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Science News Archive March 2023 - Page 15


Page 15 of 44

Social media usage is associated with body image concerns, poor mental health and disordered eating, according to evidence from 50 studies across 17 countries

A scoping review of 50 studies across 17 countries found a strong association between social media usage and body image concerns, poor mental health, and disordered eating. The study suggests that excessive social media use can have negative effects on young people's self-esteem and overall well-being.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateMar 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Does care during pregnancy differ based on patient race in the United States?

A US analysis of perinatal care found that discretionary care varied by patient race, with Non-Hispanic Black women being 20% less likely to receive a prenatal depression screen and 60% more likely to have a urine drug test when denying drug use. Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Asian women were also less likely to receive similar tests.

SourceWiley·JournalBirth·DateMar 22, 2023

Like flipping the switch

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a programmable gate driver for solid-state electronic transistor switches, reducing switching loss under changing input current and temperature fluctuations. The device includes automatic timing control, allowing for single-chip integration and real-time control.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·DateMar 22, 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.

A brain-inspired computer model that understands speech like humans

Researchers developed a computer model based on human brain mechanisms to improve speech comprehension. The model extracts multilevel information from ongoing speech and uses non-linguistic knowledge for disambiguating word meanings. This approach is more human-like than existing language models like ChatGPT.

SourceNCCR Evolving Language (National Centre of Competence in Research)·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023

Sweets change our brain

Researchers found that eating small amounts of high-fat and sugar foods regularly rewires the brain to prefer these types of foods. The brain's dopaminergic system is activated, leading to a subconscious preference for rewarding food.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Fake and extremely biased Twitter content decreased between 2016-2020, but top influencers were more polarized

Research by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found a decrease in fake and extremely biased Twitter content between 2016-2020, but top influencers became more polarized, creating an echo chamber effect. The study analyzed vast amounts of Twitter data to examine the social media platform's influence on U.S. politics.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 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.

Frequent COVID testing of nursing home staff protected residents, saved lives

A new study found that frequent COVID surveillance testing protected nursing home residents by detecting infected staff earlier, disrupting transmission chains. The research showed that high testing frequency facilities had clinically meaningful reductions in resident cases and deaths, particularly before vaccine availability.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 22, 2023

Hidden 'super spreaders' spur dengue fever transmission

A new study by Emory University researchers found that asymptomatic individuals account for a significant proportion (74%) of dengue infections in an Amazonian city. The 'super spreader' spaces, where infected people frequent, are crucial in predicting and controlling outbreaks.

SourceEmory University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

A review by Community Care Behavioral Health Organization of UPMC in Psychiatric Services journal confirms Pennsylvania's Medicaid program offers a national model for behavioral-physical health integration

A county-based approach in Pennsylvania's Medicaid program integrates behavioral health and physical health services, resulting in improved access to care and better outcomes. This model has been recognized as a national best practice, with the state ranking among the top three for addressing mental health challenges.

SourceUPMC Health Plan·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 22, 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.

NASA’s Webb spots swirling, gritty clouds on remote planet

Researchers have pinpointed silicate cloud features and detected water, methane, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere of VHS 1256 b. The team's findings provide the largest number of molecules identified all at once on a planet outside our solar system.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 22, 2023

Survey finds patients value immediate access to test results

A survey of over 43,000 patient portal users found that 96% prefer immediate online access to clinical test results. Most respondents reported seeking additional information after reviewing their test results and valued the convenience of receiving results through a patient portal.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 22, 2023

Dedicated protocol of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more effective than the drug treatment available today for fibromyalgia caused by head injury

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that dedicated hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more effective in reducing pain and healing patients with fibromyalgia caused by traumatic brain injury. The treatment resulted in significant improvements in 2 out of 5 patients, including improved pain threshold tests and quality of life indicators.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 22, 2023

Road noise makes your blood pressure rise – literally

A new study published in JACC: Advances confirms that exposure to road traffic noise can elevate hypertension risk. The research analyzed data from over 240,000 people and found a robust association between road traffic noise and hypertension, even after adjusting for air pollution.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJACC Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 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.

Known active ingredient as new drug candidate against “monkeypox”

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have identified nitroxoline as a potential treatment alternative for mpox. The antibiotic demonstrates effectiveness against both the current mpox virus and a tecovirimat-resistant strain, offering a promising solution to combat the outbreak.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Global warming undermines greenhouse gas sink function of pristine wetlands

A new study published in Nature Climate Change reveals that pristine wetlands are currently a greenhouse gas sink, but this function will be reduced by over half in response to a 1.5-2°C temperature increase. Warming promotes net methane and nitrous oxide emissions from these ecosystems, posing a positive feedback on global warming.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 22, 2023

IU researchers discover a common bacterial infection can be sexually transmitted

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine discovered that bacteria causing vaginal infections can also be present in men and transmitted through heterosexual sex. The study found that only men who reported having vaginal sex carried the bacteria, with detectable presence for at least two months after intercourse.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateMar 22, 2023

How fisheries threaten seals and sea lions in South America

Two species, South American sea lion and fur seal, are primarily involved in interactions with fisheries and aquaculture activities. The economic losses to fisheries related to sea lion depredation are low, while incidental capture and mortality of seals remain unknown.

SourceWiley·JournalMammal Review·DateMar 22, 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.

Copper artifacts unearth new cultural connections in southern Africa

Researchers found previously unknown interactions among people in southern Africa between the 5th and 20th centuries, revealing a complex network of cultural exchange. The study used geochemical analyses on copper objects to reconstruct connectivity across the region, providing new insights into the history of the area.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 22, 2023

AJR national survey measures causes of, counters to moral distress in radiology

A national survey of radiologists reveals moral distress is widespread, often stemming from high case volumes and lack of administrative support. The study highlights the need for education of leadership regarding causes of distress among frontline workers to address this issue.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

OSU researchers create artificial enzyme for fast detection of disease-related hormone in sweat

Researchers at Oregon State University have created a portable sensor that can detect cortisol hormone levels in sweat, providing a fast and reliable diagnostic tool for various diseases. The device uses an artificial enzyme to capture cortisol molecules, producing electrical signals that indicate the hormone's presence.

SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

New NIH study reveals shared genetic markers underlying substance use disorders

A new NIH study has identified common genetic markers underlying various substance use disorders, suggesting a link to dopamine signaling regulation. The findings may lead to more effective treatments and prevention strategies for multiple substance use disorders, including those with co-occurring mental health conditions.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalNature Mental Health·DateMar 22, 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.

At least 80% of the world’s most important sites for biodiversity on land currently contain human developments, study finds

A study by researchers from BirdLife International, WWF, and the University of Cambridge found that 80% of key biodiversity areas (KBAs) on land contain infrastructure, which is a significant driver of threats to biodiversity. The prevalence of infrastructure in KBAs is likely to increase due to planned developments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 22, 2023

Nine in 10 women enter pregnancy with at least one indicator that risks baby’s health

A recent study published in BJOG found that nearly all women in England (97.5%) have at least one indicator of potential health risks during pregnancy, emphasizing the need for improved preconception care and policies to support women's overall well-being before pregnancy. The research highlights health disparities across different age...

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalObstetrics & Gynecology An International Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

New microchip links two Nobel Prize-winning techniques

Physicists at Delft University of Technology have developed a new technology on a microchip combining optical trapping and frequency combs to measure distances with high precision in opaque materials. The technology uses sound vibrations instead of light, offering a simple and low-power solution for applications such as monitoring the ...

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateMar 22, 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.

Tackling counterfeit seeds with “unclonable” labels

A team of MIT researchers has created an 'unclonable' label system to combat counterfeit seeds in Africa, where fake seeds can cost farmers up to two-thirds of expected crop yields. The system uses biodegradable silk-based tags with unique codes that cannot be replicated.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 22, 2023

New mosquito species reported in Florida

A new mosquito species, Culex lactator, has been found in Florida, with thriving populations reported in three counties. Scientists are concerned about the potential for this species to transmit diseases, particularly given the lack of research on its disease risk.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateMar 22, 2023

Is bone health linked to brain health?

A study published in Neurology found an association between low bone density and an increased risk of developing dementia. Researchers analyzed data from 3,651 participants and found that those with the lowest total body bone density were 42% more likely to develop dementia than those with the highest bone density over a 10-year period.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 22, 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.

New method shrinks 3D images of cells for faster storage and retrieval

Researchers have developed a new method to encode single-cell tomograms using 3D Zernike polynomials, resulting in a data compression ratio of 22.9 and saving over 95% of space. The strategy is efficient on various experimental data types and can be applied to lab-on-a-chip systems.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateMar 22, 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.

Research shows link between child emotional difficulties and family strain during coronavirus lockdowns

A new study found that coronavirus lockdowns led to increased emotional and behavioral difficulties in children, particularly those with families experiencing co-habitation issues. Caregivers in Turkey reported higher levels of worry about COVID-19 infection, yet showed lower family co-existence difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPsychological Reports·TypeSurvey·DateMar 22, 2023

Cover crops help mitigate farmer losses

A North Carolina State University study found that cover crop adoption can reduce crop insurance losses due to prevented planting in the US Midwest. Longer term use of cover crops also leads to larger reductions in prevented-planting risk, with a 1% increase translating to nearly $40 million in reduced indemnities.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 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.

Semiconductor lattice marries electrons and magnetic moments

Researchers stack ultrathin monolayers of semiconductors to create a moiré lattice that traps individual electrons in tiny slots. This configuration allows for continuous tuning of electron mass and density, leading to the observation of heavy electrons and potential emergence of a 'strange' metal phase.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMar 22, 2023

Bilayer PET/PVDF substrate-reinforced solid polymer electrolyte improves solid-state lithium metal battery performance

A bilayer, nonwoven PET microfiber/polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber membrane acts as a separator for LIB systems and prevents short circuits. The substrate significantly improves the mechanical and thermal properties of solid polymer electrolytes, enabling cells to operate over 2000 hours.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

New UBC water treatment zaps ‘forever chemicals’ for good

Engineers at UBC developed a new water treatment that captures up to 99% of PFAS particles, eliminating them from drinking water. The technology is particularly beneficial for rural communities with limited resources, offering a decentralized and in-home solution.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Memory B cell marker predicts long-lived antibody response to flu vaccine

A new subset of memory B cells, marked by the FcRL5 receptor protein, has been identified as a predictor of long-lived antibody responses to influenza vaccination. These effector memory B cells can be detected seven days after immunization and correlate with vaccine antibody responses months later.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 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.

Hunting Venus 2.0: Scientists sharpen their sights

The study identifies five exoplanets that resemble Venus in terms of radii, masses, and atmospheric conditions. By observing these 'exo-Venus' planets using the James Webb Space Telescope, scientists hope to uncover valuable insights into Earth's future and the possibility of a runaway greenhouse climate.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateMar 22, 2023

How vision begins

The study found that a microscopic change in a protein in the retina occurs within a fraction of a trillionth of a second, triggering the perception of light. This process involves the transformation of a molecule called retinal from its 11-cis form to its all-trans form, which takes just one picosecond.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Smaller, denser, better illuminators for computational microscopy

A team of researchers at the University of Connecticut created freeform illuminators that enable flexible illumination design and calibration using a blood-coated sensor. The newly developed technology simplifies microscopy experiments by reducing size, increasing density, and adjusting angle of illumination.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Fujitsu and Osaka University develop new quantum computing architecture, accelerating progress toward practical application of quantum computers

The new architecture reduces physical qubits required for error correction to 10% of conventional architectures, enabling better performance than classical computers. This breakthrough accelerates progress toward practical quantum computing, with the aim of applying quantum computing applications to various societal issues.

SourceOsaka University·DateMar 22, 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.

Biophysics: Droplets in motion

Enzymatic droplets in cells exhibit directed self-propulsion and positioning, driven by influx of energy. The findings suggest a novel mechanism for controlling cell division, distinct from thermal equilibrium dynamics.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalPhysical Review·DateMar 22, 2023