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Science News Archive October 2018


Page 12 of 47

Scientists unravel the mysteries of polymer strands in fuel cells

Researchers have discovered that Nafion membranes partially unwind their fibers as they interact with water, leading to the growth of polymer fibers extending from the surface. This phenomenon is most pronounced in water with a high deuterium content, offering new avenues for optimizing fuel cell performance and electrical properties.

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.

More rules for the intelligent household

A study investigated ideal access control rules for smart home devices in networked households, analyzing user preferences and derived suggestions for access management. The researchers found that contextual factors such as age, location, and usage history affect access rights, suggesting a need for customizable settings.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mucus, cough and chronic lung disease: New discoveries

Researchers have uncovered the importance of mucus clearance in maintaining healthy airways. In chronic lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis and COPD, immobile mucus layers can accumulate bacteria, damaging lungs. The studies suggest using inhalation sprays to keep mucus bundles moving may impede formation of these harmful layers.

Some planetary systems just aren't into heavy metal

Researchers at Yale and the Flatiron Institute found that compact, multiple-planet systems are more likely to form around stars with lower amounts of heavy elements. This discovery suggests new insights into the formation of smaller planets and their potential for supporting life.

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.

Choice architecture for architecture choices

A new tool, Multicriteria Decision Aiding methodology, helps decision makers structure and aggregate complex information for social housing initiatives. The method, based on Analytical Hierarchy Process and Non-Additive Robust Ordinal Regression, provides a transparent and explainable outcome.

Normal function of ALS and dementia linked gene determined for the first time

A University of Bath team has biochemically characterised the protein produced by the C9orf72 gene, revealing it to be a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that regulates molecules called RABs. This understanding is crucial in developing treatments and potentially a cure for neurodegenerative diseases ALS and FTD.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Skeletal stem cells regress when tasked with extensive regeneration

Researchers at Stanford University discovered that adult mouse skeletal stem cells revert to an earlier developmental stage when tasked with regenerating large portions of bone and tissue. This process, called de-differentiation, allows the cells to become more primitive and express genes typically found in early embryonic development.

Chemists disproved the universal nature of the mercury test

Researchers at RUDN University found the mercury test ambiguous and required additional control experiments to verify results. This discovery may lead to reevaluating existing experimental data and improving catalysis mechanisms in chemical reactions.

Small flying robots haul heavy loads

Researchers at Stanford University have developed small flying robots called FlyCroTugs that can pull objects up to 40 times their weight using advanced gripping technologies. The robots' ability to anchor themselves to various surfaces using gecko-inspired adhesives and microspines enables them to navigate through snug spaces and inte...

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.

Atmospheric scientists to weather the stormiest place on Earth

A six-week scientific campaign, RELAMPAGO, aims to discover why thunderstorms in a particular region of Argentina are among the most extreme in the world. Researchers will use advanced instruments to study storm formation and behavior, with a focus on improving knowledge and prediction of violent storms.

New genetic pathways linked to severe lung disease in preemies

Scientists have discovered new genetic pathways associated with severe lung disease in premature infants, including those related to gonadotropin releasing hormone and heart development. These findings offer promise for earlier risk detection and the development of more precise treatments for this life-threatening condition.

Helping blood cells regenerate after radiation therapy

A new method developed by MIT researchers helps blood cells regenerate faster after radiation therapy, which can help leukemia and lymphoma patients recover from bone marrow irradiation. The technique involves stimulating stem cells to secrete growth factors that aid in the differentiation of precursor cells into mature blood cells.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Asian catfish genome decoded

Researchers at OIST and Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology have decoded the entire genome of the striped catfish, revealing new details about its evolutionary lineage and genes related to disease resistance. The genome data will enable aquaculturists to develop molecular markers for optimal breeding

Study finds glyphosate in cat and dog food

A Cornell University study reveals glyphosate in various dog and cat foods, with amounts considered safe for humans. The herbicide's origin is linked to plant-based ingredients, and its presence even in GMO-free products poses a challenge.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Satellite sees Supertyphoon Yutu's eye pass over Tinian

NASA's GPM satellite captured the eye of Super Typhoon Yutu passing over Tinian, with maximum sustained winds reaching 180 mph. The storm also brought extremely heavy rainfall, causing flash floods and potentially deadly surf conditions.

New tool streamlines the creation of moving pictures

A new tool developed at Princeton University streamlines the creation of computer-animated images by automatically separating repeating objects into layers. The tool allows users to manually select and draw motion lines, which are then used to animate similar elements in a believable manner.

Persistence of glass sponge in face of climatic variability

A study published in PLOS ONE found that the glass sponge Vazella pourtalesi has persisted on the Scotian Shelf, which experiences strong multi-decadal variability in temperature and salinity. The sponge's ability to adapt to these changes suggests its potential response to future climate change.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Insulin discovery a game-changer for improving diabetes treatments

Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have produced the first definitive 3D image of how insulin binds to its receptor on the surface of cells. This image could inform the design of faster-acting and longer-lasting insulin therapies, potentially benefiting millions worldwide.

Governor's office funds two UTA projects through crime victims grant

The University of Texas at Arlington has received a $500,000 grant from the Office of the Governor to fund two projects: one providing campus victim services and the other evaluating programs across the state. The grant aims to support crime victims and their services, with a focus on sexual assault cases.

New Caledonian crows can create compound tools

Researchers found that New Caledonian crows can combine short parts to create novel functional tools, similar to early human tool manufacture. The birds' ability to anticipate object properties and solve complex problems is remarkable and sheds light on cognitive processes necessary for physical problem-solving.

New Caledonian crows can create compound tools

New Caledonian crows demonstrate the ability to combine short components into novel functional tools, solving complex problems without assistance. This remarkable cognitive feat parallels human and ape behavior, highlighting the importance of planning and creative mental modeling.

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.

More goals in quantum soccer

Researchers at the University of Bonn have successfully applied the Purcell effect to improve the transmission of quantum information. By forcing photons onto a specific path using the Purcell effect, they achieved a significant increase in efficiency, enabling faster communication between quantum dots and transmitters.

Climate change: US desert areas to become even drier

A recent study reveals that the US desert areas will experience a significant increase in dryness due to climate change. The research, conducted at Devils Hole cave, suggests that the water table has fluctuated by as much as 10 meters over the past 350,000 years, with shifts in Pacific storm track influencing rainfall patterns.

How people power can track alien species -- Study

A new study published in Nature journal Scientific Data highlights the role of citizen scientists in tracking the spread of invasive species. The UK Ladybird Survey mapped 48,510 observations of the harlequin ladybird over a decade, showing its rapid spread across England and Wales.

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.

Breeding beans that resist weevils

A new study has identified genetic locations of resistance genes in the common bean, allowing breeders to develop varieties with built-in weevil protection. This will enable farmers to store seeds more effectively, reducing losses and improving food security.

NSF selects Penn State to establish, lead Center for Trustworthy Machine Learning

The NSF has awarded a $9.98 million grant to Penn State to establish and lead the Center for Trustworthy Machine Learning, aiming to develop rigorous techniques to manage and mitigate machine learning security vulnerabilities. The center will bring together experts from multiple disciplines to advance the science of safe machine learning.

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.

Gene network lets plant roots handle nitrogen

Researchers at UC Davis and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a gene network that enables plant roots to efficiently take up and metabolize nitrogen. This breakthrough could lead to the development of crop varieties that need less fertilizer or make better use of it, reducing environmental impacts.

Antibiotic explorers

Researchers at Harvard University have discovered that tetracycline antibiotics target human cytosolic ribosomes, leading to potential breakthroughs in treating cancer and pathological inflammation. The study provides a crucial foundation for further drug discovery and treatment development.

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.

UTSA Gets $2 million to train national security analytics cyber workforce

The University of Texas at San Antonio's College of Business has received a $2 million grant from the Defense Intelligence Agency to expand its Master of Science in Data Analytics program. The three-year grant will allow for the development of new courses, research collaborations, and internship opportunities with industry partners.

A new model for how working memory gets you through the day

A new model of working memory proposes that the brain uses coordinating ensembles of cells with timely bursts of activity at specific brain wave frequencies to hold information in mind. This model challenges traditional beliefs about brainwaves having functional meaning and working memory being maintained by persistent neural firing.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

At least 57 negative impacts from cyber-attacks

Researchers identified five key themes of cyber-harm, including physical/digital, economic, psychological, reputational, and social/societal impacts. High-profile attacks like Sony and Ashley Madison demonstrate the devastating consequences of cyber-attacks on individuals and businesses.

Wood sponge soaks up oil from water (video)

Researchers have created wood sponges that selectively absorb oil from water, then can be squeezed out and used again. The sponges absorbed 16-41 times their own weight in oil, comparable to or better than other reported absorbents.