Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive February 2018


Page 2 of 36

Are government controls on indigenous caribou hunting warranted?

A new analysis found that subsistence harvesting by indigenous people has a positive association with caribou numbers, contradicting previous speculation. The study's results suggest that government controls on indigenous caribou hunting may not be necessary and highlight a 'science-policy gap' in U.S. and Canadian governments

Forage-based diets on dairy farms produce nutritionally enhanced milk

Research shows that cows fed a 100% organic grass and legume-based diet produce milk with elevated levels of omega-3 and CLA, improving the fatty acid profile. This results in a near-perfect balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

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.

New data helps explain recent fluctuations in Earth's magnetic field

Researchers gathered ancient clay samples to compile a record of Earth's magnetic field strength over many centuries, revealing the South Atlantic Anomaly is part of a recurring phenomenon. The data suggests that the region under southern Africa may be responsible for recent changes in the global magnetic field.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Growing economies help the detergent industry clean up

The detergent industry is innovating to keep up with evolving market demands as consumers invest in upgraded products. Manufacturers are now considering e-commerce and sustainable packaging options, such as lighter and leak-proof formulations for long-distance shipping.

Astronomers detect ancient signal from first stars in universe.

Researchers using a unique radio antenna detected a clear signal from the earliest stars in the universe, revealing the formation of these massive, blue, and short-lived stars within 180 million years of the Big Bang. The discovery provides new insights into the early universe's mysteries and potential connections to dark matter.

Cancer metastasis: Cell polarity matters

Researchers from DKFZ found that circulating cancer cells exhibit specific polarity, which helps them attach to endothelial cells and migrate into tissues. This discovery may help predict individual risk for metastasis and find therapies to reduce it.

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.

Dyes for 'live' extremophile labeling will help discover life on Mars

Researchers have discovered a fluorescent dye that allows them to observe the life cycle of bacteria in real time, enabling the study of microorganisms in their natural environment. This method will help locate halophiles, ancient salt-loving organisms that thrive in extreme conditions and may hold clues to the origin of life on Earth.

Glowing molecule can reveal live tuberculosis bacteria

Researchers have developed a glowing molecule that can detect live tuberculosis bacteria, offering a quick and simple diagnosis method. The molecule, DMN-Tre, incorporates into the cell membranes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria, allowing for accurate detection in sputum samples.

Breastfeeding may have long-term heart health benefits for some moms

Women who breastfed for six months or more during pregnancy had higher levels of HDL cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and healthier carotid artery thickness compared to those who never breastfed. This suggests breastfeeding may reduce the risk of heart disease in women with normal blood pressure during pregnancy.

The moon formed inside a vaporized Earth synestia

A new explanation for the Moon's origin proposes it formed inside a rapidly spinning, vaporized rock cloud called a synestia. The model resolves several problems in lunar formation and matches the pattern of the Moon's composition.

Aspirin lowers risk of death for patients with diabetes, heart failure

A study found that aspirin reduces mortality in patients with Type 2 diabetes and heart failure, but increases the risk of nonfatal heart attacks and strokes. The research used data from over 12,000 patients and suggested that aspirin may be beneficial for those living longer due to their age.

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.

Missing link found between pathways involved in cell development

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute discovered that SMAD2/3 proteins coordinate unexpected pathways with finely tuned gene expression, allowing cells to switch on and off genes rapidly. This mechanism could be essential for rapid responses in other processes like organ repair or cancer growth.

Firearm injuries drop during NRA conventions, research shows

Researchers at Harvard Medical School found a 20% decline in gun injuries nationwide during the dates of the National Rifle Association's annual convention. The decrease is attributed to a brief period of gun abstinence and the well-trained gun owners attending the meetings.

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.

Soil cannot halt climate change

Scientists at Rothamsted Research have found that modern carbon emissions cannot be locked in the ground to halt global warming. The study analyzed long-term soil data and concluded that even significant increases in soil organic carbon are unrealistic over large areas of the planet.

'Obesity paradox' debunked

Research debunks the 'obesity paradox' by revealing that maintaining a normal weight can postpone cardiovascular disease and reduce overall risk. Normal weight individuals live longer and have a greater proportion of life with cardiovascular disease compared to overweight or obese individuals.

Genital inflammation reduces efficacy of tenofovir gel

A new study found that genital inflammation significantly reduces the effectiveness of tenofovir gel in preventing HIV infection in women. The study showed that tenofovir gel provided only 57% protection against HIV acquisition in women with genital inflammation, even if they used the gel consistently.

New evidence of nuclear fuel releases found at Fukushima

A new study by international researchers has found uranium and other radioactive materials in tiny particles released from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi reactors. These micro-particles could last much longer than previously expected due to their small size, which allows humans to inhale them.

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.

Aqueous storage device needs only 20 seconds to go

Researchers at KAIST developed a hybrid energy storage device that can be charged in less than half a minute using aqueous electrolytes and graphene. The device facilitates rapid charging and high energy density, making it suitable for portable electronic devices.

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.

Getting flu vaccine cuts risk of death by half in people with heart failure

Research analyzed six studies and found that getting the flu vaccine reduced the risk of dying from any cause by about half during flu season and by one-fifth during the rest of the year. Vaccination was also associated with a 22 percent reduction in the risk of being hospitalized for cardiovascular problems.

MSU lands $4.8 million NSF grant to improve corn

Researchers will focus on controlling phenolics, compounds that protect plants from pathogens and adapt to environmental changes. The project aims to decipher the genetic secrets of corn's complex genome, expected to consist of 50,000 genes.

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.

Soccer success study kicks goals

The study found that top-performing soccer teams exhibit greater total sprint distance, possession in the opponent's half, and entry passes in the final third of the field. This suggests that ball possession is a key determinant of success in soccer.

Research directions for 5G and beyond testbeds

Researchers emphasize the importance of international collaboration in developing 5G and beyond technologies. The 5TONIC testbed has brought together companies, universities, and research institutions to test and prototype advanced wireless network systems.

Gluten-free diet may help people with neuropathic pain

A preliminary study found that a strict gluten-free diet may reduce the risk of pain in people with gluten neuropathy, with those on the diet scoring higher on mental health assessments. The study involved 60 participants and showed an association between a self-reported gluten-free diet and less pain.

New graphene laser technique opens door for edible electronics

Scientists have developed a way to write graphene patterns onto virtually any surface, including food, using a new laser technique. This technology could enable edible electronics that track food origin, storage, and safety, as well as detect harmful organisms like E. coli.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

For girls who mature early, psychological problems last into adulthood

A study of nearly 8,000 girls found that those who began menstruating earlier were more prone to depression and antisocial behavior in their late 20s. This suggests that psychological problems can persist for years after adolescence, warranting continued awareness and support from pediatricians.

New TSRI method accelerates studies on carbohydrate biology

The Scripps Research Institute has developed a new method for creating glycan arrays that can be used to study the interactions between glycans and proteins. The breakthrough, published in Nature Communications, uses enzymes naturally produced by cells to create branching glycans.

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.

Seeing nanoscale details in mammalian cells

The new TILT3D microscope produces clear 3-D images of structures and individual molecules within a cell, overcoming existing illumination techniques' limitations. Researchers can track the 3-D movement of molecules over time with high precision, enabling detailed studies of cellular structures.

Beneficial skin bacteria protect against skin cancer

Researchers identified a strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis that produces a chemical compound 6-N-hydroxyaminopurine (6-HAP), which inhibits the growth of some cancers. In mice exposed to UV rays, those with 6-HAP-producing bacteria had significantly reduced skin tumors.

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.

Six decades of cosmology

Narlikar shares personal reminiscences on the evolution of cosmology over six decades, highlighting the increase in confidence in the standard model. However, he also notes that this model lacks independent observational support and an established theoretical base.

More isn't always better when it comes to health care, older Americans say

A new poll of older Americans reveals that many see a mismatch between what they need and what their doctors prescribe. The study suggests improving communication could reduce unnecessary tests, screenings, medications, and procedures. Healthcare providers may have more leeway to deny services that hold little value for certain patients.

Genetics or lifestyle: What is it that shapes our microbiome?

A large-scale study led by the Weizmann Institute of Science found that diet and lifestyle are the primary factors shaping our microbiome composition. The research suggests that understanding these influences may be key to improving health and treating common diseases.

RNA-based therapy cures lung cancer in mouse models

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed an RNA-based therapy that has been shown to cure lung tumors in mice by 40-50 percent. The therapy targets specific long non-coding RNA molecules involved in uncontrolled cell division, which are a key driver of cancer growth.

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.

Why the institution of fatherhood is taking so long to change

In working-class Russian families, conservative stereotypes about men's roles as breadwinners and homemakers prevail. Fathers tend to be emotionally distant, rarely involved in childcare. However, some young fathers are trying to break this mold by showing emotional involvement and equal parenting. This change is slow and often met wit...

Football associated with heart changes, increased cardiovascular risk

Studies reveal that football players face an elevated risk of heart rhythm disorders later in life due to structural changes in the heart. College and professional players showed significant changes in cardiac structure and function, including enlargement of the aortic root and increased systolic blood pressure.

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.

A lithium battery that operates at -70 degrees Celsius, a record low

Researchers in China have developed a battery that can function at -70 degrees Celsius, far colder than traditional lithium-ion batteries. The breakthrough design uses organic compound electrodes with an ester-based electrolyte, enabling it to conduct a charge even at extremely low temperatures.

ECG on smartwatch accurately detects AFib

A new smartwatch ECG can accurately detect atrial fibrillation (AFib) with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. When coupled with physician review, the device can reliably differentiate between AFib and normal heart rhythm.

'Botox' improves appearance of facial scars in reconstructive surgery

A clinical trial found that Botox injections can improve facial surgical scars by producing narrower and flatter scars. The study used a split-scar design, with half of the patient's face treated with Botox and the other half with a placebo, and found significant improvements in scar appearance six months later.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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