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Science News Archive January 2024 - Page 23


Page 23 of 37

New quantum optics technique sheds light on polariton interactions

A new quantum optics technique has been introduced to explore light-matter interactions in semiconductors. The technique, called photon-cascade correlation spectroscopy, uses spectral filtering and photon-correlation analysis to reveal interactions between semiconductor exciton-polaritons.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

The healthiest lunch choice at work

A study in Japan found that employees having lunch at company cafeterias or bringing homemade lunches have relatively higher nutritional quality compared to those eating out. The survey of 620 workers aged 20-75 revealed that homemade and cafeteria options were associated with better nutrition indices.

SourceToho University·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJan 15, 2024

Meet pAblo·pCasso: A new leap in CRISPR Technologies for Next-Gen Genome Engineering

The pAblo·pCasso technology offers unprecedented precision and flexibility in genetic engineering, enabling rapid and precise genetic modifications of bacteria. This breakthrough expands the range of possible genomic editing sites, allowing for temporary modifications and dynamic gene studies.

SourceDanmarks Tekniske Universitet The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 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.

‘Smart glove’ can boost hand mobility of stroke patients

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking 'smart glove' that can track and analyze hand movements with high accuracy, helping stroke patients recover and regain mobility. The wearable device uses machine learning models to detect finger joints and grasping forces, providing valuable insights for personalized exercise programs.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 15, 2024

The power of pause: Controlled deposition for effective and long-lasting organic devices

A team of researchers from Chiba University introduces a new method of controlled deposition, enabling the creation of stable surface layers with controllable polarization. This approach is expected to improve the efficiency and lifetime of OLED materials, as well as pave the way for the development of new organic devices.

SourceChiba University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

Climate change threatens global forest carbon sequestration, study finds

A new analysis reveals a pronounced regional imbalance in forest productivity, with the Western U.S. experiencing a notable slowdown and the Eastern U.S. seeing slightly accelerated growth. This study highlights the urgent need for reduced global greenhouse gas emissions to restore the global carbon balance.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 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.

When bees nourish their microbiota

Researchers have discovered that bees produce multiple acids that provide essential nutrients to native gut microbes, such as Snodgrassella alvi. This finding suggests that the bee directly enables bacterial colonization by furnishing necessary nutrients, highlighting the intricate metabolic synergy between bees and their gut microbiota.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJan 15, 2024

Island plant life becomes more similar when humans move in

Researchers found that human migration to the South Pacific Islands led to a reduction in the uniqueness of plant species, with homogenization occurring over approximately the last 3,000 years. This process coincides with human occupation and modification of flora through introduced non-native plants and activities.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2024

Kessler Foundation receives grant to investigate impact of combining aerobic exercise and virtual reality for individuals with multiple sclerosis

A new study will compare the effects of a single bout of cycling alone to two different cycling experiences enhanced with VR technology. The goal is to uncover the relationship between sensory demand and acute improvements in processing speed, informing future research on exercise training for long-term benefits.

SourceKessler Foundation·DateJan 15, 2024

An international research group led by Prof. Haiping Wang at IVF-CAAS sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of Ca2+ sensor BraCBL1.2 in clubroot resistance in Chinese cabbage

A study led by Prof. Haiping Wang at IVF-CAAS identified a plasma membrane-localized Ca2+ sensor BraCBL1.2 that functions downstream of BraCRa upon Plasmodiophora brassicae infection, enhancing clubroot resistance in Chinese cabbage.

SourcePlant Phenomics·JournalHorticulture Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 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.

Accelerating how new drugs are made with machine learning

Researchers developed a platform combining automated experiments with AI to predict chemical reactivity, greatly accelerating the design process for new drugs. A machine learning model predicts where molecules will react and how reaction sites vary under different conditions, enabling precise tweaks to complex molecules.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 2024

Erectile dysfunction medications may increase risk of death when combined with common chest pain medication

A new study suggests that patients prescribed both erectile dysfunction medications and nitrate medication are at higher risk for morbidity and mortality. The study found a significant association between the combination of PDE5i treatment and cardiovascular outcomes in men with stable coronary artery disease.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 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.

People deprived of liberty are at very high risk of tuberculosis, even years after release

A study in Paraguay found that people deprived of liberty are at a high risk of tuberculosis (TB) during and after incarceration. The risk persists for years after release, with the incidence of TB declining but remaining 10 times higher than in the community.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 15, 2024

Sahmyook University researchers open doors to next-generation memristive devices

The study introduced a silver-dispersive chalcogenide thin film for use in memristive devices, addressing data retention and endurance challenges. The device demonstrated reliable state retention and endurance, even at high temperatures, and achieved a recognition rate of ~92% in the MNIST database.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

Material science advance could lead to airplanes that optimize their shape in flight

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a method to manipulate the shape of materials through microscale melting and cooling, enabling autonomous shapeshifting in 3D. This technology has far-reaching implications for industries such as aerospace and architecture.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 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.

Astronomers produce most sensitive radio image ever of ancient star cluster

Researchers have produced the most sensitive radio image ever of a globular cluster, capturing detailed information about tightly-packed stars. The imaging technique allowed for unprecedented views of the cluster's central compact radio source and surrounding stellar environment.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 15, 2024

‘’Feel good’’ hormone could explain why exercise helps boost your brain

A new study suggests that dopamine plays a key role in how moderate-intensity exercise improves reaction time and cognitive performance. The researchers measured the release of dopamine in the brain using a PET scanner and found that it was linked to faster reaction time during exercise.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

Climate change threatens fish supply: tiny phytoplankton, big consequences

A new study reveals that climate change is silently eroding the ocean's ability to provide fish by reducing plankton levels, leading to significant drops in fish stocks. The research found that even small declines in phytoplankton can result in much bigger drops in fish populations due to an amplifying mechanism within the food web.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 2024

Bladder tumors reduced by 90% using nanorobots

Researchers successfully reduced bladder tumor size by 90% in mice using nanorobots propelled by urea. The nanomachines deliver a radioisotope to the tumour, attacking it with precision and efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to more effective bladder cancer treatments and reduced hospitalization costs.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 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.

Going beyond plastic: Chung-Ang University team explores tara gum as a green polymer

Researchers from Chung-Ang University have discovered tara gum as a promising sustainable material for biodegradable packaging and drug delivery systems. The study examines the modification methods of tara gum polysaccharides, including their applications in pH-sensitive food packaging and controlled-release drug formulations.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 15, 2024

Reimagining rehabilitation: Iceland’s open prisons offer a blueprint for UK’s foreign national prisoners

A new study suggests Iceland's open prisons offer a blueprint for the UK's foreign national prisoners, providing a unique degree of freedom and promoting holistic rehabilitation. This approach helps to challenge prevailing norms surrounding incarceration, focusing on community engagement and maintaining family connections.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalInternational Journal of Law Crime and Justice·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2024

Key moment in the evolution of life on Earth captured in fossils

Researchers precisely dated some of the oldest fossils of complex multicellular life, tracking a pivotal moment in Earth's history when new lifeforms teemed in the seas. The fossils, including creatures like Aspidella terranovica, showcase early evidence of large-scale multicellular organisms.

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of the Geological Society·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 15, 2024

Physicists identify overlooked uncertainty in real-world experiments

Uncertainty in thermodynamic parameters can influence experiment outcomes, suggesting a new approach to modifying stochastic thermodynamics equations. This oversight has implications for various systems, including cells and optical tweezers, where precision is limited by the uncertainty in system parameters.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateJan 15, 2024

Trazadone and CBT no more effective than placebo for improving insomnia among long-term dialysis patients

A clinical trial found that trazodone and cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia were no more effective than placebo in improving insomnia symptoms among long-term dialysis patients. Serious adverse events also occurred more frequently with trazodone use. More trials are needed to investigate additional therapies for this condition.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateJan 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.

Chung-Ang University study highlights barriers preventing bystander help during gender-based violence

A recent study by Chung-Ang University reveals that lack of success in previous intervention attempts and negative emotions are significant barriers hindering bystander interventions. The research highlights the need for targeted education programs to address these barriers, particularly among university students and those experiencing...

SourceChung Ang University·JournalTrauma Violence & Abuse·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 15, 2024

AI could help power plants capture carbon using 36% less energy from the Grid

Researchers used AI to optimize a carbon capture system at a coal-fired power station, capturing 16.7% more CO2 and using 36.3% less energy from the grid. The system can adapt to changing weather conditions, reducing energy consumption while increasing carbon capture efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalReaction Chemistry & Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 15, 2024

More than 80% of tree species endemic to the Atlantic Rainforest are threatened with extinction

A study published in Science reveals that 82% of endemic species and 65% of all tree species in the Atlantic Rainforest are threatened with extinction. The researchers used a novel conservation assessment methodology to estimate the degree of threat, which significantly increased the number of threatened species.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 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.

Solid-state qubits: Forget about being clean, embrace mess

Researchers at Paul Scherrer Institute created solid-state qubits from rare-earth ions in a crystal, showing that long coherences can exist in cluttered environments. The approach uses strongly interacting pairs of ions to form qubits, which are shielded from the environment and protected from decoherence.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

One-step synthesis of the most common, yet highly intricate, antibiotic molecular scaffold

Researchers from Osaka University have developed an operationally simple way to synthesize the intricate beta-lactam scaffold characteristic of beta-lactam antibiotics. The new catalytic system generates Fischer-carbene complexes in small quantities, eliminating toxic chromium waste and requiring only a small amount of catalyst.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

Embracing stress helps young athletes develop a winning mindset

Researchers from Staffordshire University developed a cognitive-behavioral intervention to help young athletes manage stress. The program taught them to view stress as an enhancing factor for performance, rather than a debilitating one, leading to improved wellbeing and performance.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalJournal of Applied Sport Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 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.

Discovery changes understanding of water’s history on the Moon

A Western University postdoctoral fellow's discovery of apatite in early lunar crust reveals a volatile-rich surface from 4.5 billion years ago. This finding challenges previous understanding and offers exciting new evidence for the Moon's early history.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2024

Towards a humane metaverse: Challenges and opportunities

The metaverse offers a view into a future where human interaction transcends physical boundaries. Key findings include the potential for virtual reality to enhance human experience, but also highlight challenges in designing healthy digital spaces that promote positive interactions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeCase study·DateJan 15, 2024

Does Canada’s food guide provide adequate guidance for older adults?

A McGill University study found that Canada's food guide may not be sufficient for older adults' nutritional needs, particularly in calcium, vitamin D, and folate. The researchers suggest that additional recommendations tailored to older adults are needed to address these gaps.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJan 15, 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.

Feeding mode of ancient vertebrate tested for first time

Researchers use computational fluid dynamics to examine the feeding mode of extinct jawless heterostracans, dismissing the filter feeding hypothesis. The study reveals that forward-facing denticles on oral plates may have prevented oversized food particles from lodging between plates.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 15, 2024

Water molecule discovery contradicts textbook models

A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and Max Planck Institute found that water molecules at the surface of saltwater are organized differently than previously thought. The study's findings suggest a depletion of positively charged ions and negatively charged ions, leading to a reversal of textbook models.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJan 15, 2024

Green growth in Europe: Decoding the EU's journey to sustainability (1990-2019)

A recent study analyzed the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in EU-27 countries, revealing a significant decrease in CO2 emissions despite economic growth. The research attributes this change to EU environmental policies, technological progress, and increased sustainability awareness.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJan 15, 2024

Researchers develop hedgehog safety test for robotic lawnmowers

Researchers at the University of Oxford have created a standardized safety test to assess how dangerous robotic lawnmowers are to hedgehogs. The test uses specially designed hedgehog crash test dummies and has found that many models pose a threat to these animals, especially at night when they are most active.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAnimals·DateJan 15, 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.

What are the new perspectives on free nitrous acid uses for sustainable wastewater management?

Researchers propose a new method for generating free nitrous acid in situ from low-strength wastewater using acid-tolerant ammonia oxidizers, achieving high concentrations and maximizing benefits. This approach also offers multiple advantages, including robust nitridation, acidic sludge treatment, and toxic metal removal.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2024

Advancing high-speed electromagnetic suspension: a composite control scheme for enhanced stability and track irregularity suppression

A team of researchers developed a composite control scheme to suppress track irregularities in high-speed maglev trains. The scheme uses a refined disturbance observer and prescribed performance fixed-time controller to accurately estimate track irregularities and disturbances.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalHigh-speed Railway·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2024

USTC realizes quantitative ensemble interpretation of membrane paramagnetic relaxation enhancement for intrinsically disordered proteins

A USTC research team has created a novel method for characterizing the internal dynamics of membrane-bound intrinsically disordered proteins. Their technique, mPRE, offers high-precision modeling of protein conformations and interactions with membranes.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 14, 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.

Missing link found: supernovae give rise to black holes or neutron stars

Researchers found a direct connection between massive star deaths and compact remnant formation, using observations of a nearby galaxy's SN2022jli supernova. The team detected periodic movements and energy signatures indicating a neutron star or black hole sucking up matter from its companion star.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2024

USTC develops a new deep-learning-based analysis toolkit for spatial transcriptomics

A new deep-learning-based toolkit, SPACEL, has been developed by USTC to analyze spatial transcriptomics data. The toolkit improves cell type prediction and tissue structure reconstruction through three modules: Spoint, Splane, and Scube. SPACEL demonstrates superior performance over existing technologies in ST analysis.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2024

How does the integration of crop-livestock work in different historical backgrounds from ancient times to the present?

The study explores the historical development of crop-livestock integration in China, identifying four distinct stages from traditional subsistence production to contemporary pollution control. It highlights the significance of this practice in fostering a circular economy and promoting rural development.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2024

Singapore study reveals impact of early life adversity on a child’s brain development

A Singaporean study found that children exposed to elevated levels of early life adversity exhibit an accelerated pattern of brain development during preschool years. This accelerated pace may lead to adverse cognitive and mental health outcomes. The study suggests that early intervention may be effective in preventing these consequences.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Mental Health·DateJan 14, 2024