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Science News Archive April 2024 - Page 32


Page 32 of 41

New study highlights the benefit of touch on mental and physical health

A large-scale analysis of studies reveals that touch substantially improves physical and mental wellbeing, particularly for those with health problems. Non-human touch interventions, such as robot or weighted blanket interactions, also show promise in improving physical wellbeing.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateApr 8, 2024

Prioritizing your phone over your partner affects creativity in the workplace for women

A study by University of Bath researchers found that prioritizing phone use over partner support negatively impacts women's creativity at work. The study analyzed diary entries from 65 full-time couples with children and revealed that women are more adept at translating home support into workplace creativity.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateApr 8, 2024

Advancing real-time 3D holographic display: A breakthrough in computer-generated holography

Researchers introduced a novel method for generating computer-generated holograms (CGHs) that significantly reduces computational overhead while maintaining high-quality 3D visualization. The approach leverages a split Lohmann lens-based diffraction model, enabling rapid synthesis of 3D holograms through a single-step backward propagat...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 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 brain bubbles carry complete codes

Scientists discovered that tiny brain bubbles called small extracellular vesicles carry more complete instructions for altering cellular function than previously thought. Researchers found nearly 80% of identified mRNAs were full-length, allowing them to be transcribed by recipient cells into viable proteins.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

Coral researchers awarded EXIST start-up funding

Researchers from the University of Oldenburg aim to propagate stony corals via natural reproduction and grow out young corals in aquaria for a more sustainable coral trade. If successful, this method could boost wild coral protection and reduce reliance on expensive export restrictions.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

Thermal resistance, controlled by means of electrical pulses

Scientists at CiQUS have developed a new study that modulates thermal conductivity in materials using electrical pulses. By applying appropriate voltages, researchers achieved a reversible increase or decrease in thermal conductivity, with a 20% modulation at room temperature.

SourceCenter for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 8, 2024

MSU researchers find more action needed to prevent arthritis

Researchers from Michigan State University found that nearly one-in-four individuals experience persistent knee osteoarthritis symptoms after ACL reconstruction, highlighting the importance of timely intervention. The study suggests that addressing these symptoms with exercise or physical therapy can help prevent long-term structural d...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Athletic Training·DateApr 8, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Access to genomic medicine illustrates precision medicine’s delicate future

A new study found that access to genomic testing for cancer is limited by factors such as test availability, patient information, and insurance coverage in both Japan and Switzerland. Despite universal insurance coverage, barriers persist due to differences in hospital accessibility, language barriers, and varying levels of reimbursement.

SourceOsaka University·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·TypeCase study·DateApr 8, 2024

Novel robust-optimal controllers based on fuzzy descriptor system

Researchers developed novel optimal and robust-optimal controllers for the FDS model, achieving six-fold reduction in settling time and improved stability. The robust-optimal controller performed better than the optimal controller in simulations with noise, demonstrating its adaptability.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 8, 2024

Reducing production and consumption growth in high-income countries: is it good for tackling climate change?

Researchers analyze degrowth scenarios to reduce emissions, highlighting the need for lower energy demand and technological advancements. The study suggests that fast emissions reductions are possible even with reduced or zero economic growth, but also raises concerns about sociocultural feasibility.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEconomic Systems Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 8, 2024

People make more patient decisions when shown the benefits first

A new study published in Nature Communications found that people tend to prefer shorter-term options when presented with the delay first, but choose longer-term options when presented with the reward first. By focusing on the benefits of waiting, individuals can improve their self-control and make better long-term choices.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 8, 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.

Janelia scientists release state-of-the-art spike-sorting software Kilosort4

Researchers at Janelia Research Campus have released Kilosort4, an updated version of the popular spike-sorting software that requires less manual work and is more accurate. The new software improves processing and allows for easier use, making it indispensable for neuroscientists worldwide.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 8, 2024

Understanding the link between family physician characteristics and COVID-19 vaccination gaps

Researchers analyzed data on 9060 family physicians to find a correlation between those with the largest share of unvaccinated patients, typically serving marginalized communities, who had less support in their practices. These physicians were more likely to be male, older, and work in fee-for-service models than the remaining 90%.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

Empowering Socially Vulnerable Children: Improved health knowledge and well-being after a 10-week Residential Stay incorporating a Football-Based Health Education Programme

A 10-week residential stay for socially vulnerable children improved their physical, mental and social well-being, increasing it to national average. The addition of a football-based health education programme further enhanced health knowledge, particularly on physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

On-surface synthesis of carbyne: An sp-hybridized linear carbon allotrope

Researchers successfully synthesized a one-dimensional carbon chain on the Au(111) surface, characterized by bond-resolved atomic force microscopy. The polyynic nature of the carbon chain was unambiguously revealed, and its electronic properties were studied using scanning tunnelling spectroscopy, exhibiting a band gap of 5.8 eV.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·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.

Long COVID leaves telltale traces in the blood

A UK study of over 650 patients hospitalised with severe COVID-19 found distinct patterns of inflammation in the blood that could be targeted by immune therapies. The research suggests existing drugs modulating the immune system may help treat long COVID.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

Heart disease, depression linked by inflammation: study

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital found a link between depression and heart disease through inflammation. The study suggests that medications for both conditions, when used together, may prevent the development of cardiomyopathy by reducing inflammation.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Mental Health·DateApr 8, 2024

New method for detecting unusual air turbulence holds promise for aviation safety

A new study proposes a novel approach to detecting turbulence anomalies directly from quick access recorders (QARs) aboard aircraft, enhancing civil aviation safety. The method leverages symbolic classifiers and QAR data, offering a reliable and efficient solution for identifying turbulence anomalies.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateApr 8, 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.

Using pulp and paper waste to scrub carbon from emissions

Researchers at McGill University have developed a novel approach to improve carbon conversion efficiency using waste material from pulp and paper production. This technique reduces both the energy needed for carbon transformation and overall environmental waste.

SourceMcGill University·JournalRSC Sustainability·DateApr 8, 2024

Ontario’s proposed plan to broaden alcohol sales will harm people

A proposed change in Ontario's alcohol sales policy could lead to higher consumption rates and increased harms. The authors propose policies to mitigate potential harms, including strengthening minimum pricing, mandating warning labels, and increasing access to screening and treatment.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeCommentary/editorial·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.

How the moon turned itself inside out

Researchers at the University of Arizona used computer simulations and spacecraft data to study the moon's geology, finding that a dense layer of titanium-rich material sank into the interior and rose on the near side. The findings suggest that the moon 'turned itself inside out' during its formation.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2024

Preventive angioplasty does not improve prognosis

A new study published in New England Journal of Medicine found that preventive angioplasty for heart attack patients does not improve prognosis. The research included 1542 patients and showed no difference between treatment groups in terms of new heart attacks or all-cause deaths.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 8, 2024

Disparities in sleep health and insomnia may begin at a young age

A study by Penn State researchers found that childhood-onset insomnia symptoms persist through young adulthood, with Black children being 2.6 times more likely to experience long-term sleep problems compared to white children. The findings highlight the need for early intervention and treatment to address this public health issue.

SourcePenn State·JournalSLEEP·TypeObservational study·DateApr 8, 2024

Houston-area energy startup incubator wins phase 1 of DOE competition

The University of Houston contributes to the local hydrogen ecosystem through Texas Innovates' winning proposal, 'Carbon and Hydrogen Innovation & Learning Incubator.' The organization will provide incubation, access to partner laboratories, and scale-up support for hydrogen startups in the greater Houston region.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateApr 8, 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.

How vulnerable are European countries to changes in gas prices?

A recent study examines European electricity prices' vulnerability to changes in natural gas prices and proposes new indicators to measure it. The research highlights the need for vigilant market surveillance during energy crises and suggests decoupling electricity markets from natural gas prices.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalEnergy Policy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 8, 2024

Toothed whale echolocation organs evolved from jaw muscles

New research at Hokkaido University reveals that acoustic fat bodies in toothed whales were once jaw muscles and bone marrow. The findings suggest an evolutionary tradeoff between auditory and feeding ecology, leading to the loss of chewing muscles and adaptation to echolocation.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalGene·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

Brain-inspired computing may boil down to information transfer

Researchers focused on measuring information transfer in biological neurons, simulated neurons, and electronic neuromorphic systems. The team demonstrated that it is possible to transform biological circuits into electronic circuits while maintaining the amount of information transferred.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateApr 8, 2024

Immune key to chronic viral infections discovered

Australian researchers have identified a previously unknown immune B memory cell that fails to produce high levels of antibodies against persistent infections. The discovery may lead to earlier intervention and prevention of chronic viral infections like HIV or hepatitis.

SourceMonash University·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·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.

Unveiling the bias distribution in the photoelectrochemical overall water-splitting cell and corresponding regulations

Researchers developed a new method to measure bias distribution in two-electrode PEC cells, revealing that OER half-reaction is not always the rate-limiting factor. By tuning electrolyte pH and coupled half-reactions, they adjusted bias distribution and proposed a descriptor for designing efficient PEC cells.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateApr 8, 2024

Early medieval money mystery solved

A team of researchers analyzed 49 silver coins from the Fitzwilliam Museum and found a chemical and isotopic signature matching third- to seventh-century silver from the Byzantine Empire. The study reveals a surge in trade involving these silver coins between 660 and 750 AD, which had a significant impact on people's lives. Later analy...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAntiquity·DateApr 8, 2024

Deep parts of Great Barrier Reef ‘insulated’ from global warming – for now

Deeper areas of the Great Barrier Reef are insulated from harmful heatwaves due to separation between warm surface water and cooler deeper water. However, this protection will be lost if global warming exceeds 3°C above pre-industrial levels, threatening coral mortality and reef collapse.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 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.

How climate change will impact food production and financial institutions

A new study predicts climate change will lead to increased loan defaults in Brazil's largest public sector bank by up to 7% over three decades. The research uses climate and agricultural data to identify regions with distinct physical and financial resilience needs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2024

Researchers reveal mechanism behind most common mammalian mRNA modification

A new study identifies the mechanism underlying N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification in mammals, revealing its role in regulating gene expression and promoting genome stability. The study found that DDX21 and METTL3 work together to facilitate m6A deposition co-transcriptionally.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMolecular Cell·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.

Unveiling the world's skin: a map of global land cover from 2000-2020

Researchers have introduced a new hybrid global annual 1-km International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (IGBP) Land Cover Maps, addressing longstanding issues of disagreement among existing datasets. The dataset offers improved accuracy and resolution, essential for environmental monitoring and climate change research.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·DateApr 8, 2024

Does cannabis use affect cognitive decline?

A new study found that non-medical cannabis use is significantly associated with a 96% decrease in odds of subjective cognitive decline. However, medical and dual-use were not significant in reducing the risk of SCD. The study highlights the potential protective effects of cannabis on cognition, but more longitudinal research is needed...

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Alzheimer Research·DateApr 8, 2024

Will the convergence of light and matter in Janus particles transcend performance limitations in the optical display industry?

Researchers pioneer technique to control polaritons, unlocking potential for next-generation materials and surpassing performance limitations of optical displays. The breakthrough enables stable generation of polariton particles with enhanced brightness and color control.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 8, 2024

ADA Forsyth scientists discover new phage resistance mechanism in phage-bacterial arms race

Researchers at ADA Forsyth Institute discovered a new phage resistance mechanism in the oral microbiome, where ultrasmall bacterial parasites, called Saccharibacteria or TM7, help their host bacteria resist lytic phages. This dynamic ecosystem promotes coexistence between antagonistic organisms.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 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.

NTU Singapore scientists grow ‘mini kidneys,’ revealing new insights into metabolic defects and potential therapy for polycystic kidney disease

Researchers at NTU Singapore successfully grew 'mini kidneys' in the lab, grafted them into live mice, and found a potential treatment for polycystic kidney disease by boosting autophagy. The study suggests that minoxidil could be used to reduce cysts in the novel mouse model.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

New study: Opioids kill, especially if you're alone

A new study from Aarhus University investigates 327 deaths related to opioid overdoses in Denmark and finds that being alone increases the risk of fatal poisoning. The study also highlights the importance of recognizing sleep as a precursor to opioid poisoning, particularly among young people.

SourceAarhus University·JournalForensic Science International·TypeCase study·DateApr 8, 2024

How scientists are accelerating chemistry discoveries with automation

A new statistical-modeling workflow can quickly identify molecular structures of products formed by chemical reactions, accelerating drug discovery and synthetic chemistry. The workflow also enables the analysis of unpurified reaction mixtures, reducing time spent on purification and characterization.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 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.

A gene mutation associated with a rare neurological disorder and increased susceptibility to viral infections may be treatable with oleic acid

Researchers identified a gene mutation associated with impaired natural killer cell function, leading to increased susceptibility to viral infections in people with a rare genetic condition. Oleic acid supplementation shows promise as a potential therapy for these patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024

Novel tech captures disease markers in a snap: the future of early diagnosis

Researchers have developed a novel method, Flocculation via Orbital Acoustic Trapping (FLOAT), to isolate extracellular vesicles from biological fluids with high efficiency and purity. This innovation promises to revolutionize disease diagnosis and monitoring, offering hope for earlier intervention and personalized treatment plans.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateApr 8, 2024

PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ above drinking water guidelines in global source water

A new UNSW-led international study reveals that much of the world's global source water contains PFAS levels above recommended drinking water guidelines. In Australia, firefighting foams used in military institutions and fire training facilities are a common source of contamination, with many locations exceeding safe limits.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 8, 2024

Protecting art and passwords with biochemistry

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel cryptographic one-way function using DNA sequences, providing a secure method for protecting valuable objects like art and passwords. The system uses true randomness and physical linking to prevent decoding by algorithms or quantum computers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·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.

RVAM16: A low-cost multiple-ISA processor based on RISC-V and ARM thumb

Researchers developed RVAM16, a low-cost multiple-ISA processor based on RISC-V and ARM Thumb, to address software compatibility issues. The new processor achieves significant speedups of over 2.73x for non-native ARM programs, while maintaining comparable area and power consumption.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2024