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Science News Archive April 2024 - Page 16


Page 16 of 41

Surprising reversal in quantum systems

Scientists at ETH Zurich create an artificial solid with switched-on interactions using magnetic fields, observing surprising topological effects. The study reveals the ability to transport particles by one lattice site, mimicking a screw's motion, and demonstrates robustness against disorder.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateApr 19, 2024

New UNC-Chapel Hill study examines the increased adoption of they/them pronouns

A new study by UNC-Chapel Hill researcher Jennifer E. Arnold examines how people use 'they/them' pronouns in a spoken storytelling context. The findings show that college-aged speakers are able to adopt and use nonbinary 'they' with ease, suggesting a natural process of language change.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalGlossa Psycholinguistics·DateApr 19, 2024

Lemur’s lament: When one vulnerable species stalks another

Researchers observed a rare instance of lemur predation by a fosa in the Betampona Strict Nature Reserve. The impact of this predation, combined with low reproductive rates and genetic isolation, poses significant threats to the survival of critically endangered lemurs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 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.

New copper-catalyzed C-H activation strategy from Scripps Research

Scripps Research chemists develop a new set of copper-catalyzed reactions for building and modifying pharmaceuticals. The two-mode approach, inspired by human detox enzymes, offers a simple and efficient method for performing dehydrogenations and lactonizations on inexpensive starting compounds.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2024

Scientists trigger mini-earthquakes in the lab

Researchers at the Universiteit van Amsterdam triggered mini-earthquakes in a lab by applying a small seismic wave to a granular material. The study shows that these events can be understood using laboratory-scale frictional experiments, and its findings are relevant for understanding remote earthquake triggering in larger faults.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Surf clams off the coast of Virginia reappear – and rebound

Rutgers scientists found thriving and growing surfclam populations off the coast of Virginia, with characteristics similar to those in New Jersey. The study suggests improved environmental conditions or adaptation may be responsible for the rebound.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·TypeObservational study·DateApr 19, 2024

Baby sharks prefer being closer to shore, show scientists

In a groundbreaking study, scientists found that juvenile great white sharks prefer warm and shallow waters near the shore, often within 1 km of land. This behavior may help them evade predators and optimize growth efficiency in these nurseries.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Toxic chemicals from microplastics can be absorbed through skin

Research found that chemicals present in microplastics can leach into human sweat and be absorbed through the skin, entering the bloodstream. The study used innovative 3D human skin models to demonstrate this process, revealing that up to 8% of the chemical exposed could be taken up by the skin.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEnvironment International·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Technical Trials for Easing the (Cosmological) Tension

A new study has sorted through models attempting to solve the cosmological tension, a discrepancy between two ways of calculating the universe's expansion. Three models that were previously viable solutions were excluded by the new data, while others reduced the tension but not solved it.

SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How reflecting on gratitude received from family can make you a better leader

Research from the University of Florida shows that leaders reflecting on family gratitude experience higher levels of prosocial impact, motivating them to engage in helpful behavior towards employees. This reflection practice can be incorporated into daily routines, promoting a positive work environment.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateApr 19, 2024

The mechanism of SlWRKY80 participating in salt alkali stress through its involvement in JA metabolic pathway

SlWRKY80 plays a crucial role in regulating tomato resistance to saline-alkali stress by positively modulating the JA metabolic pathway. The protein enhances spermidine synthesis and stabilizes Na+/K+ homeostasis, leading to reduced sensitivity to salt alkali stress.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

ORNL researchers win Best Paper award for nickel-based alloy tailoring

Researchers developed a compositionally graded nickel-based alloy for high-temperature applications, outperforming coated materials. The new alloy design reduces environmental degradation and thermal instability, increasing efficiency and lifespan.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

NEC Society Statement on the Watson vs. Mead Johnson Verdict

The Necrotizing Enterocolitis Society has released a statement on the Watson vs Mead Johnson verdict, highlighting the devastating impact of NEC on premature and medically fragile infants. The organization emphasizes the importance of adequate nutrition and protective care practices to prevent NEC.

SourceNecrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 19, 2024

ChatGPT extracts data for ischaemic stroke almost perfectly

Researchers at Universitatsklinikum Bonn found that ChatGPT can correctly extract 94% of data entries from thrombectomy reports without post-processing. The AI outperformed human expertise in this task, suggesting its potential as an alternative to manual data transfer

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalRadiology·DateApr 19, 2024

Jumbo discovery: astronomers offer new model for formation of recently discovered “free-floating” planets

Researchers introduce a new model that suggests dense stellar clusters can eject pairs of giant planets, which remain gravitationally bound to each other as they float through space. This discovery fills a critical gap in our understanding of planetary evolution and challenges prevailing theories of planet formation.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Older adults in Ohio are among the most vulnerable to extreme weather

A recent study found that nearly 1 in 5 older adults in central Ohio report not being prepared for emergencies, with those in lower-income counties facing the greatest challenges. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, such as tax levies and education on climate risks, to protect vulnerable populations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 19, 2024

Mapping plant functional diversity from space: HKU ecologists revolutionize ecosystem monitoring with novel field-satellite integration

Researchers led by Professor Jin Wu at HKU have developed a method to map plant functional traits from space using time-series satellite data. The approach combines vegetation spectroscopy and phenology, providing insights into ecosystem functioning and biodiversity.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 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.

Wayne State researcher aims to improve coding peer review practices

A Wayne State University researcher is working to transform code review tools and workflows to address participants' challenges in understanding and communicating code changes. The goal is to produce high-quality feedback using empirical methods, machine learning, and natural language techniques.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateApr 19, 2024

Realization of an ideal omnidirectional cloak in free space

The team designed a full-parameter omnidirectional planar invisibility cloak composed of two homogeneous materials, achieving omnidirectional impedance matching and zero phase delay. The cloak demonstrated excellent invisibility performance in experimental verification, making it suitable for radar communication and bistatic detection.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 19, 2024

Shoe technology reduces risk of diabetic foot ulcers

Researchers have developed a pressure-alternating shoe insole that provides periods of rest to the soft tissues, thereby reducing the risk of diabetic foot ulcers. This innovative technology aims to mitigate the risk of complications from poor circulation and foot sores.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalThe International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

Which countries are more at risk in the global supply chain?

Researchers analyzed firm-level data from the global supply network, revealing that wealthy nations are only exposed to supply chain disruptions from other high-income countries. Poor and developing nations are disproportionately affected by economic shocks due to their structural embeddedness in their local or national supply chains.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 19, 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.

New compound from blessed thistle promotes functional nerve regeneration

Researchers at University of Cologne discover Cnicin, a plant-based compound that significantly accelerates axon growth in animal models and human cells. This breakthrough has the potential to treat paralysis and neuropathy by enabling nerves to regenerate more quickly.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalPhytomedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024

ACP issues clinical recommendations for newer diabetes treatments

The American College of Physicians recommends adding SGLT-2 and GLP-1 agonists to metformin in adults with Type 2 diabetes for improved cardiovascular outcomes. The guidelines prioritize shared decision-making, considering individual patient characteristics and values.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateApr 19, 2024

Signs of multiple sclerosis show up in blood years before symptoms

Scientists have identified a consistent signature of multiple sclerosis in the blood of patients years before they develop symptoms. The discovery, published in Nature Medicine, could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of the disease, affecting nearly 1 million people in the US.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Compact quantum light processing

Researchers have achieved quantum interference among several single photons using a novel, resource-efficient platform, paving the way for scalable quantum technologies. This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in optical quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 19, 2024

Scientists uncover 95 regions of the genome linked to PTSD

A massive genetic study of over 1.2 million people has pinpointed 95 loci associated with PTSD risk, including 80 previously unknown locations. The study also identified 43 genes that appear to contribute to the development of PTSD, providing new targets for prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024

Obesity-induced cognitive decline: Role of brain oxidation and tocotrienols

Researchers investigate the neuroprotective effects of tocotrienols in alleviating obesity-induced cognitive decline. The study found that T3s treatment improved cognitive function and mitigated oxidative stress in mice fed with a high-fat, high-sucrose diet.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 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.

Coal train pollution increases health risks and disparities

A new study from the University of California, Davis found that coal train pollution has significant health effects disproportionately impacting communities of color and low-income populations. The study estimates that six additional deaths may occur annually among exposed populations under severe scenarios.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 18, 2024

A flexible and efficient DC power converter for sustainable-energy microgrids

A new DC-DC power converter designed by Kobe University team offers superior voltage ratio, system stability, and simplicity, achieving an impressive efficiency of up to 98.3%. The device can efficiently interface with various energy sources, making it suitable for renewable energy integration and electric vehicle applications.

SourceKobe University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Novel material supercharges innovation in electrostatic energy storage

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a novel 2D/3D/2D heterostructure material that can minimize energy loss while preserving ferroelectric material properties. The new structure achieved an energy density up to 19 times higher than commercially available capacitors and efficiency over 90%.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2024

Can bismuth prevent oil leaks – (and save Norwegians billions)?

Researchers have discovered that bismuth alloys can provide a better seal than traditional cement plugs, reducing the risk of leaks and greenhouse gas emissions. The innovative solution has the potential to save Norway billions of dollars in plugging costs, with reduced installation time and no need for rigs.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalSPE Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024

Scientists assess paths toward maintaining BC caribou until habitat recovers

Researchers assess the effectiveness of population-based recovery actions for southern mountain caribou, finding that interventions have stabilized herd numbers but require decades of habitat restoration. The study highlights the importance of evidence-based solutions to support caribou conservation.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalEcological Applications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 18, 2024

A common pathway in the brain that enables addictive drugs to hijack natural reward processing has been identified by Mount Sinai

Researchers have uncovered a mechanism in the brain that allows cocaine and morphine to take over natural reward processing systems. A largely overlapping population of cells respond to both addictive drugs and natural rewards, leading to behavior directed toward drug-seeking and away from natural rewards.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024
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.

Octopus inspires new suction mechanism for robots

A new robotic suction cup mimics the adhesive properties of octopus suckers to grasp complex surfaces like rocks and shells. The device uses a multi-layer soft structure and artificial fluidic system to achieve long-lasting suction with minimal overflow.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024

New urine test has higher diagnostic accuracy for prostate cancer

A new urine test, MyProstateScore 2.0 (MPS2), measures 18 genes associated with prostate cancer and offers higher diagnostic accuracy than existing tests. The test reduces unnecessary prostate biopsies by up to 51% in men with a history of previous negative biopsy.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateApr 18, 2024

An ink for 3D-printing flexible devices without mechanical joints

EPFL researchers develop DNGEs, 3D-printable double network granular elastomers that can vary their mechanical properties. These inks enable the creation of flexible devices with locally changing properties, eliminating the need for cumbersome mechanical joints.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024

Peptides on Interstellar Ice

A research team led by Dr. Serge Krasnokutski has discovered that peptides can form on cosmic dust particles even in the presence of water molecules. The study used a vacuum chamber to replicate interstellar conditions and found that the formation of peptides was slowed down but still occurred.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 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.

Palaeontology: Discovery of new ancient giant snake in India

Researchers have discovered a new species of ancient snake, Vasuki Indicus, which lived around 47 million years ago in India. The snake is estimated to be between 10.9 and 15.2 meters long, making it one of the largest snakes to have ever existed.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 18, 2024

Properties of new materials for microchips can now be measured well

The researchers used an optomechanical methodology to extract the thermal expansion coefficient, specific heat, and thermal conductivity of five different materials, including graphene and ultra-thin silicon membrane. This method provides a route toward improving our understanding of heat transport in the 2D limit.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAPL Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 18, 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.

Solving antibiotic and pesticide resistance with infectious worms

A researcher will study how plants defend themselves against nematode infections, which could lead to novel drugs or antibiotics for humans and livestock. The project aims to increase food security in Africa and Asia by understanding the molecular mechanisms behind plant resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateApr 18, 2024
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.