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Science News Archive March 2024 - Page 40


Page 40 of 42

Researchers develop amphibian-inspired camouflage skin

The new skin demonstrates excellent mechanical performance, self-adaptive camouflage capabilities, and long-term stability. It can quickly recognize and match the background by modulating optical signals in response to external stimuli.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateMar 4, 2024

Newly discovered protein prevents DNA triplication

Researchers at CNIO have discovered a new protein that prevents DNA triplication, reducing the risk of cancer. The RAD51 protein ensures that DNA is copied only once, preventing errors and damage.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024
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.

Although trust in science remains high, public questions scientists’ adherence to science’s norms

A recent survey found that less than half of the U.S. public trusts scientists to overcome human and political biases. Despite high confidence in science overall, many question whether scientists live up to their values. The study highlights the need for trust to be earned through the scientific enterprise's efforts.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

An inside look at Beech tree disease

Researchers have discovered how Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) affects beech trees, revealing a novel mechanistic explanation for its decline. The disease impacts leaf development and photosynthesis, leading to reduced carbon assimilation capacity and potential tree mortality.

SourceYale University·JournalForest Pathology·DateMar 4, 2024

Gen Z’s climate anxiety is real and needs action — for everyone’s wellbeing

A Curtin University study reveals Australian Gen Z's major concerns about climate change, manifesting as anxiety, fear, and feelings of powerlessness. The study suggests that while online activism is important, Gen Z may need to engage in more traditional areas of activism to drive meaningful change.

SourceCurtin University·JournalSustainable Earth Reviews·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

Less ice in the arctic ocean has complex effects on marine ecosystems and ocean productivity

A recent study by researchers at the University of Southern Denmark found that the Arctic Ocean's declining sea ice cover has complex effects on marine ecosystems and ocean productivity. Despite increased sunlight availability, primary production on the seafloor has not seen a corresponding increase, suggesting water transparency may b...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 4, 2024

WVU research shows government regulation of jobs hinders workers and consumers

West Virginia University researchers introduced a new database showing occupational licensing's impact on the workforce, highlighting how licenses increase cost and time to enter professions, affecting consumers. The database encompasses 50 jobs across all 50 states, providing insights into licensing standards, fees, and requirements.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Entrepreneurship and Public Policy·DateMar 4, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Magnetic resonance imaging shows how infection progresses in strawberry crown

Researchers used MRI to investigate the effects of Phytophthora cactorum on strawberry plants, discovering elevated relaxation times and visible pathogen presence. The study suggests MRI can monitor plant health, investigate disease progression, and inform strategies for preventing plant diseases.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2024

New AI smartphone tool accurately diagnoses ear infections

A new cellphone app developed by physician-scientists uses artificial intelligence to accurately diagnose ear infections in young children, reducing unnecessary antibiotic use. The AI tool is more accurate than trained clinicians and offers a simple solution for healthcare providers.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 4, 2024

A blood test will diagnose fibromyalgia more reliably

A new method allows fibromyalgia to be identified from a blood sample with high accuracy and speed. Researchers analyzed small molecules in the blood using Raman spectroscopy and found specific chemical signatures that distinguish fibromyalgia from other diseases.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalBiomedicines·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

HIV medication can be used safely with gender-affirming hormone therapy

A new study shows that HIV antiretrovirals can be taken together with gender-affirming hormone therapy without losing potency of either drug. The study found that estrogen and testosterone levels remained unchanged when participants took HIV medications alongside their hormone regimen.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalClinical and Translational Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 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.

Personal recovery could be key to preventing long term mental illness

A new study suggests that personal recovery, defined as living a full meaningful life despite illness limitations, can prevent serious mental health problems. Key elements of recovery include understanding mental health challenges, finding purpose and meaning, and receiving support.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 4, 2024

Scientists put forth a smarter way to protect a smarter grid

A team of experts at PNNL developed a new tool that sorts and prioritizes cyber threats on the fly, giving grid operators a clear blueprint to identify and address the biggest threats first. The approach uses hybrid attack graphs and optimization to reduce the number of potential attacks from thousands to fewer than 100.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 4, 2024

Unraveling the mystery of chiton visual systems

A team of scientists discovered that some mollusks sport the most recently evolved eyes with a lens, which arose in four separate events. The researchers found that chitons' sensory organs are embedded directly into their segmented shell, and that species with fewer slits evolve larger, more complex eyes.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2024

Turning skin cells into limb cells sets the stage for regenerative therapy

Researchers from Kyushu University and Harvard Medical School have identified proteins that can reprogram fibroblasts into cells with properties similar to limb progenitor cells. The new method simplifies the process of regenerating human limbs after amputation and could one day be used to give snakes back their legs.

SourceKyushu University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 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.

Webb unlocks secrets of one of the most distant galaxies ever seen

The James Webb Space Telescope has discovered a 2-million-solar-mass supermassive black hole at the center of the galaxy GN-z11, which is one of the youngest and most distant galaxies ever observed. The team also found evidence of ionized chemical elements and a powerful wind expelled by the galaxy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2024

JWST captures the end of planet formation

The James Webb Space Telescope has imaged dispersing gas in a young star's disk for the first time. The observations reveal winds driven by stellar photons or magnetic fields, shedding light on the end of planet formation and the evolution of circumstellar disks.

SourceSETI Institute·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateMar 4, 2024

Protein-based microcapsule saves sensors and lives

Researchers developed protein-based microcapsules to enhance aptamer sensors, enabling direct detection of target molecules in biological samples. The system demonstrates robust protection against harmful proteins and simultaneous real-time sensing of multiple targets.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 4, 2024

NCI-MATCH cancer trial discovers a potentially broader role for an established dual HER2-blocking treatment

The NCI-MATCH precision medicine trial discovered that trastuzumab-pertuzumab, approved for HER2-positive breast cancer, can shrink tumors in patients with other types of cancer and high levels of the HER2 gene. The study found a 12% confirmed overall response rate, with partial responses in various cancers.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 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.

Low iron levels resulting from infection could be key trigger of long COVID

Studies found that people with SARS-CoV-2 infection often experience persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and memory problems due to inflammation and low iron levels. Early iron dysregulation was detectable in those reporting long COVID months later.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 4, 2024

Deciphering the male breast cancer genome

Researchers deciphered the male breast cancer genome, identifying gene mutations and molecular profiles that could impact diagnosis and treatment. The study found mutations in genes known to drive cancer growth and structural variants impacting other cancer-associated genes.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalModern Pathology·DateMar 4, 2024

University of Cincinnati study: Liraglutide safe, effective for weight loss in patients with stable bipolar disorder

A University of Cincinnati study found liraglutide to be efficacious and safe for weight loss in individuals with stable bipolar disorder, without destabilizing the illness. The drug reduced binge eating behavior and significantly lowered hemoglobin A1C levels.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychopharmacology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 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.

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.

Low-cost liquid tames tooth decay

A new study by NYU College of Dentistry shows that silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an effective alternative to dental sealants for preventing cavities, especially in schools. SDF can increase access to dental care while reducing costs, and its use could keep kids from needing fillings, saving families and the healthcare system money.

SourceNew York University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 4, 2024

Robotic hip exoskeleton shows promise for helping stroke patients regain their stride

A portable robotic device has been developed to improve walking function in stroke survivors by altering gait asymmetry. The study, published in IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, reveals that the exoskeleton can effectively train individuals to modify their walking asymmetry.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

A model for the evolution of intelligence

The McGill study found that the ability to solve foraging problems is the only predictor of innovative behavior and brain size in wild birds. The researchers studied 203 individual animals from 15 species, including 13 wild-caught individuals.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 4, 2024

Enhancing statistical reliability of weather forecasts with machine learning

Researchers have developed a non-crossing quantile regression neural network (NCQRNN) model to enhance the statistical reliability of weather forecasts. The NCQRNN model preserves the rank order of output nodes, ensuring lower quantiles stay smaller than higher ones, boosting accuracy and improving forecast interpretability.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMar 4, 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.

An evolutionary mystery 125 million years in the making

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered that different plant species use varying regulatory systems to control the same gene, leading to extreme genetic makeovers over millions of years. This finding highlights the importance of understanding genetic regulation in predicting crop genome engineering outcomes.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 4, 2024

Lower risk of death, major adverse cardiovascular events in hyperthyroid patients treated with surgery than with medication

A new study from Boston University School of Medicine found that surgery significantly reduces the risk of death and major adverse cardiovascular events in hyperthyroid patients. Compared to medication, surgery resulted in a 47% lower risk of death and a 24% lower risk of major cardiovascular events.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2024

Vaping and other lifestyle factors linked to frequent headaches in youth

A University of Calgary-led study reveals that vaping and other lifestyle factors, including meal irregularity, screen time, and household smoking, are associated with frequent headaches in children and adolescents. Frequent recurrent headaches can significantly affect quality of life.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNeurology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 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.

COVID-19 associated with increased risk for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases up to a year after infection

A large binational study found that SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with an increased risk of autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) extending up to 12 months after infection. Vaccination showed some protection against AIRDs, particularly among those who were vaccinated.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateMar 4, 2024

Proposals for cell donation procedures to create brain organoids

A comprehensive literature review and analysis reveal uncertainties in obtaining informed consent from cell donors due to the potential for brain organoid consciousness. Researchers propose three methods to address these concerns, emphasizing the importance of tailoring consent procedures and prioritizing ethical oversight.

SourceInstitute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University·JournalScience and Engineering Ethics·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 4, 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.

Geologists explore the hidden history of Colorado’s Spanish Peaks

A team of geologists from the University of Colorado Boulder has made a breakthrough in understanding the emergence of the Spanish Peaks. The study reveals that the peaks first formed around 24 million years ago when magma welled up from deep within Earth's crust, but didn't break through to the surface until about 17 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalLithosphere·DateMar 4, 2024

New dressing robot can ‘mimic’ the actions of care-workers

A new robot can mimic the two-handed movements of care-workers, allowing them to dress individuals with ease and freeing up time for health and mental well-being. The robot was trained using learning from demonstration, where a human demonstrates the motion required, and has been tested in laboratory settings.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalIEEE Transactions on Robotics·DateMar 4, 2024

Social dynamics of family dogs – A peek behind hierarchies

A study investigates the social dynamics of cohabiting family dogs using a new tool, the Dog Rank Assessment Questionnaire (DRA-Q). The results show that DRA-Q can assess rank relationships between family dogs in a meaningful way, making it useful for investigating social dynamics and measuring hierarchy firmness.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateMar 4, 2024

Programs intended to reduce health insurance premiums may make coverage less affordable for the middle class

A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that reinsurance programs increased minimum cost coverage for middle-class enrollees in Georgia, leading to lower enrollment rates. The programs, intended to reduce premiums, ultimately made coverage less affordable for those with incomes between 251% and 400% of federal poverty level.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 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.

Transfer learning paves the way for new disease treatments

Researchers develop AI model to predict combinations of gene perturbations that can transform cell type or restore diseased cells. The study's findings have potential applications in regrowing injured tissues and transforming cancer cells back into normal cells.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 4, 2024

Opening a window on the brain

A new method called NIRE enables large-scale and long-term observation of neuronal structures and activities in awake mice. The method uses fluoropolymer nanosheets covered with light-curable resin to create larger cranial windows, allowing for high-resolution imaging with sub-micrometer resolution.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

First step toward early diagnosis of metastasis

Researchers have developed a user-friendly method to analyze the basement membrane in human lungs, which is a crucial factor during metastatic process. The study provides valuable insights into the mechanical properties of the basement membrane and its association with metastasis formation.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Protocols·DateMar 4, 2024

Cost of direct air carbon capture to remain higher than hoped

A new method developed by ETH researchers suggests that the cost of direct air capture (DAC) technologies will not be as cheap as previously anticipated. The estimated costs range from $230 to $540 per tonne, with some technologies expected to cost between $280 and $580 by 2050.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJoule·DateMar 4, 2024

3D-printed skin closes wounds and contains hair follicle precursors

Researchers successfully printed full-thickness skin with potential for hair growth in rats, paving the way for more natural-looking reconstructive surgery outcomes. The bioprinting technology uses fat tissue and stem cells to create layered living skin and contains hair follicle precursors.

SourcePenn State·JournalBioactive Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 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.

Who military service members see as credible to discuss secure firearm storage for suicide prevention

A Rutgers Health study found that military service members view law enforcement officers, military service members, and veterans as the most credible sources to discuss secure firearm storage for suicide prevention. The study suggests that leveraging these sources can help increase secure storage among this population.

SourceRutgers University·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateMar 4, 2024

Modeling the origins of life: New evidence for an “RNA World”

Researchers at Salk Institute unveil an RNA enzyme that can accurately copy functional RNA strands and allow new variants to emerge over time. This discovery brings scientists closer to producing autonomous RNA life in the laboratory, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the origins of life.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2024

UC Irvine receives $15 million NSF grant for integrative movement research

The University of California, Irvine will lead a six-year, $15 million NSF-funded research project to study muscle control during rapid movements. The Integrative Movement Sciences Institute aims to bridge gaps between fields and advance understanding of agile movement through interdisciplinary collaboration.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMar 4, 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.

Swapping meat for Quorn lowers bad cholesterol by 10-percent

A study by the University of Exeter found that substituting meat for Quorn lowers bad cholesterol by 10-percent. This reduction is comparable to switching to a Mediterranean or vegan diet and has significant implications for heart health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateMar 4, 2024

Study underscores social factors of low breast cancer screening in the US

A study from Florida Atlantic University identifies key social factors contributing to low breast cancer screening rates in the US. Socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and insurance status are among the top influencers of breast cancer screening behavior.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 4, 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 joints from bacteria with mussels

A research team developed a novel implant coating material that releases antibiotics selectively in response to bacterial invasion, eliminating the bacteria within eight hours. The material exhibits immediate antibacterial efficacy and durability, showcasing potential for enhanced success rates of implant procedures.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 4, 2024