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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 20


Page 20 of 38

To appreciate music, the human brain listens and learns to predict

Researchers at University of California - San Francisco have developed a precise map of what is happening in the brain’s auditory cortex when someone hears a melody. The study found that some aspects of music are entwined with how we understand speech, while other important aspects stand alone. The brain uses two sets of neurons to ass...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 16, 2024

Under pressure - space exploration in our time

The commercial space sector has seen significant growth, with over 2,660 satellites launched into orbit in recent years. International collaborations are also expanding, enabling diverse perspectives and new ideas to emerge in science and space exploration.

SourceETH Zurich·DateFeb 16, 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.

Moffitt study finds neoadjuvant chemotherapy significantly improves outcomes for penile squamous cell carcinoma patients

A large retrospective cohort analysis found that neoadjuvant chemotherapy improved overall and progression-free survival for locally advanced penile squamous cell carcinoma patients. The study also showed that platinum-based chemotherapy was well-tolerated, with low treatment-related mortality.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 16, 2024

Self-monitoring improves physical activity of care-needing elderly

A study published in European Geriatric Medicine found that self-monitoring with an accelerometer and feedback significantly improved physical activity among elderly individuals requiring long-term care. The intervention group took more steps, spent less time sitting, and engaged in light physical activity compared to the control group.

SourceKobe University·JournalEuropean Geriatric Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 16, 2024

Globally, women in labor are overtreated. The consequences are dire

A new analysis reveals that approximately 30-90% of first-time mothers worldwide receive medical augmentation with oxytocin, despite only 10-15% experiencing prolonged labor. This excessive treatment increases the risk of stillbirths, brain damage, and complications for subsequent pregnancies.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalBMJ·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 15, 2024

Why we hate to wait

A study by Annabelle Roberts explores the internal negotiations that occur when people feel impatient, including the desire for closure. The research finds that people become more impatient as their wait nears an end and offers lessons for marketers to make waiting less annoying.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 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.

Asexual propagation of crop plants gets closer

Researchers at the University of Zurich have discovered a signal that activates the female gamete in thale cress, a model plant species. This breakthrough could lead to the development of apomixis, a form of asexual reproduction that would allow crop plants to be propagated more easily and efficiently.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Health and zombie cells in aging

Researchers at Mayo Clinic shed light on the biology of zombie cells and their link to aging-related health issues. A study found that specific senescent biomarkers can predict mortality beyond chronological age and chronic disease presence.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAging Cell·DateFeb 15, 2024

Helping caregivers help people with dementia eat at home

A new study suggests that caregivers can establish a safe and workable mealtime routine for people with dementia living at home by reducing distractions, clearing away clutter, and leveraging community-based nutrition programs. The strategies aim to address the complex factors surrounding mealtime in the home, including cognitive impai...

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateFeb 15, 2024

Predicting optical fibers failures

A study demonstrates the potential of transceiver-based sensing for actively monitoring and improving the stability of fiber networks. Researchers used a coherent transceiver prototype to detect polarization changes that preceded a cable break in a live network, showing promise for real-time monitoring and proactive network management.

SourceOptica·DateFeb 15, 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.

Burnout: identifying people at risk

A new study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology has developed a tool to identify individuals at high risk of burnout. The Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) measures four main groups of risk factors, including exhaustion, mental distancing, cognitive impairment, and emotional impairment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalScandinavian Journal of Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 2024

New nuclei can help shape our understanding of fundamental science on Earth and in the cosmos

A team of researchers has successfully created five new isotopes at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams, bringing the stars closer to Earth. These isotopes, known as thulium-182, thulium-183, ytterbium-186, ytterbium-187 and lutetium-190, represent a significant milestone in nuclear science and offer new opportunities for experimentation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Reforestation programs could threaten vast area of tropical grasslands

A new study by the University of Liverpool warns that reforestation initiatives can harm wildlife and ecosystems if not done properly. The research highlights issues with tree-planting in non-forest systems, such as savannas and grasslands, which are under threat from increased tree cover.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalScience·DateFeb 15, 2024

Diverse ancient volcanoes on Mars discovered by HKU planetary scientist may hold clues to pre-plate tectonic activity on Earth

A recent study by Professor Joseph Michalski and his team has revealed a vast number of diverse volcanoes in Mars' ancient crust, including lava domes, stratovolcanoes, calderas, and large shields of ash. These findings suggest that intense volcanism occurred on ancient Mars, causing the crust to collapse into the mantle.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Antidepressant use lower in moms who have support from grandparents

A new study of 488,000 Finnish mothers found that those with healthy, near-by grandparents were less likely to take antidepressants. In contrast, antidepressant use was highest among mothers whose grandparents were elderly and lived far away due to stress from caring for them.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalPopulation Studies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Using written records – and tweets – as a roadmap for plant disease spread

A study using historic and modern writing reveals more information about the effects and spread of Phytophthora infestans, a plant pathogen that caused the 1840s Irish potato famine. Researchers tracked the disease's spread across the US and Canada, finding it affected multiple states and provinces between 1843-45.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 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.

Using cannabis can ease cravings for street-level drugs, UBC research suggests

Research suggests cannabis can help manage stimulant cravings in individuals at risk of overdose, with a notable reduction in crystal meth use observed among those who used cannabis for craving management. Further investigation is needed to understand the full potential of cannabis in addressing the overdose crisis.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateFeb 15, 2024

Why do(n’t) people support being nudged towards healthier diets?

A study by the Universities of Göttingen and Bonn found that reducing effort required to opt out of nudged options and increasing transparency of the nudge significantly improved public support for these interventions. The perception of upholding free choice and effectiveness were key drivers of acceptance.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 15, 2024

Increased access to opioids, shrinking economic safety net boost U.S. suicide rates

A new University of Colorado Boulder study suggests that increased access to potentially lethal prescription opioids has made it easier for women to end their lives. The study also found that a shrinking federal safety net has contributed to rising suicide rates during tough economic times, particularly among all adults.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 2024

Neolithic groups from the south of the Iberian Peninsula first settled permanently in San Fernando (Cadiz) 6,200 years ago

The first Neolithic farmers and shepherds in Andalusia settled permanently on the island of San Fernando, Cadiz, 6,200 years ago. They collected and consumed shellfish throughout the year, with a greater exploitation during the colder months of autumn, winter, and early spring.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalArchaeological and Anthropological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Telehealth is as safe as a visit to the clinic for abortion pills

A large national study of over 6,000 patients found that video visits, texting and mailing pills were effective and safe for medication abortion. The research supports the safety and efficacy of telemedicine abortion, which has become increasingly important due to clinic closures and wait times.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 15, 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.

App shows 25% fewer emergency hospital admissions from care homes

A study conducted by Newcastle University found that using a smartphone application to monitor residents in care homes reduced A&E attendances by 11% and emergency admissions by 25%. The app, Health Call, provided real-time data to enable early identification of deterioration and better management of illnesses.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAge and Ageing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 15, 2024

New peer-reviewed EWG study finds little-known toxic crop chemical in four out of five people tested

A new EWG study has found chlormequat, a little-known pesticide, in 77% of urine samples from people tested between 2017 and 2023. The chemical is linked to reproductive and developmental problems in animal studies, suggesting potential harm to humans. EWG calls for increased research and regulation on chlormequat.

SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 15, 2024

An important molecular pathway for control of aging is discovered

Researchers found that dysregulation of RNA transfer between cells in different tissues shortens lifespan in roundworms. They demonstrated that this phenomenon, termed Intercellular/Extracellular Systemic RNA imbalance (InExS), can be caused by an increase in RNA uptake from the environment, leading to a reduction in organism's lifespan.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGene·DateFeb 15, 2024

New GSA publication addresses dementia care in adults with I/DD

The new publication aims to help health care providers detect and address changes in function and cognition that might indicate dementia in an adult with I/DD. It also highlights the need to establish baseline levels of function and cognition for this population to effectively identify changes.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateFeb 15, 2024

New genetic therapy holds promise for ALS and frontotemporal dementia

Scientists have developed a single-dose genetic medicine that halts the progression of both ALS and frontotemporal dementia in mice. The treatment targets pathological TDP-43 build-ups in brain cells, which may also treat common forms of dementia like Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 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.

A star like a Matryoshka doll: New theory for gravastars

Physicists at Goethe University Frankfurt have proposed a new solution to Einstein's field equations, describing the existence of 'nestars' - gravastars inside another gravastar. The 'nestar' has a thicker shell than previous theories, making it easier to imagine its existence.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalClassical and Quantum Gravity·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 15, 2024

When it comes to bad breath, some bacterial interactions really stink

Researchers from Osaka University discovered that a specific bacterial interaction causes the production of methyl mercaptan, a major contributor to bad breath. The interaction between Streptococcus gordonii and Fusobacterium nucleatum leads to increased methyl mercaptan production, which is driven by methionine metabolism.

SourceOsaka University·JournalmSystems·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

New treatment for a rare and aggressive cancer improves survival rates in breakthrough clinical trial

A new treatment combining a novel drug with traditional chemotherapy has been shown to increase the survival of patients with malignant mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. The ATOMIC-meso trial found that this treatment quadrupled the survival at 36 months compared to placebo-chemotherapy.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 15, 2024

Rapid detection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria

A rapid diagnosis protocol using a luminescent paper-based platform has been developed to detect the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The approach uses a supramolecular hydrogel matrix containing terbium cholate that emits green fluorescence when UV light is shined on it.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 15, 2024

A new design for quantum computers

Natalia Chepiga's new design for quantum computers allows for more complex simulations and enables the creation of a 'steering wheel' to tune into interesting phenomena. This upgrade will facilitate breakthroughs in understanding nature and revolutionize society, with applications in finance, encryption, and data storage.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 15, 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.

Shuffling the deck for privacy

A KAUST research team has developed a machine-learning approach that balances privacy preservation and model performance using ensemble privacy-preserving algorithms. The approach, called PPML-Omics, achieves better model performance while keeping the same level of privacy protection compared to previous methods.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 15, 2024

With just a little electricity, MIT researchers boost common catalytic reactions

MIT researchers found that applying a small voltage to a catalyst can significantly increase the rates of non-redox chemical reactions used in petrochemical processing and pharmaceutical manufacture. This discovery has the potential to transform our understanding of catalysis and design new reactors to take advantage of this phenomenon.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 15, 2024

Study finds new inhalable therapy is a big step forward in lung cancer research

Researchers at Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new inhalable therapy that delivers IL-12 mRNA directly to the lungs, demonstrating potential as a tumor suppressor. The therapy uses nanobubbles called exosomes to deliver the mRNA, which kickstarts lung immune cells to fight cancer.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 15, 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.

Pusan National University researchers reveal how diabetes weakens gum defense

Researchers from Pusan National University discovered a link between diabetes and periodontitis, showing pro-inflammatory cytokines rise in classical monocytes. The study highlights the systemic impact of these conditions on immune regulation and suggests a potential therapeutic target to reduce diabetes risk.

SourcePusan National University·JournalClinical and Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

First-ever atomic freeze-frame of liquid water

Researchers develop X-ray attosecond transient absorption spectroscopy in liquids to study electron movement and newly ionized molecules. The technique resolves a long-standing debate about the structural shapes of water, demonstrating conclusively that signals are not evidence for two distinct motifs.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 15, 2024

1,000 atomic qubits and rising

Researchers at TU Darmstadt have successfully demonstrated a quantum-processing architecture with over 1,000 individually controllable atomic qubits. This breakthrough enables the development of highly beneficial applications in fields such as drug development and traffic optimization.

SourceTechnische Universitat Darmstadt·JournalOptica·DateFeb 15, 2024

Researchers observe highly excited ‘roaming’ energy pathway in chemical reactions

Chemical reactions were long thought to occur along minimum energy paths. However, researchers have now observed 'roaming' reactions that stray from this path even in highly excited energy states. This discovery has significant implications for understanding atmospheric chemistry and the production of molecular oxygen.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalScience·DateFeb 15, 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.

Oxygen increased in the tropical ocean during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum

Researchers found that oxygen availability increased in shallow subsurface waters despite global warming during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. This increase was consistent with predictions from ocean circulation models, which suggest a compensation effect may help explain moderate levels of extinction observed during this period.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 15, 2024

New study offers hope for thousands impacted each year by aggressive brain cancer

Researchers at the University of Sussex discovered a protein called PANK4 that blocks glioblastoma cancer cells from responding to chemotherapy. Removing the protein leads to improved treatment outcomes and increased life expectancy for patients, with potential for developing a new drug targeting this obstacle.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Hispanic patients with respiratory failure much more likely to be oversedated

A new study found that Hispanic patients with moderate to severe ARDS were more likely to be deeply sedated while on a ventilator, spending nearly 75% of their days in deep sedation. This disparity may be driven by factors such as language barriers, cultural differences, and implicit bias in clinical decision making.

SourceNew York University·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateFeb 15, 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.

Methane emissions from wetlands increase significantly over high latitudes

Researchers from Berkeley Lab found significant increases in wetland methane emissions in Arctic and Boreal ecosystems, with emissions rising by approximately nine percent since 2002. Temperature and plant productivity were identified as major drivers of these changes, highlighting the urgent need to quantify natural sources of methane.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 15, 2024

Scientists develop color-changing dyes that light up cellular activity and enable “time travel” within cells

Researchers have created fluorescent, colour-changing dyes that can visualise multiple distinct biological environments using only one dye. These dyes enable 'time travel' within cells by allowing scientists to distinguish between cellular and delivery vessel environments in real-time. The breakthrough has significant implications for ...

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalChem·DateFeb 15, 2024

Root microbes may be the secret to a better tasting cup of tea

Researchers found that root microbes can boost theanine levels and improve amino acid content in tea plants, leading to better-tasting tea. The discovery could help reduce chemical fertilizer use and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 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.

Searching for clues in the history book of the ocean

During the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), ocean oxygen levels in tropical waters rose, preserving habitability despite temperature stress. This increase helped mitigate mass extinctions in surface ocean ecosystems.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Studies with more diverse teams of authors get more citations

A recent study by the University of Surrey analyzed articles published in the Journal of Management Studies over the last decade and found that diverse research teams lead to more citations. The study reveals that internationality, interdisciplinarity, and gender diversity among authors all contribute to increased citation rates.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateFeb 15, 2024

Electrons screen against conductivity-killer in organic semiconductors

Scientists at University of Utah and University of Massachusetts Amherst uncover the physics behind dopant-polymer interactions that explain inconsistent conductivity issues in organic materials. The discovery reveals that a critical mass of electrons triggers collective screening, allowing rest of electrons to flow unimpeded.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

PSEP: an innovative wearable device for fashionable personal thermal comfort

Researchers develop PSEP, a compact and silent wearable thermal control device that offers real-time flow-rate monitoring and self-sensing capability. The device can adjust temperatures by up to 3°C, enhancing personal comfort and features an intuitive smartphone interface for seamless wireless control.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 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.