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Science News Archive March 2016 - Page 7


Page 7 of 41

Study finds metal foam handles heat better than steel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel light-weight composite metal foam that effectively insulates against high heat. The finding has significant implications for storing and transporting nuclear material, hazardous materials, explosives, and other heat-sensitive materials.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Thermal Sciences·DateMar 28, 2016

Heirloom dry beans suitable for small-scale organic production

A study by Hannah Swegarden and colleagues identifies four heirloom dry bean cultivars with high yield stability as ideal for local organic production in Minnesota. Heirloom varieties like 'Lina Sisco's Bird Egg' and 'Peregion' showed relatively high yields, making them a viable marketing option for small-scale producers.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 28, 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.

Oddball planet raises questions about origins of 'hot Jupiters'

Scientists have observed an exoplanet named HD 80606 b that orbits its star at incredible distances, experiencing scorching temperatures and then plummeting to extremely cold temperatures as it moves away. This unique system challenges existing theories on the formation of hot Jupiters and may require alternative explanations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 28, 2016

BIDMC researchers discover early indicators of pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have identified a 5-gene classifier that can accurately detect early stages of pancreatic cancer, offering hope for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The classifier achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates in training and validation datasets.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateMar 28, 2016

UT Dallas study: Driving curfews may curb teen crime

A new UT Dallas study found that teen driving curfews may prevent crimes. Arrests among teens ages 16-17 fell by as much as 6 percent in states with laws restricting nighttime driving hours, according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateMar 28, 2016

Scientific secrets for successful aging?

Scientists at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University identified 14 age-related compounds that decrease with age, including those related to muscle strength and antioxidants. These findings suggest the importance of consuming antioxidant-rich foods and exercising regularly after 65 to improve body conditions.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 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.

Stressed out: SLU scientist details cells' response to lesions

Cells have evolved several tactics to cope with DNA lesions and replication stress, including fork repriming, fork reversal, and replisome dynamics. Improper repair of DNA lesions can lead to mutations and genetic abnormalities.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 28, 2016

Enzyme may reduce risk of cardiovascular disease caused by HIV medications

Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have identified an enzyme that may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease caused by HIV medications. The enzyme, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), offers protection against endothelial cell dysfunction when used in conjunction with protease inhibitors.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateMar 28, 2016

Fralin researchers use new technology to sequence mosquito sex chromosome

Virginia Tech researchers have sequenced the Y chromosome of malaria-spreading mosquitoes, a key genetic driver of sex-determination and male fertility. The findings will help develop more effective mosquito control strategies by creating sterile males or reducing female populations.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 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.

Vascular brain injury is evident in people in their 40s

A study found that increased arterial stiffness in young adults is associated with reduced white matter volume and decreased gray matter integrity. This association suggests that vascular health can impact brain health from an early age.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateMar 28, 2016

Running out of money linked to fear of death

A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that fear of death is a significant factor in people's reluctance to invest in annuities during retirement. Researchers discovered that individuals who were asked about their own mortality were 50% less likely to choose an annuity compared to those not asked about their ...

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMar 28, 2016

Expectation may be essential to memory formation

Researchers propose expectancy-based binding theory, which suggests that subjects remember features without necessarily attaching them to the target object. This contradicts traditional theories of object-based and feature-based encoding., Attention alone is not enough for accurate memory recall, according to the study.

SourcePenn State·JournalCognition·DateMar 28, 2016

An ancient killer: Ancestral malarial organisms traced to age of dinosaurs

A new analysis suggests that malaria evolved in insects over 100 million years ago, with the first vertebrate hosts being reptiles and later dinosaurs. Understanding this ancient history may hold clues to interrupting malaria transmission through its most common vector, the Anopheles mosquito.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Entomologist·DateMar 28, 2016
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.

Wearable defibrillator may be an alternative to ICD for some patients

The American Heart Association recommends a wearable automatic defibrillator as an option for patients at risk of sudden cardiac death due to erratic heart rhythms. This device can provide a short-term alternative to an ICD and is especially suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateMar 28, 2016

Restoring the American chestnut

A recent study published in HortScience provides new recommendations to increase the stock of blight-resistant American chestnut trees. Genetic engineering is proposed as a solution, with the addition of one gene, oxalate oxidase, protecting the tree from the fungus. The study also examined optimized propagation protocols using activat...

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 28, 2016

Study: CEO personality traits play role in incentive pay, compensation

Research from the University of Texas at Dallas suggests that companies structure compensation contracts based on a manager's personality traits, not just firm characteristics. Overconfident CEOs receive more incentive-heavy compensation, which can drive shareholder value.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateMar 28, 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.

Survey gives clearer view of risky leaks from gas mains

A recent study by Boston University researchers found that almost a sixth of gas leaks in metropolitan Boston are potentially explosive and can pose significant safety risks. The study, published in Environmental Pollution, emphasizes the need for better detection methods to prioritize leak repairs.

SourceBoston University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMar 28, 2016

A world map of Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry in modern humans

A new study maps Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry in modern humans, revealing previously unknown interbreeding events, especially in South Asians and Oceania populations. The research suggests that Denisovan genes may be linked to a more subtle sense of smell and high-altitude adaptations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 28, 2016

Engineering black gold, as light as the bones of birds

A team of Korean researchers has successfully developed a way to fabricate an ultralight, high-density nanoporous gold material, known as Black Gold. This new material is twice as solid and 30% lighter than standard gold, with a wider surface area due to its unique nanostructure.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 28, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Impacts of salinity determined for agave

Researchers studied Agave species' response to saline soils and found two species, A. parryi and A. weberi, to be relatively tolerant to high levels of salinity. These findings suggest that cultivating these species in semiarid regions could increase production and address dwindling water reserves.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 28, 2016

Scientists find 'outlier' enzymes, potential new targets to treat diabetes, inflammation

Two unique enzymes, AIG1 and ADTRP, have been discovered that play a role in metabolism and inflammation, potentially targeting type 2 diabetes and inflammatory disorders. The enzymes are moderately inhibited by lipase inhibitors, suggesting they may be used to boost FAHFAs, which normalize glucose levels and reduce inflammation.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 28, 2016

Quantum effects at work in the world's smelliest superconductor

New research finds quantum behavior of hydrogen affects structural properties of hydrogen-rich compounds, which may aid in search for room temperature superconductor. Quantum symmetrisation of hydrogen bond has significant impact on vibrational and superconducting properties.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2016

Nature-inspired nanotubes that assemble themselves, with precision

Berkeley Lab scientists discover a family of nature-inspired polymers that spontaneously assemble into hollow crystalline nanotubes in water. The nanotubes have uniform diameters and can be tuned for specific functions, opening up new possibilities for filtration, desalination, and more.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2016
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.

Improved 'liquid biopsy' technique from Stanford enhances detection of tumor DNA in blood

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have devised a new approach to identify and sequence DNA from cancer cells circulating in the blood, increasing sensitivity by 15 times. The 'integrated digital error suppression' technique builds upon a method called CAPP-Seq, allowing for accurate identification of actionable muta...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 28, 2016

2016 Arctic sea ice wintertime extent hits another record low

Scientists at NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center report that Arctic sea ice extent reached a record low wintertime maximum in 2016, with the lowest extent since satellite records began in 1979. The warming ocean waters are likely to contribute to continued declines in Arctic sea ice cover.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 28, 2016

ACP policy paper recommends ways to stem the rising cost of prescription drugs

The American College of Physicians recommends various policies to stem the rising cost of prescription drugs, including transparency in pricing and comparative effectiveness research. The ACP also supports value-based decision-making and encourages competition through approaches like price negotiation by Medicare.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Cigarettes cheaper than e-cigarettes in 44 of 45 countries studied

A new American Cancer Society study found that combustible tobacco cigarettes cost less to purchase than equivalent amounts of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in 44 of 45 countries sampled. The price gap exists despite the fact that e-cigarettes are not yet widely subjected to comparable excise taxes as combustible cigarettes.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalTobacco Control·DateMar 28, 2016

The secret to a better shopping trip

Researchers found that shoppers who brought lists of familiar items relied on memory, while those with uncommon items benefited from walking through aisles to trigger memories. The study suggests bringing a list is key to successful shopping trips, regardless of item familiarity.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateMar 28, 2016

New drug combinations could significantly improve tuberculosis treatment

Researchers at UCLA and Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a new feedback system control technique to pinpoint the best possible drug-dose ratios for treating tuberculosis. This approach has identified promising combination treatments that can kill bacteria much faster than standard regimens, potentially shortening treatment ...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 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.

Breastfeeding, vaccinations help reduce ear infection rates in babies

A new study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston finds that higher rates of breastfeeding and vaccination significantly reduce the incidence of ear infections in babies. The study also suggests that lower smoking rates contribute to this decline.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 28, 2016

Uric acid, gout and kidney disease: The chicken or the egg?

A new thematic issue of The Open Urology & Nephrology Journal reports on the association between hyperuricemia and kidney disease. Chronic inflammation is a common link between the two conditions, with research exploring its role in uric acid excretion and progression of renal disease.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Urology & Nephrology Journal·DateMar 28, 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.

Citrus scion/rootstock combinations show tolerance to huanglongbing

Researchers found that certain mandarin hybrid/rootstock combinations display significantly greater growth and cropping under high huanglongbing pressure. These scion/rootstocks showed increased tolerance to the disease, which could lead to commercially viable fruit production.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMar 28, 2016

UCI scientists receive $8 million to help develop Q fever vaccine

A team of UCI scientists led by Philip Felgner has received $8 million to develop a new vaccine for Q fever, a highly infectious agent considered a potential bioterrorism weapon. The vaccine aims to mitigate severe side effects of the current vaccine and is expected to be safer and more effective.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMar 28, 2016

USC, JPL to launch fungi in journey to develop space meds

Researchers at USC and JPL are launching fungi into space to explore their potential as novel therapeutics for use both in space and on Earth. The study aims to discover new compounds that could be used to develop medicines for astronauts and potentially address life-threatening diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMar 28, 2016

Mount Sinai researchers assess accuracy of commercially available lab tests

Mount Sinai researchers found that testing service and time of collection significantly influenced results, with some test providers flagging more abnormal readings than others. The study highlights the importance of accurate lab test results in medical decision-making.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 28, 2016
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Structure of Parkinson's protein could lead to new diagnostic and treatment options

Chemists at the University of Illinois have identified the complex chemical structure of alpha-synuclein, a protein that forms long fibrils in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. This knowledge will help researchers identify specific targets for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMar 28, 2016

qPAINT counts biomolecules inside cells

qPAINT allows for accurate counting of biomolecules at specific locations within cells, extending the capabilities of DNA-PAINT and Exchange-PAINT techniques. The method utilizes transient interaction of short DNA strands to deduce molecular numbers with high precision.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Methods·DateMar 28, 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.

'Transient contractions' in urinary bladder may lead to therapeutic interventions for bladder dysfunction

Researchers have found that transient bladder contractions play a crucial role in sensing pressure and conveying information to sensory nerves. The frequency and rate of rise of these contractions may be fine-tuned by other cell types, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention in urinary bladder dysfunction.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateMar 28, 2016

Ocean temps predict US heat waves 50 days out, study finds

A new study led by Karen McKinnon at NCAR found that a distinct pattern of sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean can predict an increased chance of summertime heat waves in the eastern US up to 50 days in advance. The research used data from 1,613 weather stations and daily sea surface temperatures to define extreme heat events...

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 28, 2016

A view of the colorful microcosm within a proton

Researchers at RHIC detected a key effect of the color interaction, which binds quarks within protons, for the first time. This measurement tests theoretical concepts essential for mapping the proton's three-dimensional internal structure.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 2016

OU anthropologists reconstruct mitogenomes from prehistoric dental calculus

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma and Arizona State University demonstrate that dental calculus can be used to recover high-quality genetic information from ancient humans. The study uses advanced sequencing technologies to extract DNA from six individuals, providing new insights into Native American archaeology.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateMar 28, 2016

Study highlights importance of multimodal communication in higher ed

Research from North Carolina State University highlights the importance of multimodal communication in academic writing instruction. The study found that more than half of faculty members assigned multimodal communication work to their students and engaged in it themselves, with presentations and formal writing being common forms.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAcross the Disciplines·DateMar 28, 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.

A sensitive subject

Researchers at UCSB have cataloged patterns of vibration in the skin of the entire hand for the first time, enabling a greater understanding of how we sense the world through touch. These vibrations, which travel beyond the tips of the fingers, provide rich tactile information that helps us identify and navigate our surroundings.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalACM Transactions on Intelligent Systems and Technology·DateMar 28, 2016

How cancer stem cells thrive when oxygen is scarce

Researchers found that cancer stem cells multiply through the same mechanism used by embryonic stem cells, encouraged by low oxygen levels. The discovery could offer a path to targeting cancer stem cells and reducing their threat in human cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2016

New hope for a type 2 diabetes cure

A team of scientists has identified a possible use for the leukemia treatment drug Imatinib in treating type 2 diabetes. Gleevec was found to lower insulin resistance by controlling PPARγ, reducing the risk of hyperglycemia and obesity.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalDiabetes·DateMar 27, 2016