Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive July 2018


Page 35 of 38

A bright and vibrant future for seismology

Researchers at GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences have developed a new method using fiber-optic cables to detect earthquakes and other ground movements. The technique reveals structural features in the underground with unprecedented resolution, outperforming existing seismological networks worldwide.

Spearfishing makes fishes more timid

Researchers found that fish adjust their escape behavior and keep a safe distance outside the shooting range when a speargun is present. The level of timidity varies depending on the size of the fish, type of diver, and location within protected areas.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New clues to sepsis may speed diagnosis

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found a potential link between microRNAs and sepsis, identifying two molecules that silence inflammatory gene expression. These biomarkers could help diagnose patients at risk of organ failure and death, allowing for faster treatment and potentially saving lives.

Personality pressure

A new study by Harvard University researchers suggests that natural selection can favor different personality types in lizards, affecting their behavior and survival. In the experiment, bold lizards were found to survive longer when predators were present, but their mortality increased when predators were absent.

Testosterone causes men to desire luxury goods

Researchers discovered that men with higher levels of testosterone have a stronger preference for luxury brands, such as Calvin Klein jeans over Levi's. This is because testosterone promotes behaviors associated with status-seeking and status-protecting, similar to animal behaviors like aggression.

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 tools used to identify childhood cancer genes

A new computational strategy using Bayesian analysis and CRISPR/Cas9 screening technology has identified 29 genetic changes contributing to rhabdomyosarcoma, a common childhood cancer. The study suggests potential treatments for the disease and provides a general approach for identifying oncogenic drivers in other cancers.

More than 8 million babies born from IVF since the world's first in 1978

Since the world's first test-tube baby was born in 1978, over 8 million babies have been conceived through IVF, with a record 157,449 babies born in Europe in 2015. European pregnancy rates for IVF and ICSI have stabilized at around 36%, while egg donation treatments have seen significant rises, with pregnancy rates now at about 50%.

NASA's NuSTAR mission proves superstar Eta Carinae shoots cosmic rays

The study using data from NASA's NuSTAR space telescope reveals that Eta Carinae accelerates particles to high energies, some of which may reach Earth as cosmic rays. The team's analysis suggests that the accelerated electrons and other particles are ejected in violent shock waves along the boundary of the colliding stellar winds.

Study shows where brain transforms seeing into acting

A new study at MIT's Picower Institute found that the posterior parietal cortex plays a crucial role in converting vision into action. The research team identified specific neurons in this region that respond to visual patterns and motor actions, suggesting a key link between seeing and acting.

Smarter, safer bridges with Sandia sensors

Researchers equip a US bridge with sensors that can detect cracks and alert maintenance engineers, increasing supervision of critical areas and extending structure lifetimes. The system uses Comparative Vacuum Monitoring sensors that can detect tiny cracks smaller than the thickness of a dime.

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.

Spraying efficiently: Breaking up is hard to do

By modeling the breakup of an oscillating stream of liquid, researchers have gleaned a better understanding of how sprays form. The study found that an oscillating stream breaks into a wider spray of finer droplets than a straight jet, improving fuel-air mixing efficiency.

Can citizen science reverse the extinction of experience?

A study suggests that nature-based citizen science can reverse the 'extinction of experience' by fostering cognitive and emotional connections to nature. Citizen science programs increase participants' knowledge, skills, interest in and curiosity about nature, leading to positive behavioral changes.

When oil and water mix

A new paper by Daniel J. Soeder and Douglas B. Kent summarizes the environmental impacts of shale development, providing a balanced understanding of fracking's merits and demerits. The study addresses various potential impacts of fracking, offering insights for non-geoscientists and experts alike.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Feeling young could mean your brain is aging more slowly

Researchers found that elderly people who feel younger than their age show fewer signs of brain aging and have increased gray matter volume in key brain regions. This suggests that caring for brain health may be important for those who feel older than their age.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The impact of the sugar tax in Chile: A bittersweet success?

A new study reveals that Chile's sugar tax led to a significant decrease in the purchase volume of sugary soft drinks, particularly among high socioeconomic groups. However, the reduction was statistically insignificant for low-income groups, suggesting that further evaluations are needed to address socioeconomic inequalities.

Testosterone increases men's preference for status goods

A study published in Nature Communications found that testosterone increases men's preference for luxury products associated with high social status, rather than power or quality. The research team tested 243 male participants and found a causal link between testosterone levels and increased liking for status-enhancing goods.

New insight into the maturation of miRNAs

A research team has used an integrated structural biological approach to elucidate the maturation of a cancer-causing microRNA in gene regulation. Understanding this process may help develop new therapies for cancer treatment.

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.

Infrared NASA image reveals Hurricane Fabio's power

Hurricane Fabio's cloud top temperatures reached as low as minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating strong storm capabilities. The storm is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane later in the forecast period.

A promising new tool to measure antibodies against malaria

A new quantitative suspension array assay (qSAT) has been developed to measure antibodies against multiple Plasmodium falciparum proteins, simplifying sero-epidemiological studies and vaccine development. The assay is highly sensitive and specific, allowing for detailed analysis of natural and vaccine-induced antibody responses.

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.

Self-healing seed pods

Researchers discovered a self-sealing mechanism in the seed pods of Banksia plants, where special waxes melt at 45-55°C to seal small cracks. This adaptation protects seeds from environmental challenges, such as moisture and pathogens, and may have potential applications for dimensionally stable wood.

Creating room to breathe on the microscale

A new microfluidics technique has been developed to construct microchannels with efficient gas exchange, potentially delivering nearly a third of the oxygen needed by preterm newborns. The design uses both sides of the membrane for gas exchange and is more effective than previous single-sided counterparts.

Chemical Science features stunning artwork from John Keith's lab

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh developed a new approach to model complex chemical reactions, enabling better understanding of fundamental reactions and their impact on chemical engineering. PhD student Yasemin Basdogan created an artistic depiction of the research for the journal cover.

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.

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.

Rising sea levels could cost the world $14 trillion a year by 2100

A new study warns that failure to meet the 2°C warming limit will lead to sea level rise and dire global economic consequences. The researchers found that upper-middle income countries like China will see the largest increase in flood costs, while high-income countries will suffer the least.

When there is no one around

Researchers found that individuals with more mature personalities view solitude positively, using it for creative activities. In contrast, those with less developed egos tend to avoid solitude and feel lonely.

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.

Study: Fungi and bacteria grow on body implants

Researchers found over 70% of implants colonized by bacteria, fungi, or both, without causing infections. The discovery opens up a new field of understanding the interplay between the body and microbiomes.

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.

In a warming world, could air conditioning make things worse?

A new study forecasts up to 1,000 additional deaths annually in the Eastern US due to elevated air pollution from increased air conditioning use. The study suggests transitioning to clean energy sources like wind and solar power to mitigate these effects.

AOSSM presents prestigious research awards and grants

The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) presents annual research awards and grants to support innovative research initiatives. This year, more than $300,000 was awarded to support projects in osteoarthritis, sports medicine research, and education.

Ancestral people of Chaco Canyon likely grew their own food

Researchers found the sandy soils in Chaco Canyon were suitable for agriculture, suggesting the ancestral Puebloans were self-sufficient. The most significant challenge was irrigation, where they demonstrated adroit farming skills and land management.

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.

How good bacteria can help keep a gut healthy

Research reveals that good bacteria interact with epithelial cells and immune system cells to balance immune responses and protect the gut from inflammation. Manipulating the microbiota may offer therapeutic benefits for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.

Sylvester researcher uses HPV vaccine to treat patient with skin cancer

Researchers from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine used an HPV vaccine as an off-label treatment for a patient with advanced squamous cell carcinoma. The patient's tumors completely resolved after direct intratumoral injections, providing promising results in this innovative approach to skin cancer treatment.

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.

UH Cancer Center renews NCI designation

The University of Hawai'i Cancer Center has been awarded a $6 million Cancer Center Support Grant to fund research at the Center. The renewal of its National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation recognizes the Center's unique contributions to cancer research and care in Hawaii, particularly for diverse ethnic populations.

Study finds new genomic regions associated to weight gain in Nelore cattle

A Brazilian research project has identified six genomic regions linked to weight gain in Nelore cattle, a breed adapted to tropical climates. The study, led by Diercles Cardoso, used DNA analysis to pinpoint genes associated with growth and weight gain, offering potential for improvement of the breed's food efficiency.

A novel switch to control genome editing

Researchers at University of Bath and Cardiff University have developed a novel switch to control genome editing, enabling reliable protein expression on demand. The switch uses a cheap, non-toxic amino acid as the control mechanism, addressing concerns over antibiotic resistance and 'leakiness'.

Neuroscientists uncover secret to intelligence in parrots

Researchers discovered a neural circuit in parrots that may underlie their intelligence, similar to the pontine nuclei found in primates. The medial spiriform nucleus, located in birds, is comparable in function to the pontine nuclei and plays a key role in higher-order processing and sophisticated behaviors.