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Science News Archive August 2024


Page 19 of 38

Researchers make breakthrough in fight against COVID-19

Researchers at Rice University and Northeastern University have made a discovery in the fight against COVID-19, uncovering new insights into how the virus infects human cells and can be neutralized. They found that antibodies targeting a specific part of the spike protein can bind to it and prevent the virus from entering human cells.

Same person. Different place. Twice the odds of a dementia diagnosis.

A new national study reveals significant regional variations in the likelihood of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. Despite controlling for demographic and population-level risk factors, the study found that differences in diagnostic intensity persist across regions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rethinking the dodo

Researchers from the University of Southampton have reviewed 400 years of scientific literature to correctly classify the Dodo and its closest relative. The study confirms that both birds were members of the columbid family and challenges common misconceptions about their extinction.

Rare diseases point to connections between metabolism and immunity

A new study reveals a connection between metabolic genes and immune system T cells, suggesting a potential new class of inborn errors of immunometabolism. Researchers identified genetic overlap between disorders of metabolism and immunity, pointing to a continuum between the two conditions.

The bee’s knees: New tests created to find fake honey

Researchers at Cranfield University have developed two new methods to authenticate UK honey: one using Spatial Offset Raman Spectroscopy (SORS) and the other employing DNA barcoding. The SORS method detects sugar syrups with high accuracy, while DNA barcoding identifies syrups even at low adulteration levels.

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.

Cell death types and their relations to host immune pathways

Researchers have proposed a framework encompassing all discovered host immunological pathways, including TH1, TH2a, TH2b, TH3, TH9, TH17, TH22, TH1-like, and THαβ immune reactions. These relationships can help understand host defense mechanisms against invading pathogens and provide insights for developing better therapeutic strategies.

Decoding mysterious seismic signals

Scientists have found that PKP precursors originate from ultra-low velocity zones in the Earth's mantle, which are likely generated by melting mid-ocean ridge basalts. These zones are not limited to hotspots, but rather spread across the core-mantle boundary beneath North America.

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.

Unveiling the power of hot carriers in plasmonic nanostructures

Hot carriers are electrons with a surplus of energy generated by light in plasmonic nanostructures, enabling novel applications and driving chemical reactions at the surface. Harnessing their power could lead to ultrafast electronics, efficient solar cells, and precise nanomedicine applications.

Green light for accurate vegetation research: new evaluation of global SIF datasets

A recent study evaluates eight widely-used solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) products to identify the most accurate tools for tracking global vegetation productivity and phenology. The research finds that Global OCO-2 SIF (GOSIF) and Contiguous Solar-Induced Fluorescence (CSIF) datasets excel in capturing spatiotemporal vari...

Numerous manufacturers use insecure android kernels

A comprehensive analysis by researchers at TU Graz found that numerous Android manufacturers use insecure kernels, leaving devices susceptible to one-day exploits. The study revealed that only between 29-55% of tested smartphones prevented attacks, with manufacturer kernels performing up to 4.6 times worse than the Generic Kernel Image.

Green warriors: plants on the frontline against microplastics

A recent study published in Eco-Environment & Health explores the potential of phytoremediation to alleviate micro/nanoplastic pollution. The research identifies possible mechanisms and technological pathways for phytoremediation to combat plastic pollution, potentially delivering a sustainable solution.

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.

Where should hydrogen be produced in the future?

The study predicts that regions like Canada, the central US, Australia, and parts of Africa are ideal for future hydrogen production. These areas have sufficient wind resources, open spaces, and low solar radiation levels to support electrolysis-based 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 discover smarter way to recycle polyurethane

A research team from Aarhus University has found a method to recycle polyurethane foam into its original components, polyol and isocyanate. The new process recovers up to 82 weight percent of the material, making it possible to reuse them as raw materials in new PUR products.

Researchers investigate parent perceptions of virtual learning

The study found that parents experienced significant stress due to the transition to virtual learning, with many reporting difficulties in monitoring their children's work and managing their own schedules. However, some parents reported positive experiences with virtual learning, particularly for students with special needs, highlighti...

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Liquid-liquid phase separation in diseases

Researchers explore the phenomenon of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in relation to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. LLPS is characterized by the spontaneous formation of segregated liquid-phase regions within cells, which can lead to the formation of aggregates and dysregulation of signaling pathways.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Knocking out one key gene leads to autistic traits

A recent study discovered that knocking out a key gene, ASTN2, in mice results in changes to cerebellar structure and behavior. The knockout mice exhibited reduced socialization and communication, increased hyperactivity and repetitive behavior, similar to hallmark traits of autism spectrum disorder.

New AI tool captures how proteins behave in context

The new AI tool PINNACLE overcomes limitations of current models by analyzing protein behavior in context. It can predict narrowly tailored drug targets for malfunctioning proteins, enabling better understanding of vital cellular processes and disease mechanisms.

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.

It’s a rave – underground acoustics amplify soil health

Researchers have discovered that healthy soils produce unique sound profiles reflecting the diversity of tiny living organisms. This technology holds promise in addressing global needs for effective soil biodiversity monitoring methods to protect ecosystems.

Exploring options for the sustainable management of phosphorus

A new IIASA study assesses the feasibility of recovering phosphorus from Swedish municipal wastewater as a sustainable source, providing alternative fertilizers. The researchers found that economic viability varies between individual plants and hub strategies, with collaborative approaches offering cost savings.

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.

Equity weighting increases the social cost of carbon, warrants careful dialogue

The new equity weighting approach recommended by the OMB leads to a dramatic increase in SCC estimates, emphasizing the importance of considering vulnerable populations. This shift towards ethical implications of climate policies has significant implications for cost-benefit analyses and requires careful scientific and policy dialogue.

Probiotics during pregnancy shown to help moms and babies

A new study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that probiotics can improve the immune system and behavior of both mothers and their offspring during pregnancy. Probiotics may also help counteract negative effects of prenatal stress, such as changes in brain inflammation and amino acid metabolism.

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.

Sleep resets neurons for new memories the next day

A Cornell University study finds that sleep resets vital brain function by silencing certain parts of the hippocampus, allowing neurons to reset and enable new learning. This mechanism could lead to breakthroughs in boosting memory and erasing negative memories in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and PTSD.

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.

YALE NEWS: Brain wiring is guided by activity even in very early development

Researchers at Yale University have discovered that brain cells begin to coalesce into wired networks during early development before experience has a chance to shape the brain. Cells that fire together wire together, and synchronization of their activity leads to strengthened associations, according to the new study published in Science.

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.

From shrimp to steel: Introducing nature-inspired metalworking

Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed a novel approach to metalworking using chitinous colloids and composites. By leveraging the affinity between chitin and metals, they created functional metallic structures without high temperatures or pressures.

Work-related stress a clear risk factor for sick leave

A University of Gothenburg study found that work-related stress, particularly job conflicts and lack of influence, significantly increase the risk of future sick leave. Women who experienced these stressors were more than twice as likely to take sick leave, with adjusted factors indicating a significant impact on their wellbeing.

Scientists map DNA of Lyme disease bacteria

Researchers sequenced the complete genomes of Lyme disease bacteria representing all 23 known species, tracing the origins back millions of years. The study provides valuable tools and insights for combating the rising public health threat of Lyme disease.

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.

Females’ and males’ muscles differ in sugar and fatty acid handling

A new study found that females' and males' muscles handle glucose and fatty acids differently, but regular physical activity cancels out these differences and triggers similar beneficial metabolic changes in both sexes. This research has important implications for preventing type 2 diabetes.