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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 26


Page 26 of 38

Vaccine shows promise against CMV, a virus that causes birth defects

An experimental mRNA vaccine against CMV elicited promising immune responses, outperforming a previous vaccine candidate in preventing the virus from infecting epithelial cells. The new vaccine may protect adults against CMV, potentially preventing women from passing the infection to their babies during pregnancy.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 12, 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.

Interferon-gamma drives brain pathology in a mouse model of multiple system atrophy

In a mouse model of multiple system atrophy, alpha-synuclein overexpression induces neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. IFNγ produced by infiltrating CD4+ T-cells mediates these changes. The study suggests that IFNγ is a potential future disease-modifying therapeutic target.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Including socioeconomic status of patients in calculation of Medicare readmission penalties would reduce stress on safety-net hospitals

A new study suggests that including socioeconomic status in the calculation of Medicare readmission penalties would reduce penalty amounts for 38% of safety-net hospitals compared to 17% of non-safety net hospitals. This adjustment could help alleviate financial pressure on these hospitals, which often care for sicker patients with lim...

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of Vascular Surgery·DateFeb 12, 2024

Reshaping our understanding of granular systems

Scientists at the University of Rochester discovered that even small differences in grain shape can significantly alter grain segregation in dry and wet conditions. The study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research to better understand and predict geohazards and alleviate segregation issues in industrial flows.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Salt substitutes help to maintain healthy blood pressure in older adults

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that salt substitutes can help maintain healthy blood pressure in older adults. The study, which included 611 participants, showed that those using salt substitutes had a 40% lower incidence of hypertension compared to those using regular salt.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 12, 2024

Nutrients direct intestinal stem cell function and affect ageing

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered a new mechanism by which nutrient adaptation influences intestinal stem cell function and ageing. Intermittent fasting has been shown to benefit intestinal stem cells by preserving their flexible regulation, which is essential for differentiation.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 12, 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.

CRISPR-copies: New tool accelerates and optimizes genome editing

Researchers at CABBI developed a computational pipeline for identifying CRISPR/Cas-facilitated integration sites, which can pinpoint neutral integration sites in two to three minutes. This tool enables researchers to efficiently locate all the needles that align with their specific criteria, transforming the genome editing process.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Darting around with a tiny brain

Researchers discovered how insects navigate using limited brain power by simplifying complex problems through their behavior, a strategy that can be applied to robots and computers. A model of insect neuronal activity showed the robot successfully navigated in various environments, leading to potential improvements in energy efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 12, 2024

Personalized adhesives for inner healing – now tailored just for you

Researchers developed customized adhesive patches using mussel-derived proteins, exhibiting strong underwater adhesion, biocompatibility, and adjustable degradation time. These patches showed successful treatment in animal models, paving the way for personalized medical applications.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 12, 2024

‘I’m watching you’ behavior produces racial disparities in school discipline

A study by University of Notre Dame's Calvin Zimmermann found that early childhood teachers take an 'authoritarian approach' with Black boys and a more 'permissive approach' with white boys. This leads to heavier punishments, surveillance, and missed learning opportunities for Black students.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalSociology of Education·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 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.

Widespread machine learning methods behind ‘link prediction’ are performing very poorly

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz find that popular link prediction metrics are flawed and do not accurately measure algorithm performance. They recommend using a new metric, VCMPR, to benchmark link prediction tasks and highlight the importance of accurate metrics in machine learning decision-making.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2024

A flicker of truth: Piercing the “continuity illusion”

The study reveals that the superior colliculus is vital in the transition from seeing individual flashes to smooth motion, and may be a key component in creating the continuity illusion. Different methods of measuring the Flicker Fusion Frequency threshold suggest other parts of the brain also play a role in this process.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Scientists discover biological mechanism of hearing loss caused by loud noise – and find a way to prevent it

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a molecular mechanism behind noise-induced hearing loss, which affects millions of Americans. They found that excess zinc in the inner ear causes cellular damage and disrupts normal cell communication, leading to hearing loss.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2024

Researchers uncover a key link in legume plant-bacteria symbiosis

Legume plants have a unique ability to interact with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, allowing them to thrive without external nitrogen. Researchers identified four essential phosphorylation sites on the SYMRK kinase that mediate this symbiotic relationship.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Understanding chronic wasting disease in deer

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine sheds light on how Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) impacts the gut microbiome, providing a potential tool for disease surveillance. Researchers found that certain types of gut bacteria can differentiate between CWD-positive and -negative deer.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 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.

Overcoming fine process limits with linker ion affinity

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology employ linker ions to pioneer three-dimensional microprinting technology applicable to inorganic substances and other various materials. The team successfully crafts inorganic porous structures with dimensions below 10 μm without specialized equipment.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2024

University of Stirling study could lead to improved mussel production

A University of Stirling study found that genetic mixing changes local mussel populations, helping farmers with site selection and management. The research also identified key areas for growing mussel populations along Scotland's Atlantic coast.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 12, 2024

Customers prefer text over video to provide service feedback

A study found that customers are more willing to provide written compliments and complaints using AI-powered tablets rather than leaving videos. The researchers suggest that methods requiring 'low self-disclosure' would work better for customer feedback.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·DateFeb 12, 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.

Can hydrogels help mend a broken heart?

Researchers have created a hydrogel that can be used to heal damaged heart tissue and improve cancer treatments. The gel is made from cellulose nanocrystals derived from wood pulp and has a nanofibrous architecture that replicates the properties of human tissues.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2024

Sister cells uncover pre-existing resistant states in cancer

A new method reveals genes associated with proteostasis and mRNA surveillance as important for explaining treatment resistance. The approach also identifies DNA repair deficiency as a key factor sensitizing cells to chemotherapy, PARP inhibitors, and NK killing.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 12, 2024

Dartmouth researchers offer new insights into how antibodies function against HSV

Researchers at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine and Thayer School of Engineering have made significant breakthroughs in understanding how antibodies combat herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. The study reveals that antibody effector functions play a critical role in protecting against HSV, which may lead to new treatments for n...

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Under embargo: Risk of death 12% higher for non-White children in England

A new University of Bristol-led study finds that infants of non-White ethnicities are at a greater risk of death than their White counterparts. The analysis highlights the need to tackle factors driving infant mortality, with preterm birth being a significant contributor to this risk.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 12, 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.

New study finds life on land is more vulnerable to mass extinctions than life in the oceans and takes longer to recover

A new study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that the end-Triassic extinction had a greater impact on terrestrial ecosystems than marine ecosystems. Terrestrial ecosystems took longer to recover from mass extinction events, with higher extinction severity and fewer groups occupying key ecological roles.

SourceNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2024

Global taskforce of scientists develop a unifying framework for the human affectome

A global task force of scientists created an integrative framework to study emotions and moods, situating experiences within a single theoretical framework. This framework helps understand mental disorders like depression and anxiety, as well as decision-making and human behavior.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 12, 2024

Exposing hiding lymphoma cells to the immune system

Researchers identified a group of proteins that help cancer cells maintain genetic stability and avoid immune system detection. By depleting these proteins, they triggered an inflammatory response and made the cancer cells visible to the immune system.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 12, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Disadvantaged communities in Massachusetts twice as likely to have poor roads—and pay the cost in gas

A new study by University of Massachusetts Amherst engineers highlights the disproportionate impact of poorly maintained roads on residents in disadvantaged communities. The research found that these communities are twice as likely to have poor roads, leading to increased fuel consumption and higher costs for drivers.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2024

Novel bispecific design improves CAR T–cell immunotherapy for childhood leukemia

Researchers created an additional means for therapy to find and eliminate cancer cells using a small peptide, demonstrating better efficacy in lab tests and in vitro experiments. The study used computational analysis and predicted protein models to understand how structure impacts antigen recognition and therapy efficacy.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Creating safe spaces with and for Black girls

A study published in the Journal of Black Psychology found that creating spaces with and for Black girls can provide psychological safety. The Black Girl Magic Crew program validated participants' experiences, opinions, and encouraged explorations of self through specific curricular activities. This model can be used to create similar ...

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Black Psychology·DateFeb 12, 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.

Sugar-reduced chocolate with oat flour just as tasty as original, study finds

Researchers at Penn State discovered that oat flour can be used to reduce added sugar in chocolate while maintaining its texture and flavor. The team conducted two blind taste tests involving 66 and 90 participants, who rated oat-flour-containing chocolates as equally tasty or even preferred to regular chocolate.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Food Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

Artificial cartilage with the help of 3D printing

Researchers at TU Wien create artificial cartilage tissue by colonizing porous plastic spheres with cells, achieving seamless integration and uniform structure. The novel technique has potential for medical applications, including replacing injured cartilage.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateFeb 12, 2024

Strongest contender in decades in fight against breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered a new approach to defeating breast cancer by stimulating the androgen receptor. The study found that enobosarm was effective against estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, which is the most common form of the disease.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 11, 2024

Monkey see, monkey do: how sideline sports behaviors affect kids

A new study from the University of South Australia found a link between parents' sideline conduct and athletes' behaviours. When parents behaved well, their child was more likely to project positive behaviour. However, when parents behaved poorly, this was related to greater antisocial behaviours in their child.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 11, 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.

Scientists find new way to roll atomically thin nanosheets into scrolls

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a novel approach to create nanoscrolls with improved control over nanostructure. The team achieved tight rolls with scrolls up to five nanometers in diameter and multiple microns in length, opening doors for new applications in catalysis and photovoltaic devices.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 10, 2024

Faster monkeypox (mpox) testing through CRISPR

Researchers developed a faster test for mpox using CRISPR and nanopore sensing technology, which can detect the virus in 32-55 minutes, compared to hours of current lab testing. The test is specific to mpox and was confirmed not to detect other viruses.

SourceBiophysical Society·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateFeb 10, 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.

How ancient sea creatures can inform soft robotics

Researchers created a soft robot mimicking 500-million-year-old pleurocystitids, suggesting a sweeping motion helped them glide through the ocean floor. The design also indicates longer stems enabled faster movement without increased energy expenditure.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 10, 2024

New method could detect early ovarian cancer from urine samples

Researchers have developed a new urine-based test for early detection of ovarian cancer using nanopore sensing technology. The method can simultaneously identify multiple peptides, including those derived from LRG-1, and shows promise for improving 5-year survival rates by up to 75%.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 10, 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 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.

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
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.