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Science News Archive 2023


Page 193 of 444

Device makes hydrogen from sunlight with record efficiency

Rice University engineers have created a device that converts sunlight into hydrogen with unprecedented efficiency, opening up new possibilities for clean energy and sustainable fuel production. The innovative technology uses halide perovskite semiconductors and electrocatalysts in a single, durable device.

From chaos to light

A team of researchers from EPFL has found a way to harness the unique features of chaotic frequency combs to implement unambiguous and interference-immune massively parallel laser ranging. This innovative approach offers significant advantages over conventional methods, enabling hundreds of multicolor independent optical carriers.

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.

Desert microbes turn on drought tolerance when needed

Researchers at KAUST have isolated a desert microbial strain that enhances drought resilience in Arabidopsis and alfalfa, promoting water use efficiency without affecting crop yields. The microbes modify epigenetic status of drought stress genes and actively change plant root architecture.

Synthetic peptide to kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers at IISc designed a short peptide that targets topoisomerases in disease-causing bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant species. The peptide effectively killed bacterial cells and reduced infection in animal models, providing leads for combination therapy with existing antibiotics.

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.

Paleontologists identify two new species of sabertooth cat

Researchers discover two new sabertooth species, Dinofelis werdelini and Lokotunjailurus chimsamyae, in a global analysis of Langebaanweg fossils. The study reveals a diverse range of environments in Africa, with Machairodonti cats suggesting open grasslands and Metailurini cats indicating forested areas.

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.

Biophysicists reveal how three proteins interact to fine-tune cellular movement

Researchers at Emory University have discovered a new paradigm for understanding how actin filaments are formed and fine-tuned in cells. They found that three proteins - formin, twinfilin, and capping protein - work together to regulate the activity of actin filaments, allowing for more precise control of cellular movement.

A new device records brain activity from inside blood vessels

A new device, pioneered by Anqi Zhang, can record brain activity without harming neural tissue, using the passageways of blood vessels. This innovation overcomes previous limitations, enabling precise recording from individual neurons in living animals.

Majority of older adults with cognitive impairment still drive

A Michigan Medicine study in Texas found that 61.4% of older adults with cognitive impairment are still driving, but one-third of caregivers have concerns about their care recipient's ability to drive safely. Researchers emphasize the need for open discussions between caregivers and healthcare professionals to ensure safety.

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.

(How) cells talk to each other

Researchers from ISTA and NUS developed a new theoretical model to understand long-range cell-cell communication. The model reveals the interplay between mechanical forces and biochemical signals in cells, shedding light on complex biological phenomena. It has potential applications in wound healing and understanding tissue behavior.

Gene variation makes apple trees ‘weep,’ improving orchards

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a mutation in the MdLAZY1A gene responsible for the 'weeping' growth pattern in apple trees. This finding could lead to more productive and labor-saving orchards by allowing branches to grow downwards, thereby increasing resource allocation towards reproductive growth.

These bones were made for walking

Researchers at Columbia University and the University of Texas uncovered the genomic regions responsible for skeletal changes in primates that led to upright walking. The study found genes associated with hip, knee, and back arthritis, offering insights into prevention and treatment.

New research sheds light on factors influencing trust and bias in societies

Researchers found that people with positive perceptions of their nation's institutions show more favoritism toward fellow citizens. Conversely, a strong identification with one's own nation aligns with previous studies. The study suggests support for national institutions can pose challenges to establishing trust across borders.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How rhomboid protease activity is regulated

Rhomboid proteases play a key role in several diseases, including Parkinson's disease and cancer. A recent study using solid-state NMR spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the opening of a gate is crucial for enzyme activity.

New study reveals reptiles’ spontaneous association between vision and hearing

A new study reveals that reptiles demonstrate spontaneous associations between visual and auditory information, including tortoises associating low sounds with large shapes and high pitch sounds with small shapes. This discovery shows how brains are prepared to predict visuo-acoustic correspondences likely to occur in the natural world.

Malnutrition during pregnancy increases diabetes incidence

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub found a significant link between malnutrition during pregnancy and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The study analyzed data from over 3.5 million people in Austria and found that men born during severe famine periods had a 78% higher incidence rate of new diabetes cases.

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.

Living together: Microbial communities are more than the sum of their parts

Researchers found that most microbial pairs fail to coexist, challenging the long-held hypothesis that every pair of microbes must also coexist in a bigger community. This study highlights the need for new predictive tools to engineer successful microbial communities, essential for biotechnology applications.

Detecting threats beyond the limits of human, sensor sight

The Multi-frame Moving Object Detection System enhances remote sensing applications by detecting objects as small as one pixel in low-visibility conditions. It improves signal-to-noise ratio and detects fast- and slow-moving objects with high accuracy.

The present and future of computing get a boost from new research

Researchers have made breakthroughs in two areas of computing: improving current semiconductor technology and developing new neuromorphic devices that think like the human brain. These advancements aim to increase efficiency, power, and processing capabilities for future technological leaps.

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.

New mathematical analysis for easy brain activity visualization

Researchers created a simplified mathematical analysis to visualize neuron activities in daily experiences, employing state-space analysis. This technique allows for visualization of neuronal activity using general statistical software, revealing changes in brain activity over short time periods.

New study expands the scope of aza-friedel−crafts reactions

Researchers developed a general para-selective aza-Friedel-Crafts type reaction of phenols with imines, opening up new possibilities for the rapid and safe synthesis of medicines and advanced materials. The bulky PyBidine-Ni(OAc)2 catalyst facilitated highly para-selective reactions with up to 99:1 selectivity.

Precision measurement of polarization

Allison Zec has achieved the world record in precise measurement of an electron beam’s polarization, measuring it to within half a percent. Her work on the CREX Compton polarimeter was recognized with the prestigious JSA Thesis Prize, awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.

Highly active catalyst for alkaline water electrolysis using typical elements

The study introduces a highly active catalyst for alkaline water electrolysis using typical elements, including rhombohedral boron monosulfide complexed with graphene nanoplatelets. This novel material exhibits high catalytic activity for oxygen evolution reactions, paving the way for sustainable hydrogen production.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Researchers aim for rapid biomarker diagnostic test for stroke, using saliva

Researchers are working on a rapid non-invasive diagnostic test using saliva to quickly identify stroke patients who need time-critical treatment. The study aims to develop biomarkers that can accurately distinguish between different types of stroke, enabling suitable patients to receive appropriate treatment speedily.

Hardship affects the gut microbiome across generations

Research found that mothers' childhood experiences and pregnancy anxiety are reflected in their 2-year-old children's gut microbiomes, with smaller populations of microorganisms and reduced genetic diversity. These changes may influence children's socioemotional development and brain-gut microbiome connection.

Reducing food waste is a smaller environmental win

A new University of Colorado Boulder study finds that reducing food loss and waste could lead to increased access to affordable food worldwide, but at the cost of reduced environmental benefits. The study suggests that more food availability would result in lower prices, leading to changes in consumer behavior.

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.

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.

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.

Light quality enhances contrast vision

Scientists found that contrasting shades of brightness can be improved through selective stimulation of melanopsin cells, enabling better text and image distinction. This study's results suggest potential innovations in lighting devices and displays, paving the way for optimal visual environments.

AI enables scientists to monitor impact of farming on biodiversity

Scientists will use AI-powered monitoring stations to track species populations and assess the effectiveness of agri-environment schemes in improving biodiversity. The study aims to demonstrate how different farming systems and practices affect species populations, providing crucial evidence for sustainable land management policies.

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.

A non-covalent bonding experience

Researchers from the University of Iowa and Brookhaven National Laboratory create 14 organic-inorganic hybrid materials, including seven entirely new ones, to advance clean energy and safe nuclear energy. The study reveals new bonding mechanisms and insights into material separations and recycling.

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.

NIH awards $3M to Wayne State to impact Black youth with type 1 diabetes

A $3 million NIH award will support an intervention aimed at improving health outcomes in Black youth with type 1 diabetes. The project aims to optimize family interactions related to diabetes care through mobile health technology, potentially reducing disparities in health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Bioengineered yeast feed on agricultural waste

Researchers at Tufts University have developed modified yeast that can efficiently consume agricultural waste biomass sugars, including xylose, arabinose, and cellobiose. This breakthrough enables the production of biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics with a significantly reduced carbon footprint.

A vegan way to stop damage from excessive ice build-up and freezer burn

Researchers at the University of Tennessee have developed a vegan way to prevent freezer burn and ice damage by breaking down soy proteins into peptides that slow ice crystal growth. The study, published in ACS Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, shows promise for preserving frozen vegan foods.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

From nature, a solution to save coral from climate change

Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and University of Milan-Bicocca have demonstrated the efficacy of curcumin in reducing coral bleaching caused by climate change. The study shows significant efficacy in preventing coral bleaching when tested under controlled conditions.