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Science News for November 9, 2016


Researchers describe bone marrow stem cell population with potential for repeat transplantation

A new study reveals that non-blood cell forming stem cells in human bone marrow play a crucial role in maintaining the hematopoietic microenvironment and retain self-renewal potential after primary and secondary transplantations. The findings suggest an alternative to traditional hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateNov 9, 2016

Researchers discover new regulator in glucose metabolism

A new mechanism regulating glucose metabolism has been discovered by researchers at Helmholtz Munich. The transforming growth factor beta 1-stimulated clone 22 D4 (TSC22D4) gene acts as a molecular switch in the liver, influencing genes that can regulate metabolism throughout the body.

It's not a bird! It's not a plane! It's the fastest flying mammal, says UT study

A new study from the University of Tennessee reveals that Brazilian free-tailed bats can reach remarkable flight speeds, challenging existing assumptions about their capabilities. The research used a novel airplane tracking method to track the bats' flight patterns, demonstrating that they adapt to wind conditions like airplanes and birds

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 9, 2016

Environment-friendly hydrophobic coating made with salt particles

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have developed an environmentally friendly method to apply a superhydrophobic layer using commercially available salt particles, polydimethylsiloxane, and water. This coating exhibits ultrahydrophobic characteristics similar to the 'lotus effect', allowing for applications in a...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalApplied Surface Science·DateNov 9, 2016

Ensemble forecast of a major flooding event in Beijing

A recent study used a convective-permitting ensemble forecast system to evaluate the extreme rainfall event on July 21, 2012, in Beijing. The results showed that some members of the ensemble forecasting system captured the extreme prediction reasonably well, including the timing and location of extreme precipitation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 9, 2016

Healthy living equals better brain function

A study published in Frontiers found that individuals with greater self-control tend to engage in healthier behaviors, which in turn improve their executive function. The research suggests a bidirectional relationship between physical activity, executive function, and healthy behavior.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateNov 9, 2016

Noninvasive imaging technique protects healthy tissues during freezing of cancer lesions

A new technique for real-time temperature monitoring during cryotherapy procedures has been reported, using red blood cells as temperature sensors to convert optoacoustic images to temperature maps. This approach potentially prevents noncancerous tissue from being destroyed or damaged during cryotherapy.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateNov 9, 2016

The thinnest photodetector in the world

The researchers found that the one-layer MoS2 device absorbs less light but produces seven times more photocurrent than the thicker seven-layer MoS2 device. This is attributed to quantum physics mechanisms, including electron tunneling and reduced recombination within the MoS2 layer.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016

Now you see it, now you don't

Researchers created a cloaking device to minimize crosstalk between photonic devices, enabling the packing of billions of devices into a single chip. This technology could lead to significant power consumption reductions and lower carbon emissions in data centers.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016

Trickling electrons

At temperatures near absolute zero, electrons exhibit their quantum nature and form a granular medium, consisting of individual particles that trickle through a conductor. This phenomenon can be explained by quantum electrodynamics.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2016

Sculpting solar systems

Researchers have discovered complex systems of concentric rings surrounding young stars, formed by the interaction between protoplanetary discs and growing planets. These findings provide new insights into planet formation, shedding light on the dynamics of innermost disc regions.

SourceESO·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateNov 9, 2016

My contribution to Arctic sea ice melt

Researchers have found that each tonne of carbon dioxide emitted contributes to the loss of 3 square metres of Arctic summer sea ice. This linear relationship reveals individual contributions to global climate change, surpassing previous estimates made by climate models.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 9, 2016

Disability, reduced social participation associated with chronic conditions in middle-age

A new study from McMaster University finds that chronic conditions like arthritis, depression, and diabetes can lead to disability and reduced social participation in middle-aged adults. The research highlights the importance of targeting treatment strategies for patients and developing preventative health plans.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateNov 9, 2016

Increased smartphone screen-time associated with lower sleep quality

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found a significant association between increased smartphone screen-time and lower sleep quality. Over 650 adult participants recorded their daily screen-time using a smartphone application, revealing that longer screen-time periods were linked to poorer sleep quality and less sleep overall.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 2016

Rising CO2 threatens coral and people who use reefs

A new analysis predicts that most coral reef ecosystems will be severely impacted by ocean acidification and sea surface temperature rise, leading to lost fish habitats and shoreline protection. The study suggests that policy action must be informed by data and science to combat these threats and mitigate their effects on communities.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 9, 2016

Knowing risk factors could help catch melanomas

A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that patients with a family history of melanoma, multiple primary melanomas, or many moles are at higher risk for developing melanoma. The researchers recommend tailoring surveillance programs to individual risk factors to improve early detection and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateNov 9, 2016

The double wonder of worms

Researchers from Concordia University found that vermicomposting can inactivate harmful bacteria like E. coli in compost, producing high-quality material for plant fertilizers. The worms also generate valuable by-products as animal feed, promoting sustainable waste management and upcycling.

SourceConcordia University·JournalWaste Management·DateNov 9, 2016