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Science News Archive July 2017


Page 16 of 37

No battery, no wire, no problem

Researchers at Harvard University have created battery-free folding robots that can perform complex movements using wireless magnetic fields and shape-memory alloy coils. The robots, inspired by origami, use passive electronic components to deliver an electric current, eliminating the need for batteries or wired connections.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Surprising genetic variety in childhood brain cancer

Researchers have identified a wide genetic variety in medulloblastoma, the most common type of childhood brain cancer. This discovery could lead to more precise subgroups and individualized treatments, improving curative chances and reducing side effects.

Hitting the bull's eye on crop nutrient requirements

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a method to match crop nitrogen requirements with a precision of 10-20 kg N/ha. This method uses a reference curve based on comparisons of leaf area and leaf reflectance at different light wavelengths, allowing for more accurate nitrogen application and reducing agricultural emissions.

Cornell researchers uncover fresh role for nitric oxide

A new study by Cornell University chemists reveals a critical step in the nitrification process where nitric oxide acts as a chemical prelude to nitrite. This discovery could lead to more efficient fertilization practices and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

A uranium-based compound improves manufacturing of nitrogen products

Researchers at EPFL have developed a uranium-based compound that enables nitrogen fixation to occur in ambient conditions, paving the way for more efficient catalysts and new concepts for metals beyond uranium. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds.

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.

Why are dogs such doting companions? It's in their genes

Researchers at Oregon State University identified a genetic marker linked to Williams-Beuren syndrome, a disorder characterized by hypersocial behavior. The study found domesticated dogs exhibit an exaggerated motivation to seek social contact compared to wolves, leading to prolonged proximity and gazing at humans.

Manipulating electron spins without loss of information

Researchers from the University of Basel create a chip that maintains and transmits electron spin information over large distances using electrical voltages. The technique overcomes spin decay, allowing for targeted spin manipulation without information loss.

Imaging of Scar Tissue Formation

Researchers have created a new gadolinium-based probe for noninvasive monitoring of lung fibrogenesis, which can lead to scarring. The probe targets allysine, an amino acid indicative of active collagen cross-linking, and displays high target selectivity in both test tube and real mouse models.

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.

Antiaromatic molecule displays record electrical conductance

Researchers have discovered an organic material with record-high electrical conductance, exceeding that of traditional metals and semiconductors. The antiaromatic molecule displays superior conductivity due to its unique electronic structure, which allows it to efficiently transport electrons.

Jefferson researchers identify new target for chronic pain

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered a novel way phosphorylation affects protein function and localization, leading to increased pain sensitivity. The study offers a new target for developing alternative pain medications and provides a tool for studying synaptic development and pathology.

Is bone strength hereditary?

A new study suggests bone strength is hereditary, with its genetic determinants similar to those affecting bone mineral density. This discovery has implications for understanding fracture risk and developing prevention strategies.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sea cave preserves 5,000-year snapshot of tsunamis

An international team has found the world's most pristine record of tsunamis in a sea cave in Indonesia, spanning 5,000 years and revealing highly erratic tsunami recurrence. The discovery provides new insights into seismic activity along the Sunda Megathrust.

Nipple temperature may help guide newborns to breastfeed

Research suggests that a temperature gradient around the mother's nipple can facilitate breast crawl in newborns. This study, published in Acta Paediatrica, provides new insights into maternal-infant thermal identification and communication.

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.

Silk 'micrococoons' could be used in biotechnology and medicine

A team of researchers has successfully manufactured microscopic versions of silkworm cocoons, which can store and protect sensitive molecular materials. The tiny capsules, made from silk nano-fibrils, have the potential to increase the stability and lifetime of antibodies used in pharmaceuticals for treating severe diseases.

Too many bats are being killed for research

A study highlights the need to limit bat collection for scientific research due to their slow reproduction rates and dwindling populations. Modern technology can often replace killing bats, allowing for the preservation of these species.

Supramolecular materials with a time switch

Researchers developed self-disposing supramolecular materials with tunable lifetimes, mimicking biological processes. These materials autonomously degrade after added energy is exhausted, enabling reusable cycles and diverse applications such as drug delivery and tissue stabilization.

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.

The dangers of driving after restricted sleep and moderate alcohol intake

Combining moderate alcohol consumption with moderate sleep restriction leads to increased deficits in attention and drowsiness compared to either factor alone. Performance impairment remains apparent even with frequent breaks, emphasizing the need for adequate rest before driving after consuming alcohol.

Here's a tip: Indented cement shows unique properties

Rice University scientists found that indented tobermorite responds differently than bulk material, with layers bonding through indentation remaining intact after force removal. The study reveals three molecular mechanisms at work in tobermorite, which are also responsible for the strength of calcium-silicate-hydrate mix in cement.

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.

How off-line retailers can fight back

New research published in the Journal of Retailing shows that offline retailers can use online data to identify consumers who value product touch and target them with marketing strategies. By understanding consumers' mental representations of products, retailers can offer free trials and other incentives to boost sales.

Smart toys without the batteries

Researchers have developed lightweight, flexible, and simple TENGs from recycled plastics that can generate electricity in self-powered smart toys. The technology has shown promise in creating interactive games without the need for batteries, benefiting children's entertainment and education.

Study examines birth defects following 9/11 terrorist attacks

A recent study analyzed data from California Birth Defects Monitoring Program and found that male infants had lower rates of birth defects after the 9/11 attacks. The researchers suggest that large population stressors like 9/11 may select against weaker male fetuses.

New animal models for hepatitis C could pave the way for a vaccine

Researchers at Rockefeller University have developed a new animal model for hepatitis C using a virus closely related to the human disease, allowing for study of disease progression and immune system response. This breakthrough could accelerate hepatitis C vaccine development and lead to the eradication of the disease.

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.

Birds avoid crossing roads to prevent predation

A new study reveals birds are less likely to cross roads due to predation fears and territorial boundaries, with smaller forest-dependent species being the most affected. The findings highlight the need for measures to connect fragmented forests across roads, allowing wildlife to move freely.

Smart walk assist improves rehabilitation

A clinical study showed that patients wearing a smart walking assist immediately improved their locomotor abilities and could perform daily activities without support. The algorithm tailors assistance to each patient based on leg movement, stride length, and muscle activity to promote natural walking patterns.

Scientists identify new way cells turn off genes

Researchers have identified a new mechanism for silencing imprinted genes in cells, which could shed light on developmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome. The discovery also raises questions about the difficulty of cloning mammals, with potential implications for treating developmental failures.

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.

Many pet owners unable to spot an out of hours vet emergency

A study found that 67% of pet owners surveyed couldn't accurately recognize veterinary emergencies, with many calling out-of-hours services for convenience or reassurance. Veterinary practices can help by providing guidance on emergency conditions and training receptionists in telephone triage.

Nanoparticles could spur better LEDs, invisibility cloaks

A University of Michigan team has created a method to add metallic nanoparticles into semiconductors with virtually no added manufacturing cost. The process enhances LED lighting efficiency and allows for precise control over the distribution of particles, potentially enabling future applications such as invisibility cloaks.

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.

Researchers find path to discovering new topological materials

A team of researchers has found a way to determine whether a crystal is a topological insulator and predict its structure and composition. This discovery reveals that topological materials are much more common than previously believed, with thousands of new candidates identified.

A personalized rehabilitation algorithm helps stroke patients walk again

Scientists developed an algorithm for a robotic harness that provides personalized support to address motor defects in stroke and spinal cord injury patients. Wearing the harness allows participants to walk with abilities comparable to healthy individuals, offering a promising alternative to traditional rehabilitation programs.

Human in vitro fertilization could evolve thanks to piglet study

Researchers at the University of Missouri have made a breakthrough in human in vitro fertilization (IVF) after discovering a method to improve success rates in pigs. By adding specific growth factors to a special liquid medium, they were able to increase efficiency and quality of embryos, potentially reducing costs for IVF treatments.

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.

Thawing permafrost releases old greenhouse gas

A study in the Mackenzie Delta found that thawing permafrost releases high amounts of geological methane, contributing significantly to climate change. The research team discovered strong emissions solely where permafrost is discontinuous, primarily from deeper geologic sources.

The price of increasing health-care costs

A new study by Harvard University suggests that reducing insurance coverage for mental health treatment leads to increased costs for the most severely ill, as they turn to acute and involuntary care. The reform also resulted in a decrease in regular mental health care usage, but with a significant increase in acute care usage among tho...

Study looks at physicians who prescribe methadone

A new study reveals that a small group of physicians in Ontario prescribe the majority of medications used to treat opioid addiction. High-volume prescribers see large numbers of patients daily and bill the province hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.

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.

AOSSM presents prestigious research awards and grants during annual meeting

The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) announces its annual meeting, featuring the presentation of research awards and grants totaling over $300,000. The grants include the Steven P. Arnoczky Young Investigator Grant, Sandy Kirkley Grant, AOSSM/Sanofi Osteoarthritis Grant, Fellow Research Award in Basic Science, F...

Social interaction affects cancer patients' response to treatment

Researchers found that cancer patients who interacted with other patients undergoing chemotherapy were more likely to survive for five years or more after treatment. The study suggests a possible link between social interaction and stress response in the context of cancer treatment.

New robotic lab tracking toxicity of Lake Erie algal bloom

A new robotic lake-bottom laboratory is tracking the levels of toxic cyanobacteria in Lake Erie to provide advance warning to municipal drinking water managers. The goal is to prevent another water crisis like the 2014 Toledo event, where over 400,000 residents were left without safe drinking water.

Simulation reveals universal signature of chaos in ultracold reactions

Researchers have performed a quantum-mechanical simulation of an ultracold chemical reaction, revealing the underlying chaotic dynamics of the system. The study's findings have important implications for controlled chemistry experiments and technological applications in quantum computing and sensing.

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.

Damming and lost connectivity for fish in northeastern ecosystems

The article highlights the devastating impact of damming and lost connectivity on anadromous forage fish in northeastern ecosystems. The authors report that these fish exist at only a tiny fraction of their previous populations due to habitat loss and fragmented landscapes.

Aging power plants provide Trump administration with risks and opportunities

The retirement of aging power plants will complicate achieving long-term carbon dioxide emission reduction targets and require significant capital investments. The study found that younger coal plants tend to retire earlier than older ones, creating an imbalance in investment emphasis between generating capacity and emissions reductions.

Destruction of wetlands linked to algal blooms in Great Lakes

Researchers from University of Waterloo found that small wetlands have a significant role in preventing excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from reaching waterbodies. The study suggests that protection efforts should focus on preserving smaller wetlands, which are more effective at filtering environmental contaminants.

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.