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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 231


Page 231 of 423

This desert moss has developed the ultimate water collection toolkit

The study reveals how Syntrichia caninervis moss collects and transports water using its specialized awn structures, allowing it to survive in extremely dry conditions. The findings also have potential applications in industry and public hygiene, such as reducing splash-back in urinals.

SourceUtah State University·JournalNature Plants·DateJun 6, 2016

Operation IceBridge completes 2016 Arctic spring campaign

Operation IceBridge completed its eighth spring Arctic campaign, collecting data on key portions of the Greenland Ice Sheet and Arctic sea ice. The mission focused on measuring changes in sea ice extent, thickness, and elevation, with implications for predicting melt season patterns.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Genome engineering of quantifiable protein tags: Western blot on the way down?

Scientists have developed a set of universal protein tags that enable accurate quantification of proteins using targeted proteomics techniques. The new tags, named PQS, are designed to work with selective reaction monitoring (SRM) and eliminate the need for labor-intensive assay development.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 2016

Larger wine glasses may lead people to drink more

Researchers found that larger wine glasses led to an almost 10% increase in wine sales, with consumers drinking more due to perceived volume changes. The study suggests that avoiding larger wine glasses could reduce consumption, but further research is needed to confirm this effect.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJun 6, 2016

New compound shows promise against malaria

Researchers discover potent activity of oxaboroles against malaria parasites, highlighting a promising new class of antimalarial drugs. The compounds target the LeuRS enzyme, which is essential for protein synthesis, making them a potential cure for malaria with minimal resistance risk.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateJun 6, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Penn study describes a better animal model to improve HIV vaccine development

Researchers developed a new animal model to test HIV vaccines, combining the envelope of HIV with simian immunodeficiency virus to replicate in monkeys. Changing a single amino acid in the envelope coat protein improved the model's ability to infect monkeys while retaining native-like features.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Eddies enhance survival of coral reef fish in sub-tropical waters

Researchers found that young fish reared in eddies grew faster and had a survival advantage compared to those outside eddies. The study's findings suggest that eddies can act as pelagic nursery areas, providing a critical head start for larval fish growth.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Blood test to personalize depression treatment for the first time

A blood test developed by King's College London accurately predicts which depressed patients will respond to common antidepressants. The test identifies biomarkers associated with inflammation, guiding patients towards earlier access to more assertive treatments.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateJun 6, 2016

MPs want academic 'match-making' service to help inform policy

Researchers found that MPs are willing to use a rapid match-making advisory service to access the latest research findings and seek advice from cutting-edge researchers. The EIS could provide a useful complement to existing information services and help ensure decisions are based on reliable evidence.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Combination therapy cures tick-borne illness in mice

A novel combination therapy has been found to clear the infection and prevent recurrence of babesiosis up to 122 days after treatment. The study used a mouse model to test the efficacy of atovaquone and ELQ-334, two drugs that work together to attack the parasite's target enzyme.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJun 6, 2016

Shorter patient consent forms, video formats improve comprehension

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed simplified patient-centered consent forms that were equally effective but more engaging than traditional lengthy forms. Video formats also improved comprehension, with participants reporting feeling more engaged in the consenting process.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateJun 6, 2016

Doctors unleash new weapon to fight pediatric neuroblastoma

A new combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy has shown a remarkable 53% response rate in pediatric neuroblastoma patients, with some tumors shrinking or disappearing completely. Researchers plan to expand the study to include more children, offering hope for a potential cure.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateJun 6, 2016

Essential aspects of the regulation of the anti-tumor protein p53

Researchers have identified essential aspects of the regulation of the anti-tumor protein p53, with surprising results suggesting that only a few ribosomal proteins are required to maintain nucleolar structure. This discovery has significant implications for cancer research and development of new biomarkers.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

New support for human evolution in grasslands

A 24-million-year-old record of vegetation trends suggests that humans developed key traits like flexible diets and large brains while adapting to the spread of open grasslands. The study provides a comprehensive timeline for the development of grasses, which were part of human evolution from the very beginning.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Microgrids, not always economically efficient in regulated electricity markets

New research suggests that microgrids may not always be economically efficient in regulated electricity markets. The study examines scenarios for adding a microgrid to a vertically integrated utility network, finding that it can increase or decrease economic efficiency depending on cost assumptions and network characteristics. In some ...

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Energy·DateJun 6, 2016

UTSA receives $1.9 million grant to support underrepresented minority researchers

The University of Texas at San Antonio's Maximizing Access to Research Centers (MARC) program has received a $1.9 million grant over five years to train 12 undergraduate students per year in UTSA laboratories. The program prepares students for Ph.D. programs and enables them to conduct top-tier research in the biomedical field.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Distinguishing deadly Staph bacteria from harmless strains

Scientists compared 64 Staphylococcus aureus strains' genomes to develop a comprehensive understanding of the bacteria's virulence and antibiotic resistance. The study revealed that 19% of genes are essential for life, while dispensable genes offer advantages in specific environments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Electroacupuncture may help relieve pain from carpal tunnel syndrome

A randomized controlled trial found that electroacupuncture combined with nighttime splinting improved symptoms of chronic carpal tunnel syndrome. The treatment provided small improvements in disability, function, and pinch strength among patients with mild to moderate symptoms.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 6, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Myricitrin may protect against neuronal loss in Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that myricitrin can help maintain two key functions of mouse neurons exposed to neurotoxicity, including enzymatic activity and rapamycin complex 1 activation. The study suggests that myricitrin could have a role in preventing neuronal degeneration in Parkinson's disease.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateJun 6, 2016

Epigenomic alterations contribute to obesity-associated diabetes

Researchers identify epigenomic changes that contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes in obese individuals. These changes are associated with inflammation and trigger insulin resistance, highlighting the importance of epigenetic regulation in metabolic diseases.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Unexpected function of small nucleolar RNAs explains cause of some diseases

Research reveals snoRNAs control ribosome modification and regulate alternative splicing, leading to wrong protein variants. This discovery explains the cause of diseases like Prader-Willi syndrome and cancer, and offers a possible therapy for genetic hyperphagia.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Interracial friendships decrease over time in elementary and middle school

A study led by NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development found that same-race friendships increase over time, particularly among white students. Teachers' classroom support and differential treatment also play a role in shaping student friendships.

SourceNew York University·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateJun 6, 2016

New photonic sensor opens the door to high-speed biodetection

Researchers developed a new technique for fast photonic sensing of freely flowing particles using an opto-mechano-fluidic resonator. The sensor measures compressibility and viscoelasticity of cells and bioparticles, which correlates with diseases like cancers and anemia.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalOptica·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Evidence of hearing damage in teens prompts researchers' warning

A study published in Scientific Reports found that almost all teenagers engage in risky listening habits, leading to persistent tinnitus and heightened sensitivity to loud sounds. The researchers warn of a major public health challenge as the prevalence of hearing damage is expected to increase.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 6, 2016

Algorithm could construct first images of black holes

Researchers developed an algorithm that can stitch together astronomical measurements from around the globe, producing the first images of black holes. The algorithm uses a technique called interferometry and preserves continuity in the image by using a mathematical model inspired by rubber sheets and plastic wrap.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 6, 2016

Long after heart attack, chymase inhibitors could extend cell survival

Researchers from Emory University School of Medicine have discovered that chymase inhibitors could extend cell survival after a heart attack. The study found that suppressing chymase activity can prevent late death of heart muscle cells, which occurs several days after blood flow is restored.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Towards building next-generation batteries using a pigment electrode

Researchers developed CIBs using PB and PBAs as electrode materials, achieving reversible capacities of 40-50 mAh/g. The excellent cyclability is attributed to the durable structure and charge balance during insertion and extraction of calcium ions.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateJun 6, 2016

Roads 'a serious threat' to rare bats

A recent study by the University of Exeter found that roads present a real and growing danger to protected bat populations, disrupting their ability to reach feeding and roosting areas. The research identified over 1,000 bat fatalities caused by collisions with cars.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMammal Review·DateJun 6, 2016

Research proves Aboriginal Australians were first inhabitants

Researchers from Griffith University's Research Centre for Human Evolution refuted a landmark study suggesting Mungo Man was an extinct lineage of modern humans. The team recovered the genomic sequence of an early inhabitant of Lake Mungo, supporting the argument that Aboriginal Australians were the first inhabitants of Australia.

SourceGriffith University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Researchers can now build an inexpensive and flexible micro-raman system

Researchers have developed an inexpensive and flexible micro-Raman system for non-destructive analysis of biological samples, offering a fraction of the cost and capability of commercial tools. This system allows for label-free detection of variations in biomolecular composition and correlates it with corresponding biological changes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalBiomedical Spectroscopy and Imaging·DateJun 6, 2016

WSU researcher affirms 86-year-old hypothesis

A WSU biologist has spent 20 years studying the movement of nutrients through plants, confirming an 86-year-old hypothesis about phloem transport. His research could lead to new strategies for fighting plant diseases and improving crop efficiency.

SourceWashington State University·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

'Wasteful' galaxies launch heavy elements into surrounding halos and deep space

Research suggests that galaxies actively launch large amounts of oxygen, carbon, and iron atoms up to a million light years away from their surroundings, leaving them with depleted reserves. This process, driven by violent supernovae and supermassive black holes, can take over 10 billion years.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 6, 2016

Inbred Neanderthals left humans a genetic burden

Non-African humans inherited marginally lower fitness due to Neanderthal inheritance, with estimated 40% reduction in reproductively fit individuals. The study suggests that these harmful gene variants continue to reduce the fitness of some populations today.

SourceGenetics Society of America·JournalGenetics·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

More is better: The diversity and number of soil animals determine leaf decomposition

Researchers found that diverse soil animal communities lead to better decomposition of leaves, regardless of region or management practices. A study of 80 forests in Germany and Sumatra revealed that high species richness and biomass explain spatial turnover in ecosystem functioning.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateJun 6, 2016

Dartmouth researchers develop a new method to transparently measure health care value

Researchers developed a new method to measure healthcare value transparently, combining quality and cost measures. They found that hospitals' ability to deliver high-quality, low-cost care varied across procedures, with those providing the highest-value care having more beds and beds than those providing the lowest-value care.

SourceThe Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateJun 6, 2016

Hearing problems reduce the quality of life of older people

Research finds that hearing problems impact older people's ability to communicate, move about, and participate in hobbies. Studies show that those with hearing issues have a limited life space and lower quality of life compared to those with good hearing.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalGerontology·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Babies don't just look cute, scientists find

Oxford University researchers found that infants' cuteness appeals to all senses, triggering caregiving behaviors vital for infant survival. This study reveals the complex choreography of slow, deliberate prosocial behaviors eliciting fundamental brain pleasure systems.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

War and peace in the human gut: Probing the microbiome

A new study examines the role of diet in promoting cooperation or conflict between gut microbes and human cells. The research proposes a framework for understanding the subtle interplay of diet and health, with potential implications for the management of inflammatory and metabolic disease.

SourceArizona State University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2016

Lean gene discovery could lead to new type 2 diabetes therapies

Researchers have identified a protein called TST that helps detoxify waste products in fat cells, leading to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced weight gain in obese mice. The study's findings suggest a potential new approach to treating type 2 diabetes associated with obesity.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 6, 2016
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.

Spiders put the bite on irritable bowel syndrome pain

Researchers discovered a specific protein in spider venom that stimulates pain-sensing nerves, underlying abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome patients. Developing molecules to block this protein could lead to novel treatments for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2016

New gene shown to cause Parkinson's disease

Researchers discovered mutations in TMEM230, a new gene linked to Parkinson's disease, in patients from North America and Asia. The gene produces a protein involved in dopamine packaging in neurons, which is crucial for movement disorder diagnosis.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 6, 2016
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.