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Science News Archive August 2016 - Page 28


Page 28 of 38

How do the bugs in your gut affect neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases?

The gut microbiome plays a complex role in cognitive and psychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Researchers are exploring synthetic biology to develop engineered bacteria that can remodel the gut microbiota and treat these conditions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBioResearch Open Access·DateAug 9, 2016

Neutrinos, ever bizarre, enjoy the spotlight

Recent neutrino discoveries by T2K and NOvA experiments at Colorado State University provide evidence of oscillations between neutrinos and antineutrinos, violating a longstanding physics principle. The findings hint at the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance and offer opportunities to study the weak nuclear force.

SourceColorado State University·DateAug 9, 2016

Bleed like hell

Researchers found that platelets must undergo a process called mitochondrial necrosis, where they release calcium and reactive oxygen species, causing the cell to collapse. This programmed death allows platelets to transition into super-activated states, which accelerate blood clotting.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalJournal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis·DateAug 9, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers have developed a new class of artificial proteins

A team of Danish researchers has developed a new method for creating artificial proteins by combining oligonucleotides and peptides. This breakthrough could lead to better treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes, as well as improved control over protein properties.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 9, 2016

Study highlights serious security threat to many internet users

A weakness in Linux operating systems allows attackers to track users' online activity, terminate connections, and inject false material into their communications. Researchers identified the vulnerability and have alerted Linux about it, resulting in patches applied to the latest Linux version.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 9, 2016

Reduced activity of an important enzyme identified among suicidal patients

Research identifies ACMSD enzyme as key player in regulating inflammation and its byproducts, which may contribute to depression and suicidal tendencies. The study found reduced activity of the enzyme in patients who have attempted suicide, suggesting a potential biomarker for identifying individuals at risk.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateAug 9, 2016

Scientists count microscopic particles without microscope

Scientists from Russia and Australia have developed a simple new way to count microscopic particles in optical materials using laser diffraction. This method allows for the structure and shape of any optical material to be determined without expensive electron or atomic-force microscopy.

SourceITMO University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 9, 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.

System helps protect privacy in genomic databases

Researchers from MIT and Indiana University developed a new system to protect genomic database privacy through differential privacy. The system adds noise to query results, making it difficult for attackers to extract private information.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Systems·DateAug 9, 2016

Psychologist's magic makes a non-existent object disappear

Experimental psychologists at Oxford University found that 32% of people were convinced they saw an object disappear, even though none was shown. The study suggests people confuse expectations with sensory experiences, leading to misperception.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateAug 9, 2016

Heat release of later-age concrete and the concrete strength development

Researchers investigate relationship between hydration heat and concrete strength, establishing a preliminary hydration heat model to predict heat release in later-age concrete. The study finds that increasing concrete strength reduces hydration heat, improving pipe cooling effects and controlling temperature peaks.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Construction and Building Technology Journal·DateAug 9, 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.

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.

UH researchers are pioneering tools for heart regeneration

A team of University of Houston researchers has identified novel regulators of heart formation, including microRNAs, which can convert human fibroblasts into heart muscles. These findings hold promise for treating human heart attack and subsequent heart failure within the next five to 10 years.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2016

HIV is not a super-spreader of drug-resistant tuberculosis

A study published in eLife found no significant difference in the rate of mutations leading to drug resistance between HIV-positive and negative TB patients. HIV co-infection accelerates the development of active TB but does not increase the evolution of multidrug-resistant strains.

SourceeLife·DateAug 9, 2016

NASA spots Tropical Storm Conson facing wind shear

Tropical Storm Conson is facing strong southwesterly wind shear, pushing clouds and showers to the northeast of its center. The storm is expected to intensify into a typhoon over open waters on August 12 before weakening commences.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 9, 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.

Outdated assessment of treatment response makes good cancer drugs look bad

A new approach using metabolic imaging could help determine a patient's response to targeted therapies much earlier and with greater precision than traditional tumor shrinkage. This method recognizes a drug's ability to stop cancer cells' energy overuse, allowing for more accurate assessments of treatment success.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·DateAug 9, 2016

Financial worries linked to mental health issues among university students

Research from the University of Southampton found that financial difficulties worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression among university students. The study suggests a 'vicious cycle' where financial struggles exacerbate mental health issues, which in turn increase financial stress.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCommunity Mental Health Journal·DateAug 9, 2016

Study: Some black teens may feel pulled between health and hair

African-American adolescent girls prefer straightened hair and avoid sweating during exercise due to concerns about ruining their hairstyle. The study explores the impact of cultural pressure on physical activity among black teens, finding a consistent theme across three states.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalBMC Obesity·DateAug 9, 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.

Researchers ID key drivers of heart complications in sickle cell anemia

A study published by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveals the molecular pathways responsible for heart anomalies in sickle cell anemia. The research opens a path to non-invasive diagnosis and development of new targeted therapies, aiming to improve quality of life and reduce mortality among SCA patients.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 9, 2016

Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security

Stowaway frogs being stopped by border security reduces the risk of introduction of new diseases by up to 50%. Biosecurity measures are crucial in preventing the spread of emerging diseases that have devastated native frog populations worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateAug 9, 2016

Boron carrier for targeted tumor therapy

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology created a boron carrier system that uses albumin to target tumors, improving the delivery of boron in cancer treatment. The new system was tested on mice and showed promising results, with high concentrations of boron in tumors and low levels in healthy cells.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateAug 9, 2016

New Piltdown hoax analysis points to work of 'lone forger'

A multi-disciplinary team analyzed the Piltdown specimens using DNA and 3D X-ray imaging, revealing that an orang-utan specimen was used to create the fakes. The forgeries were created using a consistent method, suggesting the perpetrator acted alone, with some researchers now accusing Charles Dawson of being the 'lone forger'.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 9, 2016

Cascade of events leading to prion disease described

Researchers describe distinct stages of prion disease in the mouse retina and define a model to test therapeutic approaches. They found that misfolded prion protein accumulation and inflammatory responses occur at specific time points, allowing for potential therapy evaluation.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateAug 9, 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.

'Game on for Pokémon Go,' says The BMJ pundit

Pokémon Go has been linked to increased physical activity and social connections, with players walking longer distances and interacting with strangers in public spaces. However, the game also carries risks, such as accidents and thefts, that have sparked concerns about its impact on mental health.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateAug 9, 2016

Researchers flag hundreds of new genes that could contribute to autism

A recent study by Princeton University and Simons Foundation researchers has identified over 2,500 candidate genes that may contribute to autism spectrum disorder. The machine-learning program analyzed the human genome to predict which genes are at risk of causing the condition.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 8, 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.

Two classes of medications linked to similar results in peritoneal dialysis patients

A new study found that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin-II receptor blockers (ARB) have similar results in reducing cardiovascular events in patients on peritoneal dialysis. The researchers surveyed records of Medicare Part D patients and found no significant difference between the two medication classes.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJournal of Nephrology·DateAug 8, 2016

Self-cleaning, anti-reflective, microorganism-resistant coatings

Researchers create functional coatings with microorganism-resistance, self-cleaning and anti-reflecting properties. The new materials have potential for various applications, including seagoing vessels, mobile phone screens and spectacle lenses.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalProgress in Organic Coatings·DateAug 8, 2016

Prototype chip could help make quantum computing practical

Researchers from MIT and Lincoln Laboratory have developed a prototype chip that can trap ions in an electric field with built-in optics, enabling the miniaturization of qubit technology. This breakthrough could lead to practical quantum computers by scaling up trapped-ion quantum information processing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 8, 2016

Seasonal allergies could change your brain

Research published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience found that seasonal allergies can lead to increased neuron production in the hippocampus, a region responsible for forming new memories. This discovery raises questions about the long-term consequences of allergies on brain development and function.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateAug 8, 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.

Dormant copies of HIV mostly defective, new study shows

A new study published in Nature Medicine found that over 90% of latent HIV 'provirus' genomes are genetic duds, unable to replicate and cause disease. This challenges the current methods for measuring the size of the reservoir, highlighting a need for more accurate counting methods.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Maternal high-fat diet during pregnancy can affect baby's gut microbes

Researchers found that babies born to mothers on high-fat diets had distinct gut microbiomes with fewer Bacteroides microbes, affecting energy extraction and immune system development. The study suggests a potential link between maternal diet and infant microbiome, emphasizing the importance of considering fat intake in prenatal care.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalGenome Medicine·DateAug 8, 2016

Towards a better screen

Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences developed a large-scale screening process to identify new OLED materials. The team discovered a large set of high-performing blue OLED materials using machine learning and cheminformatics, which could improve the efficiency and stability of OLED displays.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 8, 2016

Study suggests tiger sharks opt for scavenging on dead and dying sea turtles as a feeding strategy

Researchers found that tiger sharks prefer to scavenge on dead and dying green turtles, avoiding hundreds of healthy individuals. This behavior is similar to terrestrial carnivores, such as hyenas and polar bears, which selectively scavenge when the opportunity arises.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateAug 8, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Targeting brain cells to alleviate neuropathic pain

Researchers discovered that microglia brain immune cells play a major role in the initiation and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Targeting these cells within a few days after nerve injury can greatly reduce chronic pain in animals. This breakthrough could lead to more effective painkillers with fewer side effects.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2016

Ancient DNA evidence traces origin of horses' smooth ride

Researchers discovered that ambling horses first appeared in Medieval England, where they were bred by Vikings and later distributed globally. The genetic study found a specific variant of the DMRT3 gene associated with gaitedness in ancient horse remains.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 8, 2016

Contamination from marine mammals may hamper recovery of California condors

Researchers found high levels of pesticides and contaminants in California condors near the coast compared to inland birds. The study suggests that feeding on marine mammal carcasses could complicate condor recovery due to potential harm from toxic substances.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 8, 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.

IceCube search for the 'sterile neutrino' draws a blank

Researchers from IceCube Neutrino Observatory find no evidence of sterile neutrino in two independent analyses of data, suggesting the hypothesized particle may not be real. This discovery could help resolve puzzles related to dark matter and neutrino mass.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2016

Compound shows promise as next-generation prostate cancer therapy

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center report a novel compound, tetraaryl cyclobutane (CB), that blocks testosterone from fueling prostate tumor growth in mice. The compound has a unique mechanism of action and may be effective against prostate tumors resistant to current anti-androgen drugs.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 8, 2016

Nature, not nurture, defines cricket social networks

Researchers found that cricket populations have innate social rules, resulting in stable networks that form year after year. The study, published in BMC Evolutionary Biology, suggests that these networks are conserved over evolutionary time, influenced more by population size than environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateAug 8, 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.

Study identifies new pathways involved in development of insulin resistance

A study led by Daniel Kelly identified MondoA as a regulator of key pathways controlling glucose uptake and fat accumulation in muscle cells. Deactivation of MondoA resulted in enhanced glucose uptake and insulin signaling in mice, indicating potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating obesity-related insulin resistance.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 8, 2016

New drug class gives hope for better treatments for incurable myeloma

Australian researchers have discovered a new class of anti-cancer agents targeting MCL-1, which may be effective in treating multiple myeloma. The majority of myelomas rely on MCL-1 to stay alive, and inhibiting it has shown potential as a treatment approach for the majority of patients.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalBlood·DateAug 8, 2016

Okinawa mozuku: The treasure under the sea

Scientists have successfully decoded the DNA of Okinawa mozuku, a valuable seaweed species with unique properties. The study provides a platform for future research on its cultivation, growth, and health benefits, aiming to restore production levels and promote sustainable farming practices.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalDNA Research·DateAug 8, 2016

Pesticides used to help bees may actually harm them

A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that pesticides applied to hives to control Varroa mites can damage the gut microbiome of honeybees, impacting their ability to metabolize sugars and peptides. The research suggests that these chemicals can specifically harm the microbes crucial for honey bee nutrition and health.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 8, 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.

Latin-American, Caribbean health systems need more investment as populations age

The study found that despite progress toward universal coverage, citizens still reported gaps in primary care organization, financing, and delivery in six Latin American and Caribbean countries. People with better experiences at the primary care level were less likely to say their health system needed major reforms.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 8, 2016

Winners announced for the BMC Ecology Image Competition 2016

The BMC Ecology Image Competition 2016 featured a diverse range of images showcasing biodiversity, natural beauty, and biological interactions. Davide Gaglio's silhouette of antelope grazing against the sunrise in the Kalahari Desert won the top prize.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateAug 8, 2016