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Science News Archive August 2023


Page 2 of 38

Scientists unpick how lung cells induce immune response to influenza

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have made significant discoveries on how lung cells respond to influenza viruses, identifying two key molecular pathways that trigger the release of cytokines and cell death. These findings hold promise for treating people affected by such viruses.

Control of behavioral decisions is similar in insects and mammals

Researchers found that insects like American cockroaches use the mushroom body to encode behavioral decision-making based on sensory information. The study challenges the prevailing view of insect cognition, suggesting a more complex brain function than previously thought.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Breakthrough: Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

Scientists have developed a new approach to study molecular behavior in confined spaces, allowing for real-time tracking of individual molecules within nanofluidic structures. This breakthrough enables the use of single-photon emitters as nanoscale probes, providing unprecedented insights into molecular properties and behaviors.

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.

Using artificial methods for growing crops could help solve global food security

A new study from the University of Surrey found that artificial methods for growing lettuce produce twice the amount of the crop as traditional field-based methods. This leads to increased yields with CEA systems producing double the yields compared to field-based agriculture, and up to 300% faster production rates in summer periods.

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.

Observation of nonlinear disclination states

Researchers have experimentally observed nonlinear photonic disclination states in waveguide arrays, which can enhance nonlinear effects and enable stable lasing. These findings may lead to new ideas for developing compact optical functional devices.

Antioxidants stimulate blood flow in tumors

Researchers found that antioxidants activate a mechanism forming new blood vessels in tumor cells, which can help them grow and spread. The study suggests that dietary supplements containing antioxidants may accelerate tumour growth and metastasis in cancer patients.

A global observatory to monitor Earth's biodiversity

A new global observatory is needed to guide conservation efforts due to unprecedented biodiversity loss. The Global Biodiversity Observing System (GBIOS) aims to combine technology and data from around the world to foster collaboration and share urgently needed data.

Infrared avalanche photodiodes from bulk to 2D materials

Researchers have developed infrared avalanche photodiodes using bulk and 2D materials, offering improved detection efficiency and flexibility in heterostructure design. The devices exhibit exceptional capabilities such as mechanical flexibility and strong light-matter coupling.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Exciting the brain could be key to boosting maths learning, says new study

Researchers used electrical noise stimulation to improve mathematical skills in participants with lower brain excitability, but found no benefits for those with high excitement levels. The study suggests that this non-invasive technique may be more effective for individuals who need extra stimulation to learn.

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.

Striking gold with molecular mystery solution for potential clean energy

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a molecular mechanism that enables efficient hydrogen spillover, which could lead to the development of new clean energy technologies. The breakthrough provides insight into how hydrogen activation and storage can be achieved without significant energy losses.

Redo transcatheter aortic valve replacement proven effective, safe

A novel study published in The Lancet finds that redo TAVR with balloon-expandable valves is both safe and effective for select patients who require a repeat procedure. The study, led by Cedars-Sinai, showed no difference in death or stroke rates between redo and first-time TAVR at 30-day and one-year marks.

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.

Hunting for supermassive black holes in the early universe

A team of researchers used the Subaru Telescope to discover 162 quasars in the early universe, including 22 that lived less than 800 million years old. The observation provides insights into the origin of supermassive black holes and their relationship with galaxies.

Sepsis – as common as cancer, as deadly as a heart attack

A recent study reveals sepsis is as prevalent as cancer, with a staggering 20% of cases resulting in death within three months. The researchers advocate for enhanced diagnostic methods and increased public awareness to address the growing epidemic.

Student engagement improves calculus class outcomes among undergraduates

A randomized trial involving 811 undergraduate students found that collaborative learning and student engagement significantly improved calculus concept understanding and grades. The study, conducted over three semesters, used an engagement model that cultivates mathematical habits of mind, resulting in a 11% increase in pass rates.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

An ‘introspective’ AI finds diversity improves performance

A new study by North Carolina State University found that artificial intelligence performs better when it chooses diversity over lack of diversity. The AI was able to increase its accuracy up to 10 times more than conventional AI in solving complicated problems.

New project to make data curation accessible

A new project by JooYoung Seo at the University of Illinois School of Information Sciences aims to make data curation more accessible for everyone, regardless of abilities. The three-year grant will connect multimodal data representation with day-to-day reproducible workflows, enriching understanding and offering multiple perspectives.

Radiologists must monitor novel Alzheimer’s treatment side effect

A new article published in RadioGraphics warns of a potential side effect of novel Alzheimer's treatments: amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). ARIA can cause swelling or bleeding in the brain and may be asymptomatic. Radiologists must monitor for ARIA to plan image monitoring per established guidelines.

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.

How does “MAD” accretion form around a black hole?

Researchers discovered magnetic field transport in accretion flow and MAD formation near a black hole, resolving long-standing mysteries. The study reveals the first direct observational evidence for a magnetically arrested disk (MAD) through multi-wavelength observations.

Food supplementation with coconut oil can cause obesity, study shows

Researchers at State University of Campinas found that coconut oil supplementation led to significant alterations in food intake, weight gain, and anxious behavior in mice. The study suggests that long-term consumption of coconut oil can contribute to the development of obesity and associated comorbidities.

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.

Do ‘forever chemicals’ increase breast cancer risk?

Researchers at UMass Amherst are investigating the connection between PFAS chemicals and breast cancer. They will examine data from postmenopausal women to determine if PFAS concentrations are associated with less breast tissue involution, which may increase breast cancer risk.

How little things can reduce hip fractures

A new Australian study found that implementing simple bone-strengthening strategies throughout the community can lead to a substantial decrease in hip fractures. The study analyzed data from over 3000 individuals aged 60+ and showed a 45% decline in hip fractures despite only a 3% increase in bone mineral density.

Analog and digital: The best of both worlds in one energy-efficient system

Researchers at EPFL developed a novel system integrating 2D semiconductors and ferroelectric materials to create faster, more efficient electronics with brain-inspired operations. The technology enables significant energy reduction and advanced functionalities, including synaptic neuron function within the same device.

Evolving chemical system changes its environment

Researchers from the University of Groningen created a synthetic system that exhibits eco-evolutionary dynamics, where replicators adapt to their environment and undergo natural selection. The system consists of two different ring sizes that compete for a common building block, with one replicator emerging as dominant in certain enviro...

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.

Single-dose psilocybin treatment for major depressive disorder

A randomized clinical trial of psilocybin treatment found a clinically significant sustained reduction in depressive symptoms and functional disability. The study's findings support the potential of psilocybin as a novel intervention for major depressive disorder when administered with psychological support.

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.

Genomic model suggests population decline in human ancestors

A genomic model by Wangjie Hu and colleagues reveals a severe population bottleneck in human ancestors between 800,000 and 900,000 years ago, with only 1280 breeding individuals surviving. The decline coincided with climate changes, droughts, and glaciations, resulting in the loss of 98.7% of the ancestral population.

Illuminating new horizons: Navigating nonlinear scattering with precision

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a new scattering matrix method that can sculpt light output with minimal optimization time. The method offers unparalleled nonlinear scattered light control, enabling high-resolution scanning microscopy and particle trapping through dense, scattering media.

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.

Growing triple-decker hybrid crystals for lasers

By controlling the arrangement of multiple layers within crystals, researchers can tune the materials' optoelectronic properties and emit light of specific energies. This technique has significant implications for applications such as LEDs, solar cells, and lasers.

Assessing the mechanisms for liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis development is driven by various factors, including metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. CD8+ T cells play a significant role in activating hepatic stellate cells, which produce scar tissue.

People who are in good shape take fewer mental-health related medication

Research based on the Trøndelag Health Study found that people in good physical shape fill fewer prescriptions for anxiety and depression medications. The study suggests that improving physical fitness can help prevent anxiety and depression, with men experiencing greater benefits from exercise than women.

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.

Nearly half of dog owners are hesitant to vaccinate their pets

A new study found that nearly half of dog owners in the US hold negative views about vaccinating their pets, citing safety and efficacy concerns. This hesitancy is linked to public mistrust in human vaccines during the pandemic, posing serious public health implications for both animals and humans.

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.

Researchers predict film scores by the activity of facial muscles

A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that the activity of zygomaticus major, heart rate variability, and EEG indicators can predict film scores. The researchers used a machine learning model to analyze physiological data from 21 participants who watched short films and rated them on a scale from 1 to 10.