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Science News for March 8, 2023


Olive oil by-product could aid exercise - study

Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that consuming a hydroxytyrosol-rich, olive-derived phytocomplex improved respiratory parameters, oxygen consumption, and running economy during aerobic exercise. The study also showed reduced perceived exertion and enhanced acute recovery.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalNutrients·DateMar 8, 2023

Incident atrial fibrillation appears to heighten dementia risk

People with recent atrial fibrillation diagnosis have a 13% higher risk of developing dementia. A stronger link is seen in younger patients and those without chronic kidney disease. The study's findings may lead to important clinical and public health implications.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeObservational study·DateMar 8, 2023

How mums are taking the lead in shaping children’s education – new study

A new global study found that mother's educational status is increasingly important in shaping children's educational status, while father's educational status has declined. The research challenges traditional assumptions on social mobility and highlights the need for a gender-sensitive approach to measuring intergenerational mobility.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 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.

UAB startup receives $2.5 million FastTrack Grant from the NIH

Alveolus Bio, a UAB startup, has received a $2.5 million FastTrack grant from the NIH to support the development of first-of-its-kind inhaled biotherapeutics for chronic lung disease COPD. The company aims to create FDA-approved treatments for 15.7 million people affected by COPD worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateMar 8, 2023

Study suggests little deterioration in mental health linked to the pandemic

A recent study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a relatively small impact on mental health, with general population symptoms showing little change. However, specific groups such as women and certain age groups experienced worsening of depression symptoms, while others showed improvement in mental health and anxiety symptoms.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 8, 2023

New study: abatacept therapy offers promising results treating juvenile dermatomyositis

A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology reports significant improvements in disease activity for patients with refractory juvenile dermatomyositis treated with abatacept therapy. The randomized controlled trial demonstrates the potential of abatacept as a treatment option for this rare and debilitating condition.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 8, 2023

Mediterranean diet the best prevention against prostate cancer

A Mediterranean diet rich in colourful fruits and vegetables helps prevent prostate cancer and speeds up recovery after radiation treatment. Foods such as tomatoes, melons, and nuts are particularly beneficial due to their high levels of lycopene and selenium.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalCancers·TypeCase study·DateMar 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.

Viable superconducting material created in University of Rochester lab

Researchers at the University of Rochester have created a nitrogen-doped lutetium hydride that exhibits superconductivity at 69 degrees Fahrenheit and 10 kilobars of pressure. This breakthrough material has the potential to enable practical applications, as it reduces the required pressure for superconductivity to occur.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Anthropogenic climate change poses systemic risk to coffee cultivation

A study published in PLOS Climate suggests that climate change is significantly affecting land where coffee is cultivated, particularly due to synchronous climate hazards occurring in multiple areas. The researchers found an increase in climate hazards and compound events threatening coffee crops globally between 1980 and 2020.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 8, 2023

Eyes in the sky: using drones to assess the severity of crop diseases

Researchers combined drones and machine learning to gauge bacterial blight outbreaks and screen for resistant genes in rice crops. The approach provided accurate predictions of disease severity and enabled the detection of previously unknown QTLs related to BB resistance.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalPlant Phenomics·DateMar 8, 2023

For educational attainment, it's more helpful to grow up in an affluent neighborhood than it is harmful to grow up in a poor one, per 23-year large Netherlands cohort study

A recent large-scale Netherlands cohort study found that growing up in an affluent neighborhood has a more significant positive impact on educational attainment than growing up in a poor one. Exposure to affluence was found to have a greater effect, surpassing the negative effects of poverty.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 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.

Neural puppeteer

Researchers from University of Konstanz develop 'neural puppeteer' AI model to predict animal poses and appearances, enabling analysis of intermediate motions. The system uses 3D key points to calculate statistically likely steps, crucial for studying collective behavior in wildlife.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalComputer Science·DateMar 8, 2023

Just add water: How diluting ouzo liquor could lead to better emulsions

Researchers used high-resolution microscopy to study the formation of ouzo droplets, finding a unique internal structure with concentrated anise extract at the edge and water/ethanol in the center. This discovery could help create highly stable emulsions in cosmetics and paints.

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

'Other' race/ethnicity linked to higher suicide and overdose risk in military members with mild TBI

A new study reveals that military members with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) who identify as 'Other' are at a significantly higher risk of suicide and overdose deaths. The study found that the rates of these deaths were highest among members of this group, despite making up only 7.38% of the study sample.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateMar 8, 2023

A better way to produce fertilizers

Researchers engineer crops and symbiotic bacteria to produce nitrogen fertilizer, reducing reliance on industrially produced fertilizers. The approach aims to create a symbiotic relationship between the bacteria and crop plants, promoting efficient nutrient exchange.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·DateMar 8, 2023

RNA: Don't kill the messenger

A protein complex formed of HuR and YB1 is crucial for messenger RNA stability during muscle-fiber formation. Further research could help scientists influence protein synthesis and develop novel therapeutics for muscle-related pathologies.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMar 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.

PSU study: Everything was stronger in that deadly June 2021 PNW heatwave

A record-breaking heatwave in the Pacific Northwest in June 2021 was attributed to a strong high-pressure ridge, which intensified when an atmospheric river moved into Alaska, releasing massive amounts of moisture. The air was exceptionally hot when brought down to the surface due to its temperature aloft.

SourcePortland State University·JournalMonthly Weather Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 8, 2023

Marine mammal reproduction rests on a precarious tipping point of ocean resources

A new study reveals a sharp threshold in the relationship between mass gain and pup production in female elephant seals, suggesting a physiological tipping point. The researchers found that dive depth was the strongest predictor of mass gain, with animals gaining more than 260 kilograms having almost guaranteed pup success.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 8, 2023

New pain medications are still widely inaccessible to individuals living with sickle cell disease

A new study found that less than 4% of people with sickle cell disease have prescriptions for newer FDA-approved pain-relieving drugs, despite their availability. The study also revealed significant gaps in prescription patterns by geographic region and age group, emphasizing the need for education and access to treatment options.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateMar 8, 2023

Hitting nuclei with light may create fluid primordial matter

Theoretical calculations accurately describe data from ATLAS experiment collisions of photons with lead nuclei, revealing a strongly interacting fluid that exhibits hydrodynamic behavior. This finding supports the creation of quark-gluon plasma in photon-heavy ion collisions.

SourceDOE/US Department of Energy·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 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.

Dementia the top COVID-19 risk factor for seniors in care

A University of Gothenburg study reveals that dementia is the dominant risk factor for COVID-19 infection and mortality among residents of Swedish nursing homes. Early-onset dementia was found to be the strongest association with increased mortality rates, particularly in the 65–75 age group.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 8, 2023

Mass General researchers discover the role of intestinal fibrosis in inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers at Mass General Hospital have found that intestinal fibrosis plays a critical role in the progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), affecting the growth and differentiation of intestinal stem cells. The study suggests targeting mechanosensing pathways may offer an attractive therapeutic strategy for IBD.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalGastroenterology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Study: Smoke particles from wildfires can erode the ozone layer

A new MIT study reveals that smoke particles from Australian wildfires can trigger chemical reactions that erode the protective ozone layer. The research found a 3-5% depletion of total ozone at mid-latitudes and widened the Antarctic ozone hole by 10% in 2020.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMar 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.

Group exercise program for older adults led to more independent exercise despite pandemic restrictions, MU study finds

A study by the University of Missouri found that older adults who completed an eight-week resistance training program maintained long-term exercise habits and increased their physical energy despite COVID-19 restrictions. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program improved participants' sleep, balance, flexibility, and self-confidence in da...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Sports Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 8, 2023

Researchers discover how too much oxygen damages cells and tissues

Scientists at Gladstone Institutes have discovered how excess oxygen changes proteins in our cells, triggering a cascade of events that damage cells and tissues. The findings have implications for conditions such as heart attacks and sleep apnea, revealing that hyperoxia is not solely caused by reactive oxygen species.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 8, 2023

University of Cincinnati study finds little federal funding for incarceration-related research

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that the US government allocates very little federal funding for research on incarceration from a public health standpoint. The lack of funding is attributed to structural racism, business interests, and a lack of awareness among healthcare professionals.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 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.

Paleontologists flip the script on anemone fossils

A team of paleontologists has discovered that countless sea anemone fossils were misinterpreted as jellyfish due to their soft bodies. However, when re-examined with a new perspective, the fossils were found to be anemones, showcasing the importance of fresh thinking in fossil interpretation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPapers in Palaeontology·DateMar 8, 2023

AI can help optimize CT scan X-ray radiation dose

Researchers developed AI models based on UNet and MobileNet architectures to analyze standardized abnormalities in CT images, accurately identifying object presence and confidence. These models achieved an absolute percentage error of less than 5 percent, comparable to human professionals.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateMar 8, 2023

Millions of galaxies emerge in new simulated images from NASA's Roman

Scientists have created a synthetic survey that showcases what can be expected from the Roman Space Telescope’s future observations. The simulation contains 33 million galaxies and 200,000 foreground stars, helping scientists plan observing strategies and test data analysis methods.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 8, 2023

Oxygen groups key to unlocking graphene’s antimicrobial potential

Researchers discover that graphene oxide's surface oxygen content is crucial for its antibacterial activity, with different interaction modes leading to distinct effects. Understanding this relationship can help design safer materials and combat antimicrobial resistance.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 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.

What ‘chornobyl dogs’ can tell us about survival in contaminated environments

Researchers studied genetic differences between two Chornobyl dog populations living near the nuclear power plant and 16.5 km away. They found significant genetic distinctions, with 391 outlier regions indicating potential genetic repair mechanisms. The study may provide insights into human adaptability to environmental disasters.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalCanine Medicine and Genetics·DateMar 8, 2023

Online program prompts vaccination among vaccine-hesitant mothers

A web-based program educating mothers about reliable health information and vaccine-preventable illnesses was effective in persuading vaccine-hesitant mothers to vaccinate themselves and their infants. The study found that 82% of hesitant pregnant women received flu and Tdap vaccines after participating in the online intervention.

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Nurse Practitioner·DateMar 8, 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.

New Insights by Mass General on the molecular mechanism of hydrocephalus could lead to the first-ever non-surgical treatment

Researchers at Mass General Hospital have discovered a novel molecular mechanism responsible for acquired hydrocephalus, which could lead to the development of a non-surgical treatment. The study found that an anti-inflammatory drug, rapamycin, can target the pathway that causes swelling of the brain ventricles in patients with hydroce...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateMar 8, 2023

Long-term exposure to nitrate in drinking water may be a risk factor for prostate cancer

A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that long-term exposure to nitrate in drinking water may increase the risk of prostate cancer, especially among younger men and those with aggressive tumors. Eating a diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can help mitigate this effect.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 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.

Digital rectal examination is not useful to early detect prostate cancers

A new study suggests that digital rectal examination (DRE) is not a reliable screening tool for early prostate cancer detection. Researchers found that DRE missed many cancers in their early stages, with only 3 out of 57 suspicious cases detected. This method was compared to PSA testing, which detected four times more prostate cancers.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 8, 2023

Cyborg technology analyzes the functional maturation of stem-cell derived heart tissue

Scientists have developed a new technique using tissue-embedded nanoelectronic devices to study the functional maturation of stem-cell derived heart tissues. The research found that co-culturing stem-cell-derived cardiomyocytes with endothelial cells enables faster and more efficient maturation, with significant implications for engine...

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 8, 2023

Two-pronged immunotherapy eliminates metastatic breast cancer in mice

Researchers identified a way to treat surrounding breast tumors that have spread to bone, making them vulnerable to the immune system's attack. Boosting T cells and macrophages eliminated metastatic breast tumors in mice, suggesting a new approach for treating bone-spreading breast cancers.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCancer Discovery·DateMar 8, 2023

Genes in beans! Bean genome sequenced for improved nutrition

The faba bean genome has been fully sequenced for the first time, providing a genetic toolkit for breeding lines with beneficial traits. This achievement aims to improve nutritional content and sustainability of production, with a focus on increasing UK-grown pulses and promoting plant-based diets.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 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.

AI-powered ultrasound imaging that detects breast cancer

A team of POSTECH researchers has developed a deep learning-based multimodal fusion network for segmentation and classification of breast cancers using B-mode and strain elastography ultrasound images. The method achieved high accuracy in distinguishing benign from malignant lesions, outperforming conventional methods.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBioengineering & Translational Medicine·DateMar 8, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

How a metabolite causes inflammation and disease

A new study has discovered a connection between a mitochondrial metabolite and the activation of an inflammatory response. Fumarate, produced in the mitochondrion, triggers mitochondrial damage that releases genetic material into small vesicles, leading to inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Places of worship linked with more neighborhood crime in Washington, D.C.

A new analysis shows that places of worship in Washington, D.C. are associated with higher rates of violent and property crime. The study controlled for sociodemographic factors and other crime-risk indicators, suggesting that high foot traffic at these sites may inadvertently fuel crime.

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

3D-printed scaffold could improve breast reconstruction results

A new 3D-printed scaffold made of a dissolvable polymer is shown to create nipples that maintain long-lasting projection, unlike previous reconstruction approaches. The device has the potential to improve breast reconstruction results and could be available for women undergoing mastectomy in the near future.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalPlastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open·DateMar 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.

Hospitals face challenges when implementing enhanced recovery programs for surgery

The study analyzed data from 151 hospitals that participated in an ISCR protocol for colorectal surgery to determine if they improved or worsened in complying with ERP process measures over an 18-month period. Key findings suggest a significant opportunity to improve compliance and patient outcomes, but inadequate resources and limited...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 8, 2023

Scientists uncover the unexpected identity of mezcal worms

Researchers have discovered that mezcal gusanos de maguey are actually the caterpillars of agave redworm moths (Comadia redtenbacheri), not a single type of insect larva. This finding has significant implications for the sustainability of agave production and the potential impact on wild populations of these caterpillars.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalPeerJ·DateMar 8, 2023

Colorectal cancer research

Researchers found that excessive iron absorption by tumor cells drives colorectal cancer growth, and a specific gene pathway is key. Inactivating this pathway can extend animal survival and potentially be used to treat cancer.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Men over 65 are at greater risk than women of skull fractures from falls

A recent study published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine found that men over 65 are at a higher risk of developing skull fractures due to head trauma from falls. The research compared geriatric males and females, with surprising results indicating males had a significantly increased incidence of skull fracture.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe American Journal of Emergency Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 8, 2023

Can children map read at the age of four?

A study involving 175 two to five-year-olds found that children start to develop spatial abilities from around four years old, using scale models to find objects in real-world scenarios. This new skill potentially lays the foundations for maths and science skills.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 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.

Study associates long COVID with physical inactivity

Researchers found that COVID-19 survivors with persistent symptoms were more likely to be sedentary, especially those experiencing breathlessness and fatigue. The study, supported by FAPESP, included 614 participants who were analyzed for physical activity and lifestyle habits.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 8, 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.

New kind of transistor could shrink communications devices on smartphones

A new type of ferroelectric semiconductor has been integrated into a reconfigurable transistor, enabling multifunctional devices to be combined on the same platform. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and lower-cost electronics, including reconfigurable radio frequency and microwave communication systems.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

First nasal monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19 shows promise for treating virus, other diseases

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital tested a new nasal monoclonal antibody treatment, Foralumab, which decreased inflammatory markers and lung inflammation in patients with COVID-19. The treatment also showed similar effects in multiple sclerosis patients, suggesting its potential use for treating other diseases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 8, 2023

Research shows success of working from home depends on company health

Research by University of Missouri expert Naresh Khatri shows that companies with effective HR and IT departments thrive when allowing employees to work from home. Employees can complete collaborative tasks with similar quality and quantity, regardless of location.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPersonnel Review·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 8, 2023

Highlight facts or appeal to feelings? The psychology of persuading individuals to contribute to a collective goal

Researchers find that fact-based appeals are more effective when the goal is near completion, while affect-based appeals match people's feelings-oriented psychological state and are better suited for shorter-term goals. The study advances understanding of persuasive messages in collective goals and provides key insights for marketers.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 8, 2023

MIND and Mediterranean diets associated with fewer Alzheimer's plaques and tangles

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that people who follow the MIND and Mediterranean diets have fewer amyloid plaques and tau tangles, signs of Alzheimer's disease. The study, which involved 581 participants, suggests that these diets may be beneficial for brain health and cognition as people age.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 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.

New Swansea University research shows reducing social media use by just 15 minutes a day can improve your health

A study from Swansea University found that reducing social media use by 15 minutes a day can significantly improve physical health and psychological well-being. The results showed a 15% improvement in immune function, 50% improvement in sleep quality, and 30% fewer depressive symptoms.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Technology in Behavioral Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

A pool at Yellowstone is a thumping thermometer

The study of Doublet Pool reveals that the interval between episodes of thumping reflects the amount of energy heating the pool, while also indicating heat loss through the surface. The researchers found that wind speed over the pools was correlated with silence intervals, suggesting that blowing wind removes heat energy from the water.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMar 8, 2023

How the Brain Senses Infection

A study published in Nature found that a small group of neurons in the airway play a pivotal role in alerting the brain about flu infections. The researchers also identified a second pathway from the lungs to the brain that becomes active later in the infection, which may hold promise for developing new treatments.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateMar 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.

Ultra-soft and highly stretchable hydrogel-based sensor for monitoring overactive bladder

Researchers developed a hydrogel-based sensor to monitor overactive bladder activity in real-time. The sensor measures both mechanical and bioelectrical activities, allowing for simultaneous monitoring and neural stimulation. This breakthrough has the potential to improve treatment outcomes and minimize side effects.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 8, 2023

Fungal spores hijack lung cells

Researchers have discovered that fungal spores can exploit the human protein p11 to hijack lung cells and prevent them from destroying the fungus. This finding offers a promising new target for treatment against Aspergillus fumigatus infections, which affect over 300,000 people worldwide each year.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

A breakthrough in big data processing helps trace chemicals in complex mixtures

A new generation of software, MZmine 3, enables scientists to analyze large volumes of data from mass spectrometry, tracing hundreds of thousands of chemical compounds. This breakthrough accelerates data processing and opens up opportunities for researchers to investigate disease causes and mechanisms.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 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.

Novel computer components inspired by brain cells

Researchers developed novel memristors with halide perovskite nanocrystals, enabling complex calculations similar to brain processes. The new memristors are faster, more energy-efficient, and easier to manufacture than predecessors.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 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.

Study shows racial inequities in newborn drug testing

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that racial inequities in newborn drug testing rates remained similar after recreational cannabis legalization in Michigan. The study analyzed data from over 26,000 births between 2014-2020 and found that Black newborns were more likely to receive a drug test than white newborns. Impl...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 8, 2023

SCENTinel 1.1, second iteration of Monell’s rapid smell test, discriminates between smell loss and smell distortions

The SCENTinel 1.1 test successfully discriminated between different types of smell disorders, including quantitative and qualitative olfactory dysfunction. It identified parosmia, a distorted perception of odors, with high accuracy and has the potential to be used as a rapid screening tool for olfactory dysfunction.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalChemical Senses·TypeSurvey·DateMar 8, 2023

Seeking leukemia’s Achilles heel

A team of researchers has discovered a potential therapeutic that can synergize with existing drugs to more effectively kill certain leukemia cells. The therapy targets a DNA repair protein and shows promise in clinical trials.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 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.

Long Covid is much less likely after omicron than after variant circulating at start of COVID-19 pandemic

A new study published at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases found that healthcare workers infected with the original SARS-CoV-2 virus were more likely to experience long Covid symptoms than those who had the omicron variant. The research suggests that omicron may be less likely to lead to long Covid, p...

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 8, 2023

Eiphosoma laphygmae likely to be best classical biological control against devastating fall armyworm pest

The parasitoid Eiphosoma laphygmae is likely to be the best classical biological control from the Americas against the devastating fall armyworm pest, according to a review by CABI scientist Dr. Marc Kenis. This natural enemy of the pest has been found to have high specificity and importance in most native ranges.

SourceCABI·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 8, 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.

Celebrity sightings have a built-in contradiction

A University of California, Riverside study found that people's memories for celebrity faces are sharper but less accurate than those for non-celebrity faces. This 'variance-bias tradeoff' suggests that humans prioritize precision over accuracy to accommodate the natural variability in face recognition.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Low dose radiation linked to increased lifetime risk of heart disease

An international team of researchers analyzed data from 93 studies on cardiovascular diseases and exposure to radiation, finding a modestly increased excess risk of heart disease with low dose radiation. The study suggests that mechanisms for these cardiovascular effects are poorly understood and that further research is needed.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 8, 2023

New approach to improving clinical trial enrollment and diversity

A new approach by the Medical University of South Carolina aims to increase clinical trial participation, especially from diverse populations. By making patients eligible for research opportunities by default, while allowing opt-out, the team saw a significant increase in potential participants.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Science·TypeObservational study·DateMar 8, 2023

A surprising way to trap a microparticle

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a surprising way to trap microparticles using the combined effects of electrostatics, hydrodynamics, and random Brownian motion. This phenomenon enables the capture of particles in complex environments, such as winding channels, and could revolutionize microfluidic applications and...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

The big o: what shapes a woman’s pursuit of pleasure?

A Rutgers-led study reveals that women who believe they have more time for an encounter are more likely to pursue orgasms, while those who think their partner prioritizes his own pleasure are less likely. Women use cues and adjust their pursuit of orgasm depending on the situation, with the goal of achieving orgasm being a key factor i...

SourceRutgers University·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateMar 8, 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.

Overweight in children in Sweden increased during the pandemic

A comprehensive study of 200,000 Swedish children found a significant increase in overweight and obesity rates between 2018 and 2020, with obesity rates rising by 30%. The greatest increase was seen in morbid obesity, highlighting the challenges faced by those who were already struggling before the pandemic.

SourceUppsala University·JournalActa Paediatrica·TypeObservational study·DateMar 8, 2023

Grey hair and wrinkles at an early age led researchers to new treatment for rare cancer

Researchers have identified a new method to predict which sarcoma patients will benefit from a potential new treatment. By inhibiting the plk1 gene, they were able to target and slow down the growth of sarcoma cells. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment options for sickest sarcoma patients in 5-10 years.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Death and Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Models predict nursing home residents’ risk of fall-related injuries

Researchers developed models to estimate individuals' risk of fall-related injuries in nursing homes, achieving good discrimination and excellent calibration. The models can be used by clinicians to target preventive strategies and accurately determine patient risk.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 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.

Researchers take a step towards turning interactions that normally ruin quantum information into a way of protecting it

Researchers developed a technique to predict how quantum systems behave when connected to their environment, turning a problem into a solution. The approach combines techniques from quantum many-body physics and non-Hermitian quantum physics, providing a crucial tool for real-world applications of quantum technology.

SourceAalto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2023

How nanoplastics can influence metabolism

Researchers at Leipzig University discovered that nanoplastics from PET particles accumulate in organs and cause liver function impairment, oxidative stress, and behavioral abnormalities in zebrafish embryos. The study provides insight into the toxicity pathways induced by PET nanoplastics.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

New details on how immune cells ‘see’ and respond to mutations in cancer cells may lead to more targeted and effective immunotherapy

A new study has identified the steps by which immune cells recognize and respond to cancer cell mutations, providing insights into why some treatments work for certain patients but not others. Researchers believe their findings will lead to better, more personalized immunotherapies for patients whose immune systems currently do not app...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 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.

Engineered bacteria find tumors, then alert the authorities

Researchers have created a bacterial 'suicide squad' that targets tumors and attracts immune cells to destroy them. The engineered E. coli bacteria release their contents when they reach a quorum inside a tumor, triggering an immune response.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Study finds oldest fossils of mysterious animal group are really seaweeds

A new study reveals that the earliest fossils of Bryozoans, a group of tentacle-bearing animals, are actually green algae from China. The discovery suggests that evolution continued over a longer period after the Cambrian explosion and challenges conventional theories about the origins of animal life.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature·DateMar 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.

Too little is known, and done, to tackle rising risks of plastic waste in our seas

The study highlights the complexity of microplastics as a pollutant, affecting sea animals' feeding behavior, reproductive outputs, and causing developmental anomalies. Researchers call for more research into plastic contamination and synthetic additives to understand and prevent further environmental health problems.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 8, 2023

A step forward in the quest to replace silicon with 2D chips

Scientists have identified a dozen new materials with high carrier mobility in 2D semiconductors, which could revolutionize electronic device capabilities. The discoveries were made using quantum-mechanical calculations and are an exception to the conventional wisdom that finding such materials is extremely challenging.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 8, 2023

Body mass index affects long-term outcomes of 'partial' knee arthroplasty

Higher body mass index patients undergoing unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) experience lower revision rates with cementless implants, according to a new study. Cementless fixation is preferred in higher-BMI patients, reducing the risk of revision surgery by up to 40%.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMar 8, 2023

Fresh understanding of ageing in the brain offers hope for treating neurological diseases

Researchers have found a possible new target for therapies aimed at treating age-related neurological diseases by linking increased presence of immune cells to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Microglia, specialized immune cells in the brain, can adopt a dysfunctional state that contributes to neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023

Genetic adaptations help Amazonian populations resist Chagas infection

Researchers have discovered a genetic variant that helps Amazonian populations resist Chagas infection, a parasite that affects approximately 6 million people in Latin America. The PPP3CA gene variant reduces the risk of infection by the Chagas pathogen and is expressed in heart tissue and immune cells.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2023