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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 16


Page 16 of 38

Nature’s checkup: Surveying biodiversity with environmental DNA sequencing

A study published in Environmental DNA analyzed seawater samples from the Ogasawara Islands, detecting 124 unique fish species and 38 coral genera. The research highlights the importance of monitoring biodiversity in remote regions using efficient methods like eDNA sequencing.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalEnvironmental DNA·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 20, 2024

Terahertz biosensor detects skin cancer with remarkable accuracy, ushering in new era of early detection

A new terahertz biosensor has been developed to detect skin cancer with exceptional sensitivity, leveraging the unique properties of THz waves. The device analyzes a combination of parameters to provide a richer picture of tissue, allowing for accurate differentiation between healthy and cancerous cells.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 20, 2024

Physically impaired primates find ways to modify their behaviours to compensate for their disabilities, according to Concordia researchers

Studies reveal how primates modify behaviors to care for themselves and others despite physical disabilities. Behavioral flexibility is crucial, allowing them to adjust species-typical behaviors and innovate new ways to participate in daily activities.

SourceConcordia University·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 20, 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.

Can a single brain region encode familiarity and recollection?

Researchers discovered a single population of neurons in the CA2 area of the hippocampus can use different codes to represent familiar and unfamiliar individuals. This finding may shed light on disorders affecting memory such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

New study: Defining the progeria phenome

Researchers have defined what a premature aging disease is and developed tools to diagnose progeria patients, allowing them to identify new syndromes. The study also identified correlations between progeroid syndromes and other conditions, providing a significant step forward in understanding premature aging.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2024

If your TV spoke to you, would you buy it? Study finds people spend more on some “talking products”

Researchers at Indiana University Kelley School of Business found that AI-driven products with human-like features, such as eyes and speech, can influence consumers' perceptions and decision-making. The study suggests that complex products are more likely to trigger anthromorphism, leading to increased willingness to pay.

SourceIndiana University·JournalDecision Support Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Large, diverse genetic study of glaucoma implicates vascular and cancer-related genes

A large, diverse genetic study identified novel genetic locations associated with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The study implicated vascular and cancer-related genes in POAG risk, with 20% of associated genes related to primary cilia.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 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.

First-ever report of Nesting of incredibly rare and endangered giant turtle

A team of conservationists has made the first-ever report of a breeding population of an incredibly rare turtle in India. The Cantor's Giant Softshell Turtle was discovered in the Chandragiri River in Kerala using local knowledge from villagers, who shared tales of historical sightings and provided leads on current occurrences.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalOryx·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Common hair loss and prostate drug may also cut heart disease risk in men and mice

A new study suggests that finasteride, a common hair loss and prostate drug, may also lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular disease risk in men. In mice, the researchers found significant correlations between finasteride use and lower cholesterol levels, as well as reduced inflammation and atherosclerosis progression.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateFeb 20, 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.

Stemming colorectal cancer in Latin America

A recent study reveals the lack of colorectal cancer screening programs in low-middle-income countries, but successful implementation in high-middle-income Latin American nations. High-middle-income countries achieved high uptake of screening, with over 75% receiving colonoscopies following positive stool test results.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 20, 2024

Study shows UK offshores emissions through used vehicle exports

A UK study using mandatory annual vehicle inspections found exported used vehicles generated at least 13-53% more carbon dioxide per mile than those on British roads or in scrap yards. The researchers called for the UK's world-leading vehicle emissions standards to be applied to all exported vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2024

Fixing rogue brain cells may hold key to preventing neurodegeneration

A team at Case Western Reserve University has identified a key protein regulator that, when inhibited, can prevent the formation of harmful astrocytes. Administering medications that specifically target this protein may prevent the development of dangerous astrocytes and increase nerve cell survival in mouse models.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 20, 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.

The Radcliffe Wave is waving

Astronomers have discovered a massive, wave-shaped structure in the Milky Way, which is oscillating through space-time. The Radcliffe Wave is approximately 9,000 light years long and moves like a traveling wave, with star clusters along its path moving up and down.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2024

Unlike men, for professional women, having high-status connections can backfire

Women with high-status contacts actually lose status, whereas men benefit from their networks. Researchers found that women who form ties with higher-status people are seen as dominant and subject to social penalties. Organizations can take steps to reframe network building activities to protect the status perception of women.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalOrganization Science·DateFeb 20, 2024

Cobalt-free electrodes achieved with nickel ions

Scientists at Yokohama National University have created a new type of lithium-ion battery using nickel ions, which can be used in electric vehicles without the need for cobalt. The material overcomes key stability issues by suppressing nickel-ion migration and achieving consistent reversibility.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateFeb 20, 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.

High fidelity spatial mode quantum gates enabled by diffractive neural networks

Scientists have developed a method to construct high-dimensional quantum gates using diffractive neural networks, exhibiting ultrahigh fidelities. They successfully implemented various quantum gates and demonstrated the applicability of their approach by performing complex operations like the Deutsch algorithm.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateFeb 20, 2024

Photon-counting CT improves coronary artery disease assessment

A new study published in Radiology found that ultrahigh-spatial-resolution photon-counting detector CT improved the assessment of coronary artery disease, allowing for reclassification to a lower disease category in 54% of patients. This technology has the potential to improve patient management and reduce unnecessary interventions.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateFeb 20, 2024

Helping patients with low income overcome eating disorders

A new study suggests that individuals with low income are frequently misdiagnosed and lack access to effective treatment for eating disorders. Researchers offer guidelines for therapists to make accommodations for these patients, including providing government or local food resources and engaging with local food banks.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalThe Cognitive Behaviour Therapist·DateFeb 20, 2024

Smiling is the secret to seeing happiness, new research reveals

A study by Dr Sebastian Korb at the University of Essex found that a brief weak grin makes faces appear more joyful, creating the illusion of happiness. The research used electrical stimulation to spark smiles and has potential for future clinical applications.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 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.

Could ultra-processed foods be the new ‘silent’ killer?

Frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods in the US diet is associated with increased rates of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal diseases. This may be attributed to additives such as emulsifiers that can disrupt the balance of gut microbiota, leading to disease promotion.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalThe American Journal of Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 20, 2024

Nanoparticles containing natural substance treat visceral leishmaniasis with scant side effects

Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a novel technique using lipid nanoparticles to administer lupeol, killing Leishmania protozoan parasites. The therapy eliminated parasites from organs in animal tests, reducing spleen and liver parasite numbers by 99.9% with minimal side effects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPharmaceuticals·DateFeb 20, 2024

Red light can reduce blood glucose levels, says study

A study found that 670 nanometres of red light stimulated energy production within mitochondria, leading to increased glucose consumption and a 27.7% reduction in blood glucose levels. This non-invasive technique has the potential to impact diabetes control by reducing damaging fluctuations of blood glucose.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of Biophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Energy poverty in Canada

Research reveals that energy poverty is a significant issue in Canada, with implications for population health and climate resilience. The study found that households facing energy poverty are more likely to experience poorer self-rated general and mental health, as well as higher levels of illness and hospitalization.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCanadian Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 20, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unravelling the genetic and environmental influences on trust

A new study found that genetic factors contribute around 33% to the variation in levels of trust among individuals, while life circumstances such as age, health, and relationship status also increase trust. The research used twin studies to disentangle genetic and environmental influences on trust.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 20, 2024

Science fiction meets reality: USF researchers develop technique to overcome obstructed views

Researchers at the University of South Florida have created an algorithm that can reconstruct a hidden scene in 3D using an ordinary digital camera, enabling users to see around obstacles. The technology has broad applications in various fields, including car safety, law enforcement, and military efforts.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 20, 2024

Paresthesia symptoms negatively impact spinal surgery satisfaction

Researchers found that 86 patients experienced severe residual paresthesia after spinal surgery, leading to lower satisfaction rates. Patients with pre-surgical pain were more likely to have persistent paresthesia, highlighting the need for treatment strategies for this condition.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalSpine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 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.

HPV vaccination among young adults before and during the pandemic

The study found that HPV vaccination coverage did not increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating pandemic-related disruptions in initiating the vaccine. This suggests that efforts to promote HPV vaccination among young adults may need to be continued and strengthened.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 20, 2024

Study examines medical mystery of child hepatitis outbreak

A University of Sydney study sheds light on the 2022 child hepatitis outbreak, finding that 'helper virus' infections were likely the cause. The study reveals that over 3,000 cases were reported globally, with six percent requiring liver transplants.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Infection·DateFeb 20, 2024

Ancient DNA reveals Down syndrome in past human societies

Researchers identified six cases of Down syndrome and one case of Edwards syndrome in ancient human remains from Spain, Bulgaria, Finland, and Greece dating back to 4,500 years ago. The individuals were buried with care and special grave goods, indicating they were appreciated by their societies.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 20, 2024

New model identifies drugs that shouldn’t be taken together

Researchers developed a multipronged strategy to identify transporters used by different drugs, revealing potential interactions between commonly prescribed antibiotics and blood thinners. The approach has the potential to improve patient treatment and predict potential toxicities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 20, 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.

Navigating Israeli security and foreign policy: Before and after October 7th

A new study conducted by Dr. Ofek Riemer finds that Jewish Israeli citizens experience decreased levels of security after exposure to the new defensive-oriented foreign policy approach, highlighting the importance of understanding the link between foreign policy and citizens' sense of security.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalPolitical Studies·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 20, 2024

Simulating tiny invaders

Scientists used Delta's GPU-based architecture to study the life cycle of the Hepatitis B virus, revealing how it binds human proteins called importins. The research provides a platform for developing inhibitors that could block this interaction and prevent the virus from accessing the nucleus.

SourceNational Center for Supercomputing Applications·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2024

Unlocking the energetic secrets of collective animal movement: How group behavior reduces energy costs in fish

A study by Harvard researchers found that fish group behavior can reduce energy costs by up to 50%, with coordinated movement allowing for more efficient swimming. By measuring the energetic cost of individual and group movements, the team discovered a J-shaped relationship between speed and energy expenditure.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournaleLife·DateFeb 20, 2024

Novel combination therapy offers promising results for treatment-refractory hepatoblastoma

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a novel combination therapy that produced encouraging results in animal models. The therapy, which includes an inhibitor of the enzyme histone deacetylase (HDAC), showed significant tumor shrinkage and reduced alpha fetoprotein levels after just one week of treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

Global health researcher digs into complex etiology of anemia in mothers and children

A recent study reveals a complex interaction of factors contributing to anemia, including dietary diversity, food insecurity, access to clean water, and infection/inflammation status. The findings suggest that interventions addressing multiple nutritional predictors can reduce anemia prevalence in high-risk populations.

SourceArnold School of Public Health·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateFeb 20, 2024

Road to better performing batteries using less critical raw materials

The researchers have developed a Na-ion battery containing organic materials that can charge quickly, store a large amount of energy, and last longer. They also improved the cathode material using design principles from previous studies, resulting in high-energy density and fast charging capabilities.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Study reveals molecular mechanisms behind hibernation in mammals

The study reveals changes in motor protein structure and energy consumption during hibernation, highlighting key differences between large and small hibernators. Myosin plays a crucial role in non-shivering thermogenesis, with smaller mammals experiencing increased ATP consumption at lower temperatures.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateFeb 20, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Angle-dependent holograms made possible by metasurfaces

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed angle-dependent holograms using metasurface technology, allowing for diverse images based on viewing angles. The holographic display demonstrates an extensive viewing angle of 70 degrees, enabling observers to perceive the three-dimensional image from various directions.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 20, 2024

Throwing lithography a curve

Researchers have developed a method called mask wafer co-optimization (MWCO) that allows for the creation of curved shapes using variable-shaped beam mask writers. This technique reduces wafer variation by 3x and improves the process window by 2x compared to existing methods.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateFeb 20, 2024

U of T-led study finds positive support from parents and clinicians for pediatric cancer pain management app

A recent study found that parents and clinicians are in favor of a mobile app to help manage child cancer pain at home. The app aims to ease the burden on caregivers and provide personalized pain management support. Recommendations for the app include improved accessibility, language options, and gamification features to involve children.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPLOS Digital Health·DateFeb 20, 2024

Scientists simulate Lahaina Fire to improve prediction of wildland-urban fires

Researchers used advanced computer models to simulate the Lahaina Fire, which killed 100 people and destroyed over 2,200 structures. The simulation showed how strong winds whipped up a brushfire and drove flames through neighborhoods, helping scientists develop more detailed predictions of wildfires in populated areas.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNatural Hazards and Earth System Sciences·DateFeb 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.

Bat ‘nightclubs’ may be the key to solving the next pandemic

Researchers at Texas A&M discovered that immune genes are frequently exchanged between Myotis bat species during seasonal mating swarms, potentially helping humans fight emerging diseases. The study's findings have opened new questions about the importance of hybridization in evolution and its impact on genomicists' knowledge.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalCell Genomics·DateFeb 20, 2024

Can it take just a few minutes to calculate how proteins interact with drugs?

Scientists from IOCB Prague have developed a universal and accurate new computational method to predict how proteins interact with drugs. The SQM2.20 scoring function yields DFT-quality predictions in minutes, significantly accelerating drug discovery.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 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.

Regulatory tech costs can have benefits, too

A new study by Zachary Kowaleski found that RegTech investments can have operational benefits for large broker-dealers, including improvements in customer relations and employee monitoring. However, small companies were more negatively affected, with profits dropping by an average of over 10 times the apparent savings.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 20, 2024

Researchers observe the structural heterogeneity of a lipid scramblase

TMEM16F, a transmembrane protein, exhibits a wide range of structural conformations that enable its diverse functions. The study reveals unexpected changes in dimerization interface and subunit arrangements, suggesting a dynamic and versatile mechanism for lipid scrambling and ion movement across the cell membrane.

SourceNano Life Science Institute (NanoLSI), Kanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024

VUB researchers assemble patterns of micro- and nanoparticles

VUB researchers have developed a method to arrange particles in a hexagonal pattern on hard surfaces, opening up new possibilities for sensors and electronics. The technique uses static electricity generated by rubbing particles across the surface, enabling dense packing of particles on conductive and non-conductive surfaces.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 20, 2024

New non-toxic method for producing high-quality graphene oxide

Researchers at Umea University have developed a new, non-toxic method to produce high-quality graphene oxide with significantly fewer defects. This breakthrough allows for the synthesis of defect-free graphene oxide using a simpler procedure than traditional methods, enabling various industrial applications.

SourceUmea University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024