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Science News Archive July 2017 - Page 16


Page 16 of 37

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.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEuropean Journal of Agronomy·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceWiley·JournalMammal Review·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceWiley·JournalHuman Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 19, 2017

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.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 19, 2017

New study provides BRCA mutation carriers guidance for when surgery has greatest impact

A new study offers a decision-analytic model to help women with BRCA mutations determine the optimal age for preventive surgeries that can significantly reduce lifetime breast and ovarian cancer risk. The model recommends specific ages for bilateral mastectomy (BM) and salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) procedures.

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.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2017

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...

SourceHarvard University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJul 19, 2017

Despite lack of efficacy data, surprising consensus in pediatric anti-epilepsy med scripts

A study by Children's National Hospital found that doctors in the US have reached an unexpected consensus on prescribing medications for pediatric epilepsy patients, with levetiracetam being the most frequently chosen. The study highlights a need for real data on efficacy for each medication to inform evidence-based decision-making.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalPediatric Neurology·DateJul 19, 2017