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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 34


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Magnesium protects tantalum, a promising material for making qubits

Researchers found that a thin layer of magnesium significantly improves tantalum's purity and raises its operating temperature as a superconductor. This could lead to increased quantum information retention in qubits, ultimately benefiting quantum computing.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 5, 2024

Are body temperature and depression linked? Science says, yes

Researchers found a correlation between body temperature and depression symptom severity in a large international study. Participants with higher depression scores had higher body temperatures, suggesting that cooling the body may be a novel treatment approach for depression.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2024

UB study challenges the classical view of the origin of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current and warns of its vulnerability

A new study from UB and CSIC challenges the classical view on the origins of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, a key regulator of the planet's climate. The research reveals that the current dates later than the beginning of the Antarctic glaciation, making it sensitive to changes in climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study reveals significant discrepancies in common poverty measurement approaches

A new study from Stanford University found significant discrepancies in common poverty measurement approaches, leading to vastly different conclusions about who lives in poverty. The research suggests that the choice of measurement approach can completely change the extent to which programs and policies reach vulnerable populations.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Ammonia attracts the shipping industry, but researchers warn of its risks

A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Unlocking precision medicine for inflammatory bowel disease

The prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease is rapidly increasing, affecting an estimated 6.8 million people worldwide. Factors such as lifestyle, gut microbial diversity, and genetics contribute to disease development. A multiomics approach using machine learning can predict treatment response and optimize therapy selection.

SourceFirst Hospital of Jilin University·JournaleGastroenterology·DateFeb 5, 2024

Solving an age-old mystery about crystal formation

University of Houston researcher Peter Vekilov discovers two-step incorporation into crystals, mediated by an intermediate state, solving a 40-year-old riddle. The new paradigm guides the search for solvents and additives to stabilize the intermediate state and slow down unwanted polymorphs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 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.

Study: weight loss surgery most effective for long-term blood pressure control

A five-year study shows that bariatric surgery maintains normal blood pressure levels without medications, while reducing BMI compared to medical therapy alone. Participants who underwent bariatric surgery had fewer medications and lower blood pressure rates than those on medication alone.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 5, 2024

Bullied teens’ brains show chemical change associated with psychosis

Researchers found that bullied adolescents have lower levels of glutamate in the brain's anterior cingulate cortex region, which regulates emotions and decision-making. This imbalance is linked to higher levels of subclinical psychotic experiences in early adolescence.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

New technology unscrambles the chatter of microbes

Researchers have developed a new search tool, microbeMASST, to study microbial metabolism, which could transform our understanding of human health and the environment. The tool instantly matches microbes to their metabolic signatures without prior knowledge.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 5, 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.

Microbial division of labor produces higher biofuel yields

Scientists have developed an artificial microbial community consisting of two engineered yeast strains to produce more ethanol per unit of plant sugars. The team discovered that adding the xylose-fermenting yeast specialist to the mixture first, followed by the glucose specialist, dramatically boosted ethanol production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Males born to obese mothers more likely to suffer health issues as adults

Research reveals that males born to obese mothers are more likely to be overweight at birth and develop metabolic complications in later life. The study suggests that male sex hormones play a crucial role in the development of the liver, which can lead to health issues if activated too strongly.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalLife Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 5, 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.

Improving climate predictions by unlocking the secrets of soil microbes

Researchers developed a new model incorporating genetic information from microbes to better understand soil carbon sequestration and plant-microbe interactions. This approach enables more accurate prediction of global carbon cycle changes in climate models, informing agricultural strategies to preserve carbon and mitigate climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 5, 2024

Pulmonary rehabilitation is difficult for millions of Americans to access

A Yale-led study reveals that pulmonary rehabilitation is difficult for millions of Americans to access due to geographic constraints. Despite 80% of Americans living within a 30-minute drive of a program, over 14 million people must travel more than an hour away for access. The study also uncovered racial disparities in access to pulm...

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 5, 2024

Mystery of moths’ warning sound production explained in new study

Researchers at the University of Bristol have discovered how ermine moths produce ultrasonic warning sounds using an 'aeroelastic tymbal'. The mechanism involves the snap-through buckling of a corrugated membrane, amplifying sound production through resonance. This study sheds light on the biomechanics behind moth defense mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 5, 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.

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.

Decoding the molecular networks of early human development

A new study unveiled over a thousand protein-protein interactions during early embryonic development, highlighting the role of transcription factors like paired-like homeobox (PRDL) family. This research paves the way for understanding embryonic genome activation and advancing treatments for developmental disorders.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEMBO Reports·DateFeb 5, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider Category 6 hurricanes

Researchers introduce a hypothetical Category 6 hurricane classification to address increasing intensity and damage from hurricanes. With global warming projected to increase storm risks by up to 50% near the Philippines and doubling in the Gulf of Mexico, the new classification aims to raise awareness about the growing threat.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Influence of voting advice web tools is limited during elections with authoritarian candidates, study shows

A new study published in Electoral Studies found that voting advice applications have short-term effects on voter attitudes and choices in competitive authoritarian regimes. However, these effects are relatively small and dissipate within two months, limiting their practical value in such contexts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalElectoral Studies·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 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.

Stable binder boosting sulfide solid electrolyte thin membrane for all-solid-state lithium batteries

Researchers have developed a new polymeric binder that enhances the mechanical strength and stability of sulfide solid electrolyte membranes. This breakthrough improves the energy density of all-solid-state lithium batteries, enabling longer cycle life and higher performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Understanding how soil traps carbon

Researchers found that electrostatic charges, structural features of carbon molecules, and surrounding metal nutrients play major roles in soil's ability to trap carbon. The study aims to help predict which soil chemistries are most favorable for trapping carbon.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Green steel from toxic red mud

Scientists at Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung have developed a method to produce green steel from toxic red mud using an electric arc furnace and hydrogen plasma, potentially saving 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2. The process is also economically viable, requiring only 30-40% iron oxide in the red mud.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2024

How food availability could catalyze cultural transmission in wild orangutans

A long-term study on wild orangutan males found that habitats with plentiful food increased the likelihood of social learning and cultural innovation. The researchers discovered that individuals from areas with high food availability spent more time peering at others, suggesting an animal's environment modulates social learning.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournaliScience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Ancient Australian air-breathing fish from 380m years ago springs back to life

A new species of ancient air-breathing fish, Harajicadectes zhumini, has been discovered in remote fossil fields west of Alice Springs. The fossil is approximately 380 million years old and features distinctive spiracular structures that facilitate surface air-breathing.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

Virus ancestry could aid bid to predict next pandemic, study finds

A University of Edinburgh-led research team traced the lineage of 743 RNA virus species to track their evolution and identify those most likely to emerge and spread rapidly in humans. The findings show that viruses that can spread within human populations typically evolve separately from strictly zoonotic viruses.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 5, 2024

Primary care housing intervention linked to improved patient health outcomes

Participation in a primary care-based housing program was associated with reduced outpatient visits, improved physical and mental health, and increased feelings of connection to healthcare clinics. The study found that integrated support from the program's care team led to better health outcomes and more stable housing solutions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New study points to more climate extremes

A new study by Flinders University and Argentinian researchers found similarities between long-term climatic changes in South Australia and temperate agricultural areas in Argentina. The research highlights an increase in maximum and minimum temperatures, less precipitation, and more intense droughts and heatwaves.

SourceFlinders University·JournalWater·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Direct view of tantalum oxidation that impedes qubit coherence

Researchers use advanced electron microscopy and computational modeling to understand tantalum oxide formation, which can impede qubit performance. The study reveals a 'suboxide' layer at the interface between tantalum and oxide, with ordered crystalline lattice features.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 5, 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.

New guideline details acute pain management strategies for adolescent, adult dental patients

The American Dental Association has released a new clinical practice guideline recommending the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alone or with acetaminophen to manage short-term dental pain in adolescents and adults. The guideline also provides recommendations for prescribing opioid medications, emphasizing caution ...

SourceAmerican Dental Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateFeb 5, 2024

Women’s blood lipids metabolism better in countering effects of sleep apnea

Researchers found that women regulate their blood lipids better than men under conditions of intermittent hypoxemia, a key characteristic of sleep apnea. This metabolic advantage could explain why women living with sleep apnea experience lower co-morbidity rates than men.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

World’s largest childhood trauma study uncovers brain rewiring

A study of over 580 children found that childhood trauma disrupts neural networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving. The research suggests that trauma therapies should address not only thoughts but also the impact on the body, sense of self, emotional processing, and relationships.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 5, 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.

New species of Jurassic pterosaur discovered on the Isle of Skye

A new species of pterosaur from the Middle Jurassic of Scotland expands our understanding of its evolution. The discovery sheds light on the early diversification of flying reptiles, with Ceoptera evansae showcasing a significant period of evolution and distribution.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2024

In a warming world, climate scientists consider category 6 hurricanes

Researchers suggest introducing a hypothetical Category 6 storm with winds exceeding 192 mph, citing increased risk in Southeast Asia and the Gulf of Mexico. The proposed change aims to raise awareness about growing major hurricane risks under climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Winners of the 2024 Hill Prizes announced

The 2024 Hill Prizes were announced by Lyda Hill Philanthropies, awarding $2.5 million to five Texas researchers for their groundbreaking work in medicine, engineering, and biological sciences. The prizes aim to accelerate high-risk research ideas with significant potential for real-world impact.

SourceTexas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science & Technology·DateFeb 5, 2024

System for early diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers

Scientists have created a low-cost imaging device suitable for endoscopic screening programs, offering excellent contrast between healthy and malignant tissue. The new system uses ultraminiature spatial frequency domain imaging technology to detect cancerous lesions with high specificity and sensitivity.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 5, 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.

MIT researchers map the energy transition’s effects on jobs

The study identifies areas with high carbon footprints, including those reliant on fossil fuels and manufacturing, highlighting the need for targeted economic assistance programs. The research provides a precise way to assess industrial composition, helping policymakers incorporate considerations into future policies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Lighting up Alzheimer’s-related proteins to allow for earlier disease detection

Researchers have developed a fluorescent sensor array that can detect Alzheimer's-related proteins, allowing for earlier disease detection. The tool uses an array of sensor molecules that light up amyloids, providing a high level of sensitivity and selectivity in distinguishing between different amyloid-related conditions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateFeb 5, 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.