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Science News Archive 2023


Page 191 of 444

HKUMed finds metformin could promote healthy ageing based on genetics

A study published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity found that metformin may promote healthy ageing by reducing biomarkers of ageing and increasing telomere length. The research team used genetic analysis to identify variants associated with metformin use, suggesting a potential role for the drug in promoting healthy longevity.

New sensor mimics cell membrane functions

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel sensor that can detect immune molecule CXCL12, which plays a crucial role in several human diseases including cancer. The device uses receptor proteins found in cell membranes, making it a potential tool for early screening of hard-to-diagnose cancers.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Detection of bacteria and viruses with fluorescent nanotubes

Researchers developed modular optical sensors capable of detecting viruses and bacteria using fluorescent carbon nanotubes with DNA anchors. The sensors showed high reliability and selectivity in detecting SARS-CoV-2 protein, offering advantages for complex environments and future diagnostic applications.

NIH grant to facilitate high-speed bioprinting of bones, tracheas, organs

Researchers at Penn State have received a $2 million NIH grant to develop high-throughput spheroid (HTS) bioprinting technology, which can quickly fabricate scalable, native tissues. The technology has the potential to repair bone in sensitive places like the skull and could be used for implantation, research, or disease modeling.

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.

Bodybuilding supplement may help stave off Alzheimer’s

A muscle-building supplement called beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) has been shown to reduce plaques and increase factors for neuronal growth in mice with Alzheimer's-like pathology. The study found that HMB stimulates a nuclear hormone receptor to improve memory and learning in mice with Alzheimer's disease.

Research reveals the scale of disorder underpinning Motor Neurone Disease

A study published in Neuron reveals that hundreds of proteins and mRNA molecules are found in the wrong place in nerve cells affected by Motor Neurone Disease, a condition that causes paralysis. The researchers found that mislocalisation affects many more proteins than first thought, especially those involved in RNA binding.

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.

Fly toolkit created for investigating COVID-19 infection mechanisms

A new 'fly-to-bedside' resource has been developed to sort through the complexities of SARS-CoV-2 virus-host interactions. Researchers found that nine out of 10 non-structural proteins resulted in wing defects, providing a basis for understanding how viral proteins affect host proteins.

Revealing HIV drug-resistance mechanisms through protein structures

Researchers at Salk Institute discovered molecular mechanisms of HIV drug-resistance to Dolutegravir, a breakthrough that could lead to the development of new HIV therapeutics. The study revealed how changes in integrase protein structure can lead to resistance and how another compound, 4d, may overcome this resistance.

Novel targets identified for treatment of schistosomiasis

Researchers discovered that long non-coding RNAs are essential for the survival of the parasitic worm causing schistosomiasis. Silencing these RNAs prevents reproduction and egg release, leading to parasite death. This finding offers a promising new approach to treating this neglected disease.

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.

Going the distance for better wireless charging

A better way to wirelessly charge over long distances has been developed, utilizing the phenomenon of radiation suppression. The research shows high transfer efficiency, over 80 percent, can be achieved at distances approximately five times the size of the antenna.

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.

Animal testing under REACH: bringing numbers into the debate

A study from Konstanz and Baltimore reveals that around 4.2 million animals have been used for hazard assessment under REACH, with many more expected due to a 2022 revision. Animal-free alternative methods are advocated by researchers, who argue that they provide more meaningful results than animal testing.

Researchers illuminate resilience of U.S. food supply chains

Researchers identified structural chokepoints in US agri-food supply chains to enhance resilience and security, critical for global food systems. The study's findings may inform policies aimed at bolstering the nation's ability to respond to threats.

Researchers decipher the secrets of Benjamin Franklin’s paper money

A team of researchers at the University of Notre Dame analyzed nearly 600 colonial notes to understand Franklin's innovative techniques for making paper money. They found distinctive security features, including pigments and materials like muscovite that made his bills harder to counterfeit.

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.

To stick or to bounce: Size determines the stickiness of cosmic dust aggregates

Research suggests that larger cosmic dust aggregates are less likely to stick together after collisions. This limits the growth of planetary building blocks, complicating the process of planet formation. Simulations reveal that size is a critical factor in determining sticking probability, with larger aggregates more prone to bouncing.

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.

Probiotic combo stops bacteria that cause toxic shock syndrome

A combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus strains successfully inhibited the production of superantigens causing toxic shock syndrome. Probiotics may also prevent growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a virulent strain that produces proteins triggering the disease.

Male crickets court females in unison – unless rivals get too close

In a study published in Animal Behaviour, researchers found that male field crickets adjust their song patterns based on the proximity of rivals. When another cricket is within one meter, males are less likely to sing, suggesting they prioritize territorial defense over courtship displays.

Miocene period fossil forest of Wataria found in Japan

A research team from Hokkaido University has found an exceptionally preserved fossil forest of Wataria parvipora, which was predominantly accompanied by Byttneriophyllum leaves. The discovery helps reconstruct a whole Eurasian plant from the late Miocene epoch and sheds light on the taxonomic identity of plants.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

The Pacific slope of Peru is greening, and this is not good news

A recent study reveals a massive section of the Andes experiencing significant greening, defying climate zone expectations. The researchers found that this area, stretching from northern Peru to northern Chile, has seen its vegetation growing significantly over the past 20 years.

Association between cervical cancer screening guidelines and preterm delivery

A study finds that additional recommended cervical cancer screenings before birth are associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery. The findings suggest that cervical cancer screening guidelines should consider the downstream implications for preterm delivery risk when weighing population-level costs against benefits.

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.

Discovery may lead to terahertz technology for quantum sensing

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a metal oxide that can enable terahertz technology for quantum sensing. The material, strontium titanate, exhibits unique properties that allow it to interact strongly with terahertz light, forming new particles called phonon-polaritons.

New advancements in assay development research

The latest issue of SLAS Discovery features novel technologies and approaches to develop and characterize chemical and biological tools for human disease treatment. The journal reports on high-throughput screening-related research, including fluorescence polarization assay use and glycomimetics.

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.

Ultra-processed foods largely missing from US food policy

A new study finds that only a small number of US policies consider ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to weight gain, diabetes, and certain cancers. The US lacks national dietary guidelines for these foods, despite international countries like Belgium, Brazil, and Israel having incorporated them.

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.

A new Achilles heel of the bacterial cell wall

Researchers discovered a central regulator, DipM, controlling multiple autolysins and promoting cell constriction in Caulobacter crescentus. The study reveals DipM's role in coordinating bacterial cell wall remodeling and division processes.

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.