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Science News Archive December 2018


Page 21 of 33

Terahertz laser for sensing and imaging outperforms its predecessors

The MIT-designed terahertz laser achieves three key performance goals: high constant power, tight beam pattern, and broad electric frequency tuning. This technology could be used for improved skin and breast cancer imaging, detecting drugs and explosives, and mapping the Milky Way galaxy.

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.

A future for red wolves may be found on Galveston Island

Scientists have discovered red wolf genes in canids on Galveston Island, providing a potential reservoir for bolstering the North Carolina population. This finding is significant as it suggests that genetics from endangered species can be conserved through hybridization.

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.

Researchers propose guidelines for the therapeutic use of melatonin

Researchers propose guidelines for the therapeutic use of melatonin to address potential health risks, citing over 23,000 published studies. The guidelines aim to provide a systematic framework for analyzing melatonin's effects and role in human physiology and pathophysiology.

Using water molecules to unlock neurons' secrets

Scientists have developed a method to monitor changes in membrane potential and observe ion fluxes by studying the behavior of water molecules surrounding neuronal membranes. This breakthrough could provide insight into neural activity, enabling scientists to track neurons without using electrodes or fluorophores.

Alaska earthquakes offer new insight into improving hazard assessment

Researchers are exploring answers to fill crucial gaps in understanding intra-slab earthquakes, which can be large magnitude and felt over a broad area. They found that local geology can dramatically change the earthquake's effects, highlighting the need for hazard assessments to include information about the deep earth.

The importins of anxiety

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science have revealed a previously unknown mechanism underlying anxiety. Targeting this biochemical pathway may help develop new therapies for alleviating the symptoms of anxiety disorders.

Historic earthquakes test Indonesia's seismic hazard assessment

Researchers analyzed historical data to determine the sources of destructive Indonesian earthquakes, finding that intraslab earthquakes were responsible for many damaging quakes. The study suggests that Indonesia's 2010 and 2017 seismic hazard assessments perform well in predicting ground motion in key Javanese cities.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gut microbiome may affect some anti-diabetes drugs

Researchers at Wake Forest School of Medicine discovered that gut bacteria can enhance or inhibit the effectiveness of anti-diabetes drugs. The review of over 100 studies suggests that modulation of the gut microbiome may be a target to improve or reverse medication efficacy for type-2 diabetes.

Novel technique may significantly reduce breast biopsies

A new study found that combining mammography with a novel imaging technique called three-compartment breast (3CB) imaging can significantly reduce unnecessary breast biopsies. The technique uses AI algorithms to analyze tissue composition, improving the ability to predict cancer and reducing recalls by up to 36%.

Can social interactions affect spread of disease?

Researchers develop a time-varying network model that factors in individual dynamics and burstiness to better explain the relationship between social activity and disease spread. The model shows that self-excitement mechanisms lower the epidemic threshold, increasing disease communicability.

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.

Nuclear events make a flower bloom

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered how transcription factors AGAMOUS and CRABS CLAW bind to the YUC4 gene, regulating plant hormone auxin synthesis. This epigenetic regulation is crucial for proper flower formation and gynoecium development.

Sun-soaking device turns water into superheated steam

Researchers develop device that uses suspended structure to absorb solar energy, heating water to boiling point and producing superheated steam. The device can be used in remote regions to generate drinking water, sterilize medical equipment, or supply heat for industrial processes.

Topological material switched off and on for the first time

Researchers have successfully switched a material between two states of matter via application of an electric-field, paving the way for a functioning topological transistor. This breakthrough could enable ultra-low energy electronics to continue growing without being limited by available energy.

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.

Invasive species and habitat loss our biggest biodiversity threats

New research highlights invasive species as the top threat to Australian biodiversity, affecting 82% of threatened species, while habitat changes impact 74%. The Threatened Species Recovery Hub and Centre for Invasive Species Solutions warn of an extinction crisis without innovative management options.

Providers show interest in prescribing therapeutic cannabinoids

A survey of dermatology providers found that they are interested in learning about and recommending cannabinoids as treatments for conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Despite their enthusiasm, many expressed concerns about societal stigmas surrounding cannabis use, highlighting the need for further education and research.

Scientific assessment of endangered languages produces mixed results

The study found that over half of the world's living languages are currently endangered, with around 600 nearly extinct. However, hundreds of languages have been documented sustainably archived audio and video collections, and there is ongoing engagement from indigenous researchers on their own languages.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Regular flu shots may save heart failure patients' lives

A new study found that flu vaccination is associated with a reduced risk of premature death and cardiovascular death in heart failure patients. The study analyzed data on 134,048 patients with newly diagnosed heart failure over a 12-year period.

Going viral: New cells for norovirus production in the lab

A team from Osaka University has created a system to produce large numbers of human norovirus particles using intestinal epithelial cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. This breakthrough allows for the study of the virus and potential vaccine development without relying on human tissue or bile.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Your brain on imagination: It's a lot like reality, study shows

A new study shows that imagination can be a powerful tool in helping people with fear and anxiety-related disorders overcome them. Brain imaging studies suggest that imagination can alter the way threats are represented in the brain, leading to extinction of fear responses.

Golf is most common among older male surgeons

The study found that at least 4% of doctors play golf, with male doctors and surgical specialists spending the most time on the course. Male doctors between 61-70 were most likely to play golf, while female doctors aged 31-35 were least likely.

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.

Research to identify and target high blood pressure indicators

Researchers are exploring the interaction between vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and myeloid cells in blood circulation to identify novel biomarkers for unstable plaques. This project aims to develop therapeutic targets for treating blood vessel complications in hypertension, potentially preventing heart attacks and stroke.

Compelling evidence for small drops of perfect fluid

Researchers analyzed particle flow from tiny projectiles colliding with gold nuclei at nearly the speed of light. The data show strong correlations between initial geometry and final flow patterns, supporting the quark-gluon plasma hypothesis.

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.

Preventing international trade fraud

A study on European Union international trading markets reveals conditions where the Newcomb-Benford Law applies and where it does not, enabling the detection of frauds. The findings may lead to an automated system for flagging suspicious patterns in transactions.

Brainwaves suppress obvious ideas to help us think more creatively

A new study reveals that brainwaves play a crucial role in inhibiting habitual thinking modes to access more remote ideas. By stimulating the right temporal part of the brain, researchers can increase the capability of inhibiting obvious links, leading to more creative outcomes.

Small and isolated habitat patches crucial to species survival

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that small and isolated habitat patches are vital to the survival of many rare and endangered species. The research highlights the importance of conserving these small patches, which can sometimes be the last remaining habitats for species.

Age-related changes in T cells

Researchers observed age-related changes in T cell mitochondrial size and respiratory capacity. Supplementing aged mice with formate and glycine improved T cell survival and growth, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for boosting immune responses in older individuals.

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.

Genetic study of epilepsy points to potential new therapies

A large-scale genetic study has identified 11 new genes associated with epilepsy, which may inform the development of new treatments. The research, led by RCSI researchers, compared DNA samples from over 15,000 people with and without epilepsy, tripling the number of known genetic associations.

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.

Simple tips to curb overindulgence can help stop pounds piling on at Christmas

A study by the University of Birmingham found that regular weighing at home and simple tips to curb excess eating and drinking can prevent people from gaining weight over Christmas. Participants who weighed themselves daily and followed weight management tips lost an average of 0.49kg compared to those in the comparison group.

Study points to optimal blood pressure treatment for stroke patients

Researchers found that maintaining systolic blood pressure at around 140 mmHg experienced fewer negative health outcomes, such as second strokes, death or cardiovascular disease. The findings provide some clarity for physicians, but more research is needed to confirm the optimal level of blood pressure.

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.

How catnip makes the chemical that causes cats to go crazy

Researchers at John Innes Centre discovered the two-step process by which catnip produces nepetalactone, a terpene that sends cats into ecstasy. This process may help recreate useful medicines, including vinblastine and vincristine, more efficiently.

Big datasets pinpoint new regions to explore the genome for disease

Researchers used a massive dataset of over 100,000 individuals to identify constrained regions of genes that may underlie developmental disorders. These 'constrained' regions are intolerant to DNA changes and may cause disease when mutated, according to the study published in Nature Genetics.

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.