Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2023 - Page 30


Page 30 of 37

Probing the unimaginable: New data help to understand the nature of aphantasia

A study by Paolo Bartolomeo and Jianghao Liu investigated the nature of aphantasia, finding that individuals with aphantasia have normal perception and memory capabilities but struggle with visual mental imagery. They propose that phenomenal consciousness may play a role in this phenomenon.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalCortex·TypeSurvey·DateSep 8, 2023

Valleytronics is warming up at Brookhaven Lab

Scientists have discovered a method for maintaining valley polarization at room temperature using transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and chiral lead halide perovskites. This breakthrough could lead to the development of devices that store and process information in novel ways without the need for ultra-low temperatures.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Bacteria generate electricity from wastewater

Researchers at EPFL engineered E. coli bacteria to exhibit enhanced extracellular electron transfer, producing electricity while metabolizing organic substrates. The bioengineered E. coli surpassed previous approaches, generating three times more electrical current in various environments, including wastewater from a brewery.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalJoule·DateSep 8, 2023

Study hints at the existence of the closest black holes to Earth in the Hyades star cluster

A team of astrophysicists used simulations to track the motion and evolution of stars in the Hyades cluster, finding that two or three black holes could be present at its center. The study suggests these black holes are still inside the cluster or very close to it, making them the closest ever detected.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2023

Dosage tweaks may hint at undiscovered interactions between medications

Analysis of over 1 million Danish inpatients reveals nearly 4,000 drug pairs linked to increased dosage adjustments and potential harmful interactions. The study suggests previously undiscovered interactions among these pairs, highlighting the importance of considering dosage when evaluating polypharmacy.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Digital Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2023

Distance from clinic influences abortion pill access

A new study by UW Medicine researchers found that women living farther from a medical clinic are more likely to use telemedicine for medication abortion. Multiracial women and those in rural areas were more likely to opt for telehealth services, while Black women were more likely to receive in-clinic care.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Women with PCOS on keto diet may see improvements in fertility

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who follow a keto diet for at least 45 days may experience significant weight loss and improvements in reproductive hormone levels. Lower testosterone levels can also help reduce excess hair growth and other symptoms associated with PCOS.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateSep 7, 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.

Older people may have glaucoma without realizing it

A study by Lena Havstam Johansson found that nearly 5% of 70-year-olds had undiagnosed glaucoma, which damages the optic nerve and affects vision. Those with glaucoma reported poorer quality of life due to impaired vision, leading them to avoid social activities and feel frustrated.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalActa Ophthalmologica·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2023

Genetic tools probe microbial dark matter

Researchers have identified essential genes for the growth of Patescibacteria, a group of tiny microbes that live on larger bacteria. The study provides insights into their unique biology and potential biotechnology applications.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell·DateSep 7, 2023

Lack of evidence hampers progress on corporate-led ecosystem restoration

A Lancaster University-led study found that corporate-led ecosystem restoration projects often fail to report ecological outcomes, invest sufficient funds, or clearly state their aims. The research highlights the need for improved transparency and consistent reporting to ensure the effectiveness of these initiatives.

SourceLancaster University·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2023

Strategies for maintaining nursing presence during telehealth visits

Research highlights ways to blend caring profession into virtual landscape, focusing on pre-visit, visit, and post-visit phases. Key findings emphasize active listening, reflective listening, and maintaining professional appearance for effective communication.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalInternational Journal for Human Caring·DateSep 7, 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.

First device to monitor transplanted organs detects early signs of rejection

A new device developed by Northwestern University researchers can detect temperature irregularities associated with inflammation and other body responses that arise with transplant rejection. This allows for earlier intervention, improving patient outcomes and increasing the odds of preserving donated organs.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

Citrullination: a key player in cancer spread and control

Researchers from Shinshu University identified citrullination as a key mechanism in lung cancer metastasis. A novel CitFbg peptide was developed to block metastatic cell homing and reduce the risk of cancer spread.

SourceShinshu University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

HKUMed endeavored to optimize TKA patients’ postoperative pain relief and functional recovery through a clinical trial

A clinical trial by HKUMed evaluates the effectiveness of a combination of intravenous corticosteroids (IVS) and periarticular corticosteroids (PAS) in TKA patients. The study finds that IVSPAS leads to improved pain relief, functional recovery, and discharge rates compared to individual treatments.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

Mount Sinai scientists unlock secrets of red blood cell transporter, potentially paving the way for new drugs

Researchers at Mount Sinai identified the structure of a red blood cell transporter and how it interacts with drugs. They discovered novel compounds capable of blocking the transporter, potentially leading to new treatments for conditions like hemolytic anemias.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2023

A positive worldview is less associated with privilege than expected

Researchers found no significant association between socioeconomic status, neighborhood safety, health, and gender with positive world views. Surveys showed that certain indicators of privilege—socioeconomic status, neighborhood safety, health, and gender—are much less associated with positive world views than predicted by researchers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Personality·TypeSurvey·DateSep 7, 2023

The timing of fireworks-caused wildfire ignitions during the 4th of July holiday season

Researchers analyzed wildfire data to find that fireworks-caused ignitions are concentrated on tribal lands and in the western U.S., with more ignitions in the week leading up to the 4th of July. The day after the holiday often sees a spike in ignitions, while weekends tend to have fewer wildfires.

SourceAuburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2023

Conservation: Shark ecotourists may have a negative effect on shark behavior

A study published in Scientific Reports found that whale sharks exhibit disturbed behavior patterns when swimmers mimic ecotourist behavior, potentially affecting food availability and reproduction. The findings suggest that shark ecotourism operators should assess shark behavioral states before allowing tourists into the water.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

New at-home test for gingivitis protects oral health

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a new at-home test that uses saliva to detect early signs of gingivitis, the earliest form of gum disease. The device can identify periodontal disease caused by bacteria in saliva, providing an opportunity for consumers to protect their oral health.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalSensors & Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

Moral reasoning displays characteristic patterns in the brain

Researchers found that moral judgments involve distinct brain regions and activity patterns, contradicting the idea of moral monism. The study also revealed differences in brain activity between liberals and conservatives, suggesting that moral foundations can be identified through neural activations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateSep 7, 2023

Sahmyook University researchers identify genes associated with addiction to psychostimulant drugs

Sahmyook University researchers discovered a correlation between methamphetamine-induced behavior and the expression of specific genes in mice models lacking Period 2 gene. They identified 19 genes that were activated only in response to repeated doses of methamphetamine.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalProgress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

NASA’s Swift learns a new trick, spots a snacking black hole

Astronomers using NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory discovered a black hole repeatedly nibbling on a Sun-like star in a distant galaxy. The object was detected using a new method for analyzing data from the satellite's X-ray Telescope, enabling it to adapt to new areas of astrophysics.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 7, 2023

Fiber from crustaceans, insects, mushrooms promotes digestion

A new study found that digesting fiber from crustaceans, insects, and mushrooms in mice engages the immune system, leading to less weight gain, reduced body fat, and a resistance to obesity. The researchers discovered that an active immune response was triggered by chitin digestion, which is insoluble and requires enzymes to break down.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

Early findings suggest clinical and lab-based approach critical to tracking head and neck cancer recurrence

Researchers found that patients with HPV-positive cancers develop recurrent disease significantly later than those that were HPV-negative, and also are more likely to spread to the lungs. A new, highly sensitive blood test has been developed to detect cancer earlier, using a framework for combining routine blood testing and imaging.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalOral Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 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.

3D genome analysis reveals secrets to antibody diversity

Researchers at the Babraham Institute have discovered that the 3D organisation of DNA in B cells allows for genes far away from each other to come together during antibody generation. This finding has implications for understanding why antibody diversity declines with age and suggests potential interventions.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

New stroke treatment in development at UTHSC

Researchers are developing a new treatment for ischemic stroke by targeting the prostaglandin receptor EP2, which could have a wider therapeutic window and improve behavioral outcomes. The potential new treatment has the potential to reduce inflammation and provide protection for neurons after an ischemic stroke.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Health Science Center·DateSep 7, 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.

Blood-brain barrier governs ant behavior by altering hormone levels

Researchers discovered that the blood-brain barrier in carpenter ants produces a hormone-degrading enzyme, Juvenile hormone esterase (Jhe), which controls JH3 hormone levels in the brain, affecting behavior. Manipulating Jhe levels can reprogram ant castes and even change food-seeking behavior in fruit flies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

2022 Hunga-Tonga eruption triggered fast and destructive submarine volcanic flows

The 2022 Hunga Tonga eruption generated an extremely fast-moving and destructive submarine debris flow that severed telecommunication cables and reshaped the surrounding seafloor. The flow traveled over 100 kilometers across the seafloor at speeds of up to 122 km/h, excavating scours and channels into the seabed.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2023

MIT engineers design more powerful RNA vaccines

The new approach boosts immunity by engineering nanoparticles and antigens to stimulate a stronger immune response. The vaccine induces a strong immune response when delivered intranasally, potentially leading to longer-lasting immunity and reduced costs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 7, 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.

Disney princesses can be good for a child’s self-image, UC Davis researchers suggest

A study by UC Davis researchers suggests that children who have a favorite Disney princess with an average body size tend to have higher body esteem and are more open to exploring different types of play. Having a favorite princess with an average body size creates a protective effect, strengthening how confident children feel about th...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPsychology of Popular Media·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2023

Team will study microbes’ effect on climate change

A $2 million NSF-funded study led by the Muscarella Lab will investigate the linkages between microbes and plants in the northern tundra, exploring their role in sweeping climate-induced changes. The research focuses on understanding the interactions between microbes, plants, and the environment to better predict future climate shifts.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateSep 7, 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.

Keeping herpes in check

Researchers have developed a new approach to treating herpes by inhibiting an enzyme that releases newly formed virus particles from infected cells. The inhibitors, made of oligosaccharides, significantly reduce the spread of the virus and may also impede cancer metastasis.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

Cattle on low-protein rations may need amino acid supplement to boost milk yield

A new study suggests that dairy cows fed diets with reduced protein concentrations require an amino acid supplement, such as histidine, to maintain and increase milk production. Histidine supplementation has been shown to increase feed dry matter intake, milk yield, and milk protein concentration in dairy cows.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2023

New test shows promise for detecting hard-to-find cervical cancers

Scientists at Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center have developed a novel HPV test that detects cervical adenocarcinoma and its precursor lesions with high sensitivity. The test assesses methylation levels in cervical tissue samples, offering a more accurate detection method for this common type of cancer.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 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.

Genetic study of blood glucose levels calls for stratified treatment with GLP-1R agonists in type 2 diabetes, reveals the role of the intestine, and impact on lung function

A new genetic study revealed the link between type 2 diabetes, lung disorders, and the gastrointestinal tract. The research suggests that individual responses to GLP-1R agonist drugs depend on DNA variants in the target gene, and high blood sugar levels can directly cause lung complications.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Genetics·DateSep 7, 2023

Post Office Scandal victims suffering from significant PTSD and depression, study shows

Researchers found that wrongly accused Post Office Scandal victims experience high levels of clinically significant post-traumatic stress and depressive symptoms, regardless of conviction outcome. The study highlights the need for mental health support and reliable investigation practices within the criminal justice system.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalLegal and Criminological Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateSep 7, 2023

Developing a less invasive test for inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers have developed a less invasive test for inflammatory bowel disease by analyzing the sugar molecules attached to antibodies. The study found distinct patterns of glycans on immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies between patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which could lead to a simple blood-based diagnostic test.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateSep 7, 2023

Study links epigenetic changes to historic trauma in Alaska Native communities

Researchers found specific epigenetic differences among Alaska Native participants who experienced intense symptoms of distress when reflecting on historic losses. Individuals with strong cultural identity reported better well-being. The study is the result of a close collaboration between scientists and members of two Alaska Native co...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

Unraveling the link between obesity, diabetes, and endotrophin

A groundbreaking study by UNIST researchers reveals that high levels of endotrophin in fat cells disrupt autophagy, leading to inflammation and insulin resistance. Inhibiting ATG7 protein function or neutralizing endotrophin shows promise as a potential treatment for obesity-related metabolic diseases.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalMetabolism·DateSep 7, 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.

They fall more easily for conspiracy theories

A study by Linköping University researchers found that people who believe truth is subjective are more likely to fall for conspiracy theories. These individuals tend to hold on to their beliefs even when faced with contradictory facts, and may find profound messages in nonsense sentences.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·TypeSurvey·DateSep 7, 2023

Are large corporations upholding their conservation promises?

A study of 100 large businesses reveals a lack of transparency in reporting on ecosystem restoration efforts. Despite claiming to carry out restoration projects, many companies fail to report details such as project size, financial information, and ecological outcomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 7, 2023

On the track of elusive neutrinos

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have successfully measured the energy of electrons produced in tritium beta decay, allowing them to set a first upper limit on neutrino mass using 'CRES' technology. The method involves detecting microwave radiation emitted by electrons as they travel in a magnetic field.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

University of Miami upgrades Atmospheric Chemistry Observatory in Barbados

The University of Miami Rosenstiel School has upgraded its Barbados Atmospheric Chemistry Observatory to collect more accurate data on Saharan dust particles affecting the Caribbean region. The observatory now includes state-of-the-art instruments to study dust's impact on clouds, climate and air quality.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·TypeNews article·DateSep 7, 2023