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Science News Archive April 2016 - Page 37


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.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 4, 2016

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

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

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
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 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

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
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

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
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.

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateApr 3, 2016

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.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateApr 3, 2016

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.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2016

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.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 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.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

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.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateApr 3, 2016

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%.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalJAMA·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.

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.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateApr 3, 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.

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.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·DateApr 2, 2016