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Science News Archive December 2024


Page 5 of 39

Poor vascular health accelerates brain ageing

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet used AI to analyze brain images from 70-year-olds and found that factors like inflammation and high glucose levels are associated with an older-looking brain. A healthy lifestyle, on the other hand, was linked to brains with a younger appearance.

DFG to fund eight new research units

The DFG is investing €30 million in eight new research units tackling pressing issues such as quantum materials, macrophage biology and language convergence. The new units will focus on innovative directions in their respective fields.

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.

Tiny, wireless antennas use light to monitor cellular communication

MIT researchers developed a biosensing technique that eliminates the need for wires, using tiny wireless antennas with light detection to measure electrical signals from cells. The devices can capture scattered light with an optical microscope and measure signals with micrometer spatial resolution.

AI-driven approach reveals hidden hazards of chemical mixtures in rivers

A new AI-driven approach identifies potentially harmful chemical substances in rivers by monitoring their effects on tiny water fleas, providing insights into complex mixtures and aquatic life. The study enables more comprehensive environmental monitoring and supports better-informed regulations for chemical discharge into waterways.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Geothermal aquifers offer green potential but quality checks required

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University identified clogging in a geothermal well due to accidental venting, highlighting the need for regular inspection and monitoring of water quality. The study emphasizes the importance of geochemical analysis of groundwater for stable and widespread use of aquifer thermal energy storage systems.

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.

Modern AI systems have achieved Turing's vision, but not exactly how he hoped

Current energy-hungry transformer-based systems contrast with Turing's idea of machines that develop intelligence naturally, like human children. AI systems can now perform tasks exclusive to human intellect, such as generating coherent text and discussing abstract ideas, but with limitations on sustainability and societal impact

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Uncovering key molecular factors behind malaria’s deadliest strain

A UC Riverside-led team, funded by the NIH, aims to uncover molecular factors governing gene regulation and chromatin organization in P. falciparum. The project focuses on long non-coding RNAs, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and influencing disease progression.

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.

Study reveals right whales live 130 years — or more

A new study published in Science Advances reveals that right whales can survive for over 130 years, with some individuals possibly reaching 150 years. This discovery highlights the impact of human activities on whale lifespans, particularly entanglement in fishing gear and ship strikes.

Can the heart heal itself? New study says it can

A research team led by a physician-scientist found that artificial heart patients can regenerate heart muscle cells, which may lead to new ways to treat and potentially cure heart failure. The study showed that these patients' hearts regenerate muscle cells at more than six times the rate of healthy hearts.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Researchers reveal how human eyelashes promote water drainage

Researchers reveal that human eyelashes have a unique structure that enables rapid and directional water expulsion to maintain visual clarity. The hydrophobic, curved, flexible fiber array features surface micro-ratchets and macro-curvature approximating the Brachistochrone curve.

Inequality weakens local governance and public satisfaction, study finds

A recent study found that socioeconomic inequalities trap local governments in a cycle of limited resources, rising inequality, and declining capacity to meet citizens' needs. Strategic, targeted interventions are necessary to break the cycle of inequality and enhance public satisfaction with local governance.

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.

Let’s take the uptake

Scientists at the Institute of Physical Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences created a method to measure molecular brightness and eliminate background light. This technique allows for counting individual photons emitted by molecules, enabling precise measurement of molecule concentrations. The researchers applied this approach to study...

Early detection model for pancreatic necrosis improves patient outcomes

Researchers developed a prediction model for infected pancreatic necrosis (IPN) in acute pancreatitis patients, identifying high-risk individuals within 24 hours of hospital admission. The model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.85, outperforming widely used scoring systems.

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.

Annual report details more economic struggles for Tennessee’s ag sectors

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture's annual report highlights the challenges faced by Tennessee's farmers and foresters in 2024, including drought, agricultural land loss, and decreasing foreign market demand. The outlook for 2025 is clouded due to trade policy uncertainty, low crop prices, and high input costs.

The surprising role of gut infection in Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found a link between chronic gut infection with cytomegalovirus and the development of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that the virus may contribute to immune system changes and brain inflammation. The study suggests that existing antiviral drugs could potentially treat or prevent this form of Alzheimer's.

Innovative glue maker chosen for Japanese startup program

D-Glue, an eco-friendly adhesive designed to break apart at lower temperatures, will partner with Plug and Play Japan's Deeptech Program. The debondable glue aims to reduce landfill waste and energy consumption, with the potential to expand production on a mass scale.

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.

Getting rehab earlier improves concussion outcomes, OHSU study suggests

A new study from Oregon Health & Science University found that people who receive physical therapy earlier after a concussion tend to have better balance control and reduced reaction times. This can lead to improved outcomes and reduced risk of re-injury. Early intervention may enable the brain to return to a more normal state, compens...

An inexpensive fix for California’s struggling wildflowers

A recent UC Riverside study found that raking dead grass can boost California's native wildflower diversity, reducing fire danger and increasing plant community changes. The simple, low-cost method of removing invasive grass layers allows native seeds to germinate and grow.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Changes in store for atmospheric rivers

A new study found that climate warming will increase evaporation of ocean waters and alter atmospheric rivers in Southern California, while warmer temperatures in the ocean and atmosphere will affect those in the Pacific Northwest. This could lead to increased flooding risks and more powerful storms.

Biden-⁠Harris administration honors extraordinary American scientists

The Biden-Harris administration has awarded the Enrico Fermi Presidential Award to three US Department of Energy scientists for their groundbreaking contributions to nanoscience, electroanalytical chemistry, and fusion. Their work is expected to have a lasting impact on energy transformation and creation.

How to deal with narcissists at home and at work

Narcissists can be charming early on, but subtle signs indicate a need to get out of the relationship. Brunell discusses how researchers have learned to understand and cope with narcissists in various settings, including workplaces. Strategies for setting clear boundaries and managing situations are also shared.

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.

Democrat investment effect spooks corporate raiders

Research from University of Texas at Austin finds that having Democratic lawmakers as shareholders can deter activist investors who target companies for cost cuts and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) programs. The study found no effect from Republican politicians as shareholders.

A user manual for yeast’s genetic switches

Kobe University researchers discovered three gene regulation design principles to improve yeast promoter performance, reducing leakiness and increasing productivity. The study's findings have potential applications in hospitals and can be used to produce multiple biologics with a single yeast strain.

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.

Early warning tool will help control huge locust swarms

A team from the University of Cambridge has developed a model to predict desert locust swarms, enabling national agencies to respond quickly. The model uses weather forecast data and computational models to forecast locust swarm movements both short and long-term.

Digital labels can help grocers waste less food

Grocers can reduce food waste by using digital labels that allow for speedy price changes. This technology benefits both consumers and stores, as prices are adjusted to move older stock off shelves. By implementing dynamic pricing, grocers can save time and money while reducing emissions from food waste.

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.