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Science News Archive April 2024 - Page 23


Page 23 of 41

LIST researcher wins European Research Council (ERC) Advanced Grant

Dr Emmanuel Defay has received an ERC grant to develop highly efficient technology converting waste heat into 100 watts of electrical power. The project aims for a 50% energy efficiency rate, applicable to various industries with high-quality or lower temperature waste heat.

SourceLuxembourg Institute of Science and Technology·DateApr 15, 2024

How Pluto got its heart

Numerical simulations attribute Pluto's 'heart' shape to a giant, slow oblique-angle impact. The study suggests no subsurface ocean on Pluto, contradicting previous theorized explanations.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 15, 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.

Microplastics make their way from the gut to other organs, UNM researchers find

Microplastic particles have been found in the ocean, animals, and tap water, with humans ingesting 5 grams per week. Researchers at UNM exposed mice to microplastics, finding they migrated to organs like liver, kidney, and brain, altering metabolic pathways.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024

Millions of gamers advance biomedical research

Millions of gamers worldwide contribute to reconstructing microbial evolutionary histories using a minigame in Borderlands 3, significantly refining estimates of human gut microbes. This collaboration lays groundwork for improved AI programs and advances knowledge of the microbiome.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 15, 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.

Illuminating the path to hearing recovery

A research team has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the GPR156 receptor protein's role in maintaining auditory function. The study reveals that GPR156 exhibits sustained activity even without external stimuli, highlighting its potential as a target for treating congenital hearing impairments.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 15, 2024

Kidney disease intervention outcomes encouraging, despite null result

The Kidney-CHAMP study found that the intervention helped primary care physicians identify and triage patients with kidney disease, improving patient access to specialists and educational materials. Despite a null result, the study's findings suggest that the framework is scalable and provides equitable access to healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 15, 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.

Real-world data fills knowledge gap to assess treatment options for infants with spinal muscular atrophy, showing improved outcomes

A study in the Journal of Neuromuscular Diseases found that disease-modifying gene therapy treatments improve motor function, bulbar function, and pulmonary function in infants with spinal muscular atrophy. The real-world data from a large patient registry confirms improved safety profiles for early treatment opportunities.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Neuromuscular Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2024

Discovery of organic catalyst could lead to cheaper fuel cells

A team from the University of Virginia has identified an organic molecule that can effectively substitute expensive metal catalysts in fuel-cell technology, potentially leading to cheaper and more sustainable energy solutions. The discovery presents a significant step forward in the search for efficient fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Virginia College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 15, 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.

No two worms are alike

A recent study found that even simple marine polychaete worms, such as Platynereis dumerilii, have unique daily rhythms and behavioral patterns. The researchers discovered that these individual differences can provide an evolutionary edge and increase the resiliency of the species.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 15, 2024

Antibiotics aren’t effective for most lower tract respiratory infections

A large study found that antibiotics provided no measurable impact on cough severity or duration in patients with lower-respiratory tract infections. Advanced lab tests confirmed bacterial and viral infections, but treatment didn't affect resolution time.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2024

Australian media need generative AI policies to help navigate misinformation and disinformation

A new study by RMIT University found that only over a third of media organizations have an image-specific AI policy in place, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines. The research highlights the challenges of navigating generative AI technologies in visual journalism, including algorithmic bias and copyright concerns.

SourceRMIT University·JournalDigital Journalism·TypeSurvey·DateApr 15, 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.

Why do we blink so much?

Researchers from the University of Rochester found that blinking allows brains to process visual information more effectively, providing a new understanding of how humans see. By modulating visual input, blinks reformulate visual signals, enabling better perception of big patterns and overall visual scenes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateApr 15, 2024

Quantum precision: A new kind of resistor

Researchers developed a new measurement method that significantly improves the accuracy of electrical resistance measurements, leveraging the Quantum Anomalous Hall Effect. The method allows for precise measurements at high currents and without an external magnetic field, making it suitable for advanced applications.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024

Evolution's recipe book: How ‘copy paste’ errors cooked up the animal kingdom

A study reveals that gene duplication events hundreds of millions years ago led to the emergence of complex traits such as insect flight and octopus camouflage. These 'copy paste' errors allowed for the specialization of ancestral genes, which were then repurposed for specific tissues and organs.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 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.

Can animals count?

Researchers discovered that rats without prior knowledge of numbers can develop a sense of numbers when trained with sounds representing two or three numbers. The study found that the brain has a specific area for dealing with numbers, which is separate from the processing of magnitude.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024

Aptamer-based theranostics in oncology

Aptamers are being investigated as anticancer drugs and used for targeting therapeutic agents to cancer cells, as well as for detection and imaging of cancer. Recent studies have discussed standard methods for producing aptamers and their potential applications in diagnostics.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateApr 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals AI enhances physician-patient communication

A new study reveals that generative AI can draft empathetic responses to patient messages, reducing burnout among physicians. The tool provides a starting point for physicians to craft thoughtful responses, improving communication quality and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 15, 2024

Researchers identify brain region involved in control of attention

A recent study has linked the subthalamic nucleus to attention control, revealing that this brain region also plays a role in thoughts and impulse control. The findings suggest that deep brain stimulation, used to treat Parkinson's disease, may have adverse effects on attentional processes.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalBrain·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2024

Next-generation treatments hitch a ride into cancer cells

Researchers from Osaka University have discovered a way to deliver antisense oligonucleotides to their targets inside cancer cells by opening specific calcium permeable channels. The new compound, L687, promotes efficient uptake of ASO into cancer cells, suppressing target gene activity and enhancing ASO efficacy.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024
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.

Professor Leith Zakraoui is awarded the 2024 IOF CNS Medal

Professor Leith Zakraoui was awarded the 2024 IOF CNS Medal for his dedicated work in advancing musculoskeletal health at both national and international levels. He has been a key figure in strengthening IOF activities in Africa and promoting education and awareness within the region.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·DateApr 15, 2024

Evidence for reversible oxygen ion movement during electrical pulsing: enabler of the emerging ferroelectricity in binary oxides

Emerging ferroelectricity in binary oxides is enabled by reversible oxygen ion movement during electrical pulsing, offering a new path for non-volatile storage technology solutions. This discovery expands research on conventional ferroelectricity to engineer widely used thin binary oxides.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024

Sarcopenia-related traits, body mass index and ovarian cancer risk: Investigation of causal relationships through multivariable mendelian randomization analyses

A recent study investigated the causal relationships between sarcopenia-related traits, body mass index (BMI), and ovarian cancer risk. The research found that slower usual walking pace was associated with lower ovarian cancer risk, while high appendicular lean mass and high BMI were linked to increased risk. These findings highlight a...

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalBIO Integration·DateApr 15, 2024

How trauma gets 'under the skin'

A University of Michigan study found that childhood traumatic experiences can 'get under the skin' and affect skeletal muscle mitochondria, leading to poorer ATP production and increased risk of aging-related outcomes. The research used muscle tissue samples from participants aged 70+, revealing a link between adverse childhood events ...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 15, 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.

Physical activity reduces stress-related brain activity to lower cardiovascular disease risk

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that physical activity lowers cardiovascular disease risk by reducing stress-related signaling in the brain. Participants who met physical activity recommendations had a 23% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease compared to those who did not.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2024

Association between methylmalonic acid and abdominal aortic calcification in adults

A cross-sectional study analyzed data from 2483 participants and found a significant association between high serum methylmalonic acid levels and abdominal aortic calcification incidence. Logistic regression analysis revealed a 1.38-fold increased risk of AAC in participants with high MMA levels compared to those with low levels.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 15, 2024

Hydrogen recombination found to be most plausible explanation for high levels of energy in stellar superflares

Researchers analyzed 42 superflares using two models and concluded that hydrogen recombination is the most physically plausible explanation for high levels of energy. This model is supported by flare processes described in solar flares, which are well-studied phenomena.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 15, 2024

Parent perceptions of school meals influence student participation in school meal programs

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that parents' perceptions of school meals have a significant influence on their children's participation in meal programs. Parents who viewed school meals positively were more likely to see benefits for their families, such as saving time and money, which...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateApr 15, 2024

Global North energy outsourcing demands more attention

A new study reveals that Global North countries' outsourcing of energy-intensive industrial processes to the Global South leads to greater carbon emissions and environmental damage. The researchers urge both regions to work together to address this issue, promoting energy equity and sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEnergy Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 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.

Study shows key role of physical activity and body mass in lung function growth in childhood

A new study published in Thorax reveals that increased physical activity and higher body mass index can help recover early-life lung function deficits, leading to normal values in adolescence. The study analyzed data from over 1,100 children and adolescents aged 4-18 years, identifying four trajectories of lung function growth.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThorax·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2024

World-first microscopic stiffness probe could revolutionise early cancer diagnosis

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have created a world-first device that can image individual cells' stiffness, potentially catching cancer earlier. The technology uses Brillouin scattering to detect stiffness down to billionths of a meter and could replace traditional biopsies with non-invasive, single-cell imaging.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024

Adverse pregnancy outcomes and long-term mortality in women

A national cohort study of over 2 million Swedish women found that those experiencing five major adverse pregnancy outcomes had significantly higher mortality rates. The study highlights the importance of early preventive evaluation and long-term follow-up for detection and treatment of chronic disorders associated with premature morta...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 15, 2024
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.

Unlocking the secrets of fruit quality: How anthocyanins and acidity shape consumer preferences and market value

A study reveals the intricate relationship between anthocyanin accumulation and acidity in fruits, highlighting the role of transcription factors in their co-regulation. The analysis provides a roadmap for breeders to target specific traits for modification, aiming to enhance fruit marketability.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalFruit Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 15, 2024

Causal associations between the gut microbiome and aortic aneurysm

A new study uses Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relationship between the gut microbiota and aortic aneurysm (AA) risk. The analysis reveals specific microbial taxa with beneficial or detrimental effects on AA risk, including associations with subtypes of AA.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateApr 15, 2024

Civil engineer looks to remedy inequities in traffic safety

Alyssa Ryan's research aims to identify populations most at risk for crash injuries, including factors like location, race, sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Her study combines layered national and state demographic data with injury and fatality data from Emergency Medical Services.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateApr 15, 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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study shows how plants influence Europe’s climate

A study by MLU found that ecosystems with diverse plant mixes can regulate up to 5% of regional climate, while plant traits like leaf thickness affect climate. The research highlights the complex relationship between plants and climate, emphasizing the need for biodiversity in nature conservation.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 15, 2024

Why European colonization drove the blue antelope to extinction

Researchers analyzed a 40-fold high-coverage genome from a historical museum specimen and found no inbreeding or detrimental mutations, indicating the species' ability to adapt to long-term low population size. The study suggests that European colonization was a key factor in the blue antelope's extinction.

SourceUniversity of Potsdam·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 15, 2024

The Lancet: Many people with breast cancer ‘systematically left behind’ due to inaction on inequities and hidden suffering

A new Lancet Commission reveals that many people with breast cancer are being systematically left behind due to inaction on inequities and hidden suffering. The commission highlights the need for better patient support, including improved communication between patients and healthcare professionals.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 15, 2024

Tropical forests can't recover naturally without fruit eating birds

Fruit eating birds play a vital role in forest ecosystems by consuming, excreting, and spreading seeds to allow trees to grow and function. The study found that highly fragmented landscapes restrict bird movement, reducing carbon recovery potential by up to 38 percent.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 15, 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.