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Science News Archive February 2023


Page 15 of 36

New superalloy could cut carbon emissions from power plants

Researchers have discovered a new 3D-printed superalloy that can withstand high heat, essential for power plant turbines. The alloy, composed of 42% aluminum, 25% titanium and other metals, is stronger at high temperatures than state-of-the-art materials.

Whales give up singing to fight for love

Researchers from the University of Queensland found that humpback whales have shifted their mating behaviour, with males giving up singing and instead fighting for dominance. This change is believed to be due to the increased population size after whaling cessation, as larger groups may deter other males from approaching potential mates.

Study quantifies global impact of electricity in dust storms on Mars

Researchers find that electrical discharge in Martian dust storms could be a major driving force of the planet's chlorine cycle. The study reveals high yields of chlorine gases from common chlorides when electrified by Martian conditions, indicating a promising pathway for converting surface chlorides to atmospheric phases.

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.

Troubling discovery

Researchers found that gadolinium nanoparticles from MRI contrast agents can infiltrate kidney cells, causing severe side effects like nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. The study used electron microscopy to detect tiny deposits of gadolinium in the kidneys of people who had been injected with contrast agents prior to their MRIs.

Climate change disrupts core habitats of marine species

A modelling study by an international team of researchers found that climate change will likely disrupt core habitats of marine species, reducing suitable ranges by the end of this century. The results highlight the need for effective conservation management to protect marine biodiversity and resources.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smooth sailing for electrons in graphene

Physicists at the University of Wisconsin–Madison directly measured the fluid-like flow of electrons in graphene for the first time at nanometer resolution. This breakthrough study provides new insights into the behavior of electrons in this material, shedding light on its potential applications.

Potential for profits gives Rice lab’s plastic waste project promise

Scientists at Rice University have developed a new technique using the 'flash Joule' method to transform plastic waste into high-value carbon nanotubes and hybrid nanomaterials. This process is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional methods, making it a promising solution for recycling plastic waste.

Engineered wood grows stronger while trapping carbon dioxide

Rice University scientists have developed a method to engineer wood that traps carbon dioxide while increasing its strength. This process involves removing lignin and hemicellulose from the wood and replacing them with metal-organic framework particles, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

SUTD researchers developed novel 2D material with virus to kill cancer cells

Scientists from SUTD design a novel thermal-based therapy nano-system that destroys over 20% of pancreatic cancer cells using microsecond electrical pulses, improving cancer cell targeting accuracy and bio-compatibility. The introduction of the M13 virus enhances electro-thermal therapy performance by assembling more on cancer cells.

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.

Multiple sclerosis discovery could end disease’s chronic inflammation

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a vital contributor to hyperactive immune responses and neuroinflammation in multiple sclerosis. Blocking this regulator alleviated harmful inflammation in lab mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for new treatments.

AI could improve mental health care

A new study from Lund University suggests that allowing patients to describe their mental health in free language can provide more precise diagnoses than traditional rating scales. The AI-tool, developed by researchers, enables doctors to analyze patients' answers and provides individualized care.

Assessing the benefits of digital microfluidics for bacterial protocols

The article analyzes digital microfluidics' (DMF) benefits for bacterial protocols, highlighting its versatility and potential applications in synthetic biology and diagnostics. DMF's electrostatic forces manipulate microdroplets on a plate, enabling sample preparation and nucleic acid detection.

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.

New technology revolutionizes the analysis of old ice

Researchers at the University of Bern and Empa have developed a new technique to measure greenhouse gases in ancient ice cores, enabling more accurate climate records. The method allows for high-resolution analysis of the oldest ice, which contains 15,000 to 20,000 years of climate history compressed into one meter.

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.

Fiber discovery could shape better gut health

A team of scientists has discovered that changing the structure of psyllium fibre can promote healthy gut bacteria and reduce gas formation. The findings have significant implications for people with fiber intolerances and irritable bowel conditions.

Long COVID symptoms vary among racial and ethnic groups

A new study found that Black and Hispanic patients are more likely to experience persistent symptoms or be diagnosed with a new medical condition after COVID-19. The study analyzed data from over 60,000 patients and found significant racial and ethnic disparities in the frequency and types of post-COVID-19 symptoms.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Climate: Lessons from the latest global warming

Researchers found that the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, a 5-8°C warming event, was caused by high carbon dioxide and methane levels. The team's study provides new insights into sedimentary systems and the impact of seasonal changes on ocean turbidity.

Receptor location matters for psychedelic drug effects

Researchers at UC Davis found that engaging serotonin 2A receptors inside neurons promotes growth of new connections, while the same receptors on cell surfaces do not. This discovery guides efforts to develop new treatments for depression and PTSD.

Indicator of early form of Parkinson’s in stool sample

Researchers have discovered a method to detect α-synuclein aggregates in stool samples, indicating an early form of Parkinson's disease. This finding could lead to the development of a non-invasive diagnostic tool, enabling therapies to be initiated at an early stage.

High intensity fires do not reverse bush encroachment in an African savanna

A decade-long experiment found that high-intensity fires did not reverse bush encroachment in the long term, despite an initial decline in woody plant cover. The study suggests that fire management strategies must be tailored to each local context and that long-term monitoring is crucial for effective conservation.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

One-time tax items aren’t earnings misconduct

New research from Texas McCombs finds that most nonrecurring income taxes are driven by legitimate business causes rather than efforts to manipulate earnings. The study analyzed 68,139 quarterly earnings reports and found no predictive power for future profits or tax rates.

The secrets of polydopamine coatings revealed

Researchers at the University of Groningen have discovered the exact structure of polydopamine coatings, which could lead to new applications in surface adhesion and neurodegenerative disease treatment. The study found that these coatings form through auto-oxidation, crosslinking and isomerization processes.

CBD shows promise for reducing cigarette smoking

Researchers at Washington State University found that CBD inhibits a key enzyme for nicotine metabolism, slowing down its effects and allowing smokers to wait before feeling the urge to smoke. The study suggests that CBD could be a useful tool in reducing harm from smoking and quitting nicotine addiction.

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.

Ukraine energy crisis may push millions into extreme poverty

A new study reveals that rising energy prices triggered by the Russia-Ukraine conflict could push up to 141 million more people around the globe into extreme poverty. Households' energy costs are likely to rise by 62.6% - 112.9%, contributing to a 2.7% - 4.8% hike in household expenditure and cost-of-living pressures.

NIH software assembles complete genome sequences on-demand

Verkko software assembles gapless human genome sequences quickly and precisely, enabling better assessment of genomic diversity and comparative genomics. This innovation accelerates efforts to generate complete genome sequences of various species, improving research and discovery in the field.

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.

Study demonstrates energy-efficient conversion of nitrate pollutants into ammonia

A new study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign demonstrates an approach for integrated capture and conversion of nitrate-contaminated waters into valuable ammonia using a single electrochemical cell. The device shows significant enhancements in energy efficiency, nitrate removal, and ammonium production rate compared to ...

Using spiders as environmentally-friendly pest control

Research suggests that tropical tent web spiders can eat a devastating pest moth of commercially important crops like tomato and potato. The spiders' ability to form groups and create large webs makes them effective biological control agents.

Operation Pangolin launches to save world’s most trafficked wild mammal

The Operation Pangolin project aims to save the world's eight pangolin species by generating data to inform conservation strategies and implementing wildlife crime prevention efforts in Central Africa. The team will use novel technology and artificial intelligence methods to address the illicit wildlife trade and prevent extinction.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

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.

Resistance is futile

Researchers developed an antibiotic that cured mice infected with nearly untreatable bacteria, with virtually undetectable resistance to the drug. The unique mechanism of action targets multiple bacterial functions, disrupting the bacterial membrane and leading to broad-spectrum antibacterial activity.

Physicists solve durability issue in next-generation solar cells

Researchers at UToledo discovered a way to enhance adhesion and mechanical toughness in perovskite solar cells using DPPP, improving durability and power conversion efficiency. The breakthrough allows for the commercialization of new photovoltaic technology to replace silicon and lower cost of solar electricity.

Machine learning helps determine success of advanced genome editing

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm to predict the chances of successful prime editing gene edits, assessing thousands of DNA sequences and identifying key factors such as sequence length and DNA repair mechanisms. The tool promises to speed up efforts to bring prime editing into the clinic.

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.

*Free* Personalizing immunotherapy to treat tumors wins prize

Aleksandar Obradovic's work harnesses anti-tumor immune response with tailored cancer immunotherapy, combining drug treatments and immune-response therapeutics. He developed algorithms to predict drug sensitivity and identify groups of cells associated with treatment resistance.