Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive December 2023


Page 1 of 29

Revolutionary nanodrones enable targeted cancer treatment

Researchers have developed nanodrones that target and eliminate cancer cells by recruiting natural killer cells to tumor sites. The study offers a potential solution for intractable types of cancers, with promising results in suppressing tumor growth without causing side effects.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNano Today·DateDec 29, 2023

USTC develops a new deep-learning-based analysis toolkit for spatial transcriptomics

A new toolkit, SPACEL, has been developed to analyze spatial transcriptomics data by leveraging deep learning. The toolkit consists of three modules: Spoint, Splane, and Scube, which perform cell type deconvolution, identify spatial domains, and reconstruct three-dimensional tissue structures, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 31, 2023

Uncovering How Tiny Plastics Threaten Our Soil and Health

Researchers investigated tiny plastics' impact on soil microbes and antibiotic resistance, revealing significant effects of nanoplastics. The study emphasizes the need to understand these impacts and reduce plastic pollution to protect environmental and public health.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateDec 30, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Breakthrough in organic semiconductor synthesis paves the way for advanced electronic devices

Researchers at UNIST have achieved a significant breakthrough in organic semiconductor synthesis by synthesizing a novel molecule called BNBN anthracene. This derivative exhibits unique properties, including precise modulation of electronic properties without structural changes.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 29, 2023

Novel solution for Pichia pastoris enzyme production platform

Researchers developed a novel solution for Pichia pastoris enzyme production, utilizing cyanobacterial biomass to support efficient and sustainable industrial processes. The study reveals the potential of cyanobacterial biorefineries to generate high-performing enzyme-producing strains.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 29, 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.

Extracellular RNAs are identified as a new type of signalling molecules: RNAkines

Extracellular RNAs have been found to play a significant role in intercellular communications, signaling homeostatic changes between origin and recipient cells. The term RNAkine has been proposed for these extracellular ncRNAs, highlighting their unique regulatory scale in biological processes.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalTrends in Endocrinology and Metabolism·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 29, 2023

Advances and challenges in semantic communications: A systematic review

Modern semantic communication technology has been developed to utilize natural redundancy in information transmission, enabling source compression and channel transmission optimization. This technology has potential applications in emerging fields like Intellicise networks and the metaverse.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Open·DateDec 29, 2023

In coastal communities, sea level rise may leave some isolated

A new study reveals that accelerating sea level rise will exacerbate existing social inequality in coastal areas, with minority populations facing the most severe burdens. Rising sea levels disrupt transportation networks and roads, leading to increased isolation and reduced access to essential services.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 29, 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.

Breakthrough in hydrate-based desalination technique unveiled

A new method for desalinating seawater using hydrate-based desalination technology has been developed, offering a low-energy solution for producing freshwater. The research team calculated optimal temperatures for enhanced efficiency, with maximum water yields reaching up to 67% in certain brine concentrations.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalWater Research·DateDec 28, 2023

New perspectives on treating gallbladder inflammation

Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, discovered that ischaemic cholecystitis is more common in critically ill patients due to poor blood perfusion. The study also found that the gallbladder receives its blood supply from a terminal artery, making it susceptible to ischaemia.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateDec 28, 2023

Can we trust students to collect data ready to use in scientific research?

A study found that 64% of students did not engage in problematic behaviors, while 26% let participants take part despite knowing the hypothesis. Supervisors underestimated the prevalence of certain behaviors, highlighting the need for improved communication and Open Science education.

SourceThe Polish Association of Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological Bulletin·DateDec 28, 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.

Further evidence for quark-matter cores in massive neutron stars

A new study places the likelihood of massive neutron stars having deconfined quark matter at 80-90%. This is made possible through Bayesian statistical inference and massive supercomputer runs. The research has implications for our understanding of particle and nuclear physics, as well as astrophysics.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 28, 2023

New concepts and recommendations in Chinese expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of coronary microvascular diseases

The Chinese expert consensus on CMVD diagnosis and treatment emphasizes standardized methods, six areas for classification, and recommendations for non-invasive diagnostic techniques. The consensus also highlights the need for further research into the pathogenesis of CMVD and its impact on cardiovascular events.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 28, 2023

Medicaid coverage of physical, behavioral health together does not improve access, care

A new study led by Oregon Health & Science University found that integrating physical and behavioral health services in Medicaid managed care did not lead to improved access or outcomes for patients. Despite the expectation that such integration would drive positive changes, the research revealed no statistically significant improvemen...

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 28, 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.

One’s trash is another’s treasure: How landfills support Andean condors

A new study reveals that landfills in Chile's Loma Los Colorados host the largest known aggregation of Andean Condors. The birds' numbers are linked to food availability in the surrounding landscape and fluctuate with livestock movements. Landfill management is crucial to support condor conservation.

SourceRaptor Research Foundation·JournalJournal of Raptor Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 28, 2023

Piezo composites with carbon fibers for motion sensors

Researchers at Tohoku University have engineered a novel device combining piezoelectric composites with carbon fibers, transforming kinetic energy into electricity for efficient motion sensing. The new device has been tested to withstand over 1000 stretches and surpasses other materials in terms of energy output density.

SourceTohoku University·JournalSmall·DateDec 28, 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.

Scientists discover new way to identify liquid water on exoplanets

Researchers have devised a new method to identify habitable planets and potentially inhabited planets by comparing atmospheric CO2 levels, which suggests the presence of liquid water. This signature can be detected with current telescopes, providing a path to identify life on exoplanets.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Astronomy·DateDec 28, 2023

Post–COVID-19 condition in children 6 and 12 months after infection

A study of Canadian pediatric emergency departments found few children developed post-COVID-19 condition after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with overall quality of life not differing from uninfected peers. Despite increased chronic symptoms, most children recovered without long-term effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 28, 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.

Developing nanocatalysts to overcome limitations of water electrolysis technology

A team of researchers at KIST has developed a nanocatalyst that can withstand high temperatures above 600 degrees Celsius, enabling the efficient production of green hydrogen. The new nanocatalyst suppresses harmful compounds that cause degradation, resulting in improved performance and stability for water electrolysis cells.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 28, 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.

Cadmium and particulate matter toxicity

Exposure to different types of particulate matter induces varying levels of gene expression and cell morphology changes in lung epithelial cells. Cadmium is found to be at least partially responsible for the differences in toxicity between mixes.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 28, 2023

Blood poisoning keeping many people out of work

Research found that nearly four out of ten sepsis patients are still out of work two years after contracting the illness. Younger individuals and those with fewer chronic diagnoses were more likely to return to work.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCritical Care·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 28, 2023

Revolutionary breakthrough in nitrile activation unveils promising pathway for anticancer precursor synthesis

Researchers have developed a novel method to produce a selective anticancer precursor substance. The synthesis involves the reaction of metal-active oxygen species with nitrile, utilizing cost-effective metals at lower temperatures. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities in developing innovative drugs against cancer.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJACS Au·DateDec 28, 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.

Oral peptides: A new era in drug development

Researchers have developed a new method to generate cyclic peptides that can target diseases and be administered orally, overcoming challenges in protein binding. The approach enables high-throughput screening and has shown substantial bioavailability in rats, opening possibilities for treating various diseases.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 28, 2023

AI offers promise for earlier and more accurate HCC diagnosis

Recent advancements in AI, particularly deep learning and neural networks, offer significant potential for improving HCC diagnosis. Early detection of HCC is crucial, as curative treatments like surgery and liver transplant are only possible in the early stages.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateDec 28, 2023

New research suggests ‘religiosity’ can help Black teenagers avoid delinquent behavior

A recent study by Case Western Reserve University researchers found that Black teenagers who are more involved in religious activities are less likely to engage in delinquent behavior. The study suggests that religiosity acts as a protective factor for positive behavioral outcomes.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Religion and Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 27, 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.

Global warming intensifies typhoon-induced extreme precipitation over East Asia

Research using a high-resolution climate model found that global warming amplifies the strength of typhoons in East Asia, leading to increased intense rainfall and powerful storms. The study suggests that continued escalation of global warming will result in stronger typhoons and more extensive occurrences of extreme precipitation events.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateDec 27, 2023

Benzodiazepine use during pregnancy and risk of miscarriage

A nationwide case-time-control study found an association between benzodiazepine use during pregnancy and an increased risk of miscarriage. The results suggest that healthcare professionals should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of using benzodiazepines to treat psychiatric and sleep disorders in pregnant women.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateDec 27, 2023

Electric light transmits data 100 times faster than Wi-Fi

Researchers have developed a novel light source that minimizes interference zones, enabling stable and accurate information transmission. The technology utilizes conventional lighting systems, such as LEDs, to facilitate the simultaneous transmission of large amounts of data.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 27, 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.

Artificial intelligence as therapeutic support

Researchers developed an AI system that analyzed video recordings from therapy sessions with patients with borderline personality pathology. The system accurately detected the emotional states of patients, including fleeting micro-expressions. It also identified a predictor for therapy success: 'social' smiling at the start of a session.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalPsychopathology·DateDec 27, 2023

Virtual care works best when patients see their own family doctor, study finds

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients who received virtual care from their own family doctor were less likely to visit the emergency department within seven days. In contrast, those receiving virtual care from an outside physician were 66% more likely to do so.

SourceInstitute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 2023

Study identifies 'visual system' protein for circadian rhythm stability

A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified teneurin-3 as a key protein for stabilizing the body's circadian rhythms. The protein helps wire the brain during neural development to allow for stable responses to light changes, reducing the impact of disruptions on sleep and other cycles.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateDec 27, 2023

Cerebral small vessel disease: predictive for intracranial hemorrhage and probably for extracranial bleeding during antithrombotic therapy

A study found that cerebral small vessel disease is a predictor for major bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage and extracranial bleeding, in patients taking antithrombotic agents. The risk of bleeding complications increased significantly with higher cerebral SVD scores.

SourceNational Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateDec 27, 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.

NREL research quantifies losses from cardboard, paper waste

New analysis by NREL researchers estimates that 56% of paper and cardboard waste is landfilled, contributing to energy and resource losses. The study highlights opportunities for diversion and recovery of technical and economic value from these materials.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalWaste Management Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 27, 2023

Reducing PM2.5 disparity in China: Progress and challenges

A study published in Eco-Environment & Health found that China's PM2.5 pollution disparity decreased over time, with cities initially worsening air quality before improving as economic development increased. The research highlights the need for region-specific policies to address environmental disparities and promote health equity.

SourceNanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, MEE·JournalEco-Environment & Health·DateDec 27, 2023

Artificial intelligence lowers the barrier to ultrasound brain disease treatment

A research team developed a real-time acoustic simulation technology using generative AI models to predict and correct distortion of ultrasound waves caused by skulls. This technology reduced calculation time from 14 seconds to 0.1 seconds, improving the accuracy and safety of focused ultrasound brain disease treatment.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNeuroImage·DateDec 27, 2023

Social media platforms generate billions in annual ad revenue from US youth

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health estimates that social media platforms generated nearly $11 billion in ad revenue from U.S.-based users younger than 18 in 2022. The study found that YouTube derived the greatest ad revenue from users under 18, followed by Instagram and Facebook.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 27, 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.

New reptile on the block: A new iguana species discovered in China

A new iguana species has been discovered in southern China and northern Vietnam, characterized by its orange tongue. The species, Calotes wangi, is found in subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests and tropical monsoon forests, and is estimated to be non-threatened for now due to its widespread distribution.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 27, 2023

Low-carbohydrate diets emphasizing healthy, plant-based sources associated with slower long-term weight gain

A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that low-carbohydrate diets rich in plant-based proteins and fats, along with healthy carbohydrates, are linked to slower long-term weight gain. Diets high in animal proteins and unhealthy carbohydrates, on the other hand, are associated with greater weight gain.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 2023

Infants pay the price when parents battle food insecurity and benefits red tape

Researchers analyzed data from over 1,500 infants, revealing a correlation between reports of food insecurity and difficulties maintaining benefits, leading to behavioral dysfunction. The study emphasizes the importance of early intervention and highlights the role of pediatricians in connecting families with support programs.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 27, 2023

One-pot fermentative growth of predatory bacteria

Researchers at UNIST developed a novel one-pot process for growing Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, a predatory bacterium with potential as 'living antibiotics'. This approach eliminated the need for multiple vessels and reduced growth time by over 50%, enabling large-scale cultivation without compromising efficacy.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 27, 2023
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.