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Science News Archive April 2016


Page 37 of 39

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Salmonella-based oral vaccine a promising therapy for preventing type 1 diabetes

A new study suggests that a combined vaccine therapy using live Salmonella is safe and effective in preventing diabetes in mice. The vaccine works by rebalancing the immune system and preventing the attack on insulin-producing cells. Researchers believe this targeted immunotherapy has great potential for treating type 1 diabetes.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

SSRI antidepressants promote bone loss during lactation

Researchers found that SSRI antidepressants cause decreased bone density in mothers during lactation, leading to higher risks of fractures. Folic acid supplementation may mitigate this effect, suggesting women may need more folic acid while breast-feeding.

BEAT hunger with safe, nonsurgical weight loss treatment

A safe, minimally invasive treatment called bariatric arterial embolization (BAE) has been shown to lead to sustained weight loss in severely obese people. BAE targets the stomach's hunger hormone production, reducing appetite and resulting in significant weight loss.

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.

SAPIEN 3 improves outcomes for major endpoints at 1 year

Intermediate-risk patients who received TAVR with SAPIEN 3 had improved outcomes compared to surgical aortic valve replacement after one year. The trial showed reduced rates of death, stroke, and moderate or severe aortic insufficiency in TAVR patients.

Deferred stenting shows no clinical benefit

The DANAMI-3-DEFER trial found that delayed stent implantation in STEMI patients did not reduce death from any cause, hospitalization for heart failure, or subsequent heart attacks. The study's findings contradict previous promising preliminary studies and may be due to the trial's limited sample size and patient selection.

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.

Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation bestows annual awards

Renan Uflacker received the Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation's Leaders in Innovation Award for his pioneering work in interventional radiology. The award recognized his contributions to transforming the field through innovative treatments for liver disease, peripheral vascular disease and aneurysms.

Statin intolerance objectively identified in patients

A new study by the Cleveland Clinic has identified statin intolerance objectively, showing that evolocumab is a more effective option for lowering cholesterol in patients who are intolerant to multiple statins. The PCSK9 inhibitor reduced cholesterol levels by 52.8%, while ezetimibe had a smaller reduction of 16.7%.

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.

Patients with chest pain benefit from decision aid tool used with physician

Patients who received a physician discussion using Chest Pain Choice increased their knowledge about their risk and options, answering 53% of questions correctly. The study also found that patients who used the tool were more likely to recommend discussing their care with their physicians, 68.9% compared to 61.2%.

Higher volume of TAVR boosts key in-hospital outcomes

A higher volume of TAVR procedures is associated with improved patient outcomes, including lower death rates and vascular complications. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 50,000 patients, found that even hospitals performing fewer than 100 cases showed significant improvements in patient outcomes with higher procedure volumes.

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.

More dietary calcium may lower risk of cardiovascular disease

New research from South Korea suggests that higher dietary calcium intake may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease in older people, but not stroke and fracture risk. In a population with low calcium intake, higher dietary calcium was significantly associated with decreased risk of CVD.