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Science News for November 6, 2015


Targeted treatment produces rapid shrinkage of recurrent, BRAF-mutant brain tumor

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have reported the first successful use of a targeted therapy drug to treat a patient with a debilitating, recurrent brain tumor. Treatment with BRAF inhibitor dabrafinib led to rapid shrinkage of the tumor, and the patient remains symptom-free over a year after treatment.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 6, 2015

Thiazide may pose some risk for congestive heart failure patients

Researchers warn that thiazide diuretics may cause low blood pressure in congestive heart failure patients, leading to dizziness and reduced blood flow to the brain and kidneys. The study suggests that these patients should exercise caution when taking thiazides or consider alternative medications.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 6, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Kidney transplantation prolongs survival compared with home hemodialysis

A new study comparing kidney transplantation and home hemodialysis found that transplant recipients outlived their hemodialysis counterparts by 4 times over 5 years. Elderly patients on hemodialysis had nearly a 5 times higher risk of dying compared to those with transplants, highlighting racial disparities in mortality rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 6, 2015

First synthetic model of bacteria outer membrane

Researchers created a synthetic model of E. coli's outer membrane, providing unprecedented access to its structure and dynamics. The model was used to test how antibiotic molecules can cross the critical barrier, which is highly impermeable to incoming molecules.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 6, 2015

New drought atlas maps 2,000 years of climate in Europe

The new atlas uses tree rings to map severe droughts and wet periods across Europe, parts of North Africa, and the Middle East over 2,000 years. It fills a major geographic gap in climate data, helping scientists pinpoint causes of drought and extreme rainfall.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 6, 2015

Positive emotions more contagious than negative ones on Twitter

A new study by Emilio Ferrara and Zeyao Yang found that positive emotions spread virally through Twitter feeds, with about 20% of users deemed highly susceptible to 'emotional contagion'. These users were four times more likely to produce positive tweets than negative ones.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

People attribute moral obligation and blame, regardless of ability

A recent study by Professor John Turri and Wesley Buckwalter found that people attribute moral obligations to those unable to fulfill them, regardless of ability. In experiments, participants judged a lifeguard obligated to save both drowning swimmers despite physical limitations.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 6, 2015

Researchers develop a new tool to guide recovery from disasters

Researchers developed a computerized tool to guide stakeholders in recovering large-scale infrastructure systems after disasters. The tool, based on network science, identifies the order in which stations need to be restored, considering factors like centrality measures and station importance.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 6, 2015

Amplifying -- or removing -- visual variation

Researchers at MIT have developed techniques to amplify minute motions in digital video, as well as smooth out small variations in digital images. The techniques can produce more polished images for graphic-design projects, while also disclosing structural defects and camouflaged objects.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

Neurodermatitis genes influence other allergies

A study published in Nature Communications has identified seven genetic risk loci for atopic dermatitis and asthma, suggesting a link between the two conditions. The research found that regions determining atopic dermatitis risk also influence the development of asthma and other allergies, known as the atopic march.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2015

Mucus -- the first line of defense

Research at Lund University reveals that mucus in the saliva stimulates white blood cells to form effective nets of DNA and proteins, capturing and killing bacteria. Patients with aphthous stomatitis and Behçet's disease often lack saliva with this property, highlighting a potential link between mucus and these diseases.

SourceLund University·JournalBlood·DateNov 6, 2015

Better options for people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia

A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who switch to clozapine have better outcomes, including fewer hospitalizations and longer medication adherence. The findings provide important guidance for clinicians caring for this vulnerable population.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

Protein movement of hair bundles in the inner ear may preserve hearing for life

Scientists at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have discovered a repair and renewal mechanism in protein movement within hair cells of the inner ear. The study found that constant movement and replacement of proteins serve a maintenance and even repair function, potentially reversing hearing loss.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 6, 2015

Gut microbiota regulates antioxidant metabolism

A study published in Molecular Systems Biology reveals that gut microbiota regulates glutathione and amino acid metabolism in mice, which may contribute to the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other diseases. The research also highlights the potential for probiotics to deliver beneficial bacteria to the gut and prevent meta...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

Unlocking the mysteries of 'little starlets'

Researchers recreated conditions inside brown dwarfs using a powerful laser, shedding light on their formation and properties. The findings pave the way for further understanding of these mysterious celestial objects, which are difficult to spot due to their small size and cool temperatures.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2015

MRI-based screening improves assignment of stroke patients to endovascular treatment

A Massachusetts General Hospital-developed system using diffusion MRI improved patient selection for endovascular treatment, leading to a greater percentage of screened patients receiving treatment. The system's precision resulted in similar outcomes to recent clinical trials and significantly increased the number of treated patients.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateNov 6, 2015

Cellular stress process identified in cardiovascular disease

A new molecular pathway involved in heart attacks and death from heart disease has been identified by a Duke University research team. They found that stress on the endoplasmic reticulum organelle is associated with risk of future heart events and can be detected in bits of molecular detritus circulating in the blood.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 6, 2015

Scottish university scientist behind successful rapid-detection Ebola test

A rapid-detection Ebola test developed by Dr. Manfred Weidmann has been deployed in Senegal and Guinea, performing exceptionally well under field conditions. The test uses a method called recombinase polymerase amplification and can be stored at room temperature, operated by local teams without the need for confirmatory tests.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalEurosurveillance·DateNov 6, 2015

When less is really more

A new study reveals that hepcidin, a protein regulating iron absorption, can inhibit the body's ability to absorb iron supplements in quantities necessary and desirable. The researchers suggest waiting longer between doses may improve iron absorption efficiency and reduce side effects.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalBlood·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

New way to find DNA damage

Researchers have developed a new way to detect chemical damage to DNA that can lead to genetic mutations and diseases. The method combines existing techniques to mark and copy DNA damage sites, preserving information on the location and type of damage.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2015

School violence prevention project to focus on mobile apps, peer dynamics

A new school safety project, Project SOAR, aims to use mobile apps and high school youths to prevent violence by promoting student involvement and restorative justice. The $1.6 million project will utilize technology-based tools and involve students in developing a school safety framework.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateNov 6, 2015

Cancer survivors less likely to receive callbacks from potential employers

A study by Rice University and Penn State University researchers found that cancer survivors are less likely to receive callbacks from retail employers compared to those who did not disclose their health history. Applicants disclosing a cancer history received fewer callbacks, highlighting subtle biases in hiring practices.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

New ORNL device combines power of mass spectrometry, microscopy

A new hybrid optical microscope/mass spectrometry-based imaging system developed at ORNL provides sub-micron resolution for chemical analysis and differentiates between polymers and cells. The technology enhances understanding of material interactions, drug transport, disease progression, and response to treatment.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateNov 6, 2015

New clues to how gatekeeper for the cell nucleus works

Berkeley Lab scientists discovered specific amino acid arrangements in FG Nups proteins enable efficient transport of molecular cargo into and out of the nucleus. These findings have implications for understanding diseases like cancer and infectious disorders.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 6, 2015

Marine invasive species benefiting from rising carbon dioxide levels

A new report by Plymouth University finds that ocean acidification is benefiting invasive species such as algae and jellyfish, which can cause toxic blooms and harm native herbivores. As CO2 levels rise, these organisms are becoming more resilient and spreading to new areas.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalResearch and Reports in Biodiversity Studies·DateNov 6, 2015
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Equations used to place patients on transplant waitlists may create disparities

A study found that three commonly used kidney function equations yield discordant results for transplant waitlist qualification, potentially leading to significant differences in qualification time and disadvantage patients. The Cockroft-Gault equation most often disadvantaged patients compared to the MDRD and CKD-EPI equations.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 6, 2015

From starving chicks come fat birds

A Newcastle University study found that stressed baby starlings grow into fat and greedy adults, changing their eating behavior as a result. The research showed that chicks that faced greater competition for food as juveniles tend to overeat when presented with freely available food.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateNov 6, 2015

UGA researchers identify essential component of antiviral defense

Researchers at the University of Georgia have identified Tpl2 as a key regulator of immune signaling proteins called interferons, which play a large role in host defense against viral infections. The study found that Tpl2 promotes induction of antiviral genes and protects against influenza virus infection.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

Packaging and unpacking of the genome

Studies reveal crucial role of histone chaperone protein in maintaining epigenetic landscape and genomic fidelity. Deletion of key protein leads to severe developmental defects, DNA damage, and compromised gene regulation.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 6, 2015

NASA's Swift spots its thousandth gamma-ray burst

Swift has detected over 1,000 gamma-ray bursts, providing valuable insights into extreme physical processes. The most distant GRB recorded by Swift is from over 12 billion years ago, offering new opportunities to investigate how these events are distributed across space and time.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 6, 2015

New look at PrEP study points to efficacy for transgender women

A new analysis of the iPrEx trial suggests that PrEP is effective in preventing HIV infection among transgender women. However, lower drug levels and reduced adherence rates are observed due to socio-cultural factors, emphasizing the need for tailored delivery models.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 6, 2015

Tomatoes get boost in growth, antioxidants from nano-sized nutrients

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed nanoparticles that increase the nutrient content and growth of tomato plants. The study found that treated plants produced nearly 82% more fruit than untreated ones, with higher antioxidant content.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalMetallomics·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

Studies assess racial disparities associated with living kidney donation

A new study reveals racial disparities in living kidney donation rates and complications after donation. African Americans have the lowest rates of living donation, while also experiencing higher risks of complications, including gastrointestinal issues, bleeding, and respiratory problems. The findings suggest that socioeconomic factor...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·DateNov 6, 2015

GMRT discovers a dying, giant radio galaxy 9 billion light years away!

Researchers have discovered a dying giant radio galaxy 9 billion light years away, offering insights into the properties of magnetic fields in the distant universe. The galaxy's radio lobes are fading due to energy loss through radio wave emission and inverse Compton scattering.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 6, 2015

Bang for the buck in stroke prevention: U-M study compares new & old drugs

A University of Michigan Medical School team compared the cost-effectiveness of two anticoagulant drugs, dabigatran and warfarin, for preventing stroke in patients over age 65 with atrial fibrillation. They found that new drugs are more cost-effective for those with prescription coverage, but may not be worth it for those without cover...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateNov 6, 2015
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.

Researchers uncover diverse subtypes of serotonin-producing neurons

Scientists have characterized six major molecular subtypes of serotonergic neurons in mice, revealing distinct expression patterns of hundreds of genes. These subtypes modulate different behaviors and vary in developmental lineage, anatomical distribution, and electrical firing properties.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateNov 6, 2015