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Science News Archive July 2018


Page 21 of 38

Emotional robot lets you feel how it's 'feeling'

A new prototype of a robot has been developed by Cornell University researchers to express emotions through changes in its outer surface. The robot's skin features an array of shapes that map to different emotional states, allowing for more effective social interaction.

Crowdsourcing friendly bacteria helps superbug cause infection

A new study by the University of Sheffield has discovered that antimicrobial resistant pathogens use benign bacteria present in the skin to initiate infection. The study reveals how Staphylococcus aureus can survive immune system mechanisms, providing new avenues for approaches to prevent and treat infection.

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.

AI-based framework creates realistic textures in the virtual world

A new AI-based framework has been developed to create realistic textures in virtual worlds, addressing the challenge of designing complex and believable textures. The tool uses generative adversarial networks (GANs) to train computers to expand small textures into larger ones, resulting in efficient and realistic designs.

Thawing permafrost microbiomes fuel climate change

A University of Queensland-led study links microbial communities and biogeochemistry to rising greenhouse gas emissions from thawing permafrost. The research, using sequencing techniques, identified new microorganisms involved in complex biochemical networks producing greenhouse gases.

Fruit fly mating driven by a tweak in specific brain circuit

A study reveals that small changes in a fruit fly's brain wiring can greatly impact its mating behavior, leading to different responses to the same pheromone. The research suggests that variations in brain circuits may underlie species-specific reactions to specific scents.

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 ALS therapy in clinical trials

Researchers have developed a new ALS therapy that extends survival and reverses signs of neuromuscular damage in mice and rats with SOD1 mutations. The investigational drug, an antisense oligonucleotide, has shown impressive effects in preclinical trials.

Single-celled architects inspire new nanotechnology

Arizona State University scientists create diatom-like nanostructures using DNA origami, improving elasticity and durability. The method has far-reaching applications in optical systems, semiconductor nanolithography, and medical applications.

Body-to-machine interface for drones

A new body-to-machine interface for drones has been developed, enabling users to efficiently operate drones without piloting experience. The interface uses upper-body motions to control drones, showing promise for improved drone operation and accessibility.

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.

Tackling cancer at ground zero with designer molecules

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have designed a new molecule that successfully targets PCNA, a protein essential for DNA replication in rapidly dividing cancer cells. The molecule shows increased potency over existing PCNA inhibitors and is likely to cause fewer side effects.

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.

Electronic stickers to streamline large-scale 'internet of things'

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new fabrication method for tiny electronic circuits that can peel off from a surface, enabling objects to sense their environment or be controlled through stickers. The technology has potential applications in various fields, including the Internet of Things (IoT) and medical devices.

Drivers of cotton pest severity in China

Research in China found reduced insecticide use against bollworm led to increased mirid bug severity, while Bacillus thuringiensis cotton reduced overall pest complex. Climate change may exacerbate this issue, highlighting the need for sustainable management practices.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

How to build efficient organic solar cells

Researchers at Linköping University have formulated design rules to minimize energy losses in organic solar cells, achieving low energy losses and high power conversion efficiencies. The new theory challenges previous beliefs and agrees with experimental results.

New study reveals how foreign kelp surfed to Antarctica

A new study reveals that foreign kelp has drifted 20,000km to reach Antarctica, challenging the long-held notion of the continent's isolation. The discovery sheds light on the science of ocean drift and its implications for climate change.

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.

Aspirin receptor binding and hippocampal plasticity

Researchers used computer modeling to study aspirin-receptor interactions and found that low-dose aspirin treatment activated PPAR-alpha in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. This activation improved hippocampal plasticity and memory, suggesting the therapeutic potential of aspirin in dementia-related illnesses.

Friendlier fish may be quicker to take the bait

Researchers found that caught bluegills spend more time associating with others than uncaught ones. This sociability difference may impact the entire social structure of remaining fish populations.

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.

Gender and NIH funding longevity

A recent study analyzed 34,770 NIH research grantees and found that women who obtain NIH funding stay in the workforce longer, but are less successful at receiving funding for project renewals. The findings suggest a need to encourage women to enter academia and support continued grant submissions.

Technique may improve lung delivery of bacteria-killing phage

A new delivery technique using dry, porous microparticles coated with phages successfully treated pneumonia in infected mice and reduced bacterial levels in cystic fibrosis models. The technique improves the distribution of phages in the lungs and could one day be used to deliver a dry-powder phage via an inhaler.

ASHG honors Mary-Claire King with ASHG Advocacy Award

Mary-Claire King has been recognized by ASHG for her tireless advocacy on using genetics to help people and families worldwide. Her lab has helped reunite 130 families through mtDNA sequencing, and her work with the UN Forensic Anthropology Team has identified victims of extra-judicial execution.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study suggests buried Internet infrastructure at risk as sea levels rise

A new study suggests that thousands of miles of buried fiber optic cable in densely populated coastal regions may be inundated by rising seas within 15 years. The study found that over 4,000 miles of conduit will be underwater and 1,100 traffic hubs will be surrounded by water by 2033, potentially disrupting global communications.

Childhood infections may have lasting effects on school performance

A nationwide study of nearly 600,000 Danish children found that severe childhood infections are associated with lower school achievement in adolescence. Hospitalizations for infections were linked to a 38% reduction in the odds of completing ninth grade, while primary care treatment was unrelated.

Sound waves reveal diamond cache deep in Earth's interior

Researchers found that cratonic roots may contain 1 to 2 percent diamond, with a total estimated value of quadrillion tons. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the rarity of diamond and sheds light on the geological scale of its presence.

Faster photons could enable total data security

The team has generated rapid single-photon light pulses, which cannot be intercepted without disturbing them. This enables secure data transfer using light passed along fibre optic cables, making it ideal for environments where security is paramount.

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.

New study finds folding graphene significantly enhances mechanical performance

Researchers found that folding graphene significantly enhances its mechanical properties, leading to increased stiffness, strength, and toughness in polymer composites. The folded structure can sustain larger bending forces compared to stacked layers, making it an efficient strategy for incorporating large-area monolayer graphene films.

Expert panel compares opioid epidemic to early days of HIV epidemic

An expert panel has identified parallels between the current opioid epidemic and the early days of the HIV epidemic. The panel recommends five crucial steps for clinicians treating patients affected by opioid addiction and these intersecting infections, including increasing access to addiction care and developing hospital-based protocols.

Routine, coordinated treatment of opioid abuse can stem national epidemic

Oregon Health & Science University researchers recommend routinely screening and treating patients for opioid abuse when they come to clinics and hospitals seeking other services. This approach can save lives and turn around the national opioid epidemic by addressing opioid use disorder as a chronic medical condition.

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.

Reading rivers

A study led by Tamara Pico from Harvard University estimates how glaciers moved by analyzing the weight of the ice sheet's impact on topography and river course. The researchers used a model that connects the growth of the ice sheet with changes in the Hudson River's direction, potentially offering new insights into glacier growth.

Study: Journalists view co-workers as more ethical than peers

Researchers found that American journalists tend to trust the actions of their co-workers more than those from other news outlets, and believe they act unethically less frequently. The study's findings suggest ways for newsrooms and writers to improve ethical actions.

Keeping kidney stones at bay during space flights

A new procedure harnessing ultrasound technology to reposition kidney stones is being tested in emergency patients at UW Medicine's Harborview Medical Center and University Center. The approach could benefit astronauts as well as Earth-side patients, providing quick relief and avoiding unnecessary pain medications.

Sticking with the wrong choice

Researchers discovered that mice, rats, and humans all exhibit the sunk cost fallacy, preferring to continue with a choice despite clear evidence of a better alternative. The study used economic games to test species' willingness to wait for rewards, finding that all three groups became more reluctant to quit as time passed.

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.

Yale researchers identify target for novel malaria vaccine

Researchers have identified a critical protein produced by malaria parasites that can be targeted to elicit protection against re-infection. The vaccine, which targets the protein PMIF, has shown promise in mouse models and could potentially prevent transmission of the disease.

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.

Deaths from cardiovascular disease rising in India, study finds

A nationally representative study found that cardiovascular mortality rates increased rapidly in rural India and surpassed urban areas between 2000 and 2015. Younger adults, particularly those born after 1970, are at the highest risk of death due to heart problems caused by narrowing of the heart's arteries.

By sending tests in the mail, researchers boost colorectal cancer screening

A study at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that mailing colorectal cancer screening tests to patients insured by Medicaid increased screening rates for this population. The project resulted in a nearly 9 percentage point increase in screening rates compared to patients who just received a reminder.

Testosterone research brings new hope for cancer patients

Researchers at Texas A&M University found that testosterone treatment can help combat cachexia, a syndrome characterized by rapid or severe loss of fat and skeletal muscle, in cancer patients. Patients treated with testosterone maintained total body mass and increased lean body mass, allowing them to perform daily activities more easily.

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.

Protecting ribosome genes to prevent aging

Scientists have identified a protein called SIRT7 that protects cells against senescence by keeping certain genes turned off. This function is crucial for preventing age-related deterioration and could lead to therapies targeting cellular senescence.

The love lives of fruit flies

Research at Harvard Medical School reveals that fruit fly courtship is influenced by the convergence of motivation, perception, and chance. The study found that dopamine levels play a crucial role in directing courtship behavior, with high levels leading to persistent pursuit.

Researchers trace Parkinson's damage in the heart

A new method tracks mechanisms causing nerve cell damage in the heart, a previously unappreciated area affected by Parkinson's disease. The research has implications for testing therapies and exploring causes of fatigue, fainting, and falling.

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.

The secret sulfate code that lets the bad Tau in

Scientists have discovered a specific sulfate pattern on the cell's surface that allows misfolded tau protein to enter cells, leading to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Understanding this process could lead to new therapies to halt disease progression.