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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 3


Page 3 of 38

Climate change disrupts seasonal flow of rivers

Research published in Science found that 21% of rivers worldwide showed significant alterations in seasonal water levels due to climate change. This threatens freshwater biodiversity and water security as river flow seasonality weakens.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 29, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Highest quality in residential elder care homes without profit incentives

A new study by University of Gothenburg researchers shows that non-profit organizations provide the highest-quality elderly care in Swedish residential care homes. These homes have the highest staff density, most competent care staff, and highest resident satisfaction compared to homes run by profit-making companies.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Public Administration Research and Theory·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 29, 2024

UC Davis Health team uses AI to predict risk of liver cancer

A machine-learning model developed by UC Davis Health clinicians and data scientists can accurately predict the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The model, which was validated on a large dataset, identified four additional risk factors a...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalGastro Hep Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 29, 2024

Young researcher makes surprising methane discovery in Yukon glaciers: "Much more widespread than we thought"

A young researcher from the University of Copenhagen has made a surprising discovery of high concentrations of methane in meltwater from three Canadian mountain glaciers. The findings challenge previous assumptions that methane in meltwater could only be found in oxygen-free environments under large ice masses.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalArctic Antarctic and Alpine Research·DateFeb 29, 2024

Unveiling rare diversity: the origin of heritable mutations in trees

Researchers identified rare genetic mutations in two tropical tree species, which are transmitted to offspring and contribute to their genetic diversity. These mutations have no effect on UV exposure but can help the trees adapt to changing environments.

SourceINRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 29, 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.

Refrigerate lettuce to reduce risk of E. coli contamination, researchers say

A new study from the University of Illinois examines factors affecting E. coli contamination on five leafy greens, including romaine and spinach. Researchers found that refrigeration significantly reduces E. coli growth on lettuce, while kale and collards are less susceptible due to their natural antimicrobial properties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalFood Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 29, 2024

Driving an electric car is cheaper in some parts of Canada than others

A new study from the University of British Columbia found that driving an electric car is cheaper in some regions of Canada, such as Quebec and BC, than others, like Nunavut. The researchers analyzed factors like tax rebates, charging costs, and electricity prices to determine the break-even point for electric cars.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEnvironmental Research Infrastructure and Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 29, 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.

Study detects cognitive changes in older drivers using in-vehicle sensors

A study published in BMC Geriatrics uses in-vehicle sensors to detect anomalous driving behavior indicative of cognitive impairment in older adults. The system analyzes driving patterns, facial expressions, and eye movement to identify early signs of dementia.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalBMC Geriatrics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 29, 2024

Researchers uncover a potential genetic marker associated with better survival outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer

A study published in Cancer Research Communications reveals a potential genetic marker associated with better survival outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer. The researchers found that the presence of a specific genetic variant and higher expression of the GAN gene product gigaxonin may contribute to improved survival rates.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Research Communications·DateFeb 29, 2024

Characterizing climate change from heating, not merely temperature

The study emphasizes that human-induced climate change primarily arises from the planet's heating, leading to energy imbalance and altered flows of energy through the climate system. This framing changes how climate change is manifested, particularly in extremes such as droughts, storms, and flooding.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalJournal of Climate Action Research and Policy·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 28, 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.

Molecular clusters on glial cells show they are more than our brain’s ‘glue’

Neuroscientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have found that glial cells use different molecules to communicate with different neurons, enabling distinct 'conversations' with each neuron. This clustering of molecules ensures that the glial cell can influence how neurons respond to environmental cues like temperature and smell.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Consistent evidence links ultra-processed food to over 30 damaging health outcomes

A comprehensive review of 45 meta-analyses found a strong association between ultra-processed food consumption and 32 adverse health outcomes, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders. Higher exposure was linked to increased risks of death from any cause, heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 28, 2024

Most LGBTQ+ orthopaedic trainees and professionals report workplace bias

A survey of 156 individuals found that 94% of LGBTQ+ respondents were open about their identity in the workplace, but 74% reported experiencing bullying, discrimination, or being treated differently. The authors recommend creating safer environments by enforcing no-tolerance policies and promoting diversity and sensitivity training.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateFeb 28, 2024

Study unravels the earliest cellular genesis of lung adenocarcinoma

A new atlas of lung cells reveals transitional alveolar cell state harboring KRAS mutations in normal lung cells, which can lead to lung adenocarcinoma. This finding opens doors for developing new detection strategies.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Chinese scientists propose anti-fatigue preparation for 3D-printed titanium alloy

Researchers develop new method to fabricate anti-fatigue 3D-printed titanium alloy by regulating microstructure and defects, showing remarkably high fatigue resistance and specific strength. The study reveals potential advantages of 3D printing technology in producing structural components.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Creepy crawlies protect apples when flowers are planted on farms

A new study found that installing flower margins on apple orchards can reduce fruit damage by up to 50 meters from the floral habitat. The research team discovered that predatory insects like hoverflies and ladybirds prey on pests that deform and damage apples, resulting in healthier crops.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2024

How the SARS-CoV-2 virus acquires its spherical shape

A UC Riverside-led study has devised a way to make large quantities of the Membrane protein, which plays a crucial role in how SARS-CoV-2 acquires its spherical structure. The researchers found that when the M protein interacts with the membrane, it coaxes the membrane to curve, leading to the virus's characteristic shape.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

New study links hospital privatisation to worse patient care

A new review of 13 studies found that hospitals privatised deliver worse quality care after conversion from public ownership. This challenges the theory that privatisation improves healthcare quality through increased market competition.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateFeb 28, 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.

A step toward personalized immunotherapy for all

Scientists from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that patients with 'cold' tumors produce cancer-fighting T cells, suggesting a potential cure from within. The researchers developed an approach called 'Identify, Predict, Validate' to detect these T cells in over 130 patients.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

How early-stage cancer cells hide from the immune system

A new study has identified a strategy used by early-stage cancer cells to evade the immune system. By turning on the gene SOX17, these cells create an immunosuppressive environment that prevents them from being detected. This gene helps cancer cells ignore immune messages and grow in the presence of an immune system.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 28, 2024

Nanocarrier with escape reflex

A new nanocarrier has been developed that can selectively release drugs in cancer cells through controlled endosomal escape. The approach exploits the unique enzymatic activity of cancer cells, allowing for targeted delivery and reduced harm to healthy cells.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Researchers decipher mysterious growth habit of weeping peach trees

A new study published in Plant Physiology reveals the mysterious growth habit of weeping peach trees by identifying a protein called WEEP. The study shows how the protein establishes asymmetric auxin gradients, leading to shoots growing downwards like roots.

SourceAmerican Society of Plant Biologists·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateFeb 28, 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.

Biomolecules from formaldehyde on ancient Mars

Scientists from Tohoku University investigated whether early Martian conditions could foster biomolecule formation, finding that formaldehyde production was possible in a temperate climate environment. This raises the possibility that detected organic materials on Mars originated from atmospheric sources.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2024

Immunotherapy combination may benefit patients with transplanted kidneys and advanced skin cancers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have reported promising results from a clinical trial testing a novel immunotherapy combination to target advanced, potentially lethal skin cancers in kidney transplant patients. Two out of six patients experienced complete tumor regression after adding a second checkpoint inhibitor to the regimen.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 28, 2024

New approach may prevent deadly intestinal disease in preemies

Researchers found that supplementing with rhIGF-1/BP3 protected neonatal mice from necrotizing enterocolitis, a deadly intestinal disease affecting premature infants. The study's preclinical evidence paves the way for a clinical trial on preventing NEC.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalPediatric Research·DateFeb 28, 2024

Shedding light on the intricacies of numerical simulations of soil behavior

Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology develop new methodology to accurately simulate soil behavior in rigid state, leveraging MSP method and Bingham fluid biviscosity model. The study highlights the impact of parameters on simulation accuracy and computational costs.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalCivil Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 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.

Cannabis use linked to increase in heart attack and stroke risk

A new study found that frequent cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, even after controlling for tobacco use and other cardiovascular risk factors. The study analyzed data from over 430,000 adults in the US and found that smoking cannabis was significantly linked to cardiovascular risks.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 28, 2024

Effect of keratin microsphere gel on hair growth in mice

A study by the University of Tsukuba found that keratin microsphere gel enhanced cell proliferation and gene expression related to hair growth. The gel's stimulatory impact on papilla cells was validated through genetic analysis, demonstrating its potential as a safe and effective hair growth agent.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateFeb 28, 2024

Loggers paid to save nesting sites for raptor on the red list

A new protocol has been implemented, compensating loggers to leave kite nesting sites alone. The results show that 37 young raptors were saved over 7 years. This innovative approach demonstrates the benefits of dialogue between public and private sectors in conservation.

SourceRaptor Research Foundation·JournalJournal of Raptor Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 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.

Odours hasten mortality and reproductive ageing – study finds

A University of Otago-led study found that sensory cues alone can drive ageing effects in animals. Researchers tested male mice exposed to female odours and found reduced fertility and increased mortality later in life. The study highlights the importance of sensory perception of mates in influencing life-history trade-offs.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2024

Consumers empowered with the facts on dairy’s nutritional benefits buy and consume more dairy foods

A new study shows that education on dairy nutrition increases purchasing and consumption of dairy products, including a 53% increase in milk consumption. Participants who learned about dairy's nutritional benefits bought and consumed more cheese, ice cream, yogurt, and milk, with average increases of 26%, 20%, 26%, and 23%, respectively.

SourceElsevier·JournalJDS Communications·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 28, 2024

Special gel could help in surgery after pelvic organ prolapse

Researchers found that synthetic PIC gel can stimulate cell growth and increase collagen production, potentially improving wound healing after pelvic organ prolapse surgery. The study also showed a mild immune response to the gel when tested on laboratory animals.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalAdvanced Therapeutics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Climate change shrinking fish

A new study by University of Tokyo researchers found that fish weight in the western North Pacific Ocean decreased in the 2010s due to warmer waters limiting food supplies. Climate change is exacerbating competition for resources among fish species, with implications for fisheries and policymakers.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateFeb 28, 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.

Change in gene code may explain how human ancestors lost tails

A study found an insertion of DNA shared by apes and humans but missing in monkeys that affected tail length. The insertion, called AluY, influenced alternative splicing to result in a variety of tail lengths.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 28, 2024

Study identifies blood biomarkers to predict risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers identified six blood biomarkers associated with increased cardiovascular risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. These biomarkers improved the ability to predict arterial inflammation, an indicator of cardiovascular risk, compared to standard clinical indices.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 28, 2024

Significant proportion of cancer drugs lack proof of added benefit

A study found that over half of cancer drugs approved through expedited pathways recover research and development costs within three years, despite lacking proof of added benefit. The researchers emphasize the need for better alignment between regulatory and reimbursement processes to promote effective drug development.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Aorta recognised as an independent organ for the first time

The new guidelines recognize the aorta as an independent organ, bundling its treatment with other specialties. This holistic approach improves treatment outcomes for patients with aortic rupture and other serious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 28, 2024

Data-processing tool could enable better early stage cancer detection

A team of Rice University researchers has developed a platform for integrating DNA and RNA data from single-cell sequencing with greater speed and precision. The method, MaCroDNA, relies on a classical algorithm to identify matching pairs of data and outperformed state-of-the-art technologies in accuracy measurements.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2024
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Study reveals accelerated soil priming under climate warming

Researchers at University of Oklahoma discover that climate warming accelerates soil priming in temperate grassland ecosystem, leading to increased soil carbon release. This finding highlights the crucial role of soil priming in terrestrial carbon cycle feedback processes and climate regulation.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2024

CityUHK develops world-leading microwave photonics chip for high-speed signal processing

A research team from City University of Hong Kong has developed a world-leading microwave photonic chip capable of performing ultrafast analog electronic signal processing. The chip, 1,000 times faster and consuming less energy than traditional processors, has wide applications in 5/6G wireless communication, AI, and computer vision.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Sensory nerves appear to drive head and neck cancer growth

A study published in the journal Med found that sensory nerves accelerate tumor growth by suppressing specific immune cells within the tumor microenvironment. Blocking nerve activity with FDA-approved drugs like botox or gabapentin can stop cancer progression for about six weeks, and may have synergistic effects with radiation treatment.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalMed·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Building bionic jellyfish for ocean exploration

Scientists at Caltech have developed a new type of robotic jellyfish that can swim faster and carry payloads, making them ideal for collecting oceanic climate data. The biohybrid creatures use electronics to enhance their swimming abilities and can reach speeds of up to 4.5 times those of natural jellyfish.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateFeb 28, 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.

How 40Hz sensory gamma rhythm stimulation clears amyloid in Alzheimer’s mice

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute found that stimulating a key brain rhythm with light and sound increases peptide release from interneurons, driving clearance of Alzheimer's protein. The study suggests that 40Hz sensory stimulation promotes increased amyloid clearance via the glymphatic system.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

Rising focus on 'inceptor' as a type 2 diabetes therapeutic target

A novel study in mice with diet-induced obesity demonstrates that the knock-out of inceptor enhances glucose regulation, prompting its exploration as a drug target for type 2 diabetes treatment. Inhibiting inceptor function may enhance insulin signaling, required for beta cell function and survival.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalNature Metabolism·DateFeb 28, 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.

Anti-cancer drug could improve symptoms after stroke

A study by Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona demonstrates that vorinostat, an anti-cancer drug, mitigates brain injuries and restores brain tissue after a stroke. Researchers found that the treatment not only protects the brain but also surrounding vessels, reducing inflammation and improving neurological deficits.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024