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Science News for June 3, 2016


Squeezing out opal-like colors by the mile

Researchers develop Bend-Induced-Oscillatory-Shearing (BIOS) process to produce hundreds of meters of polymer opals on a roll-to-roll process, exhibiting chameleon-like color-shifting properties. The material has potential applications in smart clothing, building coatings, and banknote security.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2016

Skyrmions à la carte

Researchers at Kiel University and Forschungszentrum Jülich have predicted that skyrmions can be produced for applications at room temperature with specifically adjusted magnetic layer structures. This enables the potential for high-density, energy-saving data storage and processing.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2016

Males were saved by agriculture

Research found that agriculture led to rapid male population expansion in Neolithic Time, with a 10- to 100-fold increase in population size. This growth occurred after the advent of agriculture, suggesting that it was a driving force behind the initial male population expansion.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateJun 3, 2016

Anti-DNA antibody prefers damaged dsDNA over native

Researchers found that anti-DNA antibodies preferentially bind to damaged double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) over native DNA, contributing to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This study provides mechanistic insight into the formation and properties of pathogenic anti-DNA antibodies.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalJournal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics·DateJun 3, 2016

Technique could help climate models sweat the small stuff

A team of physicists and mathematicians has developed a statistical technique to simulate small-scale phenomena in computer simulations, allowing for more accurate predictions. The method, published in Physical Review Letters, can capture the influence of cloud formation and reduce uncertainty in climate models.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 3, 2016

Study of first procedure-free gastric balloon shows they are safe and lead to similar weight loss as other balloon procedures

A new study presented at the European Obesity Summit found that a procedure-free gastric balloon, called Elipse, is safe and leads to similar weight loss as other balloon procedures. The device, swallowed and excreted over 4 months, resulted in significant weight loss, improvements in blood sugar control, and quality of life.

Liquid by-products from wood and forest industry find use in wood-plastic composites

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland developed a novel method to add liquid by-products to wood-plastic composites, enhancing their properties. The study also employed PTR-MS to measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from WPCs, revealing improvements in water absorption and mechanical properties.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials·DateJun 3, 2016

Repairing chronic wounds

Researchers at University of Delaware develop new biomaterials platform to stimulate growth factor expression and enhance chronic wound repair. The approach aims to provide a more efficient and localized production of growth factors, promoting full wound closure.