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Science News for November 29, 2023


What smoking does to oral bacteria

A study conducted by Eurac Research Institute found that cigarette use alters the oral microbiome, leading to an increased risk of periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. Quitting smoking results in a gradual increase in aerobic bacteria, which can lead to improved blood pressure regulation.

SourceEurac Research·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Certain migraine medications may be more effective than Ibuprofen

A new study using smartphone app data found certain medications like triptans, ergots, and anti-emetics to be two to five times more effective than ibuprofen for migraine treatment. Researchers analyzed over 3 million treatment attempts with various medications, including NSAIDs and combination therapies.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 29, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Disc around star observed in another galaxy for the first time

Researchers from Rice University and Durham University discovered a rotating disc of material circling a massive young star outside the Milky Way. The finding provides strong evidence for the formation process of high-mass stars, which are several times bigger than the Sun.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Findings challenge standard understanding of COVID-19 infection

Researchers at UC Riverside found that SARS-CoV-2 entry varies among different species and tissue types, highlighting the need for thorough investigations into viral entry mechanisms. The study's findings suggest that targeting TMPRSS2 may not be effective in preventing COVID-19 infection in mink.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 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.

Age at menopause could determine risk for decline in muscle mass and strength

A new study suggests that a longer reproductive life span is associated with a decreased risk of low handgrip strength in postmenopausal women. The findings, published in Menopause journal, also indicate that this trend continues even after controlling for other variables such as household income and level of education.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Social media use linked to risky health behaviors in young people

A systematic review of over 250 social media measures found frequent or daily social media use associated with higher odds of alcohol consumption, drug use, tobacco use, risky sexual behaviors, and anti-social behavior. Exposure to content such as alcohol advertising had the strongest evidence of harm.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 29, 2023

A long-acting biologic with transmucosal transport properties that arrest SARS-CoV-2 virus variants

A long-acting biologic with transmucosal transport properties has been developed to block cellular infection of all SARS-CoV-2 variants. The biologic utilizes a soluble recombinant human ACE2 protein fused to an engineered human albumin variant, offering improved pharmacokinetic properties and delivery across selective barriers.

SourceUniversity of Oslo, Faculty of Medicine·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 29, 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.

Eye-safe laser technology to diagnose traumatic brain injury

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have created a novel diagnostic device using eye-safe laser technology to detect traumatic brain injury. The device uses Raman spectroscopy to analyze biochemical and structural properties of molecules in the eye, providing information on the severity of trauma.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Fish brains may provide insight into the molecular basis of decision-making

Researchers found that male sticklebacks have a unique molecular response when faced with conflicting demands, including genes related to dopamine and neurogenesis. The study provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of animal behavior, suggesting that complex decision-making processes are ancient and widespread among animals.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalBiology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 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.

Newborn babies at risk from bacteria commonly carried by mothers

Researchers discovered that women carrying Group B Streptococcus bacteria are up to three times more likely to have newborns admitted to neonatal units. The team developed an ultrasensitive PCR test to detect the bacteria, suggesting a 'cytokine storm' may be behind increased risk of disease.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

AI model predicts breast cancer risk without racial bias

A deep learning AI model developed using mammographic images alone accurately predicted both ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive carcinoma, showing no bias across multiple races. The model outperformed traditional risk models in predicting breast cancer risk, providing a more accurate and equitable assessment.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2023

Mindfulness-based intervention shows promise for PTSD in cardiac arrest survivors

A novel pilot study combines mindfulness and exposure therapy to reduce PTSD symptoms in cardiac arrest survivors, with 80% showing significant improvement. The treatment protocol also improved cardiovascular health behaviors, including sleep quality and physical activity.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2023

Actively monitoring cervical lesions linked to heightened long term risk of cervical cancer

A recent study published in The BMJ suggests that actively monitoring abnormal cells on the cervix rather than removing them immediately may be associated with a higher long-term risk of cervical cancer. Women who underwent active surveillance had a nearly fourfold higher risk of cervical cancer after 20 years compared to those who rec...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 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.

An astronomical waltz reveals a sextuplet of planets

Researchers uncover six transiting planets around HD110067, a bright star with a chain of resonances spanning five pairs. The precise gravitational dance enabled the team to solve the previously unsolvable puzzle of the system's arrangement, revealing planetary orbits and orbital periods.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

No evidence found that cannabis reduces long term opioid use

A 20-year Australian study found no evidence that cannabis reduces illicit opioid use, and its effectiveness in managing opioid crisis is uncertain. The researchers suggest that clinicians and policymakers should exercise caution when relying on cannabis as a solution.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 29, 2023

Fighting fruit flies help researchers understand why we stay angry

A new study reveals that female fruit flies exhibit states of persistent aggression, similar to human anger, and identify cell types contributing to this behavior. The researchers found that a specific cell type, aIPg, can cause flies to remain angry for up to 10 minutes, but other factors may also be involved.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournaleLife·DateNov 29, 2023

Can't un-cook an egg

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a new reactant demonstrating efficacy on proteins with drug-resistant mutations. The new inhibitor, ArNASA, reacts with lysine residues and is highly stable in physiological environments.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJACS·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Tracing the evolution of the “little brain”

Researchers have generated comprehensive genetic maps of the developing cerebellum in humans, mice, and opossums. The study reveals ancestral and species-specific cellular characteristics spanning over 160 million years of mammalian evolution.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 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.

Detoxifying gold mining

Researchers are working to better understand and reduce the health risks associated with mercury use in artisanal and small-scale gold mining. A new approach has been piloted, which can help reduce mercury emissions in these mines.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCleaner Production Letters·DateNov 29, 2023

Landscape dynamics determine the evolution of biodiversity on Earth

A scientific model published in Nature shows a striking correlation between landscape dynamics and the evolution of life on Earth. The study proposes that sediment pulses controlled by past landscapes have played a key role in shaping biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2023

Are you at risk for diet-related disease? Where you spend your day plays a role

A research team led by USC's Abigail Horn used smartphone mobility data to find a strong correlation between location visits and diet-related diseases. The study reveals that physical food environments play a crucial role in shaping people's eating decisions, with environments like fast-food joints contributing to unhealthy choices.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalDigital Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 29, 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.

Long-live quantum entanglement goes to distance

Researchers have achieved record-long quantum storage of entangled photons at telecom wavelengths on a platform that can be deployed in extended networks. The storage time is almost 400 times longer than previous demonstrations, demonstrating a decisive step towards practical devices.

SourceNanjing University School of Physics·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Disruptive ideas rely on old fashioned meetings

Studies have shown that collaborative teams working remotely produce fewer truly disruptive ideas compared to their in-person counterparts. In-person teams tend to engage in more conceptual work, such as conceiving hypotheses and writing, which is more likely to lead to radical new ideas.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

New research sheds light on Bantu-speaking populations' expansion in Africa

A comprehensive genetic analysis of modern and ancient individuals suggests that Bantu-speaking populations originated in western Africa and expanded south and east in several waves. The study identifies key crossroads of interaction between different routes of expansion in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2023

Coronary heart disease before age 45 may increase risk of dementia later in life

Research found a significant linear relationship between age of coronary heart disease onset and dementia, highlighting the detrimental influence of premature cardiovascular events on brain health. Adults diagnosed with coronary heart disease at a young age may be at increased risk of developing dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascu...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateNov 29, 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.

Study: cannabis use disorder increasing among veterans with psychiatric disorders

Research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry finds that cannabis use disorder is disproportionately increasing among veterans with psychiatric disorders, particularly those with more severe mental health conditions. The study suggests that factors like increased legalization and potency may contribute to this trend.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Long-standing hormone treatment for donated hearts found to be ineffective

A clinical trial by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found routine thyroid hormone intervention to be ineffective in preserving heart function and increasing organ availability for transplantation. The practice may even cause harm, prompting the authors to recommend halting its use.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 29, 2023

Big cities foster socioeconomic segregation; Here’s how we can fix that

Research using cellphone data found that most people in big cities primarily interact with others within their own socioeconomic bracket. However, locating meeting places between neighborhoods could help change this, as cities with frequently-visited hubs in between neighborhoods were less segregated.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2023

OCD therapy retrains the brain

A new study finds that exposure and response prevention (EX/RP) therapy for OCD improves cognitive control by strengthening connections between brain networks. This breakthrough sheds light on the mechanisms underlying EX/RP's effectiveness in treating OCD, paving the way for targeted therapies.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 29, 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.

Laser-induced hydrothermal growth for electrocatalytic applications

Researchers developed a novel laser-induced hydrothermal reaction method to grow binary metal oxide nanostructures and layered-double hydroxides on nickel foams. This technique improves the production rate by over 19 times while consuming only 27.78% of the total energy required by conventional methods.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 29, 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.

Scientists create framework to guide development and assessment of urban climate action plans

A new framework for urban climate action planning has been developed to aid local governments in developing and assessing their climate action plans. The framework includes 43 globally recognized criteria across three stages of climate planning, with over half of existing urban plans having a medium level of suitability.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateNov 29, 2023

A study unveils the link between musical preferences and our inner moral compass

A recent study has uncovered a remarkable connection between individuals' musical preferences and their moral values, shedding light on the influence of music on morality. The research found that specific lyrics and audio features from favorite songs can predict moral values such as Care and Fairness and Loyalty.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 29, 2023

Spatial transcriptomics in development and disease

Spatial transcriptomics reveals cellular heterogeneity, organizational patterns, and molecular communications foundational to tissue structure and dynamics. The technique has enhanced throughput and resolution, offering a synthesized perspective of biological entities across various levels of detail.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMolecular Biomedicine·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 29, 2023

Conscientious personalities less at risk of dementia diagnosis

Research reveals that people with high conscientiousness and extraversion traits are less likely to receive a dementia diagnosis, unlike those with neuroticism and negative affect. The study analyzed data from over 44,000 individuals and found no link between personality traits and actual brain pathology.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Sandpaper X-ray technique could change how batteries are monitored

Researchers have developed a low-cost method for using x-ray technology to capture images inside batteries and analyze their internal structure. The new technique uses sandpaper to structure illumination, allowing for detailed mapping at the nanoscale.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 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.

Substance abuse treatment helps reduce reported methamphetamine use among men who have sex with men

A UCLA study found that substance abuse treatment can lead to reduced methamphetamine usage and longer periods of abstinence. The study, which analyzed responses from nearly 300 men in Los Angeles, suggests that even limited treatment options can be effective in reducing methamphetamine use.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2023

Researchers at TU Graz decipher enzyme scissors of intestinal microbes

Microorganisms in the intestinal flora utilize beta-elimination to break down glycosides, enabling humans to absorb healthy plant natural products. The 'enzyme scissors' mechanism is a universal catalytic principle allowing for efficient cleavage of various glycosides.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2023

One in seven male gym goers consider impact on fertility

A study of 152 male gym enthusiasts found a significant lack of awareness about the risks of gym lifestyle on fertility. High levels of estrogen from protein supplements were linked to fertility issues, prompting a call for men to educate themselves about supplementation.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalReproductive BioMedicine Online·TypeSurvey·DateNov 29, 2023

600 years of tree rings reveal climate risks in California

A new study of 600 years of tree rings from the San Joaquin Valley reveals that climate extremes have been more severe and lasted longer than modern records, highlighting flood and drought risks in California. The research combines paleo information with synthetic weather generation to help understand and anticipate these risks.

SourceCornell University·DateNov 29, 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.

Releasing brakes on biocatalysis

Researchers have elucidated the molecular mechanism of formaldehyde poisoning in a class of efficient hydrogen-producing biocatalysts. The study suggests that modifying the enzyme to resist formaldehyde inhibition could enable its use in bio-based industrial processes and understanding metabolic pathways.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Study of ancient British oral microbiomes reveals shift following Black Death

New research suggests that the Second Plague Pandemic may have led to changes in the human oral microbiome, contributing to modern-day chronic diseases. The study found two distinct communities of bacteria, one dominated by Streptococcus and the other by Methanobrevibacter, with differences linked to diet and hygiene.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 29, 2023

Digital emblem for humanitarian law in cyberspace

The ETH Zurich-developed Authentic Digital EMblem (ADEM) aims to protect humanitarian organizations' digital infrastructure from cyberattacks. The system uses a combination of security protocols, including web PKI and CT ecosystem, to ensure authenticity, accountability, and covert inspection.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the ACM·DateNov 29, 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.

Enhanced treatment of liver carcinoma with a drug-eluting hydrogel

Scientists have developed a drug-eluting hydrogel that provides sustained, pH-dependent drug co-delivery and promotes anti-tumor immune responses, reducing tumor cell proliferation and growth. The treatment shows promise in treating hepatocellular carcinoma, with enhanced efficacy compared to traditional methods.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

A new bacterial species from a hydrothermal vent throws light on their evolution

A new bacterial species, Hydrogenimonas cancrithermarum, discovered at a deep-sea hydrothermal vent site provides insights into bacterial evolution. The strain represents the first mesophilic sulfur-oxidizing bacterium in its genus, expanding physiological and metabolic characteristics.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 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.

Revisiting gene dosage

A study by Max Planck researchers has discovered an epigenetic regulator MSL2 that ensures the expression of both alleles of haploinsufficient genes, crucial for human health. This mechanism allows for tissue- and cell-type specificity in gene dosage, opening new directions for understanding diseases and developing potential treatments.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Can we crack this cancer’s immune response?

Researchers confirm that pancreatic cancer triggers a response in the immune system, but T cells struggle to infiltrate tumors. This finding could guide future treatment development for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a deadly form of pancreatic cancer.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalJCI Insight·DateNov 29, 2023

Nature's palette reinvented: new fermentation breakthrough in sustainable food coloring

Researchers at DTU Biosustain develop innovative fermentation process to produce natural betalain-type food colors, reducing waste and environmental impact. The new technology can satisfy global demand with just one-tenth of the equivalent land area, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional extraction methods.

SourceDanmarks Tekniske Universitet The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 29, 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.

Breaking down barriers: What happens when the vaginal microbiome attacks

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that certain bacterial species dismantle protective molecules on vaginal cells, dysregulating cell turnover and response to surrounding bacteria. This study may help explain the association between bacterial vaginosis and adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 29, 2023

Improving our understanding of the effects of PFOS on fish

Two papers advance understanding of PFOS effects on aquatic life, particularly fish, by testing multiple concentrations and confirming its presence in water. The results indicate that earlier findings were non-repeatable and likely due to biological variation rather than PFOS toxicity.

SourceSociety of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 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.

Pick and place: Creating 3D-printed materials that shrink more precisely

Researchers developed a technique to achieve uniform shrinkage of 3D-printed structures, enabling finely detailed structures with advanced light manipulation capabilities. The method has applications in anti-counterfeiting, high-performance devices, and materials with precise structuring.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2023

Noise – not a nuisance but a source of information

Antiferromagnets exhibit fluctuations that can reveal information about their weakly magnetic material. Researchers developed a new method to detect these ultrafast fluctuations using ultrashort light pulses, leading to the discovery of telegraph noise.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 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.

Popularity matters more than compatibility on dating apps

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Washington found that online dating algorithms exhibit popularity bias, recommending more attractive users over less attractive ones. This bias boosts revenue through increased engagement and matches, but may compromise user satisfaction.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManufacturing and Service Operations Management·DateNov 29, 2023

The role of marketing in disrupted health care markets: It’s time to move beyond conventional strategies to account for new actors, roles, and exchanges

Disrupted health care markets have changed the creation, provision, and consumption of health care. Marketing strategies need to account for new producers, providers, and consumers. The editorial calls for a research agenda outlining opportunities for marketing scholars to examine the impact of disrupted exchanges on consumer welfare.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateNov 29, 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.

Phasing out fossil fuels could save millions of lives

A new study estimates that phasing out fossil fuels could save millions of lives by reducing air pollution-related mortality burden, with cardiometabolic conditions being the leading cause of death.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalBMJ·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2023

Common headaches tied to neck inflammation

Researchers identified a link between neck muscles and primary headaches, including tension-type headaches and migraines. Muscle T2 values were found to be significantly associated with headache frequency and neck pain.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2023

The chip that makes calculations with light

Scientists at Politecnico di Milano have created photonic chips that can mathematically calculate the ideal shape of light to pass through any environment, increasing transmission capacity. The devices generate multiple overlapping beams with unique shapes, reducing interference and enabling high-bandwidth data transfer

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 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.

Yale study gives grandmother gecko a place of honor — and a new name

Yale paleontologists have identified a new fossil lizard, Helioscopus dickersonae, which suggests that gecko ancestors appeared in North America earlier than previously known. The discovery provides insights into the physical features of early geckos and their behavior, including their ability to climb trees.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 29, 2023

Researchers discover new classes of RNA for learning and memory

Researchers from the University of Queensland have identified a noncoding RNA called Gas5 that coordinates neuronal excitability in real time, contributing to learning and memory. The study found that this RNA is uniquely required for fear extinction memory, a type of critical input processing that leads to the formation of memory.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Narratives clash in the war taking place on social media

The study examines how social media comments influenced the public's perception of the war in Ukraine, focusing on age, gender, and ethnicity. It reveals how women are framed as symbols of national identity, with women from opposing sides being demonized or portrayed as weak.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNations and Nationalism·DateNov 29, 2023

Building blocks for life could have formed near new stars and planets

A team of researchers found that carbamic acid and ammonium carbamate can form in interstellar ices at low temperatures, potentially delivering these molecules to early Earth via comets or meteorites. This discovery could inform future studies using powerful telescopes to search for prebiotic molecules in distant star-forming regions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 29, 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.

Breakthrough study shows exercise improves cognitive health for people with Down syndrome

A breakthrough study found that light exercise can improve cognitive health in adults with Down syndrome, leading to improved information processing and attention. After just eight weeks of walking, participants showed significant increases in physical fitness and reductions in errors during cognitive assessments.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 29, 2023

Novel study finds aspirin-free regimen benefits patients with LVAD

A randomized clinical trial found that excluding aspirin from the antithrombotic regimen in LVAD patients improved adverse event rates by a significant reduction in non-surgical bleeding. The study results suggest that an aspirin-free regimen is safe and may improve longevity, morbidity, and quality of life for these patients.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJAMA·DateNov 29, 2023

Protection of highly threatened sharks and rays inadequate

A new study by the University of Zurich found that global shark and ray protection is inadequate, with crucial species playing vital ecological roles in maintaining biodiversity. The research identified 18 unique functional diversity hotspots concentrated along continental shelves and oceanic islands.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Rise of microplastics discovered in placentas of Hawaiʻi mothers

A new study discovered microplastics in the placentas of Hawaiʻi mothers between 2006 and 2021, with increasing presence found each year. The researchers believe microplastics may be ingested through food or inhaling dust particles, raising concerns about their impact on fetal health.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalEnvironment International·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 29, 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.

Early humans hunted beavers, 400,000 years ago

A team from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz found that Middle Pleistocene humans had a more varied diet than previously known, with beaver meat being a significant component. They hunted young adult beavers, indicating a deliberate strategy to target fat-rich animals as a crucial food resource during the Pleistocene era.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScientific Reports·TypeCase study·DateNov 29, 2023

Pulling an all-nighter? Don’t follow with an important decision

A study from the University of Ottawa found that sleep deprivation significantly impacts decision-making processes, reducing neural responses to winning and losing outcomes. This can lead to diminished positive emotions in response to winning and negative emotions when faced with losses.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalPsychophysiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2023

Identifying Australia's most elusive birds

Researchers have identified Australia's most hard-to-find species using over 3.8 million volunteer hours of birdwatching data, including the elusive Coxen's fig-parrot.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalEmu - Austral Ornithology·DateNov 29, 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.

Artificial intelligence paves way for new medicines

Researchers developed an AI model to predict borylation positions in drug molecules, improving chemical synthesis efficiency. The method enables late-stage drug diversification by high-throughput experimentation with geometric deep learning.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2023

A single Bitcoin transaction could cost as much water as a backyard swimming pool

A single Bitcoin transaction consumes approximately 16,000 liters of water, equivalent to filling a backyard swimming pool. This staggering amount of water is part of the larger environmental impact of Bitcoin mining, which could worsen water scarcity in countries already struggling with droughts.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 29, 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.

The venom preceded the stinger: Genomic studies shed light on the origins of bee venom

Researchers examined venom genes in bees and other hymenopteran taxa using comparative genomics. They found that 12 'families' of peptides and proteins were present in all analyzed hymenopterans, indicating a common ancestor possessed these genes. This suggests that Hymenoptera insects are venomous as an entire group.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalBMC Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Applications of macrocyclic molecules in cancer therapy: Target cancer development or overcome drug resistance

Researchers have identified macrocyclic compounds as a potential solution for targeting proteins critical to tumorigenesis, blocking nearly 80% of cancer's signature characteristic events. Additionally, these small compact molecules can effectively overcome drug resistance by binding to mutant proteins and inhibiting their activities.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Oncology·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 29, 2023

Brittle stars can learn just fine -- even without a brain

Researchers found that brittle stars, brainless marine creatures, can associate darkness with food and react accordingly, demonstrating classical conditioning. They retained this association even after a break from training, suggesting potential learning capabilities in these animals.

SourceDuke University·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Swapping blood for spit — for convenient at-home health monitoring

Researchers have developed a device that detects glucose and adenosine monophosphate biomarkers in saliva with high sensitivity, enabling easy at-home health monitoring. The electrochemical aptamer-based biosensor is simple, accurate, and stable, making it suitable for use without laboratory equipment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateNov 29, 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.

Greener solution powers new method for lithium-ion battery recycling

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new, efficient, and environmentally-friendly solution for lithium-ion battery recycling using organic citric acid. This approach recovers critical metals like cobalt and lithium, reduces pollution and reliance on foreign sources, and eliminates the need for hazardous chemicals.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Variety is key

A University of Bonn study found that nearly half of the world is suitable for diversified farming for sustainable intensification. The study suggests that regions with developed infrastructure near urban centers are particularly promising for profitable diversified farming practices.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateNov 29, 2023

New astrophysics model sheds light on additional source of long gamma-ray bursts

A new unified model confirms that some long-lasting gamma-ray bursts are created in the aftermath of cosmic mergers that spawn an infant black hole surrounded by a giant disk of natal material. The findings explain recently observed long GRBs that astronomers couldn't link to collapsing stars.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2023

AI may aid in diagnosing adolescents with ADHD

Researchers used AI to analyze brain white matter tracts in adolescents with and without ADHD, discovering significant differences in nine brain tracts in individuals with ADHD. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing the condition.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 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.

Parsing the puzzle of nucleon spin

Physicist Alexandre Deur's study of nucleon spin structure has made significant advances in understanding quantum chromodynamics, a theory that describes how quarks and gluons behave. The research, conducted at Jefferson Lab, involves studying the nucleon at high, intermediate, and low beam energies to see how its properties change wit...

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateNov 29, 2023

Quantum tool opens door to uncharted phenomena

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have developed a new approach to study entanglement in quantum materials. By using a quantum simulator with 51 particles, they were able to extract information about the existing entanglement with drastically fewer measurements than previously thought possible.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

Are healthy foods automatically sustainable, too?

A University of Konstanz study found that consumers believe healthy meals are also sustainable, but actual environmental impact and healthiness don't necessarily align. The research suggests that better information on food sustainability is needed to inform consumer choices.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPLOS Sustainability and Transformation·DateNov 29, 2023

To build better tuberculosis vaccines, Saint Louis University researchers develop a new model by leveraging an old vaccine

Researchers tested the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine in healthy adults to gather data about TB immune responses. The study found associations between BCG and gene expression changes in blood, providing insights into optimal protection against TB.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 29, 2023

Being prepared for storm surges on the Baltic Sea coast

Researchers at Kiel University modelled various storm surge and sea level rise scenarios to assess the effectiveness of dike lines and managed realignment. They found that current defence lines are insufficient to withstand sea level rise, but managed realignment could provide greater protection when combined with raising existing dikes.

SourceKiel University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2023

Social media posts that promote tobacco are increasing, AI detection technology finds

A study led by Keck School of Medicine of USC used AI detection technology to analyze influencer content on TikTok between 2019 and 2022, finding an increase in posts that promote e-cigarettes. The prevalence of pod devices, e-juice flavor names, and nicotine warning labels increased significantly over time.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 29, 2023

Economic crashes linked to rise in male suicides, vast review shows

Research reviews 98 articles worldwide, finding suicide rates among men increase during and after economic crises. The study highlights the need for governments to fund health services and social support systems to mitigate mental health impact.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Mental Health·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 29, 2023