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Science News Archive January 2023 - Page 12


Page 12 of 35

Mid-life moderate + vigorous physical activity quota associated with brain power

Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that daily moderate and vigorous physical activity is positively associated with mid-life brain power. However, replacing these activities with just 6-7 minutes of sedentary behavior negatively impacts cognitive performance. The study analyzed data from over 4,4...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Global study of hypoxia in rivers shows it is more prevalent than previously thought

A recent study compiled over 125,000 river locations across 93 countries, showing that hypoxia in rivers is more prevalent than previously thought. The research found that 12.6% of all locations exhibited at least one hypoxic measurement, with warmer, smaller, and lower-gradient waters being most affected.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 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.

Microbes could be used by farmers as natural fertilizer for poor soil

Researchers identified hundreds of microorganisms associated with plant roots and soil, showing potential for developing biological substitutes for phosphorus-based fertilizers. The discovery highlights the importance of microbial communities in supplying essential nutrients like nitrogen.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe ISME Journal·DateJan 23, 2023

Agriculture linked to changes in age-independent mortality in North America

A new study by a Penn State-led research team found that the intensification of crop use led to changes in age-independent mortality rates in pre-colonial North America. The first stage of agricultural intensification coincided with lower age-independent mortality, while the second stage was associated with a rise in it.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Origins of pleasurable touch traced from skin to brain in mice

Researchers have identified a full pathway from skin neurons to brain pleasure centers, revealing the neurobiological basis of pleasurable social touch. The study suggests that touch-based therapies may alleviate anxiety, stress, and depression, with potential applications for autism and other conditions.

SourceColumbia University·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

UTHSC team’s COVID data system highlighted as model for public health preparedness, population health surveillance

A UTHSC team developed a unique community-focused COVID-19 data registry, MEMPHI-SYS, to guide public health policies and interventions nationwide. The registry collects demographic information, geographic locations, medical history, and risk factors, providing insights into the spread and presentation of COVID.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Health Science Center·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateJan 23, 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.

Click beetle-inspired robots jump using elastic energy

Researchers have developed insect-sized jumping robots capable of navigating tight spaces, with a new study demonstrating two configurations that can successfully jump without manual intervention. The robots use a dynamic buckling cascade process to store and release elastic energy, allowing them to propel themselves upward.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Researchers create a low-cost sensor that detects heavy metals in sweat

Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a portable, flexible copper sensor that can detect heavy metals like lead and cadmium in sweat. The device is made from ordinary materials and is simple to produce, making it accessible for non-specialists and technicians.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemosensors·DateJan 23, 2023

Bisexuals use cannabis more frequently for coping, enhancement

A recent study found that bisexual individuals use cannabis more frequently than their straight counterparts, with a greater likelihood of using it to cope with mental health issues. The researchers also discovered that bisexual people are more likely to experience negative mental health outcomes, including depression and social anxiety.

SourceWashington State University·JournalCannabis and Cannabinoid Research·DateJan 23, 2023

CHOP researchers develop tool that reduces errors in stem cell transplant reporting

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a custom-built application to automate the determination of engraftment after hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The tool has been shown to improve accuracy of reported engraftments, reducing errors in neutrophil and platelet engraftment reporting.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalTransplantation and Cellular Therapy·DateJan 23, 2023

Meat import ban in Africa hurts local population

Researchers analyzed Ghana's chicken market, finding that EU imports depress local prices, harming poor and smallholder households. Higher tariffs would increase domestic prices, but benefits few, while cheap imports improve nutrition for low-income groups.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalFood Security·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 23, 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.

More effective protected areas needed to halt biodiversity loss

A new study found that protected natural areas of the UK are failing to stop declines in insects and spiders, despite being richer in species. The results suggest that while these areas conserve valuable habitats, they need more assistance to tackle wider threats posed by climate change, pollution, and invasive species.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 23, 2023

Researchers find that to achieve long-term sustainability, urban systems must tackle social justice and equity

Researchers emphasize the importance of inclusivity and understanding past policies affecting marginalized communities in urban planning, design, and public policy efforts. The study identified three core focus areas: social justice and equity, circularity, and digital twins, to address environmental issues and infrastructure challenges.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Dietary nitrate – found in beetroot juice - significantly increases muscle force during exercise

A new study found that consuming dietary nitrate from beetroot juice significantly increases muscle force while exercising. The researchers discovered a 7% increase in muscle torque production, providing the best evidence to date on the mechanisms behind why dietary nitrate improves human muscle performance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalActa Physiologica·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Importance of selectively targeting the mode of action of IL-15

Researchers review approaches to inhibit IL-15 and its receptor, exploring effects on inflammatory autoimmune diseases, transplantation, infectious diseases, and cancer. Clinical testing of humanized anti-IL-15 monoclonal antibodies reveals promising therapeutic potential.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Insulin underuse in primary care requires clinicians to remove barriers to patient access

A survey of primary care clinicians revealed that 44% of patients experience cost-related insulin underuse, with those experiencing poor diabetes control not being more likely to report underuse. Clinicians can address this issue by using empathy to discuss cost barriers and increase the likelihood of changing insulin prescriptions.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 23, 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.

January/February 2023 Annals of Family Medicine Tip Sheet

Primary care physicians and patients expressed concerns about digital detection surveillance of infectious diseases, including ambiguity over consent and potential discrimination. High-quality primary care was associated with reduced hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 23, 2023

The key to weathering rapid sea-level rise may lie in a Massachusetts salt marsh

A team of researchers found that coastal habitats can adapt to rapid sea-level rise by utilizing abundant sediment, which can help salt marshes survive. The study's key finding highlights the importance of re-infusing sediment into estuary systems when dredging is necessary.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface·DateJan 23, 2023

Our memory for objects might be better than we think

A study found that people can recall the location of over 100 objects on a grid with high accuracy, even after removing all images. Additionally, participants localized 60-80% of old items to within +/-10% of their correct time.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Dogs show things to humans but pigs do not

Researchers found that companion dogs, but not pigs, would show their owners the location of a food reward out-of-reach. This suggests that directing humans' attention to interesting locations may not be a universal ability among domestic animals. Dogs and other visually communicative species were more likely to use this behavior.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 23, 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.

Scientists have named regional factors that can affect the spread of COVID-19

Researchers found that regional factors such as ambient humidity, temperatures, population mobility, and household incomes significantly impact COVID-19 mortality rates. The study revealed that high humidity, low average temperatures, intensive migration, and higher incomes are associated with increased mortality.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPopulation and Economics·DateJan 23, 2023

Too little good quality sleep during teenage years may heighten subsequent MS risk

Insufficient sleep during teenage years is linked to a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality are associated with a 40% and 50% increased risk, respectively. The study suggests that sufficient restorative sleep may be an important preventive factor against MS.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeCase study·DateJan 23, 2023

Hospitals without highest stroke care designation may miss them after heart procedure

A Michigan Medicine study found that hospitals with the highest stroke care designation reported significantly higher rates of stroke detection after TAVR. The study suggests that comprehensive stroke centers are better at detecting smaller strokes, but this does not necessarily mean they are finding more strokes overall.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJACC Cardiovascular Interventions·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 2023

Can elephants save the planet?

A recent study reveals that elephants play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and storing atmospheric carbon in African rainforests. The loss of forest elephants would lead to reduced carbon sequestration, amplifying planetary warming. With critically endangered populations, conservation efforts must prioritize protecting these...

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 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.

How a 3 cm glass sphere could help scientists understand space weather

Researchers have successfully replicated the type of gravity that exists on or near stars and planets using a glass sphere measuring 3 cm in diameter. This achievement could help scientists understand and predict how solar weather affects spacecraft and satellite communications systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 23, 2023

Pheasants at risk on unfamiliar ground

Researchers found that pheasants are more likely to be killed by predators on unfamiliar ground, with 40% of the birds meeting their demise. The study suggests that experience within an area plays a critical role in determining survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

A recent study finds that choosing a lucky CEO means bad luck for the hiring company

A recent study by Mario Daniele Amore and Sebastian Schwenen found that firms that hire lucky CEOs experience declining results. Lucky CEOs possess greater bargaining power, leading to higher compensation and more attractive job assignments. However, this is associated with poorer company performance and slower growth.

SourceBocconi University·JournalThe Journal of Law Economics and Organization·DateJan 23, 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.

New tool uses ultrasound ‘tornado’ to break down blood clots

Researchers developed a new tool using vortex ultrasound to break down blood clots in the brain, which eliminated clots more quickly than existing techniques. The approach works by inducing shear stress on the blood clot, reducing risk of hemorrhage in the brain.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Children learn to read faster – given appropriate challenges

A new method offers hope for struggling readers, focusing on giving children the right challenges. The approach resulted in outstanding reading results, including improved well-being and motivation.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Thomas E. MacGillivray, MD, elected president of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

Thomas E. MacGillivray, MD, was elected President of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, emphasizing the importance of long-term outcomes and the value of surgery for patients compared to competing therapies. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. MacGillivray has published extensively on aortic diseases and adult congenital heart disease.

SourceThe Society of Thoracic Surgeons·DateJan 23, 2023

Access to health care in Canada a focus for CMAJ

The Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) is focusing on access to healthcare as a major concern. The organization recognizes the need for big ideas and radical changes to ensure Canadians' health needs are met and access is maintained for all.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 23, 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.

Sharks, spatial data, and a conservation success story

Research from Virginia Tech reveals that shark populations are recovering in northern Atlantic waters where regulations have been put in place. This is a promising conservation success story for vulnerable species.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2023

Researchers uncover novel amyloidosis

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology discovered a novel amyloid protein, α-S1 casein, which can cause disease in humans. The study found that overexpression and N-terminal truncation of α-S1-casein led to its formation as an amyloid protein.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalVeterinary Pathology·DateJan 23, 2023

Annals of Family Medicine - Holroyd

Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with primary care practitioners and patients to document experiences with digital surveillance of infectious diseases. The study identified five frequently-mentioned concerns, including ambiguity around informed consent and the potential for discrimination against certain groups.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 23, 2023

Primary care plays a role in helping patients with long COVID symptoms by providing holistic, trustworthy care

Researchers found that patients used various therapeutic strategies to alleviate symptoms, including mind-body medicine, nutritional supplements, exercise, and olfactory training. Many patients need more understanding, recognition, and specific post-COVID health care services, as well as empathy from their doctors.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 23, 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.

From ground to air to space: Tillage estimates get tech boost

University of Illinois scientists developed a way to accurately map tilled land in real-time using ground, airborne, and satellite imagery. The method increased mapping accuracy by 67% compared to upscaling directly from the ground to the satellite.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateJan 23, 2023

There’s something fishy about flake sold in South Australia

Researchers at the University of Adelaide analyzed DNA samples from over 100 retailers across South Australia and found four threatened shark species being sold as flake. The study highlights the need for clearer national guidelines or labelling laws to build trust across the supply chain.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalFood Control·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Academic and public health partnership creates data bridge to promote information sharing during COVID-19 pandemic

The authors created a data bridge between primary care and public health stakeholders in Alberta, Canada, to enhance the province's response to the pandemic. The data bridge enabled champions to emerge, trust to evolve, and integrative healthcare practices to take place, ultimately improving community-based responses.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 23, 2023

Environment law fails to protect threatened species

Research by University of Queensland finds that the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act is not effectively protecting threatened habitats. Projects deemed 'significant' or 'not significant' have resulted in similar habitat destruction, highlighting inconsistencies in referral decision-making processes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateJan 23, 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.

DNA sequencing method lifts ‘veil’ from genome black box

Researchers have developed a new DNA sequencing method, Chem-map, which can precisely map where drugs bind to the genome. The technique enables detection of small molecule-genome interactions and provides insights into how life-saving drugs work in cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 23, 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.

Using a seaweed sugar to trigger immune responses that suppress melanomas

Moffitt researchers found that administering oral L-fucose increases TILs, reduces tumor growth, and enhances immunotherapy efficacy in animal models. Higher L-fucose levels in melanomas are associated with less aggressive disease and better responses to therapy.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

New brain map reveals secrets of camouflage

Researchers from the University of Queensland created a detailed outline of the cuttlefish brain structure and neuronal network, shedding light on their camouflage abilities. The study reveals that the cuttlefish's brain adaptations reflect their daily life requirements and ecology.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Study comparing early interventions for sepsis shows patients have identical outcomes

The CLOVERS trial demonstrated that large volume fluid administration and vasopressor therapy led to nearly identical survival rates in patients with septic shock. The findings suggest that rapidly achieving normal blood pressure and systemic perfusion may be more important than the method used to achieve it.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 23, 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.

Solo exercise is good for older brains, but exercise with others is even better

A study published in Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics found that exercising alone twice or more weekly decreased the risk of developing cognitive impairment by 15.1%, while those who exercised with others showed a 29.2% decrease. Regular social exercise may be beneficial for preventing age-related cognitive disorders.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalArchives of Gerontology and Geriatrics·DateJan 23, 2023

Despite benefits, use of clinical decision support systems is curbed by workload challenges

French researchers found that human and organizational factors negatively impact clinical decision support system use, whereas technological factors have a neutral effect. Despite benefits, PCPs report decreased efficiency due to increased workload, highlighting the need for developers to address these issues.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateJan 23, 2023

Virus plus microplastics equal double whammy for fish health

A new laboratory study shows that microplastics increase the severity of an important viral fish disease. Nylon fibers had the greatest impact on disease severity. The findings have major implications beyond fish farming, affecting human health and natural environments.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 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.