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Science News for November 8, 2023


Magnetic soft robots are spread like butter

Researchers designed magnetic soft robots using a mixture of magnetic particles and non-Newtonian fluidic soft materials to achieve programmable hardening, controlled adhesion, and flexible deployment. The robots demonstrate enhanced stiffness, output forces, and reconfiguration capabilities for various medical applications.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

New interactive evidence-based mapping tool gives policymakers more insight into highly concentrated cannabis products

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have developed an evidence-based interactive mapping tool to assist policymakers in regulating cannabis products. The tool includes 452 studies on high-concentration THC exposure and health outcomes, providing a public health resource for informed legislation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 8, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gender-neutral HPV vaccination best at preventing cervical cancer

A study published in Cell Host and Microbe found that gender-neutral HPV vaccination is effective in preventing cervical cancer by inducing a stronger herd immunity. The vaccine protects against high-risk HPV types 16 and 18, which cause 70% of all HPV-related cervical cancers, and also provides cross-protection against low-risk types.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2023

Optical thermometry with single crystal

Researchers have developed a new single crystal material that significantly enhances optical thermometry with Yb,Ho:GYTO, offering high sensitivity and rapid response. The material enables non-contact temperature measurement in harsh environments such as intracellular, coalmines, and power stations.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

For epilepsy, yoga may be good for your mind

Researchers found that yoga therapy reduced perceived stigma and improved quality of life in people with epilepsy. Participants who received yoga had a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms, improvements in mindfulness, and more than four times the likelihood of reducing seizure frequency.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 8, 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.

Increasing workplace flexibility associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease

A new study found that workplaces implementing flexible work arrangements can reduce employees' cardiometabolic risk, equivalent to a reduction of 5-10 years in age-related changes. The intervention had no negative impact on productivity and was particularly beneficial for low- and middle-wage workers.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 8, 2023

How animals get their stripes and spots

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have found that diffusiophoresis, a mechanism used in laundry cleaning, may play a role in creating animal patterns. The study suggests that pigment-producing cells are dragged through tissue by chemical agents, forming sharp spots and stripes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 8, 2023

Scientists engineer potent immune cells for ‘off-the-shelf’ cancer immunotherapy

Researchers at UCLA have developed a new method to engineer more powerful immune cells that can potentially be used for 'off-the-shelf' cell therapy to treat challenging cancers. Gamma delta T cells with high expressions of CD16 surface marker exhibited increased ability to recognize and kill cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2023

Boosting beta cells to treat type 2 diabetes

A preclinical study by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers reveals that activating a pathway to promote cell division can expand insulin-producing cells without impairing their function. The study's findings support the concept that beta cell mass can be expanded without compromising function.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 8, 2023

Attention to Wikipedia articles covering events is skewed towards those in high-income countries, with political events and disasters receiving particular focus over cultural and sports events, per analysis of 17,490 articles

A study analyzing 17,490 Wikipedia articles found that articles about high-income countries receive more attention than those from low-income countries. Political events and disasters are disproportionately covered on Wikipedia compared to cultural and sports events.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 8, 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.

Genetics of nearby healthy tissue may help catch lung cancer’s return

A new study suggests that analyzing genetic material from nearby healthy tissue may help predict lung cancer's return after treatment. The study analyzed RNA from tumor cells and adjacent, seemingly normal lung tissue and found that the expression of genes associated with inflammation was especially useful for making predictions.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Purdue sensors measure uric acid levels better than other noninvasive methods

Researchers at Purdue University have developed noninvasive wearable sensors that can measure uric acid levels in human sweat, offering faster and more accurate diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis for conditions like anxiety and hypertension. The sensors, called EPICS, have higher sensitivity and better wearability than traditional sensors.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNano Energy·DateNov 8, 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.

Processing waste corncob into NIR transparent optical biofilter

The researchers fabricated a lignocellulose-based NIR transparent optical biofilter with high near-infrared transmittance and excellent comprehensive stability. The biofilter features ~90% NIR transmittance, ultralow haze, and strong UV-vis light blocking.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Are some children genetically predisposed to poor sleep?

A study of 2,458 children found that genetic predisposition to insomnia affects sleep patterns, including frequent awakenings and difficulty initiating sleep. The research suggests a lifelong 'poor sleeper' trait, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and prevention.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateNov 8, 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.

People who contribute least in crowdsourcing can do the most to improve a public good

Researchers found that rewarding people to contribute to virtual public goods increased the accuracy of ratings and improved their overall quality. Those who contributed the least became more active and provided higher-quality ratings, balancing out lower-rated contributions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Blood clotting risk quickly drops after stopping hormonal contraceptives

A new study suggests that hormonal contraceptives significantly increase the risk of blood clots, but stopping their use can normalize this risk within two to four weeks. After stopping birth control, clotting markers return to normal levels within one to two weeks and nearly completely by week 12.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateNov 8, 2023

Attacking the roots of pancreatic cancer

A new model reveals how a single pool of stem and progenitor cells in the pancreas can give rise to multiple types of pancreatic cancer. The study suggests that understanding the cell from which a cancer arises can help researchers develop therapies tailored to an individual's disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 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.

For 20,000 years, polar bears have been retreating due to rising sea temperatures

A new study reveals that polar bear populations have been declining over the past 20,000 years due to rising sea temperatures, with a 20-40% reduction in population size. The researchers found that even small changes in sea temperature have a significant impact on polar bears.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 2023

Plant lifecycle insights: Big data can predict climate change impact

A new database combines distribution and lifecycle datasets to examine the prevalence of different lifecycles globally. The study found that annuals are expected to benefit from climate change, but their increased presence could be devastating for ecosystems.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 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.

Could willow bark provide our next life-saving antiviral medicine?

Scientists have discovered that willow bark extract has a broad-spectrum antiviral effect against both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, including coronaviruses and enteroviruses. The extract works by attacking the surface of the virus, preventing it from entering cells and reproducing.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Does being a caregiver affect older women’s longevity?

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that caregiving is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes. Caregiving was also linked to reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality. The association did not vary by age, race-ethnicity, or other factors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 8, 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.

Scaling up nano for sustainable manufacturing

Researchers have developed a new self-assembling nanosheet that can create functional and sustainable nanomaterials for various applications. The material is recyclable and can extend the shelf life of consumer products, enabling a sustainable manufacturing approach.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Disturbances in sensory neurons may alter transient pain into chronic pain

A recent study found that transient inflammatory pain causes persistent mitochondrial and metabolic disturbances in sensory neurons, leading to failure in pain resolution. Targeting the cellular redox balance prevents and treats chronic inflammatory pain in rodents.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Anesthesia blocks sensation by cutting off communication within the cortex

Research suggests that consciousness requires synchronized communication across cortical regions; propofol general anesthesia cancels sensory processing by cutting it off. Neural activity in higher-level processing and cognitive regions fails to propagate during anesthesia.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

New study examines long term effectiveness of live shingles vaccine

A new study published in The BMJ found that the live zoster vaccine continues to provide some protection against shingles and its complications ten years after vaccination. The study analyzed data from over 1.5 million adults aged 50 and older, revealing a decline in vaccine effectiveness over time.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 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.

MPFI researcher awarded $1.2 Million from Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

Dr. Vidhya Rangaraju has received a $1.2 million grant from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative to investigate disrupted energy supply in neurons causing cognitive decline in ALS. Her lab will use super-resolution microscopy and biosensors to study metabolic disruptions in ALS.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·DateNov 8, 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.

Age at diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and incident dementia

Earlier onset of atrial fibrillation is associated with an elevated risk of subsequent all-cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia. Monitoring cognitive function among patients with atrial fibrillation, especially those younger than 65 years at diagnosis, is crucial.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 8, 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.

Validating the role of inhibitory interneurons in memory

A newly developed labeling method allows for visualization of intraregional synaptic connections between inhibitory interneurons and excitatory engram cells. Researchers have identified the role of inhibitory interneurons in memory expression, suggesting that they suppress fear expression by inhibiting fear engram cells.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

German Research Foundation renews funding for Research Training Group "Gene Regulation in Evolution" at Mainz University

The German Research Foundation has renewed funding for the Research Training Group 'Gene Regulation in Evolution' at Mainz University, focusing on the role of gene regulation in adaptation and evolution. The program will recruit 13 new doctoral students and continue to support interdisciplinary research and personal development.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateNov 8, 2023

How the antioxidant glutathione keeps mitochondria healthy

Researchers identify protein SLC25A39 as a double-functioned nutrient sensor and transporter for mitochondria, regulating glutathione levels to prevent oxidative stress. The discovery sheds light on the critical role of glutathione in maintaining mitochondrial function.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateNov 8, 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.

‘Double strike’ strategy slows growth of drug-resistant breast cancer

Researchers have found that simultaneously inhibiting two proteins, LOXL2 and BRD4, can help slow the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells. This 'double strike' strategy shows promise in improving the prognosis of this aggressive disease, which is resistant to existing treatments.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Single gene controls Corn Belt weed's resistance to soil-applied herbicide

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a single major gene controlling waterhemp's resistance to S-metolachlor, a widely used soil-applied herbicide. This finding poses a significant challenge for farmers, as it increases the risk of spread and limits effective weed management options.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWeed Science·DateNov 8, 2023

Expert consensus statement defines best practices for integration of lifestyle medicine into primary care settings

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine has published an expert consensus statement defining the implementation of lifestyle medicine in primary care, which aims to achieve optimal health outcomes. The statement emphasizes the importance of a multi-disciplinary team approach and deprescribing medications as essential parts of safe a...

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateNov 8, 2023

How mice choose to eat or to drink

A Stanford University study found that mice resolve conflicts between hunger and thirst through indirect modulation of behavior. The researchers used advanced recording technology to monitor individual neurons in the mouse brain, predicting the animal's choice before it was presented with options.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 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.

Independent monitoring of the WHO pandemic agreement is non-negotiable, experts say

Researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health propose establishing an independent committee to monitor state parties' compliance with the WHO pandemic agreement. The committee would report to a heads of state-level body and share findings publicly to promote accountability and effective implementation.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateNov 8, 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.

Computer models fill critical knowledge gaps to help reduce cancer disparities

Researchers used computer modeling to analyze cancer incidence and mortality rates among diverse populations, confirming the validity of the approach. The studies aimed to address critical public health issues by identifying leverage points to increase equity in cancer burden among Black populations.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 8, 2023

Molecule tested at University of São Paulo, in Brazil, proves able to mitigate heart failure

Researchers at the University of São Paulo have tested a synthetic molecule called AD-9308, which has shown potential in treating heart failure by activating the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2. The study found that the molecule improved mitochondrial filtration, eliminating cellular pollutants and boosting heart function by up to 40%.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 8, 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.

Conversational artificial intelligence/large language model can accurately diagnose and triage health conditions, without introducing racial and ethnic biases

A study published in JMIR Medical Education found that GPT-4 can accurately diagnose and triage health conditions comparable to board-certified physicians. The model's performance does not vary by patient race or ethnicity, providing a promising tool for healthcare systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJMIR Medical Education·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2023

Diabetes drug for prostate cancer? Columbia study provides clarity

Researchers found that metformin restores mitochondrial activity and prevents cancer progression in mice and human prostate cells, particularly those with low NKX3.1 levels. The study suggests metformin could be used to prevent further progression of cancer in patients under active surveillance with low-NKX3.1 tumors.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalEuropean Urology·DateNov 8, 2023

PKU astronomers reveal the formation of dense dwarf galaxy ‘fossils’

An international team of astronomers has identified 106 galaxies with sizes between normal dwarfs and ultra-compact dwarfs in the Virgo Cluster. These 'fossils' provide insight into how extreme galaxies form, suggesting a common origin for ultra-diffuse galaxies and ultra-compact dwarf galaxies.

SourcePeking University·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2023

Researchers identify brain network that is uniquely activated through injection vs. oral drug use

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the 'salience network' in the brain is uniquely activated by intravenous drug use, which may be associated with higher addiction rates and faster relief from withdrawal. This finding could lead to the development of new therapies for substance use disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 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.

Physicists trap electrons in a 3D crystal for the first time

Researchers successfully trapped electrons in a three-dimensional material, creating an electronic flat band that can lead to exotic behavior such as superconductivity. The kagome-inspired geometry of the crystal allows for stable trapping of electrons in all three dimensions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2023

Autism brain states hold the key to unlocking childhood memories

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin discovered that autism-induced maternal immune response alters brain development and prevents infantile amnesia. Memories formed during infancy can be permanently reinstated through light-activated neural pathways in adults.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 8, 2023

New study highlights connection with strawberries, cognition and mood in middle-aged, overweight adults

A new study published in Nutrients shows that daily strawberry consumption for 12 weeks reduced interference in memory and depressive symptoms among middle-aged, overweight adults with self-reported mild cognitive decline. The findings suggest that the anti-inflammatory actions of anthocyanins found in strawberries may be responsible.

SourceWild Hive·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 8, 2023

The metabolism of bacteria under the microscope: new method reveals host-microbe interactions

Researchers at Kiel University developed a new method to study bacteria using microscopy and metabolomics, revealing insights into chemical communication between microbes and their hosts. The method allows for the simultaneous identification of individual bacteria and analysis of metabolites without laboratory cultivation.

SourceKiel University·JournalNature Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 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.

A comparative analysis of two SARS-CoV-2 vaccines: Insights from Korea University College of Medicine

A recent study published in eClinical Medicine found that the GB510/AS03 vaccine elicited a stronger antibody immune response against the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 strain compared to ChAdOx1-S. The vaccine demonstrated robust safety and efficacy, with no significant safety concerns identified.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 8, 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.

Scientists take major step towards completing the world’s first synthetic yeast.

A UK-based team has completed construction of a synthetic chromosome as part of a major international project to build the world's first synthetic yeast genome. The synthetic chromosome allows cells to grow with the same fitness level as natural cells, enabling new applications in medicine, bioenergy, and biotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCell Genomics·DateNov 8, 2023

Yeast with an over half synthetic genome is created in the lab

Researchers successfully combined seven synthetic chromosomes into a single yeast cell, resulting in a strain with more than 50% synthetic DNA. The team's achievement paves the way for engineering biology and understanding the fundamental principles of genome fundamentals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

A thyroxine derivative enhances brain drug delivery

Researchers developed prodrugs that temporarily incorporate thyroxine or a thyroxine-like molecule to enhance brain drug delivery. These prodrugs were efficiently delivered into glial cells via the OATP1C1 transporter, targeting chronic inflammation in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateNov 8, 2023

1 in 25 carries a genotype that is associated with a shortened lifespan

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that 4% of Icelanders carry an actionable genotype associated with increased risk of cardiovascular, cancer, and metabolic diseases. These genotypes can lead to a three-year shorter median survival for carriers, particularly those with cancer-predisposing variants.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 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.

‘Alien’ wasps thriving in tropical forests, study finds

Researchers discovered high biodiversity of Darwin wasps on a mountain in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, with 98 species found. This finding debunks the notion that these wasps thrive only in cooler habitats and highlights the importance of protecting tropical environments.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalInsects·DateNov 8, 2023

Three-dimensional label-free morphology of CD8+ T cells as a sepsis biomarker

Researchers developed an AI model analyzing 3D label-free changes in immune cell structure during healthy conditions, sepsis diagnosis, and recovery. Significant morphological changes were identified, suggesting CD8+ T-cell structures as a valuable complement to traditional diagnostic tools.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateNov 8, 2023

Children's dental health significantly improved using electric toothbrushes

A new study found that electric toothbrushes significantly reduce plaque and gingivitis in young children aged 3-10. The research showed that electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes in reducing these dental issues, with whole mouth plaque reduction increasing by up to 55.7% in younger children.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalInternational Journal of Paediatric Dentistry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 8, 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.

Does cannabis use affect empathy?

Regular cannabis users show a greater understanding of others' emotions, while their brains exhibit stronger connections between regions related to emotional sensing. This study suggests potential therapeutic applications for conditions involving social interaction deficits.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Research·DateNov 8, 2023

New antifungal molecule kills fungi without toxicity in human cells, mice

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new antifungal molecule that targets fungal cells without harming human kidney cells or other tissues. The molecule, dubbed AM-2-19, has shown significant efficacy against various fungal infections in vitro and in vivo studies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

21st century Total Wars will enlist technologies in ways we don’t yet understand, writes Jordan Richard Schoenherr

The Ukraine War is a turning point in modern warfare, as new technologies like AI, drones, and cyberweapons are being used to devastating effect. Researchers like Jordan Richard Schoenherr warn that our understanding of warfare is outdated, and we need to rethink the role of sociotechnical systems in strategic thinking.

SourceConcordia University·JournalIEEE Technology and Society Magazine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 8, 2023

Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease focus of latest clinical practice guideline

The new American Thoracic Society Clinical Practice Guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for treating patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). The guideline recommends using specific immune modulating and antifibrotic medications, such as mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, nintedanib, ...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 8, 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.

AI can map giant icebergs from satellite images 10,000 times faster than humans

Scientists have developed an AI system that accurately maps the surface area and outline of giant icebergs in one-hundredth of a second. This technology surpasses manual interpretation methods, which can take several minutes to delineate an iceberg's outline, and offers insights into their impact on the polar environment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Cryosphere·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 8, 2023

Hodgkin’s lymphoma: Small change, big effect

Researchers have identified a common mutation in the transcription factor IRF4 that drives tumor cell development in Hodgkin's lymphoma. This mutation leads to the activation of disease-relevant genes, and blocking its effects could provide new therapeutic opportunities.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Mathematicians “thread the needle” to improve IVF success rates

Researchers redesigned IVF needles to reduce fluid flow damage to eggs, improving oocyte collection and IVF success rates. The study uses computer models and mathematical simulations to optimize the design, which has been successfully tested in cattle, with plans for human trials.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·DateNov 8, 2023

Temperature increase triggers the viral infection

A study by Lund University researchers mapped the effects of temperature on a virus particle's genetic material, revealing its rapid injection into cells at elevated temperatures. The findings suggest that higher body temperature may increase the risk of infection spread.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 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.

Accurately calculating life expectancy since COVID-19

A new study recalculates US life expectancy during COVID-19, revealing smaller declines than previously thought. The hybrid life expectancy method accounts for pandemic duration, providing a more accurate assessment of the pandemic's impact.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalBiology Methods and Protocols·DateNov 8, 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.

Device 'smells' seawater to discover, detect novel molecules

Researchers developed a waterproof device that captures and enriches dissolved compounds in seawater, revealing diverse elemental compositions and unknown molecular structures, with potential applications for drug discovery and ecosystem health monitoring.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 8, 2023

Head lice evolution mirrors human migration and colonization in the Americas

A new study analyzing lice genetic diversity found that head lice arrived in the Americas twice – once with early human migrants and again during European colonization. This discovery supports existing theories on human migration and provides insights into how lice have evolved alongside humans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 8, 2023

Identifying a silicon transporter to improve the yield of rice

Scientists at Okayama University have identified a membrane transporter, SIET4, in rice leaves that facilitates the localization of silicon. This discovery reveals intricate processes involved in Si deposition, enabling plants to accumulate high levels of silicon and survive environmental stresses.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Artificial bladders shine light on bugs that cause urinary tract infections

Researchers created mini bladders to study bacterial interactions with human bladder tissue, finding that some bacteria form 'pods' to survive treatment. The study suggests a new approach for diagnosing and treating UTIs by identifying how the body responds to different bacteria.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 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.