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Science News Archive December 2023 - Page 26


Page 26 of 29

Toxicity at Wikipedia

A study by Ivan Smirnov and colleagues found that toxic comments on user talk pages lead to a reduction in editor activity, with newcomers being 1.8 times less likely to continue contributing. Toxicity may also contribute to the site's lack of diversity among Wikipedians.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 5, 2023

Exposure to soft robots decreases human fears about working with them

A Washington State University study found that watching videos of a soft robot working with a person at picking and placing tasks lowered the viewers' safety concerns and feelings of job insecurity. Soft robots have a potential psychological advantage over rigid robots, as proximity does not increase negative reactions.

SourceWashington State University·JournalIISE Transactions on Occupational Ergonomics and Human Factors·DateDec 5, 2023

Eye scans provide crucial insights into kidney health, study finds

Researchers used 3D eye scans to detect changes in the retina and monitor kidney health, finding that thinner retinas correlated with declining kidney function. The technology has potential to support early diagnosis and aid lifestyle changes to reduce health complications.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 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.

Unlocking the secrets of the brain’s dopaminergic system

A new organoid model replicates the dopaminergic system's structure, connectivity, and functionality, shedding light on its intricate functionality and potential implications for Parkinson’s disease. The model also uncovers the enduring effects of chronic cocaine exposure on the dopaminergic circuit, even after withdrawal.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Prohibition may have extended life for those born in dry counties

A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that individuals born in dry counties due to Prohibition-era laws lived longer, with an average additional lifespan of approximately 1.7 years. This increase in longevity is equivalent to nearly 15% of the overall life expectancy improvements for those born between 1900-1930.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalEconomics & Human Biology·DateDec 5, 2023

Surgery beneficial for some children with mild sleep-disordered breathing

A clinical trial funded by NIH found that adenotonsillectomy improves sleep, quality of life, and blood pressure in children with mild sleep-disordered breathing. The study showed less daytime sleepiness, reduced snoring, and better outcomes for children who underwent surgery.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateDec 5, 2023

Glyphosphate: a silver-bullet weed killer no more

Decades of relying on glyphosate for weed control has led to the development of resistance in multiple weed species, compromising its efficacy. However, combining post-emergence and pre-emergence herbicides can provide consistent weed control, highlighting the need for diverse management programs.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 5, 2023

Unlocking neutron star rotation anomalies: Insights from quantum simulation

Scientists have successfully simulated neutron star glitches using ultracold supersolids, revealing a link between quantum mechanics and astrophysics. The study sheds light on the internal structure and dynamics of neutron stars, providing valuable insights into extreme conditions.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 5, 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.

Harvesting water from air with solar power

Researchers have developed a promising new solar-powered technology to harvest water from air, capable of increasing daily water supply needs in dryland areas. The system uses a super hygroscopic gel to absorb and retain large amounts of water, with the potential for large-scale practical applications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateDec 5, 2023

How to identify vintage wines by their chemical signature

Researchers from UNIGE and ISVV have successfully identified the chemical mark of red wines from seven major Bordeaux estates with 100% accuracy using artificial intelligence. The team analyzed gas chromatograms from 80 wines and applied dimensionality reduction techniques to develop a reliable model.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeNews article·DateDec 5, 2023

Even a brief experience of poverty enough to harm a children’s development

A new study found that one-off experiences of poverty can have a lasting impact on children's cognitive and behavioral development. The research identified parenting stress and reduced ability to invest in healthy activities as key factors contributing to this harm.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalEuropean Societies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 5, 2023

State abortion access key factor in future US doctors’ training (residency) choices

A recent survey of medical students in the US reveals that state abortion access is a key factor in choosing residency programs, with over half indicating it would influence their decision. The survey also highlights the importance of reproductive healthcare and contraception for residents, who are increasingly women.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Medical Ethics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 5, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

DeepDrug: A general graph-based deep learning framework for drug-drug interactions and drug-target interactions prediction

The DeepDrug framework leverages graph-based deep learning to predict drug-target interactions and optimize drug discovery. It achieves optimal performance across various tasks, including binary-class DDI and DTI classification, multi-class/multi-label DDIs, and regression tasks.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalQuantitative Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Study proposes new explanation for California anchovy booms and busts

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the length of a food chain supporting newly hatched anchovies correlates strongly with population booms and busts. Shorter food chains are more efficient, resulting in more energy reaching anchovy larvae, while longer chains lead to less energy availability, causing busts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 5, 2023

Shuqing Xu receives ERC Consolidator Grant for his research on the evolution in ecological communities in response to climate change

Professor Shuqing Xu's research aims to investigate the connections between species interactions and evolutionary responses to climate change. He will create aquatic pond systems with hundreds of species to study how organisms respond to temperature increases, with potential findings on coevolution and ecosystem functions.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateDec 5, 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.

When do brains grow up?

Researchers have discovered that short-lived mice and longer-living primates develop brain synapses on the exact same timeline, sparking a reevaluation of human brain development. This finding challenges existing knowledge and may have significant implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2023

Making table tennis accessible for blind players #Acoustics23

A team of researchers has created an audio feedback system that uses neuromorphic cameras and speaker arrays to provide real-time audio cues in three dimensions. The system enables blind players to track the ball and movements, allowing them to play table tennis with greater accuracy.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2023

Newly identified biomarkers may detect early cognitive decline via blood test

A new study identified genetic indicators that can predict cognitive decline in people affected by extreme stressors like psychiatric disorders or childhood maltreatment. The research found accelerated biological aging to be a biomarker for cognitive decline, which may help create treatments to improve health outcomes.

SourcePenn State·JournalNeurobiology of Stress·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

New study highlights COVID-19’s adaptive strategy for infection

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have discovered a novel mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 varies its mode of infection in human cells. The study reveals that the virus can alternate between being highly infectious and avoiding detection by the immune system.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateDec 5, 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.

Pregnant women are missing vital nutrients needed for them and their babies – and situation could worsen with plant-based foods

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that 90% of pregnant women in high-income countries lack key vitamins necessary for healthy pregnancies and fetal development. The situation is expected to worsen as more people adopt plant-based diets, leading to increased risk of nutrient deficiencies.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 5, 2023

Study demonstrates improved nutrition and taste of plant-based milks thanks to pretreatment methods

Researchers at ITMO University improved the nutritional value and taste of plant-based milks by using pre-freezing and ultrasound treatment methods. These methods boosted the extraction of beneficial microelements like iron, potassium, and zinc, as well as polyphenols, resulting in improved antioxidant activity.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateDec 5, 2023

Jefferson Lab site grows with addition of Applied Research Center

The Applied Research Center (ARC) is transferring ownership to Jefferson Lab, expanding its campus with a dedicated visitor center and science education center. The facility will support the lab's growing mission in high performance computing and data science.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateDec 5, 2023

‘Friendly’ hyenas are more likely to form mobs

Research from Michigan State University reveals that spotted hyenas form mobs based on strong social relationships and can cooperate even when there's no obvious benefit. The study found that female hyenas were more likely to join mobs when there were no male lions present.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 5, 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.

Older organs accelerate aging in transplant recipients

Transplanting older organs from donors accelerates aging in younger recipients, leading to impaired physical capacity and cognitive decline. Senolytic treatments have shown promise in reducing these effects by inhibiting senescence-associated factors.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 2023

Diamonds and rust help unveil ‘impossible’ quasi-particles

Scientists have discovered magnetic monopoles in hematite, a type of iron oxide closely related to rust. The study uses diamond quantum sensing to observe swirling textures and faint magnetic signals, revealing the emergence of these isolated magnetic charges.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 5, 2023

The silver bullet that wasn't: Glyphosate's declining weed control over 25 years

Researchers found a significant decline in glyphosate's ability to control seven major weed species, with most showing signs of adaptation within two to three years. The study suggests that using a pre-emergence herbicide can significantly improve control and reduce variability of glyphosate over time.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 5, 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 identifies key ingredient for affordable fuel cell catalysts

Researchers at University at Buffalo have discovered a way to create strong and effective fuel cell catalysts that approach the performance of platinum. By adding hydrogen to the fabricating process, they were able to balance durability and efficiency, potentially making fuel cells more affordable and polluting-free.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 5, 2023

Replacing bone saws with smart lasers

Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a system that combines three functions: cutting bone, controlling depth, and differentiating tissue types. This autonomous system uses three lasers to make precise incisions with minimal human interference.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalLasers in Surgery and Medicine·DateDec 5, 2023

Glial tone of aggression

Researchers at Tohoku University found that Bergmann glial cells in the cerebellar vermis regulate the volume of aggression in mice. The study suggests that adjusting glial activity in the cerebellum could lead to therapeutic strategies for managing anger and aggression.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNeuroscience Research·DateDec 5, 2023

Individually targeted therapies may improve treatment for psychosis

Research suggests that big data and artificial intelligence can aid in developing bespoke therapies for psychosis. The study proposes refining existing therapies and exploring alternative approaches to improve outcomes for patients.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalPsychology and Psychotherapy Theory Research and Practice·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 5, 2023

Addicted to your phone? New tool identifies overuse of digital media

The Digital Media Overuse Scale (dMOS) is a new tool that measures digital media addiction, providing clinically relevant scores across various domains. Researchers found that overuse is typically reported in one or a few domains only, with social media being a significant concern.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalTechnology Mind and Behavior·DateDec 5, 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.

Chemists create organic molecules in a rainbow of colors

Researchers at MIT have developed a new method to synthesize acenes, chains of fused carbon-containing rings that can emit different colors of light. The new approach improves the stability of acenes, making them suitable for use in organic light-emitting diodes and solar cells.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 5, 2023

Developing technology to place minute “marks” in the brain

Researchers create a method to deposit small metal oxide marks in deep brain regions using electrolysis, allowing for precise localization and high-resolution imaging of neurons. The technology enables the visualization of brain-wide distribution of neurons with specific functional characteristics.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournaleNeuro·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 5, 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.

Paradoxical role of white blood cells in breast cancer spread

A new study found that a type of white blood cell called tumour-associated macrophages can promote the formation of lymphatic vessels, facilitating cancer cell transport to other organs. However, these cells also reduce breast cancer spread to the lungs while increasing it to the lymph nodes.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 5, 2023

Wearable ultrasound monitor can aid rehabilitation from injury #Acoustics23

Researchers have developed a wearable ultrasound system that can provide clinically relevant information about muscle function during dynamic physical activity. The device uses a patented approach to transmit long-duration chirps, allowing for real-time analysis of muscle dynamics and aiding in the rehabilitation process.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2023

Powerful financial giants could play vital role in preventing the next pandemic

A new study identifies public and private companies operating in economic sectors associated with increased risks of emerging infectious diseases. Financial actors can mitigate these risks through investments that promote ecological restoration, pathogen surveillance systems, and community health care.

SourceStockholm Resilience Centre·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 4, 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.

Tracking undetectable space junk

Researchers propose a new method to track small pieces of space debris by detecting electric signals emitted when they collide. This approach could help protect satellites and spacecraft from damage, as tiny pieces of debris can cause significant harm at high orbital speeds.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 4, 2023

Researchers awarded $1M to protect coastal communities, aquaculture industry

The BioSPACE project aims to provide farmers, environmental agencies, and water-reliant industries with portable sensors to rapidly detect germs that threaten marine and freshwater life. The economic burden caused by waterborne diseases exceeds $3 billion in direct health care costs each year in the United States.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateDec 4, 2023

CNIC and the i+12 Institute participate in the most ambitious EU project to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes

The Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes (JACARDI) aims to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in EU member states through 143 pilot projects. The project will test and offer solutions throughout the patient journey, focusing on prevention, early detection, treatment, care, and self-management.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·DateDec 4, 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.

Recycling concrete using carbon can reduce emissions and waste

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a method to upcycle old broken concrete using graphene, producing strong and durable concrete. The approach is gaining traction as new graphene deposits are discovered and mined, bringing down costs and improving the environmental footprint of concrete production.

SourceFlinders University·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2023

Leukemia cells activate cellular recycling program

A recent study by Goethe University Frankfurt has identified a mechanism that could be a suitable starting point for developing novel drugs against leukemia cells. The researchers discovered that the mutated NPM1 gene variant drives pro-autophagic activity, enabling cancer cells to recycle their structures and meet their needs.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2023

Digital marketplace: The role of probabilistic selling strategies in the travel industry

A novel strategy, probabilistic selling, has proven effective in driving revenue, attracting new users, and managing inventory efficiently in the travel industry. The study finds that this approach enhances market demand and boosts consumer satisfaction, benefiting both the platform and sellers.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Economy and Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 4, 2023

No spike in overdoses with COVID-era expansion of methadone access

A new study by Columbia University researchers indicates that patients with expanded methadone access during the COVID pandemic are not more likely to overdose or drop out of care. The findings suggest that more flexible policies could help improve access to this life-saving treatment and close gaps in care.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 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.

Tiny electromagnets made of ultra-thin carbon

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have developed tiny electromagnets made of ultra-thin carbon, graphene, using terahertz pulses. The graphene discs briefly turned into strong magnets, with magnetic fields in the range of 0.5 Tesla, and showed promise for developing future magnetic switches and storage devices.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2023

Longer training sessions less likely to cause injury to military recruits

A new study by Edith Cowan University found that military recruits who undergo longer training programs are less likely to suffer injuries compared to those with shorter training periods. The research also showed that female recruits and those with a high body mass index (BMI) were at higher risk of injury.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalBMC Sports Science Medicine and Rehabilitation·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 4, 2023

Primary care lessons for Canada from OECD countries

Canada faces a crisis in primary care, with 17% of people reporting no regular clinician before COVID-19. OECD countries have designed their systems for universal access to primary care, a lesson Canada can apply.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 4, 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.

Mortality and morbidity among individuals with hypertension receiving a diuretic, ace inhibitor, or calcium channel blocker

A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial found that cardiovascular disease mortality was similar among individuals with hypertension receiving diuretics, calcium channel blockers, or ACE inhibitors. However, ACE inhibitors were associated with an increased risk of stroke outcomes by 11% compared to diuretics.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 4, 2023