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Science News Archive May 2024 - Page 29


Page 29 of 44

A new process for the synthesis of rare nuclei in the Universe?

Scientists propose a new nucleosynthesis process, νr-process, which operates when neutron-rich material is exposed to high neutrino flux. This process can produce rare isotopes present in the solar system, including p-nuclei, previously poorly understood.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 13, 2024

Rice study reveals insights into protein evolution

Researchers at Rice University have made a groundbreaking discovery about protein evolution, revealing that pseudogenes can provide clues to the evolutionary journey of proteins. The team found that certain mutations can stabilize the folding of pseudogenes, but also disrupt their biological functions.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 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.

Birth by C-section more than doubles odds of measles vaccine failure

A study by the University of Cambridge and Fudan University found that children born by C-section are up to 2.6 times more likely to fail their first measles vaccination compared to those born naturally. Two doses of the vaccine are necessary for robust protection against measles.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 13, 2024

DeepCRBP: Improved predicting function of circRNA-RBP binding sites with deep feature learning

A new research team has proposed a novel method, DeepCRBP, to predict the binding sites of circRNAs and RBP. It uses a combination of spatial encoding and sequence encoding modules to capture local and global contextual features in circRNA sequences. The performance of DeepCRBP surpasses several state-of-the-art methods.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

When consumers would prefer a chatbot over a person

A new study by Ohio State University found that people prefer interacting with chatbots when they feel embarrassed about what they're buying online, such as personal care products. Chatbots are perceived as less judgmental and less emotionally expressive, reducing embarrassment and increasing willingness to provide personal info.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 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.

Study reveals patients with brain injuries who died after withdrawal of life support may have recovered

Researchers analyzed data from 1,392 TBI patients and found that some who died after withdrawing life support may have survived and recovered independence. The study suggests delaying decisions on withdrawal might be beneficial for certain patients, as assumptions about poor outcomes can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 13, 2024

Concussion, CTE experts warn term used to describe head impacts – “subconcussion” – is misleading and dangerous

Researchers from top institutions argue that 'subconcussion' is a misleading term that should be replaced with more specific alternatives to better understand the risks of brain injuries. The authors recommend using 'nonconcussive' to describe head impacts without a concussion, highlighting the importance of accurate nomenclature for e...

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 13, 2024

Downsizing local news contributes to crumbling infrastructure

A new study from UCLA and Duke University reveals that strong local journalism plays a crucial role in supporting funding for dams, sewers, and other basic infrastructure vital to climate resilience. Reading detailed news coverage with specific local details about infrastructure maintenance requirements increases support for spending b...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateMay 13, 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.

Flour and oats for the biohybrid robot useful for reforestation

Researchers at IIT developed HybriBot, a biohybrid robot that uses a flour-based capsule and oat fruit appendages to disperse seeds, promoting reforestation. The device has been tested with tomato, chicory, and willow herb seeds in various soils, showing promising results.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

Island birds more adaptable than previously thought

A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society found that birds on islands are more evolutionarily similar and diverse than expected, with more species thriving in agricultural areas. The research suggests that there may be fundamental principles of ecology at play, influencing bird evolution on islands.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 13, 2024

Chatbots tell people what they want to hear

A new study from Johns Hopkins University reveals that chatbots can exacerbate polarization by sharing limited information and reinforcing user ideologies, leading to stronger reactions to opposing views.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMay 13, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fruit fly testes offer potential tool against harmful insects

A new compound found in fruit fly testes has the potential to control insect populations by suppressing their ability to reproduce. The enzyme, which is also present in other organisms, can lead to an overload of bromotyrosine that severely inhibits spermatogenesis.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

Metalens expands Its reach from light to sound

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed the first wide field-of-hearing metalens, overcoming traditional acoustic lens limitations. The device achieves up to 140 degrees of field-of-hearing without sound distortion, enabling new applications in acoustic imaging and high-sensitivity sensing.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2024

Taking electroretinography to the next level with a soft multi-electrode system

A new soft multi-electrode system for electroretinography has been developed to overcome the limitations of traditional devices. The system uses a commercially available soft disposable contact lens with gold mesh electrodes, allowing for simultaneous measurement of electrical potentials from different regions of the retina. This innov...

SourceWaseda University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Mount Sinai study identifies genetic link between inflammatory bowel disease and Parkinson’s disease

Researchers at Mount Sinai identified genetic connections between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), highlighting potential for joint therapeutic strategies. The study found mutations in the LRRK2 gene as a common element linking both conditions, with implications for innovative treatments.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalGenome Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 13, 2024

Study findings demonstrate benefit to pediatric celiac disease mass screening

The study, conducted by Children's Hospital Colorado, found improvements in symptoms and quality of life for children diagnosed with celiac disease after participating in a mass screening program. Mass screening for pediatric celiac disease may become more common in the US, following similar conclusions drawn from European studies.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 13, 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.

Plant virus treatment shows promise in fighting metastatic cancers in mice

A plant virus treatment, composed of cowpea mosaic virus nanoparticles, has shown remarkable success in improving survival rates and suppressing the growth of metastatic tumors across various cancer models. The treatment was effective even after surgical removal of tumors, indicating its potential to prevent metastasis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 13, 2024

Limited efficacy of common local anaesthetic

A recent study published in Anesthesiology found that liposomal bupivacaine is not sufficient to control pain during surgery, with successful blockade achieved in only a third of test subjects. However, the substance did lead to a reduction in pain sensitivity for 3.5 days post-operatively.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalAnesthesiology·DateMay 13, 2024

Milestone in plasma acceleration

The HZDR team has made a significant advance in laser plasma acceleration, achieving energies of up to 150 MeV for protons. This breakthrough opens up promising applications in medicine and materials science, including new radiobiological concepts for tumor treatment.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 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.

In a reservoir in Southeast Brazil, introduction of a fish native to the Amazon has reduced native species diversity

The introduction of the Silver croaker fish to a Brazilian reservoir has led to a sharp decline in native species diversity. The study, published in Biological Invasions, analyzed data from 2001-2016 and found that the invader had become the most abundant fish species, negatively affecting local biodiversity.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiological Invasions·DateMay 13, 2024

The search for habitable planets beyond Earth remains a complex and ongoing endeavor, requiring a deep understanding of planetary evolution and the intricate interplay of atmospheric and surface conditions

The study highlights the impact of volatile elements, convective mechanisms, liquid water, and carbon cycles on planetary habitability. Volatile elements affect atmospheric composition, while convection mechanisms shape surface conditions and regulate nutrient cycles.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace Science & Technology·DateMay 13, 2024

Machine learning and AI aiding in the prediction of chemical reaction outcomes

Researchers at Yokohama National University utilized machine learning and AI to predict the selectivity of chemical reactions. By analyzing molecular factors such as sterics and orbitals, they developed a method to better understand reaction mechanisms, leading to more efficient synthesis of desired products.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·DateMay 13, 2024

New findings released from US 2020 Facebook and Instagram election study

Researchers found that taking a break from Facebook and Instagram in the weeks leading up to the 2020 presidential election had little effect on people's political views or negative opinions of opposing parties. However, users who were off Facebook were worse at answering news quiz questions but less likely to fall for misinformation.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 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.

Variations in telomere lengthening genes may predispose some people to papillary thyroid cancer

Researchers found a correlation between genetic variations in three telomere-related genes and an increased risk of developing papillary thyroid cancer. The study suggests that individuals with these variants may benefit from closer monitoring for secondary cancers, and highlights the role of long telomeres in cancer development.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 13, 2024

Western researchers’ breakthrough paves way for ALS cure

A team of Western University researchers has discovered a potential path toward a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by targeting an interaction between two proteins. The breakthrough, fueled by the Temerty Foundation's $10-million investment, could lead to treatment in human clinical trials within five years.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalBrain·DateMay 13, 2024

Zampieri receives funding for doctoral consortium

George Mason University Assistant Professor Marcos Zampieri received $20,000 from the National Science Foundation to subsidize travel and conference expenses for students participating in the NAACL 2024 Student Research Workshop. The workshop aims to develop a skilled and diverse computational linguistics workforce.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateMay 13, 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.

Understanding turbulence through artificial intelligence

A team from UPV has developed an AI technique to study turbulence, a key factor in energy dissipation and CO2 emissions. The method uses a neural network to predict turbulent flow movement and reproduce existing knowledge without prior physics knowledge.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 13, 2024

High genetic diversity discovered in South African leopards

Researchers discovered very high genetic diversity in South African leopards, which increases the need for conservation efforts. The leopards' two maternal lineages overlap, leading to this high genetic diversity.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPeerJ·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 13, 2024

Dramatic increase in fentanyl seized by authorities in last six years

Fentanyl seizures in the US increased by 1,700% between 2017 and 2023, with pills accounting for nearly half of total seizures. The West region saw a significant increase in fentanyl pill seizures, while the South had the highest number of powder form seizures.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateMay 13, 2024

Sending abortion pills through the mail is timely and effective

Researchers at UC San Francisco found that dispensing abortion pills through the mail is a safe and effective method, with nearly 98% of patients completing their abortions. The study suggests that this model can help increase access to abortion care for clinicians and patients alike.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 13, 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.

New gel breaks down alcohol in the body

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a protein gel that breaks down alcohol in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing blood alcohol levels and acetaldehyde production. The gel shows promising results in mice studies, demonstrating a lower alcohol level and therapeutic effect on liver damage and weight loss.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

World's largest hummingbird is actually two species

Researchers identified two distinct species of Giant Hummingbirds, differing in their migratory patterns and genomes. The northern population remains in the high Andes year-round, while the southern population migrates up to 14,000 feet for non-breeding months.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

New approach for antibiotic development

A research team has identified molecular mechanisms that weaken the virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a key step towards developing new antibiotics. Medium-chain free fatty acids regulate PlaF enzyme activity, which can be targeted to inhibit the pathogen's deadly effects.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalJACS Au·DateMay 13, 2024

Researchers discover "topological hall effect" in two-dimensional quantum magnets

Researchers have discovered a new phenomenon called the Topological Kerr Effect in two-dimensional quantum magnets. The study uses low-temperature magnetic field microscopy and imaging systems to reveal distinctive 'cat ear'-shaped prominences resembling the electrical topological Hall effect in magnetic skyrmion systems.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 13, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New molecule mimics the anti-clotting action of blood-sucking organisms

Researchers at Duke University have developed a synthetic molecule that mimics the effects of compounds in the saliva of blood-sucking critters, providing a dual-action anti-clotting function. The new molecule can be swiftly reversed, enabling clotting to resume when needed after treatment.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2024

Like dad and like mum…all in one plant

Researchers have developed a system to generate clonal sex cells in tomato plants, which they used to design the genomes of offspring. The resulting plants contain the complete genetic information of both parents, offering a potential solution to the labor-intensive and expensive process of producing hybrid seeds.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 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.

Organic farming leads to adaptations in the genetic material in plants

A study at the University of Bonn found that organic barley developed specific gene variants less sensitive to nutrient deficit or water scarcity. Conventionally farmed barley became more genetically uniform over time, while organic barley remained heterogeneous.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAgronomy for Sustainable Development·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

New surface acoustic wave techniques could lead to surfing a quantum internet

Scientists at the University of Rochester have developed a technique for pairing particles of light and sound, allowing for faithful conversion of information stored in quantum systems. The method uses surface acoustic waves, which can be accessed and controlled without mechanical contact, enabling strong quantum coupling on any material.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2024

Perceived present duration in groups Is flexible and varying

The study found that the temporal binding window expands logarithmically with increasing group size, while remaining unaffected by group dynamics. Participants integrate clapping sounds to perceive simultaneity, adjusting their perception of time based on task involvement.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 13, 2024

‘Free’ delivery plans profit both retailers and customers

Researchers found that free-delivery subscription plans offer financial benefits to everyone involved, including retailers and customers. They do this by increasing average annual purchases, locking in customers, and adding value through perks such as exclusive sales and online entertainment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProduction and Operations Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 13, 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.

Same-sex marriage has caused no harms to different-sex couples

A new report from RAND and UCLA found that extending marriage rights to same-sex couples has grown support for marriage overall. The study also found evidence of improved attitudes toward marriage among young people in states where same-sex couples were granted legal status.

SourceRAND Corporation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 13, 2024

What makes a memory? It may be related to how hard your brain had to work

A computational model and behavioral study suggest that the mind prioritizes remembering things it cannot explain well, and that harder-to-reconstruct images are more memorable. The research provides a new clue to understanding why some experiences become 'memorable' while most are discarded by the brain.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateMay 13, 2024