translation. The system achieved up to capillary-level or sub-cellular resolution at greater depths than traditional optical microscopy methods.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

Striking gold with molecular mystery solution for potential clean energy

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a molecular mechanism that enables efficient hydrogen spillover, which could lead to the development of new clean energy technologies. The breakthrough provides insight into how hydrogen activation and storage can be achieved without significant energy losses.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

Redo transcatheter aortic valve replacement proven effective, safe

A novel study published in The Lancet finds that redo TAVR with balloon-expandable valves is both safe and effective for select patients who require a repeat procedure. The study, led by Cedars-Sinai, showed no difference in death or stroke rates between redo and first-time TAVR at 30-day and one-year marks.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 31, 2023

Hunting for supermassive black holes in the early universe

A team of researchers used the Subaru Telescope to discover 162 quasars in the early universe, including 22 that lived less than 800 million years old. The observation provides insights into the origin of supermassive black holes and their relationship with galaxies.

SourceEhime University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 31, 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.

Sepsis – as common as cancer, as deadly as a heart attack

A recent study reveals sepsis is as prevalent as cancer, with a staggering 20% of cases resulting in death within three months. The researchers advocate for enhanced diagnostic methods and increased public awareness to address the growing epidemic.

SourceLund University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 31, 2023

Student engagement improves calculus class outcomes among undergraduates

A randomized trial involving 811 undergraduate students found that collaborative learning and student engagement significantly improved calculus concept understanding and grades. The study, conducted over three semesters, used an engagement model that cultivates mathematical habits of mind, resulting in a 11% increase in pass rates.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 31, 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.

An ‘introspective’ AI finds diversity improves performance

A new study by North Carolina State University found that artificial intelligence performs better when it chooses diversity over lack of diversity. The AI was able to increase its accuracy up to 10 times more than conventional AI in solving complicated problems.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 31, 2023

Study: ‘Suicidal’ mechanism discovered in ion channel receptors enables the sensing of heat and pain

University at Buffalo researchers have unraveled the complex biological phenomena underlying human temperature and pain sensitivity. They found a previously unknown 'suicidal' reaction in ion channel receptors that enables them to sense heat and pain, leading to potential breakthroughs in pain management.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 31, 2023

New project to make data curation accessible

A new project by JooYoung Seo at the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences aims to make data curation more accessible for everyone, regardless of abilities. The three-year grant will connect multimodal data representation with day-to-day reproducible workflows, enriching understanding and offering multiple perspectives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateAug 31, 2023

Radiologists must monitor novel Alzheimer’s treatment side effect

A new article published in RadioGraphics warns of a potential side effect of novel Alzheimer's treatments: amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). ARIA can cause swelling or bleeding in the brain and may be asymptomatic. Radiologists must monitor for ARIA to plan image monitoring per established guidelines.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiographics·DateAug 31, 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.

Two out of three volcanoes are little-known. How to predict their eruptions?

A UNIGE team has developed a method to rapidly obtain valuable information about the structure of volcanoes. By analyzing three key parameters: height, rock thickness, and chemical composition of magma, scientists can identify the active volcanoes most likely to produce large-scale eruptions.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGeology·TypeNews article·DateAug 31, 2023

How does “MAD” accretion form around a black hole?

Researchers discovered magnetic field transport in accretion flow and MAD formation near a black hole, resolving long-standing mysteries. The study reveals the first direct observational evidence for a magnetically arrested disk (MAD) through multi-wavelength observations.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateAug 31, 2023

Food supplementation with coconut oil can cause obesity, study shows

Researchers at State University of Campinas found that coconut oil supplementation led to significant alterations in food intake, weight gain, and anxious behavior in mice. The study suggests that long-term consumption of coconut oil can contribute to the development of obesity and associated comorbidities.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·DateAug 31, 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.

Climate shifts set stage for surge in agricultural flash droughts, warns new study

Agricultural flash droughts are anticipated to become more frequent due to climate shifts, driven by changes in temperature, relative humidity, and soil moisture levels. Hot spots for flash drought development have been identified in Europe, South America, and southern Africa.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 31, 2023

Do ‘forever chemicals’ increase breast cancer risk?

Researchers at UMass Amherst are investigating the connection between PFAS chemicals and breast cancer. They will examine data from postmenopausal women to determine if PFAS concentrations are associated with less breast tissue involution, which may increase breast cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 31, 2023

How little things can reduce hip fractures

A new Australian study found that implementing simple bone-strengthening strategies throughout the community can lead to a substantial decrease in hip fractures. The study analyzed data from over 3000 individuals aged 60+ and showed a 45% decline in hip fractures despite only a 3% increase in bone mineral density.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 31, 2023

Analog and digital: The best of both worlds in one energy-efficient system

Researchers at EPFL developed a novel system integrating 2D semiconductors and ferroelectric materials to create faster, more efficient electronics with brain-inspired operations. The technology enables significant energy reduction and advanced functionalities, including synaptic neuron function within the same device.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Electronics·DateAug 31, 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.

Evolving chemical system changes its environment

Researchers from the University of Groningen created a synthetic system that exhibits eco-evolutionary dynamics, where replicators adapt to their environment and undergo natural selection. The system consists of two different ring sizes that compete for a common building block, with one replicator emerging as dominant in certain enviro...

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

Geisel School of Medicine receives $16.2 million grant to study healthcare inequity in Alzheimer’s disease

A team of researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine has been awarded a $16.2 million grant to study inequities in healthcare for adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, with a focus on racialized and marginalized populations. The five-year renewal grant will explore how intersecting identities affect treatment...

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·DateAug 31, 2023

New odor map helps match perceptions of smells with their chemical structure

Researchers have developed a Principal Odor Map (POM) that models the connections between an odorant's chemical structure and its perceptual property. The map performs as well as trained human sniffers in describing odor quality, enabling the prediction of odor intensity and similarity.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 31, 2023

Single-dose psilocybin treatment for major depressive disorder

A randomized clinical trial of psilocybin treatment found a clinically significant sustained reduction in depressive symptoms and functional disability. The study's findings support the potential of psilocybin as a novel intervention for major depressive disorder when administered with psychological support.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 31, 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.

New grant to optimize gut microbes, boost health benefits of broccoli

Researchers at the University of Illinois are exploring how gut microbe communities impact broccoli's health benefits. They plan to identify which microbes maximize the benefits and develop custom probiotics to help people with lower-efficiency microbial communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateAug 31, 2023

Genomic model suggests population decline in human ancestors

A genomic model by Wangjie Hu and colleagues reveals a severe population bottleneck in human ancestors between 800,000 and 900,000 years ago, with only 1280 breeding individuals surviving. The decline coincided with climate changes, droughts, and glaciations, resulting in the loss of 98.7% of the ancestral population.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 31, 2023

Sylvester researchers help identify mechanisms by which multiple myeloma escapes targeted immunotherapy

Researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine identified distinct genomic events responsible for resistance to anti-BCMA and anti-GPRC5D immunotherapies in multiple myeloma. Mutations in the extracellular domain of BCMA impede T-cell binding without affecting protein expression or downstream signaling.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 31, 2023

Illuminating new horizons: Navigating nonlinear scattering with precision

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a new scattering matrix method that can sculpt light output with minimal optimization time. The method offers unparalleled nonlinear scattered light control, enabling high-resolution scanning microscopy and particle trapping through dense, scattering media.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateAug 31, 2023

Large proportion of Michigan’s C. jejuni infections are caused by antibiotic resistant strains

Researchers at Michigan State University have found that over half of Campylobacter jejuni infections in Michigan are caused by antibiotic-resistant strains, which can lead to severe complications and death. The study's findings highlight the importance of food hygiene and safety, particularly in rural areas where exposure to animals a...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMicrobial Genomics·DateAug 31, 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.

Growing triple-decker hybrid crystals for lasers

By controlling the arrangement of multiple layers within crystals, researchers can tune the materials' optoelectronic properties and emit light of specific energies. This technique has significant implications for applications such as LEDs, solar cells, and lasers.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

Assessing the mechanisms for liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis development is driven by various factors, including metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. CD8+ T cells play a significant role in activating hepatic stellate cells, which produce scar tissue.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateAug 31, 2023

Study connects greenhouse gas emissions to polar bear population declines, enabling greater protections under Endangered Species Act

A new study from the University of Washington and Polar Bears International reveals a direct link between cumulative greenhouse gas emissions and polar bear demographic changes. The study shows that reducing greenhouse gas emissions can help protect polar bears, with implications beyond just this species.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 31, 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.

People who are in good shape take fewer mental-health related medication

Research based on the Trøndelag Health Study found that people in good physical shape fill fewer prescriptions for anxiety and depression medications. The study suggests that improving physical fitness can help prevent anxiety and depression, with men experiencing greater benefits from exercise than women.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 31, 2023

Nearly half of dog owners are hesitant to vaccinate their pets

A new study found that nearly half of dog owners in the US hold negative views about vaccinating their pets, citing safety and efficacy concerns. This hesitancy is linked to public mistrust in human vaccines during the pandemic, posing serious public health implications for both animals and humans.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalVaccine·TypeSurvey·DateAug 31, 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.

Researchers predict film scores by the activity of facial muscles

A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that the activity of zygomaticus major, heart rate variability, and EEG indicators can predict film scores. The researchers used a machine learning model to analyze physiological data from 21 participants who watched short films and rated them on a scale from 1 to 10.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 31, 2023