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Science News Archive September 2024


Page 1 of 41

What numbers do you see? A new bistable perceptual phenomenon on symbolic numbers

A team of researchers from the National Institute for Physiological Sciences in Japan found that partial occlusion of digital numerals can induce bistable interpretations of their semantic meanings. Long-time visual exposure to normal numerals biases perception, favoring a specific number interpretation.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of Vision·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2024

From embers to crisis: the expanding threat of wildfires under global warming

Global wildfires are on the rise, driven by climate change, contributing to carbon emissions and particulate matter. High-latitude regions face more intense wildfire events, highlighting the need for in-depth research to understand and mitigate their impacts.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

Lower attention ability in adolescence predicts substance use in later life

Research from Trinity College Dublin found that lower sustained attention in adolescence can predict a larger increase in cigarette and cannabis use by age 23. The study suggests using early biomarkers like sustained attention to identify vulnerable adolescents and guide targeted interventions.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournaleLife·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Watch water form out of thin air

For the first time, researchers have witnessed nanosized water bubbles forming in real time using a novel method that enables atomic precision. The breakthrough discovery has significant implications for practical applications, such as rapid water generation in deep space environments without extreme conditions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2024

Sylvester study: MRI provides early warning system for glioblastoma growth

A new study by Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers shows that daily MRI imaging paired with radiation can monitor tumor changes in real-time. The technology has the potential to signal early warning signs of tumor growth, allowing for faster and more targeted treatment adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics·DateSep 30, 2024

Probing the early universe

Researchers use high-resolution computer simulations and terabytes of data to detect faint signals from the Epoch of Reionization, providing insights into galaxy formation. The study sets an upper limit on when the EoR likely ended, offering a new parameter for scientists to work with as they continue to investigate the early universe.

SourceNational Center for Supercomputing Applications·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 30, 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.

Childhood social interactions combat stereotypes

Research reveals that children who attended day care regularly are more likely to overcome stereotypical beliefs in adulthood. Participants who spent time in day care were quicker to adjust their behavior when interacting with people of different ages.

SourceDartmouth College·Journalnpj Science of Learning·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Synaptic strength regulates sleep quantity and quality

Researchers developed a novel molecular tool, SYNCit-K, that enhances synaptic strength, leading to induced sleep and improved sleep quality in mice. The study reveals the role of synaptic connections in controlling sleep homeostasis.

SourceInternational Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine, University of Tsukuba·JournalScience·DateSep 30, 2024

Method developed to enable Asphalt roads to weather cracking due to climate changes and heavy traffic load

Scientists have developed a new method to build durable asphalt pavements that can withstand rutting and cracking due to low temperatures and heavy loads. The method uses the Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) device to assess the thermal cracking of asphalt binders, resulting in more accurate predictions and a faster testing process.

SourceUniversity of Sharjah·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

More CO₂ in the atmosphere during El Niño

A new study reveals that extreme El Niño events are responsible for the increased sensitivity of CO₂ in the atmosphere to tropical temperatures. This finding challenges previous assumptions about climate change and highlights the importance of understanding internal climate variability.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalAdvances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Progression of subclinical atherosclerosis predicts all-cause mortality risk

A study published in JACC demonstrates that subclinical atherosclerosis burden and progression independently predict death from any cause. Asymptomatic individuals with high carotid plaque burden and coronary artery calcification are at increased risk of mortality.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2024

Natural killer cell cellular-based therapeutic options to manage acute myeloid leukemia: prospects and challenges

Natural Killer (NK) cell-based therapies have shown promise in preclinical and clinical studies for treating Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), offering a potential cure with minimal prior antigen sensitization. However, the dysfunction of NK cells in AML patients poses a significant challenge that must be overcome to unlock their full ther...

SourceXia & He Publishing Inc.·JournalOncology Advances·DateSep 30, 2024

New technique improves imaging for lymphatic system

Researchers developed a new imaging technique using shortwave-infrared (SWIR) imaging to visualize the lymphatic system, improving resolution and sensitivity compared to traditional near-infrared (NIR) imaging. SWIR imaging with silver sulfide quantum dots offers superior image resolution and outperforms NIR-I imaging techniques.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers discovered mechanism driving immune perturbations after severe infections

After analyzing human immune cells and TB patients, researchers found that TCA metabolism plays a crucial role in DNA methylation. Adding an inhibitor of TCA activation reduced detrimental marks, suggesting epigenetic healing is possible. This discovery may lead to new treatment strategies for infectious diseases.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

COVID-19 linked to increased risk of acute kidney disorders: New study reveals time-varying effects

A new study reveals a significant association between COVID-19 and acute kidney disorders, including acute kidney injury, peaking during the second week after infection. Healthcare providers should closely monitor kidney function in COVID-19 patients with moderate to severe cases, particularly during the first few weeks after infection.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·DateSep 30, 2024

Syrian hamsters reveal genetic secret to hibernation

Researchers at Hokkaido University have identified a key gene, glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4), that enables Syrian hamsters to survive extreme cold by limiting cellular damage. The discovery could lead to new treatments for human health, such as improving organ preservation and using hypothermia as a therapeutic tool.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCell Death and Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

Heart transplant patients from socioeconomically deprived areas face higher risk for postoperative complications, earlier death than others

Researchers found that heart transplant recipients from most deprived areas had a higher risk of dying within five years and experiencing organ failure compared to those from less deprived areas. Treatment at high-quality hospitals did not translate into better outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Megadiverse flowering plant family on isolated islands

Researchers discovered a massive number of evolutionary events in the Asteraceae family on remote islands, resulting from rapid speciation over short time periods. The findings confirm that larger, isolated islands harbor unique species and highlight the importance of protecting this diverse group of plants.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Researchers integrate fast OCT system into neurosurgical microscope

A new microscope-integrated OCT system has been developed to identify tumor margins during brain surgery, providing high-resolution images of subsurface anatomy. The system has shown promising results in clinical studies, with the potential to improve outcomes for neurosurgery procedures.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateSep 30, 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.

UAF study tracks traveling population wave in Canada lynx

A new UAF study tracked the reproduction, movement and survival of Canada lynx as their population collapsed due to primary prey snowshoe hare cycles. The findings indicate a clear evidence of a traveling population wave originating in the east and moving westward.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2024

A new and unique fusion reactor comes together with PPPL's contributions

The SMall Aspect Ratio Tokamak (SMART) is a compact spherical tokamak that benefits from PPPL computer codes and expertise in magnetics and sensor systems. Negative triangularity is expected to offer enhanced performance by suppressing instabilities and preventing damage to the tokamak wall.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateSep 30, 2024

Reduced risk of serious cardiovascular disease after COVID vaccination

A nationwide Swedish study found that full vaccination significantly reduced the risk of severe cardiovascular outcomes linked to COVID-19, such as heart attack and stroke. However, temporary increases in cardiovascular risk were observed after individual doses, particularly among elderly and males.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Cross-polymerization between bio-oil and polyaniline: synergistic effects on pore development in subsequent activation and adsorption of phenol

Cross-polymerization between bio-oil and polyaniline enhances pore development, yielding a material with high specific surface area and hydrophilicity. The resulting nitrogen-doped porous activated carbon shows superior performance in phenol adsorption.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

A river is pushing up Mount Everest’s peak

A new study finds that a nearby eroding river gorge is causing Mount Everest's peak to rise by 15-50 meters over the past 89,000 years. The research suggests that the loss of landmass due to erosion is causing the mountain to spring upwards by as much as 2 millimeters a year.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

With great power, comes great responsibility: Columbia Nursing study unpacks views on using AI for mental health care

A new Columbia University School of Nursing-led study explores how patients view the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve mental health care. The survey found that 49.3% of participants considered AI beneficial for mental health care, but with concerns over incorrect diagnoses and patient autonomy.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJMIR Mental Health·DateSep 30, 2024

CAR-T safe and effective on an outpatient basis in community hospitals

A study published in Blood Advances found that CAR-T therapy can be administered safely and effectively on an outpatient basis in community hospitals, mitigating barriers to access. The treatment showed high efficacy rates, with 80% of patients experiencing an objective response and 54% achieving a complete response.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateSep 30, 2024

Potential strategy against blood glucose drops in type 1 diabetes

Researchers at University of Gothenburg propose inhibiting somatostatin to restore glucagon release and prevent dangerous blood sugar levels. This approach has the potential to save lives and is supported by experimental results in mice with type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNature Metabolism·DateSep 30, 2024

Female representation improves in high paying medical specialties

The number of female residents matriculating to high-paying medical specialties has increased over the past 14 years, driven by a notable rise in women entering high-compensation surgical fields. Despite ongoing inequities, the proportion of female matriculants to these specialties has risen from 32.7% in 2008 to 40.8% in 2022.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 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.

Better MRI videos thanks to new machine learning method

Researchers at TU Graz have developed a new machine learning method that generates precise live MRI images of the beating heart using only a few MRI measurement data. This breakthrough enables faster and cheaper MRI applications, including quantitative MRI for diagnoses.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalMagnetic Resonance in Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024

uOttawa scientists uncover light absorbing properties of achiral materials

Researchers at the University of Ottawa discovered that engineered achiral materials can selectively absorb twisted light due to interactions between different parts of the wavefront. This finding debunks long-held myths about dichroism in achiral structures, promising advancements in optical devices.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalACS Nano·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 30, 2024

Are snakes in Honshu facing tough times?

Researchers discovered a new North American parasitic worm, Ochetosoma elongatum, in native snake species in the Kanto region. The study found the parasite's route of invasion and published its findings in Parasitology International.

SourceToho University·JournalParasitology International·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Online misinformation most likely to be believed by ideological extremists, new study shows

A new study published in PNAS Nexus reveals that users with extreme political views are more likely to both encounter and believe false news on social media. The researchers used Twitter data and surveys to estimate exposure and belief in articles, finding that early interventions can be effective in reducing the spread of misinformation.

SourceNew York University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeSurvey·DateSep 30, 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.

UTA study suggests simple steps may improve team ethics

A UT Arlington study suggests that speaking up is key to ethical decision-making in research groups. The researchers found that fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to voice concerns can help prevent unethical behavior. An 'ethical champion' who steps up to speak out against potential issues was a common finding.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalScience and Engineering Ethics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2024

Ride-hailing apps mitigate impact of racial discrimination

A study found that ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft mitigate the impact of driver racial discrimination on wait times, but systemic segregation persists. The research estimated that at least 3% of drivers must be discriminating based on race to produce cancellation disparities.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2024

USC-Caltech team tests new noninvasive tool to predict stroke risk

A team of researchers from USC and Caltech developed a new noninvasive tool to measure brain blood pressure, assessing stroke risk through changes in blood flow and volume during a stress test. The affordable, portable device has the potential to transform stroke care by providing more reliable data than existing questionnaires.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2024

'Squeezing' increased accuracy out of quantum measurements

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully applied quantum squeezing to enhance the accuracy of measurements in complex quantum systems. By reducing uncertainty in one aspect while increasing it in another, they can measure variables like position and momentum with greater precision.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateSep 30, 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.

New brain-mapping tool may be the “START” of next-generation therapeutics

A new brain-mapping neurotechnology called Single Transcriptome Assisted Rabies Tracing (START) has been developed to map the brain's intricate neuronal connections. The technique combines two advanced technologies to resolve cortical connectivity at the resolution of transcriptomic cell types, enabling the identification of distinct p...

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateSep 30, 2024

Study: Time-restricted eating may improve health of adults with metabolic syndrome

A recent study found that limiting food consumption within a 10-hour window per day improved key indicators of heart health in adults with metabolic syndrome. The study demonstrated significant reductions in blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as lower levels of hemoglobin A1c, a marker of long-term blood sugar management.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 30, 2024

New brain cell cleaner: astrocytes raise possibility of Alzheimer’s disease treatment

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism involving astrocytes for treating Alzheimer's disease, revealing that autophagy pathway in astrocytes removes toxic proteins and recovers memory and cognitive functions. Astrocytic autophagy plasticity modulates Aβ clearance and improves brain function recovery.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·DateSep 30, 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.

Model projects energy storage needs for fossil fuel-free energy system

Researchers developed a model to project Italy's energy storage needs for a renewable energy system, accounting for daily and seasonal fluctuations. The model suggests that increasing short-term energy storage capacity is critical for decarbonizing the power sector.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2024

Immunotherapy for gum disease? Study in mice shows promise

A new study published in PNAS suggests that delivering microparticles containing CCL2 directly to the gums can inhibit bone loss and speed up bone repair in a mouse model of periodontal disease. The therapy modulates the immune response, shifting macrophages from inflammatory M1 type to anti-inflammatory M2 type.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2024

Presence of subclinical atherosclerosis is marker of mortality and its progression increases risk of death

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that subclinical atherosclerosis is independently associated with the risk of dying from any cause. The study also showed that monitoring the progression of atherosclerosis can improve the prediction and prevention of death from any cause.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 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.

Inflation Reduction Act funding to allow Illinois scientists to contribute to US governmental efforts and improve mitigation estimates for agriculture management practices

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment will receive funding to improve mitigation estimates for agricultural management practices. The funding will support the work of researchers in advancing the understanding of conservation practices on greenhouse gas fluxes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·DateSep 30, 2024

Research alert: skin barrier protein also protects against inflammation

Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine identified ZNF750 as a key player in controlling inflammation, shedding light on susceptibility to inflammatory skin diseases. The study paves the way for more effective therapies and broader insights into molecular biology of skin cells.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalImmunity·DateSep 30, 2024

Pantanal Study shows how emissions from Brazilian Pantanal’s soda lakes contribute to climate change

The Pantanal's soda lakes, characterized by high pH and salinity, have practically dried up due to rising temperatures and wildfires. The study found that certain types of lakes, such as eutrophic turbid lakes, emit methane due to cyanobacterial blooms and decomposing organic matter.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateSep 30, 2024

New tool can assess elderly dogs’ frailty

Researchers developed a frailty screening questionnaire that predicts short-term mortality in dogs aged 10 and older. The tool, combined with veterinarian assessments of body and muscle condition, is a simple yet effective predictor of canine frailty.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 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.

Drivers of electric vehicles are more likely to be at fault in road traffic crashes than drivers of petrol and diesel cars

A comparative study by Lero reveals that electric vehicles have a higher chance of experiencing an at-fault insurance claim, with a 4% increase in crashes compared to internal combustion engines. The research also found that hybrids show no further increased risk, indicating EVs have a higher risk profile.

SourceLero·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2024