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Science News Archive December 2023 - Page 22


Page 22 of 29

MIT engineers develop a way to determine how the surfaces of materials behave

Researchers create Automatic Surface Reconstruction framework to estimate all possible variations of material surfaces, providing detailed information on catalysts, semiconductors, and battery components. The method reduces human intuition and provides dynamic information on surface properties over time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·DateDec 7, 2023

Early life gene epimutation may cause breast cancer.

New research reveals that early life gene epimutations in the BRCA1 gene may increase the risk of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The study found that these epimutations occurred twice as often in girls than boys and were associated with a higher risk of TNBC, particularly in women who experienced pregnancy-related changes.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 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.

Reducing oxygen levels for children in intensive care will save lives

A new study by researchers at University College London found that reducing oxygen levels for critically ill children on mechanical ventilators can lead to better outcomes, including reduced days spent on machines supporting organs. This approach has the potential to improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs globally.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 7, 2023

Climate change will increase wildfire risk and lengthen fire seasons, study confirms

A new study assesses future fire risk using multiple fire danger indices, finding that climate change will increase extreme wildfire risk and extend fire seasons. The study projects a significant increase in wildfire risk across the US, with certain regions experiencing more than 40 additional days of extreme wildfire danger per year.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalEarth s Future·DateDec 7, 2023

Acoustic monitoring shows surprising resilience of subtropical forests to extreme weather – but climate change looms

Researchers analyzed 13,000 hours of audio data from Okinawan forests before, during, and after typhoons, finding that ecosystems responded differently than expected. The study suggests that developed sites were more resilient to extreme weather than anticipated, but climate change may push these ecosystems to their limits.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2023

Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology launched by Allen Institute, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and the University of Washington will turn cells into recording devices to unlock secrets of disease

The Seattle Hub for Synthetic Biology will develop technologies to record the history of cells over time, revealing how changes in cells and genes influence human health and disease. This single-cell technology has the potential to revolutionize how scientists study cell biology.

SourceChan Zuckerberg Initiative·DateDec 7, 2023

Less asphalt gives stronger trees in urban areas

Research from the University of Gothenburg found that trees surrounded by grass are stronger, taller, and cooler than those with paving close to the trunk. The study suggests investing in good soil and water for trees in urban areas where optimal conditions can be challenging.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

Vocal Fry: A sonic feature of a diverse city #Acoustics23

Researchers investigate how creaky voice use varies across different areas of Sydney, finding that the area's diversity plays a significant role. The study reveals mixed results regarding the influence of gender on creaky voice use, with no statistically significant difference found between men and women.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 7, 2023

Opioid prescribing by surgeons

Opioid prescribing rates from US surgeons decreased between 2016 and 2022, but rebounded after the COVID-19 pandemic. Larger prescription sizes were observed during the pandemic due to refills being difficult to obtain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 7, 2023

Software DJ creates automated pop song mashups #Acoustics23

A new software algorithm intelligently combines vocals and instrumentals from different songs, mimicking professional music composition techniques. The result is a unique blend of pleasing lyrics and exciting instrumentals that appeal to listeners, particularly hip-hop fans.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 7, 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.

Wasps that recognize faces cooperate more, may be smarter

A recent Cornell University study found that wasps which can recognize individual faces tend to have better social interactions and exhibit stronger cognitive abilities than those who cannot recognize individuals. This suggests an evolutionary link between facial recognition and cooperation.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 7, 2023

Younger postmenopausal patients with early-stage breast cancer may be able to safely omit adjuvant radiotherapy

A five-year follow-up study found that younger postmenopausal patients with stage I hormone receptor-positive breast cancer who opt out of adjuvant radiotherapy have a very low risk of disease recurrence. The study suggests that this option may be safely offered to women in this age group, but longer-term follow-up is needed.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 7, 2023

First hints of nuclear fission in cosmos revealed by models, observations

Researchers found a correlation between light precision metals like silver and rare earth nuclei like europium, indicating a consistent process operating during heavy element formation. The pattern provides a clear signature of fission creating these elements.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

New target found for treatment of spinal muscular atrophy

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism leading to motor neuron degeneration in SMA, which can be stopped by a Cdk5 inhibitor. This discovery offers a new treatment approach that could benefit all patients with SMA, including those ineligible for gene therapy.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 7, 2023

Specific genetic variant may help prevent obesity

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered a genetic variant in the GIP receptor that may help individuals resist obesity. The variant enhances insulin release and glucose metabolism, allowing mice with the variant to process sugar more efficiently and stay leaner.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalMolecular Metabolism·DateDec 7, 2023

Even small amounts of physical activity could be valuable in late-stage lung cancer

New research found that less than five minutes of daily physical activity can be beneficial for people living with inoperable lung cancer, reducing mortality rates by 60% compared to those who were largely inactive. Healthcare providers should investigate a person's levels of physical activity in early management of the disease.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 7, 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 HS curriculum teaches color chemistry and AI simultaneously

Researchers developed a weeklong high school curriculum that teaches color chemistry and AI, improving students' knowledge and motivation. The curriculum uses machine learning to analyze pH levels, showing the connection between chemistry and AI in a practical application.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023

Revealing the landscape of software as a medical device industry

The study reveals a diverse landscape of software as a medical device (SaMD) with notable progress in artificial intelligence/machine learning-based devices, accounting for 22% of all FDA-approved SaMDs. Established companies focus on incremental innovations, while new entrants and start-ups drive disruptive innovation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2023

Plastic surgeons ask: What's the ideal male buttock?

A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reports that men prefer a moderately enhanced, well-proportioned appearance for their buttocks. The findings suggest that ratings from men and women were similar in terms of preferred proportions, with a focus on symmetry and avoiding a flat or protruding shape.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateDec 7, 2023

Suburban backyard home to more than 1,000 species

A research paper reveals a suburban backyard is home to 1,150 unique species of animals, plants, and fungi. The study's authors discovered unexpected diversity, including 436 moth and butterfly species, 56 spiders, and eight reptiles.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEcology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

Less ice on the road leads to more salt in the soil, air, and water

A team of researchers finds that human demand for salt comes at a cost to the environment, affecting ecosystems and human health. Salt ions have increased in streams and rivers over the last 50 years, coinciding with an increase in global salt use and production.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·DateDec 7, 2023

Evolving trends in cosmetic breast augmentation: New data

The study analyzed 31,700 breast augmentation cases and found changing practice patterns in surgical technique over time. The use of inframammary incisions increased, while peri-areolar incisions decreased. Submuscular implant placement also became more common, reflecting the latest research evidence.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateDec 7, 2023

Urbanization increases seasonal differences in plant-pollinator networks

Researchers investigated how urbanization affects interactions between plants and pollinators in a tropical city. They found that seasonal changes play a crucial role in shaping these interactions, leading to significant changes in plant-pollinator networks.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalEcology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateDec 7, 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.

Molecular fossils shed light on ancient life

Researchers have discovered lipid fossils in ancient rocks, providing clues about the evolution of life. The findings suggest that a shift in animal feeding strategies occurred around 1.6 billion years ago, with some species abandoning phytosterol production as they obtained this nutrient from algae.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023

Ecology: Mediterranean green turtles nesting range expands under warming climate

A modelling study published in Scientific Reports suggests that rising global temperatures could lead to an expansion of the green turtle's nesting range in the Mediterranean Sea. The authors found that sea surface temperature, salinity, and human population density most affect the suitability of a location as a nesting site.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 7, 2023

First international expert and patient collaboration recommends changes to development, assessment, and approval of mental health medicines for young people

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry calls for improved processes for developing medicines for children and young people. Experts and patients collaborated to define new parameters for the development of these medicines.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 7, 2023

Chinese Medical Journal review dives deep into probiotics for colorectal cancer

Researchers found that probiotics can limit CRC-promoting bacteria, rebalance the microbial profile, and induce targeted cancer cell death. Postbiotics derived from probiotic bacteria have also been shown to prevent CRC by limiting tumor proliferation and modulating the balance of anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic factors.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 7, 2023

Exercise may boost quality of life for patients with metastatic breast cancer

Patients with metastatic breast cancer who participated in a nine-month structured exercise program reported less fatigue and improved quality of life compared to those who did not undergo the exercise program. The study found significant improvements in physical fitness, social functioning, pain, and shortness of breath.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateDec 7, 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.

Soundwaves harden 3D-printed treatments in deep tissues

A team of engineers has developed a novel printing method called deep-penetrating acoustic volumetric printing (DVAP) that uses soundwaves to solidify biologically compatible structures in deep tissues. The technique involves a specialized ink that reacts to ultrasound waves, enabling the creation of intricate structures for biomedical...

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023

Researchers reveal uncharted liver-focused pathway in gene therapy immune responses

Gene therapy treatments can prompt an adverse immune reaction when the body mistakenly perceives the treatment as a viral threat. Researchers have identified a critical pathway in the liver that triggers this response, but also found a way to block it, paving the way for safer and more precise gene therapy options.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateDec 7, 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.

UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute to lead new national stroke study

A Phase 2 clinical trial will study the effectiveness of a monoclonal antibody treatment, TS23, in reducing brain injury and improving outcomes for patients with acute ischemic stroke. The SISTER study aims to provide new hope for treatment and recovery for patients where time and access may have been limited.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateDec 6, 2023

Grinding coffee with a splash of water reduces static electricity and makes more consistent and intense espresso

Researchers found that adding water to coffee beans before grinding reduces static electricity, resulting in less wasted coffee and cleaner grinders. Grinding with water also produces more consistent and intense espresso. The study's findings have significant economic implications for the $343.2 billion coffee industry.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

AI can identify women with high risk of breast cancer in screening examinations

A new AI-based risk model evaluates mammographic images to identify women at high risk of developing breast cancer. The study confirms that the method works well in different European populations, with 6.2% of women classified as high-risk having almost seven times the risk of developing breast cancer.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2023

New protein linked to early-onset dementia identified

Researchers have identified a new protein, TAF15, associated with frontotemporal dementia, a rare and debilitating condition. The discovery provides a potential therapeutic target for diagnostic tests and treatments, offering hope for patients and families affected by the disease.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·JournalNature·DateDec 6, 2023

Statins protect against heart disease in high-risk groups, new studies find

Researchers found that statin therapy reduced mortality and disease risk among people with chronic kidney disease and frailty, regardless of age-related health conditions. The studies provide additional context to the debate about initiating statin use in people at high risk for heart disease.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 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.

Stanford Medicine-led study finds way to predict which of our organs will fail first

A new Stanford Medicine-led study reveals that organs age at different rates, and when an organ's age is advanced, individuals are at heightened risk for diseases. The study found that nearly 1 in 5 healthy adults over 50 have at least one organ aging rapidly, guiding therapeutic interventions before clinical symptoms manifest.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

EHR-based public health surveillance for chronic diseases

A new study provides practical guidance for implementing governance for sharing EHR data for chronic disease surveillance, which could reduce delays and provide more accurate metrics. The approach has already shown success in the Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateDec 6, 2023

Map of disease-causing mutations in neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer revealed

Researchers have created the first extensive map showing which genetic changes can cause disease, leading to valuable insights into neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer. The study reveals that 90% of previously unexplained genetic changes' impact on health is significant, promising speedier diagnosis and new treatment avenues.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Shaping tobacco control messages for the Chinese lunar new year through effective short videos

A new study evaluates effective short video concepts for tobacco control during the Chinese Lunar New Year, finding that certain designs can change behavioral intentions and cultural appropriateness. The most suitable design was a 'Gamified couple at home' style video, while another option showed promise in personal motivation but was ...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlobal Transitions·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 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.

Study finds individuals with acne face social and professional stigma

A study by Brigham researchers found that individuals with darker skin tones and more severe acne face greater stigma in social and professional settings. Participants were less likely to want to be friends or post photos with those having severe acne, particularly if they had a darker skin tone.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Dermatology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2023

Waveguide-based augmented reality displays

Waveguide combiners enable lightweight, high-performance augmented reality displays with expanded field of views. Designing waveguide combiner technology poses several challenges, including optimizing optical performance, manufacturability, and cost.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournaleLight·DateDec 6, 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.

New study finds many couples around the world may share high blood pressure

A new study found that in many older couples, both husband and wife had high blood pressure in the U.S., England, China, and India. This association was stronger in collectivist societies like China and India, where couples are expected to depend and support each other emotionally and instrumentally.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 6, 2023

Social factors drive use of scented menstrual products tied to health risks

Research finds that social factors, particularly racial and socioeconomic inequities, drive the use of scented menstrual products. The study found that Black participants were more likely to use scented products, while those with higher education levels preferred unscented options.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalFrontiers in Reproductive Health·TypeSurvey·DateDec 6, 2023

Scientists plead to be heard in pesticide debate: Exposure linked to risk of developing parkinson's disease via changes in gut microbiome

A review article links pesticide exposure to an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease through alterations in the gut microbiota. The authors recommend reducing or replacing agrochemicals and implementing coordinated efforts to develop standardized biomarkers for gut integrity and microbiome changes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Parkinson’s Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 6, 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.

Huge benefits of merging hydropower and desalination

A new system combines pumped hydro storage with reverse osmosis desalination to produce both electricity and freshwater. The Integrated Pumped Hydro Reverse Osmosis System (IPHROS) can supply 661,000 homes' worth of energy and water daily.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied Energy·DateDec 6, 2023