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Science News Archive November 2023


Page 1 of 40

Consensus needed on when global warming reaches 1.5°C

Researchers propose a new approach to measure global warming, combining the last ten years of temperature observations with projections for the next decade. The current level of global warming is around 1.26°C, with an uncertainty range of 1.13°C to 1.43°C.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 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.

Pickier dogs have pickier brains

A new study found that pickier dogs exhibit distinct brain responses when rewarded with higher-quality food, which influences their motivation. The research used behavioral observations and neuroimaging techniques to investigate the relationship between food quality and dog behavior.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2023

Optimistic thinking linked with lower cognitive abilities – new research

Research from the University of Bath found that excessive optimism is associated with lower cognitive skills, leading to poor decision-making in financial matters. Individuals with high cognitive ability tend to be more realistic and pessimistic, making better decisions.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 30, 2023

Scientists use A.I.-generated images to map visual functions in the brain

Researchers used AI-selected natural images and synthetic images to probe visual processing areas of the brain, finding that predicted maximal activator images significantly activated targeted areas. The study suggests individualized models for each subject can improve understanding of visual system organization across populations.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalCommunications Biology·DateNov 30, 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.

What makes sustainable consumption so difficult

Environmental and social factors greatly influence individual behavior, according to Professor Wilhelm Hofmann of Ruhr University Bochum. Traditional approaches focus on personal autonomy but neglect structural factors, leading to ineffective decisions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Reviews Psychology·DateNov 30, 2023

Rare ant species rediscovered in North Carolina trees

Researchers have discovered a rare ant species in North Carolina's tree canopies, documenting an entire colony for the first time. The species, Aphaenogaster mariae, has a distinctive arboreal lifestyle, with queens being smaller than other ant queens and males previously unknown to science.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington·TypeCase study·DateNov 30, 2023

Durable plastic pollution easily, cleanly degrades with new catalyst

A new catalyst developed by Northwestern University chemists can break down Nylon-6, a common plastic found in fishing nets, carpet, and clothing, in just minutes. The process does not generate harmful byproducts and is practical for everyday applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

New research explores future limits of survival and livability in extreme heat conditions

A new study explores the future limits of survival and livability in extreme heat conditions, finding that current estimates may not accurately represent impacts on human health. The research provides a range of safe temperatures based on factors like humidity, age, activity level, and sun exposure.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 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.

Sea fireflies synchronize their sparkle to seek soulmates

Researchers discovered that male ostracods create distinct patterns of bioluminescence to attract females, which are then mirrored by other males, creating a spectacular underwater display. The synchronized swim occurs after sunset at nautical twilight and is used to entice groups of females.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 30, 2023

Fish-like genetic program used to turn human retinal cells into neurons

Researchers have successfully converted human retinal cells, specifically Muller glia, into neurons in a lab setting using an artificial fish-like genetic program. This breakthrough could potentially serve as a new source of neurons to treat vision loss caused by disease or trauma.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateNov 30, 2023

Replacing animal products with a plant-based diet leads to weight loss, finds new analysis

Replacing animal products with plant-based foods leads to significant weight loss, reduced cholesterol and fat intake, and increased fiber consumption among overweight adults. A new analysis found that a vegan diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans results in an average weight loss of about 13 pounds.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 30, 2023

Combined use of alcohol and THC can affect rat brains, study finds

Researchers found that combined use of alcohol and THC affects the prefrontal cortex, impairing synaptic plasticity in rats. The effects were more pronounced in females and were likely due to changes in gamma-aminobutyric acid signaling.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNeuropharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Choice of intravenous fluid therapy could improve survival in critically ill patients

A new meta-analysis found that intravenous fluid therapy using balanced solutions can reduce the risk of in-hospital death in critically ill patients by four percent. Balanced solutions are more closely matched to human blood chemistry than commonly used saline, and may be associated with lower mortality rates.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 30, 2023

Thomas Fire research reveals that ash can fertilize the oceans

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara discovered that wildfire ash adds nutrients to marine systems, benefiting microbes and plankton growth. Ash enriched seawater with nitrogen sources, metals, and silicic acid, promoting primary production in coastal ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 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.

Snake skulls show how species adapt to prey

Researchers studied dipsadine snake skulls to understand how species adapt to their habitats and food sources. The study found strong correlations between skull shape and ecology, indicating that habitat use and diet preferences drive cranial evolution in these snakes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalBMC Ecology·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 30, 2023

Progress toward improved vaccines

A research team has introduced a spectrum of potential adjuvants, including α-GalCer analogs with improved activity. The new compounds trigger stronger immune responses in mice, with some demonstrating better adjuvant properties than previously optimized variants.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Straining memory leads to new computing possibilities

Researchers at University of Rochester developed a new form of computing memory by straining materials to create hybrid phase-change memristors. This approach combines the benefits of memristors and phase-change materials, overcoming limitations of existing forms of memory.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Electronics·DateNov 30, 2023

New model allows for learning and prediction of microbial interactions

Researchers developed a new framework to predict how microbes interact with each other in unique compositions. Most microbes had minimal impact on the final outcome, with only select few playing crucial roles. The model has potential applications in personalized medicine and understanding microbiome assembly.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 30, 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.

Tis the season to recognize chocolate: researchers highlight high quality cacao in Colombia

A study published in Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture proposes a framework to characterise the unique properties of cacao beans in the Buenaventura region. The research highlights the benefits of establishing Denominations of Origin for cacao, including higher market prices, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateNov 30, 2023

Scientists uncover how fermented-food bacteria can guard against depression, anxiety

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have discovered how Lactobacillus, a bacterium found in fermented foods and yogurt, influences mood disorders. The findings suggest that maintaining a healthy level of Lactobacillus may help prevent depression and anxiety by regulating immune response to stress.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·DateNov 30, 2023

Can artificial intelligence improve life science? As much as life science can improve AI, researchers say

Recent publications in Quantitative Biology assess AI's potential to improve life science research, including applications in medicine and bioinformatics. Researchers propose frameworks for integrating AI in digital investigation, such as Digital Life Systems, which aims to comprehensively integrate AI into system modeling.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalQuantitative Biology·DateNov 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.

Researchers profile pollutants present in an important river basin in São Paulo state, Brazil

A study by UNICAMP researchers found high concentrations of contaminants in the Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí River Basin, including PFAS compounds, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. The study highlights the severity of pollution in the region, which supplies water for drinking, irrigation, and industry.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemosphere·DateNov 30, 2023

Two teosintes made modern maize

A new study has clarified the origin of modern maize by revealing evidence of wild admixture during its initial domestication and dispersal. The findings suggest that a wild relative of teosinte, Zea mays mexicana, contributed genetic traits beneficial for domestication, including photoperiodicity and flowering time.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 30, 2023

Lower voltage and reduced carbon input for cleaner energy in the works

Researchers at Tsinghua University Press have developed a non-precious metal electrocatalyst for water splitting, achieving stable oxygen evolution reactions (OER) and hydrogen evolution reactions (HER). The FeSnCo Sx Oy /NF catalyst shows promise in reducing carbon-based energy sources and producing more energy than gasoline.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateNov 30, 2023

High altitude training shows promise for patients ahead of surgery

A new study found that simulated high altitude exposure can increase haemoglobin levels in older patients, potentially benefiting their physical health before surgery. The research suggests that 'altitude prehabilitation' could be a useful approach to improve fitness and reduce complications in patients at risk.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAnaesthesia·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 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.

Who supports Putin? Men, older generations and traditionalists, study shows

A study published in Political Geography reveals that Putin's autocratic leadership appeals to people with close-minded personalities who value tradition and don't trust science. The research found consistent support for Putin across six neighboring countries, with men and older generations showing higher approval rates.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPolitical Geography·DateNov 30, 2023

Illuminating the benefits of marine protected areas for ecotourism, and vice versa

A new study by researchers at UC Santa Barbara's Marine Science Institute found that marine protected areas (MPAs) have a significant impact on the scuba diving industry in Southern California. Ecotourism activities such as underwater wildlife viewing and photography tend to occur within MPAs, while recreational lobster fishing prefers...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalMarine Policy·DateNov 30, 2023

A novel targeted molecular therapy for drug-resistant biliary tract cancer

Researchers from Japan have discovered a novel targeted molecular therapy using microRNA-451a to suppress the progression of gemcitabine-resistant biliary tract cancers. The study found that miR-451a significantly diminished cell proliferation, induced cell death, and reduced chemoresistance in cancer cells.

SourceOkayama University·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 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.

Early rhythm control, lifestyle modification and more tailored stroke risk assessment are top goals in managing atrial fibrillation

The new guideline emphasizes the importance of disease prevention, risk factor modification, and optimized therapies to manage atrial fibrillation. It also updates guidelines for catheter ablation, anticoagulants, and heart rate management, aiming to improve patient outcomes and reduce stroke risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 30, 2023

One of the largest magnetic storms in history quantified: Aurorae covered much of the night sky from the Tropics to the Polar Regions

A recent solar coronal mass ejection caused aurorae at low latitudes, while a historically significant event in 1872 was found to be one of the most extreme geomagnetic storms in history. The storm's impact on modern society could be severe, with potential disruptions to power grids, communication systems, and satellite communications.

SourceNagoya University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 30, 2023

Shape-changing helical microswimmers could revolutionize biomedical applications

Researchers develop pH-responsive helical hydrogel microswimmers that can traverse complex terrains and deliver drugs to targeted cells. The microswimmers change shape in response to environmental pH levels, enabling adaptive locomotion.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateNov 30, 2023

Air Force awards UTEP Grant to safeguard assets in space

The University of Texas at El Paso is leading a research effort to detect and study Unresolved Resident Space Objects (URSOs) using spectroscopy. The team aims to extract properties such as material composition and structural health to monitor the health of government-owned and commercial space assets.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·DateNov 30, 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.

Inoculation against diseased fields

Researchers found that mycorrhizal fungi can significantly improve crop yields by up to 40% in fields with high levels of fungal pathogens. The inoculation was most effective when the soil had already been contaminated with pathogens, serving as a protective shield against further damage.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Shedding light on the synthesis of sugars before the origin of life

A new study reveals a nonenzymatic chemical network that could have produced pentoses on early Earth, providing clues about primitive biochemistry. The proposed pathway relies on chemical transformations reminiscent of the pentose phosphate pathway, bringing us closer to understanding the emergence of life.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

Smart microgrids can restore power more efficiently and reliably in an outage

UC Santa Cruz engineers developed an AI model that optimizes the use of renewables and other energy sources to restore power when a main utility fails. The approach significantly outperforms traditional power restoration techniques, responding faster and adapting to changing conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalIEEE Transactions on Control of Network Systems·DateNov 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.

More than $13M awarded to study childhood obesity interventions in rural and minority communities in Louisiana and Tennessee

Researchers aim to determine optimal duration and intensity of behavioral interventions for childhood obesity among rural and minority children. The five-year study, funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, will enroll 900 parent-child pairs and compare different 'dosing' combinations of face-to-face intervention time.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateNov 30, 2023

Children who play baseball risk elbow injury

A study at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found that 20-40% of youth baseball players (ages 9-12) experience elbow pain. Skeletally immature children are more prone to injuries, including growth plate fractures and osteochondritis dissecans.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2023

Polarization-independent liquid-crystal phase modulators

Researchers have developed a new approach to polarization-independent liquid-crystal phase modulation using a light-controlled azimuth angle (LCAA) process. This process creates single-layer, multi-microdomain, orthogonally twisted structures with precise alignment, enabling high phase retardation and low polarization dependence.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateNov 30, 2023

Photonic chip that ‘fits together like Lego’ opens door to semiconductor industry

Researchers at the University of Sydney have invented a compact silicon semiconductor chip integrating electronics with photonic components, significantly expanding radio-frequency bandwidth and filter control. The new technology has potential applications in advanced radar, satellite systems, wireless networks, and telecommunications,...

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2023

A mixed origin made maize successful

A new study published in Science reveals that modern maize originated from a hybrid of two teosintes created around 5000 years ago in central Mexico. The hybridization event led to the spread of maize across the Americas and later worldwide, becoming one of the world's most important crops.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 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.

Traumatic memories are represented differently than regular sad memories in the brains of people with PTSD, new research shows

A new study found that traumatic memories in people with PTSD are represented in the brain in a distinct way, deviating from regular memory processing. The hippocampus and posterior cingulate cortex regions showed different neural responses to traumatic and sad autobiographical memories.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2023

A patch of protection against Zika virus

A new vaccine patch has delivered an effective immune response to Zika virus in mice, providing rapid protection against the disease. The patch, which uses a high-density microarray platform, targets a specific protein crucial to the virus's survival and evokes T-cell responses up to 270% higher than traditional vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalMolecular Therapy — Nucleic Acids·DateNov 30, 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.

Twin research indicates that that a vegan diet improves cardiovascular health

A vegan diet has been shown to improve cardiovascular health in just eight weeks, according to a study led by Stanford Medicine. The researchers found that participants who followed a vegan diet had lower LDL-C levels, insulin, and body weight compared to those on an omnivore diet.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 30, 2023

2D material reshapes 3D electronics for AI hardware

Researchers developed a novel approach to integrate multiple functions into a single chip using monolithic 3D integration of layered 2D materials. This technology offers unprecedented efficiency and performance in AI computing tasks, enabling faster processing, less energy consumption, and enhanced security.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 30, 2023

Regular screening mammograms significantly reduce breast cancer deaths

A study published at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found that attending regular mammograms can lower breast cancer mortality rates by up to 72%. Women who missed a scheduled mammogram had a significantly reduced survival rate, emphasizing the importance of adherence to screening schedules.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2023