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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 239


Page 239 of 423

A combined approach to treating metastatic melanoma

Researchers successfully treated a patient with metastatic melanoma using a combined approach of immunotherapy, including IL-21-primed polyclonal CTL plus CTLA4 blockade. The treatment led to the complete disappearance of tumors and sustained disease-free status for five years.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 30, 2016

Rice and mung beans as archaeological sources

Researchers analyzed crop remains from ancient sites in Madagascar and found a stark contrast between Eastern African and Asian crops. The findings suggest that Southeast Asians brought crops from their homeland to Madagascar, providing insights into the colonization process.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016

Bee populations expanded during global warming after the last Ice Age

Researchers found that Australian small carpenter bee populations flourished in the wake of global warming following the last Ice Age. The study's findings suggest that bees have responded similarly to climate change globally, which could be a positive sign for their survival.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalJournal of Hymenoptera Research·DateMay 30, 2016

Clouds and climate in the pre-industrial age

Researchers found that organic compounds from trees in pre-industrial times formed aerosols that counteracted greenhouse gas effects. The CLOUD experiment discovered a process where these low-volatility substances efficiently form new particles under atmospheric conditions, even without sulphuric acid.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature·DateMay 30, 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.

Narcotic painkillers prolong pain in rats, says CU-Boulder study

A new CU-Boulder study found that morphine treatment can cause chronic pain by exacerbating the release of pain signals from specific immune cells in the spinal cord. This could have far-reaching implications for humans, as opioids are already linked to thousands of fatal overdoses annually.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016

Remains of rice and mung beans help solve a Madagascan mystery

Researchers identified Asian crop remains in Madagascar, providing archaeological evidence of Southeast Asian colonization over 1,000 years ago. Genetic research confirms the connection between Malagasy speakers and Austronesian language families.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016

Google searches for 'chickenpox' reveal big impact of vaccinations

A University of Michigan-led study analyzing Google Trends data found a significant reduction in chickenpox searches following vaccination implementation in countries like Germany. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of immunization in reducing seasonal outbreaks and offers a novel way to track global childhood disease burdens.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016
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.

When it comes to claws, right-handed attracts the girls

A University of Adelaide study found that males with large claws on one side are more gregarious and attractive to females. The left-clawed males tend to disperse more rapidly and occupy more habitats, increasing their chances of encountering a female.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Crustacean Biology·DateMay 30, 2016

The brain clock that keeps memories ticking

Research from RIKEN Brain Science Institute in Japan identifies the brain clock that keeps memories organized across time. Without CA3 input, the neural orchestra loses its conductor, leading to errors in representing space and impairing accurate prediction of spatial location.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 30, 2016

Seeing 'living' nanofibers in real time

Researchers at Kyoto University have observed artificial nanofibers sorting themselves into organized structures under artificial conditions, a phenomenon similar to that seen in living cells. This achievement elucidates the mechanism of self-sorting and has potential applications in developing intelligent biomimics.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 30, 2016

Increased marrying, and mating, by education level not affecting genetic make-up

A study by NYU sociologist Dalton Conley found that while spouses are sorting themselves by education, it has no significant impact on the genetic makeup of subsequent generations. The research analyzed data from over 2,000 spousal pairs and found no notable trends in spousal similarity or fertility related to education-associated gene...

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 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.

Mouse study links heart regeneration to telomere length

Researchers discovered that heart muscle cell chromosomes rapidly erode after birth, limiting their ability to proliferate and replace damaged heart tissue. Maintaining telomere length may boost regenerative capacity, improving cardiac tissue recovery after a heart attack.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMay 30, 2016

Effects of maternal smoking continue long after birth

A new study found that early exposure to nicotine can trigger genetic changes affecting brain cell connections, leading to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other behavioral problems. Maternal smoking has been linked to these conditions, and the study provides a possible explanation for its long-term effects.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 30, 2016

Turning human waste into next generation biofuel

The Science Walden Pavillion at UNIST converts human waste into biodiesel and heat energy using a waterless toilet system and microbial energy production system. The project aims to establish an ecosystem that supports technology innovation and drives economic diversification.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMay 30, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Weed stems ripe for biofuel

Researchers have identified a type of wild sorghum, known as Arun, which yields significantly more bioethanol than other varieties. The plant's stems contain high levels of a component thought to inhibit bioethanol production, but a high level of easily fermentable sugar negates this effect.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 30, 2016

Heme, a poisonous nutrient, tracked by 'Green Lantern' sensor

For the first known time, researchers have tracked heme movement inside cells, revealing it is not always static. Labile heme serves as a nutrient and needs to be carefully trafficked through the cell to stay available.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016

Deep, old water explains why Antarctic Ocean hasn't warmed

New research reveals ocean currents explain why Antarctic Ocean has stayed at roughly the same temperature as most of the planet. Deep, centuries-old water is continually pulled up to the surface by constant westerly winds and great depths.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 30, 2016

New Cretaceous fossils shed light on the early evolution of ants

Cretaceous fossils provide insights into the early diversification of ants, with some species exhibiting advanced social behavior. The discovery of Ceratomyrmex ellenbergeri highlights the importance of morphological specializations in ant evolution.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 30, 2016
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.

Phoenix Nest and LA BioMed receive over $1.7 million in grant funding

Researchers at Phoenix Nest and LA BioMed are working on developing therapies for treating different forms of Sanfilippo disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects children. The new grants will focus on recombinant enzyme therapy and stem cell treatment to combat devastating brain damage caused by MPS IIID and MPS IIIB.

SourceLA BioMed·DateMay 30, 2016

Back to the future: Space-age exploration for pre-historic bones

Researchers used high-tech laser scanning, photogrammetry, and 3D mapping to create a detailed digital representation of the Rising Star Cave System and Dinaledi Chamber. The precise reconstruction provides new insights into the chamber's structure and location, as well as the fossil site's formation processes.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalSouth African Journal of Science·DateMay 30, 2016

'Dirty Blizzard' sent 2010 Gulf oil spill pollution to seafloor

A new study found that contaminants from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill persisted in the subsurface water for months, eventually accumulating on the seafloor as a 'dirty blizzard' of marine debris. The remnants of oil and drilling mud combined with microscopic algae to descend to great depths, affecting deep-sea fish and corals.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 30, 2016

Hydropower dams worldwide cause continued species extinction

A new study reveals that hydropower dams across the world are causing continued species extinctions on island habitats, with some communities losing up to 87% of their species. The research highlights the need for stronger environmental regulations and assessments to mitigate the impact of large-scale dam construction.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMay 30, 2016
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.

90-90-90 HIV initiative would yield 'extraordinary returns' in South Africa

Achieving the 90-90-90 targets for HIV diagnosis, treatment and virologic suppression in South Africa would have a transformative impact, averting millions of new infections, saving millions of lives and preventing orphanages. The initiative is estimated to yield enormous population and clinical benefits.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 30, 2016

Premature babies may grow up to have weaker bones

Adults born prematurely with low birth weight have lower bone mass than those born full term but small for gestational age. Ensuring a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, combined with exercise, may help reduce the risk of bone fractures later in life.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalEndocrine Abstracts·DateMay 29, 2016

Quiet please in the intensive care unit!

A study found that ICU noise levels significantly exceeded recommended limits, with average sound levels above 45 dBA and peaks exceeding 52 dBA. The authors recommend measures to reduce sound levels, including earplugs for patients and smart alarm systems.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·DateMay 29, 2016
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.

Study shows patients require less painkilling medication after breast-cancer surgery if they have opiate-free anesthesia

A study by Dr. Sarah Saxena found that breast cancer patients need fewer painkillers after non-opiate anesthesia, which may reduce side effects like nausea and vomiting. Non-opiate anesthesia could also potentially lower cancer recurrence rates, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·DateMay 29, 2016

Ever-changing moods may be toxic to the brain of bipolar patients

A new study finds that bipolar patients' blood is toxic to brain cells and affects neuron connectivity. The more episodes a patient has, the more cellular components are produced that impair the brain's ability to deal with environmental changes.

SourcePublicase International·JournalThe International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateMay 28, 2016

Restoring chemotherapy sensitivity by boosting microRNA levels

A research team at Georgia Institute of Technology identified a specific miRNA molecule that controls the genes governing chemotherapy resistance in human pancreatic cancer cells. Increasing this miRNA's level restored sensitivity to the drug in vitro, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for battling chemotherapy resistance.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalCancer Gene Therapy·DateMay 27, 2016

Journal of Dairy Science announces 2 new article collections

The Journal of Dairy Science has compiled two new collections of articles, one on stocking density for dairy cattle and the other on lactic acid bacteria. The stocking density collection includes 10 articles published between 2006 and 2015, while the lactic acid bacteria collection contains 30 articles published between 1962 and 2016.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateMay 27, 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.

NASA looks at winds in developing tropical cyclone

NASA's RapidScat instrument measured surface wind speeds near 46.9 mph/75.6 kph northeast of the system's center in System 91L. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) noted that the system has a high chance, 90 percent, of becoming a tropical depression.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 27, 2016

Baby talk words with repeated sounds help infants learn language

Researchers found that infants are better at learning words with repetitive syllables than those without. This bias may help explain why many baby-talk words have repeated syllables, such as 'choo-choo' and 'night-night'. The study suggests that repetition plays a key role in word learning from an early age.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalLanguage Learning and Development·DateMay 27, 2016

Genomic study tracks African-American dispersal in the Great Migration

Researchers analyzed genetic data from 3,726 African-Americans to estimate patterns of ancestry, finding that 82.1% had ancestors in Africa prior to transatlantic travel. The study reveals regional differences in ancestry, with southern US residents having a greater percentage of African ancestry than those in the North or West.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 27, 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.

Study finds that protein puts the brakes on melanin

Scientists at Brown University have discovered a molecular 'brake' that regulates melanin production in the eyes, skin, and hair. The study found that TPC2, a protein channel, reduces melanin production by increasing acidity in melanosomes.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 27, 2016

New model of T cell activation

Researchers from the University Freiburg have developed a new model of T cell activation, demonstrating that cholesterol prevents an immune response even when no antigen is present. The study reveals a specific interaction between cholesterol and inactive T cell receptors, regulating their conformation and activity.

SourceBIOSS - Centre for Biological Signalling Studies·JournalImmunity·DateMay 27, 2016

In wake of Flint crisis, new proposal seeks to 'focus on the fix' for lead poisoning

A leading expert outlines a three-point plan to identify and eliminate all sources of lead exposure nationwide. The plan emphasizes finding lead hazards in homes and pipes, fixing them using proven interim methods, and funding efforts to hold accountable companies producing lead-contaminated products.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateMay 27, 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.

At the top of their game

Research highlights factors necessary for successful apex predator recovery, including disease regulation and biodiversity maintenance. The study reveals that full recovery is the exception rather than the rule, with many species facing complex challenges in their recovery pathways.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 27, 2016

ANKRD55: A new gene involved in Multiple Sclerosis is discovered

A new gene, ANKRD55, has been discovered to play a significant role in the neuro-inflammation process of Multiple Sclerosis. The study found that genetic variants associated with MS increase the production of ANKRD55 transcripts in immune cells, suggesting a key gene involved in deregulation.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMay 27, 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.

Study: Social media use may help identify students at risk of alcohol problems

A recent study by North Carolina State University and Ohio University found that college students with an 'alcohol identity' are more likely to experience drinking problems. The researchers also discovered that posting about alcohol on social media sites is a stronger predictor of these problems than actual alcohol use.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateMay 27, 2016

Tasty fat: X-rays finding the blueprint of why fat is yummy

Scientists study the molecular structure of edible fats using X-rays, discovering that the ratio of solids to liquids affects a fat's properties. They also investigate the impact of replacing saturated fats with unsaturated alternatives on taste and texture.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalFood Chemistry·DateMay 27, 2016

Blood test supports use of potential new treatment for patients with stomach cancer

A new blood test has identified a subset of patients with stomach cancer who are most likely to respond to treatment. The test measures the number of copies of the FGFR2 gene in cancer DNA circulating in the bloodstream, revealing that tumours with many copies of this gene were particularly susceptible to an experimental drug.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateMay 27, 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.

Study shows tax on plug-in vehicles is not answer to road-funding woes

Researchers at Indiana University argue that annual registration fees for plug-in vehicles are misguided due to their minimal impact on road infrastructure funding. The decline in federal tax revenue is primarily attributed to increased fuel efficiency and non-adjusted fuel taxes, not plug-in vehicles.

SourceIndiana University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateMay 27, 2016

Research reveals that sharks have individual personalities

A new study reveals that Port Jackson sharks have distinct personality traits, including boldness and handling stress reactivity. These differences are repeatable in juvenile sharks and may influence their interactions with habitat and other species.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Fish Biology·DateMay 27, 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.

Hawk moths have a second nose for evaluating flowers

Researchers discovered that hawk moths can smell floral volatiles using olfactory neurons on their proboscis. This allows them to select flowers with sufficient nectar, leading to successful pollination and seed production. The study highlights the importance of scent in flower-pollinator interactions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·DateMay 27, 2016

Expert urges voluntary family planning to mitigate climate change

A leading physician argues that family planning is highly cost-effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advocates for voluntary family planning as a crucial strategy. Studies show that having one less child can reduce carbon legacy by up to 9441 tonnes, more than other eco-actions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 27, 2016