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Science News for March 24, 2023


Human Brain Project researchers develop new full-scale 3D structural model of the human hippocampus

Researchers have created a high-resolution, single-cell model of the human hippocampus CA1 area using data from the BigBrain Atlas. The model replicates the structure and architecture of the neurons, as well as their connectivity. This advancement in neuroscience has potential applications for modeling other brain regions.

SourceHuman Brain Project·JournalNature Computational Science·DateMar 24, 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.

AI “brain” created from core materials for OLED TVs

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have created a high-performance AI semiconductor device using IGZO, achieving over 98% accuracy in handwritten data classification. The new device's design enables efficient linear and symmetric programming, making it suitable for large-scale AI applications.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateMar 24, 2023

Blind people sense their heartbeats better than sighted

A study by Karolinska Institutet found that blind individuals have a heightened ability to sense signals from their inner body, with an average accuracy of 0.78 for counting heartbeats. This enhanced sensitivity may also impact emotional processing and perception.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·DateMar 24, 2023

Finding the sweet spot in sugar reductions

Researchers found that marketing diet or sugar-free versions does not increase overall turnover, but reducing package size leads to an increase in sales figures. Smaller packages also work better when marketed as a fun alternative.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalJournal of Marketing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

The “wishbone” charm that restores the hope for bone regeneration

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a polymeric nanoparticle gene delivery system that promotes bone formation after traumatic inflammation. The therapy inhibits excessive inflammation and prevents residual ridge resorption, leading to improved tissue healing after tooth extraction.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 24, 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.

Black Americans, low-income Americans may benefit most from stronger policies on air pollution

A new study found that stronger air pollution rules would lower premature death risks for all Americans, but particularly those from marginalized communities. Lowering PM2.5 levels to 8 μg/m3 could reduce mortality rates by 4% for White higher-income adults and up to 7% for Black higher-income and low-income adults.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2023

Narrowing the digital divide for health care

A new study highlights digital divide disparities in rural US communities, citing limited broadband and lower socioeconomic resources. Researchers stress the need for targeted policies to increase access to telemedicine and online health services.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 24, 2023

A readily available dietary supplement may reverse organ damage caused by HIV and antiretroviral therapy

A recent study found that the mitochondrial antioxidant MitoQ can reverse the detrimental effects of HIV and antiretroviral therapy on organs such as the brain, heart, and liver. The researchers used humanized mice infected with HIV and treated them with MitoQ for three months.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 24, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds higher risk of sleep problems in gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth

A new national study finds that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youth are twice as likely to report trouble falling or staying asleep than their straight peers. This is attributed to greater depression, stress, and family conflict among LGB youth, which can make it harder for them to get a good night's sleep.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalLGBT Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

Cryo-electron microscopy captures structure of a protein pump

Researchers at Tohoku University used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the high-resolution 3D structure of human SPCA1a, a protein pump involved in calcium and manganese ion transport. The study provided insights into how the protein works and how mutations can cause Hailey-Hailey disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 24, 2023

Get help with integrated weed management

A new digital tool, IWM Tool, has been developed to help farmers design and implement integrated weed management strategies, reducing pesticide use by 50% by 2030. The tool provides a user-friendly approach to diversify weed management strategies, fitting specific needs.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEuropean Journal of Agronomy·DateMar 24, 2023

A molecule that has been spreading emotions for millions of years

New research from Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia finds that zebrafish use oxytocin to recognize and mimic emotions, mirroring the behavior of humans and other mammals. The study suggests that this social behavior is evolutionarily conserved across species.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalScience·DateMar 24, 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.

With fewer salmon to eat, Southern Resident killer whales spend less time in the San Juan Islands

The Southern Resident killer whale population is spending far less time in the San Juan Islands as their primary food source, Chinook salmon, declines. This decline is likely an effort to find alternative food sources, and research shows a strong relationship between the whales' presence and salmon returns.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMarine Mammal Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

RNA vaccination in rabbit mothers confers benefits to offspring in the womb

Researchers report that RNA vaccination in pregnant rabbits confers benefits to offspring, triggering robust antibody responses that are likely passively transferred. The study supports further development of the LION TM/repRNA vaccine platform for protecting against mother-to-child transmission of pathogens.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2023

Acquisitions can nix existing partnerships

A new study found that acquisitions in the biopharmaceutical industry can disrupt trust and knowledge exchange routines between companies, leading to a higher risk of alliance termination. The odds of termination for exposed alliances are 11% greater than for unexposed ones.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2023

Graphene grows – and we can see it

Researchers have created a micrometre-size model of atomic graphene to study defects, which are crucial for the material's properties. The model reveals that common defects form in early stages of growth and lead to stable defect configurations.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 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.

Antibiotics do not reduce risk of dying in adults hospitalised with common respiratory infections, suggests study

A new study published at ECCMID 2023 found that antibiotics do not reduce the risk of dying in adults hospitalised with common viral respiratory infections like influenza. The research suggests a restrictive antibiotic strategy for these types of infections may be warranted to reduce unnecessary prescribing and combat antimicrobial res...

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 24, 2023

Artificial Intelligence: Tango guides the revolution

The TANGO project seeks to establish a symbiotic relationship between humans and machines, enabling effective and innovative AI systems that expand human reasoning and decision-making capabilities. Real-world use cases will be evaluated to assess the framework's potential impact on individuals and society.

SourceUniversità di Trento·DateMar 24, 2023

State incentive program improves initiation of medication treatment for opioid use disorder after emergency visit

A statewide incentive program in Pennsylvania is associated with a 50% improvement in initiating medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder among Medicaid-enrolled patients. The study found that the program increased prescription fills for buprenorphine and substance use disorder treatment within a week of emergency departme...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMar 24, 2023

Important step towards accurate use of stem cell-based disease models

Scientists at the University of Helsinki have discovered that genetic mutations can significantly impact the accuracy of stem cell-based disease models. The researchers found that somatic mutations in genes like BCOR can affect the differentiation process and gene expression, leading to variations in the model's reliability.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCell Genomics·DateMar 24, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Time of day matters when it comes to cancer diagnosis and treatment

The circadian rhythm governs most cellular functions implicated in cancer progression, making it an opportunity to intervene in the most timely and effective way. Leveraging this information, chronotherapy holds promise as a valuable alternative treatment option.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cell Biology·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 24, 2023

Dieting: brain amplifies signal of hunger synapses

Researchers found that dieting amplifies neural signals of hunger in the brain, leading to increased food intake and weight gain. This long-term change could be a key target for developing therapies to prevent the yo-yo effect.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2023

New study supports saving more lung tissue in lung cancer surgeries

Researchers found that select patients with early-stage disease who undergo a less invasive procedure have comparable outcomes to traditional lobectomy. The study adds evidence supporting the preservation of functional lung tissue in cancer patients whenever possible.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 24, 2023

‘Smart’ bandages monitor wounds and provide targeted treatment

Researchers developed smart bandages that can monitor wound conditions and deliver medication to treat inflammation and infection. The bandages have shown promising results in animal models, offering real-time updates and speed healing of chronic infected wounds.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 24, 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.

Wilson’s disease: Bacterial agent opens new therapeutic options

A bacterial molecule, ARBM101, has been found to efficiently lower liver copper levels in a rat model, offering a promising new therapeutic option for Wilson's disease. The treatment approach involves weekly applications followed by month-long breaks, significantly shortening the therapy period.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalGastroenterology·DateMar 24, 2023

Food insecurity and cognitive trajectories in older adults

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that food insecurity is associated with a decline in executive function among older adults. The research used data from 3,037 community-dwelling Medicare beneficiaries and suggests that interventions to increase healthy food access may be crucial in mitigating cognitive decline.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 24, 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.

KERI-KIT develop an optimal SiS2 production technology to boost ASSB performance

A team from KERI-KIT developed a process technology for optimal silicon disulfide (SiS2) production, addressing challenges in processing and material cost. The new technology improves ionic conductivity and moisture stability, making solid-state electrolytes more efficient.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 24, 2023

Where there’s smoke, there’s thiocyanate: McMaster researchers find tobacco users in Canada are exposed to higher levels of cyanide than other regions

A large-scale population health study found that tobacco users in Canada have higher levels of thiocyanate, a biomarker of cyanide exposure. This may be due to the type of cigarettes smoked in high-income countries, which are engineered to be less harmful but still pose significant health risks.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2023

Marriage, children, sex-based differences in physician hours and income

A recent study of 95,000 U.S. physicians found that female physicians work significantly fewer hours than their male counterparts, resulting in a substantial earnings penalty. This disparity is attributed to societal and institutional barriers that discourage women from working long hours.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateMar 24, 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.

Buprenorphine after nonfatal opioid overdose results in reduced risk of overdose death

Receiving buprenorphine after a nonfatal opioid overdose significantly lowers the risk of subsequent overdose death. The medication was associated with a 62% reduction in risk, highlighting the need for lifesaving treatment following these events. Current evidence shows low uptake of buprenorphine and other medication-assisted treatments.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

If you build it, they will come

A new study published in Ecosphere finds that newly created tidal marshes in Barataria Bay rapidly become indistinguishable from natural marshes, supporting the state's plans to rebuild its coastline. The research reveals similar biodiversity in both created and natural marshes.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalEcosphere·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2023

How one state beat national surgery opioid trends

A statewide effort in Michigan resulted in a 56% reduction in opioid prescriptions after six common operations and a 26% drop in persistent opioid use. The achievement surpassed national trends, driven by voluntary prescribing guidelines and surgical team involvement.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

Novel regulatory mechanism of blood clotting discovered

A new study has deciphered a central regulatory mechanism of fibrin formation, proposing therapeutic approaches. Glycoprotein V controls thrombin activity and limits fibrin formation.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 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.

Objective assessment of sleep and fatigue risk in emergency medicine physicians

A new study assesses sleep and fatigue risk in emergency physicians over two months using a wearable device, revealing that 50% of their shifts are spent in a high cognitive readiness state. The researchers also found that later shift start times are associated with greater fatigue due to circadian rhythm disruption.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateMar 24, 2023

Corporate investment could improve climate-tech innovation

A new report highlights the critical role of corporate investment in advancing climate technology. Corporate investors can accelerate innovation, access global markets, and meet ESG commitments. However, a significant gap remains for governments to incentivize investment in climate-tech that aligns with long-term goals.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJoule·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

Heated tobacco products make SARS‑CoV‑2 infection and severe COVID‑19 more likely

A study by Osaka Metropolitan University found that users of heated tobacco products had a higher rate of COVID-19 infections and severe cases requiring hospitalization or oxygen. Researchers analyzed data from 30,130 participants and discovered a significant association between heated tobacco product use and increased risk of SARS-CoV...

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2023

Synergistic iron carbide catalysts enable direct conversion of syngas into higher alcohols

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics have developed a new method to synthesize higher alcohols from syngas using synergistic iron carbide catalysts. The catalysts achieve a high oxygenate selectivity and produce a significant amount of higher alcohols, making this process a promising alternative for sustainable production.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChem Catalysis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 24, 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.

More predictable renewable energy could lower costs

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have found that more predictable solar or wind energy generation can save millions of dollars in operating costs and prevent clean energy spillage. By analyzing six existing solar farms, they discovered that optimal locations changed when predictability was considered, leading to significant in...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPatterns·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

Increasing education opportunities for girls could help reduce preventable deaths in children under five

A recent study by IIASA researchers found that maternal education, especially secondary education, significantly reduces under-five mortality rates in both rural and urban areas of India. The study analyzed data from the Indian National Family Health Survey and discovered a protective effect of maternal education on child mortality.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalHealth & Place·DateMar 24, 2023

Substance use disorders do not increase the likelihood of COVID-19 deaths

A retrospective cohort study of hospitalized patients with and without substance use disorders during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic found no association between SUD and inpatient COVID-19-related mortality. Patients with and without SUD had similar clinical complications, including mechanical ventilation and ICU admission.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalSubstance Abuse·DateMar 24, 2023

Use age, not weight, to screen for diabetes

A new study suggests that age, not weight, should be used to screen for diabetes, capturing the greatest number of people in all racial and ethnic groups. The approach identifies the greatest proportion of adults with prediabetes and diabetes and maximizes equity across racial and ethnic groups.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 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.

11 ways to improve airlines for customers

Research using artificial intelligence analyzed nearly 400,000 customer reviews to identify key themes and customer sentiment towards airlines. The study found that customers commonly complained about lost luggage, uncomfortable seating and flight cancellations, but praised in-flight entertainment, ground staff and business-class servi...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAnnals of Operations Research·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 24, 2023

PSMA PET improves decision making for prostate cancer treatment

Current radiotherapy contouring guidelines often miss lesions in the prostate bed, leading to unnecessary tissue irradiation. PSMA PET mapping reveals that nearly a third of patients experience disease progression within 10 years after radical prostatectomy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 24, 2023

Tool developed to identify girls at risk of nutritional deficiency

A new tool has been developed to identify adolescent girls in developing countries who are at risk of nutritional deficiency, with a focus on Bangladesh. The tool uses a simple metric and can be applied online, avoiding the need for costly finger prick blood sampling.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMar 24, 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.

Wastewater to energy: new treatment process can improve biorefinery sustainability

Researchers at CABBI designed a new wastewater treatment process that simultaneously treats water and recovers biogas, reducing capital costs and energy usage. The process efficiently converts organic contaminants to biogas, achieving simultaneous energy recovery and wastewater treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMar 24, 2023

Photosynthesis: varying roads lead to the reaction center

A team of scientists has characterized chlorophylls in photosystem I using quantum chemical calculations, revealing key elements of its super-efficient energy transfer. The study identifies 'red chlorophylls' that absorb lower energies and overcome energy barriers, enabling the system to constantly open new pathways.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 24, 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.

Designing antennas for 6G V2X (Vehicle to Everything) communication

The Indian Institute of Science researchers developed a full-duplex antenna system that cancels out self-interference, enabling faster and more efficient data transfer. The compact design eliminates the need for bulky components, making it suitable for integration into devices.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Circuits & Systems II Express Briefs·DateMar 24, 2023