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Science News Archive February 2023 - Page 26


Page 26 of 36

Encouraging physical activity to upgrade quality of life

A Texas A&M University study found that an intervention program increased physical activity in older rural women, leading to improved quality of life and reduced health risks. The Strong Hearts, Healthy Communities 2.0 program was successful in increasing exercise levels at both 12 and 24 weeks.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateFeb 8, 2023

Discovery of T-cells that protect against deadly pneumococcal disease

A study by University of Liverpool researchers reveals how a unique subset of lung T regulatory cells provide resistance to bacteraemic pneumonia. These cells, known as TNFR2 expressing Tregs, play a critical role in maintaining and controlling frontline host immune responses when pneumococci infect the lungs. The findings have signifi...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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.

Air pollution linked with blood pressure in London teens

A study of 3,284 London adolescents found associations between air pollutants and blood pressure. Higher nitrogen dioxide exposure was linked to lower systolic blood pressure in girls, while higher particulate matter 2.5 exposure was linked to higher systolic blood pressure in boys.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Predicting DCIS upgrade to invasive cancer at breast surgery with ultrafast imaging

Ultrafast MRI provides beneficial information for predicting DCIS upgrade to invasive cancer, including time to enhancement and lesion size. A study found that UF-MRI can accurately predict lesions diagnosed as DCIS at percutaneous biopsy that will be upgraded to invasive cancer at surgery.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 8, 2023

New evolutionary insights from stepping outside the lab

Researchers used unconventional methods to study fruit fly phenotypes, finding that loss of epigenetic mark led to changes in behavior, gene expression, metabolism, and offspring production. This knowledge can aid in predicting ecological patterns of change in wild animal populations.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unemployment due to brain, spine cancer linked to more pain, depression

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with primary central nervous system tumors who are unemployed experience more severe symptoms of pain, discomfort, anxiety, and depression compared to those employed. The research also highlights disparities in unemployment rates among different demographics, such as Hispan...

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 8, 2023

Space dust as Earth’s sun shield

A University of Utah-led study explores using space dust as a shield to reduce solar radiation and slow global warming. Launching lunar dust from the moon instead of Earth's way station at L1 could be an effective and cheap solution.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 8, 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.

Keeping SARS-CoV-2 closed for business with small molecules

Scientists have identified small molecules that can target the 'Achilles' heel' of SARS-CoV-2, a less mutation-prone segment of the spike protein. These compounds could serve as a starting point for developing effective treatments for COVID-19.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateFeb 8, 2023

A severe begomovirus-satellite DNA disease complex in Texas lower Rio Grande valley okra fields and its potential threat to cotton production: New “focus on cotton” webcast

A severe begomovirus-satellite DNA disease complex has been detected in okra fields in the lower Rio Grande Valley area of Texas, posing a significant threat to cotton production. The complex involves the exotic cotton leaf curl Gezira virus and its associated satellite DNA molecules.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateFeb 8, 2023

Breakthrough technology transforms waste plastic bottles into polymers for lithium-ion batteries

A team of A*STAR scientists has successfully upcycled waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic into polymer electrolytes, key components for safer lithium-ion batteries. The study achieved room temperature conductivity comparable to existing commercial systems and showed promising performance in repeatedly charged and discharged ...

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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.

Endangered Bahamas bird may be lost from island following hurricane

Researchers at the University of East Anglia found that the Bahama Warbler may only survive on Abaco island after Hurricane Dorian devastated its forest habitat on Grand Bahama. The study, published in Bird Conservation International, reveals that the bird prefers areas with taller, more mature trees and can adapt to burnt vegetation.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBird Conservation International·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

New economic model finds Fracture Liaison Services are highly effective

A new economic model estimates the health benefits and budget impact of Fracture Liaison Services, showing significant reductions in fragility fractures, hospital bed days, and social care costs. The model suggests that FLS implementation would lead to improved patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 2023

Biosensors change the way water contamination is detected

Researchers from Northwestern University have developed a new biosensor device that accurately detects toxic levels of fluoride in water, allowing for easy use outside of a lab. The device has been field-tested in rural Kenya, showing excellent accuracy and usability results.

SourceNorthwestern University·Journalnpj Clean Water·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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.

New formulation of FDA-approved drug shows encouraging results for treating a common itch condition

A Phase 2 clinical trial found that patients with notalgia paresthetica experienced a significant reduction in itch intensity after taking oral difelikefalin. The medication, currently approved for chronic kidney disease, has the potential to become the first FDA-approved treatment specifically for this condition.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 8, 2023

The ants go marching … methodically

Researchers at the University of Arizona found that rock ants follow a methodical search strategy, combining systematized meandering with random movement to efficiently explore new areas. This unique behavior may provide insights into the evolution of exploration strategies in other species.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·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.

Free speech vs. harmful misinformation: How people resolve dilemmas in online content moderation

A study of over 2,500 U.S. respondents found that most would remove posts spreading misinformation about democratic elections, vaccinations, the Holocaust, and climate change. Characteristics like topic, severity, and repetition had a stronger impact on decisions than account characteristics.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Human Development·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 8, 2023

Study finds support for second look sentencing

A new study found widespread support for second look sentencing, with respondents backing the approach regardless of age. Factors such as petitioners' intent to reform and victim support increased support for release. The study suggests that releasing reformed individuals can reduce costs and enhance public safety.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateFeb 8, 2023

Complications in pregnancy linked to increased risk of heart disease

A new study by researchers from Lund University in Sweden has found that women with pregnancy complications are at an increased risk of heart disease. The study revealed that women with pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension had visible atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries, compared to those without complications.

SourceLund University·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 8, 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.

Toward practical quantum optics: multiphoton qubits from LNOI

Researchers from Nanjing University have proposed the first scheme to practically generate N-photon states deterministically using a lithium-niobate-on-insulator platform. The scheme involves deterministic parametric down-conversion and demonstrates feasibility for generating multiphoton qubit states.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateFeb 8, 2023

Heavy necking: New insights into the sex life of giraffes

Male giraffes test female sexual receptivity by nudging them to urinate, then inhaling their scent with flehmen. This behavior is crucial for mating and understanding giraffe anatomy supports it.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAnimals·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Solar-powered gel filters enough clean water to meet daily needs

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new solar absorber gel technology that can filter pollutants from water, producing almost fourfold more filtration rate than its predecessor. The device can provide enough clean water to meet daily demand in many parts of the world.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Extreme earners are not extremely smart

A new study from Linköping University found that cognitive ability levels do not differentiate wages among top earners, contrary to common defenses of their extraordinary earnings. Average ability plates at a modest level of +1 standard deviation above average cognitive ability for those earning above €60,000 annual wage.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEuropean Sociological Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·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.

New approach puts brain scans on the witness stand in trademark disputes

Researchers propose using brain scans to measure similarity in trademark cases, reducing inconsistencies and bias. This approach provides a reliable method for determining similarity without relying on subjective surveys or expert opinions.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Less lung tissue removal needed for early-stage cancer, study finds

A phase 3 clinical trial of nearly 700 patients with early-stage lung cancer found that sublobar resection surgery, removing part of the affected lobe, was as effective as traditional lobectomy in terms of disease-free and overall survival. Patients who underwent sublobar resection also showed modestly better lung function.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 8, 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.

The geometry of conflict

Conflicts between divergent goals can continue indefinitely through evolutionary time, causing devastating damage to complex organisms and social structures. Modular design is a crucial enabler of complex adaptation and transformative changes in social organisation.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 2023

Breastfeeding may reduce arsenic exposure in infants in arsenic-contaminated areas

A study published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that breastfeeding can reduce arsenic exposure in infants compared to formula feeding. Researchers measured arsenic levels in mothers, babies, and breast milk, revealing a clear association between maternal and neonatal arsenic exposure.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 8, 2023

Trained dogs can sniff out a deadly deer disease

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's Working Dog Center trained dogs to distinguish between healthy and diseased deer feces. The dogs showed great specificity in detecting CWD-positive samples, suggesting a potential asset in managing the highly contagious disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalPrion·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Severe weather straining electrical grids: new research mitigates demand surges, increasing grid reliability and reducing costs

A new study in Management Science finds that direct load control contracts can reduce peak-demand energy costs by about 5% and summer peak demand by 4,000 megawatt hours. By controlling air conditioners and other devices in residential and commercial units, utilities can increase grid reliability and reduce electricity costs.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·TypeCase study·DateFeb 8, 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.

Study reveals that much still not known about cognitive decline

A national study found that common risk factors for cognitive decline, such as socioeconomic status and education, explained a modest 38% of the variation in mental abilities among older Americans. Health behaviors like exercise had a small effect on functioning, with only 5.6% explaining the rate of cognitive decline.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 8, 2023

'We're not all that different': Study IDs bacterial weapons that could be harnessed to treat human disease

Researchers discovered a cluster of enzymes in bacteria that can be reprogrammed to edit proteins and potentially treat human diseases such as Parkinson's and Crohn's. The study also identified key components of the bacterial immune system, including two on-off switches, that could be targeted therapeutically.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·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.

Microbiome disturbances reported as signature of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health have identified differences in gut microbiomes between people with ME/CFS and healthy controls. Gut bacteria Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Eubacterium rectale, which are normally health-promoting, were reduced in ME/CFS participants. The study found a deficient mic...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023

Endothelial exploration

Researchers have identified a new protein in the cerebrospinal fluid that can reliably detect endothelial injury, a key contributor to cognitive impairment in pre-symptomatic stages of Alzheimer's. The discovery offers hope for improving diagnostic tests and potentially preventing damage to the brain endothelium.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 8, 2023

Review calls for a refreshed look at clinical approach to heart muscle disorder

Excessive trabeculation of the left ventricle does not coalesce into a compact myocardial wall, making 'LV non-compaction' an inaccurate term that should be discouraged. The review recommends using 'excessive trabeculation', which can be observed across various health and disease states.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJACC Cardiovascular Imaging·TypeLiterature review·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.

Studies find that microbiome changes may be a signature for ME/CFS

Researchers found differences in gut microbiomes of people with ME/CFS compared to healthy controls, indicating a potential role for the microbiome in the disease. Abnormal levels of specific bacteria and metabolites were associated with reduced butyrate production, which is essential for gut health.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·DateFeb 8, 2023

Refining cotton nitrogen recommendations: New “focus on cotton” webcast

A new webcast from the American Phytopathological Society provides insights into soil biophysical properties and nitrogen application rates in predicting cotton yield and quality. The study suggests including soil biophysical information in making N recommendations to maximize profits and reduce environmental impact.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·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.

Goethe University study: Investors also suffer in unregulated competitions for freely available resources

A new game theory study by Professor Claudius Gros finds that unregulated competition can lead to catastrophic poverty for investors, with profits scaling as 1/N². Cooperation among investors can avoid this damage, resulting in a net profit corresponding to the number of investors.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 8, 2023

THE LANCET: No new COVID-19 variants have emerged during China's recent outbreak, analysis of cases in Beijing suggests

An analysis of cases in Beijing found that two existing Omicron sub-variants, BA.5.2 and BF.7, accounted for more than 90% of local infections between November 14 and December 20, 2022. The study suggests these variants are chiefly responsible for the current surge in Beijing, likely China as a whole.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 8, 2023

New method helps scientists better predict when volcanos will erupt

Scientists at Cornell University have discovered a way to precisely locate magma storage in volcanoes, offering improved risk assessment for eruptions. By analyzing carbon dioxide-rich fluids trapped within cooled crystals, they can determine the depth of magma storage and scorching reservoirs with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 8, 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.

Single-dose treatment reduces risk of COVID-19 hospitalization by half for high-risk patients in a largely vaccinated population

A single-dose of the antiviral drug peginterferon lambda reduced the risk of hospitalization or Emergency Department visit due to COVID-19 by half in high-risk patients. The treatment was effective across different variants of concern, including Omicron, and showed minimal side effects.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 8, 2023