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Science News Archive August 2018 - Page 33


Page 33 of 41

Introducing the latest in textiles: Soft hardware

Researchers at MIT have developed soft hardware that can be worn, integrating high-speed optoelectronic semiconductor devices into fibers woven into washable fabrics. This breakthrough could lead to a new 'Moore's Law' in fibers, enabling rapid growth in capabilities.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018

Top 43 reasons why men remain single -- according to Reddit

A study on Reddit comments reveals that most single men wanted a relationship, but struggled with social skills such as flirting and confidence. The analysis identified 43 reasons, including poor looks, lack of effort, and mental health issues.

SourceSpringer·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateAug 8, 2018

There and back again: Mantle xenon has a story to tell

A new study by Washington University in St. Louis reveals that the Earth shifted its volatile transport regime around 2.5 billion years ago, with a significant increase in regassing potentially enabled by subduction. This change had a profound impact on the internal churning of the mantle and plate motions at the surface.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

Crowdsourcing algorithms to predict epileptic seizures

A study by University of Melbourne researchers reveals that clinically relevant epileptic seizure prediction is possible in a wider range of patients than previously thought. The crowdsourcing of over 10,000 algorithms worldwide led to an average 90% improvement in seizure prediction performance compared to previous results.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalBrain·DateAug 8, 2018

NASA's GPM passes over weakening Hurricane John

The Global Precipitation Measurement mission provided detailed coverage of hurricane John, revealing heavy rainfall in the eastern half of the hurricane. The satellite's radar data showed extremely heavy rainfall rates of over 2 inches per hour just east of John's eye, with storms reaching altitudes of up to 13.5 km.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2018

Scientists create biodegradable, paper-based biobatteries

Researchers at Binghamton University have created a biodegradable, paper-based battery that is more efficient and easy to produce than previous designs. The hybrid paper battery uses a combination of paper and engineered polymers to give it biodegradable properties.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

Older adults who get physical can lower their heart disease risk

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that older adults who spend less time sitting and more time engaged in light to vigorous physical activity benefit from healthier levels of heart and vessel disease markers. The results showed that increased physical activity was particularly beneficial for...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 8, 2018

UToledo chemists discover how blue light speeds blindness

Blue light from digital devices and the sun transforms vital molecules in the eye's retina into cell killers, leading to age-related macular degeneration. A new therapy is being explored that uses a natural antioxidant called alpha tocopherol to slow down this process.

SourceUniversity of Toledo·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2018

Novel approach to coherent control of a three-level quantum system

Scientists study quantum interference in a three-level quantum system and demonstrate complete control over individual electron spins. The researchers extend coherence time by a hundredfold, providing protection for fragile quantum states and opening new perspectives for sensor technology.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 8, 2018

Expedition probes ocean's smallest organisms for climate answers

Phytoplankton, tiny plant-like organisms, play a key role in removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. The EXPORTS team is studying the pathways, fates, and carbon cycle impacts of phytoplankton and zooplankton using advanced underwater robotics and satellite imagery.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 8, 2018

Models may help reduce bycatch from longline fishing

Researchers developed models that predict the month-by-month movements of longline fishing fleets on the high seas. These predictions can help regulatory agencies pinpoint potential hotspots where by-catch risks are greatest and take proactive measures to reduce accidental kills.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 8, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Is your lung cancer really ROS1-negative?

A CU Cancer Center study found that common laboratory tests used to determine ROS1 status in lung cancer have inherent limitations, leading to false-negative results. The study highlights the need for multiple testing methods and secondary analysis to confirm results, particularly for patients with suspicious symptoms or unusual profiles.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateAug 8, 2018

Inducing labor can help prevent cesarean births

A new national study has found that inducing labor in first-time mothers at 39 weeks can lower respiratory problems and potentially decrease cesarean rates and hypertension. Researchers suggest discussing induction with healthcare providers to inform the decision, as it may lead to significant changes in pregnancy management.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018

Mission: Possible -- mapping dangerous terrain

Researchers are creating self-guided packages made of biodegradable materials to map coastlines and sea bottoms. These devices aim to dissolve upon reaching shore, providing up-to-date information on potentially hostile regions. Additionally, a swarm of drones will be developed using cameras, sonar, and sensors to evade tracking, with ...

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

Ketogenic diets may lead to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Research suggests ketogenic diets may cause an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes in the early stage of the diet, particularly through insulin resistance. The study found that fatty acids from a ketogenic diet can have signaling roles in the brain.

SourceThe Physiological Society·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateAug 8, 2018

New research pinpoints pathways Ebola virus uses to enter cells

A new study by Texas Biomedical Research Institute sheds light on the role of specific proteins in triggering autophagy, a mechanism allowing Ebola virus to enter cells. The findings have implications for treating complex diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's, where macropinocytosis is dysregulated.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

To understand working memory, scientists must resolve this debate

Working memory is a crucial aspect of cognitive function, and researchers are trying to understand its underlying mechanisms. A recent study suggests that brief, coordinated bursts of neural activity may be essential for maintaining working memory. This finding challenges the traditional view that neurons fire continuously during this ...

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·DateAug 8, 2018

Flipping a switch in the space between atoms

Dr. Nick Strandwitz is exploring a multi-step method to address temperature issues in atomic layer deposition (ALD), a process crucial for precision thin film growth. His goal is to control the crystallinity of the material, which affects its electronic properties.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 8, 2018

Computational platform optimizes multiple myeloma treatments

Researchers developed QPOP, a computational platform that identifies effective drug combinations against bortezomib-resistant MM. The platform successfully predicted dosages for combination therapies, leading to reduced tumor size and prolonged survival in mouse models.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

Scientists reduced the weight of optics for satellite observation by 100 times

Researchers at Samara University developed an ultralight diffraction optic that weighs just 5 grams, compared to a massive system of lenses and mirrors weighing 500 grams. The new technology enables high-resolution images with comparable quality to consumer cameras and mobile phones.

SourceSamara University·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing·DateAug 8, 2018

Oral delivery of nanoparticles

Researchers have successfully designed nanoparticles that can be absorbed through the intestine and into the bloodstream when taken orally. The modified particles showed improved uptake in rats, with about 47% making it into the blood, compared to 7% for unmodified particles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 8, 2018
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.

How axons change chemical cues to mechanical force

A team of Japanese and American scientists have identified shootin1 as a key molecule in axon guidance, converting chemical cues into mechanical force. The study found that even slight concentration gradients in nectin-1 induce significant changes in shootin1 phosphorylation, guiding the axon with remarkable sensitivity.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·DateAug 7, 2018

UTIA Animal Science professor named fellow by Poultry Science Association

Dr. Michael O. Smith, a UTIA professor of poultry production, has been elected a Fellow in the Poultry Science Association for his professional distinction and contributions to the field. He is one of five members elected at any given meeting, recognizing his contributions without longevity considerations.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateAug 7, 2018
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.

Upgrade for virtual brain cell

A new model simulates Purkinje cells, helping researchers understand their function in controlling body movement. The model demonstrates that climbing fibers can teach these cells to fire with analogue information, enabling nuance and fine targeting.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 7, 2018

How people view crime depends on the politics of when they were growing up

A recent study published in the British Journal of Criminology reveals that people's perceptions of crime are heavily influenced by the political climate of their youth. Researchers analyzed data from the British Crime Survey and found a strong correlation between respondents' current fears about crime and the political generation they...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe British Journal of Criminology·DateAug 7, 2018
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.

Oregon has its share of fire storms

Five large fires in Oregon's southwest corner are burning out of control due to a region-wide lightning storm on July 15. The Garner Complex and Taylor Creek Fire have combined to become the largest fire, with the Taylor Creek Fire growing to 41,103 acres.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 7, 2018

Seeing the light: Scientists unlock seed germination process

Researchers discovered a crucial gene that regulates seed germination based on light conditions, enhancing plant survival. The MFT gene helps seeds decide whether to germinate, allowing them to thrive in optimal environments.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2018

Forests crucial for limiting climate change to 1.5 degrees

A recent study by the University of Exeter suggests that replacing forests with crops for bioenergy power stations could increase CO2 in the atmosphere, while protecting and regenerating forests may be a more sensible option. The research highlights the importance of land use changes in mitigating climate change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Genetic 'toolkit' helps periwinkles gain advantage on the seashore

Researchers found that periwinkles have developed a genetic toolkit with specific genes clustered on three chromosomes to help them adapt to environments threatened by crabs and waves. This rapid adaptation is thought to have occurred within 5,000 generations, enabling the snails to survive in rapidly changing coastal habitats.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalEvolution Letters·DateAug 7, 2018

Retired pro football and hockey players learn that CTE isn't inevitable

A three-part study of 22 retired pro football and hockey players found no increase in the rate of early-onset dementia or cognitive decline. Standard neuropsychological tests and brain imaging scans showed minimal differences between groups, contradicting previous concerns about CTE.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateAug 7, 2018

Observing the mechanism of metastasis for the first time

A team of researchers has confirmed that healthy tumor hybrid cells contribute to metastasis by forming spontaneously in live animals. Gene expression profiles show a mix of genes from both cell types, aiding metastatic cells in survival and potential groundwork for other tumor cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateAug 7, 2018

Capturing elephants from the wild shortens their lives

A study analyzing records of timber elephants in Myanmar found that even years after capture, wild-caught elephants' mortality rate remains increased and their average life expectancy is several years shorter compared to captive-born animals. This highlights the negative effects of capture on the long-term well-being of elephants.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 7, 2018
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.

Likelihood of dementia higher among black ethnic groups

A new UCL-led study found that dementia diagnosis rates are 25% higher among black women and 28% higher among black men compared to white counterparts. Researchers suggest that inequalities in care, stigma, and cultural background may contribute to these disparities.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalClinical Epidemiology·DateAug 7, 2018

Scientists shed new light on hepatitis B virus origins

Researchers have identified the geographical origins and global spread of HBV genotypes D and A, which originated in the Middle East and North Africa. The study reveals differences in their dissemination patterns, influenced by prehistoric and recent human migrations.

SourceeLife·DateAug 7, 2018

Baby sea snails ride waves into shallower waters, study suggests

A Rutgers University-led study documents how baby sea snail larvae detect and respond to ocean turbulence and waves, improving their chances of survival. Climate change may impact the habitats of these larvae, potentially affecting their populations.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 7, 2018
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.

Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes: Hope for inhibitors against amyloid plaques

Scientists at TUM have discovered a new class of designed macrocyclic peptides that are highly potent inhibitors of amyloid formation, which could be an alternative to current antibody-based approaches. The researchers are now planning further investigations to verify their effectiveness in in vivo models.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 7, 2018

Renovations lead to big improvement at Nuclear Astrophysics lab

Researchers at a nuclear astrophysics lab achieved an order-of-magnitude increase in normalized brightness after upgrading their accelerator. The new system improved high-voltage source stability and signal-to-background ratio, enabling higher proton beam intensity without damaging targets.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateAug 7, 2018

Tropical birds benefit from more forest by rivers in oil palm areas

A study by the University of Kent found that large riparian reserves tend to support more bird species than nearby forests. The researchers discovered that a single river site can host around a third of all bird species found in adjacent forests, with wider protected areas supporting even more species.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 7, 2018

How a computer learns to dribble: Practice, practice, practice

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and DeepMotion Inc. developed a physics-based method for controlling animated characters to learn dribbling skills from motion capture data. The system requires millions of trials but produces arm movements closely coordinated with physically plausible ball movement.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateAug 7, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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