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Science News Archive 2016 - Page 355


Page 355 of 423

Single dose of trastuzumab kick starts immune response in certain breast cancers

A single dose of trastuzumab kick starts an immune response in certain HER2-positive breast cancers, with women having the highest rate of immune response being those with the HER2-enriched subtype. The immune-cell-activating properties of trastuzumab are likely related to the subtypes of breast cancer.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 29, 2016

New laser achieves wavelength long sought by laser developers

Researchers at the University of Bath created a new type of laser that can emit mid-infrared light between 3.1 and 3.2 microns, a range previously difficult to achieve. The breakthrough uses silica hollow-core fibers to confine light and enable gas-mid-IR interaction.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalOptica·DateFeb 29, 2016

Students binge drink less in locales with more affirmative LGBTQ school climates

A new study found that students who attend schools with programs and policies supporting LGBTQ youth are less likely to binge drink, regardless of their sexual identity. Living in states or cities with more affirmative school climates was associated with fewer binge drinking days for gay/lesbian and heterosexual students.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 29, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Chronic conditions rise in older people

A study of over 15,000 people found a 10% rise in older adults developing second or third chronic conditions, while physically active individuals were healthier. The prevalence of multimorbidity increased from 31.7% to 43.1% between 2002/03 and 2012/13.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateFeb 29, 2016

Nanoparticles on nanosteps

A new study by SISSA/CNR IOM scientists reduces wastage of expensive catalysts used in fuel cells, allowing for more efficient and sustainable energy production. The researchers created nanoparticles on nanosteps, which remain dispersed and stable, enabling the material to be reused with lower costs.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 29, 2016

Sexual health communication between Asian-American adolescents and health-care providers

A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Research found that Asian-American adolescents desire more open discussions about sexual health with healthcare providers. Key themes included confidentiality concerns, a general lack of knowledge regarding STIs and contraception, and hesitation to discuss sexual histories. Providers can a...

SourceMedica Research Institute·JournalJournal of Adolescent Research·DateFeb 29, 2016

Survey: Americans would pay more to support biodiversity

A national survey found that most Americans are willing to pay more taxes to support biodiversity conservation in the Gulf of Mexico. The survey showed that people value preserving biodiversity for future generations and are willing to pay between $35 to $107 more annually for the expansion of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sa...

SourceDuke University·JournalMarine Resource Economics·DateFeb 29, 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.

Offsetting climate change's effects

A Harvard University study finds that grasslands across North America will experience an earlier start to the spring growing season and warmer winter temperatures, offsetting climate change's negative effects. However, this shift in seasonal patterns presents new management challenges for farmers and ranchers.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 29, 2016

Study finds 5x increase in hand sanitizer use when located in hospital

A three-week observational study at Greenville Memorial Hospital found that placing alcohol-based hand sanitizers in the middle of a hospital lobby floor increased visitor usage by 528 percent. The study also identified demographic factors influencing hand sanitizer use, such as age and group dynamics.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateFeb 29, 2016

New software provides an overview of the big data of genome sequencing

A new software called EaSeq enables biomedical researchers to study and test hypotheses using their own data in a matter of hours. This analytical tool improves the analysis of ChIP sequencing data, which holds potential for clinical applications.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 29, 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.

Is rare wildlife traded on the darknet?

Research by the University of Kent finds that illegal wildlife trade is facilitated by the global internet, but trade on the darknet is surprisingly low. The study suggests that poor enforcement and easy access to online platforms have led to a negligible amount of trade on anonymous networks.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 29, 2016

Improved imaging takes x-ray risks out of the picture

A new study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine shows that electroanatomical mapping is an effective alternative to fluoroscopy, reducing radiation exposure and improving patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Innovations in Cardiac Rhythm Management·DateFeb 29, 2016

Blood vessels sprout under pressure

Researchers discovered how small capillaries form during angiogenesis, a process crucial for embryonic development, cancer, and diabetes. Blood pressure drives the membrane of endothelial cells to cave in and grow into the cell's body.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 29, 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.

Black widows are color-coded to deter predators without tipping off prey

Researchers found that black widow spiders' red hourglass markings are more visible to birds than to insects, helping them avoid detection by predators while still warning off potential prey. This study highlights the complex communication strategies used by animals to adapt to their environments and evade threats.

SourceDuke University·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateFeb 29, 2016

Plankton feces could move plastic pollution to the ocean depths

Research from the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory reveals that plankton ingesting microplastics produce faeces that sink more slowly, allowing plastic to be transported to deeper waters. This process could have significant implications for marine ecosystems and the removal of floating plastic litter.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 29, 2016

Doctor, patient expectations differ on fitness and lifestyle tracking

A study by University of Washington researchers found that doctors struggle to review patients' self-tracked data due to lack of capacity and tools. However, when patients provide organized and summarized data through paper diaries or specific tracking tools, providers can use it effectively in diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateFeb 29, 2016

High-protein canola meal beneficial for growing pigs

Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that high-protein canola meal is a valuable ingredient in swine diets, offering similar digestible energy and amino acid profiles to soybean meal. The study found improved digestibility of crude protein and amino acids in high-protein canola meal compared to conventional canola meal.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAnimal Feed Science and Technology·DateFeb 29, 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.

Autoimmune diseases gonna be defeated

Scientists designed a novel bispecific antibody that selectively blocks overproduction of TNF, a protein harmful when overproduced in autoimmune diseases. The prototype shows promise for treating conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 29, 2016

Nanotechnology delivery system offers new approach to skin disease therapies

Researchers at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed a nanotechnology-based delivery system that activates the body's natural defense against free radicals. This system could control various skin pathologies and disorders by inducing antioxidant enzymes and maintaining skin cell redox balance.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCosmetics·DateFeb 29, 2016

Metabolic phenotyping of blood plasma allows for the detection of lung cancer

A new method using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H-NMR) of blood plasma identifies unique metabolic biomarkers for early and late-stage lung cancer. The technique correctly classifies 78% of patients and 92% of controls, showing promise as a complementary tool to improve lung cancer screening.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 29, 2016

Quick thinking and feeling healthy predict longer life

A longitudinal study of over 6,000 adults found that lower self-rated health and age-related decrements in processing speed are strong predictors of mortality risk. Being a woman and having better perceived health were also associated with reduced mortality risk.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 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.

New UTSA study delves into what makes a great leader

According to Dr. Dina Krasikova, a confident leader can boost their subordinates' creativity, trust and productivity. A study by UTSA found that leaders who value creativity must set an example themselves, fostering high-quality interpersonal relationships with their team.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateFeb 29, 2016

Lung-MAP precision medicine trial makes exciting changes

The Lung Cancer Master Protocol (Lung-MAP) trial is a groundbreaking collaboration that uses genomic profiling to match patients with promising new treatments. With the addition of nivolumab, an FDA-approved immunotherapy, the trial offers innovative therapies for advanced stage squamous cell lung cancer.

SourceSWOG·DateFeb 29, 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.

Study links normal stem cells to aggressive prostate cancer

A study by the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center reveals that adult stem cells in the prostate basal cell layer express genes similar to those found in deadly prostate cancer, offering a potential new line of treatment for highly aggressive and therapy-resistant forms.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 29, 2016

Study finds no link between insomnia and cholesterol levels

A recent study published in the journal SLEEP found that people with insomnia do not have higher levels of cholesterol than those without. However, insomniacs who take sleeping pills were found to have significantly higher levels of LDL cholesterol.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalSLEEP·DateFeb 29, 2016

Researchers make key improvement in solar cell technology

The research team improved cell voltage by shifting away from a standard processing step using cadmium chloride. This approach enabled the fabrication of CdTe solar cells with an open-circuit voltage breaking the 1-volt barrier for the first time.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 29, 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.

Three 'twisted' photons in 3 dimensions

Researchers have achieved a new milestone in quantum physics by entangling three particles of light in a high-dimensional quantum property. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize quantum encryption and secure communication, enabling multiple parties to share information with unconditional security.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 29, 2016

Scripps Florida scientists find way to predict activity of stem cells

Researchers at Scripps Florida Institute have developed a new method to predict the activity of stem cells in treating various diseases. The Clinical Indications Prediction scale uses TWIST1 levels to determine therapeutic potential, highlighting the importance of considering both angiogenesis and anti-inflammatory effects.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 29, 2016

Study identifies racial bias in US court sentencing decisions

Researchers analyzed over 17,000 South Carolina court decisions to find that black offenders are more likely to be jailed and serve longer sentences than their white counterparts. The study highlights racial bias in sentencing decisions, with the 'black penalty' varying depending on an offender's criminal history.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Quantitative Criminology·DateFeb 29, 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.

Major advances and ongoing challenges for gene therapy in SCID-X1

Gene therapy has made significant progress in treating X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID-X1), with hematopoietic stem cells showing promise for a cure. However, ongoing challenges include improving safety and achieving long-term immune reconstitution, highlighting the need for continued research and development.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateFeb 29, 2016

New insights into how antiarrhythmic drugs work

Researchers discovered that multi-target antiarrhythmic drugs like amiodarone change cell membrane properties, altering the function of multiple proteins. This finding has implications beyond AF treatment, suggesting a general mechanism for drug-induced changes in membrane protein function.

SourceBiophysical Society·DateFeb 29, 2016

MOOC instructors may need more support for successful courses

Researchers found that most MOOC instructors face challenges throughout the course development and instruction process, including preparation, implementation, and feedback phases. Instructors reported heavy workloads, overwhelming expectations, and difficulty in providing one-on-one guidance in a large online class.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 29, 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.

Making better enzymes and protein drugs

Scientists at VIB discover that mutations at specific positions can suppress protein aggregation, increasing solubility. This breakthrough could enable the production of protein drugs and enzymes with improved stability and functionality.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 29, 2016

Active surveillance of low-grade prostate cancer alternative to overtreatment

Men with low-grade prostate cancer are increasingly opting for active surveillance, a management strategy that monitors the cancer's progression without immediate treatment. The study found that about 59% of patients managed by active surveillance remained on this approach after five years.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 29, 2016

Sleep loss boosts hunger and unhealthy food choices

A study published in SLEEP found that sleep deprivation amplifies the joy of eating, particularly sweet and salty high-fat snack foods. Sleep-restricted participants ate nearly twice as much fat as those with normal sleep, despite minimal energy needs.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalSLEEP·DateFeb 29, 2016

NYU study defines social motivations of urban farms

A new NYU study reveals that three out of four top reasons urban farmers grow crops are driven by social motivations, including food security, education, and community building. The research also finds that many urban farms operate as nonprofits, shifting financial focus from sales to donations and grants.

SourceNew York University·JournalBritish Food Journal·DateFeb 29, 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.

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.

Risk of catching Ebola from survivor 'very low'

The risk of catching Ebola from a survivor is very low, with most body fluids cleared within weeks apart from semen. Studies found that infected blood is the most infectious, but social contact poses little risk.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 29, 2016

New Geosphere article examines massive 2014 Colorado avalanche

A 54.5 million cubic meter snow avalanche occurred in western Colorado, killing three people. The study used large-scale field mapping and seismic signals to analyze the avalanche's movement phases, shedding light on rock-avalanche modeling and ongoing hazards.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateFeb 29, 2016

Nuclear export of opioid growth factor receptor is CRM1 dependent

Researchers at The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine discovered that the nuclear export of the opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr) is CRM1 dependent. OGFr must translocate into the nucleus to facilitate its role in cell cycle regulation and does so utilizing nuclear localization signals and β and Ran proteins.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateFeb 29, 2016