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Science News Archive November 2023 - Page 7


Page 7 of 40

Scientists harness flower “super power” to pave the way for new drug treatments

Researchers at the University of Bath have created a novel bacterial system to mass-produce cyclic proteins and peptides, addressing a significant bottleneck in the development of new therapeutic treatments. By harnessing the natural cyclization process from the Oldenlandia flower, they improved heat and chemical stability, as well as ...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

A new way to see the activity inside a living cell

Researchers at MIT have developed an alternative method to study molecular signals in cells, allowing them to track up to seven different molecules simultaneously. The technique uses fluorescent proteins that flicker on and off at different rates, enabling the tracking of specific cellular functions over time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateNov 28, 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.

Can health, lifestyle changes protect elders from Alzheimer's?

A two-year study found that participants who received personalized coaching experienced a modest boost in cognitive testing, measuring a 74% improvement over the non-intervention group. Additionally, improvements were noted between the two groups in measurements of risk factors and quality of life.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 28, 2023

Radiation therapy may be potential heart failure treatment

A study published in Med suggests that low-dose radiation therapy can improve heart function by reducing inflammatory immune cells and scar tissue in the heart. Researchers found improved pumping capacity and increased survival of mice with heart failure after receiving radiation therapy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalMed·DateNov 28, 2023

Macaque trials offer hope in pneumonia vaccine development

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have successfully developed a novel pneumococcal vaccine that demonstrates efficacy in suppressing pneumococcal pneumonia in macaques. The vaccine's design combines proprietary mucosal vaccine technology with pneumococcal surface proteins to cover a wide range of serotypes.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalInflammation and Regeneration·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

Slash-and-burn agriculture can increase forest biodiversity

A study in Belize found that Indigenous farmers' slash-and-burn techniques increased forest plant diversity when used in intermediate-sized farm patches. This contradicts the standard view of slash-and-burn as a cause of deforestation, and highlights the importance of Indigenous knowledge for sustainable agriculture.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 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.

CHOP researchers define seizure burden, developmental outcomes for STXBP1-related disorders

A study by CHOP researchers found that seizure patterns and response to treatment can help determine epilepsy trajectories and developmental outcomes for patients with STXBP1-related disorders. The study identified key treatment windows and outcome measures that will inform the interpretation of clinical trial success.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

Research | Social phobia amid COVID-19 pandemic? You're not alone

A study by Peking University found that COVID-19 prevention measures exacerbated social phobia in Chinese college students, with risk factors including lower GPA, bullying experience, and mobile phone dependence. Protective factors included female gender, postgraduate status, and moderate trust in strangers.

SourcePeking University·JournalNature·DateNov 28, 2023

Personal wealth is associated with health care costs in people with Alzheimer’s disease

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that individuals with higher wealth levels had greater hospital care and medication costs before diagnosis. However, after diagnosis, wealth was associated with lower healthcare costs due to differences in comorbidities among different wealth groups.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateNov 28, 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.

Finnish team of researchers found out the composition of asteroid Phaethon

Researchers from the University of Helsinki found that asteroid Phaethon is composed of olivine, carbonates, iron sulfides, and oxide minerals, matching the spectra of rare CY carbonaceous chondrite meteorites. This discovery explains the formation of gas near the Sun and the subsequent release of dust and gravel into space.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 28, 2023

Bidding adieu to sticky ice, but with a grain of salt

Researchers discovered that impure ice is less sticky than pure ice due to its unique structure and quasi-liquid layer. The study found that slow freezing processes preserve contaminants within the ice, leading to weaker adhesion. This discovery could lead to the design of next-generation winterization techniques.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateNov 28, 2023

Minimalist or maximalist? The life of a microbe a mile underground

Researchers characterized nearly 600 microbial genomes, revealing two types of microbes: minimalists and maximalists. Minimalists share resources with friends, while maximalists can produce energy and transform biomolecules, offering insights into life in the Earth's crust and potential on Mars.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Combined microbiome datasets yield accurate prediction of animal ages

Researchers have combined 14 studies on piglet gut bacteria to uncover common patterns in microbiome development over time. The analysis revealed predictable trajectories and important details at a fine time scale, with an accuracy of 70% in predicting animal age based on microbiomes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 28, 2023

Repairing nerve cells after injury and in chronic disease

Researchers at Salk Institute uncover a mechanism for repairing damaged nerves during peripheral neuropathy, with protein Mitf playing a key role. The findings have the potential to inspire novel therapeutics that bolster repair function and heal peripheral neuropathy.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 28, 2023

Millions of kids in U.S. have inadequate health care coverage

A new study finds that nearly 1 in 5 US children have inadequate health insurance coverage, with commercially insured children showing higher rates of inadequacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant decrease in insurance gaps and out-of-pocket costs for commercially insured children.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateNov 28, 2023

The jigglings and wigglings of atoms reveal key aspects of COVID-19 virulence evolution

A groundbreaking study analyzed the behavior of atoms in COVID-19 proteins to understand its evolution and spread. The research found critical distinctions in mechanical stability among various virus strains, highlighting how these differences contribute to the virus's aggressiveness.

SourceAuburn University Department of Physics·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 27, 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.

Secrecy at Canada's pest management agency must end

Health experts argue that Health Canada's secrecy on pesticide data hinders constructive public debates and allows the agrochemical industry to influence policy. The Canadian Medical Association Journal calls for transparency in data about pesticides, citing a need to address potential health risks and ensure safe use of these products.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 27, 2023

Brain boost: Can a coach help elders at risk for Alzheimer’s?

Researchers at UCSF and Kaiser Permanente Washington found that participants who received personalized coaching experienced a 74% improvement in cognitive testing compared to non-intervention participants. The study also showed improvements in risk factors and quality of life, with modest but significant increases in cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 27, 2023

Revolutionary idea by Lithuanian scientists: recycling cigarette waste to produce green fuel

Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology develop method to treat cigarette butts using pyrolysis, producing oil, char, and gas with real applications in fertilizers, wastewater treatment, energy storage, and biofuels. The process reduces biodiesel production costs by adding triacetin-rich oil as an additive.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalJournal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Understanding charged particles helps physicists simulate element creation in stars

Researchers developed a formula to predict properties of nuclei formed from charged clusters, essential for understanding element formation in stars. The approach simulates low-energy nuclear reactions using numerical lattices and Whittaker functions, enabling accurate calculations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 27, 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.

Revolutionizing cancer treatment through programmable bacteria

A team of researchers from Texas A&M University is developing a low-cost, safe, and controlled cancer treatment using programmable bacteria. The $20 million project aims to create an efficient bacterial therapeutic that can target cancer cells with high precision, reducing side effects and costs.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateNov 27, 2023

Three new articles in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis demonstrate the potential of natural compounds to treat gastrointestinal disorders

Researchers found that 1,8-cineole inhibits inflammatory pathways in the gut, while ginsenoside Rk2 alleviates liver inflammation and restores intestinal barrier function. Another compound, specnuezhenide, modifies gut microbiota and has potential to inhibit colorectal tumor growth.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Hamburg collaboration paves the way to cleaner technologies for industry

A Hamburg collaboration between EMBL Hamburg and TUHH has yielded new insights into a lipid-degrading enzyme from an exotic microbe, which may contribute to the development of more sustainable industrial processes. The findings could help improve chemical processes in various branches of industry.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Doctors whose psychological needs are met is associated with greater well-being in the new digital era

A Canadian study examines how rapid shift to virtual care during COVID-19 pandemic impacts primary care doctors' well-being. The researchers found that basic psychological need satisfaction at work was associated with higher well-being, while controlled motivation towards using virtual care predicted lower well-being.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 27, 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.

Innovative design achieves tenfold better resolution for functional MRI brain imaging

The ultra-high resolution NexGen 7T scanner allows neuroscientists to see functional MRI features 0.4 millimeters across, enabling the study of brain circuitry underlying different diseases with higher spatial resolution. This will help track signals propagating through the brain and reveal underlying causes of developmental disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Methods·DateNov 27, 2023

SMART researchers pave the way for faster and safer T-cell therapy through novel contamination-detection method

A novel contamination-detection method enables faster and safer T-cell therapy production, reducing the risk for patients and speeding up treatment. The method uses cutting-edge technology to identify harmful microorganisms within 24 hours.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 27, 2023

Owner personality and mental wellbeing associated with human–pet attachment

Researchers found that cat and dog owners with lower mental wellbeing scores were more anxiously attached to their pets, while avoidantly attached owners were associated with poor care and impulsiveness in dogs. The study suggests that understanding the attachment bond between owners and pets can help promote wellbeing for both.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournaliScience·DateNov 27, 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.

Wind and solar projects can profit from bitcoin mining

A new study finds that wind and solar projects can generate millions of dollars by leveraging bitcoin mining during the precommercial phase. The research suggests strategic placement of mining farms to maximize productivity, with Texas emerging as a top state for profitability. The authors recommend policy incentives to encourage envir...

SourceCornell University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 27, 2023

Honeybee cluster—not insulation but stressful heat sink

Researchers found that honeybees' cluster behavior is a survival strategy against cold temperatures, not insulation. The study suggests that beekeepers should reconsider their hives' design and materials to reduce heat loss.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 27, 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.

Estimation of unmasked face images based on voice and 3DMM

A team of researchers has introduced a unique method that uses voice data to assist in revealing the covered parts of faces, overcoming challenges to facial recognition systems. Their approach demonstrates significant improvements in recreating critical facial areas like the mouth, nose, and overall face shape.

SourceThe University of Electro-Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 27, 2023

Stronger thigh muscles may prevent knee replacement surgery

Researchers found that a higher ratio of quadriceps to hamstring muscle volume was significantly associated with lower odds of total knee replacement. Training programs that strengthen the quadriceps in relation to the hamstrings may be beneficial for preventing knee replacement surgery.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 27, 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.

No IKAROS, no antibodies

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology and Massachusetts General Hospital mapped the genome to understand how IKAROS controls healthy B cell development. They found that IKAROS solves a big problem in B cell development by bringing together far-away genes through looping, leading to proper expression and antibody production.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Survey finds patients’ coping styles changed during COVID-19 and that stable coping styles can reduce anxiety and depression

Researchers assessed Veterans Affairs participants' coping strategies over three timepoints, finding that stable coping styles are associated with lower levels of anxiety and depression. The majority of the sample (71%) changed their coping style at least once during the study period.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 27, 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.

Seeing cancer’s spread through a computational window

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new computational model called Adaptive Physics Refinement (APR) that can simulate the movement of individual cancer cells across long distances within the entire human body. This approach captures detailed cellular interactions and their effects on cellular trajectory, providing valuable...

SourceDuke University·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

Molecular cooperation at the threshold of life

Amyloids have been found to selectively bind with codon-sized RNA, a crucial step in the emergence of life. These interactions may represent a universal genetic code that unites all living beings, increasing stability and order in an otherwise dilute system.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 27, 2023

Defending your voice against deepfakes

Dr. Ning Zhang's AntiFake tool uses adversarial techniques to make it difficult for AI tools to read voice recordings, preventing synthesis of deceptive speech. The tool has achieved over 95% protection rate against state-of-the-art speech synthesizers and is accessible to diverse populations.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateNov 27, 2023

Alarming trends in cardiovascular health among middle-aged adults

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine reveals a stagnation in cardiovascular health trends among middle-aged adults, with low-income individuals facing higher rates of hypertension and other risk factors. The research highlights the need to address social determinants of health contributing to these disparities.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 27, 2023

Vampire bats make northward flight seeking stable climates

Researchers predict that vampire bats will expand their locations in search of more stable climates, potentially linked to a spillover of rabies. The team's work aims to identify and track the bats by traveling to Colombia to contain the spread.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalEcography·DateNov 27, 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.

Aston University research shows extra tuition on blending letter sounds helps struggling readers

New research at Aston University found that extra practice in blending printed letter sounds can significantly help struggling beginner readers. The study, led by Dr Laura Shapiro, showed that training on both sounding out letters and blending sounds is most beneficial for phonological awareness.

SourceAston University·JournalBritish Journal of Educational Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 27, 2023

Mount Sinai researchers find testosterone hormone therapy for transmasculine individuals is safer than previously thought

Mount Sinai researchers have found that testosterone treatment is safer than previously reported, with a smaller degree of change in hematocrit levels. The study, involving over 6,670 transmasculine patients, suggests that providers can feel more comfortable prescribing testosterone as part of gender-affirming hormone therapy.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateNov 27, 2023

Measuring long-term heart stress dynamics with smartwatch data

Biomedical engineers at Duke University created a new 'digital twins' framework using smartwatch data to capture personalized arterial forces over 700,000 heartbeats. This approach reduces the computational load by simulating tasks in parallel, enabling real-time tracking of cardiovascular disease progression and risk assessment.

SourceDuke University·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 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.

New study sheds light on the link between lipids and cholelithiasis

A new study published in Gut found that higher HDL-C levels are associated with a reduced risk of gallstone formation, while lower LDL-C levels also show an inverse association. The study suggests that these findings could inform personalized risk assessment strategies and potential therapeutic interventions for cholelithiasis prevention.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournalGut·DateNov 27, 2023