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Science News Archive July 2017


Page 1 of 37

Among gun owners, culturally tailored suicide prevention messages work best

A study by Oregon State University found that gun owners are more likely to engage in gun safety behaviors when given culturally tailored suicide prevention messages. The research suggests that messaging should respect the values and rights of gun owners, rather than using language that may inadvertently promote anti-firearm bias. Cult...

SourceOregon State University·JournalArchives of Suicide Research·DateJul 31, 2017

Industry steps up efforts to minimise impact of open display tobacco product ban

In Scotland, tobacco companies are using financial incentives to encourage retailers to prioritize their brands and maintain point-of-sale displays despite the ban. Researchers found that 17 out of 24 small independent retailers reported receiving assistance from tobacco companies to adapt their ganties before the ban took effect.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 31, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Methane-eating microbes may reduce release of gases as Antarctic ice sheets melt

A new study reveals that methane-eating microbes in Antarctica's subglacial Whillans Lake can consume nearly all released methane, potentially reducing its impact on the atmosphere. This process could have significant climatic implications and may play a critical role in mitigating the effects of melting Antarctic ice sheets.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 31, 2017

Coordinated care organizations lead to more timely prenatal care

A new study found that Oregon's CCO model significantly improves the timeliness of prenatal care for pregnant women on Medicaid. The study reveals that more women began prenatal care in the first trimester, particularly among white and Asian women and those in urban areas.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateJul 31, 2017

People find it difficult to judge how good their intuitions are

A study by psychologists at the University of Kent found that people's confidence in their intuitions does not necessarily reflect their actual ability to perform well in tasks that require intuitive thinking. Despite claiming to be intuitive, participants did not exhibit superior performance or grasp of underlying rules.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJul 31, 2017

Danish university and industry open a patent-free playground

Aarhus University researchers and industrial companies publish results and data on innovative Open Science platform, making basic research relevant to industries accessible. The platform breaks barriers and provides risk-free zone for companies to try out ideas, acquire latest university research and create unique products.

SourceAarhus University·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Cycad leaf physiology research needed

Recent reports on gymnosperms' slow photosynthetic use of sunflecks prompted a call for cycad species study. Experimental protocols should be defined from natural habitats to accurately represent species behavior.

SourceUniversity of Guam·JournalPlant Signaling & Behavior·DateJul 31, 2017

Metal instability achieves energy-efficient nanotechnology

Scientists at Osaka University and Italian researchers have created freestanding nanowires that can convert small levels of electrical power into mechanical oscillations at high frequencies. The design achieves unprecedented low power consumption, making it a significant step towards energy-efficient technologies.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Glaciers may have helped warm Earth

A new study suggests that glaciers may have played a role in releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, potentially warming the planet. The research found that glacial weathering increased the rate of carbon dioxide release, with oscillating glaciers changing atmospheric levels by up to 25 parts per million over 10,000 years.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2017

Shared housing, shared behavior in mouse model of autism

A mouse model of autism shows that social environment influences behaviors characteristic of ASD. Housing genetically modified mice with unmodified littermates alters their behavior, highlighting the impact of social hierarchy on ASD-like traits.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

What does trophy hunting contribute to wild lion conservation?

The article highlights significant 'unknowns' about trophy hunting's contribution to lion conservation, including the causes of lion mortality and the extent to which hunting affects land use. Innovative funding methods are needed to reverse species loss due to the income shortfall from hunting compared to other forms of tourism.

SourceWiley·JournalMammal Review·DateJul 31, 2017

New MRI contrast agent tested on big animals

Researchers developed a new non-toxic contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), surpassing gadolinium's limitations. The agent, PEG-IONCs, demonstrated high biocompatibility in rabbits, beagle dogs, and macaque monkeys, showing promise as a next-generation diagnostic tool.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJul 31, 2017

Single-photon emitter has promise for quantum info-processing

Researchers have produced single-photon emitters at room temperature using carbon nanotubes, enabling optically-based quantum information processing. The emitters can be tuned to telecommunications wavelengths, making them suitable for ultrasensitive sensing, metrology, and imaging applications.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Bold new approaches needed to shrink Gulf of Mexico dead zone and meet elusive goals

A new study predicts that shrinking the Gulf of Mexico dead zone will require a 59% reduction in nitrogen runoff, primarily through changes to agricultural practices. The study suggests that bold new approaches are needed to achieve this goal and meet the longstanding objective of reducing the dead zone by two-thirds.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2017

Heavier Asian Americans seen as 'more American,' study says

A study found that heavier Asian Americans are viewed as more American and subject to less prejudice compared to their thinner peers. Researchers believe this phenomenon is linked to common stereotypes about Asians being thin and Americans being heavy.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 31, 2017

Genetic testing helps detect cause of early life epilepsy

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that genetic testing is effective in diagnosing epilepsy in 40% of patients and 25% of those with unknown causes. Genetic sequencing tests have a higher diagnostic yield than chromosome microarray, allowing for more precise treatment options.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJul 31, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Citizen science volunteers driven by desire to learn

A new study found that citizen science volunteers are mainly motivated by a desire to learn and enhance their scientific knowledge. The research, led by the University of Portsmouth, surveyed 2000 online volunteers and discovered that this motivation was the number one driver for participation.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalNonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly·DateJul 31, 2017

Cell senescence is regulated by innate DNA sensing

Researchers discovered that innate immune system's DNA-sensing mechanism controls cellular senescence, promoting the secretion of inflammation-mediating proteins. This process plays a role in various contexts of senescence, including oxidative stress, oncogene signaling, and irradiation.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 31, 2017

Dinosaur-era plant found alive in North America for first time

A team of scientists from Drexel University has discovered a dinosaur-era plant, Lychnothamnus barbatus, alive in North America for the first time. The species was previously thought to be extinct and is now found in lakes across Wisconsin and Minnesota.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateJul 31, 2017

Benefits of investments in dikes worldwide known

A global framework study shows that new dikes can effectively address flood risk, with benefits outweighing costs. The research provides critical information for policymakers, identifying regions where efficient investment in flood protection is needed.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Exercise in early life has long-lasting benefits

Researchers found that early exercise can alter the way bones metabolize energy from food, reducing inflammation-linked genes. This 'bone memory' effect persists into mid-life, setting up a healthier response to high-fat diets.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateJul 31, 2017

'Invasive' species have been around much longer than believed

Researchers have discovered pollen evidence of Chrysocoma ciliata dating back 4,000 years, suggesting it may not be an invasive species. The plant's ability to thrive under drought conditions and colonize degraded landscapes has led some to question its status as an invasive species.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalBiological Invasions·DateJul 31, 2017

How DNA damage turns immune cells against cancer

Researchers discovered how DNA damage cues immune cells to arrive at cancer cells, leading to increased tumor response. Inhibiting cell division can prevent micronuclei formation and reduce immune responses to cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateJul 31, 2017

Stanford researchers identify biomarkers associated with chronic fatigue syndrome severity

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified biomarkers associated with chronic fatigue syndrome severity by analyzing 17 immune-system signaling proteins. These findings suggest that inflammation is a powerful driver of the disease and may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Internet searches for suicide after '13 Reasons Why'

Researchers found that internet search volumes for suicide increased by 19% after the series release, with 17 of 20 common queries showing higher-than-expected increases. Searches focused on suicidal ideation, such as 'how to commit suicide,' were particularly concerning.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 31, 2017

Breakthrough software teaches computer characters to walk, run, even play soccer

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a breakthrough algorithm called DeepLoco that enables computer characters to learn complex motor skills like walking and running through trial and error. The system uses deep reinforcement learning to allow characters to respond to their environment without hand-coding st...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateJul 31, 2017

Earth likely to warm more than 2 degrees this century

A new University of Washington study using statistical tools shows only a 5 percent chance that Earth will warm 2 degrees or less by the end of this century. The study suggests major, sustained effort on all fronts over the next 80 years is needed to achieve the goal of limiting warming to 2 degrees.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 31, 2017

Two degrees of warming already baked in

Researchers found that two more degrees of warming are already committed to by past emissions, regardless of current efforts. Even if all fossil fuel emissions stopped, warming would still reach about 2.3 degrees Fahrenheit by 2100.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Statistical analysis to explain mechanism in state of general anesthesia

Researchers have deciphered the mechanism of general anesthesia using statistical analysis, revealing oscillations that disrupt brain communication. The discovery enables real-time brain state monitoring and may lead to new recovery methods for elderly patients experiencing cognitive dysfunction after anesthesia.

SourceAmerican Statistical Association·DateJul 31, 2017

How camouflaged birds decide where to blend in

A recent study by Exeter and Cambridge universities found that individual wild birds adjust their nest choices based on their specific markings. These adjustments enhance the birds' camouflage in relation to their predators, highlighting the link between behavior and appearance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 31, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Storm Emily before and after landfall

Tropical Storm Emily formed in the Gulf of Mexico on July 30, with NASA's AIRS instrument capturing high cloud top temperatures indicating potential for heavy rainfall. The storm made landfall in Florida on July 31, bringing maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and forecasted to weaken into a tropical depression.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 31, 2017

Higher dementia risk associated with birth in high stroke mortality states

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that individuals born in high stroke mortality states have a higher risk of developing dementia. Black participants had the highest risk, with cumulative 20-year dementia risks at age 65 being 30.13% compared to 21.8% for those not born in high stroke mortality states.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJul 31, 2017

NASA-NOAA satellite sees Typhoon Noru in infrared light

Typhoon Noru showed extremely cold cloud top temperatures as low as -117.7 degrees Celsius in its eye, indicating potential for heavy rain generation. The storm was located near Iwo To Island, Japan, with maximum sustained winds of 143.8 mph and moving to the northwest.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

How mice babies ensure mother's protection

A genetic study identified neuronal circuits responsible for mouse pups' ultrasonic calls, which summon their mothers. These findings may shed light on the development and manifestation of speech disorders in humans.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2017

Taboo around vaginal bleeding endangers women's health

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health highlights the dangers of vaginal bleeding taboos in low-income countries, where limited access to clean water and sanitation exacerbates the issue. The researchers emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach addressing vaginal bleeding across the life course.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateJul 31, 2017

Picture perfect

A new system called Computational Zoom enables photographers to compose images post-capture by controlling object positions and sizes. This allows for novel image compositions, including automatically combining wide-angle and telephoto perspectives into a single multi-perspective image.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Toward a better sweat test for babies with cystic fibrosis

Researchers developed a new type of sweat test that can overcome the challenge of ambiguous results in current tests. The test identifies alternative molecules found in sweat associated with CF, providing staging and prognostic information.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Study finds promise in new tactic to curb obesity: Address physician bias

A new educational initiative at Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine has significantly reduced medical students' negative attitudes toward people with obesity. The program emphasizes the complexities of obesity and focuses on attaining health instead of weight loss, leading to improved patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJul 31, 2017

A semiconductor that can beat the heat

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have discovered a unique thermoelectric material, cesium tin iodide, that can block most heat transfer while preserving high electrical conductivity. This rare pairing has potential applications in electronic cooling, turbine engines, and other fields.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2017

Geologist offers new clues to cause of world's greatest extinction

A study by James Muirhead and colleagues suggests that the formation of intrusive igneous rock sills triggered the End-Permian Mass Extinction. The team found that extreme heat from sill emplacement exposed sediments to contact metamorphism, liberating massive greenhouse gas volumes that drove extinction.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2017

Tobacco industry steps up tactics to reduce impact of display ban

A University of Stirling study found that tobacco companies are offering retailers cash bonuses and other rewards to promote their brands in Scotland. The researchers discovered that retailers were being incentivized to boost sales of tobacco products despite the ban on open displays.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 31, 2017

Stem cells may help improve corneal wound healing

A new review examines the role of various stem cells in corneal wound healing, highlighting similarities and differences in the process. Stem cell transplantation may fine-tune wound healing and provide benefits for patients.

SourceWiley·JournalStem Cells·DateJul 31, 2017
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.

Rusting fool's gold in glaciers a sign of increased carbon

Researchers found elevated sulfur acidification in glacial samples due to oxidized pyrite, leading to CO2 release into the atmosphere. This process may play a role in regulating Earth's climate over long cycles.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2017

Materials emitted by water pipe-repair method may pose health risks

A recently conducted study revealed that the cured-in-place pipe repair (CIPP) method can emit hazardous chemicals into the air, posing potential health hazards to workers and the public. The research found a complex mixture of organic vapor, water vapor, and liquid droplets of water, which can cause short- and long-term health impacts.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 31, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

An Earth-like atmosphere may not survive Proxima b's orbit

A computer model suggests that Proxima b's atmosphere could be lost 10,000 times faster than Earth's due to extreme ultraviolet radiation from its host star. The study considers factors like thermosphere temperature and magnetic field orientation to understand the impact of stellar physics on habitability.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 31, 2017