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Science News Archive July 2024


Page 27 of 41

Wild plants and crops don’t make great neighbors

Research reveals native plants and non-native crops attract pests that spread diseases, causing harm to both plant populations. The studies also found viruses transmitted from crops to wild plants, which can have devastating effects on native ecosystems.

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.

Respiratory bacteria ‘turns off’ immune system to survive

Researchers have discovered how Haemophilus influenzae turns off the body's immune responses to persist in respiratory tissues. The bacterium convinces the immune system there is no threat, inducing a state of tolerance, and can worsen symptoms in vulnerable groups like cystic fibrosis patients and asthma sufferers.

NASA’s Hubble traces dark matter in dwarf galaxy using stellar motions

A team of astronomers used NASA's Hubble Space Telescope to create the most accurate three-dimensional understanding of stars' movements within the Draco dwarf galaxy. This allowed them to build a more precise model of dark matter distribution, which aligns with cosmological models and suggests a cusp-like structure.

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.

Quadrupolar nuclei measured for the first time by zero-field NMR

For the first time, researchers have measured quadrupolar nuclei using zero-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. This breakthrough enables precise analysis of molecular structures and spin interactions, with potential applications in medicine and materials science.

Muscle machine: How water controls the speed of muscle contraction

Researchers found that water flow within a muscle fiber determines its contracting speed, with fluid flows becoming crucial for fast movements. The study also revealed a new property of muscles called 'odd elasticity', which enables them to generate power from repetitive deformations.

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.

Researchers uncover brain region’s role in hearing and learning

A University of Maryland study reveals how the brain adapts to different listening situations, with the orbitofrontal cortex playing a central role. The findings may have implications for human health and well-being, particularly in conditions such as autism, dyslexia, or schizophrenia.

Gravitational waves hint at dark matter and Big Bang mysteries

Researchers propose that simple forms of ultra-light scalar field matter could generate detectable gravitational wave backgrounds soon after the Big Bang. This discovery could shed light on dark matter and its role in the universe's mass, offering a new avenue for fundamental physics research.

Unveiling 1,200 years of human occupation in Canada’s Arctic

Researchers detected Paleo-Inuit and Thule-Inuit settlements on Somerset Island using sediment samples, providing new insights into Arctic cultures. The study suggests the Thule-Inuit population arrived earlier than previously estimated, with increased presence from the 13th to 15th centuries.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Ultrasound technology can be used to boost mindfulness, study finds

Researchers used low-intensity ultrasound to target and alter the default mode network of the brain, reducing connectivity and enhancing mindfulness. The technique, called transcranial-focused ultrasound (TFUS), can induce meaningful effects with just five minutes of stimulation.

Same workout, different weight loss: Signal molecule versions are key

Researchers found that mice lacking certain signal molecules produced during exercise had reduced oxygen consumption and fat burning, leading to increased susceptibility to weight gain. In humans, those producing more of these alternative versions consumed less oxygen and had lower body fat.

Seeing inside Alzheimer’s disease brain

Researchers have determined the structure of molecules within an Alzheimer's disease brain for the first time using cryo-electron tomography and fluorescence microscopy. This study revealed the molecular structure of tau protein and its arrangement with amyloid plaques, providing new insights into the pathology of the disease.

UCF launches inaugural mentorship, scholarship initiative for students in AI

UCF's STRONG-AI initiative aims to uplift bright, low-income undergraduate students in pursuing well-rounded AI education through faculty and peer mentorship and scholarship. The program has received over 150 applications and will select 10-15 students annually based on financial aid eligibility and academic success.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fossils of ancient chromosomes discovered

Researchers have discovered fossils of ancient chromosomes in the skin of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth, allowing them to assemble the genomes of extinct species. The discovery provides insights into the history of life on Earth and enables scientists to study the evolution of genes and organisms.

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.

Black Americans develop mental resilience to discrimination early

A Duke University study found that by adulthood, Black men and women in the U.S. have developed mental resilience to everyday discrimination, including microaggressions, potentially limiting its impact on their mental health. White young adults may lack these coping strategies, making them more psychologically distressing.

Menstrual cramps can be worse in normal-length cycles without ovulation

Researchers found that menstrual cramps were more severe and lasted longer in cycles without ovulation, challenging the long-held belief that cramps only occur during ovulatory cycles. The study of 75 women aged 19-35 showed that cycle lengths were the same, but anovulatory cycles had higher Cramp Scores

Covid-19: migrants globally at higher risk

A new study published in eClinicalMedicine reveals that migrants are at an increased risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2, experiencing severe disease courses, and having higher mortality rates. Systemic barriers such as overcrowding, precarious working conditions, and limited access to healthcare contribute to poorer health outcomes.

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.

Hydrogen flight looks ready for take-off with new advances

New studies from Chalmers University of Technology suggest that hydrogen-powered aircraft could meet the needs of 97% of intra-Nordic flights and 58% of Nordic passenger volume by 2045. A novel heat exchanger technology has shown promise in reducing fuel consumption by almost eight percent.

How the 'heart and lungs' of a galaxy extend its life

Astrophysicists suggest that galaxies control growth through how they 'breathe', using supersonic jets to transmit energy and slow gas-accretion. This helps maintain the galaxy medium, keeping the supermassive black hole engine supplied with fuel.

IoT sensors tattle on stores that neglect promo displays

A new study from University of Texas at Austin researchers found that poor execution of promotional displays in retail stores can deprive brands of up to 2.3% more sales. The study used IoT technology to track display installations and found that busy managers often view displays as a nuisance, leading to missed sales opportunities.

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.

Nearly one in 10 pregnant people who get COVID will develop long COVID

A nationwide study found that nearly one in 10 pregnant people who contract COVID will develop long-term symptoms, including fatigue and gastrointestinal issues. The study provides important insights into the risk of long COVID in this population and emphasizes the need for healthcare practitioners to be vigilant for its symptoms.

Learning dance moves could help humanoid robots work better with humans

A humanoid robot has been trained to learn and perform various expressive movements, including simple dance routines and gestures. The enhanced expressiveness and agility of the robot pave the way for improving human-robot interactions in settings such as factory assembly lines, hospitals, and homes.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Air pollution harms pollinators more than pests, study finds

A new study published in Nature Communications found that air pollution disproportionately harms pollinators, including bees and butterflies, with a 39% decline in foraging efficiency. In contrast, pest insects were not significantly impacted by elevated air pollution levels.

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.

Movement sensors show promise in identifying horses at injury risk

Researchers used movement sensors to track thoroughbreds' stride patterns and identified miniscule changes associated with increased injury risk. The technology has been shown to prevent catastrophic injuries by alerting trainers and veterinarians to intervene before a major injury occurs, resulting in longer careers for affected horses.

A breakthrough on the edge: One step closer to topological quantum computing

A team of experimental physicists has achieved a breakthrough in topological quantum computing by inducing superconducting effects in edge-only materials. This discovery could lead to the development of stable and efficient quantum computers, with potential applications in fields like quantum computing and technological advancements.

Few U.S. adults use nicotine pouches, study finds

A large nationally representative study found that only 2.9% of U.S. adults had ever used nicotine pouches, with a lower percentage reporting current use. The study suggests that the majority of adult pouch consumers are using them to 'top off' nicotine in situations where they cannot smoke or use other tobacco products.

Hepatitis B: "Sleep timer" for immune cells discovered

A team of researchers has discovered a mechanism by which the liver's immune cells are suppressed in chronic hepatitis B, leading to organ damage. The 'sleep timer' function allows immune cells to weaken their activity over time, preventing them from proliferating excessively and causing further damage.

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.

Can omega-3 fatty acid intake affect acne severity?

Following a Mediterranean diet and taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements, participants experienced significant reductions in inflammatory and non-inflammatory skin lesions. Those who reached target omega-3 levels showed the most substantial improvement in acne severity.

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.

The molecule that could alleviate stroke-related brain injury

Scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children discovered a molecule called LK-2 that can protect neurons during stroke and prevent brain damage. LK-2 works by blocking glutamate's binding to acid-sensing ion channels, reducing calcium flow and cell death.