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Science News Archive August 2023


Page 21 of 38

Oceans release microplastics into the atmosphere

A team of researchers has determined that microplastic particles are present in the marine atmosphere, even in remote parts of the world. The study found that different types of plastics, including polyester and polyethylene terephthalate, were detected in air samples collected from various sites along the Norwegian coast.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pluggable multitask diffractive neural networks based on cascaded metasurfaces

Researchers propose a new approach to reconfigurable diffractive neural networks using metasurfaces, enabling flexible AI computing for various tasks. The proposed pluggable diffractive neural networks demonstrate high classification accuracy and efficiency, with potential applications in real-time object detection and intelligent opti...

CCNY scientists trap light inside a magnet

Researchers at City College of New York have successfully trapped light inside magnetic materials, leading to orders of magnitude stronger optical responses. This breakthrough could enable the development of magnetic lasers and magneto-optical memory devices.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Assessing controls on ocean productivity – from space

Scientists have developed a new method to study phytoplankton nutrient limitations using satellite remote sensing technologies, providing insights into the global ocean's carbon cycle. The research found that phytoplankton were limited by either iron or nitrogen, leading to distinct fluorescence signals detected by satellites.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Electrochemical flow aziridination of terpenes

Scientists have created a novel electrochemical flow aziridination method to produce nitrogen-containing compounds from unactivated alkenes, which can lead to the discovery of new drug candidates. The approach overcomes limitations of traditional methods by using radical/radical cation cross-coupling.

Study uncovers impact of 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic on infant health

A historical analysis of Bern Maternity Hospital data showed a notable surge in low birth weight and stillbirth rates coinciding with the 1918 'Spanish flu' pandemic. Researchers found that mothers exposed to the pandemic had a higher risk of stillbirth, highlighting the potential impact of pandemics on infant health.

Oxygen charge for battling multidrug-resistant pathogens

Researchers have developed a molecular 'singlet oxygen battery' that can target and kill methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria in deep tissue layers. The technology, which does not require external light or oxygen, is highly effective in treating pulmonary infections caused by MRSA.

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.

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.

Patterns in cancer incidence among people younger than age 50

Early-onset cancer incidence rates among people under 50 increased significantly between 2010 and 2019, with breast cancer leading the number of cases. Gastrointestinal cancers showed the highest growth rate in this age group, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance strategies and funding priorities

Visualizing the microscopic phases of magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene

A Princeton University-led team has captured the precise microscopic behavior of interacting electrons that give rise to insulating quantum phase in magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene. The study uses scanning tunneling microscopy and achieves pristine samples, allowing for high-resolution images of materials.

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.

Hummingbird beak points the way to future micro machine design

A Cornell research team has developed a new way to design complex microscale machines, one that draws inspiration from the operation of proteins and hummingbird beaks. The lead author is Itay Griniasty, who led the development of an algorithm to simplify the search for magnetic patterns that spur the desired bifurcation.

Neuropsychiatric behavioral symptoms are associated with the ending of marriages

A new study finds that severe behavioral symptoms in older adults are associated with a higher likelihood of divorce, while those with more advanced dementia are less likely to end their marriages. The research analyzed data from 263 married couples and found a positive correlation between neuropsychiatric symptoms and divorce risk.

Accelerating discovery in artificial intelligence for science

The researcher aims to bridge completeness, efficiency, and applications in 3D graphs to solve problems in physics, fluid dynamics, and biotechnology. Geometric graphs can represent molecules, proteins, and drugs, enabling the prediction of their behavior and properties.

What role do dust storms play in the world’s climate?

Scientists have found that dust storms in Alaska can cause ice formation in clouds, which could add to or help cool the planet. The particles from these storms contain more biological material than those from desert environments, making them effective at forming ice crystals.

How cold temperatures trigger the brain to boost appetite

Neuroscientists at Scripps Research have identified a specific cluster of neurons that work as a 'switch' for cold-related food-seeking behavior in mice. The discovery could lead to potential therapeutics for metabolic health and weight loss by targeting this brain circuitry.

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.

Society's involvement is key in advancing the green energy transition

A recent review paper highlights the need for an interdisciplinary approach to designing and implementing renewable energy systems. Local communities' values and concerns must be considered to ensure public backing for the essential energy transition. The study emphasizes the risks of ignoring socio-technical grand challenges in wind e...

London classrooms need more support to improve air quality

A study by the University of Surrey found that dual ventilation systems can cut harmful air pollution in half compared to normal ventilation. The research measured particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and thermal comfort across 30 London classrooms, revealing significant increases in pollutants during occupancy.

Using supernovae to study neutrinos’ strange properties

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new framework for studying neutrino self-interactions using supernovae. They found that in the burst case, unprecedented sensitivity to neutrino self-interactions is possible even with sparse data from SN 1987A and conservative analysis assumptions.

Carbon-based quantum technology

Researchers successfully contacted individual long and atomically precise graphene nanoribbons, enabling the study of fundamental quantum effects and potential applications in quantum switching, sensing, and energy conversion. The breakthrough was achieved through a collaborative effort involving multiple international research groups.

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.

Gold buckyballs, oft-used nanoparticle ‘seeds’ are one and the same

Rice University chemists have discovered that gold nanoparticles are synthesized from gold buckyballs, a finding that could revolutionize nanoparticle synthesis. This discovery was made by Matthew Jones and Liang Qiao, who found that the commonly used golden 'seed' particles were actually cousins of the original buckyballs.

Hastings Center Report, July-August 2023 Issue

Experts discuss the moral implications of telemedicine on the patient-physician relationship. Telemedicine can improve care for certain patients but may also raise questions about the nature of this encounter and the importance of touch in medical interactions. The Hastings Center Report explores the complex ethical issues surrounding ...

Genetically engineered vesicles target cancer cells more effectively

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed genetically engineered nanovesicles that can target cancer cells more effectively than traditional chemotherapy. These nanocarriers can deliver therapeutic agents directly to the interior of cancer cells, reducing harm to healthy cells and increasing treatment efficacy.

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.

Brain recordings capture musicality of speech — with help from Pink Floyd

Neuroscientists at UC Berkeley have successfully reconstructed a recognizable song from brain recordings, capturing the electrical activity of brain regions tuned to music attributes. This breakthrough could enable future brain implants with prosodic content, improving communication for patients with speech disorders.

Acute stroke patients are waiting hours for care

A new study from the University of Chicago Medicine reveals that nearly 75% of acute stroke patients wait over two hours to be transferred to a comprehensive stroke center. The median time between initial arrival and departure was 174 minutes, with three in four patients waiting longer than the recommended maximum of 120 minutes.

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.

New early Alzheimer’s treatment shows Improvement in cognition

Dr. Heather Sandison's study reveals significant improvements in cognitive function among individuals with cognitive decline after six months of a multimodal, individualized care plan. The study demonstrates the feasibility and impact of a holistic approach targeting various factors contributing to Alzheimer's disease progression.

Discarded aloe peels could be a sustainable, natural insecticide (video)

Scientists have identified several bioactive compounds in aloe vera peels that deter insects from feasting on crops. These compounds could lead to the development of an environmentally friendly alternative for disposing of agricultural waste and creating additional revenue streams for aloe vera producers.

Scientists pinpoint the microbes essential to making traditional mozzarella

The study sheds light on the intricate interactions of microorganisms throughout the manufacturing process, influencing the microbiota's composition and organoleptic properties. The natural whey starter plays a significant role in shaping the microbial makeup of mozzarella, with subtle variations between traditional and modern dairies.

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.

Bats feast as insects migrate through Pyrenees

Researchers discovered seven bat species and 66 insect species in the Pyrenees, highlighting the importance of migratory insects as a food source for both bats and those living in the mountains. The study also shows that migrating insects are a crucial refuelling station for bats during their own journeys south.

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.

Faraday Institution to lead UK Government’s Ayrton Challenge on Energy Storage

The Faraday Institution will lead a £5 million R&D programme to develop improved and lower-cost battery energy storage systems for static off-grid, weak-grid, and e-mobility solutions. This will support expanding access to clean and reliable energy in developing countries, reducing emissions and meeting global climate change targets.

Classic rock music can be recreated from recorded brain activity

Scientists successfully reconstructed recognizable versions of Pink Floyd's 'Another Brick in the Wall, Part 1' using nonlinear modeling to decode brain activity. The study identified a unique region in the Superior Temporal Gyrus (STG) responsible for rhythm perception, with electrodes from this region crucial for accurate reconstruct...

DNA evidence on dogs can help track down offenders

A new Australian study found that human DNA can be retrieved from all areas of dog samples, with higher amounts found on the head and back. The research suggests using DNA evidence from dogs in police investigations involving animals, expanding knowledge about human DNA transfer to pets.

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.

AI models are powerful, but are they biologically plausible?

Researchers propose a hypothesis that astrocytes, non-neuronal cells in the brain, can perform core computation as transformers, providing insights into human brain function and machine learning success. This discovery could spark future neuroscience research and help explain transformer performance across complex tasks.