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Science News Archive 2017


Page 12 of 461

Superradiance of an ensemble of nuclei excited by a free electron laser

Researchers observed a dramatic reduction in the time taken to emit the first x-ray as the number of x-rays increased, in good agreement with Dicke's prediction. This behavior is consistent with the concept of superradiance, where a group of atoms emit light at a faster rate than a single atom.

Exposure to larger air particles linked to increased risk of asthma in children

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that exposure to coarse particulate matter increases the risk of asthma and hospitalizations in children. For each microgram/cubic meter increase in coarse particulate matter, asthma diagnosis increased by 1.3 percent, emergency room visits for asthma by 3.3 percent, and hospitalizations by...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Higher blood sugar in early pregnancy raises baby's heart-defect risk

A study led by Stanford University School of Medicine found that higher blood sugar levels in early pregnancy are associated with a greater risk of congenital heart defects in babies. The researchers analyzed data from over 19,000 pregnancies and found a significant link between blood glucose levels and the risk of heart defects.

Coarse particulate matter may increase asthma risk

New research found that coarse particulate matter increases the risk of asthma diagnosis, ER visits for asthma, and hospitalizations in children. The study analyzed records of over 7 million children in Medicaid and found a strong association between PM10-2.5 exposure and asthma-related outcomes.

The conversational intelligence challenge finals

The Conversational Intelligence Challenge Finals saw six teams compete, with two winning teams developing modules for processing different scenarios and a command module that decides which routine should step in. The competition aimed to work out approaches for chatbot evaluation and human-to-machine dialogue collection.

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.

Extending food safety training to other countries could save live

A Penn State research group extended its food safety training program to Armenia, showing significant improvements in students' knowledge, behavior, and attitudes towards food safety. The project aims to replicate the program in Ukraine, Africa, and Latin America to combat global foodborne illness.

Complete design of a silicon quantum computer chip unveiled

The new chip design enables millions of qubits to be integrated and processed simultaneously, solving complex problems exponentially faster than conventional computers. The UNSW-led team's innovative approach incorporates error-correcting codes and sophisticated protocols to control the vast array of quantum bits.

A shoe-box-sized chemical detector

A new optical-fiber-based laser enables detection of chemicals by analyzing reflected light patterns. The device uses a broadband infrared supercontinuum laser to identify substances based on their chemical signature.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Space station research explorer on NASA.gov launches phase one

Space Station Research Explorer on NASA.gov provides a tailored experience for scientists and enthusiasts, offering thousands of investigations, results summaries, and in-orbit photographs. The new tool features improved search capabilities, social media sharing, and bookmarking options.

Could a new app help cure loneliness?

Researchers from Lancaster University are developing an app to tackle social isolation and loneliness in older adults. The app will provide users with information on local social opportunities and real-time data on factors that discourage outdoor activity, such as weather and daylight levels.

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.

Vitamin deficiency in later life

A study of 1,079 older adults found that 52% had vitamin D levels below 50 nmol/L and 27% had low vitamin B12 levels. Regular intake of vitamin-containing supplements can improve levels, but a healthy diet is essential.

Amber-tinted glasses may provide relief for insomnia

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that wearing amber-tinted lenses before bed can improve sleep quality in individuals with insomnia. Participants wore wrap-around frames with amber or clear lenses for seven consecutive nights, resulting in an average of 30 minutes extra sleep and improved insomnia severity.

UTA leads Texas universities for NAI Fellows

Dereje Agonafer's election as an NAI Fellow marks the highest number of NAI Fellows at any university in Texas. He is a renowned expert in thermal engineering and has developed innovative cooling systems for high-power chip stacking.

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.

Research points to second chance for rejected antibiotic candidate

Scientists at the University of Leeds have found that an old antibiotic candidate, pentyl pantothenamide, can stop E. coli growth but not kill it, making it effective against a specific type of bacteria. The discovery opens up the possibility of designing new drugs using the same mechanism to attack other disease-causing bacteria.

New technique could make captured carbon more valuable

Scientists developed an efficient process to turn captured CO2 into syngas, a mixture of H2 and CO that can be used to make fuels and chemicals. The new process uses switchable polarity solvents to control what molecules dissolve in the solvent.

3-D nanoscale imaging made possible

A new imaging technique allows for true 3D imaging at the nanoscale with a resolution of 30nm. This breakthrough has potential applications in fields like materials science, physics, and medicine.

Nanoparticles as a solution against antibiotic resistance?

Scientists from Friedrich Schiller University Jena have developed nanoparticles that transport antibiotics more efficiently to their destination, killing off pathogens without problems. The particles are able to penetrate thick layers of mucus and biofilms, making them a promising solution against antibiotic resistance.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Real-time observation of collective quantum modes

A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has directly observed collective quantum modes in a quantum simulator, revealing the behavior of Goldstone and Higgs modes. This breakthrough sheds new light on fundamental phenomena like magnetism and superconductivity.

Study prompts new ideas on cancers' origins

Researchers found that mature cells can revert to a stem cell-like state, carrying accumulated mutations that predispose them to developing into precancerous lesions. This new understanding could lead to the development of treatments targeting mature cells, potentially preventing cancer recurrence.

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.

Error-free into the quantum computer age

Researchers developed trapped-ion quantum error correction protocols to detect and correct processing errors, enabling the creation of larger quantum computers. The study suggests that today's quantum computer prototypes can meet specific criteria with current ion-trap technologies.

Heavy-petroleum fuels raising vanadium emissions

Human emissions of vanadium have spiked since the start of the 21st century due to heavy oil use, surpassing natural sources combined. The health risks of airborne vanadium particles are not well documented but may impair respiratory functions and exacerbate conditions like asthma.

Screening could catch a quarter of hip fractures before they happen

A large multicentre study found that community screening for osteoporosis using bone mineral density measurements and a questionnaire led to a 28% reduction in hip fractures among older women. The approach is estimated to prevent one hip fracture for every 111 women screened.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

A new theory to describe widely used material

Researchers have developed a theoretical model that explains the interaction between ions and electrons in PEDOT:PSS, a widely used conducting material. The model has implications for applications in printed electronics, energy storage, and bioelectronics.

Insight into how infants learn to walk

Researchers at Lancaster University found that 10-week-old babies who practiced 'reflex walking' showed a stronger brain response when watching humans walk compared to those who didn't. The study suggests that experience can refine the perception of biological motion in early infancy.

Bioengineers imagine the future of vaccines and immunotherapy

Researchers explore the use of nanoparticles, microneedle patches, and polymer particles to enhance vaccine effectiveness and delivery. These innovative biomaterials may improve responses in HIV, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, reducing medical waste and expanding vaccine accessibility.

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.

Northeast farmers weigh warming climate, drenched fields

Farmers in the Northeast are adapting to longer growing seasons and warmer climate conditions, but may face financial losses due to delayed planting and increased disease problems. The region has seen a 71% increase in extreme precipitation events, which can lead to crop failures and reduced yields.

Frequent sun exposure may cue gene fusion found in skin cancer

Researchers found a specific fusion gene in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma lesions exposed to the sun, which may play a role in cancers caused by ultraviolet irradiation. The discovery could lead to improved diagnostics and therapies for this type of skin cancer.

Clearing the air

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have made a breakthrough in understanding the Criegee intermediate, a key chemical able to break down sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. The research improves models for atmospheric chemistry and validates a major theory for predicting chemical reactivity.

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.

Finding a lethal parasite's vulnerabilities

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania has discovered a molecule that can suppress the lethal form of infection in a mouse model of Strongyloides stercoralis. By using this molecule, they were able to prevent the formation of larvae that trigger a persistent cycle of infection in the host.

Landmark paper on global oceans garners international award

A 1996 paper by Robert Howarth and John A. Downing quantified the relationship between human activities and nitrogen entering coastal oceans, identifying fertilizer and atmospheric deposition as key contributors. The study's findings have had long-lasting relevance, driving future research directions in nitrogen biogeochemical cycling.

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.

Suicidal thoughts rapidly reduced with ketamine, finds study

A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that ketamine was significantly more effective than a sedative in reducing suicidal thoughts in depressed patients, with improvements occurring within hours. The treatment showed promise as a rapidly acting treatment for reducing suicidal thoughts in patients with depression.

Tracing a plant's steps: Following seed dispersal using chloroplast DNA

Researchers developed a new tool to sequence chloroplast DNA from hundreds of plants at once, allowing for accurate tracking of seed dispersal across landscapes. This method has significantly reduced the costs of genetic studies, enabling biologists to investigate plant populations and their movements.

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.

Loose skin and 'slack volume' protect hagfish from shark bites

Researchers at Chapman University found that hagfish skin is not puncture-resistant due to its flaccid nature. The slime released after attack plays a crucial role in defending against shark bites, showcasing the unique defensive strategy of these ancient eel-like animals.

Kent State researcher exposes MRSA risk at northeast Ohio beaches

A recent study by Tara C. Smith, Ph.D., found a higher-than-expected prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at beaches around Lake Erie. The study revealed that MRSA levels were more than 40% higher in the summer when beaches are most heavily used.

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.

MIT scientists prove tailgating doesn't get you there faster

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL team show that keeping an equal distance between cars reduces traffic jams, enabling drivers to reach their destinations almost twice as quickly. The approach, known as bilateral control, could be achieved through software and hardware updates, without requiring extensive infrastructure changes.

Groundbreaking gene therapy trial set to cure hemophilia

A groundbreaking gene therapy trial has shown that over one year on from a single treatment, participants with haemophilia A are showing normal levels of the previously missing protein, effectively curing them. The results have particular significance as the first successful gene therapy trial for the haemophilia A.

Two groups that want to save elephants need to find common ground

The article discusses ways to reconcile differing views on elephant conservation policy between two groups with conflicting opinions. Stakeholder trust and agreement can be achieved through structured discussions and the evaluation of policy consequences in a way that minimizes bias.

Johns Hopkins scientists chart how brain signals connect to neurons

Scientists at Johns Hopkins used supercomputers to create an atomic scale map of how glutamate binds to a neuron in the brain. The study reveals that glutamate molecules follow specific pathways on the surface of glutamate receptors, with positively charged atoms guiding its negatively charged atoms.