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Science News for February 13, 2023


Study reveals optimum time to apply eco-friendly biopesticides to tackle Oriental migratory locust pest

Researchers from the Chinese MARA-CABI Joint Laboratory have discovered the optimum time to apply safer-to-use biopesticides to fight the Oriental migratory locust pest. The study, published in Frontiers in Physiology, found that applying biopesticides on younger locusts at dawn or dusk is most effective due to lower body temperatures.

SourceCABI·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

Do forest trees really “talk” through underground fungi?

Researchers found no strong evidence that underground fungal networks, known as common mycorrhizal networks (CMNs), offer benefits to trees and their seedlings. While CMNs exist, there is limited understanding of their structure and function in the field, leading to questionable claims about resource transfer and seedling survival.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 13, 2023

Nature close to home associated with well-being during COVID

A new study from Cornell University found that enjoying nature close to home is associated with improved mental well-being during the COVID pandemic. The research suggests that even short periods of time spent in nature can have beneficial effects on emotional and mental health.

SourceCornell University·JournalPeople and Nature·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 13, 2023

Black girls benefit most when STEM teachers train up

A study by Rice University found that students in classes taught by STEM teachers who received professional development training were more likely to pursue STEM majors in college. Black female students showed the greatest increase, with nearly double the percentage of non-AMP! teachers.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of STEM Outreach·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 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.

Nightly sleep is key to student success

A recent study at Carnegie Mellon University discovered that students who receive less than six hours of sleep per night experience a pronounced decline in academic performance. The study, which tracked over 600 first-year college students, found that each hour of lost sleep corresponded to a 0.07 decrease in end-of-term GPA.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2023

Time of day may determine the amount of fat burned by exercise

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that exercising in the early active phase increased gene expression involved in fat breakdown and thermogenesis, leading to a higher metabolic rate. This effect was independent of food intake and may prove beneficial for people who are overweight.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 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.

The carbon intensive shipping activities on the high seas could become a potential barrier against the worldwide carbon mitigation and sustainability efforts

A recent study found that high seas shipping accounts for one-third of all shipping emissions, with annual CO2-e emissions reaching 211.60 million metric tonnes in 2019. The study suggests implementing tailored carbon mitigation policies in different high seas regions could reduce emissions by up to 54.36 million tonnes.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 13, 2023

Study suggests fructose could drive Alzheimer’s disease

A study suggests that fructose metabolism in the brain may be driving the development of Alzheimer's disease, an evolutionary survival pathway gone awry. Researchers found that fructose reduces blood flow to areas involved in self-control and memory, leading to progressive brain atrophy and neuron loss.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Take a 30-minutes afternoon nap for a mid-day refresh and memory boost

Researchers found that a 30-minute mid-afternoon nap had the best balance of practicability and benefit, while shorter naps still improved mood, alertness, and memory encoding. The study suggests allocating at least 40 minutes for sleep to fall asleep.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalSLEEP·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

The era of globalization isn’t over, new study argues

A recent study by University of Waterloo researchers argues that globalization is far from over, contradicting widespread fears of a US-China rivalry. The authors suggest that the economic and technological costs of such a rivalry would be too high, hurting consumers worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of International Business Studies·DateFeb 13, 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.

Out with the old, in with the new? Exploring differences in elite mobility during the Meiji Restoration

A new study by Tokyo University of Science researchers examines the connection between political regime changes and social mobility during the Meiji Restoration. The results show that social mobility increased before the consolidation of a new political power, with meritocracy playing a key role in this period.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalBritish Journal of Sociology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 13, 2023

Method found for analysing complex, tiny crystals

Researchers at Universität Leipzig have developed a new method to analyze complex, tiny crystals like phosphorus oxide nitride. The technique successfully uncovers the structure of previously difficult-to-analyze compounds, offering potential for novel phosphors in future studies.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 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.

Overweight and obesity prevalent and poorly managed among adults with type 1 diabetes

A recent study found that adults with type 1 diabetes are at a high risk of being overweight or obese, but only half receive lifestyle recommendations to manage their weight. The study also highlighted the importance of individualized patient education in improving weight management for these patients.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023

Atom-thin walls could smash size, memory barriers in next-gen devices

Researchers have discovered a way to construct and control oxygen-deprived walls in nanoscopically thin materials, which can store data in multiple electronic dialects. These walls can retain their data states even when devices turn off, paving the way for next-gen electronics with enhanced memory capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalNature·DateFeb 13, 2023

Is spontaneous sex better? New research casts doubt on commonly held belief

A recent study by York University researchers found no correlation between planned and spontaneous sex, suggesting that people's beliefs about the ideal of spontaneous sex do not translate to actual satisfaction with their last sexual encounter. Intentionality behind planning sex can be transformative in keeping the spark alive.

SourceYork University·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 13, 2023

Urban birds prefer native trees

A long-term study from Lund University in Sweden found that native trees are preferred by urban birds due to their availability of resources. Non-native trees lack an evolutionary history with the local ecosystem and have fewer insects, leading to a shortage of food for insectivorous birds.

SourceLund University·JournalOecologia·DateFeb 13, 2023

Scientific AI’s ‘black box’ is no match for 200-year-old method

A new study uses Fourier analysis to understand how deep neural networks learn complex physics. By analyzing the equation of a fully trained model, researchers were able to identify crucial information about how the network learns and generalizes. This breakthrough could accelerate the use of scientific deep learning in climate science.

SourceRice University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 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.

The relationship between ghosting and closure

A recent study found nearly two-thirds of participants have ghosted someone, and individuals with a high need for closure reported even lower needs satisfaction after being ghosted. On the other hand, those who wanted closure felt more positive when recalled times they were acknowledged by their partner.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateFeb 13, 2023

Reign of invasive rusty crayfish may be ending; Wisconsin lakes rejoice

A new study suggests that the invasive rusty crayfish may be dying off naturally, allowing native water plants and snails to flourish. In some Northern Wisconsin lakes, crayfish populations have declined by nearly zero, leading to a resurgence of plant life and potential ecosystem recovery.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEcological Applications·DateFeb 13, 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.

Study Identifies Changes in the Brain Responsible for Motor Skill Learning

Researchers studied brain activity in rats as they learned a fine motor task, discovering synchronous low-frequency oscillatory activity that coordinated neural spiking in the motor cortex and cerebellum. This activity may serve as a biomarker for skill learning and a target for electric stimulation to promote motor recovery after stroke.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournaleNeuro·DateFeb 13, 2023

Who are the first ancestors of present-day fish?

Scientists sequenced genomes of 'eel' species to reconstruct relationships between teleost fishes, ending decades-long controversy over their evolutionary history. The analysis revealed a single group, Eloposteoglossocephala, that encompasses both eels and bony-tongues.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2023

Drug alleviates autism-associated behavior in mice

A new drug has shown promising results in reversing autism-associated behaviors in mice by blocking sodium channels. The study, conducted at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), found that a specific drug was able to alleviate functional and behavioral abnormalities in mice with MYT1L-deficient nerve cells.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 13, 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.

New model identifies women at high risk for endometrial cancer

A new study developed a predictive model to identify high-risk women for endometrial cancer, suggesting that epidemiologic factors can be used to determine risk. The model was trained on pooled data from an international consortium and validated in three large U.S.-based cohorts.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023

Healthy kidneys might be key to surviving malaria

A study by Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência reveals that when acute kidney injury and anemia occur simultaneously, they substantially increase a patient's risk of death. The research shows healthy kidneys can alter their genetic program to absorb and store iron, re-establishing the development of red blood cells.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 13, 2023

Dispersed marketing responsibility enhances the profitability of firms in the early stages of their operations

A recent study found that dispersing marketing responsibility between personnel groups in early-stage operations promotes market orientation and improves profitability. Young firms should avoid rigid structures, instead focusing on information flow to support marketing in the early stages.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of the Academy of Marketing Science·DateFeb 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.

Surfing the research data wave

The EnzymeML format provides a standardized way to record enzymatic experiment results, including conditions, data, kinetic models, and parameters. This enables seamless communication between experimental platforms and promotes reproducibility and trust in scientific results.

SourceUniversitaet Stuttgart·JournalNature Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023

Study reveals how CBD counters epileptic seizures

A study reveals how CBD reduces seizures in pediatric epilepsy by blocking signals carried by lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI), a molecule that can amplify nerve signals and promote seizures. The research provides new insights into the mechanisms behind seizures and suggests potential targets for future drugs.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Health: Free sugars associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease

A recent study published in BMC Medicine found that higher consumption of free sugars is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers analyzed data from 110,497 individuals and found that consuming more free sugar, particularly from sugary drinks and sweets, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. In...

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateFeb 13, 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.

Efficient technique improves machine-learning models’ reliability

Researchers at MIT developed a technique to improve machine-learning models' reliability without requiring additional data or extensive computing resources. The method uses a simpler companion model to estimate uncertainty, enabling more effective uncertainty quantification.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 13, 2023

How teamwork makes superbugs more deadly and drug-resistant

Researchers have characterised the mutually beneficial relationship between Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, two pathogens responsible for severe infections. This relationship enables Klebsiella to survive in higher antibiotic concentrations, making it more deadly and resistant to treatment.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Study reveals biodiversity engine for fishes: shifting water depth

A new Yale study reveals that fish species diversify most rapidly in colder climates at higher latitudes where they can transition between shallow and deep waters. However, climate change is expected to impede this process, posing a threat to the high biodiversity found in tropical waters.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 13, 2023

Understanding the magic of movie watching in the brain: The goal of a research led by the University of Oxford and UPF

The study shows that watching movies engages necessary brain circuitry for pleasure and motivation, temporarily freeing the mind from stress and problem-solving. This provides new insights into complex changes in brain hierarchy, with potential applications in understanding neuropsychiatric disorders.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 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.

Global comparison shows: Soil transplantation boosts nature restoration

A global comparison of soil transplantation projects reveals significant improvements in restoring vegetations with high conservation value. The treatment increased species count and diversity by an average of 40% compared to hay addition, particularly on loamy soils over larger areas.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023

Urban gardens are good for ecosystems and humans

A new study from researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that community gardens and urban farms support incredibly high levels of plant and animal biodiversity. These gardens also provide numerous ecosystem services, including pollination, carbon sequestration, and food production, while increasing human well-being.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEcology Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Researchers solve a 150-year-old mystery

A team from the University of Bonn has solved a 150-year-old mystery surrounding Aetosaurs' age. Bone examination reveals that two specimens were juvenile, not small adults as previously thought. The discovery attributes this to social behavior among juvenile Aetosaur species.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Researchers engineer spinal cord-like tissue with drug-guiding function for spinal cord injury repair

A research team at Chinese Academy of Sciences creates a spinal cord-like implant with covalent conjugation between biomaterials and cells, promoting cell retention and neural regeneration in rats after spinal cord injury. The study's findings have potential implications for human spinal cord tissue engineering therapy.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

UVA Health, local healthcare groups partner to expand care

A new program, backed by a $1.5 million grant, provides education and training on stroke care for paramedics and healthcare providers in seven Central Virginia counties. The program aims to reduce disparities in stroke deaths among non-Hispanic Black individuals in these communities.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateFeb 13, 2023

Seasonal and circadian genetic variation charted across the human body

A study analyzed gene expression data from 46 different human tissues to understand the impact of circadian and circannual cycles on human health. The research revealed that certain genes have strong diurnal or seasonal preferences, which could inform effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

What is the impact of replacing short-haul flights on CO2 emissions and international connectivity?

A study by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) finds that replacing short-haul flights with rail in Germany could reduce CO2 emissions by 2.7-22%. However, this policy may also harm international connectivity, particularly for peripheral regions and passengers with limited onward connections.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalCase Studies on Transport Policy·TypeCase study·DateFeb 13, 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.

NiS2/FeS heterostructured nanoflowers for high-performance sodium storage

Researchers designed unique NiS2/FeS heterostructures to address sodium-ion battery drawbacks, exhibiting improved high-rate performance and cycling stability. DFT calculations confirmed the enhanced performance due to the strong internal electric field at the interface.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Bright orange lichens can use their pigments as a ‘sunscreen’

Researchers have discovered that fungi in orange lichens can transport toxic pigments out of their cells, creating a 'sunscreen effect'. This mechanism allows the lichens to reflect harmful radiation while still allowing some solar radiation to pass through for photosynthesis.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 13, 2023

Low brain pressure could be a risk factor for developing glaucoma

A recent clinical study reveals a correlation between low intracranial pressure and impaired patient visibility, especially in the nasal zone. Higher translaminar pressure difference is estimated as a risk factor for normal tension glaucoma development.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalDiagnostics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Children use the same brain network as adults for tough problems

A study by Ohio State University found that children as young as 4 years old utilize a brain network, known as the multiple demand network, to tackle difficult cognitive problems. This network enables focus, memory management, and problem-solving skills, similar to those seen in adults.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

New study may help to explain smell challenges in individuals with autism

Researchers from New York Institute of Technology have made significant findings on how the sense of smell is impacted in individuals with autism. The study analyzed a mouse model of autism and found that scent processing was impaired at a later step, after signals were processed at the olfactory bulb input.

SourceNew York Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 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.

Ohio University professor Jennifer Hines and her research group uncovers new class of medicinal compounds that target RNA

A team of researchers led by Ohio University professor Jennifer Hines has uncovered a new class of compounds that can target RNA and disrupt its function. The discovery identified a chemical scaffold that could be used to develop RNA-targeted medicines for various diseases.

SourceOhio University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2023

Research aims to expand understanding of link between chronic stress and heart disease, among other age-related conditions

A University of Massachusetts Amherst epidemiologist is leading a team to better understand the effects of chronic stress on future health risks. They will examine metabolites in blood samples from a large, racially diverse population to identify potential biomarkers for heart disease, diabetes and cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateFeb 13, 2023

Neurosteroid deficits leads to depressed behavior

A study in mice found that chronic stress impairs allopregnanolone production, a key neurosteroid involved in regulating emotions. This finding suggests that synthetic neurosteroid analogs might exert a beneficial effect in individuals with depression.

SourceTufts University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 13, 2023

Does risk for heart disease start before birth?

Research highlights the intergenerational impact of prepregnancy heart health on offspring, with low pre-pregnancy cardiovascular health linked to pregnancy complications and higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Improving women's heart health before pregnancy could reduce these risks and have a positive impact on future generations.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 13, 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.

Creating 3D objects with sound

Researchers at Max Planck Institute and Heidelberg University have developed a technology to assemble matter in 3D using sound waves. They successfully printed microparticles, gel beads, and biological cells into three-dimensional shapes, paving the way for novel 3D cell culture techniques.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

For leaders, playing favorites can be a smart strategy

In well-structured teams, favoritism by leaders leads to decreased performance, while in less clearly structured teams, it improves coordination and overall performance. This research offers guidance for managers on how to optimize team dynamics and send clear signals about roles within the team.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalPersonnel Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Ingestible sensor could help doctors pinpoint GI difficulties

Engineers at MIT and Caltech have developed an ingestible sensor that can track its location as it moves through the digestive tract, revealing where slowdowns in digestion may occur. The sensor uses a magnetic field produced by an electromagnetic coil outside the body to calculate its position.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 13, 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.

Nickel laden black gold converts CO2 to chemicals using solar energy and green hydrogen

Researchers at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research developed a plasmonic black gold-nickel catalyst that efficiently converts CO2 into chemicals using solar energy and green hydrogen. The catalyst shows a multifold increase in catalytic activity, achieving a high production rate of 2464±40 mmol g−1 h−1 with over 95% selectivity.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 13, 2023

European big cat population threatened with extinction as genetics show the population is near collapse

A genetic study reveals that the Eurasian lynx population in France is critically endangered, with a mere 38 healthy breeding individuals. The low genetic diversity poses a significant threat to the species' survival, and urgent action is needed to introduce new genetic material and protect the remaining population.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Conservation Science·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Tracking the happiness hormone

A team of scientists has created an implantable microsensor that can measure serotonin levels in the brain in real-time without deactivation. This breakthrough could improve diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses. The sensor uses galvanic redox potentiometry to detect serotonin concentrations over a broad range.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Oldest spinosaur brains revealed

Researchers have reconstructed the brains of two British spinosaurs, uncovering details about their sensory abilities and brain organization. The study suggests that early spinosaurs retained many aspects of common theropod brains, challenging previous assumptions about their semi-aquatic lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Anatomy·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 13, 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.

Conundrum solved over HPV link with head and neck cancer

A major international trial found that patients with 'discordant' HPV test results, where the two types of tests show different results, have significantly worse outcomes than those who tested negative in both tests. The study also found that smoking status is a significant factor, with smokers at higher risk of worse outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023

Digital gift cards are easy to use, hard to lose – but givers still avoid them

Research by Julian Givi and colleagues found that givers tend to avoid digital gift cards due to concerns about violating social norms. However, recipients prefer digital gift cards for their ease of use and lower risk of loss. The study suggests that retailers can promote digital gift cards through occasion-based promotions.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalPsychology and Marketing·DateFeb 13, 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.

Chiral phonons create spin current without needing magnetic materials

Chiral phonons convert waste heat into spin information, promising energy-efficient devices for computing and data storage. Researchers created a spin current at room temperature without magnetic materials, opening the door to cheaper, more accessible spintronic devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

NYUAD researcher and colleagues develop novel “smart pills” that improve the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders

Researchers have developed a new system to facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal motility disorders. The ingestible 'smart pill' tracks movement through the GI tract using magnetic fields, allowing for more accurate and efficient diagnosis and targeted therapeutic interventions.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 13, 2023

Coral reefs in the Eastern Pacific could survive into the 2060s, new study finds

A new study found that some coral reefs in the Eastern Pacific could maintain high coral cover into the 2060s by shuffling symbiotic algae communities. The reefs predominantly built by corals in the genus Pocillopora and hosting heat-tolerant alga Durusdinium glynnii are better equipped to survive and maintain high levels of coral cover.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Smart necklace to help you stop smoking

A smart necklace called SmokeMon tracks a user's every puff and provides valuable insights into their smoking behavior. By analyzing heat signatures, the device can detect when a cigarette is being lit, how much smoke is inhaled, and when the person holds it to their mouth, helping to prevent relapse and improve quit rates.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·DateFeb 13, 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.

A sense of purpose may have significant impact on teens' emotional well-being

Adolescents who feel a stronger sense of purpose tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives, according to a recent study. The research also found that daily fluctuations in feelings of purposefulness have a significant impact on teens' emotional well-being.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 13, 2023

A more healthful, gluten-free flour made from sweet potatoes

Researchers have developed a new gluten-free flour made from orange sweet potatoes that is rich in antioxidants and has potential uses in fermented products and baked goods. The team found that grinding the flour at different temperatures and methods produced distinct properties, with single-grind flours ideal for breads and double-gri...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Food Science & Technology·DateFeb 13, 2023

Telemedicine reduces hospital transfers for very ill kids at rural, community emergency departments

A new study by UC Davis Health confirms that pediatric critical care telemedicine consults result in significantly fewer interfacility transfers for critically ill children. The study found that 84% of patients assigned to telemedicine were transferred, compared to 90.6% for those with telephone consultations.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 13, 2023

Asphalt volcano communities

Researchers document diverse assemblage of fish species living on asphalt volcanoes in the Santa Barbara Channel, characterized by low densities and high diversity rates. The team's findings highlight the unique nature of these habitats and emphasize the need for conservation efforts to protect them.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalBulletin of Marine Science·DateFeb 13, 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.

Microbes that co-operate contribute more carbon emissions

Research from Imperial College London and University of Exeter reveals that cooperative microbial communities release more carbon dioxide than competitive ones, contributing significantly to climate change. This finding has far-reaching implications for understanding the impact of temperature changes on global carbon cycles.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 13, 2023

AI supports doctors’ hard decisions on cardiac arrest

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed three AI-based decision support systems for cardiac arrest care, which can help doctors identify key factors affecting patient outcomes. The tools are based on large datasets and provide accuracy rates of up to 95% in predicting patient survival or death.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2023

Blood cancer manipulates immune cells in order to survive

Researchers have found that blood cancer tumours use signals to attract certain types of immune cells and instruct them not to attack. High concentrations of these cell clusters predict treatment failure, but a different microenvironment is associated with treatment success.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 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.

What’s your gut telling you?

Researchers have created a tiny pill-like electromagnetic device that can provide medical professionals with diagnostic information about the inner workings of the gastrointestinal tract. The device, when swallowed, delivers data to a smartphone as it passes through the body using electromagnetic technology similar to MRI machines.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 13, 2023

Chicken of the sea

A study by UC Santa Barbara researchers found that 95% of the cumulative environmental footprint of farmed chicken and salmon is concentrated on less than 5% of the planet, with 85.5% spatial overlap between the two products due to shared feed ingredients. This highlights opportunities for promoting sustainability in the food system.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 13, 2023

Mother’s blessing: microbiota from mothers regulates lung immunity in newborns

A new study discovered that maternal γδ T cells influence the transfer of microorganisms during birth and nursing, impacting lung immune response in newborns. This discovery highlights the role of gut microbiota in modulating lung immunity and has implications for understanding the first breath response.

SourceInstituto de Medicina Molecular·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Discovery could lead to new fungicides to protect rice crops

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that a fungus secretes an enzyme that punches holes in rice leaves, making it vulnerable to chemical blockers. The team is now screening chemicals to find ones that block the enzyme's ability to digest plant cell walls.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Surrey Space Centre lands £400k UK Space Agency award to boost space-related enterprise in Surrey and Hampshire skills and facilities as part of the Space South Central regional program

The University of Surrey's Surrey Space Centre has secured funding to enhance its facilities, train dedicated engineers, and support the development of space-related technology. The initiative aims to address skills gaps in the region's thriving space industry, fostering collaboration between academia and businesses.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·DateFeb 13, 2023

Moffitt researchers discover new pathways to activate dendritic cells, produce strong anti-tumor immunity

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute discovered a new way to activate dendritic cells, which can produce strong anti-tumor immunity. The approach uses an oncolytic virus expressing CD40 ligand and IFNβ, reducing tumor size and activating immune cells in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCancer Immunology Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 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.

How brains synchronize during cooperative tasks

Researchers employed computer vision to extract social behaviors and linked them to brain synchronization patterns in a novel approach. During cooperative play, brain synchronization was strongest when participants shared gaze, while individual play showed increased within-brain synchronization.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateFeb 13, 2023

How to make hydrogen straight from seawater – no desalination required

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a method to produce hydrogen directly from seawater, skipping the need for desalination and reducing carbon emissions. The new approach uses a special catalyst that can be manufactured cost-effectively and has promise to significantly reduce the cost of electrolysers.

SourceRMIT University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

Heart failure places a great strain on healthcare

A multinational study of over 600,000 heart failure patients found that the disease is relatively fatal, with an average annual death rate of 13%, and results in high healthcare costs. The study also identified new treatment opportunities for heart failure with preserved left ventricular function.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalHeart·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Chromo-encryption method encodes secrets with color

Researchers developed a new encryption method that encodes secret messages using brilliant colors created by silver nanostructures reacting to polarized light. The method's unique chiral response makes it more secure than traditional binary codes.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Previously unknown cell mechanism could help counter cancer and aging

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a new mechanism, called H2A-H2B mediated epigenetic memory, that helps cells preserve their information and functionality during division. This discovery could lead to new treatments for cancer and aging by modulating cellular processes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023

Certain environmental pollutants increase the risk of developing COVID-19

A recent study has linked high levels of certain chemical pollutants to an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 disease. The research found that individuals with higher blood concentrations of specific pollutants were more likely to become infected and develop the disease.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 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.

Lung cancer study finds new target for treatment resistance after EGFR inhibitors

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have identified CD70 as a novel therapeutic target for eliminating drug-resistant cancer cells in EGFR-mutant non-small cell lung cancer. CD70 targeting strategies showed significant anti-tumor activity, eliminating resistant cells in laboratory models.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 13, 2023

New funding proposal aims to reduce bottlenecks on Upper Mississippi River

A new funding proposal for a major rehabilitation of the 27 locks and dams on the Upper Mississippi River suggests a public-private partnership to finance the project. The plan, proposed by Iowa State University's Yoshinori Suzuki, could pay off in the long run and reduce delays and bottlenecks for shippers.

SourceIowa State University·JournalTransportation Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2023

Let them eat cake?: Study reveals grandparents spoil grandchildren with sugar-loaded foods and drinks

A new study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that grandparents often spoil grandchildren with sugary foods and drinks, increasing the risk of oral and overall health issues. The study highlights the importance of having 'treats in moderation' conversations with grandparents to promote healthy habits.

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 13, 2023

DNA damage levels similar in vapers and smokers, study finds

A new study from the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that vaping and smoking both cause significant DNA damage in oral epithelial cells. The frequency and duration of vaping were associated with increased levels of DNA damage, which is linked to chronic diseases such as cancer and inflammatory conditions.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023