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Science News for December 18, 2023


Nurse aide turnover linked to scheduling decisions

Research at Washington State University found that nurse aides with more consistent schedules and co-workers had lower turnover rates. The study estimated a 1.9% reduction in turnover for each additional hour worked.

SourceWashington State University·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateDec 18, 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.

Giant bacterium uses unique processes to power itself

The giant bacterium Epulopiscium viviparus has modified its metabolism to make the most of its environment, using a rare method to produce energy and harvest nutrients from its host's gut. This unique approach allows it to thrive in extreme conditions, with similarities to how mitochondria function in more complex organisms.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2023

Trust or distrust? Neither! The right mindset for confronting disinformation

A comprehensive review challenges traditional trust and distrust mindsets, instead advocating for an alternative Cartesian mindset. This evaluative approach has shown promise in distinguishing between true and false information, reducing the propagation of disinformation.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCurrent Opinion in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

NIH researchers create genetic atlas detailing early stages of zebrafish development

A new genetic atlas details the gene expression programs that drive zebrafish development, revealing insights into human embryonic growth and the origins of diseases such as gastrointestinal disorders. The atlas provides a comprehensive resource for studying cell development and differentiation in vertebrates.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Exoplanets’climate – it takes nothing to switch from habitable to hell

Scientists simulated the runaway greenhouse effect, transforming habitable climates into hostile environments, with significant changes in atmospheric structure and cloud coverage. The study provides key insights for the search of life elsewhere, as it demonstrates a critical water vapor threshold beyond which a planet cannot cool down.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeNews article·DateDec 18, 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.

Feelings of impatience evolve over time, study says

A new study explores the intensity of impatient emotion during different phases of a waiting period. The research found that people experience the highest levels of impatience as the end of the wait approaches, driven by their desire for closure.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

Yale study finds “Forever chemicals” promote cancer migration

A Yale study finds that per- and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAS) promote cancer migration by increasing cell motility and altering metabolic profiles. The study suggests that these 'forever chemicals' could contribute to cancer metastasis in living organisms.

SourceYale University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 18, 2023

Understanding the relationship between the performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and hydrogen partial pressure

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the relationship between hydrogen partial pressure and PEMFC performance, revealing a pronounced decline in performance as hydrogen partial pressure decreased. The study aims to simplify fuel cell quality testing, cost reduction, and reduced safety requirements.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Unraveling predisposition in bilateral Wilms tumor

Researchers found that pre-zygotic germline variants and post-zygotic hypermethylation at 11p15.5 predispose patients to bilateral Wilms tumor. This study provides new insights into the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying the disease, with potential implications for treatment decisions and clinical trials.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2023

Barbie should expand her range of medical and scientific professions

A study published in The BMJ analyzed Barbie's medical and scientist dolls and found they largely depicted white, adult, female doctors with limited specialties. The research highlights the need for more diverse and accurate representations of medical professionals and scientists in toys to inspire young girls.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 18, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New method could help estimate wildlife disease spread

A new method can help estimate the prevalence of disease in free-ranging wildlife by accounting for animal clustering. This approach may reduce the number of samples needed to detect a disease. The researchers focused on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer, which tends to cluster in family groups, making this method particularly useful.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Agricultural Biological and Environmental Statistics·DateDec 18, 2023

Apes remember friends they haven’t seen for decades

Researchers found apes recognize photos of friends they haven't seen in over 25 years and respond more enthusiastically. The study demonstrates the longest-lasting social memory outside humans, suggesting a common ancestor link and potential for great ape culture evolution.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2023

ASU research reveals regions in U.S. where heat adaptation and mitigation efforts can most benefit future populations

New ASU research models the benefits of combining heat adaptation strategies with mitigation efforts to lessen extreme heat exposure in major US cities. The study finds that Northeast and Midwest regions can expect greater benefits, while Sun Belt cities face limited reductions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Cities·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 18, 2023

Pancreatic replacement therapy improves maladaptive behavior in preschool children with autism, according to research

Researchers found that pancreatic enzymatic replacement improved behavioral function in preschoolers with ASD, including reduced irritability, hyperactivity, and lethargy. The treatment had minimal side effects and demonstrated potential for addressing co-occurring maladaptive behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 18, 2023

Secret vulnerabilities of cancer’s ‘death star’ revealed

A team of researchers has identified the allosteric control sites found in the protein KRAS, providing a comprehensive map for controlling its effects. The study offers promising targets for safer and more effective drugs, with potential implications for cancer treatment.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

Few patients receive opioid agonist therapy after opioid overdose, despite benefits

Only 4.1% of hospital encounters for opioid overdoses led to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) initiation within a week of discharge from hospital, highlighting missed opportunities to prevent future mortality and morbidity related to opioid use disorder. Studies show that prompt OAT initiation in the emergency department is crucial to redu...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

Ancient Balkan genomes reveal how Slavic Europe was formed

The study of 146 ancient Balkans reveals a diverse, cosmopolitan Roman Empire with African and Eastern European immigrants. The team identified three individuals of African origin and a large demographic influx from the Anatolian Peninsula during Roman rule.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalCell·DateDec 18, 2023

Public opinion polls may not be as straightforward as you think

A new study on the role of polls in South Korea highlights the limitations of polling in a democratic society. The research finds that technology, methodology, intentions, and reporting can affect poll results, leading to a social construction of public opinion influenced by pollsters and media.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPolitics & Society·TypeSurvey·DateDec 18, 2023

Artificial intelligence can predict events in people's lives

A recent study using AI to analyze registry data on people's residence, education, income, health, and working conditions can predict life events such as personality and time of death. The model outperforms other advanced neural networks and provides precise answers despite ethical concerns about sensitive data and bias.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Computational Science·DateDec 18, 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.

Wildfires increasing across eastern U.S., new study reveals

A new study analyzing data spanning over three decades finds a concerning trend of increasing wildfires in the eastern United States. The research highlights the need for proactive forest management and individual preparedness for people living in the region, particularly in areas with the highest risk from wildfire.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 18, 2023

International recognition played a crucial role in giving Libyan political actors sovereignty, study shows

A new study reveals that international recognition played a crucial role in shaping Libya's conflict, with contact and support from other countries affecting political actors' identity, resources, and legitimacy. The study argues that non-recognition can create change and is geopolitically inevitable.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Studies Review·TypeSurvey·DateDec 18, 2023

Lexical simplification via single-word generation

A novel lexical simplification (LS) method, PaGeLS, is proposed to simplify sentences by generating substitute words without altering meaning. The method achieves state-of-the-art results, surpassing previous LS methods in candidate ranking and word substitution accuracy.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Using AI-related technologies can significantly enhance human cognition, finds new study

A new study published in Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence found that training in Interlingual Respeaking, a new practice combining human collaboration with speech recognition software, can improve language professionals' cognitive abilities. The research, conducted by the University of Surrey, showed significant enhancements in wor...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalFrontiers in Artificial Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

New possibilities for a healing toxin

PSI researchers develop antibody-like proteins that accelerate Botox's effects on nerve signals, suggesting faster pain relief. The discovery opens new options for therapeutic use of botulinum toxin A1 in treating conditions like cramping muscles and faulty nerve signals.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Researchers from NTU Singapore and National Centre for Infectious Diseases locate two compounds in blood that could identify patients at risk of severe dengue

Researchers have identified sST2 and suPAR in the blood of dengue patients, which could accurately predict patients at risk of severe dengue. The test kits would improve patient outcomes by distinguishing between non-life-threatening cases and severe dengue, requiring hospitalization.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

Doctor Who festive specials linked to lower death rates

A new Doctor Who episode aired during the festive period is associated with lower death rates in the subsequent year across the UK. The study highlights the positive effect doctors can have when working during the holiday season, suggesting that watching a doctor care for people may encourage health-seeking behavior.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 18, 2023

Out-of-hospital care digital solutions in Asia Pacific

Out-of-hospital care digital solutions offer flexible, convenient, and personalized healthcare options with higher accessibility. The integration of technologies and the health system is crucial to navigate multi-stakeholder collaboration in out-of-hospital care.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalInformatics and Health·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 18, 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.

Toothbrushing tied to lower rates of pneumonia among hospitalized patients

A new study found that daily toothbrushing among hospitalized patients is associated with lower rates of hospital-acquired pneumonia and ICU mortality. The study, which analyzed data from over 2,700 patients, also showed that toothbrushing was linked to shorter durations of mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 18, 2023

First systematic analysis of NIH finds funding gaps for TB risk factors

A systematic analysis by researchers at Boston University School of Medicine finds that funding for key TB risk factors, such as undernutrition and alcohol use, is significantly lacking. The study highlights the need for increased NIH funding to address these comorbidities and realize global TB elimination goals.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 18, 2023

Ecosystem benefits to humanity expected to decline by 9% by 2100

A study published in Nature predicts that climate change will lead to a 9% loss of ecosystem services by 2100, with the poorest 50% of countries expected to bear 90% of the damages. The study's findings highlight the importance of accounting for natural systems and human well-being within economic frameworks.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 18, 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.

AI generates proteins with exceptional binding strengths

Scientists at the University of Washington School of Medicine developed a novel protein design approach using AI, creating proteins that bind to challenging biomarkers with exceptionally high affinity and specificity. The breakthrough has implications for drug development, disease diagnosis, and environmental monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

"U.S. physical inactivity pandemic is a crisis within a crisis," experts say

A new study in The American Journal of Medicine highlights the correlation between social vulnerability and physical inactivity in the US, revealing geographic variance and disparities. Researchers stress the need for tailored health promotion campaigns and individual counseling approaches to address these disparities.

SourceElsevier·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2023

Economic complexities of forest restoration: What’s in it for landowners?

A study by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that economic solutions like cost-sharing and carbon payments can benefit landholders if the right tree species are planted on infertile soils. Annual carbon payments, in particular, made forests growing back after trees were removed financially viable.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2023

Disadvantaged children’s struggles at school have “little to do” with character, attitude or a lack of ‘growth mindset’

A global study of 240,000 students challenges the widespread policy conviction that bridging the academic gap hinges on improving socio-emotional skills. Despite high levels of socio-emotional skills among disadvantaged children, their relative underperformance at school remains largely unchanged.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalSociology of Education·DateDec 18, 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.

New strategy reveals ‘full chemical complexity’ of quantum decoherence

Researchers have developed a method to quantify the spectral density of molecules in solvent, allowing for the design of molecules with specific quantum coherence properties. This breakthrough enables the mapping of decoherence pathways in molecules, connecting chemical structure to quantum decoherence.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

For this emergent class of materials, ‘solutions are the problem’

Rice University researchers have developed a new method for making covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that could revolutionize various fields such as energy applications, semiconductor devices, and drug delivery. The fast and low-cost approach uses vapor deposition to produce ordered 2D crystalline COFs.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Viral enhancement of nanomaterial cancer sensor improves early detection

Researchers developed a novel cancer sensor using viral enhancement and nanomaterials, achieving ultra-high sensitivity in detecting breast cancer cells. The new P-DBS technology outperformed existing electrical-based sensors in terms of sensitivity and signal contrast.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalNanoscale·DateDec 18, 2023

Scientists spread festive cheer as research reveals Christmas dinner can be healthy

Researchers found that steaming Brussels sprouts retains glucosinolates, which may aid in fighting chronic conditions such as diabetes and cancer. Carrots also showed a significant reduction in developing all types of cancer with regular consumption. Potatoes are recommended for roasting as they are rich in fibre.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 18, 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.

Hospital coffee machines get a clean bill of health

A recent study suggests that hospital coffee machines are not a breeding ground for bacteria and do not pose a risk to patients. Despite being touched by multiple people, the machines were found to harbor only a few medically relevant pathogens, with most being harmless commensals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 18, 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.

Heart vest could help predict sudden cardiac death risk

A new study by UCL researchers suggests that a vest mapping the heart's electrical activity could help identify people at high risk of sudden cardiac death. The electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) vest combines signals with MRI images to generate 3D models, potentially predicting risk factors for life-threatening heart rhythms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 18, 2023

Harnessing nanotechnology to understand tumor behavior

Researchers used SERS spectroscopy to explore metabolites secreted by cancer cells, discovering a unique paracrine crosstalk that reprograms the tumor environment. This study demonstrates the potential of SERS technology for cancer metabolism research and may lead to new therapeutic strategies.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

The keto diet protects against epileptic seizures; Scientists are uncovering why

A new UCLA study found that the ketogenic diet alters key gut microbiome functions related to fatty acid oxidation and amino acid metabolism in pediatric epilepsy patients. These changes confer seizure resistance in mice when transplanted fecal matter is used, holding promise for new microbiome-based therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 18, 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.

Coral atoll islands may outpace sea-level rise with local ecological restoration, scientists say

A team of scientists suggests that coral atoll islands can adapt to sea level rise through local ecological restoration. Restoring the natural process of island growth could significantly improve the health of surrounding coral reef habitats. Funding for restoration work could empower communities to take back ownership of their futures.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 18, 2023

More parallel ‘traffic' observed in human brains than in animals

Researchers used multimodal MRI data to compare human brain communication networks with those of macaques and mice. They found that only human brains transmitted information via multiple parallel pathways, which were as unique as fingerprints and could be used to identify individuals.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 18, 2023

B cell deficient patients gain protective T cell immunity following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and infection, study finds

Researchers found that vaccinated B cell-deficient individuals have a robust T cell response to SARS-CoV-2, despite lack of anti-spike antibodies, resulting in markedly reduced rates of hospitalization and severe COVID-19. This study provides reassuring evidence for immunocompromised patients to get vaccinated.

SourceRagon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 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.

Move over dolphins. Chimps and bonobos can recognize long-lost friends and family — for decades

Researchers found that great apes and chimpanzees can recognize groupmates they haven't seen in over two decades, suggesting a shared common ancestor and potentially the longest-lasting nonhuman memory. The study uses infrared eye-tracking cameras to record participants' gazes at images of familiar and stranger bonobos or chimps.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

Memory research: Breathing in sleep impacts memory processes

Researchers have identified respiration as a potential pacemaker for brain activity patterns that reanimate memories during sleep. This finding suggests that breathing influences how memories are consolidated during rest.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2023

Gut-skin connection is key factor in atopic dermatitis, research review shows

Recent research has identified the gut-skin axis as a critical factor in atopic dermatitis, with alterations to gut microbiome composition contributing to disease severity. The review article highlights promising therapeutic approaches, including diet, probiotics, and fecal transplants.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateDec 18, 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.

“Teleporting” images across a network securely using only light

Scientists have successfully teleported the highest dimensionality of information across a network securely using only light. The research uses a nonlinear optical detector that circumvents the need for additional photons, allowing for the secure transmission of complex systems like fingerprints or faces without physical transport.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 18, 2023

First observation of how water molecules move near a metal electrode

Researchers observe changes in water molecule movement near a metal electrode depending on the magnitude and polarity of the applied voltage. The study provides crucial insights into electrochemical reactions and paves the way for designing more efficient battery technologies.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Exercise-induced Pgc-1α expression inhibits fat accumulation in aged skeletal muscles

A new study found that exercise-induced Pgc-1α expression inhibits fat accumulation in aged skeletal muscles. The researchers identified Pgc-1α as a key player in FAP regulation and suggested that its upregulation leads to increased mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, inhibiting FAP fat accumulation.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2023

Lung nodule program provides benefits patients ineligible for lung cancer screening

A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that adopting a lung nodule program can increase early lung cancer detection for patients not eligible for traditional screening. The study revealed significant differences in stage at diagnosis and overall survival rates between young, elderly, and screened cohorts.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 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.

Where to place bleeding control first aid equipment to maximize lives saved

Researchers found that bleeding control kits should be placed in two or more locations on premises, with a walking distance of under 90 seconds. Located near AEDs is more beneficial than at entrances, where they may be difficult to reach.

SourceLinköping University·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 18, 2023

"Technostress" and the role of the welfare state

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that countries with more comprehensive welfare systems experience lower levels of technostress, which is caused by technological change. This suggests that state support can mitigate the negative effects of digitalization on health and social inequality.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 18, 2023

High-temperature superconductors, with a twist?

A Harvard University research team has demonstrated a new strategy for making and manipulating cuprate superconductors, clearing a path to engineering new forms of superconductivity. The team created a high-temperature, superconducting diode made out of thin cuprate crystals using a low-temperature device fabrication method.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

Multi-site study reveals addressable socioeconomic barriers to prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects

A recent multi-center study found that nearly 80% of patients with congenital heart disease experienced at least one socioeconomic barrier to prenatal diagnosis. The most common barriers were difficulty with appointment scheduling, transportation access, and childcare. Improving paid sick leave policies may help alleviate these barriers.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalPrenatal Diagnosis·DateDec 18, 2023

Early-life diseases linked to lifelong childlessness

A study reveals a significant association between early-life diseases and the likelihood of remaining childless throughout one's life, with mental-behavioural disorders being more than half of the associated diseases.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2023

Little bacterium may make big impact on rare-earth processing

A tiny bacterium, Vibrio natriegens, has been genetically engineered to increase its ability to extract rare earth elements through biosorption, a sustainable method. This breakthrough could improve the efficiency of processing and bring rare earth element mining back to domestic productivity.

SourceCornell University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateDec 18, 2023

The future of heart health

Researchers at the University of New Mexico have developed a new vaccine that can lower LDL cholesterol levels by up to 30% and reduce the risk of heart disease. The vaccine is based on a non-infectious virus particle and has shown promising results in animal trials.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·Journalnpj Vaccines·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 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.

How effective are opioid medications for cancer pain?

A recent review of opioid medicines for cancer pain found surprisingly large gaps in evidence regarding their true benefits. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be at least as effective as some opioids for background cancer pain, offering potential alternatives to reduce dependence and waning analgesia over time.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalCA A Cancer Journal for Clinicians·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 18, 2023

Study assesses GPT-4’s potential to perpetuate racial, gender biases in clinical decision making

A team of researchers analyzed GPT-4's performance in four clinical decision support scenarios, finding that the model exaggerated known demographic prevalence differences in 89% of diseases. GPT-4 also produced significantly different responses by gender or race/ethnicity for 23% of cases, reflecting known biases in medical literature.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

Patients’ creative ideas can inform a healthcare organization’s learning and innovation

A new study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that patients generate more actionable and creative ideas when explicitly invited to share them. The research offers a rigorously tested methodology for eliciting creative ideas from patients, which can be used to improve healthcare delivery and quality improvement.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateDec 18, 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.

Single-celled protists in the guts of animals thrive without the ‘powerhouse of the cell’

A new study found that multiple members of the oxymonad lineage have lost their mitochondria, a crucial energy-producing organelle, approximately 100 million years ago. This discovery suggests that it's possible for eukaryotic organisms to thrive without mitochondria, paving the way for further research on their evolution and adaptations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

Unveiling molecular origami: A breakthrough in dynamic materials

Researchers unveiled a two-dimensional Metal Organic Framework (MOF) that showcases negative thermal expansion and unique origami tessellation patterns. The MOF's deformable net topology enables origami-like movement in response to temperature changes.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 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.

U.S. utilities on track to be 100% renewable by 2060

According to a study published in Climatic Change, US utilities are projected to decarbonize 100% by 2060, with blue states leading the way. The study found that utility companies are on track to meet or exceed state renewable energy goals and mandates, with many transitioning to renewables even without policy support.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalClimatic Change·DateDec 18, 2023

New guidelines released for practitioners treating anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis

The new guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and managing anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis in pediatric and adult patients. The guidelines emphasize the importance of patient values and preferences in arriving at optimal recommendations, reflecting advancements in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 18, 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.

Spike in dermatology visits for skin problems seen during summer of wildfires

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital observed a surge in atopic dermatitis and eczema cases during the summer of 2023, coinciding with peak carbon monoxide levels from wildfire air pollution. This correlation suggests that exposure to pollutants from wildfires may contribute to the development or worsening of skin conditions.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalDermatology and Therapy·DateDec 18, 2023

Quantifying barriers to establishing sequestration wells

A recent study from Carnegie Mellon University estimates the time required to develop, approve, and implement a geologic sequestration site in the US, identifying six clearance points that must be passed for a site to become operational. The findings suggest that on average, there is a 90% probability that the time required for a site ...

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2023

Do genes that code athletic heart enlargement carry a risk of future heart problems?

A new study found that one in six elite athletes have reduced heart function and an enrichment of genes associated with heart muscle disease. The research highlights the need for closer monitoring of these athletes' heart health, as their genetic makeup may be 'stressed' by exercise to cause profound heart changes.

SourceVictor Chang Cardiac Research Institute·JournalCirculation·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2023

Air conditioning has reduced mortality due to high temperatures in Spain by one third

A study published in Environment International found that air conditioning reduced heat-related mortality in Spain by up to 31.5%, while heating systems contributed to a decrease of 50.8% in extreme cold-related fatalities. However, the effect may be attenuated by an ageing population.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 18, 2023