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Science News Archive June 2016


Page 2 of 40

Freddie H. Fu, MD, inducted into AOSSM Hall of Fame

Dr. Freddie H. Fu, MD, has been inducted into the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine's (AOSSM) Hall of Fame for his substantial contributions to the field of sports medicine. Dr. Fu is a renowned expert in anatomic ACL reconstruction and bioengineering of sports-related problems.

Scientist's math formula offers improved yield for flour milling

A new mathematical formula developed by Professor Grant Campbell could lead to increased yields of nutritious flour. By understanding the breakage characteristics of hard and soft wheats, plant breeders may be able to cross-breed new wheat strains with improved flour quality.

What does the sperm whale say?

Researchers discovered that sperm whales use distinct tapping sounds to convey individual messages, similar to Morse code, allowing them to identify themselves and coordinate actions. The most communicative whale accounted for 294 of the recorded codas, sparking interest in learning more about its unique behavior.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

The role played by solvents at extreme pressure

Researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum and Technische Universität Dortmund used infrared spectroscopy and computer simulations to analyze the behavior of TMAO at high pressure. They found that some bands shifted to higher frequencies, while individual peaks changed their form, indicating a change in molecular structure.

Gene mutation 'hotspots' linked to better breast cancer outcomes

Researchers have discovered a positive correlation between gene mutation 'hotspots' and better breast cancer outcomes, including lower tumor invasiveness and longer patient survival. These findings could inform prognosis and help identify patients who would best respond to immunotherapy and other treatments.

New research may help to develop effective pain killers

A team of FAU researchers has discovered a substance called capsazepine that activates the mustard oil receptor, leading to reduced inflammation and sensitivity in nociceptors. This breakthrough could lead to the development of highly effective painkillers for diseases such as joint arthrosis and chronic pancreatitis.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New technology helps ID aggressive early breast cancer

Researchers developed biomarker ratio imaging microscopy (BRIM) to differentiate between aggressive and non-aggressive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). The technique combines traditional pathology and mathematical analysis, identifying biomarkers that can indicate the potential for cancer to become invasive.

Antidiabetic effects discovered in the appetite hormone CART

Researchers found CART hormone increases insulin secretion and decreases glucagon production, a potential target for new type 2 diabetes drugs. CART is overexpressed in human type 2 diabetic islets, suggesting a link between glucose levels and hormone production.

Climate change's effect on Rocky Mountain plant is driven by sex

A UCI study reveals that climate change is altering the growth patterns of male and female Valeriana edulis over elevation in the Colorado Rockies. The shift in sex ratios allows female plants to successfully produce more seeds, while males become more common at higher elevations.

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.

New therapy treats autoimmune disease without harming normal immunity

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new therapy that selectively targets antibody-producing cells causing autoimmune disease, without harming the rest of the immune system. The treatment uses engineered T cells with an artificial receptor to bind to and destroy harmful B cells producing antibodies.

Jupiter on a bench

Researchers at Harvard University observed evidence of Jupiter's hydrogen transitioning into liquid metal, a key to the planet's powerful magnetic field. The findings could revolutionize rocketry and energy science, as well as our understanding of solar system origins.

Ocean circulation implicated in past abrupt climate changes

New evidence suggests that ocean circulation slowed during every one of the temperature plunges in the Northern Hemisphere during the last ice age, contributing to abrupt climate changes. This finding supports the view that changes in ocean circulation were responsible for causing these events.

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.

Does discrimination increase drinking?

Researchers at the University of Iowa have found a significant link between discrimination and heavy drinking among minority groups. The study, published in Social Science & Medicine, analyzed 97 peer-reviewed studies that showed a clear connection between racism, sexism, and homophobia and increased alcohol abuse.

Researchers discover first sleeper goby cavefish in Western Hemisphere

The Oaxaca Cave Sleeper is a new genus of cavefish discovered in Mexico, marking the first time such a species has been found in the Western Hemisphere. With only 13 individuals documented, this species highlights the vulnerability of cave-adapted fish due to habitat loss and environmental threats.

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.

The start of 'healing' for the Antarctic ozone hole?

A new study reports that the ozone hole over Antarctica is starting to 'heal' with a noticeable increase in ozone levels, following nearly three decades of depletion. The Montreal Protocol's phase-out of ozone-depleting substances has slowed the rate of decline and led to an identifiable ozone increase.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Artificial pancreas likely to be available by 2018

The artificial pancreas, a device monitoring blood glucose levels and automatically adjusting insulin doses, is nearing availability. Clinical trials have shown effective glucose control with reduced risk of hypoglycaemia, but challenges remain in addressing speed of action and cybersecurity concerns.

Saint Louis University to conduct Zika research

Researchers will study immune responses of 200 volunteers with diagnosed or symptomatic Zika, analyzing blood specimens to understand body's response. Understanding natural history and immune system could identify targets for treatments and vaccines.

Gene amplification -- the fast track to infection

Researchers discovered that bacteria can amplify disease-inducing genes to quickly cause infection. The study found that the essential proteins needed to form the poisonous syringe are produced through a 'copying machine' when the bacteria come into contact with host cells, enabling rapid infection.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Air pollution linked to increased rates of kidney disease

A study found that regions in China with high levels of fine particulate air pollution have elevated rates of membranous nephropathy, an immune disorder of the kidneys. The likelihood of developing membranous nephropathy increased by 13% annually over 11 years.

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.

New insight into the most common genetic cause of ALS and FTD

Scientists from the University of Sheffield have discovered a novel function of the C9orf72 protein, which is linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The study found that the C9orf72 protein regulates the initiation of autophagy, a vital process for nerve cell survival.

Scientists discover maleness gene in malaria mosquitoes

Researchers isolated Yob, a gene that determines male sex in African malaria mosquito species, and found it has detrimental effects on females. The discovery may lead to genetic control methods for malaria control, offering an alternative to insecticides.

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.

Falls in months before surgery are common in adults of all ages

A large study of 15,000 adults found that falling up to six months before surgery is common and linked to lower quality of life and increased risk of injury. The frequency of falls among middle-aged patients was similar to those aged 65+, suggesting that a history of falls may be a powerful tool in assessing overall health.

Researchers identify calorie-burning pathway in fat cells

Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have identified a natural molecular pathway that enables brown and beige fat cells to burn calories as heat rather than store them as fat. The discovery raises the possibility of a new approach to treating obesity, diabetes, and other related metabolic disorders.

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.

How will genomics enter day-to-day medicine?

National experts recommend steps to integrate genomics into clinical practice, addressing challenges such as interpreting DNA findings, patient education, and sharing data across centers. The recommendations provide guidance for clinicians and patients on how to use genomic testing results in making health care decisions.

Natural metabolite can suppress inflammation

Scientists discovered that itaconate, a natural substance produced by macrophages, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It reduces the activity of immune cells and may be used to treat pathologies caused by excessive inflammation or oxidative stress.

Study finds new tool to measure homeland security risks

Researchers have developed a new risk assessment tool to aid in strategic planning for security, focusing on natural disasters, terrorist events, and major accidents. The Deliberative Method for Ranking Risk has been tested on 26 individuals and found that pandemic influenza, hurricanes, and earthquakes prompt the highest concerns.

The RNA that snips and stitches RNA

A recent SISSA/CNR-IOM study reconstructed the cleavage process for group II introns using computer simulations, shedding light on the human spliceosome's complex mechanism. The research provides valuable information for fighting diseases related to aberrant splicing, such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

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.

A bewildering form of dune on Mars

Researchers have discovered 'wind-drag ripples' on Mars, which are similar to underwater ripples in shape and spacing. These unique formations provide a way to measure global changes in the planet's atmospheric density over time.

Quantum technologies to revolutionize 21st century

The second quantum revolution harnesses entanglement to enable new applications like quantum communications, metrology and computing. Quantum processors will advance simulations and universal calculations, transforming science and economics.

Erasing unpleasant memories with a genetic switch

Scientists have successfully erased unpleasant memories in mice by switching off a single gene. The study reveals that deactivating neuroplastin, a key player in brain plasticity, impairs learning and memory processes. This breakthrough has potential implications for treating memory disorders such as dementia and schizophrenia.

WSU researchers develop shape-changing 'smart' material

Researchers at WSU have developed a multifunctional smart material with shape memory behavior, light-activated movement, and self-healing properties. The material can fold, unfold, remember its shape, and heal itself in response to heat or light.

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.

Creating a sustainable 'circular economy' could be complex but rewarding

The article explores the concept of a circular economy, which aims to reduce pollution and waste by recycling resources instead of discarding them. Companies are implementing new manufacturing processes that use safer substances, and the European Union is grappling with regulation of chemicals in a closed-loop recycling system.

Crucial peatlands carbon-sink vulnerable to rising sea levels

Researchers at the University of Exeter found that peatland ecosystems' ability to absorb and store carbon is threatened by rising sea levels due to increased salt concentrations. The study highlights the vulnerability of blanket bogs in Northwest Scotland to sea-level rise, which could lead to a sharp decline in carbon storage.

Rate of decline of cardiovascular deaths slows in US

Recent national trends in US death rates show a deceleration of decline in cardiovascular deaths, with heart disease mortality rates slowing down between 2000-2014. Cancer mortality rates remained relatively stable during this period.

UC Riverside anthropologist awarded NSF grant to excavate Maya households

Researchers will study household sites in Coba and Yaxuna ruins to understand social interactions between residents of two ancient cities linked by a massive roadway during the Late Classic period (600-900 A.D.). The project aims to determine how life changed for tens of thousands of people living along the causeway.

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.

Portable test rapidly detects Zika in saliva for $2

A new portable test has been developed to detect the Zika virus in saliva for just $2, making it a promising tool for managing outbreaks. The test can accurately detect low levels of the virus and distinguish it from similar viruses like dengue.