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Science News Archive February 2018


Page 12 of 36

Zika virus could help combat brain cancer

Researchers found that Zika virus infection causes death of glioblastoma cells, a common and aggressive type of brain tumor. The study suggests that genetically modifying Zika virus to produce the digoxin molecule could be an alternative treatment for glioblastoma.

First evidence of surprising ocean warming around Galápagos corals

Researchers found that the northern Galápagos Islands have been warming by almost 0.4 degrees F per decade, with temperatures increasing overall by about 1.1 degrees F since the 1970s. This finding is significant because it suggests that the region's reefs are more vulnerable to climate change than previously thought.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The writing on the wall

Researchers propose that cave art may have played a role in the development of human language, citing acoustic properties and visual representations. The study suggests that early humans used sound echoes to convey symbolic thinking, which eventually led to the creation of language.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Snake-inspired robot uses kirigami to move

A team of researchers developed a soft robot that uses kirigami to achieve locomotion, gripping the ground like snakeskin. The robot's surface transforms into a textured surface as it stretches, allowing it to crawl without rigid components.

How do neural support cells affect nerve function?

Researchers discovered that glial cells increase the acidity of the extracellular environment when exposed to ATP, leading to a massive release of acid. This triggers a feedback loop that prevents over-excitability of neurons by inhibiting neurotransmitter release.

Primate researcher confirmed as the first Zukunftskolleg Hector Fellow

Dr Gisela Kopp, a biologist at the University of Konstanz's Max Planck Institute, will receive a five-year fellowship to explore unusual research questions and new avenues of thought. The award aims to support early career researchers from MINT disciplines with innovative and interdisciplinary approaches.

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.

Researchers uncover novel mechanism behind schizophrenia

A study published in PNAS found that a protein called neuregulin 3 suppresses the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter essential for learning, in people with schizophrenia. The researchers used genetic and biochemical techniques to investigate how neuregulin 3 controls neurotransmitters in the brain.

Smartphones are bad for some teens, not all

Research by Candice Odgers highlights both positive and negative uses of smartphones among teens. While moderate usage is linked to no negative impact on mental well-being, increased screen time among low-income teens correlates with more physical fights, arguments, and school troubles.

Scientists create 'Evolutionwatch' for plants

Researchers used historic and modern plant genomes to measure the rate of evolution in a wild plant. They found that Arabidopsis had been introduced to North America by Europeans around 1600, with new mutations appearing over the past 400 years. These findings provide insights into the genetic paradox of invasion.

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.

How bacteria manipulate plants

Researchers have discovered how Xanthomonas bacteria manipulate nutrient supply and hormonal balance in plants. The study found that a specific protein, XopH, targets phosphorus supplies inside plant cells, weakening plant defences and allowing bacteria to multiply.

Phishing success linked to incentives and sticking to an effective strategy

A new study on attacker motives identifies successful phishing strategies, including authoritative tone and shared interest, which can be used to develop detection tools. The study also found that incentives, such as quicker and larger rewards, motivate attackers to apply more effort in constructing persuasive emails.

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.

Simple walking test may help make difficult diagnosis

Researchers found that a simple walking test can accurately diagnose idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) by assessing participants' gait while performing dual tasks. The study revealed that the test improved diagnostic accuracy to 97% when combined with other assessments.

New research sheds light on prehistoric human migration in europe

The study confirmed two major migrations through southeastern Europe, with early farmers from Anatolia spreading westward and a steppe population replacing northern Europe's population. The region remained a genetic contact zone between East and West until the Bronze Age.

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.

Bacteria produce more substances than hitherto assumed

A team of researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum has discovered that the bacterium Streptomyces chartreusis produces 1,044 different substances, exceeding expectations. Many of these substances have pharmaceutical potential and could lead to new treatments for patients who suffer from iron overdose or aluminium toxicity.

New therapeutic gel shows promise against cancerous tumors

Researchers at UNC and NC State developed a biodegradable hydrogel scaffold system to release combination chemo-immunotherapeutic drugs, significantly inhibiting cancer recurrence after primary tumor removal. The approach could work in other tissue types and has shown promising results in animal models.

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.

Ancient DNA tells tales of humans' migrant history

A new study using ancient DNA analysis has found that human populations have been migrating and mixing extensively throughout history, with the Yamnaya people from Central Asia expanding rapidly to Europe, Britain, and beyond. The research also reveals a biased genetic exchange between farmers and hunter-gatherers in northern Europe.

From compost to composites: An eco-friendly way to improve rubber (video)

Researchers created a composite material combining natural rubber with nanocarbons derived from compost, demonstrating improved electrical resistivity and potential applications as sealants and sensors. The study provides an eco-friendly alternative to carbon black fillers, which are commonly used in rubber products.

UT Dallas team's microscopic solution may save researchers big time

A UT Dallas team has addressed a long-standing problem in scanning tunneling microscopes, preventing tip crashes that can damage samples and forfeit valuable time. The breakthrough enables atomically precise manufacturing, leading to innovations in materials science, medicine, and computing.

Precision cancer therapy effective in both children and adults

A phase 1/2 trial of larotrectinib found that three-quarters of patients with advanced cancers responded to the treatment, which targets a specific genetic mutation. The therapy has shown promise in treating pediatric patients with TRK-positive cancer, including infantile fibrosarcoma, and offers a potential cure for some cases.

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.

Five novel genetic changes linked to pancreatic cancer risk

Researchers discovered five new regions in the human genome associated with increased pancreatic cancer risk, including variants in genes that regulate cell growth and tumor suppression. The findings may lead to more targeted treatments and early detection screening for pancreatic cancer.

'Beetroot pill' could help save patients from kidney failure after heart X-ray

A new study by Queen Mary University of London aims to develop a 'beetroot pill' that could reduce the risk of kidney failure in patients undergoing coronary angiography. The research seeks to harness the antioxidant properties of dietary nitrate found in beetroot to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy, a common complication of the pr...

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Origami mysteries could be unfolded in engineering research

Clemson University researcher Suyi Li is investigating how origami can be used to create new materials, including floor pads and building foundations that absorb vibrations in earthquakes. His work could lead to the development of new technologies with a range of applications.

'Memtransistor' brings world closer to brain-like computing

A novel 'memtransistor' device developed by Northwestern University's Mark C. Hersam can process information and store memory like the human brain, potentially revolutionizing computing. The memtransistor combines characteristics of a memristor and transistor, operating with multiple terminals similar to neural networks.

Midwifery linked to better birth outcomes in state-by-state report cards

A new U.S.-wide report card ranks all 50 states on their maternity care quality, revealing a strong connection between midwifery integration and improved birth outcomes. States with high midwifery integration scores tend to have lower rates of premature births, cesarean deliveries, and newborn deaths.

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.

Turn off the telly and get moving

A recent study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis found that prolonged TV viewing increases the risk of venous thromboembolism, a potentially fatal condition. The research, which analyzed data from over 15,000 Americans, suggests that even regular exercise is not enough to offset the risks of sedentary behavior.

UNIST introduces new smart contact lens for diabetics

The new smart contact lens can detect glucose levels in tears using built-in pliable electronics and wireless antenna. It offers a pain-free way to measure blood sugar levels, potentially reducing compliance issues among diabetic patients.

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.

Learning about coronary heart disease from women

A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers identifies a novel biomarker for coronary heart disease in women, oxidized lipids that are not associated with traditional risk factors. Women with the highest levels of this marker are 4 times more likely to develop CHD over several years.

There may be a better way to reduce hospital readmission rates

A recent study suggests that lay-health workers can significantly reduce hospital readmission rates for high-risk patients after surgery. The study found a 47.7% relative reduction in 30-day hospital readmissions and a 56% decrease in odds of being readmitted within 30-days.

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.

Cluedo in the cell: Enzyme location controls enzyme activity

Scientists at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne have created a method for tracking specific enzymes in cell compartments, helping identify their roles in various cancers. The biosensors reveal compartment-specific distributions of bioactive enzymes, which may aid the development of targeted cancer treatments.

Sea-level legacy: more rise for each delay in peaking emissions

A new study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research found that delaying global CO2 emission peak by five years between 2020 and 2035 could result in an additional 20 cm of sea-level rise by 2300. The researchers used a combined climate-sea-level model to analyze the impact of delayed mitigation on global sea-level rise.

Why the boss always gets the blame

Researchers found that social role, not causal influence, determines blame distribution in real life. The study tested this assumption in an online experiment with 209 test participants and found that bosses received more criticism than employees even when they didn't make the decision.