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Science News for December 12, 2023


Study highlights benefits of user-generated content to digital platform

A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that nonmonetary incentives boosted coverage of local news on digital platforms. As citizen journalists reduced their output, professional journalists increased their production, leading to a decline in overall content and viewership.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManagement Science·DateDec 12, 2023

Wildfires also impact aquatic ecosystems

Research from the University of California San Diego finds that wildfires transform lakes and aquatic ecosystems, storing more carbon and emitting less CO2. The study suggests a shift in the role of aquatic systems in the global carbon cycle, with potential consequences for aquatic health and fisheries.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How a drought led to the rise of skateboarding in 1970s California

A cross-disciplinary study from the University of Cambridge reveals that a drought in southern California in the mid-1970s led to the explosive rise of professional skateboarding culture. The authors argue that small environmental changes can have profound effects on human behavior, stimulating cultural and technical innovation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 12, 2023

Development of nanoparticle-based drug delivery system for inflammation treatment and diagnosis

Researchers have designed a nanoparticle-based drug delivery system to target inflammation, addressing issues with conventional anti-inflammatory drugs. The system utilizes targeting moieties to enrich nanoparticles in inflamed tissues, achieving enhanced efficacy.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Biomaterials and Applications·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 12, 2023

Genetic safeguard protects some considered high risk for kidney disease

A new study found that a genetic variant in the APOL1 gene reduces the risk of kidney disease in high-risk individuals, particularly those with African ancestry. The discovery may lead to reclassification of patients and expansion of potential kidney donors.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

Daily singing workout keeps songbird males attractive

Male songbirds need daily singing to exercise their vocal muscles and produce attractive songs. Regular practice is necessary to maintain social bonds and attract females, which can also hear the difference in a male's voice after exercise.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Scientists find new, better way to develop vaccines

Scientists have developed a new system to display epitopes in mammal cells for immunization studies, potentially speeding up the immunization process. This method allows for targeted immune responses against specific viral proteins without the need to purify antigens.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Twenty-year study confirms California forests are healthier when burned — or thinned

A 20-year study confirms that prescribed burning and restoration thinning can reduce wildfire risk and boost forest health. The treatments improve tree resilience to drought and bark beetles without harming biodiversity. Combining thinning with fire produces the best results, making forests more resilient to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEcological Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

Mammogram rates increase when patients schedule themselves

Researchers found that patients who scheduled their own mammograms through an online patient portal had a 13 percentage point increase in screening completions. This simple intervention doubled the number of mammogram completions, resulting in approximately 4,500 more people getting screened.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2023

In a new light – new approach overcomes long-standing limitations in optics

A multi-institutional research team, including Osaka University, has developed a new approach to enhance the efficiency of Mie scattering, which could lead to significant advancements in meta-photonics and applications like all-optical transistors. The researchers found that misaligning the incident laser on a nanometer scale can induc...

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

COVID-19 symptoms and economic hardship among US families

A study found that persistent COVID-19 symptoms and previous severe cases were associated with increased odds of pandemic-related economic hardship. Families with lower incomes before the pandemic were disproportionately affected, experiencing more employment disruptions and earnings losses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 12, 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.

USTC develops chiral boryl radical catalysts in asymmetric catalysis

Researchers at USTC developed novel chiral boryl radical catalysts for asymmetric catalysis, achieving high reaction efficiency and selectivity. The catalysts exhibit exceptional capabilities in constructing chiral functional molecules through a precision-controlled catalytic cycle.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2023

Key to predicting heat events in Central Europe

A GEOMAR study found that low North Atlantic sea surface temperatures are responsible for heat events on land. The researchers discovered a link between cold ocean temperatures and European heat waves, which contributes to the formation of high pressure systems and clear skies.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalTellus A Dynamic Meteorology and Oceanography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 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.

Free electric vehicle charging at work? It’s possible with optimum solar

Researchers propose optimising campus solar PV system to support over 200 electric vehicles with free or nominal charging facilities. This could reduce annual electricity costs by more than 9% while helping lower peak power demand by at least 12%.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalRenewable Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2023

New computer tools can reconstruct 3D brain from biobank photos

Researchers developed a suite of free tools for analyzing vast amounts of brain dissection photographs, enabling the extraction and integration of quantitative information. The tools allow for the reconstruction of 3D brain images from biobank photos, providing valuable insights into neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateDec 12, 2023

This Japanese 'dragon' terrorized ancient seas

A newly described mosasaur, the Wakayama Soryu (blue dragon), had a distinctive shark-like dorsal fin and massive flippers that defied classification. The specimen, discovered in Japan, is the most complete mosasaur skeleton found in the country, with features that challenge current understanding of its swimming abilities.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 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.

MIT researchers observe a hallmark quantum behavior in bouncing droplets

Researchers at MIT recreate a 'quantum bomb tester' using bouncing droplets, finding that the droplet's classical dynamics give rise to similar statistical behavior as predicted by quantum mechanics. The study bridges the gap between two realities, offering insight into quantum behavior from a local realist perspective.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review A·DateDec 12, 2023

The silent killer gets louder as high blood pressure risks trend upward

Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that people admitted to the hospital for acute hypertension are increasingly likely to need urgent kidney dialysis or die in the hospital. The study's lead author notes that patients with certain traits, such as being younger, male, or overweight, are high-risk groups.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalHypertension·DateDec 12, 2023

Artificial intelligence for safer bike helmets and better shoe soles

Researchers developed AI tools to systematically explore metamaterials' design and mechanical properties, predicting optimal structures for desired deformation responses. The tools can generate and optimize new structures using large datasets and variational autoencoders.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 2023

Black Medicare patients less likely to be referred for home health care

A study published in Medical Care reveals that Black Medicare beneficiaries are less likely to be referred for home health care, even when they have similar readiness for discharge scores. The disparity appears greatest among those with low readiness scores, raising concerns about systemic injustice in healthcare settings.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateDec 12, 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.

First discovery of a tyrannosaur skeleton with well-preserved stomach contents

A breakthrough discovery has found a well-preserved juvenile Gorgosaurus skeleton with stomach contents that provide insight into the diet and ecological niches of Tyrannosauridae as they grow. The findings suggest that juvenile tyrannosaurs primarily preyed on small dinosaurs, differing from their adult counterparts.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 12, 2023

Melbourne-made COVID-19 vaccines show robust boosting potential

Two Melbourne-made COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated strong boosting capabilities against SARS-CoV-2 variants in a Phase 1 clinical trial. The vaccines focus the immune response on the receptor binding domain, potentially providing a more efficient approach to boost immunity.

SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 12, 2023

Study paves way for development of advanced quantum networks

Researchers at UNICAMP developed a new technology to create bridges between superconducting circuits and optical fibers, enabling efficient transmission of information in the electromagnetic spectrum. This breakthrough paves the way for the development of advanced quantum networks with potential applications in computing and communicat...

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 12, 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.

Cervical cancer deaths could be more than halved by WHO screening guidelines

Studies published in Nature Medicine show that implementing updated WHO screening guidelines could reduce cervical cancer death rates by over 63% in low-to-middle-income countries. Women with HIV have a sixfold risk of developing cervical cancer, and primary HPV testing can save up to 38 women's lives for every 71 screened.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 12, 2023

Potential of forsythiae fructus in mitigating chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal inflammation and nausea

Researchers found that Forsythiae Fructus attenuates cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity in cells by inhibiting NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD mediated pyroptosis, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach against chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal inflammation and nausea.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Holistic Integrative Pharmacy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

New technology to assemble three-dimensional structures using gold nanoparticles confined in nanocapsules

Researchers at Toho University developed a technology to create three-dimensional structures of gold nanoparticles confined within silica nanocapsules. The assembled nanostructures exhibit new physical properties and unique optical properties, leading to the development of high-sensitivity multi-color sensors.

SourceToho University·JournalNanoscale Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Silent carriers: long-standing SARS-CoV-2 RNA in respiratory vesicles

Research reveals SARS-CoV-2 RNA presence in extracellular vesicles of patients with negative PCR tests, suggesting a potential source for recurrent infections. The discovery may aid in identifying individuals with persistent or recurrent COVID-19 infections and offer new avenues for therapeutic interventions.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalLiver Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

Civilian attacks and Ukrainian resistance

A recent survey of Ukrainian civilians found that those who have been more victimized by Russian violence are more willing to resist, particularly in military combat. The study suggests that the Russian strategy of targeting civilians is unlikely to deter Ukrainian resistance and may even strengthen it.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 12, 2023

Mental health care gaps for women veterans - report

The report found that women veterans face multiple barriers to accessing veteran-specific mental health services, including feelings of exclusion, lack of understanding by clinicians, and inadequate visibility in service branding. The study suggests improving clinician knowledge, increasing visibility of women's experiences, and provid...

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·TypeSurvey·DateDec 12, 2023

UCF researcher discovers new technique for photon detection

A new technique for photon detection has been developed by UCF researcher Debashis Chanda, offering ultra-sensitive detection at room temperature. The method uses a phase-change material to modulate the frequency of an oscillating circuit, paving the way for low-cost, high-efficiency uncooled infrared detectors and imaging systems.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Equity in cannabis research

The article proposes a way forward for cannabis research by acknowledging the history of discrimination and proposing actions to increase diversity and inclusion. The authors suggest passing equity-focused legislation, supporting scientists of color, and implementing inclusive recruitment practices.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 12, 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.

Hope for full recovery as researchers successfully regenerate thyroid glands in the spleen

A recent study published in Advanced Science has successfully regenerates thyroid glands in the spleen, restoring hormone levels and physiological homeostasis in mice with total thyroidectomy. The innovative approach leverages the spleen's unique properties to create a favorable environment for thyroid regeneration.

SourceNanjing University School of Life Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

AI screens for autism in the blink of an eye

Researchers have developed an AI-powered system to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children using a single flash of light to the eye. The system uses electroretinography (ERG) to identify specific features that classify ASD, providing a faster and more accurate method for diagnosis than existing tests.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalResearch in Autism Spectrum Disorders·TypeCase study·DateDec 12, 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.

You can always become a better reader

Girls tend to excel in reading skills compared to boys, mainly due to differences in vocabulary development and parental engagement. Boys face greater challenges in reading comprehension, particularly if they lack exposure to books and interactive conversations.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2023

Assessing loan applicants’ credit risk via smartphone activities helps improve financial inclusion and business profitability

A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that using alternative data from smartphones is more effective in improving financial inclusion (23% better) and business profitability (42% better) compared to social media data. This approach can help microloan companies adopt cost-effective solutions and offset potential economic loss.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalMIS Quarterly·DateDec 12, 2023

Caregiving can be stressful, but it could also lower risk of depression

A new study from the University of Texas at Austin found that depression in adult caregivers is mostly driven by having a loved one experiencing serious health problems. Conversely, becoming a caregiver was associated with fewer symptoms of depression. The research suggests that caregiving may have a protective effect on mental health.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAdvances in Life Course Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2023

Preapproval requirement for oral anticancer drugs may interfere with treatment

A new study from Harvard Medical School researchers found that prior authorizations for oral cancer drugs can lead to significant delays in patients' obtaining the medication, increasing the likelihood of discontinuation. The analysis of Medicare Part D claims data revealed an average delay of 10 days in refilling prescriptions after a...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 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.

Long dormant volcanoes can erupt rapidly and explosively

New research reveals signs before a volcano erupts after tens of thousands of years of dormancy, including changes in magma composition and crystal formation. The study found that water-rich recharge magmas played a key role in triggering explosive eruptions, with amphibole being a critical indicator.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalContributions to Mineralogy and Petrology·DateDec 12, 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.

New study explores ways to reduce inflammation and preserve bone health with prunes

A new study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that daily prune intake can significantly reduce inflammatory cytokines and activated monocytes in postmenopausal women. Prunes contain bioactive compounds that may act synergistically to suppress activated monocytes and their secretion of bone-resorptive inflammatory cytokines.

SourceWild Hive·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 12, 2023

Fat flies live longer on a diet at any age

Researchers found that switching fruit flies to a low-calorie diet extends their lifespan, even in old age. This study suggests that obese humans may benefit from reducing calorie intake in old age, as it can dramatically change their metabolisms and extend their lives.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

Novel early-detection method aims to stem disease spread in animal trade

Researchers have developed a noninvasive method to quickly detect the deadly fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans in shipments and captive settings. The new approach tests environmental DNA for Bsal DNA to assess the pathogen's prevalence, providing a way to make an essentially invisible pathogen visible.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateDec 12, 2023

Minor wavelength optimization causes large power improvement

Researchers developed a novel method to optimize pump wavelength, reducing ESA-induced absorption and increasing pump quantum efficiency. This approach achieved higher laser output and slope efficiency compared to conventional pumping schemes.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Drought and the rapid rise of skateboarding

A severe drought led to a surge in professional vertical skateboarding in Los Angeles, influenced by cultural, commercial, and environmental changes. The development of polyurethane wheels and sport-specific media contributed to the growth of the sport.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 12, 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.

Artificial intelligence systems excel at imitation, but not innovation

Researchers found that AI systems are skilled at solving problems by finding novel uses for everyday objects, like humans. However, they lack the ability to innovate on these ideas and often rely on statistical pattern prediction.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

A new brew: Evaluating the flavor of roasted, lab-grown coffee cells

Researchers successfully replicated some of coffee's comforting aromas and tastes by roasting lab-grown coffee cell cultures. However, further processing techniques are necessary to enhance the flavor of these alternative coffee products.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 12, 2023

Migratory bats can detect the Earth’s magnetic field

A study found that migratory bats are sensitive to the angle of magnetic inclination and use it for navigation. The soprano pipistrelle bat species calibrated its internal compass at sunset, taking into account both the horizontal component and inclination of the Earth's magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalBiology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

$7.55 million grant to take LHSC-developed technology global

Lawson Health Research Institute's AI-led technology can diagnose rare genetic diseases with a blood test, taking its development global thanks to a $7.55 million grant. The technology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by providing an accurate and non-invasive diagnostic tool for these complex diseases.

SourceLawson Health Research Institute·DateDec 12, 2023

Is age linked to the picture of the perfect partner?

A large international sample of single women aged 18-67 years was surveyed on their ideal partner characteristics, revealing links between age and preferences. Most attributes were consistently important across ages, but higher age correlated with a preference for confident partners and greater acceptance of younger partners.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalHuman Nature·TypeSurvey·DateDec 12, 2023

New test predicts risk of cognitive dysfunction in older surgery patients

A simple EEG before surgery can detect a signal of cognitive vulnerability, predicting which patients are at risk of post-operative confusion and attention problems. Researchers found that this test successfully detected disordered arousal or attention in older adults, helping identify the degree to which they'd experience problems.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·DateDec 12, 2023

New study identifies the best areas for rewilding European bison

A new study identifies the best regions for rewilding European bison, pinpointing areas where conservation efforts can be most effective. The research suggests that understanding the species' decline is crucial to ensuring long-term protection and recovery.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 12, 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.

Heavy metals in our food are most dangerous for kids

Two studies found moderate to high risk scores for cancers and non-cancer health effects associated with lead, arsenic, and cadmium exposure. Exposure to these heavy metals through contaminated food is linked to increased risks of various types of cancer, including lung, bladder, skin, and prostate cancers.

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateDec 12, 2023

MRI technology for non-invasive assessment of interstitial fluid flow

Researchers developed a non-invasive MRI technology to measure interstitial fluid flow, crucial for tumour treatment. The new method combines phase-contrast MRI with an improved stimulation echo sequence, reducing signal loss and improving detection accuracy.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalMagnetic Resonance Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Size of attainment gap between UK White and minority ethnic medical students varies by ethnicity and medical school

Researchers found that UK White and minority ethnic medical students have varying academic achievement gaps depending on their individual ethnicity and medical school attended. Minority ethnic students are more likely to be male, from deprived backgrounds, and achieve lower UK Foundation Programme scores compared to their White peers.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2023

One in three men open to having more than one partner, study shows

A new study by Swansea University found that nine percent of men and five percent of women in the UK are open to sharing a partner or being shared with someone else. This suggests a significant disparity between men's and women's attitudes towards non-monogamous relationships.

SourceSwansea University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateDec 12, 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.

Nearly 40% of Type 2 diabetes patients stop taking their second-line medication

A Northwestern University study found that nearly two-thirds of patients discontinue or change their medication within a year, highlighting the need for better understanding of barriers to treatment adherence. The high discontinuation rate for GLP-1 RAs may be due to gastrointestinal side effects.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateDec 12, 2023

Researchers develop potential vaccine against antibiotic-resistant enterococci

Scientists have created a vaccine candidate against antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus faecium using membrane vesicles, which stimulate the immune system and are stable and non-infectious. The new vaccine showed promising results in killing resistant bacteria, including those resistant to Vancomycin.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateDec 12, 2023

Cannabis exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes related to placental function

A multicenter observational cohort study found that cannabis exposure was associated with a higher risk of small-for-gestational-age birth, medically indicated preterm birth, stillbirth, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The risk was particularly pronounced among those who continued to use cannabis beyond the first trimester.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 12, 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.

Archaeologists unearth one of earliest known frame saddles

The discovery sheds light on the underappreciated role of ancient Mongolians in spreading horse riding technology, which had a profound impact on mounted warfare and culture. The saddle is believed to have originated from local craftsmen in Mongolia, who created it using birch wood and wooden nails.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAntiquity·DateDec 12, 2023

Smoking causes brain shrinkage

A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry: Global Open Science found that smoking causes brain shrinkage and increases the risk of age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Quitting smoking can prevent further loss of brain tissue, but stopping does not restore the brain to its original size.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2023

Brain dynamics of the "wave of death" highlighted for the first time

Scientists have identified key stages in the 'wave of death' - a high-amplitude wave that marks the transition to complete brain silence after oxygen deprivation. The study found that this critical event induces neuronal death throughout the cortex and can be reversible with timely resuscitation.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalNeurobiology of Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

People who see climate change as a health threat show more interest in cancer screening

A study found that individuals who perceive climate change as a health threat are more likely to endorse interest in cancer screening. Those with greater awareness of climate change impacts may also be more overall health conscious, driving their interest in preventive healthcare measures.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 2023

New 'atherosclerosis atlas' sheds light on heart attacks, strokes

Researchers at UVA Health System created an 'atlas of atherosclerosis' revealing critical processes that form harmful plaque buildup. The study provides unprecedented insights into atherosclerosis and its impact on coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateDec 12, 2023

Creating a future, together, for rare-disease research

Researchers from Osaka University developed an online space for conversation and collaboration among patients with rare diseases, family members, researchers, and former policymakers. The project identified key themes and research priorities, including financial burden, daily life impacts, anxiety, and hospital visits, providing a uniq...

SourceOsaka University·JournalResearch Involvement and Engagement·DateDec 12, 2023

Cannabis exposure linked to higher risk of unhealthy pregnancy outcomes

A large study of over 9,000 pregnant people found that cannabis exposure during pregnancy is associated with a composite measure of unhealthy pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight. Higher levels of cannabis exposure were also linked to higher risks of complications.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateDec 12, 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.

Patients can interrupt treatment of immune-supressing medicines for two weeks in order to boost immunity provided by COVID-19 booster vaccine, finds major study

A major study found that patients with inflammatory conditions can boost their antibody response to a COVID-19 booster vaccination by interrupting their treatment for two weeks. The improved protection lasts for six months, and patients who interrupted treatment reported more flare-ups but most were self-managed.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalThe Lancet Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 12, 2023

Protein study could one day advance Parkinson’s, breast cancer care

A study published in Molecular Cell describes how bacteria build a form of ubiquitin that helps cells communicate. The research sheds light on how different enzymes impact this protein during infection, providing an important first step towards understanding its role in diseases like Parkinson's and breast cancer.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Research paves the way for predicting disease progression for incurable cancer

A new study has identified protein expression patterns that can predict the progression of follicular lymphoma, an incurable type of cancer. By analyzing tumour samples from patients, researchers have found a correlation between specific proteins and disease transformation, enabling early detection of high-risk patients.

SourceAarhus University·JournalBlood Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

Can AI be too good to use?

A new paper examines the challenges of adopting AI in the food industry, citing liability risks and potential costs, and proposes a temporary on-ramp to allow companies to trial AI technology while exploring benefits and mitigation strategies.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalFrontiers in Artificial Intelligence·TypeSurvey·DateDec 12, 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.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Stability in physical and political science

Researchers Kenneth J. Breslauer and George W. Breslauer investigate the concept of stability in both physical and political science, finding parallels between kinetic trapping and social metastability. They propose applying thermodynamic principles to analyze socio-political systems, revealing a continuity between nature and society.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 12, 2023

Understudied cell in the brain could be key to treating glioblastoma

A new study found that perivascular fibroblasts support the creation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, allowing glioblastoma to evade the immune system. The fibroblasts may also promote stem-like cancer cells that rarely divide, leading to poor survival outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·Journalnpj Genomic Medicine·DateDec 12, 2023

For metastatic prostate cancer, immunotherapy may have unexpected potential

A new study suggests that metastatic prostate tumors contain a rich variety of immune cells that can be roused by immunotherapy into attacking the cancer. Combining hormone therapy with immunotherapy further stimulates anti-tumor immune cells, potentially improving patient outcomes.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 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.

Black patients less likely to receive lifesaving stroke treatments

Research from the University of Georgia found that Black patients are significantly less likely to receive tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), leading to longer hospital stays and potentially poorer health outcomes. The study highlights racial disparities in stroke care and calls for increased educat...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateDec 12, 2023

Saliva: a means to detect pain in people with dementia

A study found that saliva biomarkers sTNFR2 and sIgA can effectively detect pain in people with dementia, providing an alternative to invasive methods. The researchers discovered a decrease in sTNFR2 levels and an increase in sIgA in patients with dementia compared to a control group.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalEuropean Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2023

New AI-powered algorithm could better assess people’s risk of common heart condition

Researchers have developed an AI-powered algorithm that can detect the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib) with high accuracy, even in people with infrequent AFib episodes. This new tool has the potential to reduce the incidence of stroke and heart failure by identifying patients at increased risk and guiding targeted interventions.

SourceScripps Research Institute·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateDec 12, 2023