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Science News Archive February 2023 - Page 11


Page 11 of 36

A new model of palliative care to empower communities in Africa

A culturally appropriate model of end-of-life care is being developed in Ghana to address the scarcity of palliative care in low-resource communities. COMPASS Ghana aims to provide universal end-of-life care by the end of the decade, utilizing a compassionate community approach that involves patients and caregivers in care provision.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBMJ Supportive & Palliative Care·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

These sports sensors could curb ‘bad calls’ and help players during practices

Researchers developed a self-powered, hybrid nanogenerator sensor that can monitor performance in boxing and cricket, providing accurate data on accuracy, power, and speed. The device has the potential to explore other applications in sports, paving the way for more efficient practices and improved player performance.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateFeb 21, 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.

Measures of brain connectivity, cognition by sex in children

A neuroimaging study of 8,900 children aged 9-11 reveals sex differences in brain connectivity and cognitive performance. The findings suggest that girls mature faster than boys, which may impact future development of brain developmental trajectory charts.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 21, 2023

Texas A&M meat scientist developing ‘no nitrite-added’ cured meats

A team of researchers led by Wes Osburn, Ph.D., has made a breakthrough in developing an amino acid-based alternative curing method for meat and poultry products without adding sodium nitrite. This new technique uses L-arginine to activate the nitric oxide synthase system, generating nitric oxide and residual nitrite naturally.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·DateFeb 21, 2023

Bouncing seismic waves reveal distinct layer in Earth's inner core

Seismologists from ANU have documented evidence of a distinct layer inside the Earth's inner core, known as the innermost inner core, which is a solid metallic ball. This discovery provides a new way to probe the Earth's inner core and its centremost region.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 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.

When is remdesivir effective for COVID-19?

A new analysis of COVID-19 patient data reveals that remdesivir significantly lowers mortality in unvaccinated patients with conventional oxygen support. The study found no evidence of varying treatment effects based on age, comorbidities, or inflammation levels.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 21, 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.

How do parents decide if they should vaccinate their kids against SARS-CoV-2?

A new study explores the complexity of parents' decision-making processes regarding SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for their children. The research highlights the importance of individualized discussions with healthcare providers to help interpret evidence and provide tailored recommendations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 21, 2023

Study finds parents serve as a safety net as grown kids navigate the workforce

A new study reveals that parents play a crucial role in supporting their adult children through employment transitions, particularly when pursuing education. However, this support is often conditional on social norms and can reinforce existing inequalities.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEuropean Sociological Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

Cardiovascular benefits of lipid-lowering drugs apply across ethnicities and regions

A recent study found that lipid-lowering therapies reduce major adverse cardiovascular events across diverse ethnic groups and regions. The analysis of 53 trials involving over 329,000 participants revealed consistent risk reductions of up to 45% in certain minority populations.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Shining light on an enzyme reveals its role in metabolism

Researchers reveal Akt2's role in insulin-regulated metabolism, initiating energy production and nucleic acid synthesis. The study provides new insights into metabolic disorders like diabetes, paving the way for targeted therapeutics.

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScience Signaling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Yams benefit from banana ‘paper’ cocoon

A North Carolina State University study shows that yam seeds wrapped in a biodegradable paper made from banana fibers and cardboard grow larger and more abundantly than those without the paper. The 'wrap-and-plant' method also reduces post-harvest loss by minimizing nematode pest effects.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Food·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Ohio University researchers help reveal evolution of oldest spinosaur brains

Researchers from Ohio University and the University of Southampton reconstructed the brains and inner ears of two British spinosaurs to gain insight into their interaction with their environment. They found that the olfactory bulbs were not particularly developed and the ear was attuned to low-frequency sounds.

SourceOhio University·JournalJournal of Anatomy·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

Study provides roadmap for using convalescent plasma as an effective COVID-19 treatment

A new analysis reveals that convalescent plasma can be used to prevent hospitalizations and save lives in COVID-19 patients. Early treatment with high doses of antibodies significantly reduced hospitalization rates by up to 50%. The study provides a roadmap for using convalescent plasma as an effective therapy for future pandemics.

SourceBrown University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 21, 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.

A new model to better understand what’s inside colliding black holes

A new model developed by researchers at Columbia University and the University of Mississippi improves the accuracy of gravitational wave analysis by including nonlinear interactions. This enhanced modeling method will help scientists better understand the structure of merging black holes and test Einstein's theory of general relativity.

SourceColumbia University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Researchers uncover how photosynthetic organisms regulate and synthesize ATP

A team of researchers has discovered the role of amino acid sequences in regulating ATP production in photosynthetic organisms. The study found that specific domains of the γ subunit of chloroplast F0F1 are involved in redox regulation, crucial for photosynthesis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Neuromorphic camera and machine learning aid nanoscopic imaging

Scientists at IISc develop neuromorphic camera that uses machine learning to pinpoint objects smaller than 50 nanometers in size, enabling nanoscale precision in biological processes, chemistry, and physics. The technique combines optical microscopy with the neuromorphic camera and machine learning algorithms.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 21, 2023

Infants outperform AI in “commonsense psychology”

A new study by NYU researchers found that infants excel at spotting motivations driving human actions, while state-of-the-art AI models struggle. By comparing infant and machine intelligence on a series of tasks, the researchers shed light on the limitations of current AI systems.

SourceNew York University·JournalCognition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Mix and match: A new platform for the design of multipigment optical phantoms

Researchers created adaptive optical phantoms by combining multiple pigments to mimic target tissue's optical properties, successfully validating them in extensive experiments. The new platform enables broader band spectra for emerging hybrid modalities and novel instruments.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 21, 2023

Symbiosis between trees and fungi: Discovery of the role of epigenetics

Research reveals DNA methylation plays a crucial role in tree-fungi symbiosis, affecting water uptake and environmental adaptability. Epigenetic modulation between trees and fungi enhances symbiotic relationships, with implications for forest management and climate change mitigation.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 21, 2023

Satisfying mid-life relationships linked to lower multiple chronic disease risk in older age

Research published in General Psychiatry found that satisfying mid-life relationships are linked to a lower risk of accumulating multiple long-term conditions in older age. The study, which included 13,714 Australian women, suggests that stronger social connections and higher relationship satisfaction are associated with a lower risk o...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

CHOP researchers develop first effective preclinical models for most common genetic cause of Leigh Syndrome

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed two new zebrafish models for studying SURF1 mitochondrial disease, a major cause of Leigh syndrome. The team identified two drugs, cysteamine bitartrate and N-acetylcysteine, that showed potential in preventing neurological decompensation in patients with Leigh syndrome.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Physicists create new model of ringing black holes

Researchers have developed a new model of black hole collisions that reveals nonlinear effects in gravitational waves, allowing for more accurate modeling of the behavior. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding black hole collisions observed by LIGO and testing Einstein's general theory of relativity.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 21, 2023

US Census data vulnerable to attack without enhanced privacy measures

Computer scientists designed a reconstruction attack that proves US Census data can be exposed and stolen with current privacy measures. The study demonstrates risks to individual respondents' privacy, highlighting the need for differential privacy techniques to protect sensitive information.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2023

New approach allows faster test of urea in body fluids

Researchers developed a wearable sensing patch that enables rapid quantitative analysis of urea, an important indicator of renal function, with high sensitivity and low detection limits. The patch uses upconversion nanoparticles to eliminate self-fluorescence and background interference.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 21, 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.

Big aspirations and inspiration for STEM careers at AAAS

A panel of four women from Diamond Light Source shares their professional journeys and addresses 21st century challenges, including energy research and pandemic preparedness. The workshop aims to inspire early career STEM professionals and promote diversity in the field.

SourceDiamond Light Source·DateFeb 21, 2023

New cloud research project launched at the German Antarctic station Neumayer-III

The COALA project aims to measure the relationships between aerosols and clouds in Antarctica's 'clean-air laboratory' using ground-based instruments. Long-term observations will help scientists better understand cloud formation, precipitation, and radiation budget in this region.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

For the first time, an innovative intervention program offers help for people suffering from maladaptive daydreaming

Maladaptive daydreaming is characterized by extensive immersion in vivid fantasies and can impair social, family, and employment functions. The new study's results show significant improvement in treatment groups, with around one-fourth of participants completely recovered from the condition.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 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.

Any regular physical activity at any age linked to better brain function in later life

A long-term study found that regular leisure time physical activity at any age is associated with better brain function in later life. Maintaining an exercise routine throughout adulthood was particularly beneficial for preserving mental acuity and memory. The study, which included over 1,400 participants, showed that being physically ...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

New research reveals possible COVID vaccine blood clot connection

A new Australian study found fundamental differences in how the AstraZeneca and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines impact the immune system, with some people receiving more effective protection than others. The study revealed a potential explanation for the connection between the AstraZeneca vaccine and blood clotting cases.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2023

MU researcher discovers threshold that triggers drought response in forests

A recent study at Baskett Forest found that forests reach an ecosystem wilting point between 2-4 weeks of extreme drought, requiring soaking rainfall to rejuvenate. This concept explains how whole forests respond to drought and is essential for understanding their dynamics under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeCase study·DateFeb 21, 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.

Novel algorithm proposed for inversion of aerosol optical depth

A research team from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science proposed an optimal inversion algorithm for aerosol optical depth based on combined multi-band intensity and polarization information. The algorithm avoids prior ground information requirements, enabling accurate separation of surface and atmospheric data.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalRemote Sensing·DateFeb 21, 2023

Gameto licenses Wyss Institute tech to grow human ovaries in the lab

Scientists at the Wyss Institute and Gameto develop a living, fully human ovarian organoid that supports egg cell maturation and secretes sex hormones. This technology enables the study of human ovarian biology without tissue from patients and could lead to new treatments for infertility and ovarian cancer.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Heart disease deaths declining, but not for everyone

A new study finds that while heart disease deaths are declining nationwide, rural and predominantly Black counties continue to experience higher rates of cardiovascular disease. Factors such as food insecurity, low income, and housing instability contribute to these disparities.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 21, 2023

More research needed to advance 2D boron-based future technologies, scientists say

Researchers emphasize the need for further study of borophene-based materials, highlighting challenges in experimental synthesis and desired properties such as mechanical compliance and ultrahigh thermal conductivity. They recommend advancing studies focused on optimizing performance in energy applications and device integration.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateFeb 21, 2023

Climate and geography develop spiritual connections between giant trees and human beings

A macroecological study found that giant tree properties, such as trunk circumference and age, are strongly correlated with climatic factors. The probability of a tree being an object of faith tends to increase with lower annual precipitation, highlighting the impact of climate change on spiritual ecosystem services.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalNature Plants·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 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.

New insights into foetal development may protect against leukaemia

A study published in Cell Reports found that a specific molecular cell program during foetal development can protect against acute myeloid leukaemia. The researchers used an experimental mouse model and discovered that the programme collides with the mechanism driving AML, explaining why leukaemia is rare in newborns.

SourceLund University·JournalCell·DateFeb 21, 2023

Celebrity tweets likely shaped US negative public opinion of COVID-19 pandemic

An analysis of 13 million tweets suggests that celebrity tweets, particularly from politicians and news anchors, played a significant role in shaping public opinion on the COVID-19 pandemic in the US. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring social media activity to combat misinformation and promote health-protective behaviors.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Health & Care Informatics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

Arsenic contaminates private drinking water wells across the western Great Basin

A new study maps high arsenic levels in groundwater wells across northern Nevada, northeastern California, and western Utah, with over 49,000 users at risk. The model uses geologic, hydrologic, and tectonic variables to predict elevated arsenic levels, particularly in regions like Carson Desert basin and Truckee Meadows.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 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.

Excess nutrients lead to dramatic ecosystem changes in Cape Cod’s Waquoit Bay; the bay is a harbinger for estuaries worldwide, say researchers

Researchers found that Waquoit Bay has shifted from a benthic to a pelagically-dominated ecosystem due to human causes, including excess nutrient pollution and climate change. The bay's ecosystem degradation has broader implications for estuaries worldwide.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023