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Science News Archive April 2016 - Page 3


Page 3 of 39

Scientists predict cell changes that affect breast cancer growth

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute identify structural changes in estrogen receptor binding molecules linked to regulating cancer growth. The study reveals predictive features of ligand-specific signaling through the receptor, moving closer to developing more effective treatments for breast cancer.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·DateApr 28, 2016

Fungal spores could 'hijack' human immune cells to spread infection

Researchers discovered that fungal spores can infect human immune cells, allowing them to transport themselves and cause systemic infections. The discovery sheds light on the ecological adaptation of Aspergillus terreus and its potential for detrimental effects in human infections.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 28, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Friends 'better than morphine'

Research at University of Oxford found that individuals with more friends have a higher pain tolerance due to increased endorphin release, which promotes social bonding and pleasure. Additionally, the study discovered correlations between fitter people, those with higher stress levels, and smaller social networks.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 28, 2016

WSU researcher improves mental health evaluations

A new assessment tool has been developed to gauge the risk of patients with mental illnesses committing crimes, improving upon the current evaluation system. The tool aims to strike a balance between patient rights and freedoms and public safety, facilitating quicker evaluations and hospitalizations for high-risk patients.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology·DateApr 28, 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.

Science news story on Sci-Hub provides detailed view of user base; related editorial

A recent study on Sci-Hub usage reveals that the site's millions of users are scattered across the globe, with significant activity detected in China, India, and Iran. The study also highlights the unintended consequences of Sci-Hub's illegal paper acquisition methods, including the impact on libraries and scientific communities.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Reptiles share sleep patterns with mammals and birds after all

A new study reveals that reptiles, like mammals and birds, experience REM and slow-wave sleep patterns. This discovery suggests a common ancestor for these sleep states, evolving over 300 million years ago in amniotes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Possible extragalactic source of high-energy neutrinos

A team of scientists has linked a record-breaking neutrino detected by IceCube to an explosion in the galaxy PKS B1424-418, which was observed in 2012. The researchers calculated a 5-percent probability that the two events were unrelated.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 28, 2016

Amazon rainforest responds quickly to extreme climate events

A new study reveals that tropical ecosystems like the Amazon may be more sensitive to climate change than previously thought. The research found that the Amazon can experience large shifts in its carbon balance in response to extreme heat and drought, with these changes occurring surprisingly quickly.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateApr 28, 2016

Nine chemical compounds induced fibroblasts to act as cardiac cells

Researchers have identified nine chemical compounds that can transform human fibroblasts into cardiomyocyte-like cells, which can then be used to partially heal damaged hearts. This breakthrough could lead to new avenues for cardiac regenerative therapies.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 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.

Bearded dragons show REM and slow wave sleep

Scientists have discovered REM and slow-wave sleep in bearded dragons, a finding that suggests brain sleep dates back at least to the evolution of amniotes. The study's authors believe that this common origin is more plausible than convergent evolution, given the early branching out of reptiles.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Lifestyle has a strong impact on intestinal bacteria

A large-scale study has found that lifestyle factors significantly impact the diversity of intestinal bacteria, with a diverse microbiome associated with better health outcomes. The study analyzed DNA from over 1,100 participants and identified 60 dietary factors that influence gut bacteria diversity.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Personal cooling units on the horizon

Researchers at Penn State have developed a nanowire array that can cool about 5.5 degrees Fahrenheit using 36 volts, an electric field level safe for humans. The material is flexible, can be powered by a 500g battery pack for two hours, and could potentially be incorporated into firefighting gear or athletic uniforms.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 28, 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.

Taiwanese government should provide more support for solar panel industry

Researchers recommend increased subsidies and public funding to help Taiwanese solar producers develop advanced technology and compete globally. The study highlights the need for policymakers to encourage collaboration between academics and industry experts to drive innovation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateApr 28, 2016

A long-noncoding RNA regulates repair of DNA breaks in triple-negative breast cancer cells

A new study has identified a long non-coding RNA that plays a crucial role in the repair of DNA breaks in triple-negative breast cancer cells. The research found that blocking this RNA significantly increases sensitivity to radiation therapy, providing new insight into the biology of this tough-to-treat breast cancer subtype.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateApr 28, 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.

Co-expression of alternative gene products helps neurons take shape

A new study suggests that neurons often co-express functionally distinct alternative products from the same gene, facilitating acquisition of complex shapes and functions. Co-expression of alternative variants is essential for proper development of axons and dendrites in mice.

SourceKing's College London·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 28, 2016

Texas A&M study shows risk factors associated with injurious falls

A nationwide study by Texas A&M University found that approximately 15% of people in residential care facilities suffer from injurious falls. The majority of these falls occurred among female residents who required assistance with daily activities and lived in larger facilities.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Aging and Health·DateApr 28, 2016

Black raspberry improves cardiovascular risk in metabolic syndrome

A randomized controlled trial found that black raspberry extract significantly lowers arterial stiffness, a key indicator of cardiovascular disease. The study also showed increased levels of endothelial progenitor cells, which help repair damaged arteries.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Medicinal Food·DateApr 28, 2016

How cancer cells escape from tumors and spread

Cancer cells' ability to slide past obstacles and travel out of primary tumors is enabled by abnormal protein fiber scaffolding and the agility of cancer cells themselves. The researchers developed a model environment that mimics protein fibers, allowing them to observe and quantify the behavior of breast cancer cells.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateApr 28, 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.

Gene therapy shows long-term benefit for treating rare blindness

A pioneering gene therapy has restored vision to patients with a rare form of genetic blindness for up to four years, providing sustained improvement and raising hopes for a cure. The treatment involves injecting a virus into the eye to deliver billions of healthy genes, replacing a key missing gene.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 28, 2016

Study links residential radon exposure to hematologic cancers in women

A new study found a statistically significant association between high levels of residential radon and the risk of hematologic cancer in women. The analysis included over 140,000 participants and showed a 63% higher risk of hematologic cancer in counties with the highest mean radon concentration.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateApr 28, 2016

Cell transplant treats Parkinson's in mice under control of designer drug

A University of Wisconsin-Madison neuroscientist has successfully inserted a genetic switch into nerve cells to regulate dopamine production with designer drugs. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a new Parkinson's disease treatment and expand its application to other conditions.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 28, 2016

Possible substitute for antibiotics to treat dangerous infections

Researchers at Lund University have found a promising new therapeutic target to treat bacterial infections, regulating the immune response and avoiding destructive inflammation. The discovery of IRF-7 as an immunotherapeutic target holds promise for non-antibiotic therapy.

SourceLund University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 28, 2016

Study explains how low testosterone raises diabetes risk

Researchers have identified how low testosterone raises diabetes risk by impairing insulin regulation in the pancreas. Testosterone triggers key signaling mechanisms that produce insulin, and its absence leads to glucose intolerance.

SourceTulane University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 28, 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.

Trinity scientists reveal origin of Earth's oldest crystals

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin found that the oldest zircon crystals likely formed in massive asteroid impact craters rather than through plate tectonics. The discovery sheds new light on Earth's early history and suggests a more violent bombardment by asteroids in its nascent years.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalGeology·DateApr 28, 2016

First implantable hemodynamic monitoring device in single ventricle Fontan anatomy

A new device enables real-time monitoring of central venous and pulmonary artery pressures in patients with single ventricle Fontan anatomy, reducing the risk of heart failure. The first implantable hemodynamic monitor has been successfully placed in two patients, showing early safety and feasibility.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 28, 2016

Researchers find the genes that influence dizygotic twinning and fertility

A study by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam has identified two genetic variants that increase the chance of mothers having dizygotic twins. These variants are associated with fertility measures such as age of first menstruation and polycystic ovary syndrome, a major cause of infertility in women.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 28, 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.

Geochemical detectives use lab mimicry to look back in time

Researchers recreated high-pressure conditions to study iron isotope fractionation, shedding light on Earth's core composition and planetary history. The study identified potential light elements in the core, including oxygen, silicon, and sulfur, and provides a new understanding of the planet's geochemical evolution.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

A 'tropical' parasitic disease emerges in the Canadian Arctic

A team from McGill University Health Centre identified an outbreak of the intestinal parasite Cryptosporidium in Nunavik, Quebec. The strain was found to be Cryptosporidium hominis and had a significant impact on children under five years old, causing growth delays and difficulty at school.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 28, 2016

Influence of religion and predestination on evolution and scientific thinking

Biologist Dr Aldemaro Romero Jr explores how major religions have influenced evolutionists and their scientific thinking over the centuries. He challenges notions of predetermination and linearity in evolutionary theory by highlighting the importance of considering philosophical baggage in research conclusions.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·DateApr 28, 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.

Fiber optic biosensor-integrated microfluidic chip to detect glucose levels

Researchers in China created a portable and high-performance device to detect glucose levels using fiber optic biosensors integrated with microfluidic chips. The device can detect glucose concentrations as low as 1 nM, making it an appealing technology for early diagnosis of diabetes via monitoring glucose content within sweat.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateApr 28, 2016

Shape of tumor may affect whether cells can metastasize

A new University of Illinois study reveals that the shape of a tumor may play a significant role in determining whether cells can metastasize. The research found that curved edges and corners activate cancer stem cells, which are responsible for spreading cancer to other tissues.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 28, 2016

Narrow band imaging can reduce recurrence of bladder tumors

A clinical trial found narrow band imaging (NBI) significantly reduces bladder tumor recurrence in low-risk patients compared to conventional TURBT surgery. NBI detected small tumors that might be overlooked by white light cystoscopy, leading to a 5.6% recurrence rate versus 27.3% with traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEuropean Urology·DateApr 28, 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.

Junk-food junkies go healthy when rewarded

Researchers at Cornell University found that consumers who have poor eating habits benefit most from long-term reward incentives for healthy food choices. In contrast, healthy eaters are more likely to purchase less healthy items when offered price breaks.

SourceCornell University·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateApr 28, 2016

Subtle chemical changes in brain can alter sleep-wake cycle

Researchers found that altering the balance of ions in the fluid surrounding brain cells can stimulate or dampen nerve cell activity and cause brain cells to shrink while we sleep. This process facilitates waste removal and may lead to new ways to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

New technique spots active motion in cells

Researchers developed a noninvasive data analysis technique to distinguish between actively driven and thermally induced motions inside cells. The method, based on statistical physics, tracks particle transitions between states and identifies imbalances that indicate active processes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Insect outbreaks reduce wildfire severity

A University of Vermont-led study finds that insect outbreaks, such as mountain pine beetle and western spruce budworm infestations, significantly reduce wildfire severity. This contrasts with popular attitudes linking the two, and provides new insights for forest management and policy applications.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 28, 2016
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.

Brain cells divide the work to recognize bodies

Researchers from KU Leuven measured individual brain cell responses to animal and human body images, finding that each cell specializes in recognizing specific features. The findings suggest a collaborative process where different cells work together to recognize bodies.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2016

Peppermint tea can help improve your memory

A study by Northumbria University researchers found that peppermint tea significantly improved long-term memory and working memory, while chamomile tea slowed these functions. The study suggests beneficial effects of peppermint's enhancing and arousing properties on cognition.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·DateApr 28, 2016

Researchers demonstrate record optical nonlinearity

A team of researchers led by Robert W. Boyd has demonstrated up to 100 times greater nonlinearity in indium tin oxide than other known materials, revolutionizing photonics applications. This breakthrough opens the door for more careful study of the material's unique properties and potential applications.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2016

Augmented games can increase the diversity of sports

Researchers at Aalto University developed an augmented climbing wall, combining body tracking and custom software to empower users as content creators. The system offers diverse movements, challenges, and endless gaming experiences, increasing the sport's appeal to new audiences.

SourceAalto University·DateApr 28, 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.

Machines can learn to respond to new situations like human beings would

Researchers from KU Leuven have developed machines that can learn to tell the difference between familiar and unfamiliar objects, such as a blurred shape on the road. This technology has the potential to improve self-driving car safety by allowing machines to make more reasonable decisions in new situations.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 28, 2016

Rosacea linked to a slightly increased risk of dementia

A new study has found a link between rosacea and an increased risk of dementia, with the highest risks seen in older patients. The study published in Annals of Neurology suggests that treating rosacea may also modify patients' risk of developing dementia.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateApr 28, 2016