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Science News Archive April 2024 - Page 31


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Sandia studies subterranean storage of hydrogen

Researchers found that hydrogen can be stored in depleted oil and gas reservoirs without getting stuck, as long as the rock is properly sealed. The study also showed that residual natural gas can be released from the rock into the hydrogen when injected, making it a potentially viable option for seasonal and long-term storage.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 9, 2024

Can large language models replace human participants in some future market research?

A new study published in Marketing Science found that large language models (LLMs) can generate similar outputs to human surveys, with agreement rates between 75%-85%. This means that LLMs can be used to conduct market research for certain product categories, increasing efficiency and potentially reducing costs.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

Bacteria in cancer unmasked

A study published in Cell reveals a detailed catalogue of bacteria living in cancer metastases, including links to therapy efficacy and tumor cell activity. The research provides new insights into how bacteria interact with cancer cells and their surroundings.

SourceNetherlands Cancer Institute·JournalCell·DateApr 9, 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.

Humans can increase biodiversity

Researchers argue that human interaction with nature is more complex than previously thought, suggesting a positive effect on biodiversity. Studies of past human interactions with ecosystems reveal both negative and positive impacts, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of human influence.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Eco-effective cooling: a step forward in sustainable refrigeration

A recent study introduces an optimized Compression-Absorption Cascade Refrigeration Cycle (CACRC) that remarkably reduces electricity consumption and capitalizes on waste heat, setting new benchmarks in refrigeration efficiency and sustainability. The CACRC system, merging Vapor-Compression Refrigeration (VCR) with Absorption Refrigera...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·DateApr 9, 2024

Growth mindset messages can close grade gap for first-generation students

A Washington State University study found that growth mindset emails improved the grades of first-generation students in an introductory science course by an average of a third of a letter grade. The intervention, which included personalized messages and strategies for improvement, helped bridge the gap with continuing-generation stude...

SourceWashington State University·JournalCBE—Life Sciences Education·DateApr 9, 2024

‘Teacher Toads’ can save native animals from toxic cane toads

A landmark study by Macquarie University researchers shows that juvenile 'taster toads' can teach goannas to avoid eating poisonous cane toads, preventing population collapse. Goanna populations increased by up to 140% in areas where the 'taster toad' method was trialled.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalConservation Letters·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

Problem property intervention in Boston reduced crime and disorder

The study found that problem property interventions in Boston reduced crime and disorder at target locations and nearby properties for many years. The program incentivized property owners to manage their properties better or sell them to new owners who could maintain them.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology·DateApr 9, 2024

Do some mysterious bones belong to gigantic ichthyosaurs?

Fossilized bone fragments from Western and Central Europe have been identified as belonging to gigantic ichthyosaurs due to their unique microstructure. The discovery sheds new light on an ongoing debate among paleontologists, suggesting that these massive sea creatures could have reached lengths similar to the modern blue whale.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPeerJ·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 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.

Survival rates after hip or spine fracture worse than for many cancers

A new study found that survival rates after hip or spine fractures are comparable to or worse than those seen in patients with certain types of cancer. The study, which analyzed data from over 100,000 Canadians aged 65 and older, highlights the urgent need for secondary prevention interventions before hospital discharge.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJBMR Plus·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

People with hypothyroidism and type D personality may be more likely to experience poor treatment outcomes

Researchers discovered that people with hypothyroidism are more likely to have a type D personality, which is characterized by pessimism and negative emotions. Those with both conditions experienced high levels of anxiety, depression, and dissatisfaction with treatment, highlighting the need for further research to improve outcomes.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 9, 2024

Breeding more resilient soybeans may come down to test site selection

A new study from the University of Illinois recommends redistributing soybean testing sites to better represent the growing environment and improve crop resilience. The researchers analyzed long-term climate data and records of soybean trials to develop two new sets of maps that would help breeders strategize test site placement.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateApr 9, 2024

A microbial plastic factory for high-quality green plastic

Kobe University researchers develop a bacterial plastic factory that produces highly transparent, biodegradable plastics with improved properties. By blending polylactic acid with ultra-high molecular weight LAHB, they create a material that exhibits all the desired properties.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024
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.

No link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and children’s risk of autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability says large sibling study from Drexel University and Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet

Researchers analyzed data from 2.4 million children born in Sweden to find no evidence linking acetaminophen use during pregnancy to increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. Sibling comparisons controlled for shared genetic and environmental factors, providing reassurance for expectant parents considering medication use.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2024

A natural touch for coastal defense

A new study found that hybrid coastal defenses, which combine natural and hard measures, are more cost-effective and provide higher hazard reduction in low-risk areas. In contrast, soft measures such as restoring or rehabilitating natural ecosystems are also beneficial in terms of environmental benefits.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2024

Cognitive decline may be detected using network analysis, according to Concordia researchers

Concordia researchers use network analysis to study cognitive decline, identifying key variables that predict subtle changes in brain function. Executive function and processing speed are found to be strongly influential, with age affecting cognition differently for those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

SourceConcordia University·JournalCortex·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

High-brightness green InP-based QLEDs enabled by in-situ passivating core surface with zinc myristate

Researchers have developed a method to improve the optoelectronic properties of InP-based QDs, resulting in high-brightness green InP-based QLEDs. The new synthesis strategy uses zinc myristate to protect the core surface from oxidation, leading to improved quantum yields and luminescence performance.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 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.

Understanding the impacts of migration on the Austrian economy

A new study projects the impacts of increased migration on Austria's labor market and economy. The research reveals a positive effect on economic growth but significant variations in unemployment across different cohorts.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalComparative Migration Studies·DateApr 9, 2024

How does China’s Agricultural Green Development promote the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals?

The study found that China's AGD is closely related to 10 of the 17 SDGs, with improvements in agricultural productivity, resource efficiency, and socio-economic benefits. However, challenges remain, including excessive resource inputs and environmental degradation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024

Research examines tweets during Hurricane María to analyze social media use during disasters

A study analyzed over 2,000 tweets before and after Hurricane María made landfall, revealing insights into social media use during disasters. The research identified key categories of messages, including information about the disaster, emotional appeals for help, and solidarity efforts among marginalized communities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Environmental Studies and Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

Floridians’ and Texans’ perceptions of hurricane risk

Residents in Florida and Texas exhibit declining personal risk perception after hurricanes, with average risks decreasing as time passes. However, long-term proactive adaptations are needed to counteract the paradoxical effects of climate change on risk perceptions.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateApr 9, 2024

More synchrony between parents and children not always better

A new study found that mums with insecure attachment traits showed more brain-to-brain synchrony with their children, while fathers and children had stronger brain-to-brain synchrony. The research suggests that high or low synchrony can signal interaction difficulties in families.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalDevelopmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 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.

Impact of climate change on marine life much bigger than previously known

A new analysis method reveals that climate change affects not only survival, metabolism, and skeleton health but also physiology, reproduction, behavior, and physical development in fish and invertebrates. The study suggests up to 100% of biological processes may be affected, with mitigation efforts potentially reducing impacts.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 9, 2024

After being insulted, writing down your feelings on paper then getting rid of it reduces anger

Researchers at Nagoya University discovered that writing down one's reaction to a negative incident on paper and then disposing of it significantly reduces feelings of anger. The study found that participants who threw away the paper experienced a significant decrease in anger levels, while those who kept it saw only a small reduction.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 9, 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.

Researchers at MUSC call for focus on higher stroke risk in women

A new review article highlights the complexities of stroke risk in women, which extends beyond age and includes various modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Women are more sensitive to high blood pressure, and other disorders such as late puberty, early menopause, pregnancy, and hormonal therapy also significantly affect their risk.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2024

Childhood sedentariness causes excessive insulin, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes

A new study found that increased childhood sedentary time is associated with higher blood insulin concentration and a greater risk of excess insulin and insulin resistance. Light physical activity was shown to reduce the risk of excess insulin by 20%, while moderate-to-vigorous physical activity had a smaller effect.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateApr 9, 2024

AACR: Trio of studies highlights promising early results with new cancer therapies and targets

Researchers from MD Anderson Cancer Center present early-phase clinical data demonstrating the efficacy of a new combination therapy, an antibody-drug conjugate, and molecularly selected patients in treating lymphoma and gastric cancers. The studies show promising initial results with improved response rates and overall survival.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 9, 2024

Firearm ownership and support for political violence in the United States

A recent survey study of 12,000 participants found that firearm owners were only moderately more supportive of political violence than nonowners. Firearm owners who always carried firearms in public were more likely to support and engage in political violence, highlighting the need for risk-based prevention efforts.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 9, 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.

An inside look at how plants and mycorrhizal fungi cooperate

Researchers studied the gene expression of plants and mycorrhizal fungi using RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, identifying over 1,000 upregulated genes that could be tuned to optimize this symbiosis. This work offers benefits for addressing climate change by improving soil carbon storage and biofuel feedstocks.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

The surprising connection between male infertility and family cancer risk

Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered a surprising connection between male infertility and an increased risk of certain cancers in families. By analyzing genetic and public health data, the team identified 13 characteristic patterns that cluster similar things together, making it easier to uncover the reason behind a fami...

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateApr 8, 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.

First-of-its-kind integrated dataset enables genes-to-ecosystems research

A new dataset has been released that combines molecular information about the poplar tree microbiome with ecosystem-level processes. The dataset provides detailed information on 27 genetically distinct variants of Populus trichocarpa, a bioenergy crop, and includes data on gene expression, soil chemistry, and microbial diversity.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScientific Data·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

Illinois study identifies atmospheric and economic drivers of global air pollution

A new Illinois study reveals that countries with high production levels emit more air pollutants due to domestic and foreign demand. The researchers found a significant increase in carbon monoxide emissions from China to South Korea, emphasizing the need for global cooperation to address pollution.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEconomic Systems Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2024

Everyday social interactions predict language development in infants

Research from the University of Washington's Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences found that increased neural activity in response to social interaction at 5 months predicted enhanced language development at later ages. The study used magnetoencephalography to monitor infant brain activity during social and nonsocial interactions wi...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 8, 2024

CHLA researchers uncover underlying mechanism driving membranous nephropathy, offering insights into chronic kidney disease in children

A study published in JCI Insight reveals that an unexpected mechanism is responsible for the loss of kidney cells' ability to filter toxins from blood in primary membranous nephropathy. The researchers found that signaling in the C3a/C3aR pathway plays a critical role in disease progression.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 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.

Bringing multidrug-resistant pathogens to their knees

Researchers have developed novel antibiotics based on protein building blocks with fluorous lipid chains to fight resistant pathogens. The compounds were shown to be effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in mouse models, killing bacteria without developing resistance.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

Different means to the same end: How a worm protects its chromosomes

Researchers have identified specific domains within worm proteins that protect chromosome ends, similar to humans but with distinct mechanisms. This discovery provides insight into the universal problem of telomere protection and may aid in understanding human biology.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2024

Pupil contraction indicates hidden cognitive fatigue in prolonged esports play across various skill levels

Researchers found that subjective fatigue did not increase until 2 hours of play, while pupillary constriction occurred at 2 and 3 hours, indicating cognitive fatigue despite varying levels of expertise. This suggests that monitoring pupil constriction could help detect cognitive resource depletion in mentally demanding environments.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateApr 8, 2024

Unnecessary use of beta-blockers after a heart attack

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that half of patients discharged from hospital after a heart attack are treated with beta-blockers unnecessarily. The study shows that these patients have suffered a small heart attack and have retained heart function afterwards.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 8, 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.

Are lab-grown brain tissues ethical? There is no no-brainer answer

Researchers at Hiroshima University explore the ethics of growing brain organoids from human fetal brain cells, highlighting concerns over consciousness, informed consent, and medical applications. The study emphasizes the need for a global regulatory framework to navigate the complex ethical landscape of fetal brain organoid research.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalEMBO Reports·DateApr 8, 2024

More premature babies born following Swedish parental leave policy

A study from Stockholm University found that the Swedish speed premium policy, introduced in 1980, led to a 26% increase in premature birth rates over six years. However, relaxation of the policy to a 30-month window resulted in an 11% decrease in premature birth rates in subsequent years.

SourceStockholm University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

AACR: PARP1-selective inhibitor demonstrates early efficacy in breast cancers with DNA repair defects

A Phase I/II trial led by the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found saruparib effective against HRR-deficient breast cancers, demonstrating a favorable safety profile and high response rate. The drug's low dose-reduction rate compared to approved PARP inhibitors may enable longer treatment duration.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 8, 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.

Dr. Himabindu Vidula is new chair of ACC Board of Governors

Dr. Himabindu Vidula will lead the American College of Cardiology's (ACC) Board of Governors for a one-year term, focusing on membership engagement and community outreach. Her goal is to strengthen how the ACC serves its members and the broader cardiovascular care community.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 8, 2024

Antarctic meteorites threatened by climate warming

A recent study reveals that climate warming is causing the rapid disappearance of Antarctic meteorites, with up to three quarters lost by the end of the century. Scientists estimate that around 300,000 meteorites remain at the surface, but are losing them at a rate of 5,000 per year.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalNature·DateApr 8, 2024

Youths with mood disorders 30 percent less likely to acquire driver’s license than peers

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that teens and young adults with mood disorders are 30% less likely to obtain their driver’s license compared to peers without such disorders. These youths also experienced a slightly elevated risk of crashing, particularly when newly licensed.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2024

How plants adjust their photosynthesis to changing light

Researchers identify key molecular mechanism synchronizing plant reactions to different light conditions. The discovery provides insights into optimizing photosynthesis for increasing crop yields and stress tolerance.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 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.