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Science News for August 16, 2017


Fizzy soda water could be key to clean manufacture of flat wonder material: Graphene

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new method to manufacture graphene using carbon dioxide, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals and producing a more environmentally friendly process. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of graphene, a key material in sensors and flexible devices.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateAug 16, 2017

Whales turn tail at ocean mining noise

A new study found that humpback whales avoid loud ocean mining noise triggered by seismic air gun surveys, suggesting a clear avoidance reaction within a certain distance from the vessel. The research aims to improve current mitigation measures to prevent adverse effects of seismic air gun noise on large whale behavior.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 16, 2017

Blood marker may predict postmenopausal women's risk of bone fractures

Researchers discovered a blood marker that can predict the risk of bone fractures in postmenopausal women, independent of other measures. High levels of periostin protein fragments were found to be associated with an increased risk of fractures, suggesting they reflect additional bone properties.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 16, 2017

Gold shines through properties of nano biosensors

Researchers have discovered that fluorescence in ligand-protected gold nanoclusters is an intrinsic property of the gold particles. The study used Au20 nanoparticles with a tetrahedral structure and found intense fluorescence at a wavelength of 739.2 nanometers, indicating that the metal core is responsible for the phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 16, 2017

Scientists give star treatment to lesser-known cells crucial for brain development

A new study published in Neuron confirms that lab-grown astrocytes mature at the same rate as human brains, providing a valuable technique to investigate their role in brain development and disease. The findings have significant implications for understanding the roots of neurological disorders such as schizophrenia and autism.

Boron nitride foam soaks up carbon dioxide

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material that can absorb up to 340% of its weight in carbon dioxide, making it a promising solution for capturing greenhouse gases. The boron nitride foam is highly porous and can be tuned for specific applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 16, 2017

Biophysics explains how immune cells kill bacteria

Researchers developed moving subtrajectory analysis to study TCR microclusters, revealing kinetic and spatial details of CD3 and CD45 behavior. The study shows that the two molecules exhibit distinct mobility states, depending on their location relative to the microcluster, providing new insights into T cell activation mechanisms.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2017

Voter behavior influenced by hot weather

A study found that increases in state-level temperatures lead to higher voter turnout and votes for the incumbent party. For every 10C increase, voter turnout rises by 1.4%., The study also reveals a rise in temperature motivates citizens to vote for smaller parties while government popularity soars.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateAug 16, 2017

CU Anschutz and UC San Diego researchers find creosote bush could treat deadly infections

Researchers from CU Anschutz and UC San Diego found that creosote bush compounds exhibit potent anti-parasitic activity against Giardia and Naegleria fowleri, two deadly parasites responsible for giardiasis and primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. The discovery could lead to a more effective treatment option for these infections.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateAug 16, 2017

Study calls for action to help adolescents with diabetes transition to adult care

A new study from McGill University Health Centre highlights significant gaps in transition care services for young adults with diabetes in Quebec. Pediatric care providers reported lack of standardized policies and limited communication between settings, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to improve the transition process.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateAug 16, 2017

Why teens take risks: It's not a deficit in brain development

A recent literature review suggests that adolescent risk-taking behavior is not due to a brain development deficit, but rather exploration and learning. The review highlights that most adolescents pass through this period without significant problems, while a smaller subset is at higher risk of unhealthy outcomes.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalDevelopmental Cognitive Neuroscience·DateAug 16, 2017

Going 'green' with plant-based resins

Researchers developed a new curing agent made from castor oil components that strengthened a soybean-based epoxy thermoset, increasing its durability and heat resistance. The material also allows light to pass through, potentially ideal for applications like solar cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMacromolecules·DateAug 16, 2017

Survey examines pubic hair grooming-related injuries

A national survey of pubic hair grooming habits found that 76.1% of participants reported a history of grooming, with 25.6% experiencing injuries such as cuts, burns, and rashes. The study's findings may contribute to the development of clinical guidelines for safe pubic hair removal.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 16, 2017

Study: Playing smartphone app aids concussion recovery in teens

A mobile health app called SuperBetter improved concussion symptoms and optimism in teens who used it daily alongside standard medical treatment. The app incorporates social game mechanics and a heroic narrative to help teens cope with unresolved concussion symptoms, promoting healthy habits and reduced risk of depression.

SourceMediaSource·JournalBrain Injury·DateAug 16, 2017

NASA's infrared look at Hurricane Gert

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder instrument detected very cold cloud top temperatures exceeding minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit, suggesting the presence of intense thunderstorms that can generate heavy rain. The hurricane's center was located near Bermuda and Halifax, Nova Scotia, with forecasted strengthening and weakening phases.

VA targets healthcare equity for all veterans -- new research on reducing health disparities presented in Medical Care

A recent VA study presents original research and perspectives informing efforts to ensure high-quality patient-centered care for vulnerable veteran populations. The research highlights disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ veterans, homeless veterans, and others.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateAug 16, 2017

The environmental injustice of beauty

Research highlights the disproportionate impact of beauty product-related chemicals on women of color, who face higher levels of exposure and health risks. The study suggests that marketing practices and societal pressure contribute to this issue, emphasizing the need for improved testing and disclosure to advance environmental justice.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 16, 2017

Smart electrical grids more vulnerable to cyber attacks

A recent paper analyzes security issues in smart electrical grids, highlighting potential consequences of cyber attacks on advanced metering infrastructures. The report provides crucial keys to ensuring the security of our power supply.

SourceElsevier·JournalInternational Journal of Critical Infrastructure Protection·DateAug 16, 2017

Researchers clarify mystery about proposed battery material

A team at MIT has carried out detailed tests that resolve the questions surrounding a compound called lithium iodide, a possible solution to some of the lithium-air battery's problems. The study finds that LiI can enhance water's reactivity and interfere with charging, but suggests ways to suppress these reactions to make it work better.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateAug 16, 2017

Supermassive black holes feed on cosmic jellyfish

A team of astronomers used the MUSE instrument on the VLT to study how gas can be stripped from galaxies, focusing on extreme jellyfish galaxies. Six out of seven jellyfish galaxies were found to host a supermassive black hole feeding on surrounding gas.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017

Mosses used to evaluate atmospheric conditions in urban areas

Researchers have developed a method using mosses (bryophytes) to evaluate atmospheric conditions in urban areas, including nitrogen pollution severity and drought stress. The study found that bryophytes can indicate the degree of nitrogen pollution and drought levels, making them a valuable tool for assessing environmental changes.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalLandscape and Urban Planning·DateAug 16, 2017

Modeling human psychology

A mathematical model of embodied consciousness predicts states of consciousness and behavior, analyzing free energy and projective geometry. The model, developed by an international team of experts, has potential industrial applications in robotics, AI, and healthcare.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateAug 16, 2017

Multicolor MRIs could aid disease detection

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a new multicolor MRI method that enables simultaneous detection of two different contrast agents, allowing for immediate comparisons of diseased and healthy tissue. This breakthrough has the potential to transform molecular imaging and aid disease diagnosis.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2017