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Science News Archive December 2023 - Page 15


Page 15 of 29

Penn Medicine research shows how stress activates neurons that disrupt sleep

Stress activates neurons in the preoptic hypothalamus during non-rapid eye movement sleep, causing microarousals that interrupt sleep cycles. Suppressing these neurons may be a promising target for therapies to treat stress-related sleep disorders like insomnia and PTSD.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

New research lays groundwork for personalized dietary supplements

A groundbreaking study by David Berry and Alessandra Riva at the University of Vienna discovered that a wide range of gut bacteria can bind to inulin, a widely used prebiotic. The researchers developed an innovative method to track the interaction of inulin with gut bacteria, yielding surprising results.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2023

Beef farming that keeps cattle on lifelong grass diets may have higher carbon footprint

A recent study found that beef operations with lifelong grass-based diets may produce a 42% higher carbon footprint when considering soil carbon sequestration and carbon opportunity costs. This is in contrast to grain-finished operations, which have been previously shown to have a lower environmental impact. The study's findings emphas...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

A spinal muscle’s size and shape is linked to body fat, according to new Concordia research

A new study by Concordia researchers found a strong positive relationship between percentage body fat and echo intensity, indicating more fat within the muscle. The study also revealed differences in lumbar multifidus characteristics between male and female athletes, with females having larger LMs than males.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Musculoskeletal Disorders·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

‘A ticking clock’: First ground-based survey of damage to Ukrainian cultural sites reveals severity, need for urgency

Researchers from the University of Notre Dame document extensive damage to Ukraine's cultural heritage sites, including churches, schools, and archaeological sites. The team found widespread devastation caused by missile strikes and underground trench systems, with many historical buildings and monuments affected.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAntiquity·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Pacific Northwest snowpack endangered by increasing spring heatwaves

A Washington State University study reveals that high-elevation snow in the Pacific Northwest is melting earlier due to frequent and intense heatwaves. The researchers found that these heatwaves have doubled in frequency and intensity since the mid-1990s, posing a significant threat to the region's water supply.

SourceWashington State University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateDec 13, 2023

DNA discovery opens door to personalised medicine for Indigenous Australians

Researchers have conducted the most comprehensive genome analysis of Indigenous Australians, revealing hundreds of thousands of unique DNA variations. These findings hold promise for tailored treatments addressing health inequities and improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature·TypeCase study·DateDec 13, 2023

This adaptive roof tile can cut both heating and cooling costs

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara developed an adaptive roof tile that can switch between heating and cooling modes based on temperature. The device, powered by a wax motor, has been shown to reduce energy consumption for cooling by 3.1x and heating by 2.6x compared to conventional devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalDevice·DateDec 13, 2023

National cardiogenic shock initiative study results show significant increase in heart attack survival

The National Cardiogenic Shock Initiative study demonstrates a 71% survival rate for patients treated with the new protocol, which involves rapid initiation of mechanical circulatory support and right heart catheterization. This significant improvement in survival rates is expected to save thousands of lives each year.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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.

Mice possess natural gene therapy system

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University has discovered a new role for 4.5 SH RNA in mice, which plays a crucial role in regulating alternative splicing and may be the first identified member of a new class of regulatory RNAs.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

The A+ team tackles AI and quantum computing hardware

Researchers from Jefferson Lab, imec, and Cornell University collaborate to develop ultra-energy-efficient Superconducting Digital electronics for emerging AI and quantum computing technologies. The project aims to improve energy efficiency by 100X and enable both classical and quantum computing.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateDec 13, 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.

Understanding the risk of cell therapy for heart repair

A recent study found that human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes interact negatively with myofibroblasts, leading to electrical instability and arrhythmogenic potential. Blocking Interleukin-6 signalling reduced these negative effects, suggesting a promising therapeutic strategy for safe regenerative treatments.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateDec 13, 2023

Making probiotics more widely applicable through ‘CRISPR’ engineering

Recent progress in CRISPR-Cas editing enables tailored probiotic organisms to promote gut health, support immune systems, and enhance metabolism. Genetically modified probiotics have shown potential in preventing or mitigating diseases, such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 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.

A new imaging method for biological samples, developed in collaboration between IOCB Prague and the University of Münster, will help scientists and doctors to more quickly identify, for example, cancerous tissue

A new algorithm, SIMSEF, significantly speeds up and simplifies the identification of chemicals in tissues, enabling researchers to confidently recognize and visualize their distribution in organs. This development has great implications for medical diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Rare sleep disorder more prevalent than previously thought

A new study has found that idiopathic hypersomnia, a rare sleep disorder, is more common than previously thought, affecting approximately 1.5% of the population. People with this condition experience excessive daytime sleepiness, despite getting sufficient sleep at night.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 13, 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.

Scientists unveil first complete cellular map of adult mouse brain

Researchers unveiled an atlas cataloging the location and type of every cell in the adult mouse brain, revealing a complex relationship between genetic identity and spatial position. The map, which charts over 5,300 cell types, provides a detailed 'parts list' for the brain and could pave the way for precision treatments for diseases.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

The shape of dogs' heads affects their sleep

Research by Hungarian researchers found that flat-faced dogs, like French Bulldogs, sleep more due to increased daytime sleepiness and longer REM sleep phases. Their EEG patterns showed signs of white matter loss and distorted brain function.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalBrain Structure and Function·DateDec 13, 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.

NASA: some icy exoplanets may have habitable oceans and geysers

A NASA study suggests that 17 exoplanets could have subsurface oceans beneath their icy surfaces, potentially harboring life. The team estimated geyser activity on these planets, predicting that some may exhibit cryovolcanic eruptions, which could be detected using powerful telescopes.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2023

Mpox (monkeypox) vaccine triggers equally strong immune response in smaller than usual doses and in people with or without HIV

A new study found that a smaller dose of the mpox vaccine, administered in two doses spread out over weeks to months, produced a detectable immune response similar to the full FDA-approved dose. This was true for people with or without HIV, and those previously vaccinated against smallpox also had a stronger immune response.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

New embryo-like model simulates early human blood production

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a novel embryo-like model, heX-Embryoid, which replicates key features of early human development, including blood cell generation. The model has been shown to produce structures similar to blood islands and detect progenitors of red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 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.

Senior physicians may care for fewer patients with Medicaid and from racial/ethnic minorities than junior physicians

A new study found that senior physicians in cognitive and procedural specialties see fewer Medicaid patients and those from racial/ethnic minorities compared to junior physicians. This raises concerns about a two-tiered healthcare system and disparities in patient access.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Workplace gossip can benefit employees and employers

A new study from Binghamton University School of Management found that positive workplace gossip can reduce employee turnover and improve an organization's effectiveness. Employees who engage in positive gossip with coworkers may experience social gains, including reduced negative feelings towards their workplace.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalGroup & Organization Management·DateDec 13, 2023

NASA's Webb identifies tiniest free-floating brown dwarf

Astronomers used NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to identify the new record-holder: a tiny, free-floating brown dwarf with only three to four times the mass of Jupiter. The discovery provides clues about the star-formation process at very small masses and sheds light on the properties of exoplanets.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateDec 13, 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.

Study presents new pathway for electrochemically controlling ion selectivity

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a copolymer system that can control solvation and bind different ions through an electrochemical process. The study presents a new pathway for electrochemically controlling ion selectivity, offering a precise platform for removing ions from water.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJACS Au·DateDec 13, 2023

Trees are in trouble

A new study reveals that trees growing in wetter regions are more sensitive to drought, with up to 50% of species' ranges expected to become drier by 2100. Climate change models predict these areas will experience rapid drying, exposing trees to conditions beyond their adaptive capacity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateDec 13, 2023

Was the earthquake induced or natural? New study tests frameworks to answer the question

A panel of experts concluded that the November 2022 Peace River earthquake sequence in Alberta, Canada was likely induced by human activity. The study used questionnaires created to distinguish natural from induced earthquakes, and gathered data on fluid injection information and past regional seismicity.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 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
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.

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

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
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.

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
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.

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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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

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
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 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