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Science News Archive March 2018


Page 6 of 41

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.

Future electric cars could recharge wirelessly while you drive

University of Colorado Boulder engineers are developing a proof of concept for wireless power transfer that can transmit electrical energy through electric fields at high frequencies. This technology has the potential to enable electric vehicles to charge on the go, reducing the need for frequent charging stations and increasing drivin...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

From lullabies to live concerts: How music and rhythm shape our social brains

Research finds that lullabies soothe both mothers and babies simultaneously, while playful songs increase babies' attention and displays of positive emotion toward their mothers. Live concerts also trigger neural synchronization, creating a sense of community among concert-goers. These findings shed light on the universal power of musi...

Putting quantum scientists in the driver's seat

Researchers at ORNL's Quantum Information Science Group have developed methods to control dissipative behavior in quantum systems, allowing for advancements in quantum computing and sensing. The studies aim to probe and control quantum coherent dynamics in materials at the nanoscale.

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.

High doses of antiviral drug may be effective against Ebola

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that high doses of antiviral drug favipiravir extended survival in non-human primates infected with Ebola virus. The drug was shown to inhibit viral replication in a drug concentration-dependent manner, with animals treated at higher doses surviving longer than those treated at lower doses.

Antibiotic use increases risk of severe viral disease in mice

A study found that antibiotic use can increase the risk of severe West Nile disease in mice by weakening their immune response. The research suggests that antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, making it harder for the body to fight off viral infections.

Hunting turns bear cubs into mama's boys (and girls)

Research shows that human hunting has changed the relationship between mother bears and their cubs, causing mothers to stay with them for an additional year. This shift is attributed to the increased killing of females without cubs, forcing them to prioritize cub survival over reproductive efforts.

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.

How do snakes eat live crabs? By being finicky diners

Three Asian water snake species use varying approaches to capture soft-shelled crabs, including Gerarda, which rips them into bite-sized pieces, and Fordonia, which targets tiny hard-shelled crabs. These adaptations enable the snakes to overcome prey size limitations.

Tackling adherence to treatment on several fronts

A clinical trial, TAKE-IT, combines electronic medication monitoring and coaching to encourage adherence behavior in adolescent kidney transplant recipients. The study shows a 66% higher adherence rate among participants who used the digital health medication management solution with coaching.

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.

Paper-folding art inspires better bandages

MIT engineers create kirigami-patterned adhesive films that stick to highly deformable regions of the body, such as knees and elbows, and maintain their hold even after 100 bending cycles. The films' slits open at the center of bending, releasing tension and improving grip.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Strategic expression

A psychology professor's new paper suggests that facial expressions are used to achieve specific social outcomes, rather than revealing emotions. The study finds that certain expressions serve as 'social tools' in behavioral negotiation, and can be used to subdue or intimidate others.

New microsensor enables kidney dialysis to be customized

Researchers have developed a microsensor that can monitor and adjust the composition of kidney dialysis fluid in real-time, potentially alleviating serious side effects. The microsensor, made by Eindhoven University of Technology, measures sodium concentrations accurately and live.

Accurately identifying aggressive head and neck cancers

A research team at Case Western Reserve University is developing an AI-powered tool to analyze computerized images of tissue samples for patterns that can predict the risk of recurrence in oropharyngeal cancers. This could lead to more personalized treatment approaches for patients with these aggressive 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.

Abnormal brain connections seen in preschoolers with autism

Researchers found abnormal brain connectivity in preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder, which may underlie the disorder's abnormal development and contribute to its mechanisms. The study suggests that these altered patterns could be used as potential imaging biomarkers for early diagnosis.

Kent physiotherapist contributes to guidelines for knee cartilage treatment

A University of Kent physiotherapist contributed to updated international guidelines for managing meniscal and articular cartilage lesions. The guidelines include new recommendations for physical therapy management after knee cartilage surgery, aiming to improve patient outcomes and return to previous activities.

UMN Medical School study uncovers new findings on antimicrobial drug synergy

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School discovered an unrecognized cyclic pathway structure within the folate biosynthesis pathway, allowing each drug to enhance the activity of the other. This new mechanism has the potential to open doors for identification of other synergistic drug combinations.

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.

Marijuana may lead non-smokers to cigarettes

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that cannabis use is associated with an increased initiation of cigarette smoking among non-cigarette smokers. Additionally, adults who smoke cigarettes and use cannabis are less likely to quit smoking than those who do not use cannabis.

Surgeons transform static 'Mona Lisa' smiles to joyous ones

Johns Hopkins surgeons develop a modified muscle transplant operation that restores wide and even smiles to selected patients with one-sided facial muscle paralysis. The procedure, published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, shows improvements in smile function, gum exposure, and eye wrinkles.

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.

Prosthetic memory system successful in humans, study finds

Researchers successfully implemented a prosthetic system that utilizes individual brain cell patterns to enhance memory encoding and recall. In a pilot study, participants showed significant improvements in episodic memory performance, with the most notable gain observed when stimulated with correct-answer codes.

Treating menopause symptoms reduces abdominal fat tissue

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that menopausal hormone therapy users tend to have less abdominal fat tissue than other menopausal women. The protective effect disappeared rapidly after treatment stopped.

The clouds of spaghetti that keep DNA data safe

Researchers discovered a unique mechanism involving intrinsically disordered polypeptides in nuclear pore complexes that enable rapid recognition and binding of transport factors. This 'fuzzy' interaction allows for specific and speedy cell signaling, preventing DNA data breaches by viruses or faulty functioning.

USDA invests in research on environmental benefits of woody fruit, nut crops

The USDA is funding a four-year research project to investigate the environmental benefits of woody polyculture systems for crop production. Led by University of Illinois scientists, the study aims to compare different farming practices and estimate their impact on soil health, insect diversity, pollination, and carbon sequestration.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

CMU neuroscience and engineering team receives Chuck Noll Foundation grant

A Carnegie Mellon University team has received a three-year grant to refine a custom EEG system that can identify early markers for worsening brain injuries. The team will use the high-density EEG to detect cortical spreading depolarizations, or brain tsunamis, which are biomarkers for worsening brain injuries.

Molecular prison forces diatomic inmates to cell floor

A team of researchers has observed unexpected rotational motion of hydrogen molecules within a molecular cage, which could lead to breakthroughs in hydrogen storage materials. The study provides fundamental insights into the behavior of quantum-influenced particles trapped in well-defined spaces.

Exploring the thermoelectric properties of tin selenide nanostructures

The study explores the thermoelectric properties of nanometer-thick tin selenide crafted in thin films of connected 'nanoflakes', achieving a significant power factor improvement through doping with silver. This material has potential for miniaturized, environmentally friendly, low-cost thermoelectric and cooling devices.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New method speeds up 3-D printing of millimeter-sized imaging lenses

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new method to create high-quality imaging lenses quickly using a 3D printer. The customized optical component can be printed in about four hours and has smooth surface quality, paving the way for applications in optics, vision correction, and disease diagnosis.

Sewage sludge leads to biofuels breakthrough

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and JBEI have discovered a new enzyme that enables microbial production of toluene, an aromatic biofuel. The discovery is a major breakthrough in biotechnology, expanding the known catalytic range of glycyl radical enzymes and opening up new possibilities for renewable energy.

Physicists measured the properties of ultrashort X-ray pulses

Researchers at Lomonosov Moscow State University and international colleagues determine ultrashort X-ray laser pulse energy and time characteristics using the angular streaking method. This allows for individual pulse measurement with high temporal resolution, opening up new avenues for studying ultra-fast molecular processes.

Jelawat not seen as a threat to the Philippines

A tropical cyclone in Western Micronesia is expected to strengthen into a storm but is too far away to affect the Philippines. The Suomi NPP satellite will monitor changes in vegetation productivity and track natural disasters from space.

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.

Elon Musk's vision to colonize Mars updated in New Space

Elon Musk presents an updated design for the Big Falcon Rocket, a powerful rocket intended to propel a space vehicle to the International Space Station and beyond. The BFR's updated design includes a huge carbon fiber tank and new fueling system to lower costs and achieve rendezvous and docking.

North Atlantic iceberg discharge and South American monsoon

A study links North Atlantic iceberg discharge to increased South American monsoon precipitation, leading to higher global atmospheric methane levels. The research provides new insights into the tropical hydrologic cycle and its implications for climate change.

Hybrid chickadees found deficient at learning and memory

A new study reveals that hybrid chickadees have marked deficiencies in learning and memory compared to their pure species parents. This discovery provides a new mechanism by which hybrids can have low fitness, potentially leading to cascading effects on species apart.

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.

Treating koalas for chlamydia alters gut microbes

A new study found that antibiotics used to treat Chlamydia in koalas can alter the balance of gut microbes necessary for digestion, according to researchers at UC Davis. The study suggests a need to develop antibiotic-free treatments, such as a vaccine, to address this issue.

Consequences of voter referendums for marginalized groups

A study analyzing TV ad data from same-sex marriage referendums found increased stress among LGBTQ individuals with increased exposure, but also reported happiness in response to positive ads. The findings suggest that voter referendums can have both negative and positive effects on marginalized groups.

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.