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Science News Archive May 2016


Page 1 of 38

Cancer studies should include overweight, elderly mice

Incorporating laboratory mice that are old and obese into immunotherapy treatments for cancer can hasten therapeutic breakthroughs. The use of young, healthy mice is often preferred, but this approach may not accurately reflect the human immune system's response to treatment.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalTrends in Immunology·DateMay 31, 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.

A jolt from the blue: Rays provide power for an electric generator

Researchers from RIKEN Quantitative Biology Center create a new type of electricity generator based on the electric organs of torpedoes, achieving peak voltages and currents comparable to conventional systems. The breakthrough could lead to a future high-efficiency power generator that uses ATP directly.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 31, 2016

Brain structure that tracks negative events backfires in depression

A UCL study found that the habenula, a region that responds to bad experiences, functions abnormally in people with depression. In healthy adults, this region activates when expecting aversive events, but in depressed individuals, it decreases activation. The study suggests the theory on the habenula's role in depression needs rethinking.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 31, 2016

Many patients continue using opioids months after joint replacement

A study of 574 patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery found that 30% were taking opioids prior to surgery, with 35% continuing to take them six months later. High-dose opioids and higher pain scores on the day of surgery were associated with persistent opioid use.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPain·DateMay 31, 2016

Study paves way for new therapies in fight against calcium disorders

Researchers at Georgia State University discover the molecular basis of human diseases resulting from CaSR mutations, potentially leading to new therapies for hypocalcemia and Alzheimer's disease. The study also identifies a small molecule as a lead compound for CaSR regulators.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 31, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Measuring the Milky Way: 1 massive problem, 1 new solution

PhD candidate Gwendolyn Eadie has developed a method to estimate the mass of the Milky Way using globular cluster velocities. This approach predicts the mass contained within any distance from the center of the galaxy, providing new insights into the dark matter component.

SourceMcMaster University·DateMay 31, 2016

Autism care improved, diagnosis time shortened by new MU program

A new MU program trains primary care providers to screen and manage autism spectrum disorders, improving confidence and utilization of resources. Early diagnosis is critical for children with autism, and the program aims to reduce disparities for rural and underserved children.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateMay 31, 2016

Antipsychotic prescribing trends in youths with autism and intellectual disability

A meta-analysis of 39 studies found that one in ten youths treated with an antipsychotic have autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability. The study suggests that more youths with autism or intellectual disability have received antipsychotics, raising concerns over their efficacy and potential side effects.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMay 31, 2016
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.

Calcium signals balance the body's response to infection against potential for self-attack

Researchers found that a specific type of calcium-based signal regulates the production of immune cells that drive and ramp down the body's massive reaction to invading organisms. The study suggests that fine-tuning calcium signals may enhance immune responses to influenza vaccines and treat chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·DateMay 31, 2016

A new 'Einstein ring' is discovered

Astronomers have discovered a new 'Canarias Einstein ring', a rare and unusual phenomenon that provides insight into the composition of distant galaxies. The discovery was made using data from the Gran Telescopio CANARIAS (GTC) and offers valuable information about the structure of gravitational fields and dark matter in galaxy lenses.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 31, 2016

It pays to increase energy consumption

Researchers at Aarhus University found that using 10% more energy for heating can save 10% on the bill while reducing carbon dioxide emission. They developed an intelligent management system to optimize building operations, predicting energy prices and environmental impact.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateMay 31, 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.

Implanted neuroprosthesis improves walking ability in stroke patient

A surgically implanted neuroprosthesis has led to substantial improvement in walking speed and distance for a patient with limited mobility after a stroke. The device stimulates coordinated activity of hip, knee, and ankle muscles, resulting in a more symmetrical and dynamic gait.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateMay 31, 2016

Sparrows with unfaithful 'wives' care less for their young

A new study reveals that male sparrows can distinguish between their faithful and unfaithful partners. When paired with an unfaithful female, males provide less food for their chicks. The research suggests that males make this decision based on the partner's behavior during fertile periods rather than detecting which chicks are theirs.

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe American Naturalist·DateMay 31, 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.

Algorithm could help detect and reduce power grid faults

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed an algorithm using Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) to quickly detect and locate power grid faults, providing a promising solution for authorities to remotely identify issues before they cause prolonged outages or equipment damage.

SourceBinghamton University·DateMay 31, 2016

New blood test for the detection of bovine TB

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a new blood test that detects Mycobacteria in blood with high sensitivity. The test delivers results within 48 hours and has been shown to detect the bacterium M. bovis in cattle diagnosed with bovine tuberculosis (bTB) with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalVirulence·DateMay 31, 2016

Female smokers more likely to kick the habit by 'timing' their quit date with their menstrual cycle

A study found that women who time their quit smoking with optimal days in their menstrual cycle may have better success. The researchers discovered that during the follicular phase, brain regions that help control behavior are less connected to those signaling reward, making it harder for women to resist smoking cues.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalBiology of Sex Differences·DateMay 31, 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.

Leaving the electrical grid in the Upper Peninsula

A new study by Michigan Tech engineers and sociologists reveals that leaving the electrical grid is a viable option for the majority of seasonal households (92%) and single-family owner-occupied households (65%). Solar-hybrid systems, combining solar power with cogeneration and battery storage, can overcome cloudy winter days. The stud...

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalEnergy Policy·DateMay 31, 2016

Readmissions after complex cancer operations vary with institution type and patient cohort

A new study found that readmission rates after complex cancer operations are higher in hospitals serving vulnerable populations, such as those with high Medicaid patients or serving as safety nets. The study suggests that payment penalties tied to readmissions may create unintended consequences on financially strained institutions.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 31, 2016

'Super Mario Brothers' is harder than NP-hard

Researchers show that Super Mario Brothers' level completion can be constructed to be PSPACE-hard, a class of problems considered even harder than NP. This suggests that completing a difficult level in Super Mario Brothers may require an exponential amount of time and computational effort.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMay 31, 2016
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.

Studying life on the rocks

A team of scientists has developed an apparatus to measure the behavior of ice under various external forces. The device can be used to study both terrestrial glaciers and icy satellite bodies, providing insights into potential life-supporting oceans beneath the ice.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMay 31, 2016

Bisexual college students most vulnerable to sexual assault

A new study published in Violence and Gender journal found that nearly 2 of every 5 bisexual female college students were victims of sexual assault. Greek life was identified as a strong factor linked to higher prevalence of sexual assault for most student groups.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalViolence and Gender·DateMay 31, 2016

New findings linking abnormalities in circadian rhythms to neurochemical to changes in specific neurotransmitters

Researchers at McLean Hospital discovered that individuals with bipolar disorder have altered somatostatin expression in the brain's amygdala, which regulates anxiety and stress response. This altered circadian function is linked to severity of depression and anxiety symptoms, providing potential neural correlates for circadian rhythm ...

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 31, 2016

Researchers create first 3-D mathematical model of uterine contractions

A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has developed the first 3D multiscale mathematical model of uterine contractions, which may aid in predicting preterm birth. The model precisely replicates the electrical activity in the uterus during a contraction using data from magnetomyography measurements.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 31, 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.

Does obesity lead to more nursing home admission and a lower quality of care?

A study examining obese older adults in nursing homes found that those with higher body mass indexes were more likely to be admitted to facilities with deficiencies in care. Nearly 22% of admitted residents were obese, with morbidly obese individuals facing even greater challenges.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 31, 2016

Leaky blood-brain barrier linked to Alzheimer's disease

A new study published in Radiology found increased blood-brain barrier permeability in people with early Alzheimer's disease. The researchers used contrast-enhanced MRI to identify leakages in the BBB, which could represent a key mechanism in the early stages of the disease.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMay 31, 2016

How long have I got? The response influences quality of end-of-life care

A study by University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work researchers examines the perceptions and preferences of older Latinos with advanced cancer regarding news on their diagnosis or prognosis. The investigation aims to identify culturally appropriate training for physicians and providers, promoting quality end-of-life care.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 31, 2016

Fiddler crabs' 'Morse code' attracts Mrs. Right

Male fiddler crabs produce female-luring vibrations in their burrows, serving as a type of 'Morse code' that females decipher to learn about suitors. The length and interval of pulses convey information on male characteristics, influencing female decision-making during mating.

SourceSpringer·DateMay 31, 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.

Mantis shrimp inspires next generation of ultra-strong materials

Researchers develop novel herringbone structure in dactyl club, enabling incredible damage to prey while resisting fracture. The unique structure is composed of crystalline calcium phosphate and chitin fibers, offering a new pathway to create ultra-strong composite materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 31, 2016

Researchers find what could be brain's trigger for binge behavior

A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins University has identified a key brain region involved in binge behavior, which could lead to the development of new treatments for addiction. By suppressing neurons in this area, rats were less motivated to engage in binge-like behavior when exposed to external triggers.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNeuron·DateMay 31, 2016

The mysterious sexual life of the most primitive dragonfly

Researchers observe thousands of Hemiphlebia mirabilis in Australia, revealing a unique mating system and high sperm competition mechanisms. The species displays elaborate abdominal flicking displays, suggesting an advanced courtship behavior.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateMay 31, 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.

'Baby talk' can help songbirds learn their tunes

Research by McGill University scientists found that juvenile zebra finches learned adult songs better when interacting with an adult, mimicking human-like speech adjustments. The study suggests social interaction can enhance vocal learning, which may have implications for treating autism and other developmental disorders.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 31, 2016

Tiny probe could produce big improvements in batteries and fuel cells

Scientists have developed a new nanoscale probe to study electrochemical properties, which could lead to significant improvements in battery and fuel cell performance. The device can measure local variations in material properties, allowing researchers to better understand how electrochemical systems work.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMay 31, 2016
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Attosecond physics: Attosecond camera for nanostructures

Physicists observe nanoscale light-matter phenomenon lasting only attoseconds, studying collective electron motions and near fields in gold nanoneedles. The development enables precise characterization of near-field vibrations, paving the way for complex studies of light-matter interactions in metals.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 31, 2016

2016 Gutenberg Teaching Award conferred on Nobel Prize winner Carl Wieman

Carl Wieman, a Nobel laureate in Physics, has received the 2016 Gutenberg Teaching Award for his exceptional contributions to the dissemination of knowledge and quality of academic teaching. The award recognizes his efforts to improve undergraduate science education through innovative approaches and tools.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateMay 31, 2016

Hunting for the brain's opioid addiction switch

New research by Dr. Steven Laviolette suggests that opiate-induced changes in brain circuits can be reversed, targeting dopamine signalling and protein adaptations to prevent or reverse addiction. The findings aim to inform approaches to addiction treatment and develop more effective pharmacological interventions.

SourceCanadian Association for Neuroscience·DateMay 31, 2016
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.

Wyss Institute to lead project to uncover underlying causes of tolerance to infection

The Wyss Institute aims to discover why some individuals tolerate infectious pathogens while others exhibit life-threatening responses, which could inform the development of novel therapies. The project will search for and identify examples of tolerance across several species through experiments with clinically-relevant pathogens.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·DateMay 31, 2016

Theft behind Planet 9 in our solar system

Astronomers at Lund University propose that Planet 9, a mysterious object in our solar system, may be an exoplanet captured by the sun. The study suggests that the sun stole the planet from its original star during a close encounter.

SourceLund University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMay 31, 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.

Can the environment help control disease in Asian aquaculture?

A consortium of researchers from the University of Southampton and other institutions is leading a project to calculate the role of physical pond conditions in controlling two devastating pathogens affecting Asian aquaculture. The team aims to develop new guidelines for disease management and novel intervention methods.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateMay 31, 2016

Tobacco smoke makes germs more resilient

Researchers found that tobacco smoke increases the likelihood of certain bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis colonizing the body. Biofilms formed by these pathogens can be difficult to eradicate and promote antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalTobacco Induced Diseases·DateMay 31, 2016
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.