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Science News Archive June 2016 - Page 16


Page 16 of 40

Invasive species could cause billions in damages to agriculture

The study analyzed 1,297 invasive insect pests on 124 countries, finding the US, China, India, and Brazil to be the highest potential cost impacters. Smaller developing countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately vulnerable due to their reliance on agriculture.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

UTSW study finds new enzyme with structure that could explain how heart can beat optimally

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a previously unrecognized enzyme, MLCK4, that could optimize contraction and prevent heart failure. The study provides the first three-dimensional structure for any member of the MLCK family and sheds light on the optimal phosphorylation level for normal heart function.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Robotic motion planning in real-time

A new computer processor designed specifically for robotic motion planning can plan movements up to 10,000 times faster than existing approaches while using significantly less power. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize robotics and automation in manufacturing environments.

Illuminating detection of deep cancers

A team of Tokyo Tech and UEC researchers developed a luciferin analog, AkaLumine-HCl, that produces near-infrared bioluminescence with improved tissue-penetration efficiency. This allows for highly sensitive deep-tissue imaging in animal experiments, including lung cancer models.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

New Baylor research identifies keys to managing innovators

A new study from Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business reveals that highly innovative individuals can be committed to both their organizations and professions, especially when they understand their role in the organization's success. The study suggests design policies and procedures that support creative work styles and empha...

SourceBaylor University·JournalResearch Policy·DateJun 20, 2016

Third to half of UK population lives with chronic pain

A recent analysis found that approximately 43% of the UK population, around 28 million adults, suffer from chronic pain. The prevalence is expected to rise as the population ages, with older individuals being more likely to experience long-term pain. Women are also more likely to be affected by chronic pain than men.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 20, 2016

RedEye could let your phone see 24-7

Researchers at Rice University developed RedEye, a technology that can provide computers with continuous vision, enabling wearables to see and remember what their owners need. By analyzing analog signals in real-time, RedEye improves energy efficiency and presents unique privacy advantages.

Shedding light on an assistant protein

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have developed a new fluorescence probe to visualize the motions of Hsp90, an essential chaperone that assists numerous proteins. The technique reveals synchronized structural changes within the protein, shedding light on its healing powers and potential connection to diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

How a cold gets into cells

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new method to analyze the process of RNA transfer from viruses into human cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs that prevent this precise RNA transfer.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016

Newer tests could cut hep C diagnosis steps in half

Researchers found that several commercially available tests for hepatitis C virus core antigen are highly sensitive and specific, potentially replacing the current two-test screening process with a single test. This could streamline care in low- and middle-income countries where HCV is prevalent, but patients are often lost to follow-up.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2016