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Science News Archive September 2017


Page 1 of 39

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Extra sulphur improves electronic structure of quantum dots

Researchers from University of Groningen have discovered a way to increase charge conductivity in lead-sulphur quantum dots by adding extra sulphur. This breakthrough enables the tuning of electric properties, improving efficiency of quantum dot solar cells above current records.

Physical abuse and punishment impact children's academic performance

Research suggests that physical abuse and punishment negatively impact children's academic performance, with harsh corporal punishment increasing peer isolation. Parent education on alternative forms of punishment may be a solution to prevent physical abuse and promote children's cognitive development.

Ultracold atoms point toward an intriguing magnetic behavior

Researchers at Princeton University discovered a unique magnetic behavior in ultracold atoms, which is consistent with the Fermi-Hubbard model. The team found that applying a strong magnetic field caused the atoms to line up in an alternating pattern and lean away from each other.

New med-tech zinc sensor developed

A new zinc sensor has been developed by researchers at the University of Adelaide, enabling real-time detection and measurement of zinc levels in cells. The sensor's innovative design allows for continuous or repeated measurements within a single biological sample, opening up new possibilities for diagnostic tools.

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.

Who's judging you based on brand choices?

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that individuals with a flexible mindset are less inclined to make assumptions about someone's character based on brand choice. In contrast, those with a fixed mindset tend to believe that behavior is consistent over time and across situations.

A new approach to cancer drug discovery

Researchers used a proteomics platform to identify proteins with reactive cysteines in non-small-cell lung cancer cells, which could be targeted by drugs. The study found that targeting the protein NR0B1 reduced abnormal growth in NRF2-activated lung cancers.

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.

NASA sees a weaker Hurricane Lee headed to the UK

Hurricane Lee is weakening due to wind shear, with forecasters predicting gusty winds in Ireland and the UK over Sept. 30-Oct. 1. NASA satellite imagery shows the storm's disorganization, with wind shear pushing clouds to the south and southeast of the eye.

UMN Medical School's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research receives NIH U01 grant

The University of Minnesota Medical School's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research has been awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to develop new, efficient, and safe stimulation paradigms for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). The project aims to improve treatment quality for patients with disabling neurological symptoms by increasing the preci...

New study changes our view on flying insects

Researchers at Lund University have discovered an optimal speed for certain insects when they fly, consuming the least amount of energy. Flying slowly or fast requires the most effort, with a moderate speed of 2-3 meters per second being the most energy-efficient.

Magnetic electrodes increase solar cell efficiency

Researchers at CIC nanoGUNE developed a photovoltaic device using magnetic materials as electrodes, increasing efficiency by 14%. The device produces alternating current directly, eliminating the need for transformers. Further improvements are being pursued to build more efficient solar modules.

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.

Bioreactors on a chip renew promises for algal biofuels

Scientists have created Algal droplet bioreactors on a chip that can screen millions of cells for improved growth rates and lipid content. The technology holds promise for accelerating the discovery of super algal strains that can efficiently produce biofuels, potentially making commercial-scale production a reality.

Climate's effects on flowers critical for bumble bees

A study by North Carolina State University researchers found that climate change impacts bumble bees through changes in flowering seasons, not just direct effects. Longer flowering seasons may actually lead to fewer flowers available for bees, resulting in reduced bee abundance and population decline.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

NASA satellite highlights burn scars in British Columbia

British Columbia has been severely impacted by forest fires, with large portions of the landscape decimated by fire. The NASA's Aqua satellite provides a clear visual representation of the extent of the damage through its natural color and false color images.

New proton 'starter' for optogenetics

Researchers have discovered a new protein, NsXeR, that can activate individual neurons and control muscle contractions with high precision. This breakthrough optogenetic tool bypasses uncontrolled calcium translocation, reducing potential side effects.

Algae with light switch

Researchers discovered that Chlamydomonas algae can control its adhesion to surfaces using blue light, a phenomenon that could improve the efficiency of biofuels production. By understanding this mechanism, scientists hope to develop algae strains with modified photoreceptors that don't form biofilms on glass walls.

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.

Grant will lead to safer, tougher spacesuits

A new protective textile developed at the University of Delaware using shear thickening fluid technology will protect astronauts from punctures and projectiles in space. The technology has been awarded a $750,000 grant to produce a prototype for NASA's Journey to Mars mission.

Why do we fall asleep when bored?

A new study published in Nature Communications finds that the nucleus accumbens, associated with motivation and pleasure, can produce sleep. This discovery may explain why people tend to fall asleep in boring situations, as it suggests a strong ability of this brain region to induce sleep.

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.

Scientists have found a way to create drug molecules from carbon monoxide

Researchers at RUDN University have developed a new method for creating drug molecules using carbon monoxide as a reducing agent. This innovation offers an energy-efficient solution to producing valuable chemicals, potentially reducing waste and costs. The study's findings suggest that this technology could be used in the synthesis of ...

Scandinavia's earliest farmers exchanged terminology with Indo-Europeans

Research shows that Neolithic farmers in southern Scandinavia contributed to the development of Indo-European vocabulary before their own language went extinct. Words like 'pea', 'shrimp' and 'turnip' entered Indo-European from local cultures, highlighting cultural exchange between 2,800-2,600 BC.

New functions of hippocampus unveiled

Researchers have discovered that low-frequency activities in the hippocampus drive brain-wide functional connectivity in the cerebral cortex, enhancing sensory responses and learning. This breakthrough suggests the hippocampus is a key region in the brain, with potential therapeutic implications for Alzheimer's disease.

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.

Open-access collider data confirm subatomic particle patterns

Researchers used CMS open data to analyze jets produced from proton collisions, revealing a universal feature within subatomic particles. The study demonstrates the scientific value of open access in particle physics and provides a stepping stone for future analysis.

How the lungs of premature babies can undergo damage

Research reveals that genetic mutations in PDGFR-α and TGF-β signaling pathways contribute to the development of BPD. Lowered production of PDGFR-α leads to increased oxygen demand, defective septation, and apoptosis.

Special focus issue: 'Bioanalysis of biopharmaceuticals'

A Special Focus Issue on 'Bioanalysis of Biopharmaceuticals' has been published by Bioanalysis journal, highlighting recent advances in analysis and development. The issue explores the challenges and novel strategies in bioanalysis of biopharmaceuticals.

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.

Examining the management of diabetes in special populations

This thematic issue explores customized diabetes management in medically complex patients, including those with mental illness, post-bariatric surgery, older adults, and disparity populations. Key findings highlight the importance of psychosocial assessment and medication adjustments to improve patient outcomes.

Genes that separate humans from fruit flies found

Researchers have identified proteins that control cell complexity in animals, revealing a key difference between humans and simpler organisms like fruit flies and sea urchins. The study found that specific genes interact with chromatin to regulate cellular processes, contributing to the increased complexity of mammals.

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.

Frequent sauna bathing keeps blood pressure in check

Men who batted in saunas 4-7 times a week had lower blood pressure levels than those who only batted once a week. This was attributed to vasodilation, improved endothelial function, and relaxation of the body and mind. Regular sauna bathing also reduced the risk of pulmonary diseases.

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.

Small collisions make big impact on Mercury's thin atmosphere

Researchers have found that small collisions between comets and Mercury's surface create a lopsided bombardment of tiny dust particles, influencing the planet's very thin atmosphere called an exosphere. The study suggests that specific types of comets, such as Jupiter-family and Halley-type, contribute to this phenomenon.

Gamers have an advantage in learning

A study by Ruhr-University Bochum found that gamers excelled in a learning competition against non-gamers, particularly in situations with high uncertainties. This advantage is linked to increased brain activity in the hippocampus, a key region for learning and memory.

New regulator of liver metabolism discovered

Researchers at Charité found that retinol saturase plays a role in adaptive processes in liver cells, increasing with body weight and reducing negative metabolic effects associated with excess glucose exposure. The enzyme's inactivation may offer a new approach to treating metabolic liver disease and its related issues.

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.

UV-irradiated amorphous ice behaves like liquid at low temperatures

Researchers from Hokkaido University discovered that UV-irradiated amorphous ice exhibits liquid-like behavior at extremely low temperature ranges. The ice behaves similarly to a liquid, with a viscosity similar to that of honey or silicic magma, allowing it to facilitate the formation of organic compounds and dust accretion on planets.

Confronted with bacteria, infected cells die so others can live, Penn study finds

In a new study, researchers led by Igor E. Brodsky identified a mechanism that allows host cells to overcome the strategies used by pathogens like Yersinia bacteria to evade the immune system. By understanding this 'back-up alarm' system, scientists may be able to develop new therapies to target tumor cells and promote their demise.

Antarctica: Return of the Weddell polynya supports Kiel climate model

The Weddell Sea has formed a large ice-free area, supporting the Kiel climate model. This natural phenomenon plays a crucial role in sea ice formation and deep water circulation. Scientists closely monitor its occurrence to improve climate models and differentiate between natural variability and human-induced changes.

Achieving National HIV/AIDS Strategy targets would save lives, be cost effective

A Massachusetts General Hospital analysis shows that achieving the treatment targets of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy by 2020 would prevent hundreds of thousands of new infections and deaths. Meeting NHAS goals would also demonstrate excellent value, with a cost-effectiveness ratio of $68,900 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY).

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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