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Science News for July 24, 2017


'Hindcasting' study investigates the extreme 2013 Colorado flood

A recent study found that climate change significantly contributed to the severity of the 2013 Colorado flood, with heavy rainfall increased by 30% due to a warmer atmosphere. The researchers used high-resolution models to 'hindcast' the event and attributed the increased precipitation to human-induced climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalWeather and Climate Extremes·DateJul 24, 2017

Satellite shows Tropical Storm Greg losing shape

Tropical Storm Greg is losing shape due to dry air in the surrounding atmosphere, resulting in a less-rounded tropical cyclone. Maximum sustained winds are near 45 mph with higher gusts, weakening is forecast during the next 48 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 24, 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.

Breast cancer patients can use antiperspirants during radiotherapy

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania challenges common advice given to breast cancer patients, suggesting that antiperspirants can be used safely during radiotherapy. The study found no significant difference in radiation skin dose absorbed by patients with or without antiperspirants.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology·DateJul 24, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Expert: Statin denial is an Internet-driven cult with deadly consequences

The American College of Physicians states that internet-driven pseudoscience is a major contributor to low statin adherence rates, despite their well-documented benefits. Continuing statin prescriptions after adverse reactions may reduce cardiovascular events and death risk.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 24, 2017

Fungi that evolved to eat wood offer new biomass conversion tool

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism used by brown rot fungi to break down biomass, using chelators and generating hydroxyl radicals to produce simple building-block chemicals. This method has potential use in bio-refineries for biomass conversion into platform chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalBiotechnology for Biofuels·DateJul 24, 2017

Molecular hitchhiker on human protein signals tumors to self-destruct

Researchers at Vanderbilt University developed a novel gene therapy delivery system that uses a human protein called albumin to target cancer cells. The approach overcomes common barriers to successful gene therapy, including drug resistance and toxicity.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017

Too little vitamin D may hinder recovery of injured corneas

Vitamin D deficiency may impair corneal healing in individuals with underlying health issues, such as diabetes. Research suggests that vitamin D plays a role in cell communication and connectivity, which is essential for proper wound healing.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 24, 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.

Aggressive UTI bacteria hijack copper, feed off it

E. coli bacteria hijack trace amounts of copper in the body to fuel growth and reproduce, a finding that could lead to new treatments for hard-to-treat UTIs. The 'nutritional passivation' strategy involves binding to metals like nickel, cobalt, and chromium to bring in controlled amounts of essential nutrients.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 24, 2017

Scientists enlist baker's yeast in a hunt for new medicines

A new method developed by an international research team uses yeast cells to speed up drug discovery by linking compounds to cellular processes they target. The study found that natural compounds derived from soil microbes hold promise as potential medicines against various diseases, including infections and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 24, 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.

First basic physics simulation of impact of neutrals on turbulence

Physicists at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have modeled how recycled neutral atoms enhance turbulence driven by the ion temperature gradient, cooling plasma and reducing rotation rates. The results could lead to improved understanding of plasma performance in future tokamaks and international fusion facilities like ITER.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateJul 24, 2017

New math equation predicts acceleration-induced cavitation

Researchers at Utah State University have developed a new math formula that accurately predicts the onset of cavitation in fluids accelerated over short periods. This breakthrough can improve the durability of water pipes and ship propellers, reducing damage from cavitation.

SourceUtah State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017

Researchers develop new method to generate human antibodies

Researchers have developed a new method to generate specific human antibodies in the laboratory using nanoparticles. This technique can produce high-affinity antibodies within days, offering potential for rapid therapeutic antibody production and accelerated vaccine development.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 24, 2017

Tai chi may help prevent falls in older and at-risk adults

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that tai chi significantly reduced the rate of falls by 43% compared to other interventions. Tai chi also showed promise in reducing injurious falls risk, with a 50% reduction over short-term follow-up.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Undetected infection

A study found that 7% of healthy Santa Barbara residents tested positive for raccoon roundworm antibodies, highlighting a previously undetected human infection risk. The parasite can survive over a year in the environment and cause severe health effects, including blindness or brain damage.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJul 24, 2017

Study identifies new brain death pathway in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified a new way for brain cells to become fated to die during Alzheimer's disease, linked to the activation of a biological pathway called necroptosis. The study found that necroptosis is closely linked with Alzheimer's severity, cognitive decline and extreme loss of tissue and brain weight.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 24, 2017

FSU researcher paves new path toward preventing obesity

A Florida State University researcher has found a strong connection between an unstable childhood and a higher risk of obesity in adulthood. By applying the Life History Theory perspective, Jon Maner discovered that people with unpredictable childhoods tend to adopt a fast-life-history strategy, prioritizing short-term gratification ov...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 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.

Tropical Storm Kulap forms a fist on satellite image

NASA's Suomi NPP satellite captured an image of Tropical Storm Kulap, revealing a spiral of thunderstorms forming a clenched fist shape. The storm was moving west-northwest at 17.2 mph with maximum sustained winds near 51.7 mph.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 24, 2017

Swaziland survey shows impressive progress in confronting the HIV epidemic

The second Swaziland HIV Incidence Measurement Survey (SHIMS2) reveals significant progress in combating the HIV epidemic, with a doubling of population viral load suppression since 2011. The survey found nearly half fewer new HIV infections among adults aged 18-49 years compared to 2011.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateJul 24, 2017

Allowable 'carbon budget' most likely overestimated

Researchers found that using a true non-industrially influenced baseline could reduce the available carbon budget for meeting the 2°C warming limit. The study suggests that assuming a late 19th-century baseline may be underestimating the warming already taken place.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 24, 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.

Scientists capture first image of major brain receptor in action

Researchers captured three-dimensional snapshots of the AMPA-subtype glutamate receptor in action, shedding light on its role in memory and learning. The study's findings provide new insights into the fundamental process involved in brain function.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2017

GSA publication advocates oral health promotion across professions

The Gerontological Society of America has released a white paper making six recommendations to promote oral health in older adults, including education, integrated interprofessional programs, and improving access to dental care. The recommendations aim to create a culture of oral health champions across all professions.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateJul 24, 2017

Could 'cocktail geoengineering' save the climate?

Researchers used models to simulate the effectiveness of a combined set of geoengineering tools in reducing warming and precipitation changes. The study found that deploying both methods in concert could decrease global warming to pre-industrial levels, but with substantial regional variations in rainfall.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Eye test could help diagnose autism

A new study suggests that an eye test could be a useful tool in diagnosing Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by assessing the ability of individuals to adapt saccade amplitudes. This test may indicate deficits in the brain's emotional and social development areas, which are often impaired in individuals with ASD.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateJul 24, 2017

Obamacare led to gains for children, but gaps persist for Latino kids

New research shows that Obamacare significantly improved health insurance coverage and access to care for US youth, with over half a million Latino children gaining insurance. However, disparities remain, with Latino children still more than twice as likely to lack insurance compared to white and black youth.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateJul 24, 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.

Mice feel others' pain -- literally

A study found that mice exhibit hyperalgesia when housed with withdrawal mice, and inhibiting a specific brain region reverses this effect. The findings suggest a neural overlap between physically-induced and socially-transferred hyperalgesia.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 24, 2017

Scientists spy new evidence of water in the moon's interior

Scientists have discovered water in ancient volcanic deposits on the Moon's surface, finding that nearly all large pyroclastic deposits contain high amounts of trapped water. This bolsters the idea that the lunar mantle may be more water-rich than previously thought, with implications for future lunar exploration.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 24, 2017

Child living with HIV maintains remission without drugs since 2008

A nine-year-old South African child has suppressed HIV virus without anti-HIV drugs for eight and a half years, according to the NIH-funded study. The child received early limited anti-HIV treatment in infancy and was found to have maintained undetectable levels of HIV despite not receiving ongoing therapy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 24, 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.

Reaching black men in barbershops could lead to early detection of colorectal cancer

A new community-based program using patient navigators in barbershops has been shown to increase early detection of colorectal cancer among black men. The study found that participants who received help were twice as likely to get screened, compared to those who did not receive extra support.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 24, 2017

Satellite view of a compact Hurricane Hilary

Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a hurricane on July 24, with organized winds extending up to 10 miles from the center and higher gusts. The National Hurricane Center expects Hilary to become a major hurricane on Tuesday, July 25.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 24, 2017

UC research examines lung cell turnover as risk factor & target for treatment of influenza pneumonia

Research at the University of Cincinnati reveals that stimuli inducing lung cell division increase the spread of influenza to the alveoli, making these cells a vulnerable target. Interventions preventing alveolar cell division reduce mortality in animal models, offering potential prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for influenza pn...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Neuroticism may postpone death for some

A longitudinal study of over 500,000 UK participants found that higher neuroticism reduces the risk of death for those in fair or poor health. A specific aspect of neuroticism related to worry and vulnerability was associated with lower mortality, regardless of self-reported health.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 24, 2017

Rainforest metropolis casts 1,000 km shadow on wildlife

A new study published in PNAS reveals that urban food demand in the Amazon can impact wildlife as far as 1,000 km away from the city. Researchers found a 50% reduction in fish size and catch rate near Manaus due to overfishing by city-based boats, which also led to larger fish being more common and easier to catch further away.

SourceLancaster University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017

Experimental HIV vaccine regimen is well-tolerated, elicits immune responses

An investigational HIV vaccine regimen was well-tolerated and generated immune responses against HIV in healthy adults, according to the APPROACH trial. The results support further development of candidate vaccines and plans for a larger trial in southern Africa to evaluate safety and efficacy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Additional studies needed to evaluate CVD risks of hormone therapy for transgender patients

New narrative review calls for additional research to better understand cardiovascular disease (CVD) and risk factors in transgender individuals receiving long-term cross-sex hormone therapy. Studies suggest worsening cardiovascular risk factors in transgender men and increased thromboembolic risk in transgender women.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 24, 2017

AAP counsels pediatricians to focus on clusters of cardiometabolic risk factors to help obese kids

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends focusing on clusters of cardiometabolic risk factors, such as high blood sugar, hypertension, and obesity, to identify overweight or obese children at highest risk for cardiovascular and metabolic complications. Pediatricians should target youth with multiple component risk factors for more...

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 24, 2017

Infected insects cause a stink

Researchers at UCR discovered that infected insects emit an odor called prenol that repels nematodes looking for a new host. This finding supports the use of nematodes as a tool for controlling crop pests.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 24, 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.

Anti-cancer chemotherapeutic agent inhibits glioblastoma growth and radiation resistance

Researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism that maintains glioma stem cells, which are responsible for tumorigenesis, treatment resistance, and tumor recurrence in glioblastoma. A small molecule inhibitor CMP3a selectively inhibits NEK2 kinase activity to promote tumor growth and radiation resistance.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 24, 2017

What do sex in moss and neurons have in common?

Researchers discover moss sperm uses glutamate receptors to navigate towards female organs, fertilize eggs and develop spores. The study also shows that glutamate receptors play a crucial role in controlling gene expression essential for spore development.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2017

Study: Indian monsoons have strengthened over past 15 years

The Indian summer monsoons have strengthened in the last 15 years over north central India, reversing a 50-year drying period. This increase in monsoon rainfall is attributed to a shift in India's land and sea temperatures, with higher land temperatures combining with lower ocean temperatures.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 24, 2017

Does the Affordable Care Act impact patient visits in the emergency department?

Researchers found that Medicaid expansion under the ACA reduced total emergency department visits in Maryland by nearly 36,000, with a 6% increase in Medicaid-covered visits and a 6% decrease in uninsured patient visits. The study suggests that while the ACA did not immediately reduce emergency department utilization, it provides incre...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

UMD engineers invent the first bio-compatible, ion current battery

Researchers at UMD developed a new battery type that produces ionic electrical energy used by humans, powering brain functions and muscle movements. The battery uses grass to store energy and can be run at any voltage, making it suitable for medical devices and potential applications in neuroscience.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2017

New therapeutic approach for difficult-to-treat subtype of ovarian cancer identified

Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered a potential new therapeutic strategy for ovarian clear cell carcinoma, a difficult-to-treat form of ovarian cancer. By targeting the activity of histone deacetylase 6, a protein that suppresses tumor suppressive functions, they were able to increase apoptosis in tumor cells and reduce...

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 24, 2017

Immune cells the missing ingredient in new bladder cancer treatment

Researchers identified a cellular signaling pathway blocking immune cell infiltration into bladder tumors, explaining the limited success of checkpoint immunotherapy. The finding suggests targeting this pathway could enhance treatment effectiveness when combined with checkpoint immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2017

Weight in adolescence may affect colorectal cancer risk

A new study has found a link between adolescent obesity and an increased risk of developing colon and rectal cancer in adulthood. The study analyzed data from over 1.7 million Israeli males and females, finding that being overweight or obese at age 17 was associated with a significantly higher risk of colorectal cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJul 24, 2017

Three new 'club-tailed' scorpions join the tree of life

Researchers have revised the understanding of a large group of Neotropical 'club-tailed' scorpions, revealing two new genera and three new species. The findings provide insight into the evolution and classification of these ancient arthropods, which are among the oldest living terrestrial species on Earth.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalBulletin of the American Museum of Natural History·DateJul 24, 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.

Chances to treat childhood dementia

Childhood dementia, an inherited disorder affecting brain metabolism, shows promise in treating with immunomodulators. Inflammation of the brain is a key feature, and drugs like fingolimod and teriflunomide have shown therapeutic effects in mouse models.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJul 24, 2017

Exposure to violence hinders short-term memory, cognitive control

A study published in PNAS found that exposure to violent episodes hinders short-term memory and cognitive control, with significant impacts on school performance, job prospects, and overall life success. Researchers examined civilians in Colombia, finding long-lasting effects of violence on cognition and memory recall.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017

Molecular archaeology

A new phylogenetic tree resolves key relationships among vertebrates, including the identification of lungfishes as closest living relatives of land vertebrates. The study uses a novel set of analyses for building large-scale genomic datasets.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Working around spinal injuries

Researchers found that rats partially recovered hind limb movement using cycling, semi-load bearing treadmill training, and serotonin treatment without healing the spinal cord break. The body re-routes nerve cell outputs to control muscles and stiffens back muscles to support weight and independent steps.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateJul 24, 2017

The coast is not so clear

A new study synthesizes research on coastal armoring and its ecological effects, revealing gaps in knowledge and highlighting the need for more studies. The study evaluates a conceptual model that predicts ecological responses to armoring across various soft sediment ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·DateJul 24, 2017

Shining rings: A new material emits white light when exposed to electricity

Scientists at Nagoya University developed a new material that conducts electricity and emits white light when exposed to electricity. The 'responsive porous host' method allows for predictable synthesis of stimuli-responsive materials with potential applications in memory devices, artificial muscles, and drug delivery systems.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 24, 2017

Bird songs provide insight into how developing brain forms memories

Researchers discovered that a specific neural signal in the brain regulates young animals' ability to learn behavioral patterns from adults, particularly in zebra finches. The findings suggest that disruptions in this protein complex may be involved in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Research targets long-term brain deficits in cardiac arrest survivors

Research by LSU Health New Orleans scientists may lead to a treatment for long-term sensory problems in cardiac arrest survivors. The study used rodent models and computer modeling to show that cardiac arrest damages the cerebral cortex, leading to decreased sensory responsiveness.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournaleNeuro·DateJul 24, 2017

Nutritional value of soybean meal varies among sources from different countries

Research from the University of Illinois found that soybean meal produced in different countries has varying levels of digestible protein and amino acids. The study suggests that US, Indian, and Brazilian soybean meals have higher concentrations of these nutrients compared to Argentine and Chinese alternatives.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Animal Science·DateJul 24, 2017

The oldest 'bad boy' in the world

Researchers at Friedrich Schiller University Jena reconstructed a 300 million-year-old beetle from Australia, shedding new light on the earliest developments in beetles. The 'Bad Boy' exhibits an unorthodox mix of ancestral and modern characteristics, challenging traditional beetle classification.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of Systematic Palaeontology·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Using money to buy time linked to increased happiness

Research at the University of British Columbia and Harvard Business School found that spending money on time-saving purchases leads to greater life satisfaction. The study surveyed over 6,000 adults across four countries and controlled for income, revealing that buying time has similar benefits as having more money.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2017

Greatest threat to eastern forest birds is habitat loss on wintering grounds

A new study predicts that habitat loss on wintering grounds will be the greatest threat to eastern forest birds, exacerbated by climate change. The research found that bird species spend up to 60% of their year in Central America's wintering grounds, where habitat conversion and land-use changes will have a significant impact.

SourceCornell University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Multitasking monolayers

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a method to produce patterned monolayers that can perform multiple functions, such as catalyzing chemical reactions and sensing molecules. These materials offer a new option for device designers, allowing for the creation of single materials with two functionalities.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 24, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Depression Roke over Hong Kong

Tropical Depression Roke made landfall in Hong Kong on July 23, weakening from a tropical storm earlier that day. After the landfall, NASA's Terra satellite captured visible light images of the depression, showing an elongated area of clouds and thunderstorms along the southeastern coast of China.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 24, 2017

Carnegie Mellon Robotics pioneer receives highest honor in computer graphics

Jessica Hodgins, a pioneer in character animation and robotics, has been recognized with the prestigious Steven Anson Coons Award for her outstanding contributions to computer graphics. Her work on physical simulation and control has advanced the development of realistic computer animations and human-robot interaction.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 24, 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.

Genome editing with CRISPR-Cas9 prevents angiogenesis of the retina

Researchers from Mass Eye and Ear successfully prevented mice from developing retinal angiogenesis using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing techniques. The technique targets VEGFR2, a critical protein responsible for angiogenesis, and showed promising results in preclinical models.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2017

Two undergrads improve plant carbon-cycle models

Two undergraduate students from the University of Illinois improved plant carbon-cycle models by discovering variation in stomata behavior among different tree species. Their findings reduced error rates by 30-60%, increasing model accuracy and improving predictions of crop growth, biomass production, and ecosystem dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 24, 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.

Scientists gain clearer picture of how genes affect lean body mass

A comprehensive study published in Nature Communications reveals that lean body mass is highly heritable and can be attributed to specific genes. The research may lead to the development of future therapies to prevent the loss of lean mass and associated disabilities such as sarcopenia.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2017

Strength of tectonic plates may explain shape of the Tibetan Plateau, study finds

A new study published in Nature Communications suggests that the Tibetan Plateau's unique shape may be explained by the strength of the tectonic plates involved in its formation. The research found that a strong Asian plate results in a narrow plateau, while a weak Asian plate produces a broad one.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2017

Reshaping computer-aided design

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL have developed InstantCAD, a tool that enables designers to interactively edit and optimize CAD models using a streamlined workflow. This allows for real-time improvements and optimizations, reducing the time required to test and refine complex designs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateJul 24, 2017

Alcohol boosts recall of earlier learning

A University of Exeter study found that drinking alcohol boosts memory recall for information learned before the drinking episode began. Those who consumed more alcohol showed stronger effects on memory performance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 24, 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.

Rahul Roychoudhuri awarded prestigious Lister Prize

Babraham Institute group leader Dr Rahul Roychoudhuri has been selected for the £200,000 Lister Institute Research Prize Fellowship to support his research on immune system regulation and suppression. His goal is to better understand how gene regulators affect T cells and potentially treat autoimmune diseases.

SourceBabraham Institute·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

Kidney disease risk score can be built into patients' electronic health records

A new clinical decision support tool calculates and displays kidney failure risk based on criteria identified from a large cohort study. The tool automatically calculates and displays a risk score within the health record, making it easier for physicians to spot disease progression and take action.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJul 24, 2017

High-temperature superconductivity in B-doped Q-carbon

Scientists have discovered a novel way to create superconductors at higher temperatures using boron-doped Q-carbon, with a transition temperature of 57K. This breakthrough could lead to practical applications in fields like energy and transportation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 24, 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.

Physics of bubbles could explain language patterns

A new study using physics to predict where and how dialects occur suggests that dialects tend to move outwards from population centers. This theory explains why cities have their own dialects and how language boundaries get smoother over time.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalPhysical Review X·DateJul 24, 2017

How fear alone can cause animal extinction

A recent study found that the scent of a praying mantis can cause fruit flies to spend less time eating, more time being vigilant, and produce fewer offspring, leading to increased extinction risk. The study sheds light on the Allee effect, a long-standing biological conundrum related to population size and extinction.

SourceMcGill University·DateJul 24, 2017

Study finds 90 percent of American men overfat

A recent study published in Frontiers in Public Health found that up to 90% of adult males and 50% of children in the US may be overfat. The condition is linked to various health problems, including hypertension, coronary heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateJul 24, 2017
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.

NASA mission surfs through waves in space to understand space weather

A new NASA study using data from the Van Allen Probes spacecraft has discovered that plasmaspheric hiss waves are more complex than previously understood. Low-frequency hiss waves interact with high-energy particles and can efficiently remove them from the radiation belts, protecting satellites.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 24, 2017

Writing with the electron beam: Now in silver

A team from HZB and EMPA successfully realized direct electron beam writing of silver nanocrystals using Electron-Beam-Induced Deposition. This breakthrough enables the creation of complex features onto a substrate in a single step, promising applications in nano-optics and information technology.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 24, 2017

Stroke survivors without early complications at long-term risk of death, stroke

A new study published in CMAJ found that people who survive a stroke or mini-stroke without early complications have an increased risk of death and stroke for at least 5 years following the initial event. Researchers recommend long-term management of modifiable risks, such as high blood pressure and physical activity, to reduce this risk.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 24, 2017

Fearing surveillance, dads with a record avoid kids' schools

Research reveals that fathers with a record are nearly 50% less involved in their child's education, linked to distrust and avoidance of 'surveilling institutions'. This can lead to poor educational outcomes and transfer feelings of institutional distrust, setting up disadvantage from early childhood.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJul 24, 2017

New vaccine production could improve flu shot accuracy

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new way to produce the seasonal flu vaccine that could speed up production and provide better protection against infection. By keeping the human influenza virus from mutating during production, they generate a perfect match to the target vaccine in a shorter time frame.

SourceDuke University·JournalmBio·DateJul 24, 2017

Benefits of continued statin use after adverse reactions

A new study found that patients who continued receiving statins after experiencing an adverse reaction, such as muscle aches and pains, had a lower risk of death and cardiovascular events. The study analyzed data from 28,266 participants and found that about 70% of patients continued taking statin prescriptions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 24, 2017

Algae cultivation technique could advance biofuels

Researchers at Washington State University developed a unique biofilm reactor that efficiently grows algae in days, not weeks. The system uses recycled gases, less water, and lower light than traditional reactors, producing algae rich in fats suitable for biodiesel production.

SourceWashington State University·JournalAlgal Research·DateJul 24, 2017