Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive June 2018


Page 20 of 40

Scientists discover how to control the 'excitation' of electronics

Researchers have successfully controlled excitonic effects in two-dimensional van der Waals heterostructures, a crucial step towards creating electronics with more controlled properties. The breakthrough allows for the creation of unique new materials for solar panels and electronics.

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.

Sounding rocket takes a second look at the sun

To correct for degradation, NASA launches calibration sounding rockets carrying a copy of the EVE instrument to approximately 180 miles above Earth. These measurements are compared to those from the degraded satellite, allowing Woods' team to correct for discrepancies and maintain accurate EUV light measurements.

New ID pictures of conducting polymers discover a surprise ABBA fan

Conjugated polymers have been studied for their electrical conductivity, but determining their structure was challenging. A new technique developed by the University of Warwick has produced high-resolution images of their structure, revealing gaps and defects in an ABBA pattern.

Squeezing light at the nanoscale

Researchers developed a new technique to generate an intense, nanoscale antenna that can detect single biomolecules by harnessing polaritons. The antennas concentrate light in small volumes, increasing its intensity and creating optical fields strong enough to exert force on nearby particles.

Protein analysis may reveal new cancer treatment targets

Researchers have used mass spectrometry to study proteins expressed by human cancer cells, identifying new potential therapeutic options for patients with exhausted clinical options. The advance allows for the quantitation of thousands of tumour proteins over several hours.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Primates in peril

The study highlights the devastating impact of human activities on primate populations, with up to 78% decline in their habitats by the end of the century. The authors recommend extending protected areas, reforestation, and promoting sustainable farming practices to conserve primates.

When can ads intensify unhealthy cravings?

Holistic thinking patterns can make consumers more susceptible to advertisements for unhealthy foods. In experiments, holistic thinkers showed increased cravings and desire to buy unhealthy food options when viewed with context. Researchers hope their findings can inform strategies to help countries battling obesity epidemics.

New method makes weather forecasts right as rain

Researchers from the University of Missouri developed a system that improves rainfall forecast accuracy by considering evaporation. This method uses dual-polarization radar to track raindrops and a model assessing atmospheric humidity, resulting in more accurate forecasts for locations 30 miles or more from National Weather Service radar.

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.

Orange, tea tree & eucalyptus oils sweeten diesel fumes

Researchers create a blend of essential oil and diesel to reduce emissions by 10%, while increasing fuel consumption slightly. The study found that the combination could be used in agricultural vehicles, potentially replacing all-diesel fuels.

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.

MXene's tour de force

Researchers at Drexel University have found MXene to be the strongest material of its kind, with a high elastic modulus. The material's durability and strength make it suitable for applications such as composite materials, protective coatings, and membranes.

UMass Amherst to study changes in arctic rain/snow regimes

Researchers will study lake sediments in western Svalbard to identify sedimentary signatures of recent changes, potentially leading to more flash flooding and landslides. The study aims to provide a long-term perspective on modern climate conditions and their effects on the region.

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.

When muscles weaken with age

Researchers discover a causal relationship between inflammatory responses in aging nerves and degenerative aging processes. The team found that reducing macrophage activity improves nerve structure and function, increasing mobility and quality of life for those affected by age-related muscle weakness.

Researchers find combination can enhance ipilimumab immunotherapy

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that a combination of ipilimumab and CPI-1205 enhances T cell responses, tumor rejection, and survival in cancer patients. Elevated EZH2 levels in T cells suppress immune activity, but inhibition of EZH2 improves effector T cell function.

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.

Meat sensitivity spread by ticks linked to heart disease

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have discovered a link between sensitivity to an allergen in red meat and increased plaque buildup in heart arteries. This allergy, spread by tick bites, may increase the risk of heart attacks and stroke, highlighting the need for further clinical studies.

What are rates of Legionnaires disease among VA patients?

The study found that rates of Legionnaires disease among VA patients with overnight stays decreased from 2014 to 2016, while overall rates increased. 91% of the cases had no VA exposure or only outpatient-VA exposure, and the rate for those with overnight stays significantly decreased.

Volcano music could help scientists monitor eruptions

A study found that a volcano's geometry impacts its sound waves, allowing scientists to better monitor activity and detect changes. Researchers believe listening to Kilauea's infrasound could help forecast potential eruptive hazards.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Loving the sweet enemy

Research found that foods high in both fats and carbohydrates stimulate the brain's reward system more strongly than other calorie sources. This intensified effect is consistent with game results, suggesting that our brains prefer these types of foods due to evolutionary pressures.

NASA's Aqua satellite sees Tropical Depression Gaemi exit Taiwan

NASA's Aqua satellite captured a visible image of Tropical Depression Gaemi as it moved through Taiwan and into the Northwestern Pacific Ocean on June 15. The storm appeared elongated after passing over Taiwan, with strongest thunderstorms northeast of its center.

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.

Laser-sonic scanner aims to replace mammograms for finding breast cancer

A new laser-sonic scanner developed by Caltech researchers can detect tumors in the breast in just 15 seconds, providing higher-resolution images than traditional mammography. The technology uses near-infrared light to create detailed images of internal structures without exposing patients to X-ray radiation or discomfort.

Scientists predict a new superhard material with unique properties

Researchers have discovered a new tungsten boride that surpasses the widely used 'pobedit' material in terms of hardness and fracture toughness. The new compound, WB5, can be synthesized at normal pressure and has potential applications in various fields including drilling and machine building.

To share or not to share?

Research suggests that children's tendency to share is linked to their social status in the classroom, with those having few interaction partners tending to be more generous. Higher levels of prenatal testosterone are associated with a 'masculinisation effect' leading to less sharing.

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.

Screening for aortic aneurysms in older men questioned

A study published in The Lancet questions the effectiveness of screening programs for abdominal aortic aneurysms in older men, citing the potential for over-diagnosis and unnecessary treatment. The research suggests that the benefits of screening may not outweigh the harms, particularly with decreasing disease incidence.

Quality of diet still poor for SNAP participants

A new study finds persistent disparities in diet quality for SNAP recipients, with lower consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish/shellfish. Despite some improvements over time, SNAP participants still have the lowest diet quality compared to income-eligible nonparticipants and higher-income individuals.

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.

Blood biomarkers as a diagnostic tool for obstructive sleep apnea

A study published in Nature and Science of Sleep found that concurrent elevations of haemoglobin A1c, C-reactive protein, and erythropoietin in the blood may indicate obstructive sleep apnea. These biomarkers proved superior to standard screening methods, particularly in non-obese males.

Diet quality among adults in SNAP food assistance program

A study of 38,696 adults found that SNAP recipients showed less improvement in diet quality over time compared to those who did not participate in the program. The findings suggest that disparities in diet quality persisted or worsened for SNAP participants for most dietary components.

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.

Brain matures faster due to childhood stress

A long-term study found that early childhood stress leads to faster brain maturation in adolescence, while late-life stress has the opposite effect. This accelerated maturation process may limit the brain's ability to adapt to its environment.

Gout in the elderly linked to higher risk of dementia

A study of over 1.23 million Medicare beneficiaries found a significant association between gout and increased risk of dementia in the elderly. Gout was linked to a 17-20% higher risk of dementia, with the risk being highest in older age groups, females, and people with comorbidities.

QUT to put grass pollen research to Swiss nanotech

Researchers at QUT have developed a new grass pollen allergy test using Swiss nanotechnology, which can quickly identify individuals at risk of allergic diseases. The test, supported by the National Foundation for Medical Research and Innovation, uses a finger prick blood sample and provides results within 15 minutes.

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.

Electronic skin stretched to new limits

A composite hydrogel and MXene material offers unparalleled stretchability, self-healing, and strain sensitivity, opening doors to innovative applications such as wearable electronics, biodegradable patches, and biosensing technologies.

Non-coding DNA changes sex determination

Researchers have identified a critical non-coding DNA element regulating the Sox9 gene, crucial for male sex development. Deleting this enhancer results in sex reversal in mice, shedding light on the genetic mechanisms underlying sex determination and potentially improving diagnosis for patients with differences in sex development.

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.