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Science News Archive February 2023 - Page 15


Page 15 of 36

New superalloy could cut carbon emissions from power plants

Researchers have discovered a new 3D-printed superalloy that can withstand high heat, essential for power plant turbines. The alloy, composed of 42% aluminum, 25% titanium and other metals, is stronger at high temperatures than state-of-the-art materials.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateFeb 16, 2023

Whales give up singing to fight for love

Researchers from the University of Queensland found that humpback whales have shifted their mating behaviour, with males giving up singing and instead fighting for dominance. This change is believed to be due to the increased population size after whaling cessation, as larger groups may deter other males from approaching potential mates.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 16, 2023

Study quantifies global impact of electricity in dust storms on Mars

Researchers find that electrical discharge in Martian dust storms could be a major driving force of the planet's chlorine cycle. The study reveals high yields of chlorine gases from common chlorides when electrified by Martian conditions, indicating a promising pathway for converting surface chlorides to atmospheric phases.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 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.

New release of Blue Brain Project Atlas sheds light on neuron types

The new Cell Atlas updates reveal that 20% of all neurons in the mouse brain are inhibitory, with detailed information on morphological and electrophysiological properties. The atlas combines various datasets to create a coherent framework for simulating neural circuits.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 16, 2023

Troubling discovery

Researchers found that gadolinium nanoparticles from MRI contrast agents can infiltrate kidney cells, causing severe side effects like nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. The study used electron microscopy to detect tiny deposits of gadolinium in the kidneys of people who had been injected with contrast agents prior to their MRIs.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Climate change disrupts core habitats of marine species

A modelling study by an international team of researchers found that climate change will likely disrupt core habitats of marine species, reducing suitable ranges by the end of this century. The results highlight the need for effective conservation management to protect marine biodiversity and resources.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 16, 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.

Smooth sailing for electrons in graphene

Physicists at the University of Wisconsin–Madison directly measured the fluid-like flow of electrons in graphene for the first time at nanometer resolution. This breakthrough study provides new insights into the behavior of electrons in this material, shedding light on its potential applications.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2023

Two Rhode Island coastal flood defense projects provide lessons for making future infrastructure projects more successful

Researchers analyzed two US Army Corps of Engineers flood megaprojects in Rhode Island that emerged simultaneously after hurricane activity around the 1950s. The study found that strong public support and political backing were crucial factors in advancing one project, while the other failed to gain momentum due to environmental concer...

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalJournal of Water Resources Planning and Management·TypeCase study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Potential for profits gives Rice lab’s plastic waste project promise

Scientists at Rice University have developed a new technique using the 'flash Joule' method to transform plastic waste into high-value carbon nanotubes and hybrid nanomaterials. This process is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for recycling plastic waste.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Engineered wood grows stronger while trapping carbon dioxide

Rice University scientists have developed a method to engineer wood that traps carbon dioxide while increasing its strength. This process involves removing lignin and hemicellulose from the wood and replacing them with metal-organic framework particles, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.

SourceRice University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

THE LANCET: Most comprehensive study to date provides evidence on natural immunity protection by COVID-19 variant and how protection fades over time

A comprehensive review and meta-analysis published in The Lancet suggests that natural immunity from COVID-19 infection provides significant protection against hospitalization, symptomatic disease, and severe illness for at least 10 months. However, this protection declines over time, with an estimated 85% protection rate at one month ...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 16, 2023

SUTD researchers developed novel 2D material with virus to kill cancer cells

Scientists from SUTD design a novel thermal-based therapy nano-system that destroys over 20% of pancreatic cancer cells using microsecond electrical pulses, improving cancer cell targeting accuracy and bio-compatibility. The introduction of the M13 virus enhances electro-thermal therapy performance by assembling more on cancer cells.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalPharmaceutics·DateFeb 16, 2023

Travellers as sentinels: what are the most common vector-borne diseases among European travellers arriving from Africa?

Researchers analyzed data on European travellers arriving from Africa between 2015 and 2019, finding malaria as the most common arthropod-borne disease. The study highlights the importance of using travellers' health data to complement local surveillance systems in Africa.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 16, 2023

Avoiding a global chocolate disaster – how tracing and recalls avoided a worldwide Salmonella outbreak

A European-wide recall of Kinder Chocolate products, including eggs, prevented thousands of extra cases of Salmonella Typhimurium. The recall, triggered by intensive collaboration between public health experts, food safety agencies, and regular surveillance, saved lives and reduced the risk of devastating global outbreak.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 16, 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.

Multiple sclerosis discovery could end disease’s chronic inflammation

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a vital contributor to hyperactive immune responses and neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis. Blocking this regulator alleviated harmful inflammation in lab mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateFeb 16, 2023

AI could improve mental health care

A new study from Lund University suggests that allowing patients to describe their mental health in free language can provide more precise diagnoses than traditional rating scales. The AI-tool, developed by researchers, enables doctors to analyze patients' answers and provides individualized care.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 16, 2023

What do early Earth’s core formation and drip coffee have in common?

Researchers use heavy hydraulic presses to mimic early Earth's conditions and recreate the differentiation process in miniature. They found that iron melts could pass through grain boundaries, exchanging chemical elements like oxygen and sulfur with the surrounding mantle.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 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.

Assessing the benefits of digital microfluidics for bacterial protocols

The article analyzes digital microfluidics' (DMF) benefits for bacterial protocols, highlighting its versatility and potential applications in synthetic biology and diagnostics. DMF's electrostatic forces manipulate microdroplets on a plate, enabling sample preparation and nucleic acid detection.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 16, 2023

Discovery in zebrafish may lead to a better understanding of a wide range of mental health disorders related to stress, anxiety

Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified a critical molecule in the development of brain's stress response, which may lead to better understanding of stress-related mental health disorders. Deficiencies in DSCAML1 disrupt brain development and increase cortisol levels, leading to imbalanced stress responses.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·DateFeb 16, 2023

New technology revolutionizes the analysis of old ice

Researchers at the University of Bern and Empa have developed a new technique to measure greenhouse gases in ancient ice cores, enabling more accurate climate records. The method allows for high-resolution analysis of the oldest ice, which contains 15,000 to 20,000 years of climate history compressed into one meter.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·DateFeb 16, 2023

New UC San Diego model predicts housing prices to fall as much as 18% this year

A new UC San Diego model uses internet search data to predict housing price declines, with a national forecast of a 5% decrease. Cities like San Diego and Phoenix are predicted to experience significant price drops, while others, such as Scranton-Wilkes-Barre-Hazleton and Kansas City, are expected to see stable prices.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalManagement Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 16, 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.

Small Molecule Drug Reverses ADAR1-induced Cancer Stem Cell Cloning Capacity

Researchers have discovered a late-stage small molecule inhibitor called rebecsinib that reverses ADAR1-induced cancer stem cell cloning capacity. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating various types of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 16, 2023

CHOP study finds multidisciplinary approach best when assisting families with limited English proficiency

Pediatric patients with LEP face challenges in emergency rooms, but a CHOP study shows that implementing quality improvement measures can increase the use of medical interpreters and improve documentation of language needs. The research team introduced new processes to identify language needs and offer interpreters as needed, leading t...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Fiber discovery could shape better gut health

A team of scientists has discovered that changing the structure of psyllium fibre can promote healthy gut bacteria and reduce gas formation. The findings have significant implications for people with fiber intolerances and irritable bowel conditions.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalFood Hydrocolloids·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Long COVID symptoms vary among racial and ethnic groups

A new study found that Black and Hispanic patients are more likely to experience persistent symptoms or be diagnosed with a new medical condition after COVID-19. The study analyzed data from over 60,000 patients and found significant racial and ethnic disparities in the frequency and types of post-COVID-19 symptoms.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 16, 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.

Swapping meat for Quorn’s mycoprotein may protect against bowel cancer, says study

Replacing red and processed meat with Quorn's mycoprotein reduces intestinal genotoxins, a risk factor for bowel cancer, and increases beneficial gut bacteria. The study found significant reductions in harmful chemicals and improvements in gut health in participants consuming the mycoprotein diet.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 16, 2023

Climate: Lessons from the latest global warming

Researchers found that the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, a 5-8°C warming event, was caused by high carbon dioxide and methane levels. The team's study provides new insights into sedimentary systems and the impact of seasonal changes on ocean turbidity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGeology·TypeNews article·DateFeb 16, 2023

Receptor location matters for psychedelic drug effects

Researchers at UC Davis found that engaging serotonin 2A receptors inside neurons promotes growth of new connections, while the same receptors on cell surfaces do not. This discovery guides efforts to develop new treatments for depression and PTSD.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Indicator of early form of Parkinson’s in stool sample

Researchers have discovered a method to detect α-synuclein aggregates in stool samples, indicating an early form of Parkinson's disease. This finding could lead to the development of a non-invasive diagnostic tool, enabling therapies to be initiated at an early stage.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·DateFeb 16, 2023

High intensity fires do not reverse bush encroachment in an African savanna

A decade-long experiment found that high-intensity fires did not reverse bush encroachment in the long term, despite an initial decline in woody plant cover. The study suggests that fire management strategies must be tailored to each local context and that long-term monitoring is crucial for effective conservation.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 16, 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.

Adapting intellectual property law for AI governance

A new approach, CAITE, leverages copyleft licensing and patent trolling to regulate AI development and deployment. The system would enforce ethical terms and conditions on AI products and derivatives.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2023

One-time tax items aren’t earnings misconduct

New research from Texas McCombs finds that most nonrecurring income taxes are driven by legitimate business causes rather than efforts to manipulate earnings. The study analyzed 68,139 quarterly earnings reports and found no predictive power for future profits or tax rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalReview of Accounting Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 16, 2023

The secrets of polydopamine coatings revealed

Researchers at the University of Groningen have discovered the exact structure of polydopamine coatings, which could lead to new applications in surface adhesion and neurodegenerative disease treatment. The study found that these coatings form through auto-oxidation, crosslinking and isomerization processes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

CBD shows promise for reducing cigarette smoking

Researchers at Washington State University found that CBD inhibits a key enzyme for nicotine metabolism, slowing down its effects and allowing smokers to wait before feeling the urge to smoke. The study suggests that CBD could be a useful tool in reducing harm from smoking and quitting nicotine addiction.

SourceWashington State University·JournalChemical Research in Toxicology·DateFeb 16, 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.

ACC, AHA, SCAI release new training guidance for interventional cardiology

The new clinical document defines the required competencies for interventional cardiology, providing trainees with information to support training across all areas. Trainees must acquire experience working as part of a multidisciplinary team and complete a minimum of 250 procedures.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 16, 2023

Ukraine energy crisis may push millions into extreme poverty

A new study reveals that rising energy prices triggered by the Russia-Ukraine conflict could push up to 141 million more people around the globe into extreme poverty. Households' energy costs are likely to rise by 62.6% - 112.9%, contributing to a 2.7% - 4.8% hike in household expenditure and cost-of-living pressures.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 16, 2023

NIH software assembles complete genome sequences on-demand

Verkko software assembles gapless human genome sequences quickly and precisely, enabling better assessment of genomic diversity and comparative genomics. This innovation accelerates efforts to generate complete genome sequences of various species, improving research and discovery in the field.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 16, 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.

Study demonstrates energy-efficient conversion of nitrate pollutants into ammonia

A new study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign demonstrates an approach for integrated capture and conversion of nitrate-contaminated waters into valuable ammonia using a single electrochemical cell. The device shows significant enhancements in energy efficiency, nitrate removal, and ammonium production rate compared to ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Using spiders as environmentally-friendly pest control

Research suggests that tropical tent web spiders can eat a devastating pest moth of commercially important crops like tomato and potato. The spiders' ability to form groups and create large webs makes them effective biological control agents.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalInsects·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 16, 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.

Operation Pangolin launches to save world’s most trafficked wild mammal

The Operation Pangolin project aims to save the world's eight pangolin species by generating data to inform conservation strategies and implementing wildlife crime prevention efforts in Central Africa. The team will use novel technology and artificial intelligence methods to address the illicit wildlife trade and prevent extinction.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·DateFeb 16, 2023

American Society for Nutrition publishes comprehensive summary of historic White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health

The American Society for Nutrition has published a comprehensive summary of the landmark White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health. The conference outlined ambitious goals to end hunger and improve nutrition security by 2030, with recommendations from President Biden's National Strategy.

SourceAmerican Society for Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeNews article·DateFeb 16, 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.

New study settles long-standing debate: Does agricultural erosion create a carbon sink or source

A new study published in Biogeosciences suggests that agricultural soil erosion may actually create an organic carbon sink, rather than a source. The researchers argue that the 'geomorphic OC pump' transfers organic carbon from the atmosphere to upland soils, which can be stored in sedimentary environments.

SourceEuropean Geosciences Union·JournalBiogeosciences·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 16, 2023

Recent advance on structural design of high-performance Pt-based nanocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction

Researchers have made significant progress in developing high-performance Pt-based nanocatalysts for oxygen reduction reactions, focusing on increasing activity per site and active sites. The study aims to reduce the cost of PEMFCs by overcoming the challenges associated with Pt metal catalysts.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Sensor and Energy Materials·DateFeb 16, 2023

Resistance is futile

Researchers developed an antibiotic that cured mice infected with nearly untreatable bacteria, with virtually undetectable resistance to the drug. The unique mechanism of action targets multiple bacterial functions, disrupting the bacterial membrane and leading to broad-spectrum antibacterial activity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 16, 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.

Physicists solve durability issue in next-generation solar cells

Researchers at UToledo discovered a way to enhance adhesion and mechanical toughness in perovskite solar cells using DPPP, improving durability and power conversion efficiency. The breakthrough allows for the commercialization of new photovoltaic technology to replace silicon and lower cost of solar electricity.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Machine learning helps determine success of advanced genome editing

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm to predict the chances of successful prime editing gene edits, assessing thousands of DNA sequences and identifying key factors such as sequence length and DNA repair mechanisms. The tool promises to speed up efforts to bring prime editing into the clinic.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Can gene discovery methods halt the global march of wheat blast?

Researchers used AgRenSeq genomic discovery method to identify two genes protecting experimental wheat plants against wheat blast. The study highlights the power of heritage wheat varieties and wild grass relatives in providing disease-fighting diversity.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

*Free* Personalizing immunotherapy to treat tumors wins prize

Aleksandar Obradovic's work harnesses anti-tumor immune response with tailored cancer immunotherapy, combining drug treatments and immune-response therapeutics. He developed algorithms to predict drug sensitivity and identify groups of cells associated with treatment resistance.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 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.