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Science News for July 21, 2010


Penn collaboration leads to simpler method for building varieties of nanocrystal superlattices

A team of chemists, physicists and materials scientists at the University of Pennsylvania created a new method to rapidly grow centimeter-scale membranes of binary nanocrystal superlattices by crystallizing a mixture of nanocrystals on a liquid surface. The study demonstrates a new way to control nanocrystal size, shape and concentration.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Brain scans may help guide career choice

Researchers used MRI scans to investigate the neurological basis for performance on vocational guidance tests, finding that gray matter correlates differ between broad and narrow test types. This study provides a basis for investigating whether brain scans can provide unique information for vocational choice.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Research Notes·DateJul 21, 2010

Idaho STEM gets million dollar boost

The University of Idaho is launching a new STEM Educational Research Initiative, supported by a four-year, $1.2 million funding from the Micron Technology Foundation. The initiative aims to identify and address root causes of why Idaho students may not perform well in STEM fields and develop programs to overcome those barriers.

SourceUniversity of Idaho·DateJul 21, 2010

Lack of insurance coverage remains obstacle to wider colorectal cancer screening with CT colonography

A recent study found that a significant number of patients are willing to undergo computed tomography colonography (CTC) for colorectal cancer screening, but are hesitant to pay out-of-pocket fees. The study suggests that CTC availability could improve screening rates if insurance coverage were more widely available.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Every action has a beginning and an end (and it's all in your brain)

Researchers discovered that specific brain circuits in the basal ganglia signal the start and stop of new actions, a process compromised in Parkinson's and Huntington's patients. Genetic manipulation of these circuits in mice impaired sequence learning, echoing human patients' struggles with movement initiation and termination.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2010

Researchers use nanoparticles as destructive beacons to zap tumors

Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center researchers have developed a new technology using iron-containing Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes to treat cancer. The iron-loaded nanoparticles can be tracked in living tissue and destroy tumors when hit with a laser, offering a potential solution to increasing the accuracy of cancer treatment.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateJul 21, 2010

Research links recreational pool disinfectants to health problems

A recent study by University of Illinois researchers found that the application of disinfectants in recreational pools can lead to adverse health outcomes. The study suggests that brominating agents should be avoided as disinfectants, and that a combination of UV treatment with chlorine is the best method to treat pool waters.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 21, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Wacky weather could squeeze Florida's citrus season

A recent study found that Florida's winters are getting more extreme, causing plants to flower later and potentially shrinking the growing seasons for some of the state's most vital crops. The researchers' work highlights the complexity of a changing climate in a warming world.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 21, 2010

Data mining made faster

A University of Utah computer scientist has devised a new method to simplify and speed up data mining, allowing for the analysis of high-dimensional data. The new approach can handle larger datasets than previous methods, making it useful for various applications in natural and social sciences.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateJul 21, 2010

Wildfire prevention pays big dividends in Florida, study finds

Researchers found that wildfire prevention education in Florida significantly outweighs its costs, with benefits ranging from 10- to 99-fold. The study suggests media efforts are the most effective method, yielding largest net benefits per unit, while presentations in public venues can also be effective.

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalForest Science·DateJul 21, 2010

Black hole jerked around twice

Astronomers discovered a giant black hole with its spin axis pointing in a different direction after two collisions with smaller galaxies. The observations suggest that the black hole was jerked around twice, creating cavities and radio jets.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 21, 2010

Climate change causes larger, more plentiful marmots, study shows

A study by University of Kansas researchers found that climate change is leading to increased body weight and population size in mountain rodents called marmots. The longer growing season due to warming temperatures allows marmots to gain more fat, reproduce earlier, and survive hibernation better.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

New evidence that chili pepper ingredient fights fat

A new study has discovered that capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, can cause weight loss and fight fat buildup by triggering certain beneficial protein changes in the body. The research, published in ACS' Journal of Proteome Research, suggests that capsaicin may lead to new treatments for obesity.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJul 21, 2010

Toronto homeless report barriers to health care

A new study reveals that 17% of Toronto's homeless population has unmet health care needs, with women and those with dependent children facing significant barriers. The study highlights the importance of primary care providers and access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 21, 2010

Researchers use nanoparticles as destructive beacons to zap tumors

Researchers have successfully used iron-containing Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) to destroy tumors with heat generated by laser therapy. The nanotubes become visible in an MRI scanner, allowing for precise targeting of cancer cells and reducing the risk of harming healthy tissue.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateJul 21, 2010

Toward a new generation of superplastics

Scientists have validated a new organoclay material that is safer and more environmentally friendly for making plastics. The new material achieves mass producible organoclays that are cheaper and generate less dust compared to current alternatives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMacromolecules·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Muscular heart failure patients may have a better chance at survival: U of A study

A University of Alberta study discovered that muscular heart failure patients with more muscle mass tend to have better nutritional status and reduced severity of the disease. Higher body fat is associated with increased inflammation and reduced exercise capacity, suggesting a potential benefit from having lower body fat.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJul 21, 2010

Childhood sexual abuse and social shaming linked to health issues later

A study of over 1,000 gay and bisexual men found that childhood sexual abuse and social shaming were associated with later psychosocial health problems, including increased risk-taking behavior. The authors suggest that addressing early social issues could help prevent these syndemic conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateJul 21, 2010

NASA satellites see System 97L serve up a soaking

System 97L is developing into a system with intense rainfall, affecting Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Hispaniola. NASA satellite data shows strong thunderstorms and cold cloud tops, indicating potential for a tropical cyclone.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Top scientists tackle the issue of HIV persistence

Researchers gathered for a workshop to review and debate the latest research on HIV reservoirs, with the goal of controlling or eradicating the virus. Despite advances in antiretroviral therapy, HIV remains hidden in certain cells, making lifelong treatment necessary.

SourceInternational AIDS Society·DateJul 21, 2010

New links between cholesterol and depression in the elderly

Researchers found that women with low HDL cholesterol are at higher risk for vascular disease and depression, while men with low LDL cholesterol are at increased mental health risk. The study suggests that regulating cholesterol levels may help prevent depression in the elderly.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJul 21, 2010

Subtle thyroid problem triples the risk of placental separation in birth

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered a link between anti-TPO antibodies and placental abruption in pregnant women. The study of over 17,000 women found that antibody-positive women were three times as likely to experience placental separation during labor.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Mother Nature to provide an environmentally friendly method for reducing mosquitoes

Scientists at the University of Haifa have identified two chemicals released by mosquito predators that repel egg-laying mosquitoes, offering a potential environmentally friendly solution for reducing mosquito populations. The findings may lead to the development of a natural and inexpensive option for controlling mosquito breeding sites.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalEcology Letters·DateJul 21, 2010

Most men in long-term study of HIV report low use of illicit drugs

A 10-year study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that 79% of participants reported infrequent drug use, with three distinct subgroups emerging. The study aimed to understand how drug use changes among older gay and bisexual men and its implications for HIV prevention and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateJul 21, 2010

Nitric oxide does not prevent poor lung development or increase survival of preterm infants overall, but black babies did better than non-black

A randomized controlled trial found that nitric oxide treatment did not improve overall survival or reduce poor lung development in preterm infants. However, black babies showed a higher survival rate compared to non-black babies. The study suggests that ethnic origin may affect the response to nitric oxide treatment.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 21, 2010

Stars just got bigger

Scientists have discovered a star with a mass of 265 solar masses in the Large Magellanic Cloud, exceeding previous records. This finding raises questions about the formation process of such massive stars and their role in shaping the universe.

SourceESO·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Toxic trio identified as the basis of celiac disease

Researchers have identified three protein fragments in gluten that trigger an immune response in people with coeliac disease, leading to small intestine damage. This discovery could pave the way for a new generation of diagnostic tools, treatments, and prevention strategies.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 21, 2010

A new code of conduct for researchers

The new code addresses good practice and bad conduct in science, offering a basis for trust and integrity across Europe. Researchers will have a common set of standards to self-regulate the research community, preventing misconduct that can endanger reputations.

SourceEuropean Science Foundation·DateJul 21, 2010

Valproic acid shown to halt vision loss in patients with retinitis pigmentosa

Researchers at UMass Medical School have found valproic acid to halt vision loss in patients with retinitis pigmentosa, a severe neurodegenerative disease that causes blindness. The study suggests that low-dose valproic acid could be an effective treatment for photoreceptor loss associated with RP.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJul 21, 2010
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A new drug treatment to close the window on colon cancer

Researchers at Tel Aviv University are developing a new clinical approach to prevent cancer recurrence after surgery by blocking stress responses. The treatment involves combining two widely available medications to boost the immune system and prevent tumor metastasis, with promising results in animal studies.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateJul 21, 2010

Protein from poplar trees can be used to greatly increase computer capacity

Scientists at Hebrew University have developed a new technology using poplar tree protein to increase computer memory capacity and reduce manufacturing costs. The approach involves combining protein molecules with silica nanoparticles, resulting in a cost-effective system that can greatly expand existing memory capacity.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 21, 2010

High-resolution imaging expands vision research of live birds of prey

Researchers have developed a non-invasive imaging tool to study the retina of live birds of prey, producing detailed images for the first time in history. The new spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) system shows unprecedented three-dimensional information about the retina's layers and structure.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Nanoribbons for graphene transistors

Researchers successfully grow graphene ribbons with adjustable properties by creating narrow ribbons with well-defined edges. The new method enables the production of components with specific optical and electronic properties, paving the way for the development of future nanoelectronics.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2010

Quantum entanglement in photosynthesis and evolution

Researchers suggest quantum entanglement may be occurring in photosynthetic complexes of plants, enhancing light conversion efficiency. A computer simulation reveals long-lived quantum coherence is essential for quantum information storage and manipulation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJul 21, 2010

Researchers: EPA should recognize environmental impact of protecting foreign oil

New research from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln estimates that US military protection of supertankers in the Persian Gulf generates 34.4 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions annually. This finding highlights the need for regulators to include these emissions in comparisons of gasoline and biofuels.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalEnvironment·DateJul 21, 2010
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.

Radio astronomers develop new technique for studying dark energy

Radio astronomers have developed a new technique for studying dark energy by mapping large-scale cosmic structures. This method, called intensity mapping, allows them to accumulate radio waves emitted by hydrogen gas in vast volumes of space, revealing insights into the nature of dark energy and its impact on the Universe's evolution.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·JournalNature·DateJul 21, 2010

Antibiotics for the prevention of malaria

Researchers found that administering antibiotics to mice infected with malaria prevents the disease and induces long-term immunity. The treatment targets the apicoplast, a bacterial organ necessary for parasite reproduction, allowing the immune system to develop robust protection.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 21, 2010

Primitive frogs do a belly flop

A new study reveals that primitive living frogs evolved jumping before perfecting their landing techniques, leading to distinctive belly flop landings. This evolutionary split may have contributed to the frogs' inability to swim synchronously and resulted in unusual anatomical features.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateJul 21, 2010
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

How do you make the perfect sled dog?

Researchers identified the genetic contributions of various breeds to Alaskan sled dogs' performance. The study found that Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky traits are associated with enhanced endurance, while Pointer and Saluki contribute to speed, and Anatolian Shepherd improves work ethic.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Genetics·DateJul 21, 2010

New antibacterial material for bandages, food packaging, shoes

Researchers have developed a new form of paper that can fight disease-causing bacteria, with potential applications in anti-bacterial bandages, food packaging, and shoe materials. The material, composed of graphene oxide, shows superior antibacterial effects with minimal impact on human cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 21, 2010

Nanotech coatings produce 20 times more electricity from sewage

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a technology that uses nanotech coatings to produce electricity from sewage, increasing output 20 times. The new approach could clean biowaste while producing useful levels of electricity, promoting sustainable wastewater treatment and renewable energy.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateJul 21, 2010

Now you see it, now you don't

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a non-metallic glass cloak that uses magnetic resonance to bend light waves around objects, making them invisible. The technology has potential applications in military and law enforcement.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 21, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

UHN establishes first telepathology system in Ontario

Physicians in Northern Ontario communities can now access specialized UHN pathologists for fast and accurate diagnosis, saving time and improving patient care. The new telepathology system enables instant transmission of digital images of pathology samples, reducing travel times from hours to minutes.

SourceUniversity Health Network·DateJul 21, 2010

Students design early labor detector to prevent premature births

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a new system to detect preterm contractions with greater accuracy and sensitivity than existing tools. The device is designed to pick up electrical signals associated with uterine contractions, allowing doctors to delay preterm deliveries by six weeks or more.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJul 21, 2010

Researchers pinpoint key stem cells for eating and sex

Dr. Anthony-Samuel LaMantia's research identifies stem cells responsible for generating nerve cells involved in eating, reproduction, and social behavior. These cells are essential for understanding neurological and mental disabilities, such as autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceGeorge Washington University Medical Center·JournalDevelopment·DateJul 21, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Engineering researchers simplify process to make world's tiniest wires

Engineering researchers developed a low-cost solution to overcome surface tension clumping nanowires during manufacturing, enabling more efficient solar cells and batteries. The new process uses an electrical charge to repel neighboring wires, improving their density and surface area.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 21, 2010

Overcoming childhood obesity means addressing mom's weight issues as well

The STOP Obesity Alliance Task Force on Women highlights four critical factors hindering women's efforts to combat childhood obesity: socioeconomic challenges, lack of access to healthcare, limited education and awareness, and societal pressure. By addressing these obstacles, the Alliance aims to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce...

SourceChandler Chicco Agency·DateJul 21, 2010
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.