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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 311


Page 311 of 423

Earth's internal heat drives rapid ice flow and subglacial melting in Greenland

A study by GFZ researchers reveals that Earth's internal heat is responsible for the rapid flow of Greenland's ice, driven by a geothermal anomaly that originated from the Icelandic mantle plume. The anomaly creates a region with abundant subglacial meltwater, lubricating the base of the ice and making it flow rapidly.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 4, 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.

Kicking the habit

Neuroscientists at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown in Lisbon report novel findings that challenge the way the scientific community has been thinking about how actions are selected and habits are formed. The study reveals that two competing pathways in the Basal Ganglia work concurrently to promote distinct, positive outcomes.

SourceJLM&A, SA·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 4, 2016

Fishing for the future of coral reefs

Caribbean coral reefs face mounting pressure from global warming, local pollution, and over-fishing of herbivorous fish. A new study suggests that implementing size limits and catch limits can help maintain reef resilience. The research provides tools for fisheries managers to revise current practices and sustain fishers' livelihoods.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

Researchers use single molecule of DNA to create world's smallest diode

Researchers have demonstrated that nanoscale electronic components can be made from single DNA molecules, representing a promising advance in the search for a replacement for silicon chips. The discovery may lead to smaller, more powerful and more advanced electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 4, 2016

Report reviews 10 years of shared decision making at Massachusetts General Hospital

The report from MGH and Partners HealthCare examines the first decade of a Shared Decision Making Program, which aims to match patients with the right treatment at the right time. The program has seen significant increases in patient engagement and clinician confidence, particularly after integrating decision aids into routine care.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateApr 4, 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.

Relationships in distress find support in web-based program, OurRelationship.com

A nationwide study found that a web-based program improved relationship satisfaction and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in 300 couples. The program, developed by University of Miami psychologists, was completed online with minimal calls with project staff, offering an affordable alternative to traditional counseling.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateApr 4, 2016

Two atrial fibrillation ablation techniques equal on efficacy and safety

The FIRE AND ICE trial showed that radiofrequency and cryoballoon ablation are equally effective in treating atrial fibrillation, with similar rates of recurrence and no significant differences in safety outcomes. Cryoballoon patients were more likely to experience phrenic nerve injury, but this was rare and resolved in most cases.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016

Study reveals new way lungs respond in asthma attacks

Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a new biochemical process that controls lung function and contraction during asthma. Disrupting this process can prevent airway narrowing and maintain normal lung function.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

For post-operative atrial fibrillation, 2 common treatments show equal outcomes

A new study found that two common treatments for post-operative atrial fibrillation, rhythm control and rate control, are equally safe and effective. The study, conducted by the Cardiothoracic Surgical Trials Network, showed that both strategies were associated with low rates of complications and no difference in hospital days.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

TSRI scientists: Immune cell transforms from 'Clark Kent' to 'Superman'

Researchers at TSRI isolated a unique Treg cell from a mouse model of type 1 diabetes and discovered it originates in the thymus, giving rise to two functional states: an nTreg with active FoxP3 and a pre-nTreg without. This discovery opens new avenues for developing novel therapies to prevent autoimmune diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

New immune-stimulating drug, with chemo, shrinks pancreas tumors

A phase 1b clinical trial shows that an experimental therapy can control pancreatic cancer tumors well enough to make patients eligible for surgery. The treatment, PF-04136309, was found to be safe and effective when combined with chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateApr 4, 2016

How crispy is your bonbon?

A new theory predicts the mechanical response of shells, from small pharmaceutical capsules to large airplane bodies. By controlling a few key variables, engineers can create uniformly smooth shells with precisely tailored thickness, with applications far beyond the chocolate shop.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 4, 2016

Bioengineer's gut biome sensors earn NSF backing

Rice University bioengineer Jeffrey Tabor has developed next-generation sensors using bacterial two-component systems to probe the gut for early signs of inflammation. The technology aims to revolutionize diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.

SourceRice University·DateApr 4, 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.

Study finds brain marker of poor memory in schizophrenia patients

A new study has identified a pattern of brain activity linked to memory problems in people with schizophrenia. The findings provide evidence that the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is compromised in patients with schizophrenia and may be a specific target for treatment.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 4, 2016

When the oxygen kills

Researchers identified a gene mutation increasing superoxide production, which damages DNA and cellular components. The study also shows the importance of understanding living systems and developing therapies for patients with related gene mutations.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016

New study shows increased flooding, accelerated sea-level rise in Miami over last decade

A new University of Miami-led study found significant increases in flooding frequency in Miami Beach over the last decade due to accelerated sea-level rise. The researchers suggest using regional sea-level rise projections to better prepare for future flood hazards in South Florida.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·DateApr 4, 2016

The ups and downs of transportation within cells

Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered a new role for the gene Rab6 in cell polarity, which directs proteins to specific sides of cells. The study found that Rab6 distinguishes between proteins destined for different parts of the cell, shedding light on how cells maintain their orientation.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 4, 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.

A chink in the armor of breast cancer cells

A team of scientists has turned off a key protein that fuels the growth of aggressive breast cancer cells, making them more vulnerable to chemotherapy. The study reveals a pivotal catalyst in the development of triple-negative breast cancer and paves the way for new therapies.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalCell Cycle·DateApr 4, 2016

Potential pathway for emergence of zoonotic malaria identified

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health identifies a sugar variant on the surface of human red blood cells that limits the ability of P. knowlesi to invade. The parasite has been shown to evolve and overcome this barrier, potentially leading to enhanced transmission between humans.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 4, 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.

Cell therapy may mend damaged hearts, study says

A new study finds that end-stage heart failure patients who received stem cell therapy experienced a 37 percent reduction in cardiac events, including deaths and hospital admissions. The treatment showed fewer side effects and complications compared to the placebo group.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 4, 2016

New human on chip technology permits unparalleled insight into cellular function dynamics

Researchers developed a new Liver-on-Chip device with glucose and lactate micro-sensors to track metabolic function in real-time, enabling detection of chemical toxicity before cellular damage. The technology has the potential to redefine studies on neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and drug discovery.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

Common pesticides kill amphibian parasites, study finds

A recent study found that six commonly used insecticides kill amphibian parasites, potentially decreasing the number of parasites an amphibian must defend against. The study also showed population-specific differences in pesticide resistance, highlighting the importance of considering multiple populations when assessing toxicity.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalParasitology·DateApr 4, 2016

New study describes altered brain activity in response to desirable foods

A new study published in Diabetologia found that the GLP-1 analog drug liraglutide decreases activation in the brain's cortex when individuals are shown images of desirable foods, making these foods less appealing. This suggests that liraglutide may be an effective weight loss therapy for people who tend to eat as a reward.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalDiabetologia·DateApr 4, 2016

New state of matter detected in a two-dimensional material

A team of researchers has found evidence of a mysterious new state of matter, known as a quantum spin liquid, in a real two-dimensional material. The discovery matches theoretical models and could lead to the development of faster quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 4, 2016
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.

New app improves treatment of atrial fibrillation

A new biomarker-based tool, 'ABC risk score,' allows for personalized treatment to prevent strokes with minimal bleeding complications. The app is available as a web-based instrument and will soon be available as an app.

SourceUppsala University·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 4, 2016

New fluorescent probes help solve cell membrane mystery

Researchers have successfully observed raft domains in live cells using new fluorescent probes, revealing dynamic interactions between gangliosides and cholesterol. The findings open up new avenues for investigating how toxins, bacteria, and viruses invade cells through these membrane structures.

SourceInstitute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 4, 2016

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai to present findings at ACC

Researchers from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai present new findings on CABG alone or with mitral valve repair for moderate ischemic MR, as well as rate versus rhythm control in patients with postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateApr 4, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Death of an independent director leads CEOs to make fewer acquisitions

A recent study found that CEOs who experience an independent director's death engage in significantly fewer acquisitions, with a decrease of nearly 4% and lower acquisition values. This may be due to increased mortality awareness, prompting CEOs to pursue a quieter life and scale back on extrinsic goals.

SourceRice University·JournalStrategic Management Journal·DateApr 4, 2016

Queen's University microbiologists unmask the Hannibal route enigma

Researchers used microbial metagenome analysis and environmental chemistry to find the most likely transit route Hannibal's forces took across the Alps, pinpointing the Col de Traversette pass as a key crossing point. The study, published in Archaeometry, provides solid evidence for Hannibal's route, dating back to 218 BC.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalArchaeometry·DateApr 4, 2016

Fentanyl patch prescribing still not safe in 50 percent of prescriptions

A recent study found that 74% of fentanyl patch prescriptions were not safe due to insufficient prior opioid exposure. The prescribing guidelines for the 50 µg/h dose are often not followed, especially among patients over 65, who are at a higher risk of adverse outcomes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 4, 2016

Unraveling truly one-dimensional carbon solids

Researchers have synthesized micrometer length-scale carbon chains, surpassing previous records by more than one order of magnitude. The discovery confirms the existence of ultra-long linear carbon chains, also known as carbyne, using various advanced spectroscopic and microscopic techniques.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 4, 2016

Shorter, intensive radiation can be recommended in early prostate cancer

A national study found that a shorter, intensive radiation therapy schedule of about 5.5 weeks was comparable to the standard 8-week regimen in terms of controlling cancer, while also reducing treatment duration and costs. The researchers reported slightly more mild side effects in patients receiving the shorter schedule.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 4, 2016
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.

Tiny tubes move into the fast lane

Carbon nanotubes as small as eight-tenths of a nanometer in diameter can transport protons faster than bulk water. Researchers validated a 200-year-old mechanism by creating one-dimensional water wires that allow for enhanced proton conductivity.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 4, 2016

Study links disparities in pain management to racial bias

A University of Virginia study found that false beliefs about biological differences between black and white people contribute to undertreated pain among black patients. White medical students and residents who held these false beliefs showed lower pain ratings and less accurate treatment recommendations for black patients.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

UEA research reveals 'topsy turvy' ocean circulation on distant planets

New research from UEA's Centre for Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences found that oceans on distant Earth-like planets with varying salinity levels can significantly impact their climates. The study discovered that extreme salinity levels could lead to dramatic warming in polar regions, potentially extending a planet's habitability.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 4, 2016

New metallic glass bounces

Researchers have created a new metallic glass with an unusual chemical structure that makes it incredibly hard and yet elastic. The material can withstand heavy impacts without deforming and retains most of its original strength.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 4, 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.

Biotech breakthrough: Sunlight can be used to produce chemicals and energy

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered a method to break down plant biomass using sunlight, potentially producing biofuels and biochemicals. The process, known as reverse photosynthesis, uses enzymes and chlorophyll to accelerate chemical reactions, reducing pollution and increasing production speed.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 4, 2016

Trial offers objective evidence of muscle-related side effects with statins

A recent clinical trial provides objective evidence of muscle-related side effects associated with statins. Evolocumab was found to be superior to ezetimibe in reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The study's findings have significant implications for treating patients with statin intolerance.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016

Bone density lower with use of ADHD stimulant medicine

A new study by the Endocrine Society finds that children and teenagers taking ADHD stimulant medications may have lower bone density, a condition that can increase fracture risk or osteoporosis later in adulthood. The study suggests that these patients may need monitoring of their bone health during treatment.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateApr 3, 2016
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.

Elevated troponin linked to mental stress ischemia in heart disease patients

Research discovered that individuals with coronary artery disease exhibit higher baseline troponin levels independently of stress or chest pain, indicating repeated ischemic events. Mental stress tests revealed a significant increase in troponin levels, even after the event, suggesting psychological triggers play a role

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateApr 3, 2016

Evacetrapib fails to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events

A large clinical trial of evacetrapib, a CETP inhibitor, showed no reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events, despite significant increases in HDL and decreases in LDL cholesterol levels. The study's findings challenge conventional thinking on the benefits of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 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.

International technology-based competition associated with more exercise

A technology-based competition increased daily physical activity levels by over 3,500 steps per day and led to significant weight loss. The study, which involved over 68,000 participants from 64 countries, found improvements in exercise frequency, sitting time reduction, and overall health.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016

JVIR, SIR Foundation honor studies that improve patient care

The Society of Interventional Radiology honored two research papers for their impact on patient care. Dong Il Gwon's study validated a rapid PARTO procedure for treating gastric varices, while Ron C. Gaba's research explored gene expression in hepatocellular carcinoma for improved treatment outcomes.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateApr 3, 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.

Genes causing high cholesterol are less common than previously thought

A study found that only 2% of people with very high cholesterol have a familial hypercholesterolemia mutation, but those with the mutation face a six times higher risk of early-onset coronary artery disease. Genetic screening could help identify and ward off cardiovascular disease in affected individuals.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016