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Science News Archive 2024 - Page 12


Page 12 of 484

Prehistoric rock in Japan reveals clues to major ocean anoxic event

Researchers have refined the timing and duration of Ocean Anoxic Event 1a, an extreme environmental disruption that caused significant extinction among plankton. The study determined OAE 1a lasted for just over 1.1 million years, providing valuable insights into Earth's climate and ocean system.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024

World’s only bonobo sanctuary helps orphaned apes overcome trauma to develop social skills and empathy

A study by Durham University found that bonobos orphaned by the illegal trade in bushmeat and pets can develop social abilities despite early life trauma. Researchers observed 83 bonobos at different stages of their lives, finding that female bonobos' social skills increased with age, while males' decreased, similar to wild interactions.

SourceDurham University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2024

Reported use of most drugs among adolescents remained low in 2024

Recent data from the Monitoring the Future Survey show stable and declining trends in substance use among young people, with reported use of most drugs holding steady since 2021. The survey found that adolescents most commonly reported use of alcohol, nicotine vaping, and cannabis, with levels generally declining over the past few years.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·DateDec 17, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

SwRI awarded $26 million to develop NOAA magnetometers

The development of magnetometers by Southwest Research Institute will measure the interplanetary magnetic field carried by the solar wind and provide critical data for NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. The instruments will help mitigate space weather impacts on electrical power grids, satellite communication, and navigation systems.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateDec 17, 2024

Training solar panels to dance with the wind

Researchers developed a unique numerical decision-making framework for solar panel protection against extreme weather conditions. The framework treats individual panels as independent decision-makers, identifying creative solutions to reduce stress and minimize damage during high-wind events.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Physicists ‘bootstrap’ validity of string theory

A team of physicists has validated string theory by developing an innovative mathematical method that points to its inevitability. This breakthrough uses the bootstrap principle to show that string theory is the only consistent answer for scattering amplitudes, bringing researchers closer to understanding the universe.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Researcher defines 'kindness' in healthcare

A researcher has defined kindness in healthcare as a set of actions to help others flourish, informed by empathy or proactively chosen. This definition aims to improve patient safety, experiences, and outcome measures by enhancing communication within healthcare teams and with patients.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalBMJ Leader·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 17, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Resource-rich countries still often invest unsustainably

Research by Charan van Krevel finds that poor investments in resource-rich countries are caused by systemic issues, not just apathy or lack of will. Effective sustainable development is hindered by corporate skimming off profits, leaving little for future generations.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·DateDec 17, 2024

A modified Delphi consensus of the Youth Fitness International Test (YFIT) battery

Researchers from the University of Granada and the Public Health Agency of Canada identified the most important physical fitness tests for children and adolescents, with a degree of scientific agreement exceeding 85%. The top tests include the 20-meter shuttle run test, handgrip strength test, standing long jump test, and body mass index.

SourceJournal of Sport and Health Science·JournalJournal of Sport and Health Science·TypeSurvey·DateDec 17, 2024

The energy return on investment of global agriculture

The global energy return on investment for agriculture increased from .68 to .91 between 1995 and 2019, reflecting improvements in efficiency. However, the ratio has plateaued since 2014, indicating that more energy is required to produce food than it provides in calories.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 17, 2024

Fraunhofer IAF expands technology capabilities for chiplet innovations within the APECS pilot line

The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics is expanding its technology capabilities in chiplet innovations through the APECS pilot line, supported by €4.35 million in funding from Baden-Württemberg. This initiative aims to drive chiplet innovation and increase research and manufacturing capacity for semiconductors in Europe.

SourceFraunhofer Institute for Applied Solid State Physics·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

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 book ties together an improbably effective career in probability

Roman Krzysztofowicz, a professor of systems engineering at the University of Virginia, has written a new book that combines his decades-long research on probabilistic forecasts and optimal decisions. His work builds on his early studies in hydrology and computer programming, which laid the foundation for his later studies in decision ...

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateDec 17, 2024

The longevity factor Foxo3 mediates “unfit” cell elimination to ensure healthy body construction

Researchers from Osaka University found that Foxo3 mediates erroneous cell elimination during vertebrate development, ensuring precise development and cancer prevention. The study identified a specific pathway involving Foxo3, N-cadherin, and reactive oxygen species to eliminate unfit cells with abnormal Shh activity levels.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024

Rubisco's role in food and energy security

Increasing Rubisco, the plant enzyme responsible for capturing atmospheric CO2, can complement existing efforts to enhance yields while research on complex innovations progresses. This approach may offer benefits sooner than other strategies, particularly in conditions with decreased CO2 concentration, such as drought or heat stress.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

UC3M investigates how to improve seat belts with a gender perspective

Researchers at UC3M are conducting a pioneering study on how morphological differences between men and women affect road safety systems, specifically seat belts. The study aims to improve protection for vehicle occupants regardless of gender, as anatomical and behavioural differences may lead to increased risk of injury.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateDec 17, 2024

NIH study finds no significant link between time spent in childcare and young children's mental health, even amid early adversity

A new NIH study has found that spending time in childcare does not significantly affect young children's mental health, even among those facing early adversity. The study followed over 2,000 parent-child pairs and found no link between hours spent in childcare and symptoms of anxiety, depression, or aggression.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Partnership advances targeted therapies for blood cancers

The myeloMATCH program aims to improve precision medicine by matching patients with specific genetic signatures of their disease. Patients receive tailored treatment options based on the unique makeup of their cancer, offering hope for improved outcomes and increased survival rates.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·DateDec 17, 2024

Worsening heat waves pose unique risks to people living with neurodegenerative disease

Worsening heat waves exacerbate symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and dementia due to impaired sweating and blood flow. Doctors can take proactive steps by regularly screening for social isolation, providing resources, and utilizing telemedicine to monitor high-risk patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Pediatric investigation study confirms the safety of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy

A recent study in the Netherlands has found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy is not associated with adverse health outcomes in infants. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,600 participants and found no significant associations between maternal COVID-19 vaccination and neonatal health issues, including breathing difficul...

SourcePediatric Investigation·JournalPediatric Investigation·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2024

Scientists find a vulnerability in antibiotic resistance mechanism

Researchers identified a vulnerability in the bacterial machinery driving antibiotic resistance adaptation, which could lead to new counter-strategies. The study found that a genetic toolbox called integron system plays a crucial role in adapting resistance genes.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 17, 2024

The physics of random stacking: perspectives on stability and chaos

A study by Vincent Denoël explores the stochastic stability of stacks of blocks subjected to hazards, providing crucial insights for engineering and construction. The research reveals two main areas of vulnerability: the base of the stack and an intermediate zone, where hidden instabilities accumulate insidiously.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalInternational Journal of Solids and Structures·DateDec 17, 2024

Most retail choice offers for electricity don’t save consumers money

A recent study found that 72% of retail electricity offers in Ohio's market are above the default price, making them unaffordable for consumers. The study suggests that persistent market failures and lack of transparency hinder consumers from finding cost-effective options.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Critical Infrastructure Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Astrophysics: Mystery of the ‘missing’ binary stars solved

An international team of researchers has found the first binary star in the immediate vicinity of Sgr A* by analyzing individual observations of dust sources. The discovery provides new clues to how young stars form close to the supermassive black hole, solving a long-standing mystery.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2024

IHT cooling pads recognized among the 2025 AE50 award winners

The IHT Cooling Pads, developed by Purdue University and IHT Group, have earned recognition from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) and Resource magazine as 2025 AE50 award winners. The mats utilize advanced water-based cooling technology to tackle heat stress in sows and boars.

SourcePurdue University·DateDec 17, 2024

All observables in nature can be measured with a single constant, the ‘second’

Brazilian researchers claim that in relativistic space-time, time is the fundamental constant that measures all physical quantities, eliminating the need for separate length and mass standards. High-precision clocks are sufficient to describe all quantities, even in Galilean space-time.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 17, 2024

How loss of urban trees affects education outcomes

A study by University of Utah social scientists finds that loss of urban trees leads to reduced test scores and decreased attendance among low-income students, while wealthier schools experience fewer impacts. The research highlights the complex interplay between environmental degradation and social inequities.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Nano drug delivery system heralds safer era for drug development

A team of University of Melbourne researchers has developed a novel drug delivery system composed of metal-biomolecule networks (MBNs), which eliminate the need for toxic drug carriers. The MBNs show antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, potentially increasing success in drug development.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 17, 2024

New discovery by Mizzou scientists redefines magnetism

Researchers Carsten Ullrich and Deepak Singh have discovered a new type of quasiparticle in all magnetic materials, challenging previous understanding of magnetism. This finding could lead to the development of faster, smarter, and more energy-efficient electronics.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateDec 17, 2024

More calories – more consumption: Individuals with and without obesity both prefer high-calories food

A study published in PLOS Biology found that individuals with and without obesity prefer high-calorie foods, regardless of their taste or texture. The researchers used a large group of healthy volunteers to compare food preferences among three groups: individuals with obesity, post-bariatric surgery patients, and non-obese controls.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Gruyère cheese, or a history of the domestication of bacteria

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that bacteria used to produce Gruyère, Emmental, and Sbrinz cheese show signs of ancient domestication. The researchers analyzed genetic and phenotypic characteristics of the bacterial strains over a 50-year period, finding low genetic diversity and high stability of traits specific to...

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Researchers explore carbon capture in fish farms to address climate change

Scientists have developed a model to capture at least 100 million metric tons of CO2 annually from fish farms, potentially offsetting their carbon footprint. The approach, which involves adding iron to increase alkalinity and enhance carbonate saturation levels, could be cost-effective and efficient.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Food·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 17, 2024

Significant advancement made in engineering biology and clean energy

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have created a hybrid nanoreactor that combines natural efficiency with synthetic precision to produce hydrogen, a clean and sustainable energy source. The breakthrough uses carboxysome shells and organic semiconductor materials to harness sunlight and drive hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalACS Catalysis·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Tiny ancient worm sheds big light on evolution mystery

Researchers discover 555-million-year-old worm-like organism, Uncus dzaugisi, in Precambrian rocks of Nilpena Ediacara National Park. This tiny fossil represents the oldest confirmed member of Ecdysozoa and offers direct evidence of early ecdysozan life forms from the Precambrian.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 16, 2024