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Science News Archive August 2023 - Page 37


Page 37 of 38

A boost in dopamine during adolescence permanently amplifies dopamine function, impulsivity, and aggression in mice

Researchers found that blocking dopamine transporters during mid-adolescence increases adult aggression, impulsivity, and the behavioral response to amphetamine in mice. Artificially stimulating dopaminergic neurons also exacerbated impulsive behavior in tasks. The study suggests potential harm from stimulant exposure in healthy teens ...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 2, 2023

An ancient grain unlocks genetic secrets for making bread wheat more resilient

A KAUST-led team has compiled the first complete genome map of einkorn, an ancient grain that could help develop bread wheat varieties with enhanced disease resistance and improved hardiness. The study reveals a complex evolutionary history of wheat species, including gene flow between einkorn and wild cousins.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 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.

Exploiting nonlinear scattering medium for optical encryption, computation, and machine learning

Researchers have discovered a way to utilize nonlinear scattering media for optical computing and machine learning. They created a novel theoretical framework involving third-order tensors, which can represent the complex relationships between input and output signals. This breakthrough has potential applications in real-world settings...

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

A novel laser slicing technique for diamond semiconductors

Researchers from Chiba University developed a novel laser-based technique to slice diamonds into thin wafers, paving the way for their adoption as next-generation semiconductor materials. The technique uses short laser pulses to transform diamond into amorphous carbon, reducing density and crack formation.

SourceChiba University·JournalDiamond and Related Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

Training on LSA lifeboat operation using Mixed Reality

The SafePASS MR Training Tool uses Mixed Reality to simulate LSA lifeboat operations, providing crew members with hands-on practice and real-time feedback. The application has been successfully tested and validated in lab and real-world environments, demonstrating improved training outcomes and enhanced awareness of equipment usage.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateAug 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.

Where Black adolescents live affects their mental health

A new study found that neighborhood poverty and community violence negatively affect Black American adolescents' mental health. The review examined four aspects of the neighborhood environment: trust and safety, built environment, exposure to community violence, and neighborhood disadvantage.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalYouth & Society·DateAug 1, 2023

Scientists develop method to predict the spread of armed conflicts

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub developed a mathematical method to analyze armed conflict data, identifying causal links between battles and predicting future conflicts. The approach, inspired by physics and biophysics, reveals how violence spreads like avalanches across Africa and can be applied to other armed conflicts.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 1, 2023

Predicting heart failure with longitudinal urine patterns and its changing

Researchers found that stable, long-term elevation in urinary albumin excretion is associated with a high risk of new-onset heart failure and mortality. Persistently high levels were linked to older patients and those with conditions like diabetes and previous heart attacks.

SourceOsaka University·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeObservational study·DateAug 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.

Nature-based solutions can help tackle climate change and food security, but communities outside Europe are missing out

New research from the University of Surrey found that over 60% of nature-based solutions (NBS) are located in Europe, with poor adoption in other regions. The study analyzed over 500 NBS case studies and found that green solutions, hybrid solutions, and addressing water-based hazards were common uses of NBS.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateAug 1, 2023

New study sheds light on the gating mechanism of ion channels

Researchers created a smart model system to visualize the gating of individual subunits in Kir2 potassium channels. The study reveals that each subunit gating transition leads to conductance level changes, suggesting all subunits must move together for a fully open channel.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 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.

Royal Ontario Museum researchers identify oldest known species of swimming jellyfish

Researchers at the Royal Ontario Museum discovered the oldest known species of swimming jellyfish, Burgessomedusa phasmiformis, in exceptionally well-preserved fossils from the Burgess Shale. This finding highlights the complexity of the Cambrian food chain and challenges previous understanding of predation.

SourceRoyal Ontario Museum·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateAug 1, 2023

Male moth ‘aphrodisiac’ revealed

Researchers at North Carolina State University identified a specific blend of pheromone chemicals used by male moths during courtship, including an aphrodisiac called methyl salicylate. Female moths can recognize this chemical through two smell receptors, and its presence in males' hairpencils is linked to mating success.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

The cost of climate change: 2°C global warming target is not economically reasonable unless we make major changes

A new study by Dr Taikan Oki estimates the total cost of climate change between 2010 and 2099 to be $46-230 trillion US dollars. The research team found that reducing climate change often incurs costs similar to or exceeding financial benefits, highlighting the need for prioritizing biodiversity and health factors.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateAug 1, 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.

Taking time to seal a deal reveals insights into online buyers and sellers

Researchers found that people consider response times when evaluating moral character and transactional situations, revealing insights into online buyers and sellers. By understanding response time patterns, savvy buyers and sellers can manipulate them to negotiate more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

Early-stage cancer diagnoses decreased sharply in the U.S. during first year of COVID-19 pandemic; underserved greatly affected

A new study found a significant decline in early-stage cancer diagnoses in the US during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the largest decrease seen among stage I cancers. The study suggests that these declines may be due to decreased screening services and delayed medical care during the pandemic.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateAug 1, 2023

Defending our turf

Scientists have identified a promising biological solution to control dollar spot, a devastating disease on golf courses and other turfgrass areas. The beneficial microbe UD1022, patented by the University of Delaware, shows potential in preventing the fungus' growth and may even trigger systemic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiological Control·DateAug 1, 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.

An average 1.2% a year decline in MMR vaccine coverage between 2006 and 2020 has left approximately half of Brazil’s municipalities below the 95% coverage target and potentially vulnerable to future outbreaks

A nationwide ecological study in Brazil found a significant decline in MMR vaccine coverage between 2006 and 2020, with approximately half of municipalities falling short of the 95% target. This decline may leave these areas vulnerable to future outbreaks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateAug 1, 2023

University of Minnesota-led study shows Hmong stroke patients are younger, other unique stroke patterns

A University of Minnesota-led study identified higher incidence of brain hemorrhage, hardening of the arteries, and small vessel disease in Hmong stroke patients. Risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes are prevalent among this community.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2023

Scientists uncover a surprising connection between number theory and evolutionary genetics

Researchers discovered a deep connection between the sums-of-digits function from number theory and phenotype mutational robustness in genetics. The maximum robustness is proportional to the logarithm of the fraction of all possible sequences that map to a phenotype, with a correction given by the sums of digits function s_k(n).

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 1, 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.

Old mattresses made new: Simple chemistry can recycle polyurethane

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a simple chemistry method to recycle polyurethane foam from old mattresses, extracting its main components and reusing them as raw materials. The process has been repeated several times, replacing up to 64% of the mattress without impairing quality.

SourceAarhus University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 1, 2023

Study sheds new light on how animals navigate their environment

Researchers developed a novel maze design that allows for the tracking of mice's navigational strategies, revealing three primary approaches: random, spatial, and serial search. The study provides valuable insights into how animals select these strategies based on environmental factors.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateAug 1, 2023

DNA decodes the dining preferences of the shell-shucking whitespotted eagle ray

Researchers at Florida Atlantic University uncover the finer-scale feeding patterns of the whitespotted eagle ray, revealing a significantly broader diet than previously described, with high proportions of cockles and wedge shells. The study's findings suggest that these rays can play a facilitative role in reducing predation threats f...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFishes·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2023

Decades of research have left knowledge gaps about cells that regulate the immune system: Purdue and NIH

Researchers at Purdue University and NIH have identified 14 understudied T-reg proteins with molecular roles in disease onset, offering new avenues for understanding autoimmune diseases and cancer. Studying these proteins could lead to the development of cell-based therapies to modify their functions.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Reviews Immunology·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 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.

Research team identifies human odorant receptor for horse stable odor

A research team has discovered the human odorant receptor for para-cresol, a compound with a strong horse stable-like odor. The OR9Q2 receptor is highly selective and responds to physiologically relevant concentrations of para-cresol, as well as a structurally similar compound.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

Pecans give obesity and diabetes a slim chance

A new study published in MDPI suggests that pecans have anti-inflammatory properties and can increase energy expenditure, reducing the risk of obesity and diabetes. The research found that pecans modulate adipose tissue lipolysis and mitochondrial oxidative metabolism in liver and skeletal muscle.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalNutrients·DateAug 1, 2023

Illegal shooting kills most birds found dead near power lines

A recent study reveals that illegal bird shootings are now the leading cause of death for birds found dead near power lines in the western United States. Researchers analyzed 410 carcasses collected over four years and found that 66% died from being shot, surpassing electrocution as a leading cause.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2023

Closure of Pittsburgh coal-processing plant tied to local health gains

A study found that the closure of a Pittsburgh coal-processing plant led to immediate declines in fossil fuel-related air pollutants, resulting in near-instant decreases in local heart-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations for cardiovascular diseases. The impact persisted through at least December 2018.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Research Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 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.

Bird study shows Europe’s nature in ‘dire straits’

A recent study by BirdLife International reveals that nearly four in 10 of Europe's bird species are now of conservation concern, including 14% of global concern. The continent's nature is facing an urgent need for comprehensive restoration legislation to halt and reverse the decline in threatened bird species.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalBird Conservation International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2023

AI-supported mammography screening is found to be safe

Researchers at Lund University found AI-supported mammography screening to be safe and effective, detecting 20% more cancers than standard double reading without increasing false positives. The study also reduced radiologists' screen-reading workload by 44%, saving approximately five months of time.

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateAug 1, 2023

Developing a nonflammable electrolyte to prevent thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. Nonfluorinated, nonflammable electrolytes present a viable route to achieving thermally stable high-performance batteries.

Researchers have developed a nonflammable electrolyte that can be used in lithium-ion batteries without catching fire at room temperature. The new electrolyte, bis(2-methoxyethyl) carbonate (BMEC), has a higher flash point and improved ionic conductivity than traditional electrolytes.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateAug 1, 2023

A floating sponge could help remove harmful algal blooms

Researchers have developed a new method to remove harmful algal blooms by coating a floating sponge in charcoal-like powder. The technique successfully destroyed over 85% of algal cells, including toxin-producing cyanobacteria, without generating unwanted products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateAug 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.

Study shows social media usage negatively impacts schoolwork of students

Research shows that increased social media use leads to decreased academic achievement in early adolescents and young adults. The study, led by University of Delaware's Mellissa Gordon, found that 93-97% of 13-17 year-olds report using at least one social media platform daily.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalYouth & Society·TypeCase study·DateAug 1, 2023

GI symptoms persist in older female colorectal cancer survivors

A new study found that 81% of women report persistent GI symptoms years after diagnosis, with abdominal bloating and gas being the most common. The analysis also showed that severe GI symptoms are linked to poor quality of life, social activities, and body image satisfaction.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 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.

Millions of long-term smokers have lung disease that defies diagnosis

A new study by UCSF found that half of participants with extensive tobacco exposure had persistently high respiratory symptoms, yet performed well in COPD tests. The study highlights a gap in effective care for tobacco-exposed individuals and emphasizes the need for broader definition of smoking-related lung disease.

SourceUniversity of California San Francisco Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2023

Links between attention and conscious perception highlighted in frontoparietal networks

A recent study revealed that attention plays a crucial role in shaping our conscious experience of the world. Researchers found that manipulating attention can modify an individual's ability to consciously perceive visual stimuli, highlighting the intricate relationship between attention and conscious perception. By using advanced neur...

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 1, 2023

Earth’s most ancient impact craters are disappearing

Scientists have found evidence of impacts over 3.5 billion years ago but can't find the actual craters. Erosion and geological processes have erased mega-craters, leaving only a few remnants. Researchers studied the Vredefort crater, one of the oldest known impact structures, and found that even large craters can be swept away by erosion.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·DateAug 1, 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.

Multicyclic molecular wheels with polymer potential

Scientists have successfully created macro-rotaxanes with multicyclic wheels, which hold long molecular chains together to modify the properties of soft polymers. These new structures offer improved damping efficiency and potential applications in next-generation polymers and molecular computing.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Tennis anyone? Researchers serve up advances in developing motion simulation technology’s next generation

A machine learning system capable of learning diverse tennis skills from broadcast video footage has been created by a research team led by Simon Fraser University's Jason Peng. The system can generate long-lasting matches with realistic racket and ball dynamics between two physically simulated characters.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 1, 2023

Scientists develop breath test that rapidly detects COVID-19 virus

Researchers at Washington University have developed a breath test that can quickly identify those infected with COVID-19, providing accurate results in under a minute. The device uses an electrochemical biosensor to detect the virus, which has potential applications for use in doctors' offices and public events.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2023

Results of large pragmatic trial will help guide treatment of malignant bowel obstruction in patients with advanced cancer

A large clinical trial found that surgery does not increase the number of days patients with advanced cancer are alive and out of the hospital, but improves symptoms and quality of life. Patients who underwent surgery reported fewer bowel-related symptoms after leaving the hospital.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 1, 2023