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Science News Archive December 2023 - Page 18


Page 18 of 29

Study: Women-led groups were key to food security during COVID-19 in India

A new study found that women-led self-help groups in Odisha, India played a crucial role in maintaining food security during the COVID-19 lockdowns by procuring fresh produce from farmers and selling it to local markets. The groups also provided training and support to their members, enabling them to start their own businesses.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalWorld Development·DateDec 11, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Healthy plant-based diet reduces diabetes risk by 24 per cent

A plant-based diet has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 24%, with benefits attributed to improved metabolism and liver function. Additionally, healthy eating patterns were found to improve organ function, particularly in individuals with genetic predispositions or other risk factors.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalDiabetes & Metabolism·DateDec 11, 2023

Millions of birds lose precious energy due to fireworks on New Year’s Eve

Research reveals that an average of 1,000 times more birds are in the air close to fireworks on New Year's Eve, with effects strongest within the first 5 km. Larger birds like geese and ducks fly for hours at remarkable altitudes, risking accidents.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Caffeine highs and lows footballers should be aware of

Research by Staffordshire University found that caffeine can improve short pass accuracy but negatively affect decision-making and long pass accuracy. The study suggests that coaches may need to adjust training strategies to account for caffeine's effects on young soccer players.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalBehavioural Brain Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2023

Portable, non-invasive, mind-reading AI turns thoughts into text

Researchers from the University of Technology Sydney have developed a portable, non-invasive system that can decode silent thoughts and turn them into text. The technology has been shown to achieve state-of-the-art performance in EEG translation, with an accuracy score of around 40% on BLEU-1.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 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.

Advanced MRI technology detects changes in the brain after COVID-19

Researchers at Linköping University used advanced diffusion MRI to examine the brains of patients with persisting symptoms after COVID-19 and found differences in white matter structure. This study provides new insights into the underlying mechanisms of post-COVID neurological problems.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBrain Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

Study: Extreme rainfall increases ag nutrient runoff, conservation strategies can help

A new study from the University of Illinois finds that extreme rainfall leads to significant spikes in nutrient concentrations, particularly after ½ inch, 1 inch, and 2 inches of precipitation. However, agricultural management practices such as cover crops can lower nutrient levels in water and persist until the end of the growing season.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association·DateDec 11, 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.

Holidays crank up kilos for Aussie kids

Research shows that Australian children are at risk of excessive weight gain and declining fitness during school holidays. The two-year study found that body fat increased at a faster pace and aerobic fitness declined faster than in-school periods. Promoting physical activities during holidays could help address unhealthy weight gain.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeCase study·DateDec 11, 2023

Public bodies “overwhelmed” at having to implement human rights laws, study warns

A new study warns that public bodies in England and Wales are 'overwhelmed' by the task of implementing human rights laws, with staff placing greater weight on implementation than on understanding the laws themselves. The research suggests that those who view equality and human rights law as malleable are more likely to trust individua...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRecht der Werkelijkheid·TypeSurvey·DateDec 11, 2023

KAIST introduces eco-friendly technologies for plastic production and biodegradation​

Researchers at KAIST have developed eco-friendly technologies for producing plastics and processing waste plastics using microorganisms. The team presented the latest microorganism-based technologies that can produce plastics from renewable biomass resources and decompose waste plastics, contributing to a circular economy.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

New study reveals latest data on global burden of cardiovascular disease

The new Global Burden of Disease report provides an update on the global burden of cardiovascular disease, with Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East having the highest CVD mortality rates. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and dietary risks remain leading causes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 11, 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.

Genetic “protection” against depression was no match for pandemic stress

A study of first-year college students reveals that pandemic stress triggers a rise in clinical depression, even among those with genetic factors that previously shielded them. The research identifies potential predictors of psychological resilience and provides a tool to identify at-risk students for targeted support.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2023

New therapeutic target for rare type of childhood epilepsy

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have identified Cav2.3, a calcium channel, as a potential treatment target for CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), a genetic form of epilepsy that affects early childhood development. The study suggests that inhibiting Cav2.3 could help alleviate symptoms like seizures.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

New conductive, cotton-based fiber developed for smart textiles

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a single strand of fiber that combines the flexibility of cotton with the electric conductivity of polyaniline. The newly created material showed good potential for wearable e-textiles, including detecting hazardous exposures and tracking human vital signs.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·DateDec 11, 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.

Alaskan allies: Communities unite to protect the areas they love

The University of Illinois initiative brings Denali neighbors together in an online discussion forum to share views on protected area conservation and land management. The study finds that engaging diverse stakeholders leads to collaborative dialogue and thoughtful discussions, despite differing priorities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalSustainability Science·DateDec 11, 2023

Applications open for School of Advanced Science on Quantum Materials

The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Quantum Materials will select and support 100 graduate students and young researchers to focus on fundamental, theoretical, and experimental aspects of quantum materials. The program will cover topics like superconductivity, electronic topology, and complex magnetic configurations.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateDec 11, 2023

Rail industry urged to consider safety risks of space weather

Researchers found that space weather events can trigger 'wrong side' failures in rail signalling systems, which are more hazardous than 'right side' failures. This study highlights the need for the industry to consider the risks of space weather and explore mitigation strategies.

SourceLancaster University·JournalSpace Weather·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 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.

A cool (temperature) take on direct air carbon capture

Researchers have developed an ion-exchange method that captures CO2 at room temperature, paired with an electrochemical cell to purify the gas. The technology has the potential to be powered by industrial waste heat or geothermal energy, reducing emissions and costs.

SourceLehigh University·DateDec 11, 2023

Science sheds light on shaking your holiday presents

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that people can quickly determine what someone is trying to figure out when they shake a box, including the number of items or their shape. This study reveals a key aspect of human cognition and demonstrates how our minds track visual cues.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2023

A new mechanism by which rotavirus makes you sick

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered a new mechanism by which rotavirus induces diarrhea, involving the degradation of DGAT1 enzyme in intestinal cells. This process leads to reduced nutrient absorption and disruption of intestinal function.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

New way to force pathogenic proteins into degradation

Researchers develop a novel protein killer and discover a new ligase for PROTACs, which can specifically target and degrade pathological proteins in specific tissues. This breakthrough could enable the targeted degradation of proteins in tumors.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 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.

Have researchers found the missing link that explains the mysterious phenomenon known as fairy circles?

A new study by Prof. Ehud Meron and colleagues proposes that pairing spatial patterning and phenotypic changes is the missing link to understanding fairy circles. The researchers found that combining plant-level phenotypic changes with population-level spatial patterning can result in resilient ecosystem responses to water stress.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2023

Mass General Brigham researchers develop ‘potent and specific’ compounds to curb cancer growth

Researchers at Mass General Brigham have developed a new class of proteasome inhibitors that specifically target the β2 active site in cancer cells. The newly synthesized compounds effectively inhibit multiple myeloma cell growth and show promise for reducing therapeutic resistance and side effects when combined with existing drugs.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

If a piece of Turkey gets stuck in your throat this Christmas, there is no point in trying to free it with Cola

A study published in the BMJ Christmas Issue investigated the effectiveness of cola in loosening stuck food in the oesophagus. The results show no significant improvement, with only 61% of patients experiencing relief on their own. Cola use was found to have no side effects or complications.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 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.

Ukraine has lost 18% of its scientists due to the war

The war has caused a significant loss of scientific talent in Ukraine, with approximately 20% of top scientists emigrating. Many scientists who stay are working under precarious contracts or have limited time for research.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateDec 11, 2023

Sleep Trackers Everywhere: How does one choose?

A study evaluated sleep tracking performance of various wearable devices against a reference system, considering user needs. Non-EEG wearables showed superior performance for healthy individuals who want to monitor sleep habits.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalSleep Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 2023

Patients with a common form of acute myeloid leukemia report better quality of life when treatment includes new drug quizartinib

A new study led by Dr. Mikkael Sekeres found that patients with a common form of acute myeloid leukemia reported better quality of life when treated with quizartinib, which targets the FLT3-ITD mutation. The study also showed minimal side effects and improved survival rates compared to those who didn't receive the drug.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·DateDec 11, 2023

Similarity between vitamin B12 loss and multiple sclerosis revealed

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys identified a molecular signaling pathway that could enhance current MS treatments by linking vitamin B12 deficiency to MS. The study found that supplementing with brain-targeted B12 formulations may improve drug efficacy for this class of medicines.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2023

Defusing a ‘ticking time bomb’: Groundbreaking research offers early clues to stomach cancer development

Researchers identified 26 'driver genes' that play a pivotal role in the transition to stomach cancer, providing a critical window for early detection and targeted prevention. The study's findings offer new insights into the mechanisms governing the transformation of intestinal metaplasia into stomach cancer.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 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.

Made-to-order diagnostic tests may be on the horizon

McGill researchers have developed capillaric chips that can be 3D-printed in 30 minutes, enabling on-the-spot testing and potentially making diagnostic tests more accessible. The technology has the potential to speed up diagnoses, enhance patient care, and usher in a new era of accessible testing.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 11, 2023

Inclusive content, peer support, media information literacy can combat health misinformation spread to adolescents on social media

A new commentary in JAMA Pediatrics recommends improving adolescents' media information literacy skills and promoting inclusive content to combat health misinformation spread on social media. This approach aims to harness the potential of social media as a tool for positive connections and mental well-being.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 11, 2023

Just say no to that invitation

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people often overestimate the negative ramifications of declining an invitation, but the actual effects are much less severe. The researchers conducted five experiments with over 2,000 participants and discovered that individuals tend to exaggerate the degree to whi...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 11, 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.

New AI algorithm enables advanced real-time decoding for neurotechnologies

A new deep-learning method, DFINE, can accurately decode brain signals in real time while handling randomly missing signals, enhancing neurotechnologies. This breakthrough advances brain-computer interfaces for treating various neurological and mental health conditions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2023

14-inch spacecraft delivers new details about ‘hot Jupiters'

Researchers have observed the atmospheres of seven hot Jupiters using NASA's CUTE spacecraft, revealing that some planets lose significant gas while others remain unchanged. The findings suggest a combination of planetary size and stellar activity plays a role in atmospheric escape. CUTE's precise measurements provide valuable insights...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateDec 11, 2023

New tool to analyze blood platelets holds major medical potential

A novel technique to test platelet function within a person's blood sample is faster, easier and more precise than methods currently in use. The technology has the potential to assess the effects of antiplatelet drugs on individuals and gain a clearer picture of bleeding risks for patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.

SourceEmory University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 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.

Real world data shows impact of immunotherapy in populations underrepresented in clinical trials, according to JNCCN study

A recent study published in JNCCN found that patients from underrepresented groups treated with first-line immunotherapy for advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) showed similar survival outcomes as their White counterparts. The study analyzed data from 248 patients and highlighted the need for more diverse patient representation...

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateDec 11, 2023

Pots full of history

Prehistoric pottery production discovered to be linked to hunter-gatherer communities, not solely farming, and influenced culinary traditions in Europe. Analysis of pot residues reveals information on cooked products and food processing methods.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2023

AI chatbot shows potential as diagnostic partner, researchers find

Researchers found that a large language model chatbot demonstrated more accuracy in making diagnoses than human clinicians, especially when test results were negative. This suggests the potential for AI to serve as a useful diagnostic partner for physicians, reducing overtreatment and improving decision-making.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 11, 2023

Nanoparticle-delivered RNA reduces neuroinflammation in lab tests

Researchers developed novel nanoparticles that deliver RNA to microglia immune cells, reducing inflammation linked to Alzheimer's disease. The study showed a 42% reduction of PU-1 expression and multiple inflammatory markers in human cell cultures and mice models.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 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.

Diabetes: examining microvasculature with AI and an optoacoustic skin scanner

Researchers developed a method to measure microvascular changes in the skin using AI and optoacoustic imaging technology, enabling non-invasive assessment of diabetes severity. The study identified 32 significant changes in blood vessels, which can be used to monitor disease progression.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

Don't say "vegan"

A national food choice experiment found that labeling a meat-free and dairy-free food basket as 'vegan' or 'plant-based' leads to lower appeal, whereas labels like 'healthy' or 'sustainable' result in higher preference. This study suggests using these alternative labels can encourage healthier and more environmentally sustainable eatin...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateDec 11, 2023

A URV study analyzes how the green transition affects competition and concentration in the business market

The study finds that a lack of investment in sustainable processes can lead to market concentration and reduced competition. However, when all companies invest in green transition, prices increase but overall benefit is maximized due to consumer willingness to pay more for environmentally friendly products.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2023

New study shows Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced PTSD and anxiety in frontline nurses during COVID-19 pandemic by more than half over a 3-month period

A study published in the Journal of Nursing Administration found that Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced PTSD, anxiety, and burnout in frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The technique improved flourishing by 15% and decreased symptoms by more than half over a 3-month period.

SourceTranscendental Meditation for Nurses·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 11, 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.