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Science News Archive May 2016 - Page 14


Page 14 of 38

Healthy intestinal flora keeps the mind sharp -- with some help from the immune system

A recent study by Dr. Susanne Wolf found that white blood cells act as an intermediary between the gut microbiome and the brain, playing a crucial role in neurogenesis and memory function. The research suggests that antibiotics may disrupt this communication pathway, leading to impaired neurogenesis and memory deterioration.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 19, 2016

How is rattlesnake venom like fine wine? Both have regional varieties

A new study from Ohio State University reveals rattlesnake venom's regional variations effectively counter squirrel defenses, indicating co-evolutionary adaptation. The research found significant variation in venom activity and resistance across populations, with snakes best suited to their local opponents.

SourceOhio State University·DateMay 19, 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.

How plants conquered the land

Researchers at the University of Leeds discovered a key gene, ANR, that enabled plants to tolerate extreme dehydration, allowing them to colonize land around 500 million years ago. The gene is unique to basal land plants and plays a crucial role in responding to stress hormones like ABA.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMay 19, 2016

Plant cell wall development revealed in space and time for the first time

Researchers mapped changes in plant cell wall composition over space and time using Arabidopsis as a model organism, revealing key roles in plant developmental pathways. The study identifies essential genes involved in cellulose production and suggests selective breeding to enhance plant properties.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 19, 2016

A global early warning system for infectious diseases

A global early warning system for infectious diseases is proposed to use computer models to forecast disease risk and inform targeted responses. This system could shift the paradigm from reactive to pre-emptive management of risk, minimizing damages and improving global health security.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalEMBO Reports·DateMay 19, 2016

Special issue: Urban Planet

Cities around the world are exploring innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint, from solar panels on buildings to optimized transportation systems. Researchers propose various strategies to improve water management, food supply chains, and air quality in urban areas.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 19, 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.

Electronic device detects molecules linked to cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Researchers have developed a single-layer organic nanometer-scale transistor that can detect molecules associated with neurodegenerative diseases and some types of cancer. The device uses glutathione and glutathione S-transferase to identify target molecules, offering sensitivity and potential for rapid diagnosis.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalOrganic Electronics·DateMay 19, 2016

Identification of a chemotherapy resistance factor in breast cancer patients

A research team identified low expression of methylation-controlled J protein (MCJ) as a marker of poor response to chemotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer patients. They found that MCJ-expressing tumors had reduced relapse-free survival and that mice deficient in MCJ had larger tumors and increased chemoresistance.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateMay 19, 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.

Penn Vet research suggests a way to identify animals at risk of blood clots

Researchers at Penn Vet found that a common blood test may also indicate hypercoagulability in animals. A study of hundreds of dogs found that shortened prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were associated with clinical signs of hypercoagulability, including clots and suspected pulmonary thromboembolism.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateMay 19, 2016

An app knows if a beer has gone stale

A team of chemists from the Complutense University of Madrid has developed a simple and low-cost method to measure beer freshness using a polymer sensor and a smartphone app. The results show that the new system is comparable to more sophisticated methods, such as gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateMay 19, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

'Sunscreen' gene may help protect against skin cancer

Researchers found that a tumor suppressor gene helps repair UV damage in cells, reducing the risk of skin cancers like melanoma. The study suggests this gene may serve as a biomarker for skin cancer prevention and offers hope for new drug targets.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 19, 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.

How did cardinals get those bright red feathers?

Researchers found a gene called CYP2J19 that converts yellow carotenoids into red ones in the skin and feathers of red birds. The study suggests that for a bird to grow red feathers, it needs not just the redness gene but also a special form of the gene involved in feather growth.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 19, 2016

Zika virus protein could be vaccine target

Researchers identified Zika virus protein NS5 as a promising target for vaccines, inhibiting human interferon responses by blocking STAT2 protein. The study found altered or removed NS5 could trigger the human immune system to attack the virus, making it a potential vaccine candidate.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 19, 2016

Children injured in motor vehicle crashes fare better at level I pediatric trauma centers

A new study by Children's Minnesota found that children treated at Level I pediatric trauma centers have lower risks of complications and adolescents face greater odds of death compared to adult trauma centers. Pediatric trauma centers provide conservative care approaches, leading to better outcomes for injured children.

SourceChildren's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota·JournalJournal of Pediatric Surgery·DateMay 19, 2016

Switch and stick

Researchers at Max-Planck-Institute for Intelligent Systems have discovered a new reversible adhesive using gallium that can be controlled by temperature changes. The adhesive has potential applications in various fields such as biological samples handling and industrial pick-and-place processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 19, 2016

36,000 children already tested for early type 1 diabetes

The Fr1da study has detected an early stage of type 1 diabetes in 105 out of 26,760 children aged two to five years. The children have not shown signs of metabolic imbalance, suggesting a potential breakthrough in preventive healthcare. Families are being offered comprehensive support and care.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalBMJ Open·DateMay 19, 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.

Tropical Cyclone 01B named Roanu and is strengthening

Roanu is intensifying with defined eye and broad storm surge potential, threatening widespread flooding in Bangladesh. The cyclone has already caused massive landslides and flooding in Sri Lanka and could reach hurricane strength, posing a significant threat to the region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 19, 2016

NIH study confirms benefits of intensive blood pressure management among seniors aged 75 and older

A new analysis of the SPRINT study confirms that adults aged 75 and older with high blood pressure benefit from a systolic blood pressure goal of less than 120 mm Hg, reducing cardiovascular events by 33% and death risk by 32%. The findings suggest a more aggressive blood pressure intervention may be beneficial for this age group.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateMay 19, 2016

Making injectable medicine safer

University at Buffalo researchers have created a method to strip away excess surfactants from common injectable drugs, potentially making them safer and more effective for millions. The breakthrough removes potentially harmful additives, improving the formulation of anti-cancer medicine, testosterone, and other drugs.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 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.

Ancient tsunami evidence on Mars reveals life potential

Scientists found evidence of two mega-tsunamis on Mars, triggered by meteorite impacts, which formed cold salty oceans conducive to sustaining life. The research reveals ancient ocean characteristics, including icy lobes with briny waters, providing a potential refuge for life in extreme environments.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 19, 2016

Why humans (and not mice) are susceptible to Zika

Researchers have identified a key protein in Zika virus that blocks the action of interferons in human cells, making humans more susceptible to infection. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic approaches and vaccine development by blocking the activity of this protein.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMay 19, 2016

Scientists getting warmer on mimicking anti-freeze in nature

Researchers from the University of Leeds have discovered a way to prevent ice crystals from forming in water as it is cooled to -35°C using glycerol. This breakthrough has important implications for improving cryoprotectants used in fertility treatments and food storage.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateMay 19, 2016

A slick way to test artificial knees and hips

Researchers discovered that albumin and globulin proteins improve the tribology of artificial joint implants, suggesting a potential solution to reduce wear and tear. The findings have implications for extending the lifespan of prosthetic joints and improving patient quality of life.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Surface Science and Engineering·DateMay 19, 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.

Fighting cancer with the help of someone else's immune cells

Researchers developed a new approach to cancer immunotherapy by using donated immune cells to recognize and target cancer cells. The study found that adding mutated DNA from cancer cells into immune-stimulating cells from healthy donors can trigger an immune response in healthy cells, which can then be used to attack cancer cells.

SourceNetherlands Cancer Institute·JournalScience·DateMay 19, 2016

'Piggybacking' mitochondrial DNA can compromise mitochondrial replacement therapy

A study published in Cell Stem Cell found that small amounts of mitochondrial DNA can override the mitochondria in donor cells after nuclear transfer, raising concerns about the therapy's safety and effectiveness. The researchers are now exploring strategies to avoid this carryover and ensure complete mitochondrial DNA replacement.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 19, 2016

Tampering with the current in a petri dish

A PhD student at OIST Graduate University created a plastic insert that modifies the pathways of the electric current in a circular shape, making each current path of the same distance. This design enables researchers to study cells in a uniform electric field, even in circular-shaped environments like petri dishes.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 19, 2016

Mechanism that reduces effect of cocaine on brain discovered

A recent study by McGill University Health Centre researchers found that microglia can reduce the adverse changes to neural circuitry caused by chronic cocaine use. Microglia may be enticed to keep going by stimulating their production of TNF, which suppresses synaptic changes caused by cocaine.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalNeuron·DateMay 19, 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.

Mouse study finds link between gut bacteria and neurogenesis

A mouse study reveals that antibiotics can kill off gut bacteria and stop new brain cell growth in the hippocampus. However, probiotics and exercise have been shown to improve memory and neurogenesis by balancing the communication between the brain, immune system, and gut.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 19, 2016

Altered brain connectivity may explain cognitive impairment in pediatric leukemia survivors

A study published in Brain Connectivity suggests that pediatric leukemia survivors may experience cognitive impairment due to chemotherapy-induced brain damage. The research used diffusion tensor imaging to analyze the white matter connectome of ALL survivors and healthy young people, revealing significantly lower connectivity and grea...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBrain Connectivity·DateMay 18, 2016

Early introduction of allergenic foods reduces risk of food sensitization

A study of 1,421 Canadian children found that early introduction of allergenic foods decreases the risk of sensitization to these foods. Early introduction of eggs was especially beneficial, reducing the risk of sensitization to any of the three tested foods. The study suggests a shift in thinking from delayed food introduction to earl...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 18, 2016
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.

Antimicrobial in common toothpaste doesn't impact gut, oral microbiome

Researchers found that exposure to triclosan through household products did not significantly affect the gut or oral microbiome. The study, published in mSphere, suggests that people can safely use triclosan-containing toothpaste without worrying about its impact on their microbiome.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmSphere·DateMay 18, 2016

Harnessing engineered slippery surfaces for tissue repair

A new method enables the rapid release of intact cell sheets from a culture dish to damaged tissues, revolutionizing tissue repair. The technique leverages Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surfaces (SLIPS) to induce slipperiness and detach cell sheets in just five minutes.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 18, 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.

NIH names Johns Hopkins a Center of Excellence for bioethics research

The Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics will lead a university-wide team studying the ethical, legal and social implications of applying genomics to infectious diseases. The grant establishes a Specialized CEER with over $4 million in funding to explore genomic ELSI issues in infectious disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateMay 18, 2016

Strategies for dealing with the cuckoo mafia

Researchers found that host birds only tolerate brood parasite eggs when threatened with retaliation by the parasitic birds. This 'mafia hypothesis' explains why some hosts accept parasitic eggs despite the risk of losing their own young.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateMay 18, 2016

Large-scale HIV vaccine trial to launch in South Africa

A large clinical trial is set to begin in November 2016 to determine the safety and effectiveness of an investigational HIV vaccine regimen. The study, called HVTN 702, will enroll 5,400 adults at risk for HIV infection and assess the regimen's ability to prevent HIV infection among South African adults.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateMay 18, 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.

Colors of autism spectrum described by CanChild researchers

Researchers at CanChild Centre developed an autism classification system that defines levels of social communications ability among children with autism spectrum disorder. The new system, called the Autism Classification System of Functioning: Social Communication, provides a standardized and simplified way for clinicians to talk about...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateMay 18, 2016

Could hepatitis C treatments help prevent virus transmission?

A team of researchers suggests that increasing HCV treatment rates among people with mild disease could reduce transmission, while targeting those with severe disease has little impact. The studies also highlight the importance of increasing HCV treatments to prevent End Stage Liver Disease and related cancers or deaths

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateMay 18, 2016

New study evaluates nicotine's relationship to body weight and food intake

A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research demonstrates that nicotine suppresses body weight gain in rats independent of food intake. The study suggests a potential link between nicotine exposure and weight regulation, offering insights into the development of obesity pharmacotherapies.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateMay 18, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

York U's OUCH lab pain study links children's fear of needles to parent behaviour

Researchers at York University's OUCH lab found that past and continuing behaviour of parents is the biggest reason for a child's suffering from needle-related anxiety. The study, published in the journal Pain, highlights the importance of developing interventions to help parents support their children during painful medical procedures.

SourceYork University·JournalPain·DateMay 18, 2016

How depression and antidepressant drugs work

Researchers discover that depression results from deficiencies in both GABA and glutamate signaling, which can be restored with a single dose of ketamine. The study uses a mouse model to develop safer alternatives to current antidepressant medications.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 18, 2016

Digital health intervention does not lower heart attack risk

A digital health intervention using email and text messages aimed at improving diet and physical activity had no effect on reducing heart attack risk among a South Asian population. The study found that knowledge of genetic risk was not a motivator for behavior change.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMay 18, 2016