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Science News Archive July 2017 - Page 2


Page 2 of 37

Beware doping athletes! This sensor may be your downfall

Researchers developed a new light-trapping sensor that improves spectroscopy's detection capabilities for drugs, bomb-making materials, diseases and other molecules. The device uses SEIRA spectroscopy to absorb up to 81% of infrared light, outperforming previous technologies.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJul 31, 2017

Taboo around vaginal bleeding endangering women's health

The authors emphasize the need for a life course approach to address vaginal bleeding needs of girls and women across their lives. The lack of open discussion and access to clean water, sanitation, and factual information hinder effective management of bleeding, leading to anaemia and other health issues.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateJul 31, 2017

One-nanometer trimetallic alloy particles created

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a method to synthesize microscopic alloy nanoparticles using dendrimers, achieving 24 times greater oxidization activity than commercially available catalysts. The discovery opens up new possibilities for creating high-performance materials in various fields.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·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.

Alcohol intake may increase risk of nonmelanoma skin cancers

A recent analysis of published studies found that higher alcohol intake increases the risk of basal cell carcinoma by 7% and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by 11% for every 10 gram increase per day. The study suggests that limiting alcohol consumption may help reduce skin cancer risk.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateJul 31, 2017

Study opens new drug therapy targets in a range of diseases

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the immune system's molecular mechanisms, providing new foundations for treating various diseases. The study reveals that 'toll-like receptors' play a key role in both protecting against infection and triggering pathological inflammatory responses.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJul 31, 2017

'My kid is in there,' UT Health San Antonio imaging studies confirm

Researchers identified the specific region of the brain affected by anoxic brain injury (ABI) in children who survived drowning. The study found that networks controlling perception and cognition remain intact, while motor pathways are damaged.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateJul 31, 2017

Spanking can be detrimental for children's behavior, even 10 years later

Research at the University of Missouri found that severe discipline on infants can lead to increased aggressive and delinquent behaviors in the fifth grade. In contrast, good self-regulation predicts better behavioral outcomes in both African-American and European-American children.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·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.

Energy storage solution combines polymers and nanosheets

A new composite material made from a combination of polymers and hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets has been developed by Penn State researchers. This material can store energy at operating temperatures above 176 degrees Fahrenheit, outperforming current commercial polymers.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·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.

Projected precipitation increases are bad news for water quality

A new study predicts that US water quality will worsen due to climate-driven changes in precipitation, leading to increased nitrogen pollution and the formation of harmful algae blooms and dead zones. The Midwest and Northeast are expected to be particularly affected.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateJul 31, 2017

The Gulf of Mexico before the spill

The Gulf of Mexico's unique flora and fauna are detailed in two open-access books compiled by editor C.H. Ward, covering topics such as water quality, oil seepage, and commercial fisheries. These studies provide an extensive baseline assessment of the Gulf's state and health before the devastating 2010 spill.

SourceSpringer·DateJul 31, 2017

Bacterial biofilms, begone

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new biomaterial that effectively prevents the formation of biofilms by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a virulent superbug. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of antibacterial surfaces for wound dressings and other medical applications.

SourceColorado State University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 31, 2017

Researchers develop technology to make aged cells younger

Scientists at Houston Methodist have developed a technology that can rejuvenate human cells by lengthening telomeres, the timekeepers of chromosomes. This breakthrough has the potential to improve cell function and extend lifespan in individuals with progeria, a rare condition marked by rapid aging.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·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.

Coral disease outbreaks fluctuate with El Niño years, new research finds

A study analyzing 18 years of coral-disease data found that three common diseases spike during El Niño years, mirroring the cyclical patterns of these climate events. This alarming association may indicate an increase in disease intensity due to climate change, with potential consequences for coral reefs.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 31, 2017

Bubbles help new catalysts self-optimize

Scientists at Rice University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed new two-dimensional electrocatalysts that extract hydrogen from water with high efficiency and low cost. The catalysts were created by forming bubbles between layers, which breaks them apart and increases the number of active sites.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 31, 2017

Study finds parallels between unresponsive honey bees, human autism

Researchers found that genes closely associated with autism in humans are regulated differently in unresponsive honey bees than their more responsive nest mates. The study reveals unique parallels between the behavior of these unresponsive bees and those with autism.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 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.

Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications journal (volume 2 issue 3) published

The latest issue of Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications (CVIA) brings together a diverse set of papers on various cardiovascular topics. The journal features original articles, reviews, commentaries, and case reports on topics such as telemedicine, heart failure, and cholesterol crystals.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateJul 31, 2017

New research could make dew droplets so small, they're invisible

Researchers at Virginia Tech have made breakthrough discovery on optimizing dew droplet size to improve efficiency of removing condensation. By fine-tuning surface nanoscopic topography, they found that droplets can be made small enough to jump off surfaces as early as 2 micrometers.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 31, 2017

Biofeedback technology helping improve balance in Parkinson's patients

Researchers developed a smartphone-based biofeedback rehabilitation system to guide patients through balance exercises, showing noticeable improvements in postural stability and reducing the risk of falls. The custom wearable belt uses vibrating actuators to provide personalized guidance, mapped in real-time on a smartphone application.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateJul 31, 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.

Netflix drama '13 Reasons Why' linked to suicidal thoughts

A new study found that Netflix's '13 Reasons Why' corresponded with a substantial increase in internet searches for suicide, including phrases like 'how to commit suicide' and 'suicide prevention'. The study suggests that the show may have inspired some viewers to act on their suicidal thoughts.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 31, 2017

Supreme Court rulings can signal a shift in societal norms

A study published in Psychological Science found that Supreme Court rulings can alter public perceptions of social norms around issues like gay marriage. Researchers observed a significant jump in participants' belief that Americans support same-sex marriage after the 2015 ruling, which persisted weeks later.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalPsychological Science·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.

LSUHealthNO research finds home-based kit would increase HIV testing

A study by LSUHealthNO found that 86% of high-risk heterosexuals in New Orleans would use a home-based test kit, leading to increased HIV testing and treatment rates. The study suggests that this self-administered alternative may reach individuals who are under-recognized as at risk, promoting timely treatment.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateJul 31, 2017

Leaf beetles: Even a tiny dose of pesticide will impair reproduction

Researchers found that even a tiny dose of pesticide can impair leaf beetles' ability to reproduce, with females developing malformations and offspring laying fewer eggs. The study's results may also be transferred to other insects, highlighting the need for long-term consideration in herbicide authorization.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJul 31, 2017

Successful prediction of multi-year US droughts and wildfire risk

A new model developed by international scientists predicts multi-year US droughts and wildfire risks, enabling improved agricultural planning and water management. The model's success is attributed to the analysis of tropical climate variability, global climate change, and soil filtering effects.

SourceUtah State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 31, 2017

Formation of porous crystals observed for the first time

Researchers at University of Bristol observed the formation of a crystal gel and discovered new mechanisms for creating sponge-like nanoporous crystals. The process resembles ice crystal growth in clouds and can lead to materials for catalytic, optical, sensing, and filtration applications.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Methods·DateJul 31, 2017

NASA sees Tropical Storm Irwin moving in post-Tropical Storm Hilary's wake

Tropical Storm Irwin is moving north-northwestward in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, with its structure remaining well-organized despite declining deep convection. The storm is expected to continue weakening and eventually degenerate into a remnant low, with forecasters predicting this will occur by Tuesday, August 1.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·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.

Rice University chemists make laser-induced graphene from wood

Researchers at Rice University have successfully turned wood into an electrical conductor by creating laser-induced graphene, a form of the atom-thin carbon material. The process involves heating a thin film pattern onto a block of pine using a standard industrial laser, producing high-quality graphene foam bound to the wood surface.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 31, 2017

Bringing a 'trust but verify' model to journal peer review

Researchers suggest revising Transparency and Openness (TOP) Guidelines to facilitate meta-research on peer review effectiveness. Journals can choose tier levels of transparency, with higher risk involved. This would legitimize and advertise relative quality of peer review processes, improving scientific literature.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalScience·DateJul 31, 2017

Women show cognitive advantage in gender-equal countries

Research from Association for Psychological Science reveals that women living in gender-equal societies outperform men on cognitive tests later in life. The study also found that changes in gender-role attitudes within a country over time are associated with improvements in women's cognitive performance.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·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.

Astronomers discover 'heavy metal' supernova rocking out

A team of astronomers has discovered a superluminous supernova in a spiral galaxy, which is rich in elements heavier than hydrogen and helium. This discovery challenges current ideas about the origin of such powerful explosions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 31, 2017

Towards a safe and scalable cell therapy for type 1 diabetes by simplifying beta cell differentiation

Scientists have identified a molecular handle to purify cells destined to become insulin-producing cells, enabling a streamlined and cost-efficient process for generating glucose-responsive beta cells. The discovery aims to address safety and end product consistency challenges in cell therapy for type 1 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 31, 2017

WSU study shows muted stress response linked to long-term cannabis use

Researchers found chronic cannabis users showed no difference in cortisol levels during stressful situations compared to non-users, hinting at potential therapeutic benefits but also raising concerns about resilience and health. The study provides an important first step in investigating the effects of long-term cannabis use.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPsychopharmacology·DateJul 31, 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.

New system could remove two water pollutants from ag fields

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new system that can remove both nitrate and phosphorus from agricultural runoff, potentially improving water quality. The system uses woodchip bioreactors and P-filters to trap pollutants, with one type of filter showing significantly higher effectiveness in removing phosphorus.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWater Research·DateJul 31, 2017

NASA tests the Webb telescope's communication skills

The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully completed its Ground Segment Test Number 1, confirming end-to-end communication between the telescope and its mission operations center. The test, which took place on June 20, tested all communications systems required for launch, commissioning, and normal operations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 31, 2017

New and novel technologies successfully demonstrated in soilborne disease study

Researchers have successfully developed a new method to analyze soil microbial communities and their role in the development of Sudden Death Syndrome (SDS) disease in soybean. By profiling microbes, scientists found significant differences between healthy and diseased areas, suggesting that biological factors play a key role in determi...

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·DateJul 31, 2017

Substantial number of US adults report misusing prescription opioids

A substantial number of US adults reported misusing prescription opioids, with 11.5 million admitting to misuse and 1.9 million having a use disorder. The majority of these individuals had low income or behavioral health problems, while relief from physical pain was the most common motivation for misuse.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 31, 2017

Public trust in science spiked after media coverage of Zika vaccine trial

A survey found that public trust in science increased after the launch of the first human trial of a Zika vaccine, with people showing greater trust in science and paying more attention to news about the Zika virus. The study suggests that regularized communication about scientific advances could bolster confidence in science.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Communication·DateJul 31, 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.

Scientists challenge next-generation sequencing dogma

A recent study published in Scientific Reports reveals that shotgun sequencing, a favored method for measuring microbial biodiversity, is not as accurate as once thought. Amplicon sequencing, on the other hand, revealed more than twice the number of phyla and 27% more families in water samples from Brazil's major river floodplain systems.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 31, 2017

Study links violence exposure, obesity in teens

A new study by Duke researchers found that teenagers who were exposed to violence consumed more unhealthy foods and beverages, including increased soda consumption, which is a strong predictor of weight gain. The study also revealed that adolescents took more steps on days they were exposed to violence, contrary to expectations.

SourceDuke University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·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.

Refuting the idea that mutations cause cancer

A new evolutionary theory of cancer suggests that cells with dangerous mutations exist all the time but are commonly outcompeted by healthy cells in healthy tissues. However, when the tissue microenvironment is damaged, these pre-cancer cells can thrive and establish themselves in the body.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalCancer Research·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.

NASA sees Tropical Storm Nesat landfall in China

Tropical Storm Nesat made its second and final landfall on July 30 at Su'ao in northeastern Taiwan, causing evacuations. The storm then crossed the island nation and landed in southeastern China's Fujian Province, prompting over 3,100 evacuees.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 31, 2017

New drug may treat and limit progression of Parkinson's disease

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a new drug that demonstrates superior anti-parkinsonian efficacy over current medications. The compound, D-512, provides longer symptom relief and prolongs the time window in which benefits are shown.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateJul 31, 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.