Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive October 2015 - Page 19


Page 19 of 38

Scientists identify climate 'tipping points'

An international team of scientists has identified 41 potential 'tipping points' where regional climate shifts could occur, including abrupt changes in ocean circulation patterns and vegetation. These events may happen at global warming levels below two degrees, challenging the notion of a safe limit.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2015

New technology uses smartphones and paper to analyze samples

A new study presents a portable smartphone-based detection system using a paper sensor that produces strong signals to detect pesticide thiram. The system integrates nanoparticles, a mini-laser, an optical filter, and software that runs on Android, giving reliable and accurate detection readings at low concentrations.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateOct 15, 2015

Zebrafish study sheds new light on human heart defects

A recent study using zebrafish has uncovered new insights into the causes of congenital heart defects associated with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. The research found that lowering levels of a specific cohesin protein in embryonic zebrafish produces similar types of heart defects as those found in people with CdLS.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateOct 15, 2015

New test to predict relapse of testicular cancers

Scientists developed a test to identify patients at risk of relapse from non-seminomatous germ cell tumour. The test assessed three features: CXCL12 levels, cancer stem cells, and blood vessel presence. It divided patients into three risk groups, with the low-risk group experiencing high relapse-free survival rates.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 15, 2015

Developing the tools to find new generation antibiotics

Researchers at the University of York have developed novel genetic engineering tools to manipulate genes required for antibiotic biosynthesis, enabling scientists to create new antibiotics. The technique has the potential to unlock the antibiotic potential of a significantly larger number of biosynthetic pathways than traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 15, 2015

Towards a favorable systemic radio-immunother target

A study using ^90Y-daclizumab, an anti-CD25 monoclonal antibody, achieved complete and partial responses in 50% of patients with relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma. The treatment showed minor toxicity, but six patients developed myelodysplastic syndrome, limiting its use as a standalone therapy.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2015

Buzzing bees can't resist caffeinated nectar

Researchers found that caffeinated nectar tricks honey bees into valuing it as a higher quality forage, leading to increased foraging and recruitment behaviors. The study suggests that plants may be using caffeine as a way to deceive pollinators.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 15, 2015

Hot stuff: Magnetic domain walls

Researchers at PTB have successfully measured the thermoelectric properties of a single magnetic domain wall, a breakthrough that opens up new possibilities in spin caloritronics. The study reveals that the presence or absence of the domain wall leads to a measurable change in the thermoelectric voltage generated by the wire.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review B·DateOct 15, 2015

What's behind your thirst?

Researchers at McGill University Health Centre discover the structure of a key protein involved in body hydration and temperature regulation. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments and diagnostic tests for conditions such as hyponatremia, a disorder that affects sodium levels in the blood.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 15, 2015

Rise and fall of agrarian states influenced by climate volatility

Research finds that climate variability played a significant role in the emergence, decline, and re-establishment of ancient agrarian states in Mexico and Peru. The study analyzed climate records from stalagmites and ice caps to understand how climate conditions influenced the growth and instability of these civilizations.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateOct 15, 2015

Laser-based imaging tool could increase accuracy, safety of brain tumor surgery

Researchers are testing a stimulated Raman scattering microscope to image brain tissue in real-time, allowing surgeons to see the difference between tumor tissue and normal brain. The technology has the potential to resolve a long-standing issue in cancer surgery by providing faster and more effective methods to assess tumor removal.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 15, 2015

Young Latinos experience discrimination when obtaining health care, research shows

A new study from Oregon State University found that young Latinos in rural areas experience discrimination when obtaining health care services. Nearly 40% of participants reported being prevented from accessing services or being hassled due to perceived discrimination. The researchers emphasize the need for cultural competency among he...

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateOct 15, 2015

Scientists find potential epilepsy drug

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a potential new class of drugs that may prevent the development of temporal lobe epilepsy. A small-protein drug called pY816 was found to reduce both the likelihood and severity of epilepsy in mice after an episode of prolonged seizures.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 15, 2015