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Science News Archive February 2023 - Page 25


Page 25 of 36

Scientists boost quantum signals while reducing noise

Researchers have developed a new device that can effectively redistribute noise and reduce its impact on quantum measurements. By 'squeezing' the noise, they can make more accurate measurements, enabling faster and more precise quantum systems. The device has the potential to improve multi-qubit systems and metrological applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 9, 2023

Progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries

Researchers have made progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries by growing uniform lithium crystals on a lithiophobic nanocomposite surface. This approach enables charging in about an hour, competitive with today's lithium-ion batteries and overcoming a significant roadblock to widespread use.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Single-dose antibiotic prevents maternal sepsis and death

A single oral dose of azithromycin can reduce postpartum sepsis and death among women who deliver vaginally by one-third, according to a large clinical trial. The study enrolled over 29,000 women in seven low- and middle-income countries and found that only 1.6% developed sepsis or died within six weeks after delivery.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2023

Calorie restriction slows pace of aging in healthy adults

A randomized controlled trial found that calorie restriction slowed the pace of biological aging in healthy adults by 2-3%, measured using the DunedinPACE algorithm, which translates to a 10-15% reduction in mortality risk. The intervention had no effects on other epigenetic clocks.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Aging·DateFeb 9, 2023

New damselfly sharing habitat with UK natives

A new study by the University of Exeter found that a small red-eyed damselfly from Europe has established itself in the UK without harming native species. Most native dragonflies and damselflies were either found more often or unchanged in areas colonized by the newcomer.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 9, 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.

Oncolytic virus treatment produces promising results in patients with triple-negative breast cancer

A phase 2 trial found that talimogene laherparepvec combined with chemotherapy provided strong responses and immune cell activation in 45.9% of patients with early stage triple-negative breast cancer. Tumor samples showed high levels of tumor-fighting T cells, indicating a potential for improved outcomes.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2023

Sensing water for smarter agriculture

Researchers at KAUST have developed a rapid and sensitive soil moisture sensor using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to optimize water usage in agriculture. The MOF-based sensor shows high sensitivity and selectivity for water even in the presence of metal ions, enabling precise irrigation management.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 9, 2023

EU responsible for extinction domino effect on frog populations

A new study reveals the EU's massive demand for frog legs has led to a global trade chain threatening frog populations, with Southeast Asian and Eastern European species facing extinction. The authors call for greater transparency and monitoring of pesticide residues in traded frogs' legs to ensure sustainability.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateFeb 9, 2023

HETDEX reveals galaxy gold mine in first large survey

Astronomers have cataloged over 51,863 Lyman-alpha-emitting galaxies, 123,891 star-forming galaxies, and 4,976 active galactic nuclei using HETDEX's spectroscopic data. The survey is a non-targeted, moon-sized survey that collects spectra from 35,000 fiber optic cables, providing a unique dataset for future galaxy mapping.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Spanish lagoon used to better understand wet-to-dry transition of Mars

A new study proposes focusing on time-resolved analogs to analyze changes in dynamic environments over many years. The researchers used the extremely salty Tirez lagoon in central Spain, which had experienced alternating dry and wet periods before reaching total desiccation in 2015.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 8, 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.

Capacity of new electrode material Na3V2(PO4)3 improved in new study

Scientists have successfully improved the specific capacity of Na3V2(PO4)3, a new electrode material. The researchers achieved this by reducing crystallinity and inserting three sodium ions, resulting in excellent rate performance and cycle stability.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 8, 2023

New ESA journal collection spotlights Black scholarship in ecology

The Ecological Society of America showcases the contributions of Black scholars to 21st-century ecology, exploring historical erasure and public health injustices. The virtual collection features open-access articles addressing disparities in environmental engagement and conservation.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateFeb 8, 2023

Is a Government program to tackle childhood obesity doing more harm than good?

A UK government program aimed at tackling childhood obesity may be having negative effects on children's mental health and relationships with food. The study found that some families expressed concerns about the potential for weight-related teasing and stigma, which can lead to poorer self-perceptions and unhealthy dieting behaviors.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCritical Public Health·DateFeb 8, 2023

Reducing pesticide pollution and the intensity of harvesting can increase crop yield and contribute to climate change mitigation

Researchers at the University of Turku found that reducing pesticide pollution and harvesting intensity can increase crop yields and contribute to climate change mitigation. By optimizing carbon sequestration and storage in soils, farmers can improve plant resilience and productivity, while minimizing environmental harm.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Sustainable Agriculture and Environment·DateFeb 8, 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.

Killer whale mums pay high price for raising sons

A new study found that killer whale mothers pay a high price for raising their sons, with each living son cutting their annual breeding likelihood in half. This lifelong burden on mothers has significant implications for the future viability of the southern resident killer whale population, which is critically endangered.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Navigating complex biological systems with smart fibers

Researchers at Tohoku University developed flexible polymer-based actuatable fibers with integrated shape-memory alloy wires and biochemical sensing composite materials. The technology enables high-precision operations, closed-loop control, and diagnostic capabilities for soft robotic fields and minimally invasive surgical tools.

SourceTohoku University·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·DateFeb 8, 2023

Whiskers help nectar-eating “acro bats” hover like hummingbirds

Researchers found that nectar-feeding bats rely on extra-long whiskers to navigate flowers while feeding, providing enhanced spatial information. Clipping whiskers reduced agility but didn't impact feeding ability.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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.

Size of X-Ray beams successfully evaluated with mathematics

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a new method to evaluate X-ray microbeam diameter using mathematical analysis, outperforming conventional methods. The uniform evaluation method is expected to be widely adopted as an international standard.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalX-Ray Spectrometry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 2023

Regenstrief-led study shows enhanced spiritual care improves well-being of ICU surrogate decision-makers

A Regenstrief-led study found that enhanced spiritual care for family members of ICU patients resulted in a clinically significant decline in anxiety and improved spiritual well-being. The study demonstrated the importance of chaplains to the long-term psychological health of surrogate decision-makers.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Pain and Symptom Management·DateFeb 8, 2023

A new ring system discovered in our Solar System

A new ring system has been found around the Pluto-sized dwarf planet Quaoar, which orbits beyond Neptune. The discovery is remarkable because it lies at a distance of over seven planetary radii from its parent body, posing a challenge to existing theories of ring formation.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Mandrills teach their daughters good hygiene practices

In a study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society of London B, researchers found that mandrill females pass on hygienic practices to their daughters, reducing parasite infection. This social transmission of hygiene has potential consequences for infectious disease dynamics in primate groups.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateFeb 8, 2023

A culturally adapted online experience improves type 2 diabetes nutrition education for American Indians and Alaska Natives

A culturally adapted online experience improved type 2 diabetes nutrition education for American Indians and Alaska Natives. The program prioritized traditional food practices and mindful eating activities, leading to increased engagement and positive experiences among participants.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 8, 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.

Controllable ‘defects’ improve performance of lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at North Carolina State University used a new laser technique to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries. The technique creates tiny defects in graphite material, which can enhance battery performance, increase current capacity by up to 20%, and reduce the risk of fires. However, excessive defects can lead to probl...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Investigation of NiFe based catalysts for water oxidation in different pH electrolytes

Researchers investigated NiFe-based catalysts for water oxidation in different pH electrolytes, revealing a clear pH-dependent OER activity. The study found that forming high-valent Ni3+ and Fe4+ species requires higher potential in neutral and near-neutral conditions compared to alkaline conditions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateFeb 8, 2023

Worldwide prevalence rates and trends of eczema in youth

Eczema affects approximately 6% of children and adolescents worldwide, with a median prevalence rate of 3.5%. Researchers analyzed data from 14 countries involving over 74,000 adolescents and found an average increase in eczema symptoms of 0.98% per decade among adolescents and 1.21% per decade among children.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·DateFeb 8, 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.

New strategy proposed for efficient degradation of antibiotics

Researchers developed a pre-assembly strategy to anchor single atoms on carbon nitride nanosheets, increasing catalytic activity by 1-2 orders of magnitude for tetracycline pollutant degradation. The study demonstrates versatility in Fenton-like catalysis and great ability to treat organic pollutants.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·DateFeb 8, 2023

Researchers find distortion-free forms of structured light

Researchers from University of the Witwatersrand developed a new approach to studying complex light in complex systems. They found distortion-free forms of structured light that emerge undistorted from noisy channels, unlike other forms of structured light which become unrecognizable. This breakthrough has the potential to pave the wa...

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateFeb 8, 2023

Covid vaccination in pregnancy protects infants against infection and hospital admission

A recent study published by The BMJ found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy may have benefits for both mother and baby. Two doses of mRNA Covid-19 vaccine were highly effective against delta infection, while two doses against omicron infection showed moderate effectiveness. A third dose during pregnancy also bolstered protecti...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 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.

Chung-Ang University researchers review deep learning-based methods to detect time series data anomaly

A group of researchers from Chung-Ang University have summarized the applications based on anomaly detection in multivariate time series. They evaluated the current state-of-the-art anomaly detection techniques and addressed the challenges associated with them, providing a thorough overview of the applications for anomaly detection in ...

SourceChung Ang University·JournalInformation Fusion·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 8, 2023

Nickel nanowires enhances microwave absorption, study finds

Researchers synthesized polyvinylpyrrolidone coated nickel nanowires using a solvothermal method assisted by high magnetic fields, resulting in enhanced microwave absorption. The material exhibited a minimum reflection loss of 29.82 dB at 4.08 GHz and an effective absorption bandwidth of over 3.6 GHz.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateFeb 8, 2023

Surface-lattice-confinement effect accelerate hydrogen spillover

Researchers observed accelerated hydrogen spillover via surface-lattice-confinement effect on MnO and Mn3O4 monolayers. This acceleration was found to be up to four times faster than on Mn3O4, with a uniform O-O distance favoring hydrogen diffusion.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 8, 2023

New way to rearrange store products could boost impulse buying

A Washington State University-led research team created a product allocation model that leverages past customer transactions to provide brick-and-mortar stores with personalized shopping experiences. The model identifies profitable products, item associations, and past-aisle impulse to determine ideal product placement and optimize sto...

SourceWashington State University·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateFeb 8, 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.

How does COVID-19 compare with bacterial and viral pneumonia for older patients in intensive care?

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that COVID-19 is associated with higher mortality rates compared to bacterial and viral pneumonia among older patients in intensive care units. The study analyzed data from over 11,500 patients aged 70 years and older who were admitted to Dutch ICUs, revea...

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 8, 2023

Phthalate exposure may increase diabetes risk in women

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that phthalate exposure may contribute to a higher incidence of diabetes in women. The research, which studied 1,308 women over six years, showed that White women exposed to high levels of certain phthalates had a 30-63% higher chance of developing diabetes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 8, 2023

Study in Nature discovers causal mechanism behind rare hereditary diseases

Researchers discovered a causal mechanism behind BPTA syndrome by identifying a change in the HMGB1 protein that disrupts cellular self-organization. This disruption leads to developmental disorders and predisposition to cancer, with hundreds of comparable genetic changes associated with various conditions.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature·DateFeb 8, 2023

Understanding customer participation: the secret to seeking feedback for subscription boxes

A new study examines how customer participation in subscription box services translates into outcomes that benefit companies. The researchers found that customers who provided feedback before or after receiving their box were more likely to make future purchases, with a 14% increase in revenue for those who participated before and an 5...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateFeb 8, 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.

Artificial sweetener as wastewater tracer

A new study by the University of Vienna shows that the persistence of acesulfame varies with temperature, making it an effective tracer for groundwater flows. The research team analyzed seasonal fluctuations in acesulfame concentrations to better understand subsurface processes and optimise waterworks operations.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalWater Research·DateFeb 8, 2023

Griffith unlocking the secrets to Strep A virulence

Researchers at Griffith University have identified Streptolysin O (SLO) as a crucial factor in the severity of Strep A infections. The study found that SLO alters host cell interactions and increases Strep A viability, leading to more severe cases.

SourceGriffith University·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

What makes people care about the environment?

A new study by Jonas Peisker found that favorable economic contexts, such as high income levels and low inflation, foster environmental concern. Social cohesion also played a significant role in prioritizing environmental issues. Regions with greenhouse gas-intensive industries had lower environmental concerns among locals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateFeb 8, 2023

Nursing home experts unveil path toward quality improvements

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report outlines bold and actionable recommendations to transform nursing home care delivery and environment. The Moving Forward Nursing Home Quality Coalition has been established to take action on these issues and improve nursing home quality nationwide.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateFeb 8, 2023

Scientists develop AI-based method to predict RNA modifications

A team of researchers developed an AI-based method called m6Anet to accurately predict chemical modifications of RNA molecules from genomic data. This enables the detection of RNA modifications in clinical samples and understanding their role in diseases such as cancer.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 8, 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.

Algorithms for hiring: Bias in, bias out

Researchers tested three common techniques to make algorithms fairer and found that one approach didn't reduce social norm bias at all. They proposed a new technique: a formula to directly measure social norm bias in an algorithm so it can be corrected. This bias can persist even after overt discrimination is removed.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalData Mining and Knowledge Discovery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 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.

Scanning for the best results: pediatric trauma team helps reduce radiation exposure in children

A pediatric trauma team at Golisano Children's Hospital significantly reduced unnecessary CT scans, minimizing radiation exposure and healthcare costs. The team's efforts, which included adapting existing guidelines and developing new ones, resulted in a 45% reduction in non-indicated scans.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Pediatric Surgery·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 8, 2023

Donor hearts can be reprogrammed with medication for longer storage, improved transplant outcomes

A new study found that a medication previously used to treat seizures can reprogram donor hearts to boost the production of beneficial enzymes, increasing storage time and improving post-transplant function. This technology could lead to a paradigm shift in extending heart storage and reducing primary graft dysfunction.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Could space dust help protect the earth from climate change?

A new study proposes using space dust as a sunshield to mitigate global warming. The team found that launching lunar dust from the moon into orbit at the Lagrange Point between Earth and the sun could provide effective shading, but would require precise simulations and an astronomical cost.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalPLOS Climate·DateFeb 8, 2023

Marine reserves unlikely to restore marine ecosystems

A study led by researchers from the University of Barcelona found that marine reserves are unlikely to restore food webs in marine ecosystems. The protection of fishing did not cause significant changes in trophic structure, but it favored the recovery of some species like the dusky grouper.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalICES Journal of Marine Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 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.

Study: abortion views closely tied to views on race, religion

A new study reveals a strong relationship between attitudes on abortion and race, with those holding low racial resentment scores more likely to support abortion rights. The researchers found this connection has grown stronger in recent years, regardless of partisan affiliation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 8, 2023

Scientists propose a novel NO2 sensor based on static magnetic field faraday rotation spectroscopy

A new NO2 sensor has been proposed using static magnetic field faraday rotation spectroscopy, featuring high species specificity and detection sensitivity. The sensor detects paramagnetic molecules by analyzing changes in light polarization caused by a gaseous medium immersed in an external magnetic field.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 8, 2023