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Science News Archive August 2018


Page 23 of 41

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.

Chips, light and coding moves the front line in beating bacteria

A multidisciplinary team of scientists from OIST has developed a novel tool to monitor biofilm growth, allowing for more efficient testing of replacement antibiotics. By using nanostructured chips and localized surface plasmon resonance, the researchers can observe bacterial cells growing without disrupting their test subjects.

NASA catches formation of fifth Atlantic depression

A fifth tropical cyclone has formed in the North Atlantic Ocean, with Subtropical Depression Five located near latitude degrees 37.6 north and longitude 45.6 west. The storm is moving toward the north at a speed of 5 mph, with forecasted strengthening expected during the next day or so.

Particles pull last drops of oil from well water

Rice University scientists have created a magnetic nanoparticle compound that efficiently separates crude oil droplets from produced water. The nanoparticles are attracted to the magnet and bind to the oil, allowing for easy separation. This solution could be valuable for industry and offshore oil rigs.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Molecular switch detects metals in the environment

Researchers from UNIGE have developed a new type of chemical sensor capable of detecting the presence of metals in the environment. The sensor forms a 3D structure with molecules that emit light when metal ions are present, making it easy to detect and identify different types of metals.

When viruses infect phytoplankton, it can change the clouds

A recent study found that when phytoplankton is infected with a virus, it releases large amounts of chalky particles into the air, affecting cloud properties and Earth's energy balance. The research suggests that these emissions play a significant role in shaping atmospheric conditions.

Study: immune cell dysfunction linked to photosensitivity

Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery discovered a key role for Langerhans cells in protecting the skin from UV light-induced injury. The study found that impaired Langerhans cell function contributes to photosensitivity in lupus patients, providing a potential new target for treatment.

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.

NIH-funded researchers reverse congenital blindness in mice

Researchers have reversed congenital blindness in mice by changing supportive cells in the retina called Müller glia into rod photoreceptors. The new technique integrates Müller glia-derived rods into the brain's visual pathway, enabling mice to regain functional vision.

3D inks that can be erased selectively

Researchers from KIT have developed photoresists that can be erased selectively, allowing specific degradation and reassembly of microstructures on the micrometer and nanometer scales. This enables complex geometries with precise filigree structures, applications in biomedicine, microelectronics, and optical metamaterials.

Old species learn new tricks...very slowly

A study published in Scientific Reports found that young species of cupuladriid bryozoans can expand into new Caribbean habitats more quickly than older species, taking 2 million years longer to adapt on average.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Robots will never replace teachers but can boost children's education

A new study suggests robots can play an important role in teaching certain narrow subjects like vocabulary and prime numbers, but their social interaction limitations will keep them as teaching assistants for now. Robots have the potential to support and challenge students, freeing up time for human teachers.

New research predicts landslide boundaries two weeks before they happen

University of Melbourne researchers have developed a software tool to predict landslide boundaries by identifying subtle patterns in motion, allowing for early warning signs to be detected. The tool uses big data analytics and applied mathematics to shed light on the microstructure level of failure in landslides.

Scientists discover chemical which can kill glioblastoma cells

Researchers found a synthetic chemical, KHS101, which disrupts the mitochondria and metabolism of glioblastoma cells, leading to their self-destruction. The study showed promising results in mice, with a 50% decrease in tumour growth and an increase in survival.

Male tobacco smokers have brain-wide reduction of CB1 receptors

A study found that frequent tobacco smokers had a nearly 20% decrease in CB1 receptors across the brain, similar to previous findings in cannabis and alcohol abuse. This reduction may be associated with addiction and could have negative effects on normal brain functions like memory and stress coping.

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.

Logging site slash removal may be boon for wild bees in managed forests

Researchers at Oregon State University found that removing timber harvest residue during logging can increase the abundance and diversity of wild bees. The study suggests that managing forests to promote soil-nesting bee habitats could be an effective strategy for conserving these important pollinators.

Dating the ancient Minoan eruption of Thera using tree rings

Researchers have dated the ancient Minoan eruption of Thera to between 1600 and 1525 BC using tree ring analysis, which overlaps with previously estimated dates from archeological evidence. This discovery resolves long-standing debates about the timing of the eruption.

A review of prevalent methods for automatic skin lesion diagnosis

The article reviews existing novel approaches for automating melanocytic skin lesions diagnosis, highlighting success and shortcomings. Recommendations are made to reduce complexity and protracted computation by favoring better classification models over feature selection.

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.

Model way to protect trees

A new mathematical model suggests that balancing demand variability and costs can significantly reduce the risk of importing exotic forest pests and diseases. The research, published in The Journal of Applied Ecology, recommends longer-term grant schemes and higher import duties to help nurseries manage fluctuations.

Fluorescent probe sheds light on tuberculosis bacteria

Scientists have created a fluorescent probe that can tag single specimens of tuberculosis bacteria, which could lead to faster diagnosis and more effective treatments. The probe works by detecting the presence of an enzyme called BlaC, allowing for the identification of live versus dead bacteria.

How ugly marital spats might open the door to disease

Researchers at Ohio State University found a strong link between hostility in marriages and the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, leading to inflammation. Lifestyle changes such as healthy diets and probiotics may help mitigate this effect.

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.

Protein droplets keep neurons at the ready and immune system in balance

Researchers have discovered that protein droplets, which self-organize into liquid-like structures inside cells, enable neurons to transmit signals quickly and efficiently. In the immune system, droplets of a danger-sensing enzyme trigger an immune response by generating signals that launch defense mechanisms.

Magnetic antiparticles offer new horizons for information technologies

Physicists have revealed new behavior involving magnetic antiparticles in ferromagnetic materials, which could lead to innovative data storage and processing methods. The researchers found that opposite topological charges can behave differently, resulting in the creation of skyrmion-antiskyrmion pairs.

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.

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.

Neonatal pig hearts can heal from heart attack

Researchers discovered that neonatal pig hearts can functionally and structurally recover from experimental heart attacks. The ability to regenerate heart muscle is short-lived, disappearing by day three after birth.

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.

Weight gain after smoking cessation linked to increased short-term diabetes risk

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that people who gain weight after quitting smoking may face a temporary increase in type 2 diabetes risk, directly proportional to the weight gain. However, quitters can still reap significant health benefits, including lower cardiovascular disease and cancer risks.

Should all babies have their genomes sequenced?

A new report recommends that targeted genomic sequencing be used to diagnose sick newborns, but genome-wide sequencing of all newborns should not be pursued. The report also advises against direct-to-consumer genetic testing for newborns due to potential anxiety and lack of adequate follow-up.

Mizzou program significantly reduces delay in autism diagnosis

A new study shows that a University of Missouri program significantly reduces diagnostic wait times for young children at highest risk for autism. The ECHO Autism program provides hands-on training, virtual discussions and practice to help primary care providers diagnose autism in young children, saving families an average of 172.7 mil...

NASA catches Tropical Depression Leepi nearing landfall

Tropical Depression Leepi was nearing landfall in southern South Korea when NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite captured its shapeless form. The depression is moving toward the north-northwest with maximum sustained winds at 34.5 mph, expected to be absorbed into a mid-latitude cyclone by Aug. 17.

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.

Structure of ion channel reveals how insects smell their way around the world

A new study describes the structure of an ion channel responsible for detecting odors in insects, revealing how millions of receptor varieties evolved to accommodate diverse habitats. The discovery offers insights into insect olfaction and evolution, potentially leading to innovations for disease prevention and human benefit.

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.

How forests improve kids' diets

A global study reveals that children living near forests have better nutrition due to increased dietary diversity from forest products and reduced micronutrient deficiencies. Forests promote health through multiple pathways, including access to a range of foods and income for food purchases.

Password managers vulnerable to insider hacking

Researchers from Aalto University and the University of Helsinki discovered over ten computer security-critical applications, including password managers, are susceptible to insider attacks. These vulnerabilities arise from inadequate protection of internal communication channels, allowing malicious processes to access sensitive data.

Optimizing airport flight patterns take a toll on human health

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that increased airport flight patterns can pose serious health threats to nearby communities. The researchers analyzed the impact of LaGuardia Airport's automated flight systems on noise levels and their effects on cardiovascular disease and anxiety disorder.

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.

This matrix delivers healing stem cells to injured elderly muscles

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a molecular matrix that effectively delivers muscle satellite cells to injured muscle tissue, promoting healing and protection from immune reactions. The hydrogel therapy has potential to treat muscular dystrophy patients, including those with Duchene muscular dystrophy.

Mapping the future direction for quantum research

A revised roadmap outlines the current status of quantum technology, examining its challenges and goals. The roadmap identifies key areas of focus, including quantum communication, computing, simulation, metrology, and control.

Common Wifi can detect weapons, bombs and chemicals in bags

A Rutgers University-led study demonstrates that ordinary WiFi can be used to detect weapons, bombs, and explosive chemicals in bags at museums, stadiums, theme parks, schools, and other public venues. The system uses wireless signals to identify objects and materials, reducing security screening costs and manpower needed.

Emergency hospital visits more common among most deprived bowel cancer patients

Research reveals up to 13% higher proportions of emergency hospital visits among bowel cancer patients living in the most deprived areas, with nearly half experiencing an emergency visit compared to a third of those from less deprived backgrounds. Improved access to healthcare and screening programs may help reduce these disparities.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Bebinca still near Hainan Island

Tropical Storm Bebinca has been affecting Hainan Island in China for days, with NASA's Suomi NPP satellite capturing its powerful thunderstorms. The storm is currently moving westward through the Gulf of Tonkin, expected to make landfall in Vietnam.

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.