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Science News Archive November 2018 - Page 21


Page 21 of 42

Cosmic fireworks

Astronomers have discovered a rare gamma-ray binary system, allowing for the study of particle acceleration in a unique environment. The system, consisting of a massive star and a rapidly rotating neutron star, was detected emitting high-energy particles accelerated by its strong magnetic field.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 15, 2018

Can you repurpose this unique Navy drone?

The Nomad is a low-cost rotary wing vehicle designed for electronic warfare, featuring counter-rotating coaxial rotors and compact storage in an integrated launch tube. Patent licensing makes it available for repurposing in other applications, including commercial sales.

Epoxy compound gets a graphene bump

Rice University scientists have developed a new epoxy compound that combines graphene foam for improved conductivity and strength. The composite material is substantially tougher than pure epoxy and far more conductive, while retaining its low density.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 14, 2018

Ringling train chugs into digital world

The century-old Wisconsin train car has been digitally accessed through 3D models and printed spare parts created using digital photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanning. The project, led by the University of South Florida, aims to preserve the fragile antique components while allowing for future restoration efforts.

Super-Earth orbiting Barnard's Star

Astronomers detect a super-Earth orbiting Barnard's Star, with the planet having a mass at least 3.2 times that of Earth, and orbits its host star in roughly 233 days. The exoplanet lies close to the snow line, making it inhospitable for life as we know it.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateNov 14, 2018

Next-gen batteries possible with new engineering approach

Researchers developed a three-dimensional polymer sponge that promotes ion transfer while inhibiting dendritic growth in lithium metal batteries, potentially increasing cycle life and safety. The technology could enable more powerful and stable metal battery technologies for everyday use.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 14, 2018

Defense against intestinal infection in organism is affected by prostaglandin E2

Experimental inhibition of prostaglandin E2 enhanced the ability of mice to combat infectious colitis, resulting in increased migration of defense cells and production of antimicrobial peptides. Inhibiting PGE2 also favored the expression of defensins, considered natural antibiotics, in the colon.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2018

Precision neuroengineering enables reproduction of complex brain-like functions in vitro

Researchers from Tohoku University and the University of Barcelona have developed an in vitro neural circuit model that reproduces complex brain-like functions. The study reveals the importance of modular organization for maximizing flexibility in neural circuits, as well as the potential of biophysical models to understand collective ...

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 14, 2018

Late Miocene ape maxilla (upper jaw) discovered in western India

A Late Miocene ape maxilla was discovered in the Kutch basin, western India, significantly extending the southern range of ancient apes in the Indian Peninsula. The specimen, dated to around 11-10 million years ago, belongs to the Sivapithecus genus and provides new insights into human evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 14, 2018

Stress in early life has a lasting impact on male birds' song

A study found that male birds' song complexity and frequency are linked to their early life conditions, with healthier nestlings producing more intricate songs as adults. Researchers monitored 18 wild white-throated dippers and discovered that better nutrition during the nestling period led to improved singing skills.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 14, 2018