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Science News for December 15, 2023


Microbiome insights found in poop help predict infections in liver transplant patients

Researchers at University of Chicago Medical Center discovered a correlation between gut microbiome composition and postoperative infections in liver transplant patients. The study found that metabolites in fecal samples could predict infection risk with high accuracy, providing a potential diagnostic tool.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2023

Deadly chicken disease: ancient DNA reveals evolution of virulence

A team of scientists has decoded the evolution of Marek's Disease Virus, a fatal disease in chickens, using ancient DNA from up to 1,000-year-old chicken bones. The study found that the virus was already widely distributed over 1,000 years ago and became increasingly aggressive due to global chicken farming and vaccine use.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience·DateDec 15, 2023

From PIC to probe

A team of researchers at Ghent University and imec developed a silicon photonic temperature sensor that measures up to 180°C. The sensor was realized in the framework of the European SEER project, where partners focus on integrating optical sensors in manufacturing routines for composite parts.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateDec 15, 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.

Toward more precise and flexible targeted spectroscopy measurements in the retina

Researchers develop a versatile imaging system for targeted spectroscopy in the eye fundus, allowing for continuous color imaging and spectral measurements. The system enables users to select targets and move them to any location within the eye fundus region without realignment or fixation changes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateDec 15, 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.

Navigating climate challenges: UVA engineers and environmental scientists aid Virginia’s eastern shore

A team of UVA civil and environmental engineers and environmental scientists have developed a web-based decision-support tool, called the Climate Equity Atlas, to help residents deal with the challenges caused by climate change. The tool combines historical environmental data and socioeconomic data to create a sophisticated predictive ...

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 15, 2023

Revolutionizing forestry: 'CountShoots' unveils advanced UAV and AI techniques for precise slash pine shoot counting

A new study introduces the Slash Pine Shoot Counting Network (SPSC-net) using a feature pyramid module for accurate new shoot detection in slash pines. SPSC-net outperforms other models like YOLOX and Efficientnet, achieving the lowest MSE and MAE in density regression.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Parents underestimate the importance of guided play in education, finds US study

A recent US study found that parents overestimate the value of free play in children's learning, while undervaluing guided play. Guided play is more effective for teaching skills like mathematics, language, and STEM subjects. By educating parents on this approach, they can create engaging 'learning' moments during everyday activities.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Developmental Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2023

Study shows exposure to household chemicals can lower odds of getting pregnant

A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to phthalates can lower the odds of getting pregnant, but not lead to pregnancy loss. The researchers also discovered associations between preconception phthalate exposure and changes in women's reproductive hormones, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel therapeutic target overcomes resistance to radiation therapy

Researchers discovered a novel therapeutic target BAMBI that suppresses immune cells, reducing the effectiveness of radiation therapy and inducing therapy resistance in cancer patients. BAMBI's expression is associated with improved survival rates, suggesting it as a promising approach to overcome radiation therapy resistance.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Unstable ‘fluttering’ predicts aortic aneurysm

Researchers developed a physics-based metric to predict aortic aneurysm development, measuring 'fluttering' in blood vessels. The 'flutter instability parameter' forecasted abnormal growth three years prior to occurrence with 98% accuracy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 15, 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.

Revolutionary seaweed and carbonated water based hydrogel for treating skin wounds

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a novel, low-cost hydrogel using seaweed extract that prevents wound expansion and promotes healing. The hydrogel demonstrates significantly lower adhesion and swelling compared to conventional hydrogels, making it an excellent alternative for treating skin wounds.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

New method paves the way for new antibiotics

Researchers at NTNU have developed a new method to study how bacterial signaling proteins react to treatment, paving the way for effective killing of MRSA. The method has shown a combination of two substances kills MRSA more effectively than when used separately.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

A mathematical framework for evo-devo dynamics

A mathematical framework for evo-devo dynamics integrates age progression, explicit development, and evolutionary dynamics to describe the evolution of developmental phenotypes. The framework recovers evolutionary dynamic equations in gradient form, showing that genotypic and phenotypic evolution must be followed simultaneously.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalTheoretical Population Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2023

UMSOM researchers discover first ever link between hemoglobin-like protein and normal heart development

Researchers found that cytoglobin, a protein similar to hemoglobin, plays a vital role in the correct left-right pattern of the heart and other asymmetric organs. The study's findings could lead to new therapeutic interventions for rare birth defects affecting cilia function.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023
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.

A new tool to better model future wildfire impacts in the United States

Researchers at Ohio State University are testing the use of Synthetic Aperture Radar to help with wildfire detection and improve first responders' ability to predict and respond to deadly forest fires. The new tool has potential for tracking wildfires from start to finish, monitoring soil moisture, and discerning flame-prone areas.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 15, 2023

Pesticides and adjuvants disrupt honey bee’s sense of smell

Researchers found that pesticide-adjuvant combinations used in almond orchards can interfere with honey bee communication. The study suggests that these chemicals can alter the antennal responses to brood and alarm pheromones, potentially disrupting colony function.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Blood testing identifies biomarkers of suicidal thoughts

A UC San Diego study found biomarkers in blood that can help identify individuals at high risk of becoming suicidal, offering a new approach to personalize mental health care. The researchers also discovered sex-based differences in how depression impacts cell metabolism and identified potential targets for future drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateDec 15, 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.

Prone to abandoning New Year’s resolutions? Bayes’ research suggests blaming money worries rather than being time-poor

Research by Dr Janina Steinmetz found that people are more likely to see others as having good self-control if they blame a lack of money rather than time for abandoning New Year's resolutions. Studies involving around 1,200 participants showed that excusing financial constraints leads to better perceptions of self-control.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalEuropean Journal of Social Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2023

Coevolution helps Santa's reindeer feast after flight

Researchers discovered that reindeer's vision evolved to spot Cladonia rangiferina, a type of lichen, during winter. This adaptation allows them to conserve energy by finding food from a distance, making it easier to survive in cold environments. The study provides new insights into the extraordinary visual system of reindeer.

SourceDartmouth College·Journali-Perception·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 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.

Outsize benefit seen in trial of drug for kidney disease

A clinical trial found that an experimental drug, BI 690517, reduced albuminuria in 70% of patients when paired with a standard-care medication. The study also showed that the combination of the two drugs mitigated the risk of hyperkalemia.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 15, 2023

Less social media makes you happier and more efficient at work

A study found that cutting daily social media use by 30 minutes per day improves job satisfaction, mental health, and reduces stress. Participants who reduced their social media time reported feeling less overworked, more committed to their jobs, and experiencing decreased Fear of Missing Out.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBehaviour and Information Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Positive tipping points must be triggered to solve climate crisis

A recent study published in One Earth suggests that triggering positive tipping points is crucial for mitigating the effects of climate change. The research highlights examples like Norway's rapid transition to electric vehicles as evidence of human systems exhibiting positive tipping points, which can help achieve decarbonisation goals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalOne Earth·DateDec 15, 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.

Exploring the effects of vascularization strategies on brain organoids

A study by Waseda University explores the effects of different vascularization strategies on brain organoids, improving cell differentiation and transcriptome profiles. Vascularized cerebral organoids exhibit a gene expression profile closer to fetal human brains than non-vascularized ones.

SourceWaseda University·JournalBMC Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Trip or treat?

Scientists at Medical College of Wisconsin create biased agonists that reduce hallucinogenic effects while preserving therapeutic potential. These compounds, designed to selectively activate serotonin receptors, show promise in treating depression and other mental health conditions.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Stalled progress toward eliminating child marriage in India

Child marriage declined nationally in India, but one in five girls and nearly one in six boys remain married as children. The practice has become more prevalent in some states/union territories, with a significant increase observed between 2016 and 2021.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 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.

Wnt pathway dysfunction influences colorectal cancer response to immunotherapy

Researchers found that Wnt signaling pathway dysfunction can lead to increased immune infiltration and activation, resulting in a heightened responsiveness to immunotherapy in colorectal cancer patients with mismatch repair deficiency. This study suggests a potential new strategy for treating MSI-positive CRC patients.

SourceChongqing Medical University·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateDec 15, 2023

Study identifies Florida’s potential invasive species threats

A team of experts led by Deah Lieurance evaluated 460 species and ranked them according to their likelihood of invasion and potential ecological, economical, and human health impacts. The top 40 species pose the greatest threat to Florida's natural areas, with some, like the crab-eating macaque, already established in the state.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalEcosphere·DateDec 15, 2023

Bringing quantum computing to light

Researchers explore quantum optical technology to solve scalability and accuracy issues in quantum computing, aiming to develop new drugs faster and more efficiently. Photon-based systems offer a solution by reducing physical components, increasing opportunities for scaling and stability.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 15, 2023

Rembrandt broke new ground with lead-based impregnation of canvas for The Night Watch

Researchers discovered a previously unknown layer of dispersed lead in the ground layer of Rembrandt's The Night Watch, using advanced analytical techniques. This finding sheds light on the artist's inventive approach to painting and highlights his efforts to improve the durability of his masterpieces.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 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.

Scientists measure the distance to stars by their music

Researchers from EPFL and University of Bologna used asteroseismology to calculate star distances, providing accurate measurements and validating Gaia's parallax data. The study analyzed over 12,000 oscillating red giant stars, measuring their vibrations and oscillations to determine stellar properties.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2023

IU researchers fill the final gaps in the Arabidopsis genome sequence and gain insights into gene regulatory mechanisms relevant to humans

Researchers at Indiana University have completed the final gaps in the Arabidopsis genome sequence, revealing how ribosomal RNA genes are organized and regulated. The study found that one NOR is nearly completely silenced in growing plants, while the other accounts for almost all ribosomal RNA gene activity in its central region.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 15, 2023

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in menstrual products including tampons, pads, and liners

A study by George Mason University researchers found endocrine-disrupting chemicals in menstrual products, including phthalates and parabens. The review of 15 papers revealed a lack of research on newer products like menstrual cups and discs, highlighting the need for further investigation into their potential health impacts.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 15, 2023

Guiding principles to address bias in healthcare algorithms

A technical expert panel provides guiding principles to avoid algorithmic bias in healthcare, aiming to reduce healthcare disparities and promote health equity. The principles aim to identify biases before implementation and mitigate their impact through conscious decisions by developers, users, and regulators.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 15, 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.

Childhood sedentariness causes elevated cholesterol but light physical activity may neutralize it

A new study found that increased childhood sedentary time significantly increases cholesterol levels in young adulthood. However, light physical activity (LPA) has been shown to completely reverse this effect, while moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) may also reduce cholesterol levels but with diminished impact due to body f...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2023

Pollinators make a big impact on edamame marketability

A recent UMD study reveals that cross-pollination significantly improves the quality and quantity of soybean pods, with open-pollinated flowers producing more grade-A beans. The research also suggests that a greater biodiversity near fields can lead to increased yields by attracting beneficial pollinators.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Pollination Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

Electronic pathways may enhance collective atomic vibrations’ magnetism

Researchers discovered that chiral phonons, which exhibit circular motion, interact differently than linear phonons and have a larger magnetic moment in topological materials. This finding enhances thermal conductivity and opens new possibilities for advanced devices and applications.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 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.

Online food shopping exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic. Can it catch on with bodegas?

The study found that bodega owners and customers face challenges such as high prices for fresh produce, lack of digital literacy, and mistrust of online ordering. Despite these obstacles, researchers believe that implementing online grocery shopping in bodegas can greatly benefit communities by increasing access to healthy food options.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2023

Computational model captures the elusive transition states of chemical reactions

A team of MIT researchers has created a computational model that can calculate the structures of transition states in chemical reactions much more quickly than traditional methods. The new model uses machine learning and can generate accurate predictions for thousands of reactions, enabling chemists to design new catalysts and fuels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 15, 2023

Scientists reveal the molecular structure of a complex bacteriophage

Researchers have solved the molecular structure of a complete tailed virus with a flexible tail at unprecedented detail. This discovery has significant implications for phage therapies and the development of alternative treatments to antibiotics.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 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.

Acid sensor and calcium store discovered in plants

Researchers have identified a previously unknown endogenous acid sensor in plant cells that responds to changes in pH levels. The acid sensor triggers the release of calcium ions from an endoplasmic reticulum, which activates cellular responses to external stimuli such as infections or drought.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2023

North America’s first people may have arrived by sea ice highway

Researchers propose that early Americans used a 'sea ice highway' to migrate into North America along the Pacific coastline, traveling on winter sea ice between 24,500-22,000 years ago and 16,400-14,800 years ago. This theory provides a new framework for understanding human migration without a land bridge or easy ocean travel.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateDec 15, 2023

Racial equity in living donor kidney transplant centers

A study of 57,000 adults reveals racial disparities in access to living donor kidney transplants, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing systemic inequalities in transplant programs and centers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 15, 2023

US adults eat a meal’s worth of calories of snacks in a day

A new study suggests that US adults consume almost a quarter of their daily calories in snacks, often more than they do at breakfast, yet these snacks offer little nutritional value. Researchers analyzed data from over 20,000 people and found that snacks accounted for between 19.5% to 22.4% of total energy intake.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2023

Mineral coatings could enable shelf-stable mRNA therapies

Researchers have developed a mineral coating that maintains mRNA activity for up to six months at room temperature. This breakthrough enables the storage of mRNA therapeutics like COVID-19 vaccines on medical shelves, bridging the gap between rich and poor communities.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateDec 15, 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.

Third Pole environment researchers study the risk of glacial lake Outbursts in the Third Pole

A study published in Nature Communications reveals the Third Pole is vulnerable to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) due to climate change, with 1,499 lakes at high risk. The research estimates that 190,000 lives are directly exposed to GLOF paths and $55 billion worth of infrastructure is threatened.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2023