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Science News Archive February 2024 - Page 8


Page 8 of 38

Five grand challenges for the future at the interface of engineering and medicine

Researchers identify five grand challenges in biomedical engineering to address social needs, existing gaps, and technological limitations. The Convergence Revolution and Fourth Industrial Revolution are expected to shape the future of medicine, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaborations and next-generation training.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 26, 2024

Study reveals typical growth patterns for children with Fanconi anemia

A new study has created specific growth charts for children with Fanconi anemia, showing that they tend to be shorter and thinner than other children. The researchers found that boys with the condition have average heights at the lower end of the general population curve, while girls have average heights but variable weights.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Affective computing: Connecting computing with human emotions for empathetic AI

The review of affective computing highlights recent advancements and future trends in emotion perception, recognition, and response. Key findings include the growing publication volume in the field, with China leading the way, as well as emerging trends like multimodal fusion and knowledge-driven approaches.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateFeb 26, 2024

When plants are attacked

Researchers uncover the role of tiny enzyme DGK5 in triggering a burst of PA, which regulates plant immune response and reactive oxygen species production. This discovery sheds light on plant immunity mechanisms and opens up future research into lipids involved in immune signaling.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCell·DateFeb 26, 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.

Metal scar found on cannibal star

Researchers have discovered a unique signature of planetary material ingestion on the surface of a white dwarf star, WD 0816-310. The team observed a concentration of metals imprinted on the star's surface, indicating that the magnetic field played a key role in this process.

SourceESO·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 26, 2024

A new theoretical development clarifies water's electronic structure

Researchers from EPFL have made significant strides in deciphering the electronic structure of water using computational methods that go beyond current approaches. The study accurately determines water's ionization potential, electron affinity, and band gap, essential for understanding its interactions with light and substances.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2024

Scientists assemble a richer picture of the plight and resilience of the foothill yellow-legged frog

Researchers mapped disease dynamics in foothill yellow-legged frogs, tracing patterns of infection across a large geographic range. The study found that drought, rising temperatures, and agricultural land conversion drive Bd infection, with the pathogen affecting nearly entire region from southern coast to central Oregon.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 26, 2024

Demystifying “black box” audio models

Explainable AI methods have been developed to make audio models more interpretable and transparent. Researchers categorize existing audio XAI methods into two groups: general methods and audio-specific methods, offering new possibilities for improving the trustworthiness of AI decision-making in audio tasks.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateFeb 26, 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.

HKU chemists pave the way for sustainable organic synthesis with innovative heterogeneous copper photocatalysis, enabling efficient production of diverse bioactive compounds

HKU chemists have developed a novel heterogeneous copper photocatalyst that enables the efficient formation of cyclobutane rings, a crucial structural element in pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. The new catalyst exhibits high stability and recyclability, making it more economically and environmentally sustainable.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Johnston to receive funding for 11th Coronal Loops Workshop

George Mason University Postdoctoral Research Fellow Craig Johnston will attend the 11th Coronal Loops Workshop to discuss solar corona heating processes. The workshop aims to broaden participation with travel support for US students and early career researchers.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 26, 2024

Researchers hacked a 3D printer to speed up fabrication of bioelectronics

A research team at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a simple technique for fabricating electrochemical transistors using standard 3D microprinters, enabling fast prototyping and scaling of bioelectronic devices. The method replaces time-consuming processes requiring expensive cleanroom environments.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

TU Graz develops innovative coating against ice

Researchers from TU Graz developed an innovative ice-repellent coating using initiated chemical vapour deposition (iCVD). The coating's unique mechanism involves random alignment of molecules, creating a surface that prevents ice crystals from sticking.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Metal in glitter impairs aquatic plant growth, study shows

A study found that glitter's metal coating reduces light penetration, impairing photosynthesis of Large-flowered waterweed Egeria densa and affecting aquatic plant growth. The experiment showed a significant decrease in photosynthesis rates with the presence of glitter, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNew Zealand Journal of Botany·DateFeb 26, 2024

Stone Age strategy for avoiding inbreeding

A new study from Uppsala University found that Stone Age hunter-gatherer communities in Western Europe deliberately formed distinct families to avoid inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity. The research analyzed the genomes of several individuals buried at iconic sites in France, dating back to around 6,700 years ago.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

New discovery suggests significant glacial retreat in West Antarctica began in 1940s

A new study suggests that the Thwaites Glacier and Pine Island Glacier began experiencing significant glacial retreat in the 1940s, driven by an extreme El Niño climate pattern. This finding corroborates previous research on ice sheet dynamics and highlights the importance of external factors in controlling glacier behavior.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Uppsala University sets new world record for CIGS solar cells

Researchers at Uppsala University and First Solar European Technology Center have achieved a world record of 23.64 per cent efficiency in CIGS solar cells, surpassing the previous record of 23.35 per cent. The study demonstrates that CIGS thin-film technology is a competitive alternative as a stand-alone solar cell.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 26, 2024

Pore evolution secrets revealed: new study unlocks additive manufacturing potential

A new study has unlocked the secrets of pore evolution in directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing, revealing five distinct processes that contribute to their behavior. The findings provide a detailed understanding of how pores form, move, and interact within the melt pool during DED, enabling targeted strategies to mini...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 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.

Detroit research team to develop novel strategies to identify genetic contributions to cancer risk and overcome barriers to genetic testing for African Americans

A team of researchers from Wayne State University and the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute have received a five-year, $9.6 million grant to improve the identification and clinical management of hereditary and multiple primary cancers in African Americans. The study aims to overcome barriers to genetic testing in this population.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateFeb 26, 2024

A moonshot for obesity: New molecules, inspired by space shuttles, advance lipid nanoparticle delivery for weight control

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have invented a new way to synthesize key components of lipid nanoparticles, simplifying their manufacture while boosting efficacy. The new method involves combining three chemicals to create branched lipidoids that promote mRNA delivery to target c...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 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.

Vaping can increase susceptibility to infection by SARS-CoV-2

Researchers found that e-liquids containing propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin enhance COVID-19 infection, while those with benzoic acid prevent it. Vapers are advised to quit or switch to e-liquids with acidic pH for better protection.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Study shows news organizations still lead in sharing difficult information on social media

A new study shows that despite the rise of community orgs, news outlets still dominate discussions on tough topics like racism and health disparities. Researchers analyzed over 1,250 Facebook posts from various organizations, finding that only 14.5% mentioned the pandemic and 2.5% racism/Black Lives Matter.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

Intervention reduces likelihood of developing postpartum anxiety and depression by more than 70%

A large clinical trial found that an intervention for pregnant women in Pakistan significantly reduced the likelihood of developing moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression after birth. The intervention, led by Dr. Pamela J. Surkan, was administered by non-specialized providers and showed promising results.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 26, 2024

Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis articles provide novel insights into previously unknown disease mechanisms

Researchers decode underlying mechanisms of DCM, hippocampal neurotoxicity, and dysbiosis mediated AD progression using mass spectrometry imaging. The studies found metabolic changes in DCM rat hearts and regulation of CYPs in the hippocampus, providing new perspectives on treatment strategies.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 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.

Expanding clinical trials in South Carolina

The MUSC Florence Research Center is one of four community-based clinical research sites selected to participate in the EQBMED Initiative, aiming to attract more people of color to clinical research. The program seeks to provide easy access to clinical trials in local communities and adapt trial designs to suit regional hospitals' needs.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·DateFeb 26, 2024

Butterflies mimic each other’s flight behaviour to avoid predators

Researchers at the University of York found that butterflies from different species belonging to the same color pattern mimicry group have similar flight behaviors, making a more effective warning signal to predators. This suggests that evolution has driven subtle changes in behavior to enhance survival.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 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.

Want to encourage allyship? Highlight its appreciation, research shows

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that advantaged group members, especially men and white people, often underestimate the appreciation for their allyship efforts. However, when they realize how much it is appreciated, they are more likely to engage in these behaviors. The research suggests that highlighting awar...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 26, 2024

Steering and accelerating electrons at the microchip scale

Stanford researchers have successfully accelerated and steered electrons at the microchip scale using silicon dielectric laser accelerators. This breakthrough enables the creation of tiny linear accelerators that could rival larger systems, with potential applications in medical treatments such as targeted cancer therapies.

SourceStanford University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2024

UK cancer treatment falls behind other countries

Two new studies reveal that UK cancer patients face long waits for chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading to poorer outcomes. The research highlights the need for a strategic approach to addressing treatment variation and improving cancer services in the UK.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 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.

Race, racism, and covid-19 in the US: lessons not learn

The article argues that US covid-19 outcomes are disproportionately affected by systemic racism and economic inequality. The authors suggest strategies for improving health equity, including anti-racist action, separating health insurance from employment, and rethinking vaccine distribution.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 26, 2024

The surprising benefits of unconsciously remembering things

A new study found that unconscious reminders can strengthen memory, particularly when recalling associations between words and images. Unlike conscious reminders, which can lead to retrieval-induced forgetting, unconscious prompts facilitate a more nuanced process of memory consolidation.

SourceColumbia University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Turning waste into wealth: Breakthrough in metal recovery from copper slag

A novel method for recovering copper, lead, and zinc from copper smelting slag has been developed, achieving high recovery rates of nearly 98% for copper and zinc. This breakthrough technique reduces environmental harm by significantly decreasing the harmful residues in leftover slag.

SourceCentral South University·JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China·DateFeb 26, 2024

Improving public understanding of the vaccine adverse event reporting system

Researchers propose renaming VAERS as the Vaccine Safety Sentinel to reduce misinformation, citing a lack of public understanding of the system's unverified reports. They also recommend improving the system with raw data and expanded public education.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 26, 2024

Researchers move obesity up into the brain

Recent research shows that many mechanisms contributing to obesity affect the brain, particularly dopamine pathways. This insight may impact treatment approaches, including medication and initiatives to make fattening foods less accessible. Society must also take responsibility for destigmatizing obesity.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·DateFeb 26, 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.

Yoga provides unique cognitive benefits to older women at risk of Alzheimer’s disease, study finds

A UCLA Health study suggests Kundalini yoga can improve cognitive function, memory and brain health for postmenopausal women. The study found that yoga prevented brain matter decline, reversed aging and inflammation-associated biomarkers – improvements not seen in a group who received standard memory training exercises.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 26, 2024

New clinical practice guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for immunotherapy for inhalant allergy

The American Academy of Otolaryngology has released a new clinical practice guideline supporting clinicians with evidence-based recommendations on immunotherapy for inhalant allergies. The guideline provides 12 key action statements to guide treatment, aiming to optimize patient care and reduce unnecessary variation in management.

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·JournalOtolaryngology·DateFeb 26, 2024

Birth outcomes improve in states that extend driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants, research finds

Research from Washington University in St. Louis found that states allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver's licenses are associated with improved birth outcomes, particularly for babies born to Mexican and Central American immigrants. Birth weights increased, and preterm birth rates declined in these states compared to those...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Carbon nanotube Eye: reconstruction of inner hidden composition & structure of inspection targets

A research group at Chuo University developed a novel non-destructive inspection technique combining multi-functional photo monitoring devices with image data-driven three-dimensional restoration methods. The technique precisely evaluates target objects by compositional identifications and structural reconstructions, providing a breakt...

SourceChuo University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Turning waste into wonder: A breakthrough in pollution control

Researchers developed a vanadium-based catalyst combining nitrogen-doped biomass carbon, significantly enhancing low-temperature furan degradation. The modified catalyst achieved 50% furan conversion at 150°C and complete conversion at 200°C.

SourceZhejiang University·JournalWaste Disposal & Sustainable Energy·DateFeb 26, 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.

Protecting fish doesn’t have to mean neglecting people, study concludes

A new analysis of 14,000 fish surveys in 216 MPAs across 43 countries reveals that no-take MPAs are effective in restoring fish populations but come at a cost to coastal communities. The study suggests multiple-use MPAs, where fishing is regulated, can be a more equitable alternative.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Enhancing electrogenerated chemiluminescence of an iridium complex

Scientists have designed a highly luminescent electrogenerated chemiluminescence cell using an iridium complex and a mediator. The cell achieves peak luminance exceeding 100 cd/m² and maximum current efficiency of 2.84 cd/A⁻¹, representing the highest values reported for ECL cells based on an iridium complex.

SourceHosei University·JournalElectrochemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 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.

Simple measurement can predict risk of worsening of widespread kidney disease

A team of researchers from Aarhus University has developed a simple measurement of protein in the urine that can predict which individuals are at high risk of rapid progression of chronic kidney disease. The study found that patients with newly diagnosed mild to moderate chronic kidney disease within three years have a 15% risk of rapi...

SourceAarhus University·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Poison center calls for ‘magic mushrooms’ spiked after decriminalization, study finds

Calls to US poison centers involving psilocybin among teens and young adults tripled and doubled, respectively, after decriminalization, leading to alarming concern over potential long-term consequences. Most calls involved intentional consumption, with adverse reactions including hallucinations, agitation, and heart rate issues.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 2024

May I have a quick word? Study shows talking faster is linked to better brain health as we age

A new study by Baycrest and the University of Toronto suggests that talking speed is a more important indicator of brain health than difficulty finding words. Changes in general talking speed may reflect changes in the brain, indicating its importance in detecting cognitive decline faster.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalAging Neuropsychology and Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Anti-vaccine conspiracies fuel divisive political discourse

A new study reveals that online political engagement and conspiracy theories played key roles in shaping Japanese anti-vaccine sentiments. Long-term anti-vaxxers tended to lean left, while those brought into the fold during the pandemic exhibited weaker interest and frequent references to spirituality.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Computational Social Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 26, 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.

‘Artificial tongue’ detects and inactivates common mouth bacteria

Researchers have designed a chemical sensor array, or an artificial tongue, that distinguishes dental bacteria and can inactivate them. The artificial tongue uses nanoscopic particles coated in DNA strands to detect the presence of bacteria, and can distinguish between healthy and diseased individuals with high accuracy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 26, 2024

A new, comprehensive roadmap for the future of biomedical engineering

A new roadmap has been published by IEEE EMBS, outlining five primary medical challenges that need to be addressed through advanced biomedical engineering approaches. The paper, written by 50 renowned researchers from 34 prestigious universities, aims to guide future research and funding for groundbreaking innovations.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

What math tells us about social dilemmas

Scientists develop a new mathematical principle to understand cooperation among individuals with different characteristics. Their model suggests that a more equal distribution of resources is necessary for diversities to sustain cooperation, but not for maximum general welfare.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 26, 2024

Researchers overestimate their own honesty

A study by Linköping University researchers found that most scientists believe they are better than average at following good research practices. However, the results also show that researchers tend to overestimate their own ethical behavior, which can lead to polarization in the research world and hinder interdisciplinary collaboration.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 26, 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.

Discrimination drives smoking habits, hurting heart health

A new study finds that everyday discrimination can drive unhealthy coping behaviors like smoking, leading to increased heart disease risk. Research highlights the importance of considering multiple identities when studying health disparities and creating interventions.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 26, 2024