Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive August 2023 - Page 24


Page 24 of 38

China’s oldest water pipes were a communal effort

A new study reveals a 4,000-year-old system of ceramic water pipes in China demonstrates that neolithic people were capable of complex engineering feats without a centralised state authority. The discovery challenges earlier understanding in archaeological fields.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Water·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 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.

New model for the drinking water market in Jordan

A new computer model quantifies the black market for drinking water in Jordan, revealing that 91% of traded water is extracted illegally. The study predicts a significant increase in household dependence on private water suppliers due to decreasing public water supply infrastructure.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 14, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pandemic weight gain in kids influenced by family income

A study found that adolescents from low-income families gained more weight during the pandemic, with girls experiencing accelerated weight gain. The researchers tracked over 400 low-income Hispanic families and compared their weight gain to a cohort of wealthier families.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 2023

PSMA PET/CT waives the need for pre-imaging biopsy in elderly patients

A study found that PSMA PET/CT can accurately diagnose advanced prostate cancer in elderly patients without the need for a biopsy. The procedure reduced the number of biopsies and associated complications, while providing clinical suspicion-based staging data.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 14, 2023

Inoue receives funding for Mason CARES Plus

Megumi Inoue received funding for Mason CARES Plus to assess the impact of Stress Busting Program (SBP) and Music and Memory program on reducing care partner stress. The study aims to identify effective strategies for improving care partner engagement with M&M program.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateAug 14, 2023

Chromium replaces rare and expensive noble metals

Chemists at the University of Basel have developed chromium compounds that can replace osmium and ruthenium in luminescent materials and catalysts. The new materials are nearly as effective as some osmium compounds and are about 20,000 times more abundant and cheaper than their noble metal counterparts.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 14, 2023

What’s your masculine style: Neo-traditional, egalitarian or progressive?

A study of 92 straight men found that neo-traditional, egalitarian, and progressive masculinities have different benefits and challenges for mental well-being. Men who promote gender equity report improved mental health, while those who challenge these ideals may face isolation or criticism.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateAug 14, 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.

Self-driving cars can make traffic slower

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that connected vehicles improve travel time through intersections, but automated vehicles without connectivity actually increase wait times. The study suggests that incorporating vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication is crucial for optimizing traffic flow.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Social determinants of health contribute to higher CVD mortality rates in Black persons

A large US study found that social determinants of health are a major factor contributing to higher cardiovascular disease mortality rates in Black individuals compared to Whites. The study analyzed data from over 50,000 adults and found significant associations between social factors such as unemployment and food insecurity with CVD m...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 14, 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.

Can AI help hospitals spot patients in need of extra non-medical assistance?

A new study shows that a rule-based natural language processing tool successfully identified patients with unstable access to transportation, food insecurity, social isolation, financial problems, and signs of abuse or exploitation. The tool performed better than deep learning algorithms in identifying these social determinants of health.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Services Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 14, 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.

Scientists outline a new strategy for understanding the origin of life

Scientists propose a new method to study the origin of life by merging laboratory experiments and evolutionary biology. Electron transport chains, crucial for energy metabolism in all living organisms, are identified as a key area of study.

SourceOberlin College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 14, 2023

Bear-human coexistence rethought

A new study by Paula Mayer proposes a practical tool for identifying areas of high human-bear conflict in the Abruzzo region. The model considers factors such as habitat suitability, migration corridors, and human-made food resources to inform local measures promoting coexistence.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal for Nature Conservation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 14, 2023

Stem-cell derived organoids secrete tooth enamel proteins

Researchers successfully created stem-cell derived organoids from human stem cells that secrete three essential enamel proteins. These proteins form a matrix that undergoes mineralization to create a hardened enamel structure. The breakthrough offers hope for developing novel treatments to repair and regenerate teeth.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

The anatomy of memory: new mnemomic networks discovered in the brain

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences have identified distinct cortical networks associated with subregions of the human medial temporal lobe. The study used precision neuroimaging to explore the distributed anatomy of the MTL, overcoming previous challenges in studying this region.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences·JournalNeuron·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 14, 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.

Making plant-based meat alternatives more palatable

Researchers at the University of Leeds have created plant protein microgels that transform dry plant proteins into hydrated ones, mimicking the sensation of fat. The breakthrough could lead to the development of healthier, palatable, and sustainable plant-based foods.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Neutrons seek to stop cancer from hijacking a metabolic highway

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing new cancer treatments that target the metabolic pathway hijacked by cancer cells. Using neutrons and x-rays, researchers mapped the enzyme structure to design roadblocks along the pathway.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateAug 14, 2023

Transforming flies into degradable plastics

Researchers have successfully transformed black soldier fly carcasses into degradable plastics through a process of extraction and purification. The resulting bioplastics can absorb water and potentially address drought situations, making them a promising solution for sustainable agriculture.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 14, 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.

Source of hidden consciousness in ‘comatose’ brain injury patients found

Researchers have identified patterns of brain injury that underlie hidden consciousness, a phenomenon where brain-injured patients appear unconscious despite having some level of awareness. The study found that all patients with hidden consciousness had intact brain structures related to arousal and command comprehension.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalBrain·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 2023

New directions in microbiomes

A new open-access journal, eGastroenterology, has been launched to accelerate research in gastroenterology and hepatology. The journal focuses on applying real-world data to guide clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateAug 14, 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.

Lifestyle factors in the association of shift work and depression and anxiety

A large study of 175,000 participants found that shift work significantly increases the risk of depression and anxiety. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and social connections, partially mediate this association, highlighting the need for public health interventions to promote healthy lifestyles among shift workers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 14, 2023

Study shows promise of gene therapy for alcohol use disorder

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have found that implanting a specific molecule in the brain can effectively reduce alcohol use among chronic heavy drinkers. The study showed a 90% reduction in drinking behavior in nonhuman primates, with the implanted virus permanently increasing dopamine levels and reducing cravings.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 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.

Researchers develop a unique quantum mechanical approach to determining metal ductility

Researchers developed a unique approach to predict metal ductility using quantum mechanics, filling the need for an inexpensive and efficient method. The new approach was tested on refractory multi-principal-element alloys and showed robust results, confirming its effectiveness in distinguishing between ductile and brittle materials.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalActa Materialia·DateAug 14, 2023

`Forever chemicals’? Maybe not

A proof-of-concept study reveals that 'forever chemicals' in soil from firefighting foam can be degraded through a simple and cost-effective method called ball milling. This innovative technique has the potential to revolutionize the cleanup of contaminated sites worldwide, addressing a significant environmental concern.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalEnvironmental Science Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2023

HKU Engineering team leads global collaboration for universal unit in environmental surveillance of antimicrobial resistance

The University of Hong Kong's research team has proposed a universal unit to standardize data sharing in antimicrobial resistance surveillance. This approach aims to enhance comparability across studies and facilitate globally coordinated efforts against antimicrobial resistance. The team's work has the potential to significantly chang...

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 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.

Glucagon receptor structures uncover new arrestin interaction mechanism

The study determined the cryo-electron microscopy structures of class B glucagon receptor bound to β-arrestin 1, revealing a unique tail conformation that differs from previously known arrestin-bound GPCR structures. This new mechanism may enable the development of novel biased ligands with pathway selectivity.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateAug 13, 2023

The road to the future of Li-rich solid-state battery

Researchers propose surface modification and novel structural designs to stabilize Li-rich cathodes in solid-state batteries. The review discusses potential solutions for interfacial ion and electron transfer issues.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2023

3D-printed vegan seafood could someday be what’s for dinner (video)

Researchers have developed a new approach for creating vegan seafood mimics that taste good while maintaining the healthful profile of real fish. They used 3D printing technology to create calamari rings from microalgae protein and mung bean protein, which were found to have an acceptable taste and promising texture properties.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 13, 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.

Unlocking mysteries of octopus cognition - paving the way for memory research

Researchers discovered intricate neural connections in Octopus vulgaris, a model organism for studying memory acquisition networks. The findings challenge traditional models of neural network functionality, revealing an evolutionary adaptation that underlies the octopus's unique cognitive prowess.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2023

USTC develops new catalysts for CO2 electroreduction

Researchers at USTC have developed a novel catalyst that achieves high electrochemical performance in both neutral and alkaline media. The asymmetric dinitrogen-coordinated nickel single-atomic sites enhance the intrinsic activity of the sites, resulting in a high turnover frequency of over 274,000 site−1 h−1.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2023

Mosquito hearing could be targeted by insecticides

A new study reveals that mosquitoes use a specific receptor in their ears to modulate their hearing, which is crucial for reproduction and mating. This discovery could lead to the development of novel insecticides or mating disruptors to control mosquito populations and reduce human disease.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 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.

Hidden moles in hidden holes

Scientists have identified two new mole species in eastern Turkey, belonging to the Talpa genus, which has been living undiscovered for up to 3 million years. The study, using cutting-edge DNA technology, confirms their biological distinctness from other moles in the group.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2023

Researchers reveal mechanism triggering Arctic daily warming

A new study reveals the connection between Arctic daily warming and equator region as well as Atlantic storms, shedding light on the impact of North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the phenomenon. The research provides a new perspective on weather and climate changes in the Arctic.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateAug 11, 2023

Social media use interventions alleviate symptoms of depression

A systematic review found that social media use interventions improved mental wellbeing in over a third of studies, with significant improvements in depression. Therapy-based interventions were most effective, with 83% improvement rates compared to limited or no social media use.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 11, 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.

Behind the rind: new genomic insights into watermelon evolution, quality, and resilience

Scientists at the Boyce Thompson Institute have constructed a comprehensive 'super-pangenome' for watermelon and its wild relatives, uncovering beneficial genes lost during domestication. This genetic toolkit can be used to develop varieties with enhanced yield, increased disease resistance, and improved adaptability.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2023

Playing football may increase the risk for Parkinson’s disease

Researchers found a significant link between playing tackle football and the risk of parkinsonism or PD diagnosis, even after accounting for known risk factors. Players who played at higher levels of competition experienced increased odds for having a reported diagnosis of PD.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 11, 2023

CORRECTION: Outdoor air pollution may increase non-lung cancer risk in older adults

A Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study found that chronic exposure to fine particulate air pollutants (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) increases the risk of colorectal and prostate cancers in older adults. NO2 exposure was also associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, while PM2.5 exposure had mixed results.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 11, 2023

Researchers discover quasar-driven superbubble pairs

Researchers have discovered quasar-driven superbubble pairs, providing evidence for the outflow mechanism in galaxy evolution. These pairs, which extend over 60,000 light-years, are generated by quasars driving gas into intergalactic space.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023