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Science News Archive January 2024 - Page 29


Page 29 of 37

Newly identified genes for depression may lead to new treatments

A global study has identified over 200 genes linked to depression, including 50 new genetic loci and 205 novel genes. The research also suggests potential for drug repurposing and highlights the need for more diverse genetic datasets to develop effective treatments.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 10, 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.

Dry-cleaning fluid becomes a synthetic chemist's treasure

A new method has been developed to convert the widely used dry-cleaning solvent perc into carbonate esters and chloroform, valuable building blocks for further organic synthesis. This clean process uses on-demand UV activation, eliminating the need for toxic source materials.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Countries and companies need to address declining global fertility rates, doctors say

The global fertility rate is declining, with many countries predicted to have a population decline of more than 50% by 2100. Infertility risk factors, such as environmental pollution and smoking, are on the rise. Governments and companies must take action to address these issues and improve access to affordable fertility care.

SourceInternational Federation of Fertility Societies·JournalHuman Reproduction Update·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 10, 2024

Agility in cultural heritage management—Advancing competence within uncertainty as a sustainable and resilient adaptation to processes of dynamic change

This article explores the need for cultural heritage professionals to develop competencies in dealing with uncertainty. It advocates for a systemic understanding of cultural heritage as a prerequisite for sustainable adaptation to current challenges.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalLandscape Architecture Frontiers·TypeCase study·DateJan 9, 2024

Quantum particles can’t separate from their properties, after all

Researchers at Hiroshima University have found that quantum systems exhibit contextual behavior, where measurements change the results, rather than particles separating from their properties. This discovery sheds light on the counterintuitive nature of quantum mechanics and may lead to practical applications in quantum computing.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateJan 9, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rallying for a better badminton birdie

Researchers improved nylon shuttlecock design to mimic feather shuttlecock behavior at high speeds, reducing air resistance and making them harder to return. The study's findings have the potential to revolutionize the sport of badminton.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJan 9, 2024

£2.6 million center to train mineral resources experts for a new generation

A £2.6 million center, led by the University of Leicester, will provide doctoral-level training in mineral resources to tackle challenges of sustainable energy generation and use. The Training and Research Group for Energy Transition Mineral Resources (TARGET) aims to develop secure and sustainable supply of critical mineral resources.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateJan 9, 2024

Injectable hydrogel electrodes open door to a novel painless treatment regimen for arrhythmia

Researchers develop injectable hydrogel electrodes for treating ventricular arrhythmia, providing a potential solution to painful defibrillation and improving quality of life. The novel pacing modality addresses the pathophysiology of re-entrant arrhythmia and offers a promising alternative to existing therapies.

SourceTexas Heart Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 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.

A Jupiter-sized planet has been hiding a big secret: A 350,000-mile-long tail

Researchers have discovered a Jupiter-sized planet, WASP-69b, with a comet-like tail that trails the planet for at least 350,000 miles. The tail is shaped and pushed in the direction of Earth by radiation and an outflow of gas from its host star, providing a rare opportunity to study planetary mass-loss in real time.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateJan 9, 2024

Unveiling the future of photonics: Hydrogel innovations pave the way

Researchers harness hydrogels to create dynamic photonic devices capable of substantial, tunable optical alterations. These advancements have the potential to transform our interaction with photonic devices, affecting technologies from everyday to specialized scientific equipment.

SourceAerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateJan 9, 2024

Epigenetic therapy shows promise for endocrine-resistant breast cancer

Researchers at the Garvan Institute discovered that epigenetic changes called DNA methylation underpin endocrine resistance in breast cancers. By reversing this methylation, they successfully reduced cancer growth in patient-derived animal models using a low dose of the epigenetic therapy drug decitabine.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

New research sheds light on an old fossil solving an evolutionary mystery

A team of researchers, led by Jordan Crowell and Stephen Chester, used modern CT scan technology to analyze the only known preserved picrodontid skull, revealing that they are not closely related to primates. The study highlights the importance of revisiting old specimens with updated techniques to examine them.

SourceThe Graduate Center, CUNY·JournalBiology Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 9, 2024

Kessler Foundation receives two federal grants to further new research on autism and outcomes and assessment for people with disabilities

The Kessler Foundation has received two significant grants from NIDILRR to fund research initiatives focused on enhancing employment opportunities for adults on the autism spectrum. A strength-based tool will be developed to help individuals identify and confidently express their strengths, improving job interview skills and employment...

SourceKessler Foundation·DateJan 9, 2024

Low fitness in youth increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases in middle age

A 45-year longitudinal study found that low cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescence is associated with higher risk for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in middle age. The study also showed that exercising at all ages can lower the risk for cardiometabolic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateJan 9, 2024

Sickle cell raises COVID-19 risk, but vaccination lags

A new study reveals that people with sickle cell disease are nearly two times less likely to get vaccinated against COVID-19 compared to those without the disease. Vaccination rates were particularly low in children and teens with sickle cell disease, who face a higher risk of hospitalization and death if infected.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 9, 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.

Liver transplantation becomes a 9-to-5 operation due to perfusion machine

Researchers at UMCG have successfully performed liver transplants after prolonged preservation using a perfusion machine, showing similar outcomes to immediate transplants. The new method allows for safer and more efficient liver transplantation during the day, reducing complications and mortality rates.

SourceUniversitair Medisch Centrum Groningen·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 9, 2024

Unlocking the secrets of a "hot Saturn" and its spotted star

Researchers used the James Webb Space Telescope to analyze the atmospheric composition of HAT-P-18 b, detecting water vapour and carbon dioxide. They also found a cloud deck that mutes the signals of many molecules, and their findings suggest the star's surface is covered by dark spots. The study highlights the importance of considerin...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 9, 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.

Plant warfare: the crucial function of Nrc proteins in tomato defense mechanisms

Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute discover helper NLRs Nrc2 and Nrc3 play a vital role in triggering the plant's immune response, activating MAPK signaling to induce immunity in tomatoes. The study highlights the importance of these proteins in ensuring crop resilience against pathogens.

SourceBoyce Thompson Institute·JournalThe Plant Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

New study unveils machine learning-aided non-invasive imaging for rapid liver fat visualization

A new study introduces a machine learning-aided non-invasive imaging technique that can rapidly visualize liver fat distribution, enabling early diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases. The method uses near-infrared hyperspectral imaging and machine learning to differentiate between types of lipids in the liver.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

Novel chemical recycling system for vinyl polymers of cyclic styrene derivatives

Researchers at Shinshu University propose a new chemical process to depolymerize cyclic α-substituted styrene-based vinyl polymers, resulting in the recovery of monomer precursors. This efficient recycling system can facilitate effective resource circulation and development of new plastic recycling technologies.

SourceShinshu University·JournalACS Macro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

Different pain types in multiple sclerosis can cause difficulty staying active

Research from Michigan Medicine found that widespread pain with nociplastic features can make physical activity challenging for patients with multiple sclerosis. The study suggests tailoring exercise plans to individual needs by considering underlying pain mechanisms, aiming to maintain functional independence and reduce pain intensity.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Pain·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 9, 2024

Observing single protein with infrared nanospectroscopy

Researchers developed a method to observe single protein vibrational spectra using near-field optical microscopy, enabling detailed analysis of extremely small samples. The technique represents a major breakthrough for ultra-high sensitivity and super-resolution infrared imaging, as well as single-molecule vibrational spectroscopy.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Researchers reveal significance of rare-earth circular economy in promoting global low-carbon transition

A recent study reveals that rare earth elements play a critical role in manufacturing low-carbon products. The researchers found a significant mismatch between supply and demand for heavy rare earths like dysprosium and terbium, but also highlight the potential of circular economy strategies to balance global REE supply.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 9, 2024

Largest diversity study of ‘magic mushrooms’ investigates the evolution of psychoactive psilocybin production

Researchers have sequenced 52 Psilocybe specimens, including 39 species previously unsequenced, to understand the evolution of psychoactive psilocybin production. The study reveals two distinct gene orders within the psilocybin-producing gene cluster, suggesting an ancient split in the genus.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

Stranger than friction: A force initiating life

Researchers analyze fertilized ascidian oocytes to understand the mechanism driving cytoplasmic reorganization and cell shape changes. Friction forces between cellular components, such as actomyosin cortex and myoplasm, are found to be pivotal in determining organismal shape.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

Scientists outline a bold solution to climate change, biodiversity loss, social injustice

A novel dataset is used to propose a 'restorative' pathway through which humanity can avoid the worst ecological and social outcomes of climate change. The scenario emphasizes social and economic justice as well as environmental sustainability, and offers a contrast to other climate scenarios that may be more aligned with the status quo.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 9, 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.

Severe MS predicted using machine learning

A combination of 11 proteins can predict long-term disability outcomes in multiple sclerosis, making it possible to tailor treatments to individual patients. The study identified a specific protein, neurofilament light chain, as a reliable biomarker for disease activity.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 9, 2024

Chemists develop new approach to inserting single carbon atoms

Researchers have developed a precise and efficient tool using 'single atom skeletal editing' to insert single carbon atoms into cyclic compounds, enabling ring size adjustment from five to six-membered rings. This approach opens up the way for designing and modifying complex molecular structures with potential industrial applications i...

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

Innovating Wastewater Treatment: A Leap from Experience to Intelligence

Scientists from Peking University introduced a groundbreaking AI-driven platform to address WWTP complexities, analyzing data to identify optimal microbiomes and upgrade facilities. The platform aims to enhance pollution control and environmental sustainability.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJan 9, 2024

Analysis of rowing force of the water strider middle leg by direct measurement using a bio-appropriating probe and by indirect measurement using image analysis

A new study directly measures the rowing force of a water strider's middle leg using a bio-appropriating probe, obtaining a force of 955 µN. Indirect measurement via image analysis yields a lower force of 488 µN. The study enhances understanding of water repellency and applications in biomechanics and biology.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·DateJan 9, 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 new method based on computational time series analysis allows the estimation of exercise thresholds

A new method allows for the estimation of exercise thresholds based on dynamical correlation properties of heart rate variability, optimizing athlete training and injury prevention. This method utilizes heartbeat interval measurements from sports watches and heart rate monitors, providing a reliable alternative to current methods.

SourceTampere University·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJan 9, 2024

Smart skin bacteria are able to secrete and produce molecules to treat acne

Researchers at Pompeu Fabra University have successfully engineered Cutibacterium acnes to secrete and produce NGAL protein, which reduces sebum production. This breakthrough could lead to novel treatments for acne and other skin diseases using living therapeutics.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

New research shows mobile methadone units are most impactful in rural areas

Mobile methadone units show significant impact in expanding opioid treatment access in rural areas, with a 13-point increase in Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) treatment rates. Adding units exclusively to rural Louisiana provides nearly 20% of beneficiaries within 24 miles of a provider.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalHealth Services Research·DateJan 9, 2024

The hidden identity of leukemia

Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University characterize myeloid/natural killer (NK) cell precursor acute leukemia (MNKPL) using multiomics approaches, revealing distinct molecular features. This work provides crucial details for accurate diagnoses and therapeutic decisions.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 9, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Increasing levels of "hype" language in grant applications and publications

Researchers analyzing NIH-funded projects from 1985 to 2020 found a dramatic growth in 'hype' adjectives. Hype terms correlated with funding application trends, suggesting that grant applications influence subsequent publication language. The study highlights the role of funding mechanisms in shaping research communication.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 9, 2024

RSV shown to infect nerve cells, cause inflammation and damage

A new study reveals that Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) can infect nerve cells, trigger inflammation, and cause nerve damage. RSV was previously thought to only infect the respiratory tract, but this finding suggests a potential link between the virus and neurological symptoms in children.

SourceTulane University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 9, 2024

Systemic changes induced by ASCOT in plasma proteome of women with impaired ovarian reserves

Researchers found that ASCOT reverses some age-related protein expression changes, enriching processes related to the complement cascade and immune system in patients with poor ovarian response. In contrast, patients with premature ovarian insufficiency showed enrichment in responses to oxygen-containing compounds and growth hormones.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024

Perinatal depression and risk of suicidal behavior

Women with perinatal depression are at a heightened risk of suicidal behavior, particularly in the first year after diagnosis, with persistent elevations throughout 18 years of follow-up. The study emphasizes the need for vigilant clinical monitoring to support this vulnerable group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 9, 2024
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Attribution of the extreme drought in eastern China in 2022 and its future risk

A recent study found that anthropogenic forcing increases the occurrence probability of a 2022Drought-like event by 56% due to changes in moisture and upward motion. Under low-emissions scenarios, drought risk declines, while high-emissions scenarios project a 79% higher chance.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateJan 9, 2024

The rock that creates clouds

Researchers at TU Wien discovered that feldspar's unique surface geometry provides the perfect anchoring point for water molecules, enabling efficient cloud formation. The hydroxyl layer formed on the feldspar surface allows water molecules to stick and freeze, forming clouds.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateJan 9, 2024

Is spa water a fossil of water? Uncover the real ultra-deep water cycles

Scientists analyzed stable isotope compositions of hydrogen and oxygen in water molecules to identify long-trapped lithospheric water. They found distinct characteristics shared by various types of deep water, including those beneath the seafloor and in volcanic steam, indicating a common evolutionary trajectory.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJan 9, 2024

Inspired by Greek mythology, this potential drug shows promise for vanquishing Parkinson’s RNA in early studies

A potential Parkinson's medicine, Syn-RiboTAC, targets RNA to slow or stop disease progression by preventing the buildup of toxic protein alpha-synuclein. In early studies, reducing alpha-synuclein levels by even 25% or more is therapeutically beneficial, with the compound showing good selectivity and improved brain-barrier penetration.

SourceUF Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

New research identifies renowned rock art sites ‘chosen’ for vantage

Researchers have identified internationally significant rock art sites in Arnhem Land that were intentionally selected for their critical vantage points. The Flinders University research team used innovative methods to model the environmental conditions 15,000-28,000 years ago, shedding new light on the locations and roles of these sites.

SourceFlinders University·JournalArchaeological and Anthropological Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 9, 2024

Nube, the almost invisible galaxy which challenges the dark matter model

The newly discovered galaxy Nube has a set of specific properties that distinguish it from previously known objects, including being ten times fainter and ten times more extended than other dwarf galaxies. Its unusual characteristics challenge the current understanding of the universe, particularly the dark matter model.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeNews article·DateJan 9, 2024

Current research on prevalence of prolonged grief disorder is inadequate

A study found that recent literature on prolonged grief disorder relies heavily on patient self-reported symptomatology, leading to systematic overestimation of prevalence. Clinical interviews and judgment are essential for a fuller understanding of the bereaved person's experience.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateJan 9, 2024

Main regulator for the body`s oven discovered

Brown fat cells convert energy into heat, protecting against cardiovascular diseases. Researchers discovered a new protein, EPAC1, that increases brown fat mass and activity, offering a potential target for weight loss therapies.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 9, 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.

Meteorite analysis shows Earth's building blocks contained water

Researchers found that iron meteorites from the inner and outer solar systems had similar amounts of missing iron metal, suggesting that water was present in planetesimals right from the start. This challenges current models, which predict cooler temperatures for the inner solar system or formation further out.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 9, 2024

Study reveals key molecular mechanisms involved in development of tomato plant

The study shows how interaction between plant hormone gibberellin and small RNA molecules enables the development of ovaries, followed by fruit and seeds in tomatoes. This knowledge serves as a basis for ways to increase tomato yield by manipulating the genetic and physiological basis of microRNA and hormone interactions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalDevelopment·DateJan 9, 2024