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Science News Archive November 2018 - Page 12


Page 12 of 42

Electronic glove gives robots a sense of touch

Researchers at Stanford University have developed an electronic glove with sensors that can detect pressure intensity and direction, allowing a robotic hand to perform tasks like lifting eggs and handling delicate objects without crushing them. The technology has potential applications in robot-assisted surgery and other fields where p...

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Robotics·DateNov 21, 2018

Helping to transport proteins inside the cell

A team of researchers has uncovered a critical mechanism for transporting proteins into the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy in cells. The discovery reveals that two J-proteins play a key role in targeting precursor proteins to specific receptors on the outer mitochondrial membrane.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 21, 2018

New insight into molecular processes

A team at the University of Freiburg has successfully applied 2D-spectroscopy to isolated molecular systems, allowing for more precise study of atomic interactions. This breakthrough enables a better understanding of processes in photovoltaics and optoelectronics.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 21, 2018

Climate change predicted to end truffle production

A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a decline of 78-100% in European truffle production between 2071 and 2100, with significant economic and social impacts. The study highlights the need for conservational initiatives and management strategies to mitigate soil temperature fluctuations and conserve soil moisture.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateNov 21, 2018

NIH-funded researchers identify how hantaviruses infect the lungs

Researchers found that protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) is essential for hantavirus infection of lung cells. Disrupting this recognition event could lead to a therapeutic against hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). The study, supported by NIH funding, used monoclonal antibodies to block virus entry and showed promising results in hamster models.

How do flying bees make perfect turns?

Researchers found that bees' speed decreases when entering a turn and increases when exiting, allowing them to maintain constant centripetal acceleration. Bees manage their speed to reduce 'sideslips' caused by excess centrifugal force, making turns with sharp forces more manageable.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 21, 2018

How Chile accomplished its renewable energy boom

Environmental organizations and social movements in Chile played a crucial role in fostering renewable energy policy, according to a new study. The authors argue that 'contingent coalitions' - collective actors with shared interests - were instrumental in promoting innovative policies and increasing the political clout of these groups.

SourceWiley·JournalPolicy Studies Journal·DateNov 21, 2018

Scientists developed enzymes with remote control

Researchers from ITMO University developed a method to enhance enzyme activity using radio frequency radiation, resulting in acceleration of enzymatic processes. The technique uses magnetic nanoparticles to adsorb radio emission and convert it to heat, stabilizing the enzyme and allowing for remote control of biochemical systems.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·DateNov 21, 2018

Trial examines how mindfulness meditation may improve mood

A six-week mindfulness-meditation training program significantly reduced subjective distress and life dissatisfaction in mildly stressed adults. The effects were mediated by a reduction in perceived stress, supporting the theory that mindfulness facilitates acceptance of internal reactions to stressors.

SourceWiley·JournalStress and Health·DateNov 21, 2018

Building better batteries by borrowing from biology

A new advance in battery design has been made by Osaka University researchers who developed a material with highly mobile potassium ions that can easily migrate in response to electric fields. This work may lead to cheaper and safer replacements for lithium-ion batteries, benefiting electric cars and consumer electronics.

SourceOsaka University·JournalChemical Science·DateNov 21, 2018

Negative social cues on tobacco packaging may help smokers quit

New research suggests that negative social cues on tobacco packaging can trigger feelings of self-consciousness in smokers, particularly those who don't see smoking as identity-relevant. The study found that isolating smokers from positive social associations with smoking can be an effective tool to reduce smoking intentions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Consumer Affairs·DateNov 21, 2018