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Science News Archive July 2023 - Page 26


Page 26 of 36

3D-printed facet-attached microlenses (FaML) could overcome photonic packaging challenges

Researchers have demonstrated a new approach to photonic packaging using 3D-printed FaMLs, which can be printed with high accuracy to connect optical components. This method relaxes alignment tolerances and enables passive assembly techniques, opening an attractive path towards scalable and flexible photonic system assembly.

The ground is deforming, and buildings aren’t ready

A Northwestern University study links underground climate change to shifting ground beneath urban areas, causing building foundations and surrounding ground to move excessively and crack. The researchers also found that past building damage may have been caused by rising temperatures, which will continue for years to come.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCommunications Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 11, 2023

A neurobehavioral signature of risk for mania

Researchers identified three neurobehavioral profiles that distinguish individuals with elevated mania vulnerability based on reward sensitivity and sleep-circadian characteristics. These profiles can help detect mania risk and provide targets for early interventions.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateJul 11, 2023

Can using biodegradable fishing gear help reduce the cost of ghost fishing?

Researchers from the University of Portsmouth found that biodegradable fishing gear (BFG) does not significantly reduce the cost of ghost fishing due to decreased fishing efficiency. The study suggests that implementing BFG could still have economic benefits, but only if it can achieve similar fishing efficiency as traditional gear.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2023

Exploring dark matter and the first bright galaxies simultaneously: 21-cm forest probe may unlock secrets of early universe

A joint research team from Northeastern University and the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has proposed a novel 21-cm forest probe to shed light on dark matter and the early formation of galaxies simultaneously. By measuring the one-dimensional power spectrum of the 21-cm forest, scientists can di...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJul 11, 2023

Damage to gut bacteria linked with chemo-induced weight gain in breast cancer patients

Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a correlation between chemotherapy-induced changes to gut bacteria and unhealthy weight gain in breast cancer patients. The study found that these patients gained abdominal fat and experienced inflammation, with significant changes to their gut microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 11, 2023

The moral foundations of hate speech

Researchers used Moral Foundations Theory to analyze hateful language in Nazi propaganda, social media posts, and large text corpora. They found that hate speech often appeals to idealized values such as purity and loyalty.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 11, 2023

Copper could help create clearer MRI images and improved diagnosis - study

Researchers have discovered a novel copper protein binding site that shows promise for use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents, potentially leading to clearer images and improved diagnoses. The new structure displayed highly effective levels of relaxivity, equal and superior to existing Gd(III) agents used in clinical MRI.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

New study debunks claims of a psychedelic cannabinoid

A University at Buffalo-led study found that THC-O-acetate produces moderate relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief, but no psychedelic effects similar to LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. The study suggests that people may overreport their experiences due to social media hype and online claims.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Psychoactive Drugs·TypeSurvey·DateJul 11, 2023

Optical phased array to be optimized pointwise

The proposed pointwise optimization approach combines global search and accurate calibration to improve the OPA's performance in beam steering, focusing, and energy efficiency. It achieves rapid and precise phase calibration with a 53.5% increase in convergence rate and a 9.7% decrease in time consumption compared to traditional algori...

Efficient X-ray luminescence imaging with ultrastable and eco-friendly copper(I)-iodide cluster microcubes

Researchers introduce a novel class of X-ray scintillators based on monodisperse copper-iodine clusters, demonstrating remarkable sensitivity and stability. The copper-iodide cluster-based microcubes exhibit excellent scintillation performance and exceptional water resistance, making them suitable for large-area flexible X-ray detectors.

Widespread illegal trade of hazardous chemicals

A new study reveals that nearly half of traded hazardous chemicals are imported without consent, posing a significant threat to human health and the environment. The report highlights the need for strengthened national and international action to address global trade of highly hazardous chemicals.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2023

Preying on hungry, anxious worms

In a new study, Salk Institute scientists discovered that dopamine regulates anxious worm behavior in the presence of nipping predators. The findings illuminate how this dopamine-regulated brain pathway may be related to anxiety and could provide insight into human conditions like PTSD.

SourceSalk Institute·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Decoding the impact flash

High-velocity impacts create brief, intense bursts of light known as impact flashes, containing information about the target and impactor. The shape and color of these flashes reveal details about the fragmentation process and ejecta cone formation.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJul 11, 2023

Increasing provincial college quota encourages academic high school enrollment

Empirical evidence suggests that opportunity for higher education is the primary determinant in choosing between vocational and academic high schools. Increasing provincial college quota encourages academic high school enrollment, particularly due to the impact of prestigious universities' admission opportunities.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalChina Economic Quarterly International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 11, 2023

Maternal dengue fever – “compelling evidence” that even mild infections impact birth outcomes

Research from the University of Surrey and University of Birmingham finds detrimental effects of all severities of maternal dengue infections on birth outcomes, including increases in low, very low, and extremely low birth weights. Long-term consequences also include hospitalizations for children up to three years after birth.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalApplied Economics·TypeObservational study·DateJul 11, 2023

Immune memory is achieved by epigenetic and topological rearrangements of DNA in immune cells

Scientists discovered epigenetic signatures in immune cells that allow for rapid activation of key genes, enabling quick recall of antigens. This rearrangement is accompanied by changes in the 3D distribution of DNA in the nucleus, which affects gene expression and could lead to new therapies for autoimmune diseases.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023

Laser-scribed graphene for sensors

Graphene materials have excellent electrical conductivity and physical, optical, thermal, and structural properties, making them suitable for sensor applications. Laser-scribed graphene (LSG) has been developed as a promising method for fabricating high-quality graphene with low energy consumption and environmental friendliness.

New guidance: Bridging the gap between what we know and what we do

Medical organizations publish approaches for implementing infection prevention strategies that consider facility conditions, team communications, and leadership support. The guidance aims to bridge the 'knowing-doing' gap by providing practical tools and resources for successful implementation.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeLiterature review·DateJul 11, 2023

Reinventing cosmology: uOttawa research puts age of universe at 26.7 — not 13.7 — billion years

A new study by uOttawa researchers proposes a revised cosmological model that stretches galaxy formation time, making the universe 26.7 billion years old. This finding addresses the 'impossible early galaxy problem' and provides a more feasible explanation for the advanced level of development observed in ancient galaxies.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 11, 2023

Will you take ruthenium with your tea or coffee?

The study by Lionel Delaude and François Mazars has shown that combining a para-cymene ligand with an N-heterocyclic carbene ligand derived from caffeine or theophylline produces highly effective catalysts. These eco-friendly catalysts reduce the carbon footprint of chemical processes, making them more sustainable.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalOrganometallics·DateJul 11, 2023