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Science News Archive February 2016 - Page 38


Page 38 of 39

New tool for gauging public opinion reveals skepticism of climate engineering

A new decision pathway survey has shed light on public concerns about climate engineering technologies. Most people find the risks of these technologies more likely than their benefits, with those concerned about climate change supporting geoengineering policies and investments in renewable resources. However, those least concerned are...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2016

New stem cell model valuable tool for studying Andersen's syndrome

Researchers successfully reprogrammed muscle cells from patients with Andersen's syndrome to create induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, which can serve as a model for understanding the cause of the rare disorder. The iPS cells demonstrated self-renewal and pluripotency capabilities without affecting the gene mutation known to cause AS.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateFeb 1, 2016

Lupus may contribute to pregnancy-related complications

A new study found that lupus during pregnancy is associated with higher rates of preeclampsia, hypothyroid disease, stroke, and infection among women. The study also reveals worse infant outcomes, including preterm birth, infection, and mortality.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 1, 2016

Shedding new light on breast cancer metastasis

Researchers found that clusters of cancer cells migrate through the body together throughout all stages of metastasis. The study identified unique molecular signatures and genetic changes in these aggressive tumor clumps, including higher expression of desmosome genes and lower expression of antigen presentation genes.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2016

Spin dynamics in an atomically thin semi-conductor

Researchers at the National University of Singapore and Yale-NUS College have established the mechanisms for spin motion in molybdenum disulfide. This discovery resolves a research question on electron spin properties in single layers of 2D materials, paving the way for next-generation spintronics devices with lower energy consumption.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 2016

Living a 'mixotrophic' lifestyle

Researchers at MIT and Bristol University found that mixotrophic organisms can increase the average size of plankton by up to 35%, leading to a greater flux of sinking organic carbon particles. This could enhance the ocean's ability to sequester carbon dioxide, potentially mitigating climate change.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2016

New in the Hastings Center Report: Next steps for epigenetics, big data and informed consent, whatever happened to human 'experimentation,' and more in the January-February 2016 issue

Recent epigenetics research highlights molecular mechanisms influencing gene expression through socioenvironmental factors. Big data raises concerns over immortalized participant data, privacy, and anonymity, prompting recommendations for strengthening ethical consent practices.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateFeb 1, 2016

Study finds significant cognitive impairment in adult survivors of childhood brain tumors

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that adult survivors of childhood brain tumors exhibit significant cognitive deficits in intelligence, educational achievement, and employment. The study also showed that hydrocephalus is associated with poor cognitive function, even decades after treatment.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 1, 2016

Lung health study published in top respiratory journal

A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that over 40% of Malawian adults have abnormal lung function, highlighting a major public health concern. The research also exposes the high burden of biomass smoke exposure in Malawi, contributing to respiratory diseases.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2016

Why do scientists chase unicorns?

A team of international scientists led by Maren Friesen from Michigan State University discovered a previously unknown bacteria that can fix its own nitrogen, a compound used in critical biological functions. The finding has significant implications for reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, making it a 'unicorn' worth chasing.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2016

A highway for spin waves

Researchers at HZDR have developed a method for controlling the propagation of spin waves in a targeted and simple way, creating a basis for nanocircuits that use spin waves. This approach uses magnetic domain walls and small external magnetic fields to manipulate the course of spin waves, enabling efficient information processing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 1, 2016

Lava flow crisis averted (for now)

The 2014-2015 Pahoa lava flow crisis at Kilauea Volcano posed significant societal impact despite low effusion rates, highlighting the need for effective communication and public education during volcanic events. The crisis provided valuable lessons about predicting and mitigating lava flow hazards.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGSA Today·DateFeb 1, 2016

New invention revolutionizes heat transport

Researchers at Aalto University have made a groundbreaking discovery in heat transport, enabling efficient cooling of quantum processors and paving the way for faster and more reliable quantum computing. The innovation uses photons to transfer heat over long distances, surpassing previous limitations.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 1, 2016