Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 6, 2023


Study highlights optimal timing for assessing orthostatic hypotension in older adults and its impact on fall risk

A new study found that orthostatic hypotension assessments conducted after 4-6 minutes of standing are more informative for predicting fall risk in older adults. This timely assessment can help clinicians identify those at highest risk and institute appropriate interventions to reduce falls.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 6, 2023

Firearm injuries among children and adolescents lead to huge mental and behavioral health consequences

A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that child and adolescent survivors of firearm injuries experience significant increases in pain disorders, psychiatric disorders, and substance use disorders. Families of victims also face substantial mental health effects, including increased psychiatric disorders and health...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 6, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Success of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes in fighting dengue may be underestimated

Researchers analyzed a World Mosquito Program trial and found that excluding transmission dynamics likely underestimates the impact of Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes. The study suggests that true efficacy may be higher than initially reported, with potential reductions in dengue fever cases ranging from 77% to 94-97%.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 2023

Frogs were Florida’s first-known vertebrates from the Caribbean

Frogs from the genus Eleutherodactylus are geologically the oldest Caribbean vertebrates to be found in Florida. They arrived in North America much earlier than previously thought, with evidence suggesting they reached the peninsula through overwater dispersal on flotsam or other buoyant debris.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateNov 6, 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.

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.

Viano receives NSF CAREER Award

Samantha Viano, an Assistant Professor at George Mason University, has received a $1,044,599 NSF CAREER Award to investigate school policies and access to high school STEM credit recovery. The project aims to develop a theoretical framework for policymakers to improve outcomes for minoritized students in online credit recovery programs.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateNov 6, 2023

Future therapies for managing inflammatory bowel disease

Recent advances in IBD pathophysiology and treatment development have led to the emergence of new therapies for moderate-to-severe IBD. These novel medications show promising efficacy results for patients who have previously failed to respond to multiple drugs, offering a glimmer of hope for improved management.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateNov 6, 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.

Uptake of methylmercury by phytoplankton is controlled by thiols

A new study reveals that methylmercury uptake in phytoplankton is influenced by the presence of thiols in water. Thiols bind mercury strongly, limiting its availability to organisms. This process can result in dramatic enrichment of methylmercury levels in aquatic environments.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 6, 2023

Improving the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy with modified CAR-T cells

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have developed modified CAR-T cells that prevent exhaustion and significantly enhance therapy effectiveness in a preclinical animal model. The new approach uses the delta chain signaling subunit instead of the zeta chain, which triggers a more balanced immune response.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Immunology·DateNov 6, 2023

Doctors get tips on how to make healthcare greener

A new series by The BMJ offers actionable advice for doctors to make healthcare systems more sustainable. Practical actions include reducing nitrous oxide waste, using reusable vaginal speculums for cervical screening, and prescribing tablets over intravenous drugs.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeNews article·DateNov 6, 2023

Brain implant may enable communication from thoughts alone

A new speech prosthetic developed by Duke neuroscientists and engineers can translate brain signals into spoken words, improving communication for people with neurological disorders. The device achieved an accuracy rate of 40% in predicting intended speech from 90 seconds of brain activity.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 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.

Higher risk of 17 cancers after high BMI in late teens

Men who are overweight or obese at age 18 have a higher risk of developing 17 different cancers later in life. Higher BMI is also associated with an increased risk of mortality after cancer diagnosis for certain types of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalObesity·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

New study sheds light on Adélie penguins' reliance on declining sea ice during molt

Researchers have discovered a potential bottleneck in Adélie penguins' annual cycle, which could be exacerbated as the climate continues to change. The study found that seasonal Antarctic sea ice plays a crucial role in the penguins' molting periods, with low sea ice concentration signaling extended gaps in post-breeding diving activity.

SourcePoint Blue Conservation Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 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.

The health and economic toll of gun violence in youth

A new study reveals that gunshot injuries among youth lead to significant increases in psychiatric disorders and healthcare spending. Family members of survivors experience long-lasting trauma effects, including a sharp increase in fathers' mental health visits after the loss of a child.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 6, 2023

Fossils tell tale of last primate to inhabit North America before humans

Paleontologists uncover the story of Ekgmowechashala, a mysterious primate that defied extinction, through fossil teeth and jaws found in Nebraska and China. The discovery resolves the debate over its classification and origin, revealing it was an immigrant species that evolved in Asia and migrated to North America via Beringia.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateNov 6, 2023

Shorter white blood cell telomeres linked to higher dementia risk

Researchers found that shorter white blood cell telomeres are associated with a higher risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. The study also reveals linear associations between telomere length and brain structure volume, highlighting telomere length as a potential biomarker of brain health.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 6, 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.

New algae species rewrites understanding of reef systems

Researchers identified four new algae species, challenging previous taxonomic assumptions, with far-reaching implications for coral reef ecosystem management. The discovery highlights the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect this unique biodiversity.

SourceGriffith University·JournalJournal of Phycology·DateNov 6, 2023

New study finds electric vehicles are driven less than gas cars

A large study of used cars and SUVs found battery electric vehicles driven almost 4,500 fewer miles than gas cars annually. This challenges current assumptions about emissions savings from EVs, highlighting the need for better understanding of driver behavior to accurately predict emissions reductions.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJoule·DateNov 6, 2023

Black women teaching science find formula for incorporating anti-racist practices, study finds

A new study by NYU researchers found that Black women teaching science are finding innovative ways to combine traditional curricula with lessons on race, gender, and class inequities. They make cultural connections to science, encourage critical thinking, and provide historical contexts to help students understand the impact of systemi...

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

First wireless map of worm’s nervous system revealed

A team of scientists has created the first comprehensive map of a worm's nervous system, showing how neurons communicate wirelessly through neuropeptides. The study reveals complex networks with distinct hubs and connections that transcend traditional synaptic pathways.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·JournalNeuron·DateNov 6, 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.

Threatened sharks and rays caught off Cyprus

Researchers found 22 globally threatened elasmobranch species in Cyprus' coastal waters, with simple measures like limiting net lengths crucial for sustainability. Local authorities have banned trading of 15 species, and conservation efforts are underway to protect the marine ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

Model suggests that mammalian sperm cells have two modes of swimming

A new mathematical model suggests that mammalian sperm cells exhibit two distinct swimming modes, which may be linked to fertilization. The model captures the interactions between motor kinetics and flagella deformations, revealing a second mode with stronger wave-shaped beating.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 2023

Chicago community violence intervention program shown to reduce gun violence

A study led by Northwestern University found that a Chicago-based community violence intervention program reduced gun violence involvement by over 73% among participants. The program's alumni showed the best outcomes, with a significant decrease in assaults, robberies, and other gun-related violence.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2023

Scientists use SERS technology to accurately monitor single-molecule diffusion behavior

Researchers successfully monitored the diffusion behavior of a single molecule using SERS technology, enabling real-time analysis. The study found that crystalline violet molecules can be confined in sub-nanometer space, providing insights into molecular interactions and chemical reactions.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateNov 6, 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.

A cutting-edge approach to tackling pollution in Houston and beyond

A University of Houston research team integrated machine learning with SHAP analysis to identify the city's air pollution sources more accurately. The study found that the oil and gas industry had the highest impact on emissions, while shortwave radiation and relative humidity were key influencing factors for overall ozone concentration.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateNov 6, 2023

Gas-rich baby galaxies set the early Universe alight

Researchers found almost 90% of early universe galaxies had glowing gas, triggering intense star formation. The James Webb Space Telescope provided unprecedented clarity to study these infant galaxies, revealing their role in shaping the Universe.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D (ASTRO 3D)·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

Parkinson's: New hope when treatment options seem exhausted

Researchers found that changing treatment can lead to significant improvement in mobility and quality of life for patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. A nationwide registry is planned to develop scientifically sound guidelines for combination therapies.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNeurology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 6, 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.

Decarbonizing light-duty transportation in the US: U-M study reveals strategies to achieve goal

A University of Michigan study found that meeting the 50% electric vehicle sales target by 2030 is possible, but not just through increased EV sales. The study suggests implementing additional strategies such as reducing vehicle production emissions and promoting walkable, bikeable cities to accelerate emission reduction. By 2035, a 45...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2023

Study shines light on the health of American moms in the year after birth

A recent study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that approximately 1 in 5 mothers delayed or forgoed needed care in the postpartum year. Medicaid beneficiaries reported lower health care use and higher social needs, such as food insecurity and intimate partner violence.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 6, 2023

Antibiotic prescribing in outpatient telemedicine

A new report highlights the need for improved antibiotic stewardship in outpatient telemedicine settings, where up to 28% of antibiotics are prescribed unnecessarily. The study's findings suggest that incorporating CDC core elements can optimize antibiotic use and reduce adverse events.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTelemedicine and e-Health·TypeCase study·DateNov 6, 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.

Two fins are better than one: Fish synchronize tail fins to save energy

Researchers from Tohoku University developed a model that simulates fish tail fin motion and reveals the underlying mechanisms behind synchronized swimming. The study found that synchronizing fin movements reduces energy dissipation, but the optimal timing may not always lead to conservation of energy.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 6, 2023

European wildcats avoided introduced domestic cats for 2,000 years

Research reveals that European wildcats and domestic cats generally avoided mating for 2,000 years after domestic cat introduction. However, rates of interbreeding rose rapidly around 50 years ago in Scotland, likely due to dwindling wildcat populations and habitat loss.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

Location of strong sense of discomfort in brain found

A new neural circuit has been discovered in the brain that produces a strong sense of discomfort when activated. The study found that the subthalamic nucleus, which controls voluntary movements, also plays a role in the development of depression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2023

Want the secret to less painful belly flops? These researchers have the answer.

A Brown University research team investigated belly flop mechanics, finding that flexible impactors can sometimes increase the maximum impact force on the body, contradicting conventional thinking. The study's findings have implications for naval and marine engineering applications.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 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.

High-performance surface enhanced raman scattering substrate proposed based on 2H-TaS2 and single-atom-layer gold clusters

Researchers have proposed a novel SERS substrate by intercalating single-atom-layer gold clusters into bilayer 2H-TaS2, achieving two orders of magnitude enhancement. The team found that the d-orbital electrons on the Au surface couple with neighboring 2H-TaS2, creating a strong local electromagnetic field.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateNov 6, 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 in JAMA Cardiology finds coating on aspirin does not impact effectiveness or safety for cardiovascular patients

A recent study in JAMA Cardiology analyzed data from 15,000 patients and found that enteric coating on aspirin does not change its effectiveness or safety for secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. The study suggests that patients can choose the aspirin formulation that suits them best.

SourceOchsner Health System·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 6, 2023

Emergency departments saw firearm injuries in children double during pandemic

Pediatric emergency department visits for firearm injuries doubled during the pandemic, with deaths from firearms among children and adolescents doubling to 6% of ED visits. This increase was seen across socioeconomic groups, highlighting the need for evidence-based policy solutions to tackle firearm violence.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 6, 2023

Social media giants send mixed signals on muscle-building supplements content

A new study found that social media platforms restrict user-generated content and advertising related to illegal muscle-building drugs but offer few restrictions on legal dietary supplements. This has raised concerns about the potential negative effects of these products on young people's health and behavior.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateNov 6, 2023

A blood test shows MS worsening 1 to 2 years before it happens

Researchers found that patients with elevated NfL levels had a 91% higher risk of worsening disability with relapse within a year, and a 49% higher risk without relapse nearly two years later. The study suggests that interventions may prevent worsening symptoms by targeting nerve cell death.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateNov 6, 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.

Research team discovers new role of cerebellum in coordinating the brain network essential for social recognition memory

A research team at the University of Minnesota Medical School has identified the cerebellum as a critical component in coordinating brain networks essential for social recognition memory. This discovery holds promise for the development of targeted therapies for neurodegenerative disorders, which often feature loss of recognition memory.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2023

Key Medicare payment model fails to improve mental health

A nationwide Medicare program aimed at promoting better healthcare and reducing costs by tying payments to quality and cost outcomes has shown no improvement in mental health care. The study found that patients with depression or anxiety received inadequate treatment, with those in accountable care organizations getting even less care.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

French love letters confiscated by Britain finally read after 265 years

A team of researchers from Cambridge University has decoded over 100 French love letters written in the 18th century, revealing universal human experiences and emotional struggles. The letters were sent to sailors on a ship captured by Britain during the Seven Years' War, but never reached their recipients.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAnnales Histoire Sciences Sociales·DateNov 6, 2023

STEM Career Days boost high school students’ career aspirations in STEM fields, MU study finds

A new MU study shows that high school students who attended college-run STEM Career Days were far more likely to have STEM-related career aspirations than those who did not attend. The study highlights the benefits of introducing high school students to STEM opportunities and can help increase diversity in the STEM workforce.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Science Education·TypeSurvey·DateNov 6, 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.

NIH study validates new scale for measuring pandemic-related traumatic stress in children and adults

The Pandemic-related Traumatic Stress Scale (PTSS) measures stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic and identifies those with higher levels of stress. The study found caregivers had the highest PTSS scores, followed by adolescents, pregnant or postpartum individuals, and children.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalPsychological Assessment·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 2023

Patients more likely to lose weight if physicians offer advice using optimistic tone

A study found that physicians who presented treatments for obesity as good news and an opportunity were more successful in helping patients lose weight. Patients who received counseling with a positive and optimistic tone had significantly higher weight loss outcomes compared to those who received neutral or negative advice.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateNov 6, 2023

Keeping an eye on the regions when it comes to climate change

Researchers found that climate models are accurate at simulating global temperature trends but struggle to capture regional variations, particularly over long periods. This disparity has significant implications for planning and implementing climate adaptation measures.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 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.

Women stroke survivors believe they will receive worse care in the emergency room

A national study of approximately 3,500 women found that those with a history of stroke are more likely to believe they won't receive adequate emergency care due to their gender and race. This perception may lead to delays in treatment for stroke patients, highlighting the need for improved healthcare equity.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalStroke·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 6, 2023

Marijuana use linked with increased risk of heart attack, heart failure

Two preliminary studies presented at American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023 found a potential association between regular marijuana use and an increased risk of heart failure, heart attack, and stroke. Daily marijuana use was associated with incident heart failure in a study involving over 150,000 adults in the US.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 6, 2023

City and highway lights threaten mountain lion habitats

A new study found that mountain lions avoid areas with artificial light, even during the day, which can impact their habitat selection and distribution. The research adds to concerns about the species' extinction within decades due to human activities.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 6, 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.

Novel framework promotes efficient electromagnetic wave absorption

Researchers developed a new biomimetic metal organic framework (Bio-MOF) that exhibits efficient absorption of electromagnetic waves. The Bio-MOF, called BSA@Mil-100, demonstrated significant improvements in microwave absorption performance compared to traditional materials.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalSmall·DateNov 6, 2023

Researchers use AI to predict challenging behaviors common in profound autism

A study found that gastrointestinal and sleep issues may be connected to self-injury and aggression in adolescents diagnosed with profound autism. The researchers discovered a possible connection between these health issues and future challenging behaviors, predicting next-day behavior with over 80% accuracy.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalJournal of Personalized Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 6, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New model adds human reactions to flood risk assessment

A new land change model simulates interactions between urban growth, increased flooding, and human adaptation, offering deeper insights into adaptive capacities and identifying communities with limited resources. The model reduces projected developed land exposed to flooding by 5-24% depending on flood hazard zone.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 2023

A joint research team from South Korea and the United States has identified a new gene classification system for gastric cancer

A joint research team from South Korea and the US has developed a new genetic classification system for gastric cancer, identifying six consensual genomic subtypes (CGSs) with distinct characteristics. The study suggests potential treatments for each subtype, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 6, 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.

We can save lives and millions with less nitrate in drinking water

A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen finds that reducing nitrate levels in Danish drinking water could avoid 127 cases of colorectal cancer annually and save $300 million a year. Implementing stricter nitrate limits, such as lowering the maximum standard to 4 mg/L, can result in an additional $138 million saved.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateNov 6, 2023

Researchers reveal true crabs’ epic ancient odyssey from sea to land and back again

Researchers discovered that true crabs have left the marine environment up to 17 times over the past 100 million years, with most species able to survive in semi-terrestrial habitats. The study's findings provide insights into convergent evolution and the adaptation of crabs to life on land.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalSystematic Biology·DateNov 6, 2023

450-million-year-old organism finds new life in Softbotics

Researchers have successfully engineered a soft robotic replica of a 450-million-year-old marine organism, pleurocystitid, to better understand its biomechanical factors and locomotion. The study introduces the field of Paleobionics, which uses Softbotics to explore evolution and animal design.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 6, 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.

Zinc-doped prussian blue nanozyme serve as all in one copper sensor

Researchers developed an all-in-one zinc-doped Prussian blue nanozyme to capture, separate, and detect copper ions in complicated matrices with high accuracy. The nanozyme exhibited a positive correlation with copper levels due to enhanced catalase-like activity.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalSmall·DateNov 6, 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.

Plants' ingenious defence against mutational damage

Researchers discovered plants spread out inherited mutations through random differences between offspring, aiding in crop yield and disease resistance. This process, known as segregation, relies on the plant's ability to generate randomness.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 6, 2023

Rewarding women more like men could reduce wage gap

A new study suggests that rewarding women for their work in computer science similar to what men receive could help reduce the gender wage gap. According to researchers, controlling for other factors, women working in CS jobs earn 91 cents for every dollar a man makes.

SourceCornell University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 6, 2023

Energy transition: A super-model to guide policy makers

A UNIGE team has developed a super-model to simulate the spread of three green technologies in Swiss municipalities by 2050. The results show that Switzerland is unlikely to achieve zero net carbon emissions by 2050 without significant policy changes, highlighting the need for increased efforts and updated policies.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeNews article·DateNov 6, 2023

Food waste prevention in Europe can generate major footprint savings

Researchers estimate that halving Europe's food loss and waste can save 51 million tonnes CO2 equivalents, 6% agricultural land use, and 7% water consumption. Monitoring and reporting of food loss and waste is crucial for policy intervention to prevent food loss and waste.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 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.

Inexpensive water-treatment monitoring process powered by machine learning

Researchers developed a gradient boosting-assisted machine learning model to predict free chlorine residual concentrations in drinking water treatment plants. The model demonstrated accurate predictions from cost-effective monitoring data and identified key influencing parameters.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2023

Video technology could transform how scientists monitor changes in species evolution and development

Researchers have made a breakthrough in studying species evolution by using robotic video microscopes and computer vision to measure embryo characteristics. The study found huge changes in an embryo's observable traits before and after developmental events, suggesting that measuring timings of development is just the tip of the iceberg.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 6, 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.

UMD researchers developed a nasal vaccine that prevents COVID in preclinical studies

A team of University of Maryland researchers developed a nasal spray vaccine that delivers the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein into cells of the airway, triggering an immune response that significantly reduced infection and spread of COVID-19. The technology can be adapted to induce immunity to other respiratory illnesses.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 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.

Major study validates Owkin’s best in class AI diagnostic for colorectal cancer biomarker aimed at optimizing patient access to immunotherapy

A recent study published in Nature Communications validates MSIntuit CRC, an AI-driven digital pathology diagnostic, as a reliable pre-screening tool for colorectal cancer. The diagnostic accurately rules out nearly 50% of MSS patients while correctly classifying over 96% of MSI patients.

SourceOwkin, Inc.·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 6, 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.

New research reveals an advanced form of meditation impacts the brain and is linked to aspects of well-being

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital used ultra-high field functional magnetic resonance imaging to study the effects of advanced meditation called jhana on the brain. The study found correlations between brain activity during jhana and aspects of well-being, including attention, joy, and equanimity.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2023

Epigenetic changes are paramount in cancer progression

An international team of researchers analyzed 1.7 million cells from 225 samples across 11 different cancer types, identifying regions in the DNA that are differentially activated or inactivated in a cancer-specific manner. These epigenetic changes create a signature for each tumour and correspond to hallmarks of cancer.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 6, 2023

Experimental pacemaker converts heartbeat energy to recharge battery

Researchers developed a wireless, leadless pacemaker that can partially recharge its battery by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The device harvested approximately 10% of the energy necessary to pace the next beat, paving the way for longer battery life and reduced procedures for younger patients.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 6, 2023

Chronic liver diseases: What new insights are there?

Recent studies have shed light on the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases, highlighting the importance of non-coding RNAs, autophagy, and extrahepatic signalling in their development. Novel therapeutic targets for preventing and treating these devastating diseases are being explored.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateNov 6, 2023

Learning more about how flu strains evolved may help guide future vaccine development – SFU research

Researchers at Simon Fraser University used large phylogenetic trees to identify influenza virus sequences that are likely to circulate in the upcoming season. The study suggests that this approach can help inform vaccine strain selection, with moderate effectiveness in detecting future strains.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 6, 2023

Physicists overturn common assumptions regarding brain activity

New experiments by Bar-Ilan University researchers suggest dendritic trees, not neuronal somas, are responsible for many brain features. This reevaluation could impact research on degenerative diseases and the origin of sleep and awake states.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalPhysica A Statistical Mechanics and its Applications·DateNov 6, 2023

The uncharted role of HER2 mutant alleles in breast cancer

A study published in Oncotarget reveals that HER2 mutant alleles play a crucial role in determining treatment response to neratinib and poziotinib. Researchers found that individual HER2 mutant alleles have distinct effects on therapeutic efficacy, suggesting new targets for breast cancer therapy.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 6, 2023

After cardiac arrest, family members need support, too

Research highlights the importance of supporting family members after cardiac arrest, finding that they face significant emotional, physical, and informational challenges. Studies such as TEMPO found that informational resources improve caregiver knowledge and decision-making abilities.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 6, 2023