Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2020 - Page 26


Page 26 of 40

NIST researchers link quartz microbalance measurements to international measurement system

Researchers at NIST have found a way to link measurements made by a device integral to microchip fabrication directly to the recently redefined International System of Units (SI), increasing users' confidence in their measurements. The device, a quartz crystal microbalance, is critically important to industries that rely on precision c...

Cracking the code for hookworm infestation

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a key mechanism that enables hookworms to evade the human immune system. By understanding how these parasites destroy neutrophil extracellular traps, scientists may be able to develop vaccines to boost immunity and prevent reinfection.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 12, 2020

Graphene forms under microscope's eye

Researchers at Rice University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a new method to produce laser-induced graphene (LIG) with features more than 60% smaller than traditional macro versions. This technique creates LIG with almost 10 times smaller dimensions, making it ideal for flexible electronics applications. The scientists su...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 12, 2020

More than just a carnival trick: Researchers can guess your age based on your microbes

A new study has found that researchers can accurately predict a person's chronological age using machine learning algorithms and microbiome samples. The study analyzed data from over 4,400 participants across various body sites, including skin, saliva, and feces, and found significant gender-specific differences in gut microbiome results.

Personalized cancer vaccines

Researchers at EPFL have created a prototype vaccine that can travel to the desired location and activate immune cells, overcoming two major obstacles in therapeutic cancer vaccines. The Polycondensate Neoepitope (PNE) combines a patented technique with an algorithm for predicting mutated tumor antigens.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Central Science·DateFeb 11, 2020

Pedal to the metal: Speeding up treatments for ALS

Researchers found that healthy cells clear harmful aggregates via endocytosis, a process previously thought to occur only on external substances. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for ALS by increasing the efficiency of endocytosis. The next step is to develop ways to enhance this process using genetic and chemical methods.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

DIY tools TalkBox and SenseBox help people with disabilities to communicate

Researchers at University of Maryland Baltimore County developed DIY assistive technology platforms, including TalkBox and SenseBox, to facilitate communication for people with disabilities. These open-source platforms use low-cost sensors and a Raspberry Pi to enable users to communicate through images, sounds, or tactile objects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalIEEE Pervasive Computing·DateFeb 11, 2020

Making 3-D printing smarter with machine learning

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering develop machine learning algorithms to predict shape deviations in 3-D printing, resulting in improved accuracy across various applications and materials. The software tool, PrintFixer, is designed to be accessible to industry professionals and hobbyists alike.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering·DateFeb 11, 2020