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Science News Archive December 2023 - Page 2


Page 2 of 29
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unraveling the mysteries of fog in complex terrain

A study led by University of Utah researchers has shed new light on how fog forms in mountainous areas, providing insights for improving forecasts. The team used high-resolution data and modeling to better understand the complex physical processes involved in fog formation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeObservational study·DateDec 27, 2023

Low-carbohydrate diet macronutrient quality and weight change

A study of 123,000 individuals found that low-carbohydrate diets emphasizing whole grains and plant-based foods are associated with slower weight gain in the long term. Low-carb diets relying on animal-sourced proteins and refined carbohydrates result in faster weight gain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 27, 2023

KRISS develops world’s first coffee bean CRM for component analysis

The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS) has developed the world's first CRM capable of accurately measuring nutritional and harmful elements in coffee beans. The new CRM enables accurate measurement of five nutrients and three toxic elements, meeting domestic and European regulations.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateDec 27, 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 study uncovers molecular interactions driving multiple inflammasome activation and inflammatory cell death

A team of researchers discovered a multiprotein complex involving NLRP3, AIM2, NLRC4, and Pyrin that drives PANoptosis, a type of programmed inflammatory cell death. The findings have implications for understanding inflammasome biology and identifying potential therapeutic targets.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalCellular and Molecular Immunology·DateDec 27, 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.

The impact of nurse practitioner placement in Japanese nursing homes

Researchers found that nurse practitioner placement in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, resulted in reduced emergency visits and optimized care for residents with higher care needs. The study suggests a paradigm shift in elder care, highlighting the pivotal role of NPs in delivering quality healthcare.

SourceOkayama University·JournalThe Journal for Nurse Practitioners·TypeObservational study·DateDec 26, 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.

In situ characterization reveals different dehydrogenation pathways in MgH2

Researchers have optimized thermodynamics and kinetics of Mg-In-Ti hydrogen storage system, improving de/hydrogenation properties. The study aims to combine advantages of MXenes and In alloying for simultaneous alteration of Mg-based hydrogen storage materials.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 26, 2023

Quality of care declines after private equity takes over hospitals

A recent study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that hospitals acquired by private equity firms experience a decline in clinical quality of care. Patient falls and new infections were among the measures of safety that worsened after buyouts. The findings suggest that financial pressures from private equity may overshadow pat...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateDec 26, 2023

In quest to prevent debilitating TBIs, new foam material rises to the top

Researchers developed a new lightweight foam material that can dissipate an enormous amount of rotational kinetic energy from an impact, potentially preventing traumatic brain injuries. The material is 30 times better at absorbing shear strain than current foams used in military combat helmet liners.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalExperimental Mechanics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 26, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Battling persistence in TB bacteria

Researchers found a single gene involved in iron-sulphur clusters crucial for TB bacterium's persistence. The IscS gene helps regulate the SUF operon, preventing hypervirulence and allowing the bacteria to survive harsh lung conditions.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 26, 2023

Off-label use of a common antibiotic to treat muscular dystrophy

Researchers from Osaka University have identified erythromycin as a potential treatment for myotonic dystrophy type 1, a genetic disease characterized by progressive muscular weakness. The antibiotic showed acceptable safety and tolerability profiles in a phase 2 clinical trial, with some patients experiencing significant improvements ...

SourceOsaka University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 26, 2023

Common heart medication digoxin shows promise in enhancing survival after surgery for infants with certain heart defects

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that digoxin treatment significantly reduced mortality and the need for a transplant among infants undergoing a hybrid procedure for single-ventricle physiology. The researchers analyzed data from 259 infants who received digoxin during their interstage per...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 26, 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.

A protective antibody targeting a conserved site of fusion glycoprotein of respiratory syncytial virus

A new antibody targeting a highly conserved epitope on RSV's fusion glycoprotein demonstrates promising results, outperforming existing Palivizumab in neutralization and protective efficacy. The study also explores synergistic effects with other inhibitors, expanding the understanding of RSV's neutralizing and protective epitopes.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalhLife·DateDec 26, 2023

Mass General Brigham study finds daily learning test can detect Alzheimer’s disease-related changes in memory among cognitively normal older adults

A study by Mass General Brigham found that daily learning tests can detect Alzheimer's disease-related changes in memory among cognitively normal older adults. The test, called BRANCH, was completed over seven days on a smartphone, revealing diminished learning curves associated with elevated amyloid levels.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 26, 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.

Safety of aquatic animals as human protein sources amid SARS-CoV-2 concerns

Researchers developed a pipeline to evaluate the risk of infections by aquatic animals. The study found no evidence of human-associated viruses in aquatic animal transcriptomes, confirming their safety as protein sources. However, proper handling and storage are crucial to controlling SARS-CoV-2 spread through cold-chain food.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalReproduction and Breeding·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 26, 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.

‘Maintain Asian forest diversity to avoid climate change impact’

A team of international scientists found that Southeast Asian forests resisted 'savannisation' during the Last Glacial Maximum, maintaining a mosaic of diverse closed and open forest types. Maintaining forest diversity is key to preventing future 'savannisation' and protecting tropical rainforests in regions like South East Asia.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 25, 2023

Anthrax lethal toxin and tumor necrosis factor-α synergize to induce mouse death

Researchers found that anthrax lethal toxin (LT) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) synergize to induce mouse death, primarily through damage to intestinal epithelial cells. Both necroptosis and apoptosis pathways are involved in this process, which could lead to a new target for preventing anthrax-caused death.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalProtein & Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 25, 2023

A novel angle on type 1 diabetes: RNA editing disruption mimics early-stage disease with no involvement of virus

A recent study by the Hebrew University proposes a new etiology for early stages of type 1 diabetes, attributing it to disrupted RNA editing within pancreatic beta cells. This perspective challenges long-held beliefs about viral involvement, suggesting potential implications for treatments and cures.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 25, 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.

KAIST presents strategies for environmentally friendly and sustainable polyamides production​

Researchers at KAIST have developed high-performance strains producing a variety of compounds, including succinic acid, biodegradable plastics, and biofuels. They provide insights into advancements in polyamide monomer production and synthesizing bio-based polyamides through chemical conversion.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalTrends in Chemistry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 25, 2023

ACP says barriers to participating in the electoral process must be removed

The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends removing barriers to participating in the electoral process to advance health equity. ACP supports policies ensuring safe and equitable access to voting, opposes partisan gerrymandering, and encourages civic participation among healthcare professionals.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateDec 25, 2023

Electronic “soil” enhances crop growth

Linköping University scientists create an electrically conductive substrate, eSoil, which enhances crop growth by up to 50% in just 15 days. This innovation enables efficient water and nutrient management, making it suitable for urban environments and areas with limited arable land.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 25, 2023

Researchers prove human influence on large herbivore diets during anthropocene

A study published in Ecology Letters reveals that human population growth and land-use changes led to significant dietary shifts in large herbivores in eastern China. The researchers found that these herbivores adapted by altering their diets, with increased interspecific differences and expanded intraspecific dietary ranges.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalEcology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 24, 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.

Turning plastic trash into chemistry treasure

A team at Hokkaido University has developed a method to reuse plastic waste while improving process safety and efficiency. The approach uses common plastic materials to initiate radical chain reactions, detoxifying hazardous chemicals and reducing toxicity.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 24, 2023

Piezoelectric-enhanced p-n junctions in photoelectrochemical systems

A team of researchers has designed a unique n-TiO2/BaTiO3/p-TiO2 heterojunction that couples with the piezoelectric effect to overcome charge separation and transfer limitations. The design achieves higher photocurrent density than traditional p-n junctions, enabling more efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 24, 2023

Power of illusion can help with learning new movements

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University found that visual-motor illusion (VMI) can improve motor performance and early-stage motor learning. Volunteers who used VMI showed greater improvements in task completion and persisted changes in brain activity, suggesting a potential new treatment strategy for hemiplegic stroke patients.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 23, 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.

Breast cancer cells’ self-sacrificial behaviour uncovered as potential cause of relapse

Researchers at NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine discovered that certain breast tumour cells sacrifice their own growth to aid other cells in resisting chemotherapy, leading to higher chances of recurrence. Disrupting this cooperation could lead to more effective treatments.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 23, 2023

Flavonoid supplement reduces swelling after total knee arthroplasty

A clinical trial found that diosmin reduced swelling at the knee, calf, and thigh up to 14 days after TKA, with lower pain scores on movement. The study also showed improved outcomes for short-term complications and a trend toward decreased postoperative nausea and vomiting.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateDec 22, 2023

Predicting Alzheimer’s dementia in oldest of the old

Researchers found that baseline amyloid burden and brain health are stronger predictors of Alzheimer's progression than age alone. The study also showed that individuals with higher amyloid levels developed dementia two years earlier than those without.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNeurology·DateDec 22, 2023

Scientists develop ‘flying dragon’ robot to fight fires from a distance

A Japanese research team developed a four-meter-long, remotely controllable flying firehose robot called the Dragon Firefighter. It can safely and efficiently extinguish fires by directly approaching flames. The robot will be deployed in real-world firefighting scenarios after approximately 10 more years of development.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 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.

Stinky, bitter, and painful: A novel insect repellent attacks multiple sensory pathways

Researchers have identified a novel insect repellent, 2-methylthiazoline (2MT), which induces robust aversive responses through multiple sensory pathways in fruit flies. The compound stimulates both olfactory and nociceptive pathways, leading to avoidance behaviors and effective repulsion from fly pests.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2023

How jellyfish regenerate functional tentacles in days

Researchers have discovered that jellyfish use stem-like proliferative cells to form a blastema, which helps regenerate functional tissue across the missing appendage. This study provides insight into the mechanism of blastema formation and may improve our own regenerative abilities.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 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.

Signed orders sent via mail nearly doubled liver cancer screening rates

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that mailing signed orders to patients with cirrhosis led to a significant increase in liver cancer screenings. The study involved over 500 patients and showed that 55% completed their screening within six months, compared to just 27% in the control group.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalHepatology Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 22, 2023

Jupiter was targeted by exoplanet hunter

A team of researchers from Portugal used the ESPRESSO spectrograph to measure wind speeds on Jupiter, confirming the feasibility of Doppler velocimetry for monitoring the planet's atmospheric winds. The study also gathered historical data to compare results and validate the method.

SourceFaculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon·JournalUniverse·DateDec 22, 2023