Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 28, 2023


Wastewater sector emits nearly twice as much methane as previously thought

New research reveals that municipal wastewater treatment plants release significantly more methane into the atmosphere than previously estimated. The findings suggest that existing guidelines underestimate emissions equivalent to 5.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. Anaerobic digesters, used in some facilities, are particularly s...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2023

New study shows people are willing to start cycling more post-COVID-19 pandemic

A new study by University of Central Florida researchers found that people who are more environmentally friendly and satisfied with their life are more likely to cycle post-pandemic. The survey analysis of over 7,000 respondents showed a significant increase in cycling intentions among women without vehicles and full-time employees.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Breathing is going to get tougher

A new study finds that rising temperatures will increase harmful plant emissions and dust, leading to a 14% boost in air pollution. The degradation in future air quality from natural sources is predicted to be significant, with two-thirds of the pollution coming from plants.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 28, 2023

Profiling abortions in low- and middle-income countries

A new study published in PLOS Global Public Health found that factors such as marriage status, age, and education are associated with pregnancy termination in 36 low- and middle-income countries. The study used data from over 1.2 million women aged 15-49 and found that married women, those over 30, and those with higher education were ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Super-fast insect urination powered by the physics of superpropulsion

Researchers discovered that glassy-winged sharpshooters use a 'superpropulsion' mechanism to launch droplets of pee at high speeds, conserving energy in the process. This innovative strategy helps the insect efficiently excrete its 99% water fluid waste.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Study reveals improvements in workplace support and leadership training will improve the mental health and potentially reduce burnout in healthcare professionals

A study published by Queen Mary University of London found that feeling supported at work reduces the risk of depression, anxiety, and burnout. Improving workplace aspects such as manager approachability, consistent information, and staffing levels can significantly protect mental wellbeing in healthcare professionals.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCMAJ Open·DateFeb 28, 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.

Annals HRSA Special Supplement February 2023 Media Tip Sheet

This special supplement from Annals of Family Medicine highlights the work of six HRSA-funded academic units focused on advancing health care equity and improving primary care practices. The articles cover topics such as workforce training, mental health care seeking, socioeconomic issues, and whole-person oriented healthcare.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2023

Hollings researchers develop small molecule to stimulate natural killer cells against neuroblastoma

Hollings researchers create small molecule that targets CD38 enzyme activity, stimulating proliferation of natural killer cells and enhancing anti-cancer activity. The compound has potential as an adjuvant therapy to boost effects of existing treatments and reduce resistance to monoclonal antibodies.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Parental investment may have aided evolution of larger brains

A review of evidence suggests that increased parental energy investment in young offspring may have facilitated the evolution of larger brains in some species. This is particularly true for warm-blooded species, which tend to invest more energy in their young through actions such as egg production and lactation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

COVID-19: Bacterial co-infection is a major risk factor for death, ICU admission and mechanical ventilation

A recent study found that bacterial co-infection in COVID-19 patients significantly increased the risk of death, intensive care unit admission, and mechanical ventilation. The study reviewed 13,781 COVID-19 inpatient encounters and identified laboratory trends associated with COVID-19 bacterial co-infection.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalCritical Care·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Flower power: Research highlights the role of ants in forest regeneration

Research from Binghamton University highlights the importance of ants in forest regeneration, with over 95% of New York state forests relying on them to disperse seeds. Ants take seeds with fatty rewards back to their nests, protecting them from consumption by rodents and other organisms, promoting a mutually beneficial arrangement.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalEcology·DateFeb 28, 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.

Galactic explosion offers astrophysicists new insight into the cosmos

Researchers studied a Type 1a supernova in a faraway spiral galaxy, NGC 1566, to understand how certain chemical elements are emitted into the surrounding cosmos. The study confirms that ejecta doesn't escape the confines of the explosion, validating many assumptions about how complex entities work.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

New insights from an ancient asteroid

Researchers at Tohoku University analyzed samples from Japan's Hayabusa2 spacecraft and identified what they believe may be the oldest solids from the solar system. The grains were likely transported outward from the inner regions of the early solar system to their current location in the outer reaches.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2023

Sexting found to be associated with negative mental heath

A recent study found that sexting is associated with negative mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. Participants who only sent sexts reported more mental health issues than others. The study highlights the need for further research into the correlations between sexting and mental health.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeCase study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Young snapping shrimps’ tiny claws accelerate in water like a bullet

Researchers discovered that young snapping shrimp's upper claws can accelerate at speeds of up to 580,000m/s², surpassing their parents' abilities and producing powerful cavitation bubbles. The study, published in Journal of Experimental Biology, highlights the impressive mechanical capabilities of these tiny crustaceans.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

School-based wellness initiative shown to reduce average student BMI

A school-based wellness initiative led by MUSC's Boeing Center for Children's Wellness has been shown to reduce the average student BMI over time. The program, which targets policy, systems and environmental change, uses evidence-based strategies such as physical activity, nutrition and social-emotional wellness.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of School Health·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Researchers’ model for TV ad scheduling reaps revenue increase for networks

A team of researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has developed a system to optimize TV ad scheduling, resulting in a 3-5% revenue increase for networks. The model combines mathematical programming and machine learning to assign ads to specific breaks and positions.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalOperations Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2023

The strong Meiyu in history, beginning with the flood of 1608

Researchers found interdecadal variability of solar radiation impacted strong Meiyu events, particularly in the Yangtze River. The study analyzed historical data and simulations, revealing a correlation between strong solar radiation and higher frequency of strong Meiyu events.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateFeb 28, 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.

Ancient eggshells unlock discovery of extinct elephant bird lineage

Scientists have discovered a previously unknown lineage of elephant bird that roamed the wet, forested landscapes of northeastern Madagascar, using ancient eggshell DNA. This breakthrough reveals new insights into the diversity of birds that once inhabited Earth and provides clues about their extinction.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2023

Precarious work associated with high BMI

A UIC study published in Obesity links precarious work to increases in body mass index, particularly among Latino and Black women with lower education. The researchers analyzed 20 years of data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth and found a 2.18-point increase in BMI for every 1-point increase in precarious employment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalObesity·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Spinal cord stimulation may help diabetic neuropathy

A study found that high-frequency spinal cord stimulation significantly reduced average pain levels by 76%, while improving motor function and sensation. The therapy's long-term safety and potential disease-modifying effects are promising, but further studies are needed to confirm the results.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 28, 2023

HIV reservoirs are established earlier than expected

Researchers have discovered that HIV creates reservoirs as early as the first days of infection, hiding and persisting during antiretroviral therapy. This finding is a major obstacle to curing HIV, but it also offers new opportunities for treatment development.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

More proof that too many medications leads to adversity for older cancer patients

A new study found that polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications, increases the risk of adverse treatment outcomes in older adults with advanced cancer. Patients taking multiple medications had a 59% higher chance of stopping cancer treatment earlier than recommended.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 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.

How to predict city traffic

A new machine learning model can predict city traffic activity in different zones of cities, enabling targeted responses from policymakers. Understanding people's mobility patterns is crucial for improving urban traffic flow, and the model provides insights into urban interactions.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2023

Scientists find that bison are impacting streams in Yellowstone National Park

A new study finds that bison herds in northern Yellowstone National Park are negatively impacting riparian plant communities, leading to biotic impoverishment and loss of ecosystem services. The effects of increased bison numbers are exacerbating climate change, shifting plant communities towards warmer and drier conditions.

SourceConservation Biology Institute·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Millet and sorghum cultivation may provide an answer to rising levels of aridity linked to climate change

Researchers from UPF's CaSEs research group have developed sustainable agricultural strategies using traditional small-scale rainfed agriculture for drought-tolerant crops like finger millet and sorghum. The study provides novel information on the intersection of traditional ecological knowledge and academic knowledge.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Liquid nitrogen spray could clean up stubborn moon dust

A liquid nitrogen spray developed by WSU researchers can remove almost all simulated moon dust from space suits with minimal damage. The technology uses the Leidenfrost Effect to clean spacesuits, performing better in vacuum environments than previous methods.

SourceWashington State University·JournalActa Astronautica·DateFeb 28, 2023

Social media provide space for digital cosmopolitanism

A study by Dr. Roman Lietz and Dr. Fergal Lenehan found that socially engaged Twitter users share similar values and motivations, including a commitment to human rights, tolerance, and understanding. Despite the harsh environment of social media, these individuals demonstrate surprising similarities in their perspectives on society.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPersona Studies·DateFeb 28, 2023

New study to examine link between air quality, climate change, and birth outcomes

A new study by PSE Healthy Energy and the University of California, Berkeley aims to investigate the relationship between exposure to air pollution, heat, and humidity with birth outcomes. The research will analyze disparities in local exposure across the region and develop targeted solutions to protect vulnerable populations.

SourcePSE Healthy Energy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2023

The largest genomic study of rare cancer metastathic pheochromocytoma identifies patients at highest risk of metastasis and those who would respond to immunotherapy

Researchers have identified markers associated with an increased risk of metastasis in patients with metastatic pheochromocytoma, allowing for personalized clinical management. The study also identifies patients who could benefit from immunotherapy treatments, paving the way for potential new therapies.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Adult smokers with mental illness consume the most caffeine in the U.S.

Researchers found adult smokers with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia drink the most caffeine, while those with mental illness are at highest risk of negative health consequences. The study suggests mood, metabolism, and self-medication may explain use patterns among this population.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPsychiatry Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Identifying the inflammatory cells behind chemo brain

Researchers identified microglia as key players in chemo brain inflammation, suggesting a potential target for treatment. In a mouse study, deleting microglia restored memory and lowered brain inflammation after paclitaxel treatment.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Activation of peroxymonosulfate and photothermal for removal of phenolic organic pollutants and lignin derivatives

Researchers developed a new method for removing bisphenol pollutants and lignin derivatives using activated peroxymonosulfate and photothermal technology. The material, C-defects/C-O band-modified ultrathin porous carbon nitride, has shown faster reaction rates and improved oxidizing ability compared to conventional materials.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Obesity makes it harder to diagnose and treat heart disease

A new review paper from Mayo Clinic outlines how obesity impacts common tests used to diagnose heart disease, such as ECG, CT scan, MRI, and echocardiogram. The study highlights the need for alternative approaches to prevent weight gain in patients with heart disease.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2023

Protein-based nanoparticles designed to neutralise the SARS-CoV2 virus

Scientists at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have created spherical nanoparticles inspired by amyloid proteins that bind to the SARS-CoV2 spike protein with high affinity, preventing cell infection. The biocompatible and stable nanostructures also show great potency in blocking viral particles.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2023

Making drinking water bacteria-free

Researchers have created a simple and inexpensive method to disinfect drinking water using silver sulfide quantum dots encased in a peptide coat. When exposed to near-infrared light, these nanoparticles kill bacteria with high efficiency, making them a promising alternative to traditional methods.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

A motion freezer for many particles

A team from TU Wien has developed a method to cool several particles simultaneously by adapting the spatial structure of a laser beam to particle motion. The technique uses far-field wavefront shaping to optimize cooling and can be achieved without knowing the exact location or movement of the particles.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2023

Alternative bladder cancer treatment emerges amid worldwide shortage of standard of care BCG

A new study finds that a combination of chemotherapy drugs performs better than BCG in preventing high-grade cancer recurrence in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. This alternative treatment has shown excellent safety and efficacy outcomes, providing a viable option for patients facing a shortage of standard care treatm...

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Will future computers run on human brain cells?

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are developing 'organoid intelligence' using human brain cells, which could exponentially expand computing capabilities and solve energy consumption issues. The technology has the potential to revolutionize drug testing research for neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegeneration.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalFrontiers in Science·DateFeb 28, 2023

Keqin Zhang/Chenggang Zou revealed that Vitellogenin accumulation leads to reproductive senescence by impairing lysosomal function in C. elegans

Excessive vitellogenin accumulation impairs lysosomal function in germline tissues, leading to reproductive arrest and oocyte quality maintenance. Improvement of lysosomal function is proposed as a potential approach for mid-life intervention in maintaining reproductive health.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateFeb 28, 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.

Estuaries face higher nutrient loads in the future – particularly on the Atlantic coast

Estuaries along the Atlantic coast and eastern Gulf of Mexico are expected to experience significant increases in nutrient loading, posing risks for harmful algal blooms and ecosystem health. The study identified regions with high adaptive capacity as having more resources to mitigate these effects.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEarth s Future·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2023

Centuries of whaling data highlight likely climate change effect

A study analyzing centuries-old whaling records reveals Southern right whales are adjusting their feeding grounds in response to climate change. The whales increased use of mid-latitude foraging grounds and slightly shifted towards high latitude areas, affecting their prey availability.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Tiny worm plays a big role in learning whether Parkinson’s really starts in the gut

A tiny worm called C. elegans is enabling scientists to explore the emerging theory that Parkinson’s disease starts in the gut, where a sticky protein causes neurons to die. The worms have a digestive tract and neurotransmitters similar to humans, making them a great model for studying cognitive problems associated with Parkinson's.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateFeb 28, 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.

In the end, it’s the individual advantage that counts

Researchers found that bacteria's cooperative behavior helps in the short term but fails to protect them from predators. However, individual defense through filament formation proves successful and stabilizes bacterial population densities.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalThe ISME Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Parental support for LGBTQ youth is important, research shows

Research shows that parental social support and psychological control significantly impact LGBTQ youth's depressive symptoms. High psychological control, however, was linked with more depressive symptoms in those whose parents did not know their identities.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 28, 2023

CU School of Medicine researchers part of national team that identified a new dietary approach to treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis

A new dietary approach has been identified to treat eosinophilic esophagitis by eliminating only dairy products, showing similar effectiveness to the standard six-food elimination diet. This breakthrough study led by CU School of Medicine researchers offers a more patient-friendly treatment option with fewer drawbacks.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology·DateFeb 28, 2023

Compression treatment could relieve horses’ painful swollen limbs

Researchers developed a horse-specific compression device that accelerates lymphatic flow, providing potential relief from painful swollen limbs. In a pilot study, six healthy thoroughbreds showed significantly accelerated lymphatic flow compared to untreated horses.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Veterinary Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 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.

Predicting outbreak of ALS disease with AI methods

Bielefeld University researchers developed an AI method using Capsule Networks to analyze genotype profiles of 3,000 ALS patients, achieving 87% accuracy in predicting whether or not people will develop ALS. The study reveals over 900 genes that play a role in identifying the disease.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Daily 11 minute brisk walk enough to reduce risk of early death, say Cambridge researchers

Researchers found that 11 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day, equivalent to a brisk walk, lowers the risk of diseases like heart disease and stroke. This amounts to a 23% lower risk of early death, with benefits also seen in reduced cardiovascular disease and cancer risks.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 28, 2023

St. Jude approach prevents drug resistance and toxicity

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital demonstrate a framework to develop solutions to evade detoxification networks in drug development, potentially reducing side effects. By altering the structure of a small molecule, they found a way to stretch out binding regions, making it energetically unfavorable for drugs to bind a...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2023

Digital twin opens way to effective treatment of inflammatory diseases

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new approach to treating inflammatory diseases by analyzing the activity of genes in individual cells. This digital twin technology could lead to personalized drug therapies for patients with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateFeb 28, 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.

Lending a paw for defence veterans: ‘Clear evidence’ that assistance dogs help improve mental health

A new Australian study found that assistance dogs used in conjunction with traditional therapies provide the most effective treatment outcomes for defence veterans' mental health. Almost 90% of veterans reported improvements in post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety after being matched with an assistance dog.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 28, 2023

Better communication leads to more international solidarity

A study published in npj Vaccines found that clear communication strategies, such as emphasizing self-interest and common ground, can increase vaccination solidarity among citizens. The researchers recommend a crisis communication approach that highlights the risks of vaccine nationalism and promotes long-term profit orientation.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·Journalnpj Vaccines·DateFeb 28, 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.

Novel method of analyzing microplastic particle pollution can facilitate environmental impact assessment

Researchers propose a novel approach to analyzing microplastic particles, highlighting the importance of particle size and shape in determining environmental impact. Studies show that even samples with similar numbers of particles can have varying levels of plastic pollution based on mass, volume, and specific surface area.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateFeb 28, 2023

Defect engineering of electrocatalysts for metal‐based battery

Researchers have developed high-performance, low-cost electrocatalysts through defect engineering to improve metal-based battery efficiency. The review highlights strategies for introducing defects into electrode materials and characterization technologies, as well as design principles for optimizing electrochemical performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

New purification method could make protein drugs cheaper

MIT engineers develop a new purification method using bioconjugate-functionalized nanoparticles to rapidly crystallize proteins, reducing the cost of manufacturing protein drugs. The approach has shown promising results in isolating lysozyme and insulin, with faster crystallization times and increased nucleation rates.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 28, 2023

Targeting wealth managers would cripple Russia's oligarchs

A new study by Dartmouth College researchers finds that sanctions on wealth managers would be more effective than asset seizure in crippling Russia's oligarchs. The research uses network science to map the connections between wealthy individuals and their financial experts, revealing a vulnerable network that can be disrupted with targ...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Goal: Safer bike lanes

The study found that pavement skid resistance is crucial in reducing bicycle and electric scooter crashes. Pavements with higher skid resistance, such as asphalt and concrete, are recommended for bike lanes to minimize the risk of falls and collisions.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalSustainability·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Keto vs vegan: Study of popular diets finds over fourfold difference in carbon footprints

A new study from Tulane University compared popular diets on nutritional quality and environmental impact, finding that keto and paleo diets scored among the lowest on nutrition quality and had the highest carbon emissions. Vegan diets, on the other hand, generated significantly less carbon dioxide per calorie consumed.

SourceTulane University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2023

Could the background circulation of the record-breaking rainfall in July 2021 in east-central China have been predicted?

Scientists from Chinese Academy of Sciences have revealed the predictable and unpredictable components of the anomalous WPSH in July 2021. The study suggests that positive precipitation anomalies over the tropical western Pacific driven by La Niña contributed to the northward shift, while atmospheric internal intraseasonal oscillations...

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2023

12 exotic bacteria found to passively collect rare earth elements from wastewater

Scientists discovered that 12 strains of cyanobacteria can passively collect rare earth elements from wastewater through a process called biosorption. This process has great potential for the circular recovery and reuse of rare earth metals in industries such as mining, electronics, and chemicals.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Ultrasound device may offer new treatment option for hypertension

A new study found that an ultrasound device consistently reduced daytime ambulatory blood pressure by an average of 8.5 points among middle-aged patients with hypertension. The device targets overactive nerves in the kidneys, disrupting signals that lead to high blood pressure.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 2023

A Mass General team is the first to trace a rare smooth muscle disorder to a single mutation in a non-coding gene

A Mass General team has identified a single mutation in a non-coding gene, MIR145-5p, as the source of multisystemic smooth muscle dysfunction syndrome, which had gone undiagnosed in a child for years. The discovery enabled physicians to initiate treatment and lessen the risk of future strokes.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 28, 2023

People spend 1/6th of their lifetime on enhancing their appearance

A study of over 93,000 people across 93 countries found that men and women spend an average of four hours a day on beauty-enhancing behaviors. Social media usage is the strongest predictor of attractiveness-enhancing behaviors, with active users investing more time in improving their appearance.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateFeb 28, 2023

BIAL Award in Biomedicine worth 300,000 Euros

The BIAL Award in Biomedicine is a prestigious international award that recognises outstanding biomedical research. The €300,000 prize is given to researchers whose work has shown exceptional quality and scientific relevance, published within the last ten years.

SourceBIAL Foundation·DateFeb 28, 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.

CALYPSO: combined MET and PD-L1 inhibition shows promise in a cohort of patients with MET-driven metastatic papillary renal cancer.

The CALYPSO study assesses the efficacy of combined MET and PD-L1 inhibition in patients with MET-driven metastatic papillary renal cancer. Response rates were 29% for all patients and 53% for those with MET-driven tumors, with improved progression-free survival observed in MET-driven status.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 28, 2023

Signals of the future detected by artificial intelligence

KISTI's automated weak signal detection technology identifies 439 new weak signals in 24 fields of science and technology, up from 391 last year. The report explores weak signal dynamics, tracking changes and trends between signals.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2023

Study finds association between lifetime experiences of discrimination and incidence of dementia

A new study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine found a strong association between lifetime experiences of discrimination and the incidence of dementia. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,500 participants and discovered that individuals who reported experiencing more than two domains of discrimination had a greater risk o...

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateFeb 28, 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.

The highlight advances in planetary science over the past 20 years

Recent planetary missions have revealed significant advances in our understanding of Mercury's metal composition and magnetic field, as well as Venus' dense atmosphere and geological activity. On Mars, the InSight mission has detected marsquakes, suggesting a similar internal structure to Earth.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace: Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2023