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Science News Archive August 2017


Page 12 of 41

Labor market effects of trade liberalization

A new study on Brazil's labor market reveals that workers in industries facing increased competition from imports experience stagnant wages and employment growth for 15 years. The research found that the costs of freer trade are unevenly distributed across regions, with differences growing over time.

'Nano-hashtags' could provide definite proof of Majorana particles

Researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology and colleagues present a new device that allows Majorana particles to exchange places, known as 'braid', which is considered the smoking gun for proving their existence. If successful, this technology could form the basis for future quantum computers.

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.

Low-Income extraverts spend more on status than introverted peers

A new study suggests that low-income individuals with high extraversion personality trait spend more on luxury items and experiences to compensate for their financial situation. The researchers found that this spending pattern held true even after accounting for other factors such as age and income level.

Wing shape helps swifts glide through storms, study suggests

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh discovered that swifts' crescent-shaped wings reduce turbulence effects, enabling them to conserve energy while gliding in blustery conditions. This unique aerodynamic property may inspire the design of new aerial technology similar to drones.

NASA's Aqua Satellite spots Typhoon Hato's Landfall in China

Typhoon Hato made landfall in mainland China around 0300 UTC on Aug. 23, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing a visible image of the storm just three hours later. The image showed powerful thunderstorms surrounding the center of circulation, providing critical weather updates for affected areas.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Disease-carrying mosquitoes rare in undisturbed tropical forests

A recent study by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and other institutions reveals that conserving old-growth tropical rainforests is crucial for preventing new outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases. The research found that disease-carrying mosquito species are scarce in undisturbed forest areas compared to disturbed ones.

Amid environmental change, lakes surprisingly static

A new study found that water quality of lakes in the Midwest and Northeast US has not overwhelmingly degraded or improved over recent decades, with only a small percentage experiencing clearer conditions. The researchers suggest that management practices are holding the line, but large-scale problems require a bigger picture approach.

Long-term study aims to understand prairie ecology after farmland is forsaken

A long-term study at the University of Kansas investigates how to restore native prairie ecosystems on abandoned farmland. Excess nitrogen has been shown to lead to a loss in plant diversity and simplify the system, favoring only a few species. The research aims to speed up restoration processes and re-establish original biodiversity.

Researchers link high levels of 'good' cholesterol with excessive mortality

Researchers found that extremely high HDL levels are associated with a higher mortality rate than normal levels. Men with extremely high levels had a 106% higher mortality rate, while women had a 68% higher mortality rate. The study suggests that the focus on HDL as an important health indicator may need to be revised.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New prospects on the spread of tumors

Researchers at TU Dresden and HTW Dresden found that cancer cells' adaptability affects tumour spread in complex environments, while simplicity worsens spreading. A theoretical approach to suppressing cancer cell plasticity has been proposed for further research.

What causes algal blooms to become toxic?

Scientists at UC Santa Cruz have made progress understanding and predicting toxic algal blooms, but the trigger for domoic acid production remains a mystery. A new grant will fund research to unravel the interaction between algae and bacteria, which are found in association with toxic blooms.

UA integrative medicine residency program flourishes

The University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine launched an online curriculum to train family medicine residents in integrative medicine. The 200-hour program improved residents' medical knowledge and clinical utility, with a high completion rate despite busy schedules.

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.

Linking mental health and the gut microbiome

A recent review suggests that the gut-microbiome's formation and influence begin early in life, potentially leading to imbalances that contribute to depressive syndromes. The review also finds evidence of disturbances in the microbiome due to stress, diet, and medications, highlighting the importance of nutrition in mental health.

A more complete picture of the nano world

Researchers have developed a new method, peak force infrared (PFIR) microscopy, which allows for simultaneous chemical and mechanical imaging of materials at the nanoscale. This technique enables the analysis of material properties at various places, providing insights into heterogeneous and biological materials.

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.

Low-cost production technology for sophisticated microreactors

This technology combines fine shape transfer, film formation, and selective thin film removing to produce high-performance microstructures at an affordable cost. Water-CARE device uses a platinum or nickel catalyst to etch surface protrusions, reducing the need for abrasive grains and chemical agents.

An eye towards islets

Scientists at University of Pittsburgh create vascularized pancreatic islet organoids using human pluripotent stem cells, offering potential treatment for Type I Diabetes. The innovative approach involves implanting blood vessel fragments into the islets before transplantation.

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.

NASA sees Tropical Depression Harvey's rebirth

Tropical Depression Harvey has regenerated into a tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico, with NASA tracking its cloud pattern and temperature. The National Hurricane Center predicts heavy rain accumulations of 10-15 inches over Texas and Louisiana, with storms potentially exceeding -63 degrees Fahrenheit, capable of generating heav...

Treating arthritis with algae

Researchers have identified a polysaccharide alginate from brown algae as a potential treatment for arthritis, slowing down cartilage degeneration and suppressing inflammatory reactions. Further research is needed to test the substance on animals and eventually humans.

Altered mitochondria associated with increased autism risk

A recent study suggests that variations in mitochondrial DNA originating from ancient human migrations may play a key role in predisposition to autism spectrum disorders. Individuals with specific European haplogroups had significantly higher risks of ASD compared to others.

Psychotic disorders and obesity: New report shows big waistlines are to blame

A first-of-its-kind study reveals that expanding waistlines and body fat distribution are key factors contributing to obesity in individuals with psychotic disorders. The research found that nearly two-thirds of those with schizophrenia and more than half of those with bipolar disorder were obese 20 years after their first hospitalizat...

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Most advanced space weather radar in the world to be built in the Arctic

The UK will build a cutting-edge space weather radar in the Arctic, providing unprecedented detail to understand space weather's effects on technology and society. The EISCAT_3D radar will measure the upper atmosphere and near-Earth space, helping scientists better comprehend the connections between Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.

Putting it to the test

Researchers have developed a rapid portable test for liver cancer that can detect the disease in two minutes and can be administered wherever the patient is. The test uses gold nanoparticles to trap biomarkers from biological fluids, making it a potential game-changer in combating this deadly disease.

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.

Personality drives purchasing of luxury goods

Research at University College London found that people on low incomes who are extraverted tend to spend more on luxury goods to compensate for their financial status. Introverts with similar incomes, however, do not exhibit this behavior, suggesting a relationship between personality and spending habits.

Mosquitoes fatally attracted to deadly, sweet-smelling potion

Researchers have created an insecticide potion that mimics the scent of flowers and nectar, luring mosquitoes into feeding on it, which is lethal. The 'Vectrax' formulation has shown promising results in suppressing malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases worldwide.

Tick-borne disease research receives global boost

The University of Liverpool's Tick Cell Biobank has received £940,000 funding to expand its tick cell line collection globally. The Biobank will establish outposts in South-East Asia, Africa and South America to support research into tick-borne diseases.

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.

What the world's tiniest 'monster truck' reveals

Researchers from Ohio University designed and built the Bobcat Nanowagon, a nanocar with a pseudorotaxane H-shaped frame and four wheels. It traveled 43nm on a gold track before getting stuck, earning a third-place showing in a competition that spurred interest in molecular machines.

Data mining finds more than expected beneath Andean Plateau

Seismologists have discovered that processes beneath the Andean Plateau produce far more continental rock than previously thought. The findings suggest that mountain-forming regions could create larger volumes of continental crust in less time, leading to significant changes in our understanding of Earth's geological history.

More education linked to better cognitive functioning later in life

A study led by University of California, Berkeley researchers found that higher levels of education are tied to better cognitive functioning later in life. The study analyzed data from around 196,000 Lumosity subscribers and found that education boosts performance more in areas such as reasoning than processing speed.

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.

Scientists discover common obesity and diabetes drug reduces rise in brain pressure

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have discovered that GLP-1 agonist extendin-4 significantly reduces brain pressure in an animal model, with effects lasting at least 24 hours. The treatment shows promise as a novel new way to lower brain pressure, potentially benefiting patients with conditions such as traumatic brain injury...

Answers needed on sly grog trade

Researchers at James Cook University found sophisticated tactics being used to smuggle illicit alcohol into remote Indigenous communities. Sly grog traders sell alcohol for inflated prices, often up to 11 times its retail value. The study highlights the need for collaborative responses involving law enforcement and social services.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Confederate submarine crew killed by their own weapon

The H.L. Hunley's explosive torpedo instantly killed its crew of eight due to a powerful shockwave that traveled through soft tissues, particularly lungs and brains. Researchers estimate the likelihood of fatal lung trauma to be at least 85% for each crew member.

Giving cancer-killing viruses a boost

A compound has been identified that enhances tumor-targeting viruses' ability to selectively kill liver cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. The oncolytic virus M1 was boosted by combining it with Eeyarestatin I, increasing its potency 3,600-fold against cancer cells in culture and animal models.

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.

Arsenic risk in Pakistan much greater than expected

Researchers discover high arsenic concentrations in groundwater supplies along the Indus River, posing a significant health risk to millions. The study suggests irrigation practices and soil pH may contribute to arsenic enrichment, highlighting the need for urgent testing and mitigation measures.

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.

Radiological crimes investigation

A global network of nuclear forensics experts has developed new analytical techniques to investigate radioactive material intercepts. The latest exercise, CMX-5, involved 20 labs from around the world and tested the capabilities of these new approaches.

Lack of REM sleep may lead to higher risk for dementia

A study published in Neurology found that less REM sleep and longer sleep latency are associated with a higher risk of developing dementia. Research followed 321 participants over 12 years, revealing a nine percent increase in all-cause dementia risk for each percentage reduction in REM sleep.

Root behavior changes as woody trees age

New research reveals that root extension rates vary depending on plant age and size, with younger plants extending roots more at night and older plants doing so during the day. This study contributes to our understanding of ontogeny, or the study of organisms from initiation to maturity.

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.