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Science News Archive January 2018


Page 14 of 37

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.

How cells are able to turn

Researchers have demonstrated that cells navigate using molecular force from within, enabling them to turn and potentially leading to the development of new drugs. This discovery was made possible by the study of integrins, which are essential for cell interactions.

Study examines differences in hip fracture rates among nursing homes

A nationally representative study found considerable variation in US nursing home hip fracture rates among facilities. The majority of the variation remained unexplained by measured characteristics, but psychotropic medication prescribing and staffing requirements emerged as plausible targets for initiatives to reduce hip fractures.

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.

TU Wien develops new semiconductor processing technology

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a method to manufacture porous silicon carbide structures with controlled porosity, opening up new possibilities for sensor technology, optical components, and biological applications. The technique allows for the creation of micro- and nanostructures with unique properties.

A new approach to rechargeable batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a new approach to rechargeable batteries using a metal-mesh membrane, which overcomes the limitations of previous ceramic membranes and enables cost-effective power storage for large-scale installations.

Engineers design artificial synapse for 'brain-on-a-chip' hardware

Researchers at MIT have designed an artificial synapse that can precisely control the strength of an electric current flowing across it, similar to the way ions flow between neurons. The team found that their chip and its synapses could recognize samples of handwriting with 95% accuracy.

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.

The role of cranial modification in identity formation

A bioarchaeological study of cranial modification practices in the Colca Valley found a significant increase in prevalence over time, with oblique modification becoming predominant. This suggests that modification contributed to the creation of a new collective identity and reinforced social inequality.

New long-acting approach for malaria therapy developed

A new 'long acting' medicine has been developed to prevent malaria using nanotechnology, providing therapeutic drug concentrations for months after a single dose. This innovation aims to remove the need for daily tablets and could provide an additional tool in combating malaria globally.

Inverse-design approach leads to metadevices

The Northwestern University team developed highly efficient metadevices at millimeter-wave frequencies using inverse design principles and 3D printing. This approach starts with a function and asks what structure is needed to achieve the desired result, producing unexpected outcomes like broad bandwidth functionality.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers reveal how microbes cope in phosphorus-deficient tropical soil

A team of researchers from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory has discovered how microorganisms adapt to survive in phosphorus-poor environments. By analyzing genes and proteins, they found an increase in phosphorus-acquiring enzymes and a large number of genes that break down complex organic compounds like phytate.

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.

The ins and outs of Area 25

Neuroscientists have created a detailed map of the connections in the subgenual cingulate area 25 (A25) of non-human primates. The research reveals strong links between A25 and brain areas involved in emotional regulation, stress response, and memory formation.

A better HIV test

A new test developed by Stanford chemists combines the convenience of spitting in a cup with the reliability of blood tests to detect HIV infections earlier. The test was shown to correctly diagnose 22 people and demonstrate improved sensitivity compared to existing saliva tests.

Combined nutrients and warming massively increase methane emissions from lakes

Shallow lakes in agricultural landscapes will emit significantly greater amounts of methane due to the combination of warming and nutrient enrichment. Methane ebullition increases by up to 17-fold with high nutrient levels, highlighting the need for managing agricultural landscapes to minimize this potent greenhouse gas emission.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Humidity, snowpack, and climate warming

Research across 462 sites in the western US found that winter snow melt increased with rising winter temperature in humid areas, but not in arid Southwest regions. In these areas, spring snow melt occurred earlier as temperatures rose.

Snow formation via cloud seeding

Cloud seeding with silver iodide resulted in the formation of ice crystals within 30 minutes, which grew up to 1 mm in diameter and eventually became precipitation as snow. The study provides valuable insights into the process of snow formation via cloud seeding, paving the way for further research.

New fuel cell technology runs on solid carbon

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have developed a new fuel cell technology powered by solid carbon, which can utilize three times as much carbon as earlier designs. The innovation enables lower temperatures and higher power densities, making it potentially more efficient than conventional hydrogen fuel cells.

Discrepancies between satellite and global model estimates of land water storage

Research found discrepancies between satellite and global model estimates of land water storage in 186 river basins worldwide. GRACE satellites measured changes in water storage, which differed from simulations made by seven commonly used models. The study highlights the need for improved regional assessments to ensure accurate water a...

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Biological motion processing, genetics, and autism

Studies examined point-light displays of biological motion in twins, revealing individual variation tied to genetic factors; participants with higher autistic traits showed impaired local BM processing. A shared genetic basis may underlie both perception and autistic characteristics.

Study may improve strategies for reducing nutrient runoff into Mississippi River

A new study examines nutrient loss reduction strategies from three upper Midwestern states and finds promise in certain practices like cover crops and bioreactors. The researchers also assess the trackability and stackability of these practices, which will aid decision makers in choosing specific conservation practices to adopt or avoid.

Scientists discover material ideal for smart photovoltaic windows

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a thermochromic material that works as both transparent and non-transparent, producing electricity when darkened. The material's reversible phase transition enables it to switch between these states without degrading its electronic properties.

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.

Ancient rice heralds a new future for rice production

Wild Australian rice's unique genetics hold the key to improving drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutritional benefits in commercial rice production. The study reveals that northern Australia's wild rices contain valuable genetic diversity closely related to domesticated rice, which can be cross-bred for improved crop resilience.

Direct patient care experience necessary for better transgender care

A new medical school elective at Boston University School of Medicine combines standard education with direct patient care experience to increase confidence and improve care outcomes for transgender patients. Students reported significant increases in comfort and knowledge after participating in the elective.

Pathway opens to minimize waste in solar energy capture

Researchers have discovered a way to minimize waste in solar energy capture by designing materials that can harness previously wasted light. This breakthrough could push solar cell efficiency beyond 30%, addressing limitations of silicon-based solar cells.

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.

Siberian scientists learned how to reduce harmful emissions from HPPs

Researchers at Siberian Federal University have developed a new method for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions in heat power plants (HPPs). By modeling the process of coal burning and testing different fuels, they found that mechanically activated fuel can reduce Nox emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional coal. This technology ha...

Making fuel cells for a fraction of the cost

Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have created a new, highly efficient catalyst material that could significantly reduce the cost of producing fuel cells. The material, made from porous carbon nanofibers embedded with cobalt, outperforms industry-standard platinum-carbon systems but at a fraction of the cost.

Astronomers produce first detailed images of surface of giant star

Researchers have produced the first detailed images of a giant star outside our solar system, showcasing a nearly circular atmosphere with complex convection cells. The study confirms theories about the characteristics of these stars, providing insight into their future activity and appearance.

Cutting edge technology reveals how to dig

A study published in HortTechnology has found that bad posture can increase loads by 50% on the lower back and double on the shoulders, leaving people susceptible to chronic injuries. The researchers used 3D optical tracking equipment to analyze the movement of gardeners undertaking routine tasks.

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.

Modeling trends in global water storage

Researchers compared global water storage trends from 2002-2014 using GRACE satellite data and seven hydrology models. The study found that model projections of climate and human-induced changes are likely underestimates.

Origin of hominids' reproductive success

Researchers found that human neurochemical profiles are consistent with enhanced sensitivity to social cues, promoting monogamy and reducing within-group aggression. Elevated serotonin and neuropeptide Y levels may have encouraged male provisioning, while a dopamine-dominated striatum could have led to increased brain size and language.

Swansea University research helps break ground to clean up land

Researchers at Swansea University have discovered patterns in soil fractures that could speed up the decontamination of industrial brownfield sites. The technique uses fracturing to generate high-conductivity pathways for fluid exchange, reducing cleaning time and cost.

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.

Scientists achieve high power with new smaller laser

Researchers successfully produced a high-powered, randomly polarized laser beam using a 'Q switch' laser, which typically emits brief pulses of light. This breakthrough expands the potential applications of smaller and more powerful lasers in various fields.

Brown University researchers aim to store data in molecules

Researchers at Brown University aim to store billions of terabytes of data in a single flask of liquid using synthetic molecules. The project, backed by a $4.1 million DARPA award, has the potential to enable computation through chemical reactions and improve information densities.

Vaccines not protecting farmed fish from disease

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers found that vaccines used by commercial fish farmers are not protecting fish from disease, with vaccinated fish showing more symptoms and higher death rates. The study highlights the need for veterinary pharmaceutical companies to redesign and test vaccines tailored to fish immune systems.

Rutgers scientists discover 'Legos of life'

Researchers identified four fundamental building blocks for all proteins, which can be stacked together to form energy-rich molecules available to humans and other living organisms. The discovery could lead to applications in biomedical engineering, therapeutic proteins, and industrial catalysts.

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.

Transportable laser

PTB physicists have developed a frequency-doubling unit that can endure transportation and maintain accuracy. The unit is based on a highly stable monolithic enhancement cavity for second harmonic generation, enabling reliable laser light for quantum-optical experiments.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Persistent photoconductivity used to stimulate neurotypic cells

Researchers have used a material's persistent photoconductivity to stimulate PC12 neurotypic cells, demonstrating a faster and noninvasive way to influence cellular behavior. The technique, which was shown to increase calcium ion levels within the cells, has the potential to advance research on cellular behavior.

Predicting seasonal snowpack

Researchers used global climate models to predict March US snowpack based on July 1 conditions, outperforming statistical predictions. This approach could improve water management and hazard preparedness.

The scent of the city

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck used a sophisticated measurement method to create a chemical fingerprint of urban VOC emission sources. The study found that emissions from cosmetics, detergents, and food preparation contribute significantly to the total VOC burden, with some compounds leaving characteristic 'scent' in the air.

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.

Artificial intelligence predicts corruption

Researchers created a computer model using neural networks to predict areas prone to corruption, finding that longer government terms and certain economic variables increase the likelihood. The study aims to contribute to anti-corruption efforts by targeting high-risk regions.

BU: Young men who have sex with men receive less HIV education

A new study published in LGBT Health found that young men who have sex with men are less likely to receive school-based HIV education than their female-only sex partners. The study associated HIV education with reduced sexual risk behaviors, particularly among young MSM.