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Science News Archive March 2023 - Page 2


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New hope for patients after vedolizumab found effective to treat chronic pouchitis

A new study by Oxford researchers has found vedolizumab to be effective in inducing remission in patients with chronic pouchitis after surgery for ulcerative colitis. The treatment improved remission rates and quality of life, making it a game-changer for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 31, 2023

Metformin & leucine prevent cellular senescence & proteostasis disruption

Researchers found that metformin + leucine (MET+LEU) treatment prevents myotube atrophy by reversing cellular senescence and improving proteostasis. The study used C2C12 myoblasts, aged mouse single myofibers, and human primary myotubes to demonstrate MET+LEU's skeletal muscle cell-autonomous properties.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

Why are forests turning brown in summer?

Researchers found that exceptional weather conditions over several years are turning European forests brown. Characteristic weather patterns, such as prolonged dry periods and high temperatures, precede these events, with a legacy effect contributing to future low-forest greenness.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalBiogeosciences·DateMar 31, 2023

Helping mums in poorer countries give their babies better brains

A low-cost, high-effective program provides community-based groups to teach women and partners about nutrition, caregiving, and health from pregnancy to age one. The study found significant improvements in brain development, cognitive skills, and language abilities at age two compared to usual healthcare.

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Novel supercapacitor for energy storage applications

Researchers at IISc have developed a novel ultramicro supercapacitor with enhanced electrochemical capacitance, exceeding 3000% increase in capacitance under certain conditions. The device uses Field Effect Transistors as charge collectors and solid gel electrolyte for improved electron mobility.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateMar 31, 2023

Researchers uncover the first steps driving antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered crucial steps that promote ciprofloxacin resistance in bacteria, pointing to potential strategies to extend antibiotics' effectiveness. The study found that RNA polymerase plays a major role in regulating DNA repair and identified a key molecule involved in modulating this response.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2023

A paper-based sensor to detect pesticides in food quickly and cheaply

Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a kraft paper-based electrochemical sensor that can detect traces of pesticides in fruit and vegetables in real time. The device resembles a glucometer and has been shown to be highly sensitive, fast, and inexpensive.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFood Chemistry·DateMar 30, 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.

How plants cope with the cold light of day - and why it matters for future crops

Researchers discovered a plant biological clock-regulated mechanism that helps plants tolerate cold temperatures and damage from bright light. The mechanism, controlled by the SIG5 gene, signals proteins in chloroplasts to protect against environmental stress, potentially improving crop resilience for colder climates.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

Fluid flow in the brain can be manipulated by sensory stimulation

A new study by Boston University researchers reveals that visual stimulation can induce large-scale changes in cerebrospinal fluid flow during wakefulness. The findings have implications for treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease, which are associated with declines in fluid flow.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

Development of an artificial kidney for early detection of drug toxicity

A research team from Pohang University of Science & Technology has engineered an artificial kidney to detect adverse drug reactions and provide personalized treatment. The team successfully fabricated a glomerular microvessel-on-a-chip that recapitulates the kidney's filtering function and evaluates its response to various toxins.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiofabrication·DateMar 30, 2023

A method for designing neural networks optimally suited for certain tasks

MIT researchers discovered unconventional activation functions that enable optimal neural network performance, leading to better classification on various datasets. The findings suggest that selecting the correct activation function can significantly improve data accuracy in machine learning applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 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.

How to achieve a functional cure for chronic hepatitis B

Researchers found that after 96 weeks, some patients achieved loss of detectable HBsAg and reduced liver inflammation levels, indicating functional cure. The study suggests that discontinuing long-term antiviral therapy may be more effective than continuing it for certain patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 30, 2023

To ice or not to ice? Icing promotes muscle regeneration after mild injury

Researchers found that applying ice to minor muscle damage in rats enhances muscle repair and reduces inflammation. The study used an animal model of mild injuries and showed that icing attenuates the recruitment of pro-inflammatory macrophages, preventing injury expansion. This contradicts previous findings on the negative effects of ...

SourceKobe University·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

Prototype taps into the sensing capabilities of any smartphone to screen for prediabetes

Researchers at the University of Washington developed GlucoScreen, a new system that leverages smartphone capacitive touch sensing to measure blood glucose levels. The system's accuracy is comparable to standard glucometer testing, making it potentially less costly and more accessible for widespread screening.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·DateMar 30, 2023

How plants adapt to nitrogen deficiency

Scientists have identified specific genetic variants in wheat and barley that enable plants to adapt to nitrogen deficiency by increasing root growth and improving nitrogen content. These findings offer promising opportunities for plant breeding to develop varieties with enhanced nitrogen use efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNew Phytologist·DateMar 30, 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.

Autism may be linked to different perceptions of movement in infancy

A new study reveals that autistic children have distinct brain activity when viewing complex visual motion patterns as early as 5 months old. This suggests that autistic individuals process visual motion differently from a young age, which may impact their development and learning.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 30, 2023

Babies’ gut microbiome not influenced by mothers’ vaginal microbiome composition

A recent study published in Frontiers found that maternal vaginal microbiome composition does not significantly influence the development of infants' stool microbiome during the first weeks and months of life. Instead, exposure to breast milk and environmental factors are believed to play a more significant role.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 30, 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.

Fewer than 10% of patients screened for food insecurity during pandemic

A study from the University of California, Davis found that fewer than 10% of patients were screened for food insecurity during the pandemic. Screening increased to 10% after COVID-19 vaccines became available, but remained low at telehealth appointments.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 30, 2023

AI algorithm unblurs the cosmos

Researchers have developed an AI algorithm that can remove atmospheric blur from astronomical images, resulting in more accurate scientific measurements and clearer data. The tool produces faster and more realistic images than current methods, producing 38.6% less error compared to classic methods.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 30, 2023

Across the divide: Manufacturing better batteries

The article explores knowledge gaps between laboratory and industrial manufacturing of batteries, highlighting the need for a shift in research priorities. Researchers propose new ways to design experiments that account for industry challenges, such as cost efficiency and impurity tolerance. The study aims to bridge the gap between fun...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 30, 2023

SLAS discovery highlights protocols in drug discovery for March special issue

The March special issue of SLAS Discovery introduces protocol articles highlighting detailed scientific methods and procedures in drug discovery. The issue covers topics such as 3D imaging, cancer treatments, and high-throughput screening, emphasizing transparency and rigor in research methodology.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS DISCOVERY·TypeNews article·DateMar 30, 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.

Scientists observe flattest explosion ever seen in space

Astronomers have observed an extremely rare and aspherical Fast Blue Optical Transient (FBOT) explosion 180 million light years away. The explosion, similar to a flat disc shape, challenges scientists' current understanding of stellar explosions.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateMar 30, 2023

New lightweight battery set to provide alternatives for electric transport

Researchers at Cranfield University are developing a new generation of lithium-sulfur batteries that offer improved performance and reduced weight compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The technology has the potential to support electrification of short-haul aircraft, light goods vehicles, and passenger vehicles.

SourceCranfield University·DateMar 30, 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.

Do we understand the flickering flames?

A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology discovered that the flickering of flames can be controlled by moving two flames closer together or further apart. By periodically adjusting the distance between flames, they were able to stably express the state of “stopping the flickering of flames”, a phenomenon previously unknown...

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

New RNA-based toolkit to regulate gene activity could advance regenerative medicine, gene therapy and biotechnology

Scientists developed a new RNA-based toolkit that can regulate gene expression, potentially improving regenerative medicine, gene therapy, and biotechnology. The technology uses small molecules to control the activity of synthetic RNA, allowing for precise control over gene expression.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

Novel immunotherapy delivery approach safe and beneficial for some melanoma patients with leptomeningeal disease

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have developed a novel approach to administer intrathecal and intravenous immunotherapy to treat leptomeningeal disease (LMD) in melanoma patients, showing promising results in improving survival rates and quality of life for some patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 30, 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.

Development of a biosensor for real time detection of the G-protein molecular switch in our body

The research team developed a new biosensor based on a fluorescent protein utilizing human M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (hM3R), a type of GPCR. They found that a GPCR-based single receptor sensor exhibited consecutive structural conversion via the G protein cycle, and that G-protein activation caused a two-step change in the hM...

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 30, 2023

Lynx reintroduction in Scotland? It’s complicated

A new study in Scotland reveals that stakeholders have diverse and nuanced views on potential lynx reintroduction, with disagreements over sheep farming and ecosystem management. The research highlights the need for a participatory approach to discuss the issue.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPeople and Nature·DateMar 30, 2023

New procedure helps patients avoid leg amputation

A new procedure has shown promising results in avoiding leg amputation for patients with severe peripheral artery disease. The PROMISE II U.S. clinical trial found that 76% of patients were able to keep their legs and had completely healed or healing wounds six months post-procedure.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 30, 2023

New study identifies key risk factors for surgical site infection following commonly performed surgery

A new study has identified key risk factors for surgical site infections (SSIs) following abdominal hysterectomies. The analysis of over 66,000 procedures found that patients with open surgery, obesity, diabetes, and younger age were more likely to experience an SSI.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 30, 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.

New method of monitoring shore ice could improve public safety

Researchers have developed a new method to monitor shore ice using portable interferometric radar, which can detect small changes in the ice's distance and reveal signs of instability. This system can provide an early warning for humans working on shorefast sea ice and also aid in near-coastal navigation.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalCold Regions Science and Technology·DateMar 30, 2023

New Study: Breast cancer screenings of at-risk women dropped after revised mammography guidelines issued in 2009

A study found that the change in guidelines led to a decline in mammography screening rates, particularly among women ages 50-74, an unintended consequence known as spillover. This effect resulted in 2.4 million fewer women being up-to-date with screening mammography between 2009 and 2018.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 30, 2023

Ancient forests, seaways, and climate: Lessons from the miocene for today's world

Researchers used a coupled model to simulate ocean circulation and temperature during the MMCO, finding that global average temperature was over 3℃ higher than present. Extensive forest coverage played a significant role in climate regulation, with land temperatures particularly high in the Sahara and high northern latitudes.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalPalaeogeography Palaeoclimatology Palaeoecology·DateMar 30, 2023

*Free* Indigenous cultures adopted horses of primarily Spanish origin before Europeans arrived in the American Great Plains and northern Rockies

A new study reveals that Indigenous cultures integrated domestic horses of Spanish ancestry into their lifeways before Europeans arrived in the region. The analysis of archaeological horse remains suggests that these animals spread northward from Spanish settlements in the American Southwest during the first half of the 1600s.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 30, 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.

New circuit model offers insights into brain function

A new computational model of the thalamic microcircuit in mouse brains offers detailed insights into its role in brain function and dysfunction, particularly in relation to sensory processing and spindles. The model replicates network-level experimental findings across different brain states, shedding light on inhibitory rebound and th...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 30, 2023

DNA testing finds endangered eels on the menu

A recent study by the University of Exeter has confirmed the widespread trading of critically endangered European eels in international markets. The research found that about 40% of North American unagi samples contained European eel, suggesting a significant role for illegal trade in their supply chain.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFood Control·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 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.

20-year study may upend long-held theory about chromosomes and cancer

A new study of over 200 people with premature aging syndromes caused by abnormally short telomeres suggests that chromosomal instability may not be the reason for increased cancer risk. Instead, immune system cells that age and die prematurely may play a role in cancer predisposition.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Cell·DateMar 30, 2023

Hubble finds Saturn's rings heating its atmosphere

Astronomers have found that Saturn's vast ring system is heating the giant planet's upper atmosphere, a phenomenon that could provide insights into the atmospheres of distant worlds. The discovery was made using archival ultraviolet-light observations from four space missions, including Hubble and Cassini.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMar 30, 2023

Researchers call for the science needed to get the ocean we want

The High Seas Treaty aims to establish cooperative approaches to improve ocean management, but scientists argue that more research is needed to effectively implement the agreement. The treaty proposes massive marine protected areas covering 30% of the ocean by 2030, which could significantly improve ocean conservation.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 30, 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 IVF method: More expensive, not more effective

A new IVF method using time-lapse monitoring has been found not to improve pregnancy rates or shorten the time it takes to get pregnant. The study, which evaluated 1731 patients over a year, also found that this approach does not lead to extra costs or benefits.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 30, 2023

UC study: Engaging in civic leadership empowers refugees, immigrants

A new UC study reveals that participating in a civic leadership program empowered refugees and immigrants, increasing their perception of civic engagement. The program, designed by the refugee community, improved participants' consciousness about power, rights, and opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateMar 30, 2023

DGIST Professor Yoonkyu Lee’s research team has developed a high-performance transparent-flexible electronic device based on a copper-graphene nanowire synthesized by scintillation

The research team has developed a method for mass-producing high-quality copper-graphene nanowires, enabling the production of transparent-flexible electrode materials. The technology is applicable to various energy devices, including semitransparent solar cells and transparent displays.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Energy·DateMar 30, 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.