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Science News Archive April 2024


Page 22 of 41

Twisted pollen tubes induce infertility

Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered a previously unrecognised mechanism for reduced fertility in polyploids, where twisted pollen tubes fail to reach the egg cells. The study found two genes controlling pollen tube growth, which are highly conserved and could be applied to plant breeding.

In-situ alloying of NiTiNb shape memory alloys by additive manufacturing

Scientists at Shandong University have created a novel approach to fabricate high-performance NiTiNb shape memory alloys using laser powder bed fusion. The in-situ alloying process yields good mechanical and functional properties, surpassing conventional casting methods. By integrating material synthesis and structure forming, research...

A single atom layer of gold – LiU researchers create goldene

Scientists at Linköping University have created sheets of gold only a single atom layer thick, termed goldene. This material has given gold new properties that can make it suitable for applications such as carbon dioxide conversion, hydrogen production, and selective production of value-added chemicals.

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.

How AI improves physician and nurse collaboration

A new AI-based model at Stanford Hospital predicts patient decline and flags physicians and nurses, enhancing communication and intervention. The study saw a significant improvement in clinical outcomes, with a 10.4% decrease in deterioration events among high-risk patients.

Small extracellular vesicles from young blood, one of the most potent rejuvenating factors, extend lifespan by 22.7% and restore whole-body physiological functions

Small extracellular vesicles from young blood have been shown to dramatically extend lifespan, rejuvenate whole-body physiology, and reverse age-related degenerative changes in mice. The study demonstrates that these vesicles stimulate the expression of PGC-1  through their miRNA cargoes, ultimately improving mitochondrial functions.

MSU research suggests darker side of being politically confident

A new study from Michigan State University suggests that political confidence can be a barrier to tolerating differing opinions, leading to discrimination and hostility. Those with high internal political efficacy are more likely to sever social ties and refuse conversations over political differences.

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.

Yellowstone Lake ice cover unchanged despite warming climate

Despite rising temperatures in the region, Yellowstone Lake's ice cover has not changed over the past century, according to new research. Increased snowfall has acted as a buffer against warmer weather, delaying ice break-up and protecting the lake's unique ice phenology.

Crucial connection for ‘quantum internet’ made for the first time

For the first time, scientists have created a system that interfaces two key components of quantum networks: quantum information creation and storage. The team used regular optical fibres to transmit quantum data, enabling long-distance communication and paving the way for distributed computing and secure communication.

Working arrangements for locum doctors pose significant patient safety challenges

Qualitative research finds that locum doctors face significant patient safety challenges due to unfamiliar work environments, lack of support, and inadequate governance arrangements. The study calls on NHS leaders to rethink their approaches to engaging and supporting locums, and for locums themselves to reflect on their experiences.

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.

An enzyme makes mushrooms “magical”

Researchers discovered a crucial amino acid exchange that enables PsiM to carry out double methylation during evolution. The enzyme plays a key role in psilocybin production, with implications for biotechnological production of the active ingredient.

Creating an island paradise in a fusion reactor

Scientists at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory successfully simulate a novel combination method for managing fusion plasma. By combining electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) and resonant magnetic perturbations (RMP), researchers can create a more stable plasma edge, reducing the amount of current required to generate RMPs.

Novel therapeutic bispecific antibodies for B-cell lymphoma

Researchers developed novel therapeutic bispecific antibodies targeting IgM and B-cell surface antigens, which directly inhibited cell proliferation via cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in vitro. These findings suggest that anti-IgM/B-cell surface antigen-binding specific antibodies are promising therapeutic agents for B-cell malignancies.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New Inflammatory Bowel Disease testing protocol could speed up diagnosis

A new testing protocol combining clinical history with multiple home stool tests could significantly speed up diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by reducing the need for unnecessary colonoscopies. Serial faecal calprotectin tests were found to strongly predict possible IBD, Crohn's Disease, and Ulcerative Colitis.

Common HIV treatments may aid Alzheimer’s disease patients

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys have identified promising links between common HIV drugs and a reduced incidence of Alzheimer's disease. The study analyzed over 225,000 medical records and found that RT inhibitor exposure was associated with a statistically significant reduced incidence and prevalence of AD.

Study reveals how humanity could unite to address global challenges

A new study published in Royal Society Open Science found that shared ancestry and transformative experiences can strengthen psychological bonding with humanity at large, motivating prosocial action on a global scale. The research suggests that fostering a shared global identity could facilitate cooperation on the global level.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New insights could unlock immunotherapy for rare, deadly eye cancer

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered how to overcome resistance to conventional immunotherapies in metastatic uveal melanoma. They developed a clinical tool called Uveal Melanoma Immunogenic Score (UMIS) to predict patient response and improve treatment outcomes.

Resettlement processes and cultural transformation in an ancient megacity

A three-year research project at the University of Oldenburg examines the resettlement history of Hazor, a Bronze Age megacity in eastern Mediterranean, and its impact on early Israelite identities. The team aims to uncover how narratives about these events influenced the shaping of early Israelite cultures.

Novel method developed for phosphorescent multi-color carbon dots

Researchers develop novel method to prepare carbonized polymer nanodots emitting multi-color ultra-long Room-temperature phosphorescence from blue to green. The resulting materials exhibit high quantum yield and resistance to photobleaching, holding great promise for security and data protection applications.

Evidence of a pan-tissue decline in stemness during human aging

Researchers found that ~60% of tissues exhibit a significant negative correlation between age and stemness score, indicating a pan-tissue decline in stemness. This study adds weight to the idea that stem cell deterioration contributes to human aging, with hematopoietic stem cells from older individuals showing higher stemness scores.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

Specific nasal cells protect against COVID-19 in children

A new study found that nasal cells from children respond quickly to SARS-CoV-2 by increasing interferon, restricting viral replication. In contrast, nasal cells from elderly individuals produce more infectious virus particles and experience increased cell shedding and damage.

New study shows corporate misconduct at home hurts sales overseas

A new study in the Global Strategy Journal shows that corporate misconduct, such as corruption and discrimination, can negatively impact foreign subsidiary performance. The research monitored 335 subsidiaries in 109 countries over nine years, finding that social irresponsibility hurts sales regardless of where the incident occurred.

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.

Human muscle map reveals how we try to fight effects of ageing

A comprehensive atlas of ageing human muscle reveals genetic and cellular processes behind muscle deterioration, including new cell populations that may explain age-related differences. The study also identifies compensatory mechanisms to counteract ageing, offering avenues for future therapies.

Improved AI confidence measure for autonomous vehicles

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University developed a new AI confidence measure that distinguishes between high- and low-confidence decision making in deep learning architectures. This breakthrough enables the creation of safer and more reliable autonomous vehicles by prioritizing human intervention when confidence levels are lower.

How blue-green algae manipulate microorganisms

Cyanobacteria have been found to manipulate microorganisms to promote their own photosynthesis by regulating nitrogen and carbohydrate metabolism. This newly discovered gene, NirP1, plays a key role in this process, allowing cyanobacteria to export nitrite that stimulates the growth of beneficial microorganisms.

AI to improve cataract surgery in the Global South

Researchers develop AI-assisted algorithm to analyze surgical videos of cataract surgeries in Global South, aiming to improve surgical outcomes and training. The algorithm can work with conventional image material and smartphone videos, addressing the need for resource-saving solutions in these countries.

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.

Internet can achieve quantum speed with light saved as sound

Scientists create a small drum that stores data sent with light in its sonic vibrations, allowing for secure transmission over long distances. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize quantum computing and enable an internet with quantum speed and security.

Study uses thermodynamics to describe expansion of the Universe

Researchers used thermodynamics to describe the expansion of the Universe, finding that adiabatic and anisotropic effects are accompanied by cooling due to the barocaloric effect. The study proposes a novel way to investigate anisotropic effects associated with the expansion of the Universe.

Severe morning sickness: how to diagnose and treat

Hyperemesis gravidarum can significantly impact maternal health and infant well-being, leading to weight loss and dehydration. Treatment involves relieving symptoms with antiemetics and other medications, while remedies like ginger products may provide some relief.

Q&A: How claims of anti-Christian bias can serve as racial dog whistles

A University of Washington study found that anti-Christian bias claims can be used to signal allyship with white Christian Americans, perpetuating implicit racialization. White Christians perceive politicians concerned about anti-Christian bias as more willing to fight for white people and less offensive than those concerned about anti...

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.

New colorful plastic films for versatile sensors and electronic displays

Scientists from Osaka University create borane molecules that exhibit red-shifted light emission upon binding to fluoride, enabling versatile materials for electronic display and chemical sensing applications. The researchers also achieve fine-tuning of the color of light emission by adjusting the quantity of added fluoride.

Unlocking the ‘chain of worms’

A team of scientists has created a single-cell atlas for the highly regenerative worm Pristina leidyi, revealing new insights into its regenerative abilities. The study characterizes all major annelid cell types and provides molecular signatures that could inform stem cell technologies and regenerative medicine.

New mechanism uncovered in early stages of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers identified a novel mechanism where APP-CTFs disrupt organellar communication, interfering with cellular homeostasis and leading to endolysosomal dysfunction. This finding suggests that preventing APP-CTF accumulation could be crucial for developing new AD treatments.

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.

Epilepsy drug prevents brain tumors in mice with NF1

A study by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine has found that a drug used to treat epilepsy can prevent brain tumor formation and growth in mice with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). The drug, lamotrigine, was shown to be effective at lower doses than those used for epilepsy, and its effects were lasting. The finding...

Energy-friendly ammonia production for fertilizers and alternative fuel

Researchers have discovered a greener way to produce ammonia, essential for fertilizers, by developing a new catalyst that works stably at relatively low temperatures. This breakthrough reduces the amount of energy needed to synthesize ammonia, making it an attractive alternative to fossil fuels.

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.

Stretchable quantum dot display

Researchers from the Institute for Basic Science created QLEDs using a ternary nanocomposite film that enhances carrier delivery to quantum dots, resulting in optimal device performance. The devices exhibit high brightness and low threshold voltage, with no damage when stretched up to 1.5 times.

Contraception usage and workforce trends through 2022

Contraceptive services experienced downward trends from an initial increase in the month after Dobbs v. Jackson, indicating growing challenges for access. The study found decreasing workforce numbers providing contraception methods.

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.

Unlocking the secrets of forest heights: the role of GEDI LiDAR technology

A new study uses GEDI LiDAR to accurately map tree height composition in forests, revealing nuanced details of forest structures and their implications for biodiversity and carbon sequestration. This breakthrough technology offers a fresh perspective on forest ecosystems, enhancing ecological research and forest management.

Hidden threat: Global underground infrastructure vulnerable to sea-level rise

A recent study by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers highlights the hidden threat of global underground infrastructure vulnerability to sea-level rise. Shallow and saltier groundwater exacerbates corrosion and failure of critical systems such as sewer lines, roadways, and building foundations in cities worldwide.