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Science News for October 17, 2023


Study reveals our European ancestors ate seaweed and freshwater plants

Researchers have found definitive evidence that ancient Europeans ate seaweed and freshwater plants, which were previously considered marginal or non-edible. The study suggests these resources could be reintroduced into modern diets to address health and environmental issues.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2023

Multi-drug resistant strain of E.coli battles bacteria in healthy gut

A new study reveals a multi-drug resistant strain of E.coli, MDR ST131, can outcompete and displace other strains in the human gut. The research provides evidence that certain types of E.coli are more prone to developing antibiotic resistance, posing significant health risks.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Recognizing clinical signs of hyperthyroidism leads to appropriate treatments, reduces adverse impact on health

Researchers from Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine summarize current evidence on hyperthyroidism management, focusing on Graves' disease and toxic nodular disease. The review highlights the importance of recognizing clinical signs and treating underlying causes to minimize health impacts.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 17, 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.

Sleep and stress give clues to understanding epileptic seizures - study

A recent study discovered two subgroups of people with idiopathic generalized epilepsy, one experiencing highest incidence during sleep and the other during daytime. The researchers found that either dynamics of cortisol or sleep stage transition explained most of the observed distributions of epileptiform discharges.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Ushering in the era of light-powered 'multi-level memories'

The new material enables storage and manipulation of electronic states within quantum dots measuring 10 nm or less. By applying light, the resistance changes in a cascading manner depending on the number of light pulses, allowing for division and maintenance of multiple states.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 17, 2023

International team reveals source of largest ever Mars quake

An international team of scientists has discovered that the largest ever Martian quake was caused by immense tectonic forces within Mars' crust, contrary to initial suspicions of a meteorite impact. This groundbreaking study, led by the University of Oxford, reveals that Mars is more seismically active than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 17, 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.

AI models identify biodiversity from animal sounds in tropical rainforests

Researchers used AI models to analyze animal sounds in reforested areas, finding that vocalizing species communities mirror biodiversity recovery. The study suggests potential applications for monitoring biodiversity and could lead to certifications or credits for environmental projects.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unlocking secrets of immune system proteins: A potential path to new treatments

Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to capture detailed images of key receptors, unveiling their interactions with molecules and signaling mechanisms. This study provides significant insights into a crucial receptor family within the immune system, potentially paving the way for innovative treatments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Human Lung Chip leveraged to faithfully model radiation-induced lung injury

Researchers developed a human in vitro model of radiation-induced lung injury, closely mimicking the complexities of the disease. The Human Lung Alveolus Chip recapitulates hallmarks of RILI, including DNA damage, inflammation, and injury to lung cells and blood vessels.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

Mimicking a bird’s sticky spit to create cellulose gels

Using a small bird's nest-making process, researchers developed a nontoxic method for making cellulose gels that can be used in applications such as tunable drug delivery. The process also works with bamboo and other lignin-containing plant fibers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Composites and Hybrid Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

Accounting is facing a labor crisis. Could fraud be part of the solution?

A recent study from the University of Florida suggests that financial fraud may attract more students to major in accounting, rather than deterring them. The research found a 4% increase in the likelihood of majoring in accounting when local financial frauds are covered by the news media during high school years.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Accounting Research·DateOct 17, 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 cancer therapy target stops tumor cells from sharing resources

Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that liver cells use vesicle exchange to share molecules and multiply, a process also found in various types of cancer cells. This mechanism could be a universal driver of resistance to cancer therapies targeting cell proliferation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournaleLife·DateOct 17, 2023

Research finds water quality in Gulf of Mexico improves when adding social costs to carbon emissions

Researchers found that adding a social cost to carbon emissions leads to a significant reduction in fertilizer runoff, resulting in improved water quality and a decrease in the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone. The study suggests that implementing a carbon price can help meet the US commitment to the Paris Accord while improving water quality.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 17, 2023

Harnessing molecular power: electricity generation on the nanoscale

Researchers have developed a molecular energy harvesting device that can capture the natural motion of molecules in a liquid to generate a stable electric current. The device uses piezoelectric material and can be scaled to full-size generators, offering a game-changing clean energy source.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateOct 17, 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.

Ocean Sciences Meeting 2024 press registration now open

The 2024 Ocean Sciences Meeting brings together 5,000 scientists to discuss breaking research and critical issues affecting ocean sustainability. The biennial event will feature an online-only scientific session on Wednesday 21 February.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateOct 17, 2023

Realizing vertical ultraviolet-B semiconductor laser diodes for high optical output

Scientists from Meijo University successfully fabricated vertical AlGaN-based UV-B semiconductor laser diodes with distinct characteristics, operating at room temperature and exhibiting high optical output. The devices overcome existing challenges in fabrication and pave the way for novel manufacturing processes.

SourceMeijo University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 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.

Familiarity breeds contempt for moral failings

New Cornell University research reveals that morality plays a central role in judging individuals within one's own group more harshly than those from other groups. The study found that people are more likely to judge ingroup members who engage in morally wrong behavior, as it threatens the social glue of the community.

SourceCornell University·JournalEuropean Journal of Social Psychology·DateOct 17, 2023

Beyond borders: engaging high school youth internationally in research-based life sciences learning

A new article in OMICS: A Journal of Integrative Biology reports on an international group project that engaged 72 high school students from 32 countries in research-based life sciences learning. The project fostered collaboration, intercultural exchange, and collective problem-solving among participants.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalOMICS A Journal of Integrative Biology·TypeCase study·DateOct 17, 2023

Orchid without bumblebee on island finds wasp, loses self

Researchers found that the orchid Goodyera henryi on Kozu Island is pollinated by an island wasp, leading to hybridization with another orchid species. The study highlights how plants adapt to changing ecological conditions and has implications for understanding plant evolution in response to declining pollinator populations.

SourceKobe University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 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.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology scientists develop deep learning-based biosensing platform to count viral particles better

Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) have developed a deep learning-based biosensing platform called DeepGT, which can accurately quantify nanoscale bioparticles, including viruses. The platform harnesses the advantages of Gires-Tournois biosensors and AI to refine visual artifacts and extract relevant info...

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNano Today·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 2023

Tirzepatide trial shows additional 21.1% weight loss following intensive lifestyle intervention

A phase 3 clinical trial demonstrated tirzepatide's effectiveness in achieving an additional 21.1% weight loss after intensive lifestyle intervention in adults with obesity or overweight comorbidities. Participants who received tirzepatide achieved a total mean weight loss of 26.6%, compared to 3.8% for those on placebo.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 17, 2023

Study reveals health impact of eating disorders

A new UK study finds that people with eating disorders are 2.11 times more likely to report physical multimorbidity. Anxiety, insomnia, and perceived stress are key influencers in this relationship.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia Bulimia and Obesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 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.

Marine mammal longevity study reveals remarkable advances in animal welfare

A new study examines the life expectancy and lifespan equality of four marine mammal species in zoos and aquariums compared to their wild counterparts. The study found that marine mammals live longer in captivity, with a three-fold increase in life expectancy and a decline in deaths in the first year of life.

SourceSpecies360·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

How to help save plants from extinction

A new study published in Conservation Physiology identifies the critical limits of plant function under stress, enabling more effective conservation strategies. By understanding these limits, conservationists can identify vulnerable species and allocate resources more wisely.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalConservation Physiology·DateOct 17, 2023

In 2020, 30% of the Pantanal was burned to cinders by wildfires

A recent study using SENTINEL-2 satellite images estimated burned areas with 96% accuracy, revealing a much larger area affected by wildfires than previously thought. This higher precision will help improve estimates of greenhouse gas emissions and inform fire management decisions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFire·DateOct 17, 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.

Art with DNA – Digitally creating 16 million colors by chemistry

Scientists at the University of Vienna successfully created fluorescent duplexes that can generate any of 16 million colors, surpassing the previous limit of 256 colors. This breakthrough allows for accurate reproduction of digital images on a miniature surface with 24-bit color depth.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 17, 2023

World may have crossed solar power ‘tipping point’

A new study predicts that solar power will dominate the global energy mix by the middle of this century due to rapid innovation in solar technology. However, four barriers, including stable power grids and political resistance, could hamper this transition, highlighting the need for policies to overcome these hurdles.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2023

Climate network analysis helps pinpoint regions at higher risk of extreme weather

Researchers developed a climate network analysis method to explore teleconnections, which describe how climate events in one part affect others worldwide. The study found areas like southeastern Australia and South Africa are significantly affected by these interconnected events, with stronger connections over time.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalChaos An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science·DateOct 17, 2023

Mitochondrial protein plays key role in glioblastoma and therapeutic resistance

Researchers found that mitochondrial protein CHCHD2 is associated with increased tumor growth, invasion, and resistance to chemotherapy in glioblastoma patients. CHCHD2 interacts with mutated EGFR to increase sensitivity to cytotoxic drugs, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalInternational Journal of Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

Chemical additives replace menthol in new ‘non-menthol’ cigarettes

Researchers at Yale University found that new 'non-menthol' cigarettes use synthetic additives like WS-3 to deliver similar cooling sensations as menthol without minty aroma or taste. This threatens to derail existing local and proposed federal menthol bans aimed at curbing smoking.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 17, 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.

Study reveals the complex impacts of the earned income tax credit enhancements on mental and physical health

A comprehensive study found that an enhanced Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) may damage mental health for some single adults without dependent children. The Paycheck Plus Experiment, conducted at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, revealed mixed results between two cities, Atlanta and New York.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateOct 17, 2023

Sustainable smart agriculture with a biodegradable soil moisture sensor

Osaka University researchers create a wirelessly powered, biodegradable soil moisture sensing technology that can be installed in high densities, enabling precision agriculture with minimized land and water use. The system achieves both electronic functionality and biodegradability, allowing for safe disposal of used sensor devices.

SourceOsaka University·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

New recipe for efficient, environmentally friendly battery recycling

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new method for recycling metals from spent electric car batteries using oxalic acid. The method allows for the recovery of 100% of aluminum and 98% of lithium, minimizing waste and utilizing an environmentally friendly ingredient.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

New strategy boosts selective carbon monoxide electrolysis to acetate

Researchers from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics propose a new strategy for CO electrolysis to acetate, achieving high selectivity and efficiency. The study reveals the potential of constructing metal-organic interfaces to tailor reaction microenvironments and selectively produce acetate.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 17, 2023

Critical step made for managing brushtail possums

Researchers have assembled the entire genetic code of the brushtail possum, revealing population diversity, reproduction, and origins. The study's findings provide valuable knowledge for managing the animal's populations in both New Zealand and Australia.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 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.

B12 deficiency: a hidden trigger of inflammation?

A recent study found a compelling link between vitamin B12 deficiency and chronic inflammation, which can lead to various health problems. The research revealed an inverse relationship between vitamin B12 levels and inflammatory markers in humans and mice, suggesting that higher vitamin B12 levels may lower inflammatory markers.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 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.

Subalpine forests in the Northern Rockies are fire resilient—for now

Researchers found that subalpine forests in the Northern Rockies consistently recovered from wildfires over 4,800 years, with lake sediment cores providing a detailed record of past ecosystem responses. The study suggests that these forests are resilient to fire now, but future climate change may alter this resilience.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateOct 17, 2023

Physicists create new form of antenna for radio waves

Researchers at University of Otago have developed a new form of antenna for radio waves using an atomic vapor, providing high sensitivity and broad tunability. The portable design enables efficient measurement of fields over long distances, making it suitable for defence and communications applications.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 17, 2023

Ludwig Cancer Research launches leadership fellows program

The Ludwig Leadership Fellows Program aims to address the loss of young talent from academic science by offering independent research funding, laboratory space, and mentorship. The program provides up to five years of support, including $350,000 per year for research expenses and salary.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·DateOct 17, 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.

Medical curricula should be AI-focused - proposal

A proposed AI-centric medical curriculum aims to educate future healthcare practitioners in digital technology, with a focus on technical concepts, validation, ethics, and appraisal. The curriculum caters to varying student levels, from consumers to developers, promoting interprofessional collaboration and adaptable learning.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2023

Cocoa pods — a source of chocolate, and potentially, flame retardants

Researchers have discovered that high-quality lignin can be extracted from cocoa pod husks and modified to have flame-retardant properties. The team's modified lignin biopolymer charred when heated but did not burn, suggesting its potential as a fire suppressant.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateOct 17, 2023

Public health interventions prevented transmission within BU most SARS-CoV-2 cases

A new study found that public health interventions, including testing, tracing, and quarantine, effectively controlled SARS-CoV-2 transmission within Boston University. The researchers identified only two major outbreaks during the spring 2021 semester, highlighting the effectiveness of systematic intervention strategies in limiting re...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Adults with ADHD are at increased risk for developing dementia

A Rutgers University study of over 100,000 older adults found that adults with ADHD are at a significantly higher risk of developing dementia. The research suggests that ADHD treatment may help mitigate this risk, particularly with psychostimulant medications.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 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.

SEC insider trading rule has loopholes

A recent study by University of Texas at Austin professor Robert Parrino found that the SEC's Rule 10b5-1 has limited effectiveness in limiting insider trading. Despite being widely used, the rule allows CEOs to game the system by canceling trades or using limit orders within the plan.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2023

Miniaturized FSO breakthrough unlocks high-speed wireless communication anywhere

Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a miniaturized FSO system achieving an astonishing 9.16 Gbps bandwidth over 1 km link using readily available commercial fiber transceiver modules. The system enables automatic tracking and precision acquisition, eliminating the need for optical amplification.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateOct 17, 2023

Unlocking nature's silent conversations: Real-time visualization of plant-plant communications through airborne volatiles

Plant researchers visualized real-time plant-plant communication through airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs), revealing a Ca2+ dependent defense response mechanism. The study found that specific VOCs, such as (Z)-3-hexenal and (E)-2-hexenal, induce Ca2+ signals in plants, activating defense responses.

SourceSaitama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 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.

Study examines role of working memory, cognitive functions in English learners learning to write

Researchers found that working memory was the most significant predictor of writing ability among English learner students. Cognitive functions such as phonological awareness and oral language development were also important, but only working memory consistently predicted higher scores in writing.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

New specimen collection system enhances assisted reproductive technologies

A new specimen collection system has been developed to enhance assisted reproductive technologies by providing a simple one-step method for selecting high-quality sperm for ICSI. The system, known as NovaSort, uses a barrier mesh to isolate mobile sperm without damaging their DNA.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalOpen Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

New publication reveals surprising insights into dog sterilization, obesity

A recent scientific publication found that sterilized dogs of different sizes exhibit varying levels of obesity, with small breeds at highest risk and giant breeds at lowest. The study also discovered that the optimal time for spaying/neutering differs by breed size, with young large breeds facing a higher risk of obesity.

SourceMorris Animal Foundation·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·DateOct 17, 2023

UCLA-led team finds a stem-cell derived mechanism that could lead to regenerative therapies for heart damage

A UCLA-led team has identified RBFox1, an RNA splicing regulator, as a key player in promoting human stem cell-derived heart muscle cell maturation. This finding offers a deeper understanding of heart muscle cell development and hints at future therapeutic applications for regenerative therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCirculation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 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.

The dark side of the American lawn

Research in Baltimore metropolitan area finds nitrogen-rich fertilizers on lawns contribute to algal blooms and deoxygenated waters. Many homeowners are unaware of the negative impact of their lawn care practices on local ecosystems.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateOct 17, 2023

Largest US cardiac database shows excellent long-term survival after surgical aortic valve replacement

A study of 42,586 low-risk patients who underwent surgical aortic valve replacement reveals a 5-year survival rate of 93%. The study used the STS National Database and found that eight-year survival was close to 90%. The results provide a benchmark for outcomes in managing aortic valve stenosis.

SourceThe Society of Thoracic Surgeons·JournalThe Annals of Thoracic Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Whaling wiped out far more fin whales than previously thought

A new genomic study reveals that whaling in the 20th century destroyed 99% of the Eastern North Pacific fin whale breeding population, but genetic diversity remains high enough to support conservation efforts. The study's findings highlight the importance of enforcing the international whaling ban to aid fin whale recovery.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2023

New study sheds light on the developmental mechanism of allergic conjunctivitis

Researchers from Juntendo University discovered that pollen shells trigger the rapid formation of goblet cell-associated antigen passages, which enable swift allergen transport to the conjunctiva. The study highlights the complex interplay between sensory nerves and the immune response in allergic conjunctivitis.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 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.

Decontamination method zaps pollutants from soil

A new method developed by Rice University scientists uses a high-temperature electrothermal process to remove multiple pollutants simultaneously, including heavy metals and organic contaminants. The process leaves soil particle size and mineral composition unchanged, while improving water infiltration rate and nutrient availability.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

Genetic risk scores not useful in predicting disease

Researchers found that polygenic risk scores identify only 11% of individuals who develop disease and generate 5% false positives. The scores contribute little health benefit while adding cost and complexity to healthcare systems.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBMJ Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 2023

Baby birds hatch with ability to mimic mom

Researchers found that native wren mothers' calls help their newborns develop distinctive vocalizations for food and bonding. The study, published in pre-print by The American Naturalist, reveals the unique 'B element' call produced by females that is also the nestling's begging call.

SourceFlinders University·JournalThe American Naturalist·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 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.

Smarter CT scans may approach the level of MRI

A new method using deep learning can provide as much information from brain images taken with CT as images captured with MRI, enhancing diagnostic support for conditions like dementia and other brain disorders. The software has been trained on 1,117 people and shows promise in diagnosing normal pressure hydrocephalus.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

First genetic causes of Raynaud’s phenomenon discovered

Scientists identified two genes, ADRA2A and IRX1, that predispose individuals to Raynaud's phenomenon. The genes affect the body's ability to regulate blood vessel constriction, leading to white fingers and toes in response to cold or stress. The study provides new insights into the disease and potential treatment options, including th...

SourceBIH at Charité·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Cracking the code of 2022's unprecedented heatwaves and droughts

A global study sheds light on extreme heat and drought events in 2022, attributing them to circulation patterns, oceanic forcing, and anthropogenic climate change. The research aims to enhance prediction and mitigation capabilities for future extreme weather occurrences.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateOct 17, 2023

Dogs prefer food over toys, according to science

A recent University of Florida study found that nine out of ten dogs chose food over toys in a simulated training experience. Dogs responded more strongly to the food reward and gave up earlier when offered a preferred toy reward.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalAnimals·DateOct 17, 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.

Founder personality could predict start-up success: study

A recent study reveals that start-up founders' core Big Five personality traits significantly differ from the general population and are more important for success than previously thought. Successful entrepreneurs tend to have preferences for variety, novelty, and being the centre of attention, while also exhibiting high activity levels.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 17, 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.

Depression, anxiety common among college students

A recent study from the University of Georgia found that depression rates were significantly higher among students who were not the same race as their peers at predominantly white colleges. First-generation students also experienced higher levels of depression compared to non-first generation students. Investing in diversity, equity, a...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of American College Health·DateOct 17, 2023

What drives obesity - diets high in fat? Carbohydrates? Actually, it’s everything – and fructose is at the center

A new study led by Richard Johnson, MD, suggests that fructose is the key driver of obesity, bringing together long-incompatible theories on dietary causes. Fructose lowers active energy in the body, triggering hunger and food intake, and fatty foods become the major source of calories driving weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalObesity·DateOct 17, 2023

New research suggests why males and females respond differently to social stress

Researchers found that testosterone plays a crucial role in shaping the brain's response to social stress, with mice lacking testosterone exhibiting exaggerated fear responses. The study's findings have implications for understanding human behavior and may help explain why women are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

Setting trans fat limits in Kenya could save thousands of lives and cut costs

The Kenyan government and food industry could save billions USD by implementing trans fat limits, which would also reduce heart disease cases and prevent deaths. Experts urge food manufacturers to prioritize consumer health by removing trans fats from products now.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 17, 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.

Brain connectivity is disrupted in schizophrenia

Researchers found that hierarchical cortical organization is impaired in people with schizophrenia, leading to disruptions in processing stimuli from the external world. This disruption affects secondary processing of sensorimotor-visual gradients, explaining behavioral and clinical symptoms of the disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 17, 2023

Researchers test seafloor fiber optic cable as an earthquake early warning system

A new study demonstrates how unused telecommunications fiber optic cables can be transformed for offshore Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) systems. Researchers used a 50-kilometer cable to sample seismic data at 8,960 channels and achieved an approximate three-second improvement in EEW alert times compared to onshore DAS arrays.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalThe Seismic Record·TypeObservational study·DateOct 17, 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.