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Science News for November 1, 2024


National Comprehensive Cancer Network joins with Vietnam National Cancer Hospital to enhance cancer treatment

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has joined forces with the Vietnam National Cancer Hospital to create Harmonized Guidelines for Vietnam, a framework for improving and standardizing cancer care in the country. The guidelines are based on NCCN's Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, with modifications to reflect local needs.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateNov 1, 2024

Pennington Biomedical to be on display at ObesityWeek 2024 in San Antonio

Pennington Biomedical researchers will lead courses, presentations, and speaker panels at ObesityWeek 2024, showcasing exceptional obesity research. The center's faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and staff will engage with global potential collaborators and demonstrate progress in metabolic health.

SourcePennington Biomedical Research Center·DateNov 1, 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.

Professor honored for student science volunteer efforts

UT Arlington psychology Professor Yuan Bo Peng has received the 2024 Individual Outstanding Community Service Award for his dedication to the Fort Worth Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Under his leadership, participation from North Texas students has increased significantly, with over 400 students participating this year.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateNov 1, 2024

University of Maryland-YouGov poll: Alsobrooks dominates Hogan, amendment to state constitution garners broad support

A recent Maryland poll found Angela Alsobrooks (D) leading Larry Hogan (R) in the U.S. Senate race and a strong majority supporting an amendment to guarantee reproductive freedom. The poll also shows Kamala Harris (D) holding a significant lead over Donald Trump (R), with abortion services ranking as a top issue for voters.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·TypeSurvey·DateNov 1, 2024

Jennifer Bickel, M.D., named MD Anderson Vice President and Chief Wellness Officer

Jennifer Bickel, M.D., is named MD Anderson's inaugural Vice President and Chief Wellness Officer, focusing on employee well-being, professional fulfillment, and community resilience. She will lead the development of a groundbreaking wellness institute to foster engagement, psychological safety, and professional fulfillment.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateNov 1, 2024

Fishing for biochemistry’s ‘dark matter’

Skirycz's five-year grant will support a novel method to characterize the 'dark matter' of the metabolome, identifying previously unknown functions of compounds. By comparing multiple interaction networks across different organisms, researchers aim to validate potential targets for understanding organismal health.

SourceMichigan State University·DateNov 1, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Logic-based approaches add value and longevity for user entrepreneurs

A study by Bayes Business School suggests that training aspiring entrepreneurs on strategic decision-making can help them identify blind spots and open up new business ideas. The research found that women entrepreneurs who receive such training are more likely to successfully translate their product or service ideas into actual ventures.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalOrganization Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 1, 2024

Research uses lasers to detect landmines, underground objects

A new laser vibration sensing technology can detect landmines in the ground much faster than previous techniques, reducing costs and improving safety. The technology uses a combination of laser and acoustic sensing to detect buried objects with greater accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·DateNov 1, 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.

Textbooks come alive with new, interactive AI tool

A team of computer scientists has developed an interactive AI tool that transforms static physics textbook diagrams into 3D simulations, allowing students to visualize complex concepts like momentum and electrical currents in action.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateNov 1, 2024

In major win for patients, CMS adjusts nuclear medicine reimbursement policy, expanding access to life-saving scans

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced a significant adjustment to the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (HOPPS), unbundling diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals costing above $630. This change aims to improve access to life-saving nuclear medicine scans, providing critical insights for patient treatme...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateNov 1, 2024

Scientists examine how wastewater practices in Florida Keys impact water quality

A new study by Penn State researchers tracked wastewater and groundwater monitoring data to inform wastewater practices in the Florida Keys. The scientists found that shallow injection of treated wastewater removed over 90% of soluble reactive phosphorus, but some nutrients remained in nearshore waters.

SourcePenn State·JournalACS ES&T Water·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 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.

NASA’s Hubble, Webb probe surprisingly smooth disk around Vega

The study uses NASA's Hubble and James Webb space telescopes to observe the debris disk encircling Vega. The researchers find that the disk is surprisingly smooth, with no obvious evidence of large planets, challenging current theories about exoplanet systems.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2024

Novel immunotherapy combo shows promise in melanoma

A phase 2 clinical trial found that the combination of vidutolimod and nivolumab led to tumor control in 55% of patients, with higher levels of immune-related proteins detected in responders. The study also uncovered unique signatures of TLR9 activation and a link between gut microbiome and response to therapy.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCancer Cell·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 1, 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.

Education, occupation, and wealth affect the risk of cognitive impairment

A new study found that people from more affluent backgrounds are less likely to develop cognitive impairment or dementia. Those with higher education levels, managerial occupations, and wealth were also more likely to recover from mild cognitive impairment and improve their health.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2024

Vesalius’ historical “manikins” displayed together for first time

Researchers at Barrow Neurological Institute collected and displayed Vesalius' anatomical manikins for the first time, showcasing their enduring influence on modern anatomic teaching. The display highlights the significance of these works in revolutionizing anatomical education and training.

SourceDignity Health Arizona·JournalNeurosurgery·DateNov 1, 2024

Prognostic role of Lipoprotein(a) in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk from a perspective on current risk-stratification

This study highlights the importance of lipoprotein(a) in predicting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk. Higher Lp(a) levels are associated with increased risk of CVEs, particularly in high-risk patients. Measuring and managing Lp(a) may help decrease CVE risk in these individuals.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm·DateNov 1, 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.

Salton Sea receding at greater rate according to Loma Linda University study

Researchers at Loma Linda University found the Salton Sea's shoreline is retreating at an increasing rate, creating more polluted dust from agricultural runoff. The study forecasts parts of the North Shore will retreat up to 172 meters by 2041, posing health risks to nearby communities.

SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalGeographies·DateNov 1, 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.

The dynamic core of black holes

A recent study examines the internal nature of black holes and their implications for astrophysical observations. The research reveals that dynamic black holes are subject to significant instability over short timescales, leading to deviations from known models.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 1, 2024

Researchers challenge longstanding theories in cellular reprogramming

A team of researchers at the University of Toronto has discovered a unique stem cell type, the neural crest stem cell, which can be reprogrammed into different cell types. This discovery challenges longstanding theories in cellular reprogramming and highlights the potential of these cells for stem cell transplantation to treat disease.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 1, 2024

3D printing breakthrough: Stronger, more ductile alloy for extreme environments

Researchers have developed an ultra-strong, ductile alloy using 3D printing technology, which combines the benefits of refractory metals like NbTiZr. The oxygen-doped blend creates a unique combination of strength and flexibility, making it ideal for aerospace and medical applications.

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

Improving energy production by boosting singlet fission process

Researchers from Kyushu University successfully promoted singlet fission by introducing chirality into chromophores, achieving high SF efficiency in aqueous nanoparticles. This breakthrough enables applications in energy science, quantum materials, and photocatalysis.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Learnable digital signal processing: a new benchmark of linearity compensation for optical fiber communications

The LDSP framework integrates deep learning optimization into traditional DSP, achieving substantial improvements in performance and efficiency. It optimizes DSP parameters globally using backpropagation algorithms, resulting in enhanced compensation for linear and nonlinear performance.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateNov 1, 2024

Blockchain based intrusion detection algorithm for IoT

A research team has proposed a distributed federated intrusion detection method using a blockchain-based architecture, which ensures secure training and discovery of new attack types. The proposed method outperforms existing methods in guaranteeing training security and discovering new attack types.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Computer Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

Closing in on Parkinson’s Disease proteins in extracellular vesicles in the blood

Researchers have developed a new protocol to exclusively access and quantify proteins carried by extracellular vesicles in the blood. This breakthrough may lead to early diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and other brain disorders, providing treatment opportunities before symptoms appear.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

Gentrification can leave residents feeling powerless and alienated in their own neighborhood, research shows

A new study reveals gentrification's complex impact on residential communities in Seoul, Korea, finding that state-led urban change can lead to emotional displacement of residents. Meanwhile, property-led redevelopment has resulted in direct displacement and replacement of industrial clusters with high-rise residential construction.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalThe Developing Economies·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2024

New Huntington’s treatment prevents protein aggregation

Scientists have developed a polymer-based therapeutic for Huntington’s disease, which disrupts protein interactions to preserve cell health. The treatment successfully rescued neurons and reversed symptoms in mouse studies, showing promise as a potential delay or reduction of disease onset.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

Microplastics increasing in freshwater, directly related to plastic production

A new study by Penn State researchers finds that microplastics are increasing in freshwater environments and are directly tied to rising global plastic production. The study tracks microplastic levels in freshwater sediment from before the 1950s to today, showing a rise in line with plastic production.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2024

Mount Sinai researchers enhance screening methods to prevent spread of drug-resistant fungal infections in hospitals

Researchers found that expanded screening protocols identified eight cases of Candida auris that would have gone undiagnosed, enabling prompt isolation and disinfection precautions. The new approach promotes early detection and targeted precautions to reduce hospital outbreaks.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateNov 1, 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.

COVID-19 sharply boosts risk for blood-fat disorders

A new study found a 29% increase in risk for developing dyslipidemia due to COVID-19, with seniors and people with type 2 diabetes being most affected. The research suggests that tackling dyslipidemia can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in those who have had COVID.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeCase study·DateNov 1, 2024

Research shows Cleveland Clinic’s therapeutic virtual yoga program can be effective for chronic low back pain

Researchers found that a 12-week virtual yoga program can reduce back pain intensity and improve back-related function in participants with chronic low back pain. Additionally, participants who practiced virtual yoga reported better sleep quality and reduced use of pain medications.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 1, 2024

The Salton Sea — an area rich with lithium — is a hot spot for child respiratory issues

A USC study found that children living closest to the Salton Sea experience more respiratory issues due to airborne dust, triggering asthma, coughing, and disrupted sleep. The study also suggests that dust events have a greater impact on wheezing and sleep disturbances among children in these areas.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2024

Evolutionary paths vastly differ for birds, bats

Researchers found that bats' forelimbs and hindlimbs evolved together due to correlated bone shapes, unlike birds. This suggests that bats may struggle to adapt to new environments. In contrast, bird species show little correlation between wing and leg shapes, enabling them to occupy a wider range of ecological niches.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 1, 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.

Fueling greener aviation with hydrogen

Researchers used computer modeling to study the feasibility and challenges of hydrogen-powered aviation, suggesting that improvements in fuel cell power could eliminate environmental impact. The team's model indicated that switching from traditional jet fuel to hydrogen fuel could reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90%.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 1, 2024

Applications open for School of Advanced Science on High-Dimensional Modeling

The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on High-Dimensional Modeling offers minicourses and sessions to enhance data professionals' training in machine learning and finance. Key challenges related to forecasting, asset allocation, and climate econometrics will be addressed through state-of-the-art science and research.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateNov 1, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Exposure to particular sources of air pollution is harmful to children’s learning and memory, a USC study shows

A USC study involving 8,500 children found that exposure to certain sources of air pollution, particularly ammonium nitrate, is linked to poor learning and memory performance in 9- and 10-year-olds. This study contributes to the mounting evidence that fine particulate matter PM2.5 can cause neurocognitive harm across the lifespan.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2024

Houston Methodist researchers shed light on increased rates of severe human infections caused by Streptococcus subspecies

Researchers at Houston Methodist have identified a new strain of bacteria, Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), linked to increasingly severe human infections. The study used integrative analysis to investigate the genome, transcriptome, and virulence of SDSE strains, shedding light on their molecular pathogenesis.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalmBio·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

Bee gene specifies collective behavior

Researchers at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf have identified the doublesex gene as the key to understanding how honey bees exhibit complex cooperative behavior. The study found that this gene programs specific behaviors in individual bees, including tasks such as caring for larvae and foraging for food.

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 1, 2024

Change of ownership in home health agencies may lead to increased Medicare spending and reduced staffing levels, according to UTHealth Houston research

Research by UTHealth Houston found that ownership changes in home health agencies can result in increased Medicare spending and reduced staffing levels. The study also found that quarterly star ratings increased, but this may be due to upcoding of quality measures.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 1, 2024

More resources needed to protect birds in Germany

Researchers found that while protected areas show promise for some bird species, many others suffer from limited effectiveness. The study used citizen science platforms to analyze data from over 90 million records and identified a need for better staffing and funding to support endangered species.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 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.

Using mathematics to better understand cause and effect

Researchers developed a method to identify causal relationships in complex systems using information theory. The SURD model breaks down contributions of each variable to unique, redundant, and synergistic components of causality, allowing for the discovery of hidden causes.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2024

Revealing causal links in complex systems

A team of MIT engineers developed an algorithm to identify causal links in complex systems, taking data from various sources and analyzing interactions between variables. The method generates a causality map linking variables with likely cause-and-effect relationships, including synergistic and redundant links.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 1, 2024

Smoking cessation and incident cardiovascular disease

Light ex-smokers experience a CVD risk reduction similar to never-smokers within years of smoking cessation. Heavy ex-smokers require longer periods, up to 25 years, for their residual CVD risk to align with that of never-smokers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 1, 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.

Boosting the nutritional value of black soldier fly larvae with biotechnology

Researchers from NARO and University of Tokyo successfully enhanced essential amino acids in BSF larvae through biotechnological approaches, boosting histidine and methionine levels by over 2.5 times. This development is expected to contribute to a stable food supply and promote sustainable food production.

SourceNational Agriculture and Food Research Organization·JournalJournal of Insects as Food and Feed·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024