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Science News for February 27, 2023


To promote exercise, planners must look beyond cities

Researchers from Cornell University recommend that planners in suburban and rural communities focus on promoting recreational programs, expanding transportation options, and creating safer environments to help an aging population get more exercise. The study found that demographic factors, such as minority populations and lower incomes...

SourceCornell University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 27, 2023

How common is face blindness?

A new study by Harvard Medical School suggests that face blindness, a condition where individuals struggle to recognize faces, may be more common than previously thought. The research estimates that as many as one in 33 people (3.08%) meet the criteria for face blindness, affecting over 10 million Americans.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCortex·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Watch weekend tech as teens settle into school

A recent study from the University of South Australia found that teenagers with a 'late sleep chronotype' who use technology before bed on weekends are at greater risk of disturbed sleep. This can lead to a serious sleep deficit, negatively impacting their daily tasks and wellbeing.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChild and Adolescent Mental Health·TypeCase study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Improving diagnosis of chronic lung, ear and sinus infections in young children

University of Southampton researchers propose a new method for diagnosing primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) in young children using nasal nitric oxide measurement while they breathe normally. This approach aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment, reducing the need for invasive procedures and enhancing patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 27, 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.

Political ideology plays role in how people view boundaries

Researchers found that conservatives tend to view boundaries as restrictions, whereas liberals see them as guidelines. The study also showed that emphasizing the structural aspect of boundaries can make them more appealing to conservatives.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Chaos on the nanometer scale

Researchers at TU Wien have detected clear indications of chaos in chemical reactions on nanometer-scale rhodium crystals, a phenomenon previously unseen in atomic scale systems. The coupling behavior can be controlled by changing the hydrogen concentration, leading to a transition from ordered to chaotic behavior.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Midwifery care safe for moderate- and high-risk pregnancies

A new UBC study reveals midwives provide safe primary care for all medical risk levels, with comparable or improved birth outcomes. Midwives also assist with lower caesarean delivery rates and collaborate with specialists.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2023

Science virtual event on March 1: Promising RSV Vaccines on the Horizon

Promising RSV vaccines are nearing FDA approval, thanks to a 2013 discovery that enabled the development of vaccines leveraging insights from structural biology. The event features the scientists behind this breakthrough and their perspective on this milestone.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 27, 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.

Climate trends in the west, today and 11,000 years ago

A recent study synthesizes climate trends across the Western US during the Holocene Era, revealing that the hallmarks of California's climate began around 4,000 years ago. The study also sheds light on human-caused climate change and its impact on regional resilience.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalClimate of the Past·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 27, 2023

Nanomedicine targeting hypothalamic lipid metabolism can be a potential approach for controlling obesity

A new nanomedicine platform targets brain lipid metabolism to reduce food intake and body weight in mice, offering a promising approach for managing metabolic diseases like obesity. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of this novel treatment, which could potentially provide an innovative solution for controlling energy balance.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalBiomaterials Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

A gender perspective on the global migration of scholars - report

A global study of scientific migration reveals female researchers originate from and move to fewer countries, migrating shorter distances than their male counterparts. Gender inequality among mobile scientists varies across countries and over time.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2023

Amazon develops algorithm to improve collaboration between robots and humans

A new study by Amazon uses robotics and operations research to enable humans and robots to work together effectively, reducing distance traveled by robots by 62% and resulting in $500 million in annual savings. The algorithm has also reduced storage footprint by 29%, leading to more efficient use of space and a productive human workforce.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalINFORMS Journal on Applied Analytics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 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.

Forgoing one food treats eosinophilic esophagitis as well as excluding six

A new study found that eliminating animal milk alone from the diet of adults with eosinophilic esophagitis is just as effective as eliminating six common foods, including animal milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and nuts. The one-food elimination diet may be a more manageable option for people with EoE.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateFeb 27, 2023

Indoor ‘queen banking’ could help beekeepers deal with changing climate

Researchers found that indoor refrigeration units increased queen survival rates and reduced maintenance needs compared to outdoor storage. The study suggests that 'queen banking' could be a key strategy for strengthening honey bee survival in the face of a changing climate.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Apicultural Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Consulting Dr. YouTube: How digital misinformation may keep you from a good night’s sleep

A Brigham and Women's Hospital study reveals that popular YouTube videos on sleep health often contain misinformation, despite expert-led content receiving significantly fewer views. The study highlights the prevalence of consumer bias in popular videos, which may lead to patients avoiding care or receiving wrong care.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2023

Human-wildlife conflicts rising worldwide with climate change

A new study reveals climate-driven conflicts between humans and wildlife are on the rise globally, with six continents experiencing exacerbation of these conflicts. The research identifies trends in human-wildlife conflicts linked to climate change, including altered animal habitats, resource availability, and changes in wildlife behav...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 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.

Personal psychedelic use may be common among psychedelic therapists

A study of psychedelic therapists found that most had personal experience with psychedelics, which raises concerns about their use in therapy. The survey of 150 therapists involved in a psilocybin trial for depression reported widespread use of psychedelic compounds.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPsychedelic Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Towards a new antenna paradigm with waveform-selective metasurfaces

A team of researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology introduced a new system using metasurfaces to create waveform-based selectivity in antennas. They demonstrated that their antenna design could selectively receive and transmit signals with different waveforms at the same frequency.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

LSU Health New Orleans pain protocol eliminates need for opioids following knee replacement in most patients

A novel surgical pain management strategy has been developed to reduce opioid use after total knee arthroplasty. The study found that changing prescriptions for opioids at discharge from automatic to upon request dramatically decreased opioid use, with over half of patients recovering without opioid use.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Experimental Orthopaedics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

USTC realizes quantitative analysis of crucial intermediates in low-temperature combustion processes

A USTC research team has developed a gentle synthesis method for alkyl peroxides and measured their photoionization cross-sections, enabling accurate quantitative analysis of chain-branching intermediates in low-temperature combustion. The findings improve the kinetic model and provide a foundation for future optimization.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2023

London falcons ate fewer pigeons during lockdown

A study found peregrine falcons in larger cities like London rely on human activities supporting prey populations, particularly feral pigeons. The birds changed their diet during the pandemic, replacing pigeons with starlings and parakeets.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalPeople and Nature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2023

One-click checkout increases spending and engagement

A new study by Cornell University found that customers who use one-click checkout spend more on average, visiting the site 7% more often and buying a wider range of merchandise. One-click buyers also spent more time on the site per visit.

SourceCornell University·JournalManagement Science·DateFeb 27, 2023

More than 80% of American adults with type 2 diabetes meet treatment criteria for GLP-1 RAs or SGLT2is but most are not getting them

A study found that over 80% of American adults with type 2 diabetes meet the criteria to use GLP-1 RAs or SGLT2is, but only a small percentage are using them. The medications have a substantially higher cost than current first-line treatments, making it difficult for patients to access them.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 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.

The Texas Heart Institute delivers a new first in heart failure treatment using cell therapy

A new cell therapy has demonstrated significant benefits in improving the heart's pumping ability and reducing the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack, or stroke in patients with chronic heart failure. The therapy, using mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs), also showed a strong signal in reducing inflammation and improving microv...

SourceTexas Heart Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 27, 2023

New 'gym-on-a-chip' for worms may lead to new Parkinson’s treatments

A team of biologists and engineers created a miniature facility called the Acoustic Gym to study exercise in tiny worms. They found that swimming exercises reduced neurodegeneration in genetically engineered worms with Parkinson's-like symptoms, which could lead to new treatments for humans.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 27, 2023

HKU Dentistry invents new material to replace extracted human teeth for dental research

A research team developed a new dentine analogue material that can substitute extracted human teeth in laboratory-based mechanical and fatigue tests. The materials were tested for their mechanical strength, elastic modulus, indentation hardness, and fatigue behaviour, showing comparable results to those based on extracted human teeth.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalDental Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

New spider genus named after pop band ABBA

A new spider genus, Abba transversa, has been discovered in Australia, featuring distinctive dark spots and thick macrosetae on the legs. The genus was named after the Swedish pop group ABBA and is the result of a comprehensive study of orb-weaving spiders.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalEvolutionary Systematics·DateFeb 27, 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.

Corralling ions improves viability of next generation solar cells

Channeling ions into grain boundaries in perovskite materials improves the stability and operational performance of perovskite solar cells, paving the way for more efficient and practical solar cell technologies. This breakthrough finding may also inform the development of more efficient energy storage technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

‘Dead zone’ within tumor promotes cancer spread, helped by a protein secreted by cancer cells

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found that a protein secreted by cancer cells, angiopoietin-like-7, promotes tumor necrosis and metastasis in breast cancer. The study used a new rat model to investigate mechanisms of breast cancer metastasis and identified the protein as a potential target for treatment.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

New material may offer key to solving quantum computing issue

Researchers developed a new heterostructure of layered two-dimensional materials that could enable quantum computing to overcome key barriers. The material's topological properties are expected to protect the quantum state from environmental disturbance.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

New testing approach diagnoses COVID-19 with near-perfect accuracy

A new method developed by Flatiron Institute researchers can diagnose COVID-19 with near-perfect accuracy, even in asymptomatic patients. The technique monitors the body's molecular response to a viral attack and measures mRNA molecules to identify an immune response.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalCell Reports Methods·DateFeb 27, 2023

Complex seismic tremor detected at Italy’s Mefite d’Ansanto gas field

Researchers have detected a complex variety of seismic tremor signals at Mefite d'Ansanto, a non-volcanic carbon dioxide emission site in southern Italy. The analysis reveals three main types of tremor signals over different frequencies, which may be related to fluid discharge and changes in flow velocities.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 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.

Safety technology for hydrogen infrastructure in underground space

Dr. Kim Yangkyun's research team developed an active control system to mitigate the impact of hydrogen leaks and blasts in underground facilities. The system maintains a normal atmosphere quality, preventing blast accidents and reducing risk by up to 80%, compared to above-ground facilities.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateFeb 27, 2023

Shrinking age distribution of spawning salmon raises climate resilience concerns

Researchers suggest that returning to spawn at different ages can lessen the impact of a bad year and increase population stability for Sacramento River fall-run Chinook salmon. Changes in hatchery practices and fishery management could help restore the age structure of the population, making it more resilient to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2023

Key laboratory conducted a literature review on advancement in microfluidic actuated & controlled systems and application for lab-on-chip in space life science

Key laboratory conducted a literature review on microfluidic actuated and controlled systems for lab-on-chip applications in space life science. The research highlights the challenges and advancements in microfluidic chip technology, including micropumps and microvalves.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateFeb 27, 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.

RNA modification ‘pivotal’ for protein linked to neurodegeneration in ALS

A study found that RNA methylation plays a pivotal role in TDP-43-related neurodegeneration in ALS. The researchers observed highly abundant RNA methylation in the end-stage tissues of patients with ALS. This discovery opens up new avenues for research into the disease, which is linked to environmental exposure.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Loneliness is central to perinatal depression

Researchers found that loneliness is a major risk for mental health problems during pregnancy and after birth, with stigma, self-isolation, and emotional disconnection contributing factors.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMC Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 27, 2023

Reproductive factors in women contribute to risk of cardiovascular disease

A new study from Imperial College London finds that earlier first birth, higher number of live births, and starting periods at a younger age increase the risk of cardiovascular problems in women. The researchers hope their findings will help doctors better understand and monitor women's risk factors.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2023

One is bad enough: climate change raises the threat of back-to-back hurricanes

Research from Princeton University's engineering school finds that climate change is making sequential damaging hurricanes more likely, with areas like the Gulf Coast facing double hits as frequently as once every 3 years. Rising sea levels and increased precipitation are driving this trend.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2023

New technology to improve cancer detection and treatment

Researchers developed a new device that detects and analyzes cancer cells in blood samples, enabling doctors to avoid invasive biopsies and monitor treatment progress. The Static Droplet Microfluidic device uses metabolic signatures to differentiate tumour cells from normal blood cells.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 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 eddies affect our climate

A new European Union project aims to significantly improve Earth system models by incorporating more realistic mesoscale eddy representations. This will provide valuable climate information for national and international assessments, contributing to the IPCC's next Assessment Report.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2023

Dinosaur claws used for digging and display

Researchers discovered that some predatory dinosaurs used their claws for digging or display, contrary to previous assumptions. The study focused on two groups of theropod dinosaurs, the alvarezsaurs and therizinosaurs, which had unusual claws that were previously unknown to have a function.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2023

Can seven healthy habits now reduce risk of dementia later?

A new study found that adhering to seven cardiovascular and brain health factors, known as Life's Simple 7, can decrease dementia risk. Participants who scored higher on these factors had a lower risk of dementia, with each point increase resulting in a 6% decreased risk.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 27, 2023

Clear sign that QGP production 'turns off' at low energy

At the lowest collision energy, QGP production is found to be absent, with a dramatic shift in data characteristics. Higher-order statistical analysis reveals a clear absence of QGP at low energies, providing new insights into nuclear matter phases.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 27, 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.

Researchers at Paderborn University discover new superacid

Scientists at Paderborn University have developed a new catalyst, known as Lewis superacid, to break strong chemical bonds and speed up reactions. This breakthrough enables the conversion of non-biodegradable greenhouse gases into sustainable chemicals.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalApplied Chemistry·DateFeb 27, 2023

ARRS Roentgen Fund grants Resident/Fellow Awards to four radiologists

The American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) has awarded four radiologists with the 2023 Resident/Fellow in Radiology Awards for their exceptional research, education, and administrative work. Drs. Elliot T. Varney, Vincius Alves, Luca Pasquini, and Pallavi Srivastava will present their research findings at the upcoming ARRS Annual Meeting...

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·DateFeb 27, 2023

Report: Science rejected, lives lost – how society can do better

A report by Queensland University of Technology highlights the struggle of international experts who warned about COVID-19 airborne transmission in early 2020. The group's warnings were initially rejected by the World Health Organisation, leading to delays in implementing control measures that could have saved lives.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 27, 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.

Pakistan streamflow timing will become three times faster by end of century

Climate change is disrupting Pakistan's natural system, making it challenging to predict future changes. A recent study found that streamflow timing in the country's four major rivers will decrease significantly, with a range of -5 to -20 days in the near future.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateFeb 27, 2023

People save more money when their goals fit their personality traits

A study by Columbia University researchers found that individuals who saved money had goals that matched their dominant personality traits. People whose self-reported savings goals were a good fit for their personality traits had a bigger nest egg, on average.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateFeb 27, 2023

For-profit hospices deliver lower quality care than nonprofit hospices

A new study by the RAND Corporation found that patients receiving care from for-profit hospices have worse care experiences than those in non-profit hospices. Family caregivers reported lower quality care across all domains, including pain management and timely care.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 2023

New method for image reconstruction in electrical impedance tomography

A new method for image reconstruction in electrical impedance tomography has been developed by Prof. DU Jiangfeng's team, enabling high-quality images without training data. This innovation provides crucial theoretical support for the application of electrical impedance tomography in various diseases.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateFeb 27, 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.

Ancient proteins offer new clues about origin of life on Earth

Researchers found that specific amino acids were essential for the evolution of ancient proteins, which then shaped the genetic code of microorganisms. This discovery sheds light on the mystery of how life began on Earth and has implications for understanding evolution and potentially finding life beyond our planet.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Why are polders an important part of China’s water heritage?

Researchers argue that polders are an important part of China's water heritage, reflecting the country's long history of water management. Over 2,500 years, polders have evolved in response to changing societal needs, adapting to agricultural modernisation and urban encroachment.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalPlanning Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Satellites observe speed-up of glaciers on the Antarctic Peninsula

A new study using satellite images found that glaciers on the Antarctic Peninsula are flowing up to 22% faster during summer months due to warmer ocean waters and melting snow. This speed-up, driven by reduced friction between ice sheets and underlying rock, poses a significant threat to global sea levels.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 27, 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.

Theory sorts order from chaos in complex quantum systems

A new mathematical theory developed by Peter Wolynes and David Logan predicts the nature of motions in a chlorophyll molecule when it absorbs energy from sunlight. The findings suggest that there are exceptions where simple motions persist for long times, influencing processes like photosynthesis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2023

Cleveland Clinic study finds common artificial sweetener linked to higher rates of heart attack and stroke

A new study by the Cleveland Clinic found that high levels of erythritol, a popular artificial sweetener, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Researchers studied over 4,000 people and found those with higher blood erythritol levels were at elevated risk of experiencing a major adverse cardiac event.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2023

Brandon Levin wins NSF CAREER Award

Brandon Levin, an assistant professor of mathematics at Rice University, has won a prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER Award to pursue his research on major unsolved problems in number theory. He aims to build theoretical bridges between arithmetic world and representation theory.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 27, 2023

Immunotherapy costs drive increase in Medicare spending for outpatient cancer care at the end of life

A recent study found that immunotherapy costs accounted for 84% of the net increase in Medicare spending on outpatient cancer care at the end of life. Payments for radiation oncology decreased by 2%, while palliative care spending rose, reflecting a shift towards hypofractionated radiation treatments.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics·DateFeb 27, 2023

Capturing nanoplastics in tap water with light

Scientists develop a technology to detect and analyze nanoplastics in tap water using an electro-photonic tweezer and Raman spectroscopy. The new approach enables real-time detection of microplastics with high sensitivity, reducing analysis time from days to seconds.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 27, 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.

Experts demand fire safety policy change over health impact of widely used flame retardants

Experts call for a comprehensive review of UK's fire safety regulations to address the environmental and health risks of chemical flame retardants. The chemicals are found in various products, including furniture and building materials, and have been linked to health risks such as cancer and DNA damage.

SourceLancaster University·JournalEnvironment International·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 27, 2023

Evolutionary history of detoxifying enzymes reconstructed

Scientists have reconstructed the evolutionary history of flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs), a class of detoxifying enzymes present in all lifeforms. The study reveals that a single ancestral gene diverged into two distinct functions, with one gene triggering a different breakdown reaction.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 27, 2023

Tiny new climbing robot was inspired by geckos and inchworms

A tiny soft robot has been developed to help doctors perform surgery and search in hard-to-reach places. The robot uses ultraviolet light and magnetic force to climb on any surface, including walls and ceilings, without an external power supply.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateFeb 27, 2023

Babies born preterm decreased slightly and stillborn rates unchanged during first wave of COVID-19 lockdowns

A large-scale international study found that COVID-19 lockdowns led to a 3-4% reduction in preterm births worldwide, averting nearly 50,000 preterm pregnancies during the first month of lockdown. However, this decrease was limited to high-income countries, including Australia.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 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.

Are your strawberries bland? Pesticides could be to blame

Researchers found that two common strawberry fungicides can impact cellular mechanisms, creating berries with subdued flavor and sweetness. The study suggests that the use of these pesticides could be to blame for the blander taste of strawberries.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 27, 2023

Trauma causes high levels of intergenerational substance use among Black women

A new study found that trauma leads to high levels of intergenerational substance use among Black women, with 30% increased odds of drug use and 40% increased odds of Child Protective Services cases. The researchers also highlighted the importance of understanding the prevalence and impacts of these issues among minority populations.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·DateFeb 27, 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.

Researchers realize non-Hermitian exceptional points in degenerate optical cavity

Researchers constructed a non-Hermitian synthetic orbital angular momentum dimension in a degenerate optical cavity, detecting complex energy spectra and exceptional points. The study introduced a new method to investigate these features using wavefront angle–resolved band structure spectroscopy.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 27, 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.

New York City’s open streets program during COVID pandemic has unintended consequences on noise complaints

A new study found that New York City's Open Streets program, which allocated more public spaces for physical activity and recreation, was associated with higher daily street and sidewalk noise complaints. The researchers also found that census tracts with more affluent populations had more Open Streets segments.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateFeb 27, 2023

Hackers could try to take over a military aircraft; can a cyber shuffle stop them?

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories and Purdue University have developed a technique called moving target defense to protect against hackers taking control of military jets. This approach involves shuffling network addresses to make it difficult for attackers to access critical systems.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalIEEE Transactions on Dependable and Secure Computing·DateFeb 27, 2023

Study identifies four distinct pain trajectories in nursing home residents

Researchers identified four distinct long-term pain trajectories in nursing home residents, shedding light on risk factors associated with persistent pain. The study highlights the need to improve pain assessment and evaluation, particularly among vulnerable populations like those with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 27, 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.

First study to show childhood obesity is linked to increased risk of four of the five newly proposed subtypes of adult-onset diabetes

A new study published in Diabetologia found that childhood obesity is associated with a higher risk of four out of the five recently proposed subtypes of adult-onset diabetes. The study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the link between childhood body size and the risk of different diabetes subtypes occurring in adults.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateFeb 27, 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.

No frogs or toads left behind on Virginia Tech researchers’ watch

Virginia Tech researchers Traci DuBose and Meryl Mims studied 90 species of frogs and toads using publicly available data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. They found that approximately 11% of anuran species are sensitive to climate change but not currently listed as at-risk.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 27, 2023

Researchers uncover new water monitoring technique

Researchers at Texas A&M University have created a new method to monitor flocculation and mixing in real-time, allowing for more precise control over the process. This technique reduces energy consumption by halving the workload and improving precision.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·DateFeb 27, 2023

Study shows one in 25 patients undergoing transesophageal echocardiography-guided transcatheter structural cardiac intervention suffered a major complication

A study analyzing over 12,000 patients found that transesophageal echocardiography-guided transcatheter structural cardiac interventions were associated with a major complication rate of 3.6%. The most frequently reported complication was gastrointestinal bleeding.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of the American Society of Echocardiography·DateFeb 27, 2023

Artificial intelligence shows potential for solving global challenges

A study by MedUni Vienna's Center for Public Health used GPT-3 to analyze the potential of AI in addressing societal megatrends, including digitization, urbanization, and climate change. The findings suggest that AI can improve understanding of these complex issues and provide suggestions for solutions.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalSystems·DateFeb 27, 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.

Study examines COVID-19 pandemic's effect on Black, Latina women's mental health

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that nearly one-third of Black and Latina women experienced depressive symptoms during the pandemic. Women who prayed reported different effects on depression rates among these two groups, highlighting the need for targeted coping strategies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 27, 2023

Spiral pattern gives clue to how high-mass stars form

A team of astronomers discovered a spiral pattern in the disk around a high-mass protostar, indicating gravitational instability. The pattern revealed episodic growth bursts, a key aspect of high-mass star formation theory.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Black women of childbearing age more likely to have high blood pressure, raising pregnancy risks

A new study found that Black women of childbearing age are twice as likely to have uncontrolled high blood pressure as their white peers, increasing their risk of heart-related complications during pregnancy. Food insecurity was also a significant issue among Black and Hispanic women, with one in four experiencing food insecurity.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 27, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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New method for the detection of RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2

A new methodology detects RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 using polypurine hairpins that capture viral RNA and form a high-affinity triplex. The Triplex Enhanced Nucleic Acid Detection Assay (TENADA) is faster and more effective than the PCR test, providing results in under an hour.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Plugging immune cell leakage from tumors could improve skin cancer treatment

Researchers found that combining a chemical blocker of immune cell exit with immunotherapy stopped melanoma tumor enlargement in over half of mice tested. The study showed that T cells circulate out of tumors, reshaping scientific views of tumor immunology.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Post-COVID syndrome visible in DNA

Researchers found epigenetic changes in post-COVID patients, including genes associated with taste and smell, as well as cell metabolism. These findings may lead to the development of new diagnostic tools for this and similar diseases.

SourceLinköping University·JournalClinical Epigenetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 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.

Rare insect found at Arkansas Walmart sets historic record, prompts mystery

A giant lacewing with a wingspan of roughly 50 millimeters was discovered in Fayetteville, Arkansas, setting a historic record for its appearance in the region. The insect's reappearance suggests there may be relic populations yet to be discovered, and its presence has sparked debate about the impact of human activities on biodiversity.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Don’t be like Darth Vader – study shows negative emotions spark success... but there’s a price

A study by University of Essex found that negative emotions such as anxiety and anger can fuel success, but are linked to poor health and lack of strategic thinking. Positive perceptions and feelings of control, on the other hand, lead to enjoyment of learning and desire for success.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

New link between fatal muscle wasting disease gene and cancer discovered

A study published in Cancers found that the DMD gene has a role in oncology, with reduced dystrophin expression associated with advanced stage cancer and reduced survival. The discovery expands our understanding of the gene's significance beyond Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCancers·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 27, 2023

Cells avoid multitasking

Researchers at the University of Groningen discovered that cells separate essential biochemical reactions into different time periods. This separation explains metabolic oscillations leading up to cell division and has implications for our understanding of cellular physiology, cancer, and aging.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Nanosatellite shows the way to RNA medicine of the future

Scientists at Aarhus University and Berkeley Laboratory developed a method called RNA origami to design artificial RNA nanostructures. The technique allowed for the discovery of rules and mechanisms for RNA folding that will make it possible to build more ideal RNA particles for use in RNA-based medicine.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023