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Science News for February 9, 2024


Moffitt develops first individualized predictive model for multiple myeloma treatment

Researchers develop a novel genomic classification system that categorizes patients into 12 distinct groups based on their underlying genomic profiles. The individualized risk model, IRMMa, uses advanced statistical methodologies to generate tailored predictions of patient response to different therapies.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 9, 2024

Global study: Wild megafauna shape ecosystem properties

A global meta-analysis of six continents reveals that large wild herbivores have a significant impact on ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem variability. The study found that megafauna communities with larger herbivores tend to have positive effects on local plant diversity, while smaller species communities decrease it.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 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.

Discoveries can be used to optimize production of annatto powder

A study by Brazilian researchers reveals that bixin, a carotenoid pigment extracted from annatto tree seeds, is also present in other organs. Genetic analysis and modifications found increased production of the pigment in the adult phase and linked to stress-related hormone abscisic acid.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateFeb 9, 2024

How electron spectroscopy measures exciton “holes”

Scientists use a special microscope to break up the bond between electrons and holes in semiconductors, revealing that hole interactions determine charge transfer processes. The findings have implications for future computer and photovoltaic technologies.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024

New fossil site of worldwide importance uncovered in southern France

The Cabrières Biota, a new fossil site in southern France, has revealed unprecedented information on polar ecosystems during the Ordovician period. The discovery of over 400 fossils provides insights into the composition of southernmost ecosystems and serves as a refuge for species that escaped high temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 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.

New study shows nutritional epigenetics education improves diet and attitude in parents of children with autism and ADHD

Parents who received nutritional epigenetics education reduced ultra-processed food consumption and increased whole organic foods intake, leading to improved behavior and cognition in their children. The education intervention also reduced heavy metal exposures and dietary deficits that disrupt gene function.

SourceFood Ingredient and Health Research Institute·JournalWorld Journal of Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 9, 2024

Innovative coating prevents limescale formation

A team of researchers from ETH Zurich has developed a special coating that prevents limescale formation by using microscopically small ridges to prevent the adhesion of limescale crystals. The coating is biocompatible, environmentally friendly, and more efficient than existing approaches.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.

Quitting smoking at any age brings big health benefits, fast: study

A new study by University of Toronto researchers found that quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of death from vascular disease and cancer. Former smokers can expect to live up to six years longer after quitting, with benefits seen within just three years.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNEJM Evidence·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2024

Certain older Americans show hesitation around brain scan research

A Rutgers Health-led study found that South Asian and East Asian older adults are less likely to believe in the benefits of participating in health research studies without direct personal gain. This hesitation may lead to a lack of representation in research, affecting the development of dementia treatments.

SourceRutgers University·JournalTranslational Research·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 9, 2024

Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variant JN.1 raises concerns with increased transmissibility and immune evasion

The newly identified SARS-CoV-2 variant JN.1 exhibits increased transmissibility and immune evasion due to its distinct genetic mutations, posing a significant threat to public health. The variant has already surpassed other strains in several countries, including France and Spain.

SourceThe Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

Pioneering technique reveals new layer of human gene regulation

A new study reveals that backtracking, a molecular event, occurs frequently throughout the genome and influences thousands of human genes. Persistent backtracking is linked to various biological processes, including cell division and tissue development.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.

Yale joins the ‘Snowball’ fight over global deep freeze periods

A Yale-led research team suggests that large asteroids could have triggered 'Snowball Earth' events, where the planet's surface was covered in ice for thousands of years. The study found that asteroid strikes could have tipped Earth into a state with sea ice thickness of up to 10 meters, even if initial climate conditions were already ...

SourceYale University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2024

Robotic-assisted surgery and navigation don't affect infection risk after hip arthroplasty

A recent study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery suggests that robotic-assisted surgery and surgical navigation techniques do not significantly increase the risk of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The researchers analyzed data from nearly 13,000 patients undergoing THA between 201...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 9, 2024

Helping predict cold-blooded animals' response to environmental shifts

Researchers have created the DEBBIES dataset to enhance understanding of cold-blooded animals' responses to novel environmental shifts. The dataset contains estimates of eight life history traits for 185 ectotherm species, allowing users to develop general predictions on animal responses using a few key characteristics.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScientific Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 9, 2024

Having COVID-19 and Long COVID can impact women’s sex lives

A Boston University study of over 2,000 cisgender women found that COVID-19 can impair sexual function, with long COVID having a detrimental effect on arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and pain scores. Women with long COVID had markedly worse sexual well-being, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to address this taboo topic.

SourceBoston University·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 9, 2024

Towards a natural prosthetic hand: A study published in Med has developed a temperature-sensitive prosthetic limb that improves amputee interactions and feelings of human connection

A temperature-sensitive prosthetic limb has been developed to improve amputee interactions and feelings of human connection. Researchers have created a device called MiniTouch that provides realistic and real-time thermal feedback, enabling amputees to discriminate between objects of different temperatures and materials.

SourceSant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa·JournalMed·TypeCase study·DateFeb 9, 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.

From growing roots, clues to how stem cells decide their fate

Researchers at Duke University have discovered how stem cells decide their fate by analyzing the activity of two key regulators, short-root and scarecrow, in real-time using light sheet microscopy. This finding has implications for understanding cell development and preventing diseases such as cancer.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 9, 2024

Reducing diabetes medication costs can help improve outcomes, especially for low-income patients

A new study found that reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes can lead to improved health outcomes, particularly among those living in lower-income areas. The study showed a 10.2% decrease in preventable diabetes complications among PDL members from lower-income areas compared to the control group.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Health Forum·DateFeb 9, 2024

Migration solves exoplanet puzzle

Research suggests that planetary migration is the key to explaining the mysterious gap in the size distribution of super-Earths. Simulations show that sub-Neptunes' evolution contributes to the observed radius valley, while rocky planets 'shrink' by losing their atmosphere.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Astronomy·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 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.

Long-term brain structure and cognition following bariatric surgery

Researchers found that bariatric surgery led to improved cognition and overall well-being two years after the procedure. The study revealed changes in blood vessel efficiency and cortical thickness of the temporal cortex, offering new treatment options for patients with obesity and dementia.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 9, 2024

An anticancer drug opens a new path for the treatment of Parkinson's

A study reveals that Rucaparib and its metabolite M324 have differentiated activities, with M324 reducing α-synuclein accumulation in neurons from Parkinson's patients. This synergy could lead to new opportunities for treating prostate cancer and potentially developing treatments for Parkinson's.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalCell Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024

Surprising behavior in one of the least studied mammals in the world

A population of Baird's beaked whales has been found in shallow water near the coast, deviating from the typical deep-sea habitat. The study suggests that social learning plays a role in their behavior, with individuals following peers to discover valuable resources.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 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.

New insights in the regulation of genetic information exchange

A study published in Nature Plants reveals that chromosome pairing plays a crucial role in regulating genetic material distribution in plants. Researchers found that the telomeres, specifically located at the ends of chromosomes, are the key players in controlling crossing-over activity, which ensures genetic diversity among offspring.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024

New strategy for safer CAR T cell therapy in lymphomas

Researchers develop a new strategy to make CAR T cell therapy more effective and safer by targeting multiple surface proteins on malignant tumour cells. The approach shows promise in fighting cancer cells while sparing healthy B lymphocytes.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

Molecular manganese complex as superphotooxidant

Scientists have created a new molecular system based on manganese that can oxidize various organic substrates and emit NIR-II light after excitation. The complex has two different photoactive states, one of which is extremely oxidizing and exists only briefly, while the other is moderately oxidizing and longer-lived.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 9, 2024

This ultrasound sticker senses changing stiffness of deep internal organs

A small, wearable ultrasound sticker can monitor organ stiffness and detect subtle changes that signal disease progression. The device has been shown to identify early signs of acute liver failure in rats and may one day help doctors diagnose internal organ failure more effectively.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2024

New test for improving population-based colorectal cancer screening

A new stool test, multitargetFIT-test (mtFIT), detects cancer precursors more effectively than the current FIT test, predicting a reduction in new cases of colorectal cancer and mortality. The new test yields more true-positive results without an increase in 'false-positive' results.

SourceNetherlands Cancer Institute·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Finding cannibalized stars

Researchers have directly detected the feeble glow of cannibalized stars, revealing a key stage in the lives of close stellar pairs. The study identifies new orbits of stripped subdwarf stars around fast-spinning massive stars, shedding light on star formation and evolution.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 9, 2024

Researchers discover cosmic dust storms from Type Ia supernova

A study led by Chinese astronomers identified a previously unknown source of cosmic dust in the universe: Type Ia supernovae interacting with gas from their surroundings. The researchers found that these events create significant amounts of dust, which could be a dominant source of dust in elliptical galaxies.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 9, 2024

Immune genes are altered in Alzheimer’s patients’ blood

A Northwestern University study found epigenetic changes in Alzheimer's patients' blood that increase the risk of the disease. The researchers discovered altered immune genes and proteins in the blood that could be triggered by previous viral infections or environmental pollutants, potentially leading to brain damage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.

An innovative approach to shield against foodborne illness

The University of Missouri researchers are developing new technology to rapidly detect and mitigate salmonella and other foodborne pathogens throughout the entire poultry supply chain. The team aims to significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness in people, with rapid results that can be produced in one hour or less.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 9, 2024

IPIAD: an augmentation to standard treatment of PDAC using five repurposed drugs

Researchers propose a novel augmentation regimen, IPIAD, combining five generic non-oncology drugs with standard chemotherapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The IPIAD regimen uses repurposed drugs like irbesartan and azithromycin to potentially slow disease growth and improve outcomes.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncoscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 9, 2024

New: Recommendations for imaging in crystal-induced arthropathies

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has introduced new guidelines for imaging in the diagnosis and management of crystal-induced arthropathies. The recommendations prioritize patient-centered care, emphasizing the importance of medical history, laboratory results, and physical examination alongside imaging fi...

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateFeb 9, 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.

Novel technique has potential to transform breast cancer detection

A novel imaging technique, low-dose positron emission mammography (PEM), shows promise in transforming breast cancer detection by providing high sensitivity and low false positive rates. PEM could potentially decrease healthcare costs and reduce unnecessary procedures for patients with dense breasts.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology Imaging Cancer·DateFeb 9, 2024

Surprisingly vibrant colour of 12-million-year-old snail shells

Scientists have found polyene pigments in fossilized snail shells that are 12 million years old, providing the world's first evidence of intact pigments in fossils. The discovery was made possible by analyzing the pigments using Raman spectroscopy and sheds new light on the chemical composition of ancient organisms.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPalaeontology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024

Making AI a partner in neuroscientific discovery

A new paper argues that LLMs can interpret and analyze neuroscientific data, unlocking new insights and potential treatments. Lead author Danilo Bzdok suggests that scientists may not always fully understand the mechanism behind biological processes discovered by LLMs.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 9, 2024

Innovations in depth from focus/defocus pave the way to more capable computer vision systems

A new depth from focus/defocus approach, DDFS, combines model-based and learning-based strategies to achieve notable improvements in performance and applicability. The proposed method outperformed state-of-the-art methods in various metrics for several image datasets.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Computer Vision·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 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.

Research reveals the key to an irresistible online dating profile

A recent study found that people are more satisfied in relationships where they feel like they are being supported, rather than when they feel like they know their partner. By highlighting what you want to be known by a potential partner, you can increase your appeal on dating sites.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2024

New AI tool discovers realistic 'metamaterials' with unusual properties

Researchers develop deep learning models to solve inverse problems in metamaterial design, considering durability and manufacturing limitations. The AI tool discovers novel materials with extreme properties, enabling new applications in orthopaedic implants, soft robots, and more.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 9, 2024

Harnessing human evolution to advance precision medicine

A gene variant in Andean people is associated with reduced red blood cell count, enabling them to thrive at high altitude. The study aims to understand genetic differences underlying variation in oxygen saturation among COPD patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2024