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Science News Archive August 2024 - Page 2


Page 2 of 38

Doughnut-shaped region found inside Earth’s core deepens understanding of planet’s magnetic field

Scientists from Australian National University have discovered a doughnut-shaped region in the liquid core, providing new clues about the dynamics of Earth's magnetic field. The region sits parallel to the equator and has low seismic speeds, indicating a high concentration of light chemical elements.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 30, 2024

New Chronic Coronary Syndrome (CCS) Guidelines expand diagnostic tools and ways to prevent major adverse events and enhance quality of life

The new guidelines emphasize the importance of detecting non-obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCA/INOCA) caused by microcirculation dysfunction. A risk factor-weighted clinical likelihood model helps estimate pre-test likelihood, allowing for targeted testing and treatment. The guidelines also recommend invasive coronary functiona...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 30, 2024

COVID-19 vaccination mandates boosted uptake among health care workers

A new study from Tulane University found that state-level COVID-19 vaccination mandates increased vaccine rates among health care workers by 3-4%, with improvements seen in states that required vaccinations without opt-outs. The policy was particularly effective among health care workers between the ages of 25-49 years.

SourceTulane University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 30, 2024

How hope beats mindfulness when times are tough

A recent study by North Carolina State University suggests that hope is more beneficial than mindfulness in helping people manage stress and stay professionally engaged. The study found that hopeful individuals experience less distress, are more engaged with their work, and feel less tension related to their professional lives.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalStress and Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 30, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

AI tool maps out cell metabolism with precision

A team of researchers created RENAISSANCE, an AI-based tool that simplifies the creation of kinetic models to accurately depict metabolic states. The tool successfully generated models that matched experimentally observed metabolic behaviors in Escherichia coli, simulating how the bacteria would adjust their metabolism over time.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 30, 2024

Metal foil as 3D scanner for electron beam

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have developed a novel method to measure the structure of microbunched plasma-wakefield-accelerated electron beams using metal foil. This technique enables precise control over the electron bunches, leading to brighter and more stable light in free-electron lasers.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New ESC Hypertension Guidelines recommend intensified BP targets and introduce a novel elevated blood pressure category to better identify people at risk for heart attack and stroke

The new guidelines recommend intensified BP targets, introducing a novel elevated blood pressure category to identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease. The updated recommendations also focus on 'frailty' rather than chronological age and introduce a new systolic BP treatment target range of 120-129 mmHg.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 30, 2024

Brigham-led study finds weight loss drug semaglutide reduced COVID-19 related deaths during the pandemic

A recent study led by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that semaglutide reduced deaths from cardiovascular disease and infections, including COVID-19, in obese and overweight patients. The study involved over 17,000 participants and showed a 19% lower overall death rate compared to placebo.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 30, 2024

Like people, vultures get set in their ways and have fewer friends as they age

As griffon vultures age, they tend to establish fewer but stronger social bonds with a core group of friends, while their movement routines become more routine. This shift in behavior is linked to the birds' increasing loyalty to familiar food sources and roosting sites.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 30, 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.

Study combines data, molecular simulations to accelerate drug discovery

Researchers have developed a new method to increase speed and success rates in drug discovery by combining data from the Library of Integrated Network-based Cellular Signatures with targeted docking simulations. This approach can accelerate the drug research process, identifying potentially effective compounds more efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 30, 2024

Promising antibiotic candidates discovered in microbes deep in the Arctic Sea

Researchers have identified two compounds with strong antivirulence activity from actinobacteria in the Arctic Sea, targeting EPEC bacteria that cause severe diarrhea. The compounds inhibit virulence factor formation and binding to host cells, reducing disease severity and potential for resistance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2024

Long-term conditions could delay lung cancer diagnosis, new study finds

Patients with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma may experience delays in being diagnosed with lung cancer due to obscured early symptoms. The study found significant delays in patients with comorbidities that provide alternative explanations for lung cancer symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateAug 30, 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 ESC Guidelines combine peripheral arterial and aortic diseases for first time, emphasising interconnectivity of whole arterial system

The new guidelines evaluate PAAD as part of the same cardiovascular system, acknowledging the interconnectedness between aortic and peripheral vascular diseases. The updated recommendations focus on chronic management, screening, and comprehensive treatment strategies to improve treatment outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 30, 2024

It’s worth challenging that troubling medical bill, study finds

A new US study found that most people who challenged problematic medical bills received financial relief, including 74% of those who reported a billing error and 76% of those who sought financial assistance. However, those who may struggle most with medical debt, such as those without college degrees or lower financial literacy, were l...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateAug 30, 2024

Labor day crowds temporarily impact local streams, research shows

Researchers found that recreational activities like tubing and swimming temporarily introduce chemicals and microscopic organisms into local waterways. The study suggests that these changes can have significant impacts on plants and animals along the way, even if they are short-lived.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalACS ES&T Water·DateAug 29, 2024

What’s in the microbiome of the foods we eat?

Researchers have developed a comprehensive database of the 'food microbiome' by sequencing metagenomes from 2,533 foods, identifying 10,899 food-associated microbes. The study shows that these microbes can influence human health and provide insights into how to improve food quality, safety, and authenticity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 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.

Muslims felt excluded from health policies during COVID-19

A new study by the University of Leeds has found that British Muslims faced significant challenges accessing palliative care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research highlighted the need for culturally aware healthcare policies and greater inclusion of minority groups in decision-making processes to address these inequities.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBMJ Open·TypeSurvey·DateAug 29, 2024

The Lancet: Managing early stages of abortion care at home after 12 weeks of pregnancy is safe and reduces time spent in hospital, study finds

A randomized controlled trial found that administering the first dose of misoprostol at home reduces hospital stay time by 71% and improves patient satisfaction. Women who took misoprostol at home also reported feeling more autonomous during a stressful process.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 29, 2024

Microbes in orbit: Understanding spaceflight’s impact on gut health

A McGill-led study found significant shifts in certain gut bacteria corresponding to changes in liver and intestinal genes, suggesting spaceflight may suppress the immune system and alter metabolism. The research could help ensure the success of future space missions and medical advancements on Earth.

SourceMcGill University·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 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.

Dancing galaxies make a monster at the cosmic dawn

A team of researchers observed two galaxies merging 12.8 billion years ago, forming a massive object that triggered rapid growth of supermassive black holes and starburst activity. The discovery provides new insights into galaxy/black hole formation in the early Universe.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateAug 29, 2024

Uncovering the secret communication of monkeys: They have names!

Researchers found that marmoset monkeys use 'phee-calls' to address specific individuals, discerning when a call was directed at them and responding more accurately. This ability is similar to human naming and may have evolved to help marmosets stay connected in their dense rainforest habitat.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Wavelength-independent and photoinitiator-free laser 3D nanolithography

Researchers develop wavelength-independent 3D polymerisation using low peak power laser oscillators, enabling rapid and efficient printing of non-photosensitized materials. The method uses high pulse repetition rate oscillators to achieve localized photo-crosslinking and controlled energy deposition per focal volume.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateAug 29, 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.

Experts call for routine measurement of lipoprotein (a) levels

High levels of lipoprotein (a) found in 20-34% of Polish patients with heart disease or at risk. Lp(a) measurements may be crucial in preventing cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis progression.

SourcePolskie Towarzystwo Lipidologiczne (Polish Lipid Association)·JournalProgress in Cardiovascular Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2024

How a salt giant radically reshaped Mediterranean marine biodiversity

A new study quantifies the impact of the Messinian Salinity Crisis on Mediterranean marine biodiversity, revealing a drastic reduction in species, with only 86 of 779 endemic species surviving. The crisis took over 1.7 million years to recover from, highlighting the long-term effects of ecological crises on biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2024

Morphing facial technology sheds light on the boundaries of self-recognition

A study by Dr. Shunichi Kasahara found that levels of identification with one's face remain consistent regardless of agency or control over facial movements. The results suggest that a sense of agency does not significantly impact our ability to judge our facial identity, even in scenarios like deepfakes.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

MCG scientists working to understand why men with prostate cancer are at higher risk of Alzheimer’s

Researchers investigated the connection between androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer and Alzheimer's disease. They found that ADT can exacerbate cognitive decline by increasing brain immune cell infiltration, but a combination with Natalizumab improved integrity of the blood-brain barrier and reduced inflammation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 29, 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.

Several advantages when medical abortion is started at home

A study published in The Lancet found that starting medical abortion at home is as safe as in a hospital, with 71% of participants able to be treated as day patients. The procedure also promotes patient autonomy and can reduce healthcare costs.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 29, 2024

Snapshot compressive microscopy: Advancing in-situ and real-time monitoring in laser material processing

A team of researchers developed a novel imaging system to address real-time monitoring challenges in ultrafast laser material processing. The Dual-Path Snapshot Compressive Microscopy (DP-SCM) system offers high-speed, high-resolution imaging capabilities.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight: Advanced Manufacturing·DateAug 29, 2024

Mechanisms of how morphine relieves pain mapped out

A study at Karolinska Institutet reveals that morphine activates a 'morphine ensemble' of neurons in the brain, leading to pain relief. This understanding may help develop new strategies to treat pain without triggering addiction and overdose.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2024

Novel motion simulator reveals key role of air flow in rodent navigation

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University used a novel motion simulator to study rodent navigation in dark environments. The study found that rats use airflow cues, combined with their sense of balance, to enhance their self-motion perception. This breakthrough sheds light on the mechanisms behind sensory processing and brain function.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 29, 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.

Messinian salinity crisis nearly reset Mediterranean biodiversity

A recent meta-analysis found that the Messinian Salinity Crisis significantly altered Mediterranean biodiversity, with 66.8% dissimilarity between species before and after the crisis. The study also showed that only a few endemic species survived the event, while new species were introduced following the reconnection to the Atlantic.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2024

Community college students conduct research at UTA

The University of Texas at Arlington is piloting a program that allows community college students from Dallas College's North Lake campus to participate in paid research opportunities with faculty mentors. Students receive $6,000 for their time and effort and have the chance to advance their STEM education and careers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 29, 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.

Gene therapy gets a turbo boost from University of Hawaii researchers

Researchers at the University of Hawaii have developed a new gene editing technology that can efficiently deliver healthy genes to the body. This method addresses limitations of current methods and has shown success rates of up to 96%, potentially leading to faster and more affordable treatments for various genetic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Researchers discover a surprising way to jump-start battery performance

Charging lithium-ion batteries at high currents just before they leave the factory increases average lifespan by 50% and decreases initial charging time from 10 hours to 20 minutes. Researchers used machine learning to pinpoint changes in battery electrodes that account for this increase in performance.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateAug 29, 2024

Greenhouse gas emissions and costs of inhaler devices in the US

A study published in JAMA found that inhaler prescriptions filled by Medicare beneficiaries in 2022 resulted in approximately 1.15 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. Metered-dose inhalers, particularly those using short-acting β-agonist medications, accounted for nearly all inhaler-related emissions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 29, 2024

New study assesses the efficacy of suvorexant in reducing delirium in older adults

Researchers tested suvorexant's effectiveness in reducing delirium in older adults, with findings suggesting it may benefit hyperactive and mixed subtypes but not hypoactive delirium. The study included 203 Japanese adults aged 65-90 years hospitalized for sudden illness or scheduled surgery.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 29, 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.

Dancing galaxies make a monster at the cosmic dawn

A team of researchers used ALMA to study the earliest known pair of close quasars, discovering that they are merging and will form a super-bright monster galaxy. The merger is expected to trigger a rapid increase in star formation, creating a 'starburst' effect.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 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.

VR headsets could be life changing for people with intellectual disability

Researchers found immersive VR training significantly improves life skills in adults with intellectual disability, outperforming non-immersive methods. The study showed that VR headsets enable participants to learn practical life skills faster and retain them longer.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJournal of Intellectual Disability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Finding new targets for blocking chronic hepatitis

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University discovered the role of A20 in suppressing chronic hepatitis by inhibiting the DCLK1-JNK pathway-dependent chemokines. In mice lacking A20 expression, hepatic stellate cells displayed spontaneous inflammation and increased chemokine levels.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 29, 2024

A discovery to set your heart a-knocking

Researchers found that Copaxone improves damaged mouse hearts by reducing inflammation and increasing blood supply to other organs. The drug also protects cardiac muscle cells from damage and promotes new blood vessel growth.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateAug 29, 2024

Children contribute to group projects when there are clear and common goals

A study found that children as young as six can contribute to group projects when there are clear and common goals. The researchers used a game where children worked together to fill a pool with water, with benefits for the whole group but individual costs. The results showed that most groups achieved their objectives and cooperated, e...

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalPsychological Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 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.