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Science News Archive February 2016 - Page 8


Page 8 of 39

Unconventional treatment strategy controls -- rather than eradicates -- cancer

Researchers develop adaptive therapy that adjusts drug dose based on tumor response, controlling growth and allowing 60-80% of mice to be weaned off the drug. The treatment approach stabilizes tumors by maintaining a small population of drug-sensitive cells to suppress resistant cell growth.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2016

Study examines heart structure, function of NBA players

The study provides information that can be incorporated into clinical assessments for the prevention of cardiac emergencies in basketball players. The analysis reveals that left ventricular cavity sizes in NBA players are larger than in normal adults, but proportional to body size.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 24, 2016

Pulling water from thin air

Researchers develop new material to collect condensed water droplets using bio-inspired approach combining multiple natural systems. The material harnesses the power of desert beetles' bumps, cactus spines and slippery surfaces to facilitate condensation, promising applications in thermal power plants.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateFeb 24, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study suggests that longer-distance migratory birds may be smarter

A study published in Scientific Reports found that birds migrating greater distances have more new neurons in brain regions responsible for navigation and spatial orientation. The research team discovered a trend of increasing new neurons in line with migration distance, with different brain regions affected in two species.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 24, 2016

Pancreatic cancer is 4 diseases, each with new treatment possibilities

A new study reveals that pancreatic cancer is composed of four distinct subtypes, each with its own unique genetic profile and treatment possibilities. These findings have significant implications for diagnosis and treatment, potentially allowing for more accurate prognoses and targeted therapies.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature·DateFeb 24, 2016

Inability to avoid visual distractions linked to poor short-term memory

A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that differences in working memory capacity correlate with the brain's ability to actively ignore distraction. Individuals with low memory capacity are unable to suppress distractors, leading to attentional deficits.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 24, 2016

Omega-3 fatty acids may lower breast cancer risk in postmenopausal obese women

Researchers found that omega-3 supplementation reduced breast density in postmenopausal women with a body mass index above 29, bordering on obesity. The study suggests that DHA alone may be preferentially protective in these individuals, offering an example of personalized approach to breast cancer prevention.

SourcePenn State·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateFeb 24, 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.

Ocean acidification already slowing coral reef growth

Scientists have found that ocean acidification is already slowing coral reef growth, with the potential for widespread devastation if left unchecked. Researchers manipulated seawater chemistry in a natural ecosystem to determine the impact of excess CO2 on coral reefs.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateFeb 24, 2016

NASA contributes to global standard for navigation, studies of Earth

The International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) has been updated by NASA, enabling more detailed studies of global changes in Earth's ocean, ice sheets, land, and atmosphere. Four measurement techniques, including Satellite Laser Ranging and GNSS, contribute to the reference frame.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 24, 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.

New laser achieves wavelength long sought by laser developers

Researchers at the University of Bath created a new laser capable of pulsed and continuous mid-infrared emission between 3.1-3.2 microns, overcoming a major challenge in laser development. The achievement uses silica hollow-core fibers to confine light and gas, enabling efficient interaction and mid-IR emission.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateFeb 24, 2016

What makes penguin feathers ice-proof

Researchers found that Humboldt penguins' unique feather structure is anti-adhesive and hydrophobic, preventing ice from accumulating. The discovery led to the creation of a nanofiber membrane with similar properties, which could be used in applications like electrical insulation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateFeb 24, 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.

Study predicts salt marshes will persist despite rising seas

A new study suggests that traditional assessment methods overestimate the vulnerability of salt marshes to sea-level rise. Salt marshes can generally survive higher rates of sea-level rise than predicted by current models, thanks to their ability to grow vertically and migrate landward.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 24, 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.

The prolonged death of light from type Ia supernovae

Researchers have observed that three years after its explosion, the brightness of a type Ia supernova continues to shine brighter than expected. This finding suggests that the powerful explosions produce an abundance of heavy cobalt, which provides an extra energy boost.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateFeb 24, 2016

The Mesoamerican bean decoded

An Ibero-American team has sequenced the Mesoamerican common bean genome, which will aid in improving production and conserving genetic varieties. The discovery has significant implications for agriculture, as it will help identify genes involved in disease resistance, drought tolerance, and seed quality.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalGenome Biology·DateFeb 24, 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.

Solved! First distance to a 'fast radio burst'

A team of scientists has confirmed that a 'fast radio burst' originates in the distant universe, using CSIRO radio telescopes and the National Astronomical Observatory's Subaru telescope. The breakthrough allows researchers to weigh the normal matter in the universe, confirming the presence of missing ordinary matter.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature·DateFeb 24, 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.

A mathematical advance in describing waves

Mathematicians Gino Biondini and Dionyssios Mantzavinos develop a new mathematical model describing wave patterns with small irregularities. Their research shows that many disturbances evolve into single-class wave forms, answering a question scientists have been trying to answer for 50 years.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 24, 2016

Potatoes wild with calcium

Researchers found a wild potato with almost seven times as much calcium as usual varieties. Breeding programs can now use molecular markers to identify high-calcium traits, speeding up the breeding process. This discovery aims to improve crop quality and reduce cosmetic issues in potatoes.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 24, 2016

Evidence of early medieval Muslim graves found in France

Researchers from PLOS ONE discovered three skeletons buried in medieval graves in France that may have belonged to Muslims, with DNA analysis revealing paternal lineage from North Africa. The burials follow Islamic rites and radiocarbon dating suggests the skeletons are from the 7th-9th centuries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 24, 2016

Computers can tell if you're bored, shows new BSMS study

A new study from BSMS shows that computers can detect boredom by monitoring non-instrumental movements. The research has the potential to develop more engaging online tutoring programs and companion robots. By tracking subtle changes in body language, computers can adapt to a user's level of interest.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 24, 2016
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.

Too much salt could potentially contribute to liver damage

A high-salt diet has been found to contribute to liver damage in adult mice and embryonic chicks, with excessive sodium leading to cell death and decreased cell proliferation. Vitamin C treatment may partially counteract the negative effects of excess salt.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 24, 2016

Bacteria overgrowth could be major cause of stunting in children

Research suggests excessive bacterial growth in small intestine may be causing malnutrition and stunting in children living in low-income countries. A study of 103 2-year-old children in Bangladesh found that one in six showed signs of small intestine bacterial overgrowth, which was associated with gut inflammation and stunted growth.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalmBio·DateFeb 23, 2016

Food-based proteins discovered as key to child malnutrition in developing countries

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that African children with stunted growth had lower levels of essential amino acids and other protein markers compared to non-stunted children. This challenges the widespread assumption that children in developing countries are receiving adequate protein, highlighting the need for improved diets.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 23, 2016

More hands-on training for doctors required if policy changes

Research suggests that medical students benefit from more hands-on training and responsibility, and assessments of their clinical capabilities need improvement. The study recommends greater emphasis on undergraduate clinical placements and postgraduate supervision to enhance medical education.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 23, 2016

World's large river deltas continue to degrade from human activity

Researchers are racing to understand and mitigate the degradation of major river deltas worldwide, primarily caused by human activities such as damming, groundwater extraction, and agriculture. The study highlights that more than two-thirds of the world's 33 major deltas are sinking at an alarming rate.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateFeb 23, 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.

Shaping lumens by force

A team of scientists from Singapore and France has revealed the underlying mechanism for the formation and growth of epithelial tubes. They found that the shape and size of these tubes are governed by mechanical forces arising from cell interaction with the extracellular matrix, influencing lumen morphology and elongation direction.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 23, 2016

Everyday mindfulness linked to healthy glucose levels

A study of 399 participants found an association between higher mindfulness scores and healthier glucose levels. The researchers identified obesity risk and sense of control as potential mediators of this link, with mindful individuals being less likely to be obese and more likely to believe they can change their lives.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateFeb 23, 2016

It's great to have siblings, but they're also hard work

A study by Aarhus University explores what happens to sibling relationships when parents get divorced and find new partners. The research reveals that children have different experiences depending on whether they live in multiple homes or traditional families.

SourceAarhus University·DateFeb 23, 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.

New wheat genetic advancements aimed at yield enhancement

The study confirms 13,000 previously mapped SNPs and newly maps 2,190 unique SNPs to improve drought tolerance, greenbug and wheat curl mite resistance. The research aims to develop high-yielding wheat varieties with improved resilience to stressors across different climates.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 23, 2016

Children aren't active enough in winter, say Cambridge researchers

Researchers found that physical activity among children is lower in autumn and winter compared to spring and summer. The study highlights the need for increased active opportunities during the colder months to support children's health and development.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateFeb 23, 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.

New Nature Communications study says 'fear itself' can help restore ecosystems

A new study published in Nature Communications demonstrates that the fear of large carnivores can have cascading effects on the food chain and restore ecosystems. The researchers found that instilling fear in raccoons reduced their time spent feeding and reversed their impacts on their prey, leading to a healthier ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2016

Science achievement gaps begin by kindergarten

A study found that kindergarten general knowledge is the strongest predictor of first-grade and third-grade science achievement. Children's science achievement gaps persist from third to eighth grade, with low-income and minority students facing larger gaps.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateFeb 23, 2016

New therapeutic pathway may keep cancer cells turned 'off'

A new therapeutic pathway has been discovered to keep cancer cells dormant, offering hope for treating osteosarcoma and potentially other cancers. Researchers found three microRNAs that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, allowing them to remain asymptomatic and manageable.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 23, 2016

El Niño prolongs longest global coral bleaching event

The current global coral bleaching event, started in 2014, could extend into 2017 due to record ocean temperatures caused by El Niño. Corals are stressed when expelling symbiotic algae, leading to erosion and destruction of fish habitats.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateFeb 23, 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.

Described a powerful drug to advance in the fight against familial amyloidosis

Researchers have identified a powerful drug, SOM0226 (tolcapone), that can significantly improve the pharmacological treatment of familial transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR). Tolcapone has been shown to inhibit the aggregation of amyloid fibers by TTR and stabilize the protein structure, slowing down disease progression.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2016

New study shows emotional cost for parents who put on a happy face for their children

A recent study found that parents' attempts to regulate their emotional expressions can detract from their well-being and high-quality parent-child bonds. Parents reported feeling less authentic and experiencing lower emotional well-being when suppressing negative emotions and amplifying positive emotions during childcare. The study su...

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateFeb 23, 2016

Copper destroys MRSA at a touch

Researchers at the University of Southampton found that copper can destroy MRSA bacteria by damaging their DNA and respiration, making it difficult for them to survive. This discovery explains why touch surfaces made from solid antimicrobial copper are effective in reducing the spread of infections.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 23, 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.

Humans speeding up evolution by causing extinction of 'younger' species

Researchers at University of British Columbia found that human-induced introduction of new species can cause 'reverse speciation', where two similar species merge into one hybrid species. This shift has significant consequences for the ecosystem, altering ecological roles and impacting biodiversity.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 23, 2016