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Science News for October 30, 2023


DGIST achieves both efficiency and stability in next-gen solar cells with quantum dot surface stabilization strategy!

A research team at DGIST has developed a new approach to protect the surface of quantum dots using non-polar solvents and covalent ligands, significantly reducing defects and improving efficiency and long-term stability in perovskite quantum dot solar cells. This breakthrough enhances the commercialization of applicable materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateOct 30, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Heat-related cardiovascular deaths in the U.S. may more than double within decades

A new study finds that heat-related cardiovascular deaths may more than double in the US by the middle of the century, with elderly and Black adults being most at risk. The projections suggest that reducing greenhouse gas emissions can mitigate this impact, but infrastructure interventions such as increasing tree cover may also be effe...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateOct 30, 2023

Specific gut bacteria increase risk of severe malaria

Research identifies specific gut bacteria that increase risk of severe malaria in humans and mice, sparking new approaches targeting gut microbiota. The study's findings could lead to prevention strategies for severe malaria-related deaths.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 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.

Trauma-informed training workshops prompt meaningful individual and organizational changes, according to outcomes surveys

A McLean Hospital study found that nearly 600 individuals trained in trauma-informed care reported significant gains in knowledge and improvements to organizational policies. However, the study's findings suggest that lasting changes may require more time and involve larger-scale organizational transformations.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·TypeSurvey·DateOct 30, 2023

Helping robots assess risk

A new project aims to help robots assess risks and make autonomous decisions. The research focuses on quantifying ambiguity in robot perception to improve safety and efficiency.

SourceLehigh University·DateOct 30, 2023

Monitoring nuclear weapons stockpiles with radio waves

A new monitoring system uses radio waves to track changes in a room's nuclear weapons stockpile, providing a secure way to verify compliance with disarmament treaties. The system combines cyber-physical security assessments with cross-system physics to enable new levels of trust in the Internet of Things.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2023

New antibody could target breast cancers

A new antibody created by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers may offer an effective treatment for some breast cancers. The antibody targets the PTPRD enzyme, which is overabundant in certain breast cancers and helps them spread.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 30, 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.

How to protect biocatalysts from oxygen

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum developed a method to increase oxygen stability of [FeFe] hydrogenase enzyme using site-directed mutagenesis, electrochemistry, X-ray crystallography and molecular dynamics simulations. Blockages in dynamic water channels near the H-cluster were found to improve oxygen resistance.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

New jet stream discovered in Jupiter's upper atmosphere

A new jet stream has been discovered in Jupiter's upper atmosphere by the James Webb Space Telescope, showing winds reaching speeds of up to 500 km/h. The discovery provides new insights into the atmospheric dynamics of gas giants and could shed light on global temperature variations.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalNature Astronomy·DateOct 30, 2023

The genetic heritage of the Denisovans may have left its mark on our mental health

A recent study reveals that the Denisovan genetic variant affects zinc regulation and may have provided an evolutionary advantage for our ancestors' adaptation to the cold. This variation has been associated with a greater predisposition to mental health disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety-related conditions.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Drawing a tube of blood could assess ALS risk from environmental toxin exposure

Researchers developed an environmental risk score to assess ALS risk and survival using a blood sample, associating several individual pollutants with disease risk. A mixture of pesticides in the blood significantly increased ALS risk, with those in the highest group having twice the risk as those in the lowest.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 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.

Society for Neuroscience 2023 Education and Outreach Awards

The Society for Neuroscience recognizes five neuroscientists for their innovative approaches to educating the public about neuroscience. Angel Kaur, Christian Bravo-Rivera, and Kelly Lambert are among this year's recipients of the Science Education and Outreach Awards.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 30, 2023

Protein eIF4A emerges as a potential Achilles’ heel for triple-negative breast cancer

Researchers have found that targeting protein eIF4A with the small molecule drug Zotatifin can suppress tumor cell proliferation and remodel the immune microenvironment in triple-negative breast cancer. The promising findings support pursuing clinical trials to assess the potential patient benefits of this approach.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Life sciences assay developments and sustainability progress

The SLAS Technology October 2023 issue focuses on reducing laboratory automation waste through machine learning and novel systems. Researchers adapt technological advancements for life sciences exploration and experimentation, enabling improved biomedical research and development.

SourceSLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening)·JournalSLAS TECHNOLOGY·DateOct 30, 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.

Excessive weight gain during pregnancy can lead to higher risks of death

A study of over 50 years found that excessive weight gain during pregnancy is associated with greater postpartum weight retention and increased risks of pregnancy complications and death. The researchers estimated associations between gestational weight gain and loss and mortality, including all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 30, 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.

Positive messages can mitigate harm from objectified fitness posts

A study by Washington State University found that viewing objectified images of female fitness influencers can negatively impact mental health, especially among younger women. However, a positive message such as 'Love your body' can mitigate this harm and boost self-compassion in the short term.

SourceWashington State University·JournalHealth Communication·DateOct 30, 2023

Women with physical disabilities are less likely to be screened for cervical cancer than women without disabilities

Research by George Mason University found that women with physical disabilities have lower cervical cancer screening rates, highlighting the need for improved access to preventive health services. The study's findings also reveal disparities in screening rates among different types of disabilities.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 30, 2023

Complex data becomes easier to interpret when transformed into music

A team of researchers at Tampere University and Eastern Washington University used weather records to validate the effectiveness of musical characteristics in enhancing data interpretation. The study found that musical sounds can be a powerful complement to traditional data visualization methods.

SourceTampere University·JournalFrontiers·DateOct 30, 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.

Child Development Perspectives Journal Q&A: analyzing the stereotypes of adolescence

Recent research on adolescent stereotypes highlights the importance of avoiding one-size-fits-all assumptions across cultures, instead emphasizing social constructions and cultural variation. The article discusses the findings and their implications for policy and societal change.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development Perspectives·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 30, 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.

Texas lab unlocks keys to alcohol withdrawal headache

A study by University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio researchers found that corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) activates immune cells in the dura membrane under the skull, leading to pain signals. This discovery may lead to the development of a small-molecule drug therapy to inhibit CRF and MrgprB2 interaction.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Can personalized care prevent over screening for colorectal cancer in older adults?

Researchers found that presenting adults between 76 and 85 with personalized information about the benefits and harms of colon cancer screening decreases excess screening. The study involved 431 older adults who received either standard or personalized care, with no significant differences in screening orders between the two groups.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 30, 2023

Largest brain autopsy study of female intimate partner violence decedents reveals brain injury pathology unlike that seen among male contact sports athletes

A large brain autopsy study of women who experienced intimate partner violence found substantial vascular and white matter damage, but no evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The study also revealed significant medical comorbidity, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 30, 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.

Risk of admission and death from COVID-19 low overall, but oldest adults remain vulnerable

A new study found that while most residents in British Columbia had been infected with SARS-CoV-2, older adults remained at highest risk of hospitalization and death due to COVID-19. The researchers estimated that the risk of hospitalization for COVID-19 was about 1 in 30 among adults 80 years and older.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 30, 2023

Intestinal bacteria metabolite promotes capture of antigens by dendritic cells

A team of researchers from Okayama University found that short-chain fatty acids produced by intestinal bacteria trigger elongation of dendrites in dendritic cells, capturing intestinal pathogens and enhancing immune responses. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments targeting dendritic cells to prevent diseases.

SourceOkayama University·JournalFEBS Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 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.

‘Plug and play’ nanoparticles could make it easier to tackle various biological targets

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have created modular nanoparticles that can be tailored for various applications, including targeted drug delivery and neutralizing biological agents. By leveraging a plug-and-play approach, scientists can rapidly modify functional biological nanoparticles with ease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 30, 2023

Roe v. Wade repeal impacts where young women choose to go to college, PSU researcher finds

Research from Portland State University finds that female students are more likely to choose universities in states with upheld abortion rights, potentially affecting future workforces and economies. The study suggests a significant impact on the labor market as young people often live and work in the state they attend college.

SourcePortland State University·JournalEconomics Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 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.

Meta-analysis identifies native priority as a mechanism that supports the restoration of invasion-resistant plant communities

A meta-analysis found that prioritizing native species can increase invasion resistance by over 50% and reduce invasive alien species' performance. High-density seeding of functionally similar or multifunctional seed mixtures is effective in controlling invasive species, with priority effects strengthened by increasing time advantage.

SourceHun-Ren Ökológiai Kutatóközpont·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Cat-ching criminals with DNA from pet hairs

A new method extracts DNA from cat hair, linking suspects and crime scenes, with potential applications in dog cases too. Researchers found a single cat hair contains usable DNA, which can be sequenced for a more powerful link.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalForensic Science·TypeCase study·DateOct 30, 2023

Study of 1,000 selfies helps explain how we use them to communicate

Researchers compiled personal reports and associations from 132 participants to categorize 1,001 self-portraits into 26 categories. Five clusters emerged, including 'aesthetics', 'imagination', and 'trait', which showed a close association with visual language used to communicate different aspects of oneself.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Communication·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 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.

NSF funds holistic approach to help farmers adapt to climate change

The National Science Foundation has awarded $1.6 million to Emory University researchers to develop predictive models for farmers to adapt to climate change in Georgia, Iowa and Ohio. The project aims to create a public online tool to explore possible futures of agriculture at regional and state levels.

SourceEmory University·DateOct 30, 2023

How robots can help find the solar energy of the future

Researchers at Osaka University use a robotic system to automate key experimental processes, accelerating the search for new materials. They evaluate 576 thin-film semiconductor samples using photoabsorption spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and time-resolved microwave conductivity analyses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Microplastics’ shape determines how far they travel in the atmosphere

A Cornell University collaboration developed a model to simulate atmospheric transport of microplastic fibers, revealing flat fibers travel farther and are more prevalent than spherical ones. The research could help attribute sources of microplastic particles and inform management plans.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 30, 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.

UBC Okanagan researchers work to be guardians of the city

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed a gaming strategy to strengthen vital infrastructure against malevolent attacks, aiming to ensure safety, health, and lives during emergencies. By identifying critical roads and intersections, they can reinforce them to minimize disruption.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalAnnals of Operations Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

COVID vaccination in female, male partners does not increase risk of miscarriage

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that COVID-19 vaccination in female and male partners does not increase the risk of miscarriage. In fact, vaccinated individuals had a slightly lower risk of miscarriage compared to unvaccinated individuals. The study analyzed survey data from over 1,800 female participants...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeSurvey·DateOct 30, 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.

Controlling organoids with light

Scientists have developed a way to regulate gene expression in organoids using optogenetics, enabling the observation of cell behavior and development patterns. This breakthrough allows for more accurate reproduction of tissue processes in the petri dish.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

New species of mosasaur named for Norse sea serpent

The new species of mosasaur, named after the Norse sea serpent Jormungandr, is estimated to be around 24 feet long and has a mosaic of features seen in two iconic mosasaurs. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of these aquatic lizards and provides new insights into their relationships with other reptiles.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateOct 30, 2023

Virtual meetings tire people because we're doing them wrong

New research from Aalto University reveals that sleepiness during virtual meetings is caused by mental underload and boredom. Highly engaged individuals stay active even in virtual settings, while those with low work engagement find them tiring.

SourceAalto University·JournalJournal of Occupational Health Psychology·DateOct 30, 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.

Powder engineering adds AI to the mix

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new simulation method using AI to predict powder mixing with high accuracy and low computational costs. This breakthrough enables large-scale and long-duration powder mixing processes, set to enhance product quality and streamline production.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 30, 2023

Landmark menopause toolkit updated to improve assessment and treatment

The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause offers updated guidance on assessing and treating women with menopausal health issues. The toolkit includes new advice on hormone therapies, bone health, and treatment guidelines, aiming to improve care for women globally.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalClimacteric·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 30, 2023

Extreme heat projected to increase cardiovascular deaths

A study predicts that extreme heat will lead to a 2.6-fold increase in cardiovascular-related deaths, with older and Black adults most vulnerable. The projected rise in summer days feeling at least 90 degrees could triple deaths among these populations.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalCirculation·DateOct 30, 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.

Want to achieve your goals? Get angry

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that anger improves people's ability to reach their goals in challenging situations. Anger was associated with increased scores or shorter response times, and even motivated participants to vote in elections.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 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.

Prisons vulnerable to natural disasters, but ill-prepared

A study of 110 Colorado facilities found that 74.5% are at risk of climate-related hazards, including wildfires, heatwaves, and floods. Incarcerated individuals from marginalized communities face added risk due to poor infrastructure and lack of agency.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNatural Hazards Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Resident T cells discovered in lymph nodes

Scientists at the University of Würzburg have observed a new behavior of regulatory T cells, which remain in certain lymph nodes for months and function as local memory banks of the immune system. This discovery could lead to therapeutic applications in allergies and autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Just in time for Halloween: Researchers document the power of 'ghostly encounters' on organizations

Organizational ghosts are admired former leaders who embody an organization's values and identity, continuing to influence members long after they've departed. Researchers found that these ghostly encounters can safeguard organizations from risky decisions and legitimize current leaders.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 2023

Society for Neuroscience 2023 Promotion of Women in Neuroscience Awards

The Society for Neuroscience recognizes six researchers who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women in neuroscience. Karen Froud receives the Bernice Grafstein Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in Mentoring for her dedication to mentoring female neuroscientists. BJ Casey receives the Mika Salpeter Lifetime A...

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 30, 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.

Amazon deforestation linked to long distance climate warming

A new study by researchers at the University of Leeds found that Amazon deforestation causes land surfaces up to 100km away to get warmer. The study analyzed satellite data from 2001 to 2020 and found that regions with more local and regional deforestation warmed by an average of 4.4°C.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

First clinical classification of heart attacks based on tissue damage adopted by Canadian Cardiovascular Society

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has adopted a new classification system for heart attacks based on the extent of tissue damage, which aims to improve patient outcomes by guiding treatment and predicting disease progression. The four-stage classification outlines varying levels of injury following a heart attack.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·DateOct 30, 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.

Virtual cognitively enhanced tai chi program improves cognition and executive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment

A virtual, home-based exercise program using cognitively enriched tai ji quan improved global cognition and reduced walking interference associated with dual tasking in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The intervention also showed favorable improvements in cognition, function, executive function, and working memory.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 30, 2023

Improving deep sleep may prevent dementia, study finds

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that a 1% reduction in deep sleep per year for people over 60 increases dementia risk by 27%. The research suggests that maintaining or enhancing deep sleep could stave off dementia.

SourceMonash University·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Soy expansion in Brazil linked to increase in childhood leukemia deaths

A study by researchers at the University of Illinois found a significant relationship between soy expansion and childhood leukemia deaths in Brazil. Pesticide use in the region has been linked to increased cancer mortality, with an estimated 123 children under 10 dying from ALL associated with pesticide exposure between 2008 and 2019.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 30, 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.

Sustainable and green development of magnesium production technology: an environmental and economic life-cycle perspective

The study analyzes the life cycle of magnesium production processes, examining energy consumption, carbon emissions, and economic aspects. Key findings highlight the importance of sustainable development in reducing environmental impacts and improving economic efficiency.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalCarbon Resources Conversion·TypeCase study·DateOct 30, 2023

UMaine, UVM researchers conduct first-ever study of cultural adaptation to climate change

A team of researchers from UMaine and UVM have conducted the first-ever study of cultural adaptation to climate change in US crops. They found that farmers are already adapting their practices to better match crops to recent changes in climate, with some regions showing significant changes in crop selection.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateOct 30, 2023

Most websites do not publish privacy policies, researchers say

A study by Penn State researchers found that only one-third of online organizations publish their privacy policies, highlighting the need for improvement. The researchers used a large-scale investigation to analyze the availability of privacy policies on millions of websites, revealing significant challenges in compliance.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 30, 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.

Innovative antibody approach targets deep-seated cancer mutations

Researchers at Duke University developed an innovative antibody approach to target and kill tumor-promoting molecules found in cancer cells. The study revealed notable reductions in tumor growth and minimal side effects, making it a promising new treatment option for various types of cancer.

SourceDuke University·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Canine cuddles can comfort equally across all genders

A recent UBC Okanagan study found that canine cuddles have a comparable positive wellness effect across all genders, contradicting previous studies with predominantly female participants. The research suggests that canine-assisted interventions can be an inclusive option for post-secondary mental health and wellness programs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalHuman-Animal Interactions·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 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.

To advance space colonization, WVU research explores 3D printing in microgravity

Researchers from West Virginia University are conducting experiments on 3D printing in microgravity conditions to develop materials for long-term space exploration. They found that a titanium dioxide foam can effectively block UV radiation and purify water, making it suitable for use in space habitats.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateOct 30, 2023

A sustainable alternative to air conditioning

A team of researchers from McGill University, UCLA, and Princeton has found an inexpensive, sustainable way to cool buildings in hot climates using radiative cooling materials. They achieved temperatures several degrees below the ambient temperature, without compromising healthy ventilation air changes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 30, 2023

Shedding light on the paradoxical prognosis for patients with cardiac sarcoidosis, a rare and difficult-to-diagnose inflammatory heart condition

Researchers investigated the paradoxical prognosis of cardiac sarcoidosis, finding that isolated heart condition patients have poorer outcomes due to history of atrial fibrillation and impaired heart function. Steroid treatment responds equally well in both groups.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 30, 2023

Engineers develop an efficient process to make fuel from carbon dioxide

Researchers at MIT and Harvard University have developed an efficient process to convert carbon dioxide into a stable, solid formate fuel that can be used in fuel cells and generate electricity. The new process achieves over 90% conversion efficiency and eliminates the need for toxic and flammable fuels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 30, 2023

Amphibians have one more thing to worry about—mercury—large USGS study shows

A large USGS study assesses methylmercury in adult amphibians, finding it to be a toxic compound that bioaccumulates in animals as they feed. The study's results provide new methods and baseline data for assessing mercury risk in endangered species, including those listed under the Endangered Species Act.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 30, 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.

Attribute augmentation-based label integration for crowdsourcing

A new method, attribute augmentation-based label integration (AALI), enhances crowdsourced label quality by identifying reliable instances and improving the discriminative ability of the original attribute space. Experimental results demonstrate AALI's superiority over state-of-the-art competitors on simulated and real-world datasets.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

One-stop solution for shaping and outlining objects

A team of researchers from POSTECH successfully engineered a dual metalens capable of switching between different imaging modes using a single lens. This innovation enables fast mode-switching and acquisition of high-resolution images for applications such as bio-imaging and cellular reactions.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 30, 2023

Why all languages have words for ‘this’ and ‘that’

Researchers found that all tested languages make the same spatial distinctions using words like 'this' or 'that', based on reachability. This suggests a universal action constraint underlying demonstrative language across cultures.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateOct 30, 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.

Imaging brain injury in former national football league players

A study of 54 former NFL players found increased levels of translocator protein (TSPO) indicating brain injury, as well as lower learning and memory abilities. Further research is needed to understand the persistence and progression of these signs over time.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 30, 2023

New frequency comb can identify molecules in 20-nanosecond snapshots

Researchers have developed a laser-based system that can detect specific molecules with unprecedented accuracy and sensitivity. The new electro-optic comb setup can capture moment-to-moment details of high-speed processes such as hypersonic propulsion and protein folding, opening the door to novel measurements and insights.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2023

Russell studying Black displacement & mobility in Arlington County

The project aims to create a comprehensive database of researched information on Black displacement and mobility in Arlington County. The database will include oral histories, census data, photographs, historic newspapers, and other artifacts, shedding new light on the county's history.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateOct 30, 2023

A wave theory for a neurochemical balance in the brain

Researchers describe traveling waves of acetylcholine in the striatum, revealing a new kind of neurochemical wave. The study proposes a mathematical mechanism by which simultaneous waves of acetylcholine and dopamine arise, maintaining balance in the brain's striatum.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 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.