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Science News Archive September 2024 - Page 17


Page 17 of 41

Understanding changes in pre-clinical Alzheimer’s disease

A new study found that amyloid-beta and tau proteins affect brain activity differently, with increased levels leading to hyperactivity and decreased levels resulting in hypoactivity. Participants with higher rates of this brain slowing showed greater cognitive decline in attention and memory.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Rugged Falklands landscape was once a lush rainforest

A team of researchers found evidence of a lush, diverse rainforest on the Falkland Islands up to 30 million years ago. The South Atlantic archipelago was covered in cool, wet woodland similar to present-day rainforests found in Tierra del Fuego.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalAntarctic Science·DateSep 18, 2024

Non-invasive method to predict survival in patients with liver cancer

A recent study found a correlation between higher anti-PD-1 autoantibody levels and lower survival rates in patients with advanced liver cancer, suggesting these autoantibodies as potential biomarkers for predicting treatment response. The discovery aims to improve treatment regimens for patients with liver cancer.

SourceOkayama University·JournalGastro Hep Advances·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 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.

Gargantuan black hole jets are biggest seen yet

Astronomers have discovered the largest pair of black hole jets yet, stretching 23 million light-years and equivalent to 140 Milky Way galaxies. This finding suggests that these massive jet systems may have played a significant role in shaping galaxies in the early universe.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 18, 2024

Another new wasp species discovered by researchers Rice campus

Rice University researchers have identified a new parasitoid wasp species, Chrysonotomyia susbelli, found on the university grounds in Houston, Texas. The discovery reveals an intricate ecosystem involving galls and cynipid gall wasps, with potential for many more undiscovered species.

SourceRice University·JournalZooKeys·DateSep 18, 2024

Some diabetes drugs tied to lower risk of dementia, Parkinson’s disease

A class of diabetes medications called SGLT2 inhibitors may reduce the risk of dementia and Parkinson's disease. The study found that people taking these drugs had a 20% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, 30% lower risk of vascular dementia, and 20% lower risk of Parkinson's disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 18, 2024

Proteins in meat, milk, and other foods suppress gut tumors

A new study published in Frontiers in Immunology reveals that certain food proteins like milk and meat can help keep gut tumors from growing by triggering the intestinal immune system. This discovery has potential clinical implications for patients with gastrointestinal conditions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateSep 18, 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.

Penny for your thoughts? Master copper regulator discovery may offer Alzheimer’s clues

A recent study by FAU researchers links copper regulation to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. The team discovered that a specific gene, swip-10, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of copper in cells, which can prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Measuring how much wood a wood shuck shucks with all-new wood shuck food

Researchers at Kobe University have created a new test feed for the fungal molecular machine, allowing them to observe its close-to-natural action. This breakthrough enables the characterization of the enzyme's reaction speed and affinity, crucial parameters for industrial application.

SourceKobe University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

South African rock art possibly inspired by long-extinct species

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that South African rock art from the 19th century may be inspired by an extinct species of tusked animal called a dicynodont. The artwork, created by the San people, features a long-bodied animal with downward-turned tusks that is comparable to fossilized remains found in the region.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cancer Cooperative Group leaders propose a re-engineering of the nation’s correlative science program for cancer

The Cancer Cooperative Group System is being re-engineered to bring new money to correlative science research through public-private partnerships, aiming to remove barriers for researchers to access biological samples. This will facilitate the integration of innovative science into cancer clinical trials.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 18, 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.

Brigham researchers use machine learning to improve cardiovascular risk assessment

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital used advanced machine learning to increase the accuracy of a national cardiovascular risk calculator while preserving its interpretability. The results showed higher accuracy overall in an electronic health records cohort, reclassifying one out of ten patients into a different risk category.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateSep 18, 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.

Sea surface temperature record in the southwestern Pacific: Coral colony from Fiji reveals warmest temperatures in over 600 years

A coral colony from Fiji has provided a new record of sea surface temperatures in the southwestern Pacific, revealing that 2022 was the warmest year in over 600 years. The reconstruction uses data from the giant coral Diploastrea heliopora, which records long-term climatic and environmental changes.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 18, 2024

Incidence of neuroleptic malignant syndrome during antipsychotic treatment in children and youth

A new study found that patients with 4 or 5 identified risk factors, including age 18-24 years and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, had over 100 times the incidence of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome. The data provide a basis for early identification and monitoring of children and youth at elevated risk.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 18, 2024

Nonfatal opioid overdoses in youth spiked during pandemic

Nonfatal opioid overdoses in youth increased significantly during the pandemic, with a majority (86%) occurring among young adults and adolescents aged 12-17 experiencing a high-risk trend. Keeping naloxone at home is crucial to preventing overdose deaths.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA·DateSep 18, 2024

Breast and ovarian cancer newly linked to thousands of gene variants

Researchers identified over 3,000 harmful genetic changes in the RAD51C gene that increase ovarian cancer risk six-fold and breast cancer risk four-fold. These findings can help doctors and diagnostic laboratory scientists better assess cancer risk and provide more personalized care.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Why petting your cat leads to static electricity

Researchers at Northwestern University have finally uncovered the mechanics of static electricity generated by rubbing objects together, explaining how forces on different parts of an object create electrical charges and a current. This breakthrough could lead to new solutions for industrial fires, pharmaceutical dosing, and other issu...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 18, 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.

Magnifying deep space through the “carousel lens”

A newly discovered cluster-scale strong gravitational lens, the Carousel Lens, enables researchers to study cosmology and the properties of dark matter and dark energy. The unique alignment of seven background galaxies forms concentric circular patterns around a foreground galaxy cluster.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateSep 18, 2024

Hemp shows high promise as potential natural insecticide

A study published in the journal Insects found that hemp leaf extract containing cannabidiol (CBD) is effective in killing mosquito larvae, including those resistant to typical insecticides. The research suggests CBD's potential as a safe and sustainable alternative for controlling mosquito populations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInsects·DateSep 18, 2024

Second life of lithium-ion batteries could take us to space

Scientists have developed an electrochemical approach using catalysts derived from used lithium-ion batteries to produce hydrogen peroxide. The method utilizes carbon nanostructures and cobalt, displaying catalytic properties in oxygen reduction reactions.

SourcePolitechnika Bydgoska im Jana i Jedrzeja Sniadeckich·JournalChemElectroChem·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 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.

If you build it, will they come? Wildlife corridors need smarter design

A University of Maryland study highlights the complexity of designing wildlife corridors, which can vary widely in their effectiveness depending on the evaluation method used. The research found that none of the tested corridor designs captured all black bear movements, and some even failed to account for unique dispersal behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalLandscape Ecology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 18, 2024

Can the MIND diet lower the risk of memory problems later in life?

Researchers discovered that those following the MIND diet closely had a reduced risk of cognitive impairment compared to low-diet adherents. The high-diet group showed a 4% decreased risk of cognitive decline, with significant benefits for female participants and Black individuals.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 18, 2024

When serotonin dims the light

Researchers discover 5-HT2A receptor selectively suppresses visual information strength without inhibiting parallel processes. This mechanism regulates the importance attached to incoming information, which could help develop new therapies for psychiatric diseases.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

The memory in seeds: how plants carry environmental clues across generations

A recent study investigated Arabidopsis thaliana grown under different light conditions across generations, demonstrating how maternal environments shape offspring traits. The findings provide new insights into plant adaptation strategies for agriculture and ecological conservation.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 18, 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.

Widely used test for gestational diabetes misses 70% of cases

A Kobe University study found that the widely used casual blood glucose testing method for screening pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus misses 70% of cases. The researchers recommend using more reliable tests to prevent pregnancy complications and type II diabetes in mothers and children.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Diabetes Investigation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 18, 2024

From neutralizing water contamination to creating full-taste, reduced alcohol wine and spirits: success in world first liquid-liquid extraction trial opens up a realm of possibilities

Researchers at the University of Birmingham used Porous Liquids to separate harmful alcohols from water mixtures, consuming up to 88% of the PL pore volume. This innovation can reduce alcohol content in drinks while retaining flavor profiles, aligning with growing consumer demand for low-alcohol beverages.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

How do look for microbes in nature that are beneficial to plant?

This study identifies Paenarthrobacter nitroguajacolicus as a potential biocontrol agent against cucumber corynespora leaf spot fungus, promoting cucumber growth and reducing disease severity. BJ-5 inhibited the germination of fungal spores and caused atrophy in budding tubes, with an inhibition efficacy rate of 63%.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Nanotechnology: DNA origami with cargo function

Researchers have developed a DNA origami-based sensor that can detect lipid vesicles and deliver molecular cargo with precision. The system uses single-molecule Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (smFRET) to measure the distance between fluorescent molecules.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 18, 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.

Could your phone detect hepatic encephalopathy by listening to you read?

Researchers developed a multi-variable model called Hear-MHE that analyzes speech patterns to identify symptoms of minimal hepatic encephalopathy. The test shows promise in predicting overt hepatic encephalopathy and could lead to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHepatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 18, 2024

Scientists quantify energetic costs of the migratory lifestyle in a free flying songbird

Researchers found that migrating blackbirds do not save energy in warmer climates, but instead reduce their metabolism before departure. The study reveals a previously unknown mechanism used by migrants to save energy prior to migration, and suggests alternative physiological adaptations may offset the energy costs of migration.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2024

Greenhouse gains: cucumbers get a genetic upgrade through innovative pollen tech

Scientists at Pusan National University have achieved a breakthrough in plant biotechnology by introducing foreign genes into cucumber pollen using DNA-coated magnetic nanoparticles. The new technique significantly streamlines crop genetic modification, offering a quicker and more accessible method to produce transgenic plants.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalHorticulture Research·DateSep 18, 2024

Scientists find new epigenetic switch

Researchers have identified a new epigenetic mark, 5-formylcytosine, which plays a crucial role in activating genes during early embryonic development. This discovery sheds light on the regulation of gene expression in vertebrates and has implications for our understanding of human development and disease.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalCell·DateSep 18, 2024

An innovative system for seeing into the bowels of volcanos

Researchers from CNRS and Paris Institute of Planetary Physics developed an innovative imaging method to probe volcano internal structure. The study revealed a large magma storage zone beneath La Soufriere volcano, providing greater anticipation for volcanic eruptions.

SourceCNRS·JournalCommunications·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 18, 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.

Metal exposure can increase cardiovascular disease risk

A study published in JACC found that metal exposure is associated with progression of plaque buildup in the arteries, comparable to traditional risk factors like smoking and diabetes. The findings support considering metal exposure as a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 18, 2024

New study unveils the impact of mutations in the calcium release channel on muscle diseases

Mutations in the fifth segment of the ryanodine receptor channel (S5) lead to altered gating mechanisms and muscle disorders. The study identified three mutations linked to malignant hyperthermia and eight associated with central core disease, highlighting a novel regulatory mechanism of the RyR1 channel.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Versatile knee exo for safer lifting

A new knee exoskeleton has been developed to support the quadriceps muscles during lifting tasks, helping workers maintain better posture even when fatigued. The device, which uses a complex algorithm to predict assistance needs, enabled participants to lift faster and with improved posture.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Robotics·DateSep 18, 2024

Bone marrow cancer drug shows success in treatment of rare blood disorder

Researchers found a significant reduction in nosebleed severity, fewer transfusions, and improved quality of life in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia treated with pomalidomide. The trial's results offer hope for people with this rare bleeding disorder.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 18, 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.

One in five UK doctors use AI chatbots

A survey of UK general practitioners reveals that 20% of doctors use generative AI tools like ChatGPT in their practice. The study highlights the potential benefits of AI in reducing administrative burdens and supporting clinical decision-making, but also raises concerns about errors, biases, and patient privacy.

SourceUppsala University·JournalBMJ Health & Care Informatics·TypeSurvey·DateSep 18, 2024

Exploring the effect of low sodium concentrations on brain microglial cells

Researchers found that low extracellular sodium concentrations decrease specific mRNA expression and nitric oxide production in microglia, potentially contributing to hyponatremia-induced neuronal dysfunctions. Microglial activation can lead to inflammation and regulate neurotransmission.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Study outlines cost-effective paths to eliminating greenhouse gas production

A new study identifies multiple technologies to cost-effectively decarbonize the energy system, prioritizing their adoption and transition. The findings suggest a range of options to achieve near-cost-optimal futures, emphasizing research and development investments.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 18, 2024

Mental health challenges faced by children with cystic fibrosis are the focus of a major, multisite study led by UB

A University at Buffalo psychiatrist has been awarded $3 million to focus on the mental health of children with cystic fibrosis. The study will evaluate national prevalence of mental health concerns in children under 12, identify best screening methods and characterize issues seen in treated children. Early identification and addressin...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateSep 18, 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.

Flexible circuits made with silk and graphene on the horizon

Researchers at PNNL create a uniform two-dimensional layer of silk protein fragments on graphene, enabling the design and fabrication of silk-based electronics. This biocompatible system has potential applications in wearable and implantable health sensors, as well as computing neural networks.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Kidney stone grant to create research resource for adults and children

The grant will create the Urinary Stone Disease Hub, combining medical expertise across adult and pediatric urology and nephrology, informatics, and AI to establish a novel data resource. The hub will include clinically important information from CT images, clinical notes, stone composition, and 24-hour urine labs.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateSep 18, 2024