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Science News for February 22, 2023


Sea stars able to consume kelp-eating urchins fast enough to protect kelp forests, research shows

A new study found that sea stars, such as the sunflower sea star, play a crucial role in protecting kelp forests by preying on kelp-eating urchins. The research suggests that these sea stars can consume urchins at rates sufficient to maintain and perhaps reset the health of kelp forests.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 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.

UT Health San Antonio scientists tie obesity to Alzheimer’s-related genes

Researchers found 21 Alzheimer's disease-related genes associated with obesity, including those linked to neuro-inflammation and amyloid-beta protein deposition. Obesity in midlife and women is more closely linked to dementia risk than late life or men.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Parkinson’s disease patients experience significant reduction in symptoms with non-surgical focused ultrasound treatment

A new study led by University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers found that focused ultrasound treatment significantly reduced tremors and improved mobility in Parkinson's patients. Nearly 70% of treated patients showed a successful response after three months, with two-thirds continuing to respond a year later.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 22, 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.

Mechanisms underlying autoimmunity in Down syndrome revealed

Scientists have identified key players in the adaptive immune response as culprits for most autoimmunity in people with Down syndrome. The researchers found that many individuals with Down syndrome are in a perpetual state of inflammation comparable to those without the disorder who are in intensive care.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Stanford-led analysis could help forecast malaria outbreaks

A new Stanford-led study uses satellite and land use data to predict malaria outbreaks in Madagascar, providing insights into the disease's distribution and burden. The research identifies rural areas with flooded rice fields as high-risk zones for malaria transmission.

SourceStanford University·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateFeb 22, 2023

Yeast used in production of cachaça can prevent asthma, study shows

A Brazilian study found that a strain of brewer's yeast can act as a preventive against asthma in male mice. Daily administration of the probiotic at a dose of 10 billion CFU/mL significantly reduced bronchial hypersensitivity and inflammation. However, airway and lung inflammation was not significantly reduced by lower doses.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProbiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins·DateFeb 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Dial for tuning dopamine, environmental signals found in Parkinson’s

A study published in PNAS reveals how environmental signals interact with genetic information to influence brain cell health and survival. The research highlights a protein called TNK2 that tunes dopamine levels, finding mutations lead to Parkinson's degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Alabama in Tuscaloosa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

The myths around consumer financial vulnerability -- and how it affects most consumers at different points in their lives

Consumer financial vulnerability (CFV) is a risk of experiencing future harm given current access to financial resources and future uncertainty. Most consumers across the socioeconomic spectrum experience varying degrees of CFV at different life stages, due to factors like age, economic cycles, and unforeseen crises.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateFeb 22, 2023

Simplified HIV treatment options just as effective: Major clinical trial

A major clinical trial found that two new simplified HIV treatment options are at least as effective as current approaches in achieving viral suppression. These new regimens offer potential benefits in terms of cost, tolerability, and simplification, making them suitable for low- and middle-income countries.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 22, 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.

Keeping babies alive will lower population growth – new research

Research led by Professor Corey Bradshaw found that higher baby death rates and larger household sizes contribute to higher fertility rates, supporting the need for greater access to family planning and contraception. The study suggests that increasing access to quality contraception can help reduce infant mortality and curb population...

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering and the National Academy of Engineering launch new social media news series

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering and National Academy of Engineering launch a weekly social media news network, The Circuit, to promote engineering to the public. The program aims to engage diverse audiences in conversations about engineering and highlight notable engineers and technologies that shape our world.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·TypeNews article·DateFeb 22, 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.

JNM publishes procedure standard/practice guideline for SSTR PET imaging of neuroendocrine tumors

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) have published a new procedure standard/practice guideline for somatostatin receptor (SSTR) PET imaging in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. The guideline focuses on improved sensitivity, lower radiation dose, and sh...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2023

Archaeologists uncover early evidence of brain surgery in Ancient Near East

Archaeologists have discovered the earliest example of angular notched trephination, a type of cranial surgery, in the Ancient Near East. The discovery, made at Megiddo, Israel, suggests that one brother may have had leprosy, making them potentially among the earliest documented examples of the disease.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeCase study·DateFeb 22, 2023

How asylum seeker credibility is assessed by authorities

A University of Copenhagen study examines how data is used in asylum decisions, revealing inconsistencies and discrepancies that can lead to applicants being deemed untrustworthy. The research highlights the opaque nature of the decision-making process and the need for critical evaluation of new data types.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction·DateFeb 22, 2023

A 5-minute PCR, faster than self-diagnosis kits

Scientists have developed a new ultrafast PCR technology that can diagnose diseases in just 5 minutes, faster than self-diagnosis kits. The technology uses photothermal nanomaterials to generate heat and amplify DNA target nucleic acids, offering a rapid and accurate diagnostic method.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 22, 2023

Medical-legal partnerships are valued by immigrant, migrant populations

Researchers found medical-legal partnerships to be highly valued by immigrant and migrant populations. These partnerships provide critical protections for vulnerable individuals, mitigating the impact of immigration status on healthcare access.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 22, 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.

Flash tunning via programmable solid-state metasurfaces: a new platform for modern displays

Scientists have engineered electrically tuneable arrays of nanoparticles called 'metasurfaces' that can offer significant benefits over current liquid crystal displays. The metasurface cells replace the liquid crystal layer, reducing energy consumption by 50% and offering a tenfold greater resolution.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateFeb 22, 2023

‘Antisocial’ damselfish are scaring off cleaner fish customers – and this could contribute to coral reef breakdown

Research from the University of Cambridge and Cardiff University found that damselfish scare off cleaner fish customers, leading to fewer species receiving vital cleaning treatment. This disruption could contribute to the breakdown of delicate ecosystems supported by coral reefs.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBehavioral Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

James Webb spots super old, massive galaxies that shouldn’t exist

An international team of astrophysicists has discovered six potential galaxies emerging in the universe's earliest moments, containing as many stars as the Milky Way. These ancient structures are gigantic and massive, contradicting current cosmological theory, with calculations suggesting they formed hundreds of new stars a year.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 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.

Testing their strength: CAR T-cells combat muscle inflammation

Researchers at Universitätsklinikum Erlangen have successfully treated a patient with anti-synthetase syndrome using CAR T-cells. The innovative treatment approach has shown promising results, allowing the patient to recover entirely from their autoimmune disease after six months.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 22, 2023

Hands-free tech adds realistic sense of touch in extended reality

A new 'multisensory pseudo-haptic' technology delivers believable tactile experiences in virtual environments by combining visual feedback from a VR headset with tactile sensations from a mechanical wristbracelet. This innovation keeps hands free, enabling long-term wear and more realistic user experiences.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

The world’s fastest 2D movie of laser-particle interactions and temperature in flames

Researchers developed a new ultrafast planar imaging camera, capturing the fastest 2D movie of laser-flame dynamics at 12.5 billion frames per second. This achievement overcomes current limitations in combustion science and opens doors to studying various phenomena in physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateFeb 22, 2023

Electric vehicles can go the distance

A study by University of Delaware researchers found that electric vehicles (EVs) with smaller batteries, combined with community charging, can meet the driving needs of a diverse range of drivers. The study analyzed data from 333 gasoline-fueled cars and modeled the ability of EVs to handle similar trips.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnergies·DateFeb 22, 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.

Nanofluidic devices offer solutions for studying single molecule chemical reactions

Researchers have developed nanofluidic devices to study single molecule chemical reactions in solution. These devices provide a test tube-like environment to confine individual molecules and enable high temporal resolution for investigating fast single molecule reactions. By integrating various fields using nanofluidics, scientists can...

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalTrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 22, 2023

Technical adequacy of artificial intelligence body composition assessed in external CT

Automated AI body composition tools achieved high technical adequacy rates (97.8-99.1%) in a large sample of external abdominal CT scans. The results support the generalizability and potential for widespread adoption of these tools, which can help build trust among radiologists and physicians.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Urban friction could strengthen landfalling tropical cyclone precipitation

A new study found that urban friction can strengthen the precipitation of landfalling tropical cyclones, leading to increased vulnerability for coastal cities. Urban surface friction and physical mechanisms make a significant contribution to enhancing rainfall produced by TCs.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2023

Patients identified as frail before surgery less likely to die one year after

Researchers discovered that frail patients who received additional support before and after surgery were 18% less likely to die within a year. By connecting these patients with medical professionals and resources, they can make healthy lifestyle changes and receive guidance on managing their condition without surgical intervention.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateFeb 22, 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.

Children born after induced labour score lower in school tests 12 years later

Research from Amsterdam UMC found a small yet significant reduction in test scores for children born after induced labour from 37 to 41 weeks compared to those born without induction. This could lead to a potentially large impact on society as elective inductions are increasingly common.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Why migraine frequently occurs during menstruation

Research at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin identifies a possible explanation for migraine frequency during menstruation: higher levels of CGRP, a neurotransmitter that triggers migraines. The study found significant differences in CGRP concentrations between women with migraines and those without, suggesting a hormonal link.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 22, 2023

Genetic links between migraine and blood sugar levels confirmed

A recent study published in Human Genetics has confirmed the genetic link between migraine and blood sugar levels, identifying shared loci and genes. The researchers found a significant correlation between fasting insulin and glycated haemoglobin with both migraine and headache.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalHuman Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 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.

Stanford-led study reveals a fifth of California’s Sierra Nevada conifer forests are stranded in habitats that have grown too warm for them

A Stanford-led study estimates that about 20% of all Sierra Nevada conifer forests are mismatched with the climate around them. This means they are temporarily surviving in habitats that have grown too warm for them, but are likely to be replaced by tree species better adapted to the climate after catastrophic wildfires.

SourceStanford University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateFeb 22, 2023

UMass Amherst researchers invent “electronic nose” built with sustainably sourced microbial nanowires that could revolutionize health monitoring

Scientists create wearable sensors using biodegradable nanowires that can detect various chemical tracers, including those associated with asthma and kidney disease. The breakthrough represents a new paradigm in electrical engineering, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional silicon-based nanowires.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateFeb 22, 2023

Study offers details on using electric fields to tune thermal properties of ferroelectric materials

Scientists from NC State University have discovered a way to manipulate the flow of heat through ferroelectric materials by applying different electric fields. The study, published in Advanced Materials, found that varying electric field strengths, types (AC/DC), time, and frequency can alter the thermal properties of these materials.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 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.

Custom, 3D-printed heart replicas look and pump just like the real thing

Researchers have developed a procedure to create custom, 3D-printed heart replicas that accurately mimic a patient's specific heart form and function. These replicas can be controlled to mimic the pumping action of the real heart, allowing clinicians to test various treatment options for individual patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 22, 2023

Mount Sinai researchers discover key role of DNA methylation in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found 270 distinct differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in AD brains compared to normal controls, validating their key findings using an independent cohort. The study offers a novel approach to investigating the relationship between DNA methylation and gene/protein expression.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateFeb 22, 2023

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients suffer significantly higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation than those without IBS

Research highlights the need for holistic treatment of IBS patients' physical and mental tolls, including anxiety (38%) and depression (27%) rates significantly higher than in the general population. Early evaluation and treatment of both conditions is essential to improve patient quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalIrish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 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.

New paper targets prevention of foot and lower limb diseases

A new paper from a team including experts from the University of Huddersfield focuses on the role podiatrists have in preventing the progression of venous diseases, such as varicose veins and varicose eczema. The study highlights an opportunity for podiatry to contribute more overtly towards prevention, which is crucial in the current ...

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalJournal of Foot and Ankle Research·DateFeb 22, 2023

Deep earthquakes could reveal secrets of the Earth’s mantle

Scientists have discovered a layer of fluid rock at the bottom of the upper mantle, which may explain some observed phenomena in seismology. The discovery was made by analyzing data from GPS sensors on islands after a deep earthquake in the Pacific Ocean.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 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.

SLAC, Stanford researchers make a new type of quantum material with a dramatic distortion pattern

Scientists at SLAC and Stanford University have created a new type of quantum material with a herringbone-like pattern, showcasing the Jahn-Teller effect in a layered material. The resulting distortions are huge compared to those achieved in other materials, offering exciting possibilities for further investigation.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Early Cretaceous shift in the global carbon cycle affected both land and sea

A recent geological study has confirmed that major changes in the global carbon cycle occurred on land during the early Cretaceous Period, matching those recorded in marine sedimentary rocks. The research, led by Matt Joeckel of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, used chemical and radioactivity-based analyses to find evidence of two d...

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalGeosciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Second generation gene therapy for alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency

Researchers have developed a new gene therapy to treat alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, an autosomal recessive disorder that causes emphysema. The therapy uses an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector coding for an oxidation-resistant human α1-antitrypsin protein.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 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.

Novel quantum entanglement lets researchers spy on atomic nuclei

Scientists at Ohio State University have made a groundbreaking discovery, allowing them to view inside the deepest recesses of atomic nuclei. By studying how different types of particles interact with each other, they were able to map the arrangement of gluons within atomic nuclei with unprecedented precision.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 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.

Human body proven to predict mealtimes

A recent study published in Current Biology found that the human body can predict regular mealtimes based on physiological changes. The research team discovered that daily blood glucose rhythms may be driven by both meal size and timing, suggesting a physiological drive for some people to eat at certain times.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 22, 2023

Low estrogen levels paired with higher CGRP levels may jump start migraine

A new study found that low estrogen levels are paired with higher calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels in female participants with migraine. Researchers collected blood and tear fluid samples from three groups of women with episodic migraine to determine CGRP concentrations, revealing significant fluctuations during menstruation.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 22, 2023

Climate ‘spiral’ threatens land carbon stores – study

A landmark study found that climate change is causing dramatic changes in forests and other habitats, leading to reduced carbon absorption. Regions with high temperatures, deforestation, and farming are most at risk of abrupt landscape changes, which could lead to permanent loss of forestland.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 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.

What makes the immune systems of prematurely born babies susceptible to deadly infections

Researchers have found that prematurely born babies' immune systems are vulnerable to deadly infections due to an imbalance in immunoregulatory signaling pathways. This imbalance affects the proper functioning of important immune cells, leading to inadequate inflammatory responses and increased susceptibility to infection.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 22, 2023

Aging | Metformin's impact on aging and longevity through DNA methylation

A recent study found that metformin users had distinct DNA methylation profiles compared to non-users, potentially revealing its role in longevity. The research identified several pathways related to delirium and aging, highlighting the need for further investigation into metformin's mechanism of action.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Designing affordable, sustainable high-altitude housing

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are designing a model home to address health challenges associated with living at high altitudes. The project combines local materials, state-of-the-art technology, and traditional Indigenous knowledge to create sustainable and accessible housing.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateFeb 22, 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.

Keck School of Medicine study finds “forever chemicals” disrupt key biological processes

A Keck School of Medicine study found exposure to PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' disrupts key biological processes in children and young adults, increasing risk of diseases such as developmental disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The study highlights the importance of regulating PFAS as a class of chemicals.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Writing on glass and silica indicates novel direction for chiral optical property tailoring

Researchers create novel method for chiral optical property tailoring by employing fs laser 3D direct writing on glass, enabling localized modifications without surrounding damage. The technique utilizes form birefringence and stress field to induce optical chirality, offering a new approach for 3D laser manufacturing.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateFeb 22, 2023

Changes of Tibetan religious activities during the past millennium revealed from lake sediments

Researchers analyzed lake sediments to track changes in Tibetan religious activities over the past millennium, identifying three periods of enhanced activity during the mid-Ming Dynasty, late Qing Dynasty, and Republic of China. The study suggests that regional religious practices have a significant impact on ecological environments.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 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.

Terminal sterilization of oligonucleotide drug products

The article reviews current terminal sterilization processes for oligonucleotide drug products and provides recommendations for formulation development and container closure selection. Terminal sterilization improves sterility assurance compared to membrane sterilization, but limitations exist.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·TypeCase study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Clever orchard design for more nuts

A study by the University of Göttingen found that arranging rows of trees at right angles to semi-natural habitats increases pollination performance and nut production. The design also promotes easy movement of bees through the plantation.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Artificial intelligence conjures proteins that speed up chemical reactions

Researchers used machine-learning algorithms to design new light-emitting enzymes called luciferases that can efficiently recognize specific chemicals and emit light. This breakthrough could lead to custom enzymes for a wide range of applications in biotechnology, medicine, environmental remediation, and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 22, 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.

Research team creates statistical model to predict Covid-19 resistance

Researchers created a statistical model to predict who is resistant to COVID-19, using health characteristics from electronic records. The model identified patterns in patients with similar features, suggesting that genetic and environmental differences influence their defense against the virus.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2023

Climate change, urbanization drive major declines in L.A.’s birds

A new study reveals that climate change and urbanization have dramatically impacted bird populations in Los Angeles and the Central Valley. In L.A., more than one-third of bird species have declined over the past century, while the Central Valley saw a mix of winners and losers. The study used current and historical bird surveys to ana...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 2023

Charity begins at home as far as international aid is concerned

A new study by the University of Portsmouth found that UK development policy has shifted from focusing on poverty and conflict to prioritizing national security interests. This shift has led to reduced aid to Africa and a narrower focus on the national interest.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCanadian Journal of Development Studies/Revue canadienne d études du développement·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 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.

This new sensor can detect mercury ions with just a tap (video)

Researchers have developed a self-powered nanosensor that can detect small amounts of mercury ions by tapping it into a sample solution. The sensor uses the triboelectric effect to generate electricity and signal the presence of mercury ions in real-time.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 22, 2023

Economic crises can accelerate decarbonization

Researchers found that economic crises can trigger long-lasting decarbonization processes through increased energy efficiency, structural changes, and shifts towards renewable energy sources. Countries that have already implemented ambitious climate policies have been particularly adept in times of crisis.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 2023

Is living close to parks, water better for your brain?

A preliminary study by Washington State University found that people living within half a mile of green spaces had a 17% lower risk of serious psychological distress. The study involved 42,980 participants aged 65 or older and used data from the U.S. Census and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 22, 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.

RIPE researchers put plant protein mechanism into bacteria to help move forward 50 years of effort

A team from Australian National University has modified the protein folding properties of bacteria by adding multiple components from plant chloroplasts. This enables them to study and speed up plant Rubisco, a slow protein that requires 'chaperones' for operation.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateFeb 22, 2023

Passerine bird takes advantage of human settlements

Daurian redstarts move their nests closer to human settlements when cuckoos are around to protect against brood parasitism. This strategy has been observed in a population of Daurian redstarts in northeastern China, illustrating how urbanization affects interspecific interactions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 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.

After 25 years of AI health tech research computers are slowly beginning to listen to patients

A review of 25 years of AI health tech research found that only 24% of studies include patient-reported outcomes, but there has been an increase in recent years. Experts emphasize the importance of integrating patient voices into AI models to support personalized care and prevent digitalization of healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 22, 2023

How Iceland could have a starring role as a sustainable alternative protein exporter to Northern Europe

A feasibility study suggests that Iceland can produce enough Spirulina to feed six million Europeans every year, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and freshwater withdrawals. The country's industrial-scale biomass cultivation system powered by renewable energy could support Northern European countries in achieving protein self-sufficie...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalFoods·DateFeb 22, 2023

U.S. study of intravenous mistletoe extract to treat advanced cancer

Researchers found that dose escalation to 600mg of ME improved disease control in five patients, while stable disease was observed in another five patients with an average duration of 15 weeks. Additionally, patients reported overall improved quality of life via a questionnaire.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Research Communications·DateFeb 22, 2023

Two high status brothers had access to “brain surgery” in Bronze Age Israel

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that two elite brothers from Late Bronze Megiddo, Israel, had access to trephination, a rare brain surgery procedure, around 1500 BC. The brothers' tomb contained evidence of chronic disease and advanced bone lesions, suggesting they survived due to their wealth and status.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 22, 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.

Anti-dust tech paves way for self-cleaning surfaces

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a new method to create dust-resistant surfaces using nanocoining and nanoimprinting techniques. The resulting surfaces can clean themselves due to their tightly packed pyramid-shaped structures, which prevent dust particles from sticking to the material.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 22, 2023

Scientists warn: When restoring historical paintings, be careful with polar solvents

Researchers warn conservators about the risks of polar solvents containing water in historical oil paintings. Traces of water accelerate the formation of metal soap crystals, reducing mechanical stability and causing paint to crack and flake. The study provides a new spectroscopic method to estimate zinc soap crystallization risk.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2023

WVU physicists give the first law of thermodynamics a makeover

Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a new theory that extends the first law of thermodynamics to systems not in equilibrium. This breakthrough has numerous potential applications across physics and other sciences, including studying plasmas in space and low-temperature plasmas.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 22, 2023

Over 18 percent of Maryland households are burdened by high energy bills

A new report by researchers from IEER and PSE Healthy Energy estimates that 400,000 Maryland households face high energy bills exceeding six percent of their income. The study suggests that investing in efficiency and clean energy for low-income households can save billions compared to bill assistance alone.

SourcePSE Healthy Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 22, 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.

Shock to the system

A University of Utah study shows that certain wearable gadgets with bioimpedance technology can interfere with implantable cardiac electronic devices, potentially leading to incorrect functioning or electric shocks. The research highlights a need for further clinical studies to assess the risks and ensure patient health.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateFeb 22, 2023

Does a child’s mathematical ability have a genetic basis?

A new study published in Genes, Brain and Behavior found that genetic variants in LINGO2, OAS1, and HECTD1 are associated with different mathematical abilities in Chinese children. The study refined genome-wide association studies of math skills and added population diversity to the literature.

SourceWiley·JournalGenes Brain & Behavior·DateFeb 22, 2023

First transient electronic bandage speeds healing by 30%

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a first-of-its-kind small, flexible, stretchable bandage that accelerates healing by delivering electrotherapy directly to the wound site. The bandage healed diabetic ulcers 30% faster than in mice without the bandage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 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.

Ramping up domestic graphite production could aid the green energy transition

The study found that the US uses mostly synthetic graphite, which is produced from fossil fuel industry by-products, while natural graphite is sourced from mines and imported. The researchers suggest increasing domestic production and recycling of graphite-containing products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 22, 2023

Out of the blue

The study finds that aquatic foods are rich in essential nutrients, potentially diminishing malnutrition and heart disease risks. Implementing blue food policies can also promote a more environmentally friendly and sustainable food system.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 2023