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Science News Archive December 2019


Page 33 of 36

As a way to fight climate change, not all soils are created equal

Researchers at Colorado State University reveal that soil organic matter has two distinct components: particulate and mineral-associated organic matter, which differ in their origin, makeup, and persistence. Recognizing this diversity is essential for developing effective strategies to sequester carbon and promote soil health.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Imaging reveals pathways behind depression

Two studies presented at RSNA 2019 used MRI and functional imaging to reveal disrupted blood-brain barriers in patients with major depressive disorder. The findings suggest a link between impaired brain connectivity and emotional regulation, potentially leading to new treatments for depression.

Metalens grows up

Scientists at Harvard University created an all-glass, centimeter-scale metalens with nanostructures that can focus light, revolutionizing applications like microscopy, cameras, and sensors. The breakthrough enables mass production of large metalenses using conventional chip fabrication methods.

Early immune response may improve cancer immunotherapies

Researchers discovered a new mechanism for detecting foreign material during early immune responses, which could help detect elusive cancers. ERAP1 protein can break down peptides bound to MHC I, allowing immune cells to recognize and destroy infected cells.

Highly sensitive epigenomic technology combats disease

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a microfluidic technology to study diseases such as breast cancer and schizophrenia using low-input sequencing methods like MOWChIP-seq, allowing for the analysis of epigenomes in smaller cell numbers.

VTT developed an optical fiber made of cellulose

Researchers at VTT created an optical fibre from cellulose, suitable for measuring moisture levels in buildings. The cellulose-based fibre absorbs and releases water, allowing for accurate measurements.

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.

Healing power of honey

Researchers at Newcastle University have found that layering Manuka honey between layers of surgical mesh acts as a natural antibiotic, inhibiting bacteria growth and preventing infection. The study showcases the potential benefits of infusing medical implants with honey, offering an alternative to antibiotics.

How the strep bacterium hides from the immune system

A study reveals that Group A Streptococcus produces a novel protein called S protein, which binds to red blood cells to evade the immune system. This mechanism increases bacterial virulence and decreases survival in infected mice.

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.

Raising plants to withstand climate change

Flinders University researchers have developed a method to enhance plant tolerance to climate change stressors by manipulating mitochondrial respiration. This approach has shown promise in improving plant recovery from drought and high light conditions.

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.

Hiring antibodies as nanotechnology builders

A team of researchers at the University of Rome Tor Vergata has developed a novel approach to build and dismantle DNA nanostructures using antibodies. They engineered DNA bricks with recognition tags that assemble in the presence of specific antibodies, enabling the creation of intelligent nanostructures with potential applications in ...

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.

Through the eyes of animals

The Quantitative Colour Pattern Analysis (QCPA) framework uses digital image processing techniques to analyze complex visual information in animals. This enables researchers to understand how animals see the world, including color patterns and behavior, which drives their behavior.

New remote-controlled 'smart' platform helps in cardiovascular disease treatment

Researchers developed a remote-controlled 'smart' platform to mimic natural extracellular matrix-mediated endothelialization. The platform uses shape-memory polymers and gold nanorods to direct programmed vascular endothelium remodeling in a temporally controllable manner, offering new possibilities for treating cardiovascular disease.

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.

New study looks at motorized scooter injuries

A new study analyzed X-ray and CT scans of people injured in e-scooter accidents, finding that the majority had injuries to their upper extremities, particularly wrists. The study emphasizes the importance of helmet use and speed limits to prevent such injuries.

CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing shows very low risk of mistakes

A recent study published in Frontiers in Genetics confirms that CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology is highly accurate and minimizes off-target effects. The research, conducted on zebrafish, adds to a growing body of work suggesting that unintended mutations from gene editing are extremely rare.

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.

AI improves chest X-ray interpretation

Researchers developed AI models for chest X-ray interpretation that can detect fractures, nodules, opacity and pneumothorax as effectively as experienced radiologists. The models were trained on large datasets and evaluated using a panel of radiologists to increase expert consensus and accuracy.

Laws help reduce pollution and do not affect competitiveness, study finds

A recent study by researchers at the University of Granada found that laws and regulations play a crucial role in reducing pollution, with compulsory laws exerting a stronger effect than voluntary measures. The study, which analyzed over 70 studies and 97,000 firm observations from around the world, concludes that outcome-based regulat...

Imaging technique gives catalytic 2D material engineering a better view

Researchers at Kanazawa University develop a scanning electrochemical cell microscopy technique to engineer the catalytic properties of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides. The study reveals changes in catalytic activity at edges, terrace features and heterojunctions, which agrees with previous reports.

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.

NASA catches typhoon Kammuri post landfall

Typhoon Kammuri made landfall in the Philippines on December 2, bringing maximum sustained winds of 115 knots. NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite provided infrared and nighttime imagery of the storm, revealing a thick band of powerful thunderstorms around its eye.

Concussion alters how information is transmitted within the brain

A new study reveals that concussion damage affects the way information is transmitted between brain hemispheres. Researchers found a delay in reaction time when processing words presented to the left visual field, indicating a problem with information crossing from one hemisphere to another.

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.

For some corals, meals can come with a side of microplastics

A new study found that corals are more likely to eat microplastics when fed other food sources, but not when given microplastics alone. The research suggests that some coral species may adapt to life with microplastics, while others may be negatively impacted by chronic exposure.

Love, lies and money: Study introduces, defines and measures financial infidelity

Researchers introduce the concept of financial infidelity, defined as engaging in a financial behavior expected to elicit disapproval and intentionally failing to disclose it. The study's findings reveal that consumers prone to financial infidelity exhibit stronger preferences for secretive purchase options and concealing their actions.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Gas giant composition not determined by host star

Researchers find no correlation between a gas giant planet's composition and its host star's heavy element content, contradicting previous theories on planetary formation. The authors suggest other factors, such as location in the disk or distance from neighbors, may be contributing to this discrepancy.

Fake news feels less immoral to share when we've seen it before

Repeated exposure to fake news can make it seem more acceptable to share, even if individuals know it's false. In a series of experiments involving over 2,500 participants, researchers found that people rate fake headlines as less unethical to publish and share when seen multiple times.

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.

Two chiral catalysts working hand in hand

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has developed a new synthetic method for producing all four stereoisomers of α,β-disubstituted γ-butyrolactones. The method uses two chiral catalysts working in tandem to efficiently produce the final product.

Building a better breast with eye-tracking technology

A new study by Piotr Pietruski and colleagues used eye-tracking technology to assess breast aesthetics and symmetry. The findings suggest that the lower breast area, particularly the nipple-areola complex, is a key factor in determining attractiveness.

Cats' faces hard to read, except for 'cat whisperers,' research finds

Researchers from the University of Guelph have found that some individuals excel at deciphering subtle differences in cat facial expressions to gauge their emotions. Women and those with veterinary experience were particularly skilled at recognizing these cues, even among those without a strong attachment to cats.

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.

Tracking emissions from US electricity consumption

The study reveals that the western United States saw the highest electrical transfers, leading to 17% of regional emissions attributed to these exports. The Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland Power Pool had the largest consumption-based carbon footprint, accounting for 19% of US annual emissions.

Australian GPs widely offering placebos, new study finds

A new study found that most Australian GPs have used a placebo in practice at least once, with active placebos being more commonly used than inert ones. The study suggests that GPs use placebos because they believe it can provide genuine benefit and shape patients' expectations.

Protein defect leaves sperm chasing their tails

A team of researchers from Osaka University identified a key protein required for electrical signal sensing in sperm, which is defective in individuals experiencing reduced fertility. The study's findings suggest that the protein regulates ion channel activity, affecting sperm motility and potentially leading to new fertility treatments.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Sustaining roads with grape and agricultural waste

A team of WSU researchers created a more sustainable solution for winter road maintenance by using grape extract as a natural deicer. The solution melts ice faster and causes less damage to concrete and asphalt than traditional deicers.

Study highlights potential for 'liquid health check' to predict disease risk

A study published in Nature Medicine reveals a potential 'liquid health check' that uses proteins in blood to predict disease risk and improve preventative medicine. The technique, involving large-scale measurement of proteins, has shown promise for identifying health states and conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Micro implants could restore standing and walking

Researchers at the University of Alberta have made a breakthrough in restoring lower-body function after severe spinal injuries using tiny spinal implants. The implants use hair-like electrical wires to trigger the networks that already know how to do the hard work, and have shown remarkable consistency across the animal spectrum.