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Science News Archive December 2024 - Page 4


Page 4 of 39

Six new tree species named: 3 from Panama, 3 from Colombia

Botanists have identified six new tree species, including three found only in Panama, using comparisons of dried plant specimens across the Neotropics. The new species are part of the Matisia genus and have been added to herbarium collections in Panama and Colombia.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalRevista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales·TypeObservational study·DateDec 23, 2024

New drug to prevent migraine may start working right away

A new study published in Neurology suggests that the recently approved drug atogepant can start working to prevent migraines as early as the first day of treatment. The study, which focused on three trials over 12 weeks, found significant reductions in migraine frequency and severity among participants taking the drug.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 23, 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 clinical practice guideline on the process for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of cognitive impairment or dementia

The new guideline recommends a patient-centered approach to diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, involving goal-setting, risk profiling, symptom description, cognitive testing, and diagnostic imaging. A care partner's involvement is crucial, especially for patients with compromised cognition.

SourceAlzheimer's Association·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateDec 23, 2024

How the freezer factors into lowering food waste

A new study from Ohio State University finds that freezing food can lead to less waste, with households that practice home freezing exhibiting lower levels of total food waste. The study also highlights the importance of proper food storage techniques and education on reducing food waste, particularly among consumers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBritish Food Journal·TypeSurvey·DateDec 23, 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.

How machine learning can help predict the spectral properties of materials

A new study uses machine learning to reduce time needed for calculating screening parameters in Koopmans functionals, enabling faster predictions of material spectral properties. Researchers trained a simple model using modest data and achieved accurate results, paving the way for studying temperature-dependent spectral properties.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 22, 2024

Pyrotinib and fulvestrant combination shows promising efficacy for HR+/HER2+ metastatic breast cancer patients

The study demonstrated a median progression-free survival of 18.2 months and a disease control rate of 97.5% among participants with hormone receptor-positive and HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. The combination treatment was well-tolerated, with no grade 4 adverse events reported.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·DateDec 22, 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.

Metastatic brain tumors: Challenges and emerging hope

Recent advancements in metastatic brain tumors offer hope for treatment. The integration of multi-omics technologies and cutting-edge therapies is shedding new light on the intricate landscape of brain metastasis.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·DateDec 22, 2024

HKU paleobiologists unlock 500,000 years of fossil records revealing climate change impacts on Southern Ocean ecosystems and risks of marine carbon removal

A 500,000-year fossil record study by HKU paleobiologists sheds light on temperature changes and food input shaping deep-sea ecosystems in the Southern Ocean. The research warns that human-induced warming may harm delicate deep-sea ecosystems with potential impacts of marine carbon removal.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2024

Lithium as a potential therapeutic option for autism spectrum disorder treatment

A groundbreaking study reveals lithium can restore brain function and alleviate behavioral symptoms in animal models of autism spectrum disorder caused by Dyrk1a gene mutations. Lithium normalizes brain size, restores neural structure and function, and improves social interaction and anxiety behaviors.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 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.

KAIST develops foundational technology to revert cancer cells to normal cells​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a technology that can treat colon cancer by converting cancer cells into normal-like cells. The breakthrough involves creating a digital twin of the gene network associated with normal cell differentiation, leading to significant promise for reversible cancer therapies.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2024

New calls for research groups at the ZiF

Bielefeld University's ZiF offers financial resources and infrastructure to researchers working on interdisciplinary topics. Researchers with a completed doctorate from all disciplines and countries can apply for funding for research groups until April 24, 2025.

SourceBielefeld University·DateDec 22, 2024

Propranolol reduces tremors in Parkinson's disease

A study found that propranolol reduces tremors in Parkinson's disease by inhibiting brain activity and reducing the amplifying effect of the stress hormone noradrenaline. Propranolol also works to reduce tremors at rest, suggesting a role for the stress system even when not under stress.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 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.

Largest magnetic anisotropy of a molecule measured at BESSY II

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute and Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin successfully measure the largest magnetic anisotropy of a single molecule using THz electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. This breakthrough has significant implications for energy-efficient data storage, with potential applications in various fields.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2024

Scientists unlock secrets behind flowering of the king of fruits

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University discovered that durian plants bloom approximately 50 days after a 15-day dry spell, affecting both grafted and seed-grown varieties. This study sheds light on the tropical ecosystems and can inform effective agricultural practices to predict flowering and manage harvests.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalInternational Journal of Biometeorology·DateDec 21, 2024

Blocking the cell cycle inhibitor p21 prevents regrowth in lung cancer cells

Researchers discovered that blocking cell cycle inhibitor p21 prevents lung cancer cells from entering a quiescent state, allowing for more cancer cell death before and after chemotherapy. This leads to reduced cancer relapse rates, improving patient outcomes.

SourceMedical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Medical Sciences·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024

UC Davis researchers help decode the cause of aggressive breast cancer in women of color

Researchers at UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a biomarker called TRIM37 associated with aggressive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in Black women. This finding may help develop predictive biomarkers to improve TNBC diagnosis and prognosis, particularly for early-stage patients. TRIM37 overexpression is linked...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEMBO Reports·DateDec 20, 2024

How everyday activities inside your home can generate energy

Researchers are developing new ways to harvest and adapt energy from everyday home activities, such as turning a doorknob or opening a fridge door. This technology aims to create smart interfaces that can power appliances and assist people with disabilities, increasing energy efficiency and accessibility.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateDec 20, 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.

First demonstration of quantum teleportation over busy Internet cables

Researchers successfully transmit quantum information through a 30-kilometer-long fiberoptic cable carrying internet traffic, introducing a new possibility for combining quantum communication with existing internet cables. This breakthrough simplifies the infrastructure required for distributed quantum sensing or computing applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024

Texas A&M researchers illuminate the mysteries of icy ocean worlds

Researchers from Texas A&M University have introduced a novel thermodynamic concept called the 'centotectic,' which investigates the stability of liquids in extreme conditions. The study provides critical information for determining the habitability of icy moons like Europa, with potential implications for planetary exploration efforts.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2024

Older age linked to increased complications after breast reconstruction

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that older age is associated with small but significant increases in certain complications after breast reconstruction. Older women may be less satisfied with the appearance of their reconstructed breasts, but may have better psychologic adjustment.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateDec 20, 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.

Chinese Medical Journal review discusses the future prospects of medical AI

A comprehensive analysis of medical AI technologies highlights their potential in improving diagnostic accuracy and customizing treatments. However, challenges such as data collection and analysis, biases, and patient privacy concerns need to be addressed through standardized evaluation protocols and effective collaborations.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 20, 2024

Russia-Ukraine War’s unexpected casualties: Hungry people in distant nations

A study reveals that the Russia-Ukraine war has a disproportionate impact on distant countries, leading to higher costs and fewer options for securing food supplies. Researchers used satellite images and metacoupling framework to analyze the connections between regional conflicts and global food accessibility.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 20, 2024

Construction materials and household items are a part of a long-term carbon sink called the “technosphere”

Researchers estimate that human-made products store around 400 million tons of fossil carbon annually, equivalent to 9% of extracted fossil carbon. Recycling and increasing product lifetime can help reduce waste streams, while enacting policies to minimize landfill discharge is crucial.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 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.

SNU researchers develop the world’s most sensitive flexible strain sensor

A research team at Seoul National University developed a hypersensitive, flexible strain sensor that can detect infinitesimal strains as small as 10−5. The sensor, with meta-structured cracks, enables real-time blood flow monitoring for early stroke diagnosis and cerebrovascular disease detection.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024

Dark energy 'doesn’t exist' so can't be pushing 'lumpy' Universe apart – study

A team of physicists and astronomers found that the Universe is expanding in a more varied way than previously thought, making dark energy unnecessary. The new evidence supports the timescape model of cosmic expansion, which attributes differences in stretching light to calibration issues rather than dark energy.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Letters·DateDec 20, 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.

Prosthetic material could help reduce infections from intravenous catheters

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a skin-like material that can mimic human skin textures and elasticity, simulating conditions for bacterial growth. The Ecoflex-based skin replicas can be used to test wearable sensors and improve catheter designs, potentially reducing the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2024

Growing safer spuds: removing toxins from potatoes

Scientists have discovered a way to remove toxic compounds from potatoes, making them safer to eat and easier to store. By engineering plants to control when and where these compounds are produced, researchers envision crops that can be stored without risk of toxicity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience·DateDec 20, 2024

Chinese Medical Journal review provides insights into respiratory syncytial virus

Researchers provide comprehensive review of RSV's virology, clinical impact, and prevention strategies, emphasizing the need for effective vaccines to mitigate this critical health need. The review highlights RSV's severe impact on infants, children, and older adults, as well as its potential effects on multiple organs and systems.

SourceChinese Medical Journals Publishing House Co., Ltd.·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 20, 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.

New AI method makes materials design more efficient and transparent

Researchers developed a novel AI method using Disentangled Variational Autoencoder (D-VAE) for inverse materials design, making the process data-efficient and interpretable. The method was tested on high-entropy alloys, producing clear results that highlight influencing material features.

SourceELSP·JournalAI & Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2024

Integrating GABA and dopamine signals to regulate meal initiation

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that GABA and dopamine signals work synergistically to regulate meal initiation. The study's findings have implications for developing improved therapies to manage obesity, a worldwide epidemic.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalMetabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024

Breakthrough study set to change how osteosarcomas are diagnosed and treated

Researchers have identified three distinct subtypes of osteosarcoma using advanced mathematical modeling and machine learning. This breakthrough could transform clinical trials and patient care by enabling targeted treatment personalized to individual cancer subtypes.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2024

TTUHSC’s Cornwall to investigate structure of brain extracellular matrix

Dr. Gail Cornwall is investigating the structure of the brain extracellular matrix, a network of proteins and polysaccharides found in the space between neurons and glia. Her research aims to identify novel structural elements and mechanisms that enable brain plasticity and sex-specific responses.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·DateDec 20, 2024

First dual chamber leadless pacemaker implanted in a child

A 13-year-old patient underwent a minimally invasive procedure to receive a dual chamber leadless pacemaker, treating congenital complete heart block. The AVEIR device was implanted via the right internal jugular vein, allowing the child to resume sports activities without restrictions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPacing and Clinical Electrophysiology·TypeCase study·DateDec 20, 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.

Insights into targeting LKB1 in tumorigenesis

Research suggests LKB1's paradoxical pro-tumorigenic properties highlight the need for targeted inhibitors. Studies indicate that LKB1 plays a crucial role in regulating AMPK and reactive oxygen species scavenging.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateDec 20, 2024

Commercial tea bags release millions of microplastics when in use

A study by UAB researchers found that commercial tea bags release significant amounts of nano-sized particles and nanofilamentous structures when used to brew tea. The particles, made from polymers like nylon-6, polypropylene, and cellulose, can interact with human intestinal cells and potentially cause harm.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024

NCSA Director Bill Gropp on SC24, focus in 2025

NCSA is leading the way in AI research support, partnering with the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Pilot and the NSF-Simons SkAI Institute. The organization is also working on healthcare projects like MarginDX, combining optical imaging technologies with AI screening tools to ensure accurate tumor removal during sur...

SourceNational Center for Supercomputing Applications·DateDec 20, 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.

Programming cells: Revolutionizing genetic circuits with cutting-edge RNA tools

The team developed a Synthetic Translational Coupling Element (SynTCE) that enhances the precision and integration density of genetic circuits in synthetic biology. This allows for more efficient gene circuit integration, minimizing interference between biological parts and enabling precise control over multiple genes.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateDec 20, 2024

Tiny antennas on cells offer new ALS insights

A recent study suggests that tiny antenna-like structures on cells called primary cilia could be a potential therapeutic target for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Researchers have identified mutations in the C21orf2 gene, which impair primary cilia formation and structure, leading to motor neuron death.

SourceVlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2024

Researchers discovered replication hubs for human norovirus

Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine have identified liquid-like condensates as replication hubs for human norovirus. These biomolecular structures are dynamic and can merge or divide, exchanging materials with their surroundings.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 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.

Dripstones offer insights into climate dynamics in Europe

A research team led by Dr Sophie Warken analyzed dripstones from the Cloşani Cave in Romania to understand precipitation variability over a period of approximately 20,000 years. The findings show that dynamic processes like the North Atlantic jet stream influence regional changes in precipitation.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateDec 20, 2024

Disparities and gaps in breast cancer screening for women ages 40 to 49

A recent study found that nearly two-fifths of women aged 40-49 did not receive biennial mammography screening, highlighting significant gaps in early detection. To optimize breast cancer detection, ensuring equitable adherence to U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations is crucial.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 20, 2024