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Science News Archive August 2024 - Page 4


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Silicon chip propels 6G communications forward

A team of scientists from Osaka University has created a polarisation multiplexer on a substrateless silicon base, which doubles the data capacity under the same bandwidth with lower data loss than existing devices. This innovation paves the way for more robust and reliable high-speed wireless networks.

SourceOsaka University·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Lack of competition between petrol stations hits households most in poorest areas

Households in low-income areas face higher petrol price increases when rival fuel stations close compared to high-income areas. Despite new station openings, low-income areas do not benefit from the same drop in prices. The study found that larger chains respond with higher price increases following a rival's exit.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Industrial Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 29, 2024

Fungus-controlled robots tap into the unique power of nature

Researchers at Cornell University have developed fungus-controlled robots that can react to their environment better than synthetic counterparts. The biohybrid robots use fungal mycelia to sense chemical and biological signals, enabling them to adapt to unexpected situations.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Robotics·DateAug 29, 2024

Pharmacy naloxone standing order distribution may have reduced opioid fatality rates in Massachusetts

A new study found that communities with pharmacies implementing a state standing order to distribute naloxone without a prescription showed a significant decrease in opioid-related deaths. The analysis, conducted from 2013 to 2018, observed a gradual decline of 16% per year in cities with naloxone distribution, compared to those without.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 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.

HKUST and SJTU physics researchers identify new multiple Majorana zero modes in superconducting SnTe

The researchers identified crystal-symmetry-protected multiple Majorana zero modes (MZMs) in a single vortex of the superconducting topological crystalline insulator SnTe. This discovery offers a new pathway to realizing fault-tolerant quantum computers, which is essential for robust and reliable quantum computing.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

A breakthrough in chiral molecule research opens new horizons for science

Scientists at the Fritz Haber Institute have achieved a 96% purity in the quantum state of one enantiomer of a chiral molecule, moving closer to perfect selectivity. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for studying fundamental physics and chemistry effects involving chiral molecules.

SourceFritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 29, 2024

Smart mask monitors breath for signs of health

A new smart mask prototype, EBCare, analyzes chemicals in exhaled breath in real-time, offering personalized health monitoring for respiratory ailments like asthma and COPD. The device's self-cooling system allows for daily wear, while its low cost makes it a promising tool for remote health assessments.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2024

Pharmacy naloxone standing order distribution may have reduced opioid fatality rates in Massachusetts

A new study found that communities with pharmacies dispensing standing order naloxone experienced a gradual and significant decrease in opioid deaths, averaging 16% per year. This suggests that expanding access to naloxone through state-mandated standing orders can save lives and reduce opioid fatality rates.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2024

Land-sea “tag-team” devastated ocean life millions of years ago reveal scientists

A team of researchers discovered that a 'tag-team' between the oceans and continents led to severe environmental crises, causing mass extinctions of marine species. The study found that chemical weathering pulses disrupted the oceans, leading to anoxic events that had profound impacts on marine ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 29, 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.

Northwestern receives $55 million to advance health research

The Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute has received $55 million in NIH funding to accelerate the development, evaluation, and implementation of improved healthcare interventions. The grant will support the development of effective health interventions for more patients more quickly, with a focus on ad...

SourceNorthwestern University·DateAug 29, 2024

Blocking the longevity gene S6K1 extends lifespan by reducing inflammation

Research published in Nature Aging has shown that deleting the S6K1 gene in aged mouse livers reduces inflammation by suppressing inflammatory protein production, linking metabolic regulation to aging and disease. This finding provides a biological mechanism for the beneficial effects of removing S6K1 on health span.

SourceMedical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Medical Sciences·JournalNature Aging·TypeExperimental study·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.

Borderzone Breakthrough: A new source of cardiac inflammation

Researchers at University of California San Diego have identified a novel mechanism of cardiac inflammation that may prevent heart failure after a heart attack. The borderzone, surrounding the infarcted area, is found to be a key region for this inflammation, with heart muscle cells playing a dominant role in initiating it.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Ancient sea cow attacked by a crocodile and sharks sheds new light on prehistoric food chains

A team of experts discovered a dugongine sea cow attacked by an ancient crocodile and tiger shark, shedding light on prehistoric food chains. The fossils showed signs of both active predation and scavenging, providing new insights into the region's food chain networks during the Miocene epoch.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 29, 2024

Innovative light-activated polymerization methods unlock new possibilities for intracellular applications

Researchers developed two innovative methods for intracellular polymerization using light stimuli, offering precise spatial and temporal control. These methods have the potential to modulate various cellular functions, making them a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions.

SourceShenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Protocols·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 29, 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.

Researchers develop probiotic to ameliorate ulcerative colitis

A new probiotic, Se-fLac, has been developed to treat ulcerative colitis by modulating the gut microbiota and reducing oxidative stress. The probiotic, which delivers selenium, showed significant therapeutic efficacy in mouse and non-human primate models of colitis.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 28, 2024

Rare earth single atoms enhance manganese oxide's electrochemical oxygen evolution

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a novel approach to enhance the efficiency of the oxygen evolution reaction by introducing rare earth single atoms into manganese oxide. This leads to unprecedented improvements in OER performance, making it a suitable alternative to traditional catalysts like ruthenium dioxide.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalNano Energy·DateAug 28, 2024

Augmented recognition of distracted driving state based on electrophysiological analysis of brain network

A new research paper proposes an electrophysiological analysis-based brain network method for augmented recognition of different types of distractions during driving. The study used a simulated experiment and machine learning classifiers to achieve high accuracy in distinguishing between normal and distracted states.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateAug 28, 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.

NASA discovers a long-sought global electric field on earth

Scientists have successfully measured a planet-wide electric field thought to be fundamental to Earth's atmosphere. The ambipolar electric field, driving atmospheric escape and shaping the ionosphere, has been quantified and revealed its role in our planet's evolution.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

Aging population: Public willingness to pay for healthcare hinges on perceived benefits and risks

Researchers found that informing people about future self-benefits from the healthcare system can increase health insurance contributions, but only among those unaware of fiscal risks. The study suggests that policymakers should implement fiscal consolidation policies to build trust in public finance.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEuropean Journal of Political Economy·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 2024

Dogs understand words from soundboard buttons, study reveals

A new study published in PLOS ONE shows that dogs trained with soundboard buttons can comprehend specific words and respond appropriately. The study's findings suggest that dogs are not merely 'reading' their owners' body language but are indeed processing the words themselves.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 28, 2024

Common salt activates anti-tumor cells

Researchers have discovered that sodium chloride can increase the efficiency of antitumoral T cells, leading to improved metabolic fitness and enhanced tumor killing capabilities. This finding has significant implications for adoptive T-cell therapy in cancer treatment.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute -·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 28, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Love is blind for male fruit flies who will choose sex over safety

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered that male fruit flies ignore physical threats as they pursue a female fly, driven by the neurotransmitter dopamine. As courtship advances, dopamine levels increase, blocking sensory pathways and reducing the ability to respond to threats.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

UC Irvine study reveals health impacts of repeated wildfires and smoke exposure

The UC Irvine study found that frequent wildfires and smoke exposure take a significant toll on physical and mental health, local economies, and community resilience. Residents shared stories of breathing difficulties, sinus problems, eye irritation, psychological stress, anxiety, and fear due to persistent smoke and extreme heat.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnvironmental Research Health·DateAug 28, 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.

Mankai reduces post-meal sugar levels in diabetics

A clinical trial found that consuming Mankai after meals can significantly lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study showed a 20% reduction in post-meal blood sugar levels and faster return to baseline levels in about two-thirds of participants.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalDiabetes Obesity and Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 28, 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 pancreatic cancer treatment proves effective in shrinking, clearing tumors

Researchers have developed a novel nanoparticle drug-delivery system to activate an immune pathway in combination with tumor-targeting agents, showing promising results in treating pancreatic cancer. Eight out of nine mice tested experienced tumor improvements, including two complete responses.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

Breaking open the AI black box, team finds key chemistry for solar energy and beyond

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a method to understand and improve light-harvesting molecules for solar energy applications. By combining AI with automated chemical synthesis and experimental validation, they were able to produce molecules four times more stable than traditional ones.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 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.

Georgia Tech neuroscientists explore the intersection of music and memory

Researchers at Georgia Tech have discovered that music can influence our emotions and reshape old memories, potentially aiding in the treatment of mental health disorders. By listening to film soundtracks, participants were able to incorporate new emotions into their memories, which lasted even after the music was removed.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2024

New study: drug may stop migraines before headache starts

A new study published in Neurology found that ubrogepant, a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist, was effective in helping people with migraine function normally and go about their day. The study involved 518 participants who experienced early warning signs of a migraine and were given either ubrogepant or a placebo.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 28, 2024

Measuring microplastic pollution in the marine food chain

Researchers developed a new method to assess and manage rising global plastic pollution by testing levels of microplastic contamination in marine plankton. The study found varying degrees of damage to common plastics using different chemical digestive aids, highlighting the need for effective strategies to mitigate marine pollution.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2024

Environmental policy in Brazil leads to less violence

A study by University of Bonn researchers found that measures against illegal deforestation in Brazil lead to a decrease in violent crimes and homicides. The number of homicides fell significantly, particularly after being blacklisted.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Institutional Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 28, 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.

Half of Uber, Lyft trips replace more sustainable options

A California study found that over 50% of ride-hailing trips replaced more sustainable forms of transportation or created new vehicle miles, highlighting the need to improve the sustainability of ride-hailing services. The study also identified disparities in trip cancellations among low-income and minority groups.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 2024

Ultrasound devise shows promise for treating chronic pain

Researchers at the University of Utah developed Diadem, a noninvasive device that stimulates deep brain regions to disrupt faulty signals causing chronic pain. In a recent clinical trial, participants experienced significant pain relief after just one treatment session.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPain·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 28, 2024

More people at risk of hereditary heart disease than thought

A new study found that one in 1,000 people in the UK carry genetic variants linked to cardiac amyloidosis, a potentially fatal heart condition. The study also revealed higher incidence rates among individuals with African ancestry, highlighting the need for early detection and monitoring.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2024

To build a thriving electric vehicle market, prioritize equity and justice

A new study by Boston University and NREL examines the role of housing- and income-related factors in electric vehicle adoption. The research highlights the need for equitable access to charging infrastructure, with a focus on expanding purchasing and charging options for low-income households.

SourceBoston University·JournalEnergy and Climate Change·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 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.

Waging war on ‘superbugs’ in aged care

A new study found that antibiotic use in aged care leads to antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the gut, posing a significant risk to vulnerable residents. Researchers analysed stool samples from 164 residents and discovered nearly all carried resistant genes without symptoms.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Infection·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 28, 2024

In-person contact linked with lower levels of loneliness in older adults

A study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that in-person contact is crucial for reducing loneliness in older adults, while phone and digital contact are less effective. The study revealed that even weak social ties can benefit from in-person visits, leading to lower levels of reported loneliness.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series B·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 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.

Study raises concerns about residential opioid treatment providers in NC

A North Carolina State University study found that only 12% of organizations providing residential opioid substance use services are licensed by the state. Only a quarter allow patients to access proven opioid agonist treatment (OAT), which has better outcomes and cuts overdose deaths in half.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·TypeSurvey·DateAug 28, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Lackluster prioritization of the health sector in government spending and dwindling donor contributions drive slow growth in health spending in Sub-Saharan Africa

A study published in PLOS Global Public Health finds that slow growth in health sector spending is projected in Sub-Saharan Africa until 2050. The decline is driven by tepid growth in government spending and reductions in development assistance for health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 28, 2024