Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2016 - Page 6


Page 6 of 12

Fruit flies yield clues on cancerous tumor hotspots

Researchers discovered that tumors in fruit flies always originate from specific regions of epithelial tissue, which also occurs in humans and other animals. This finding may lead to a better understanding of cancer development and the discovery of potential treatments.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 7, 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.

Faculty team awarded $1.25 million to study 'swimming cells'

A research team from Washington University has been awarded a $1.25 million grant to study the movement and mechanics of flagella in a green alga called Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, which is nearly identical to human cilia. The goal is to understand how these tiny organelles propel movements and potentially develop new discoveries in mec...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateSep 7, 2016

Stealth pig cells may hold the key to treating diabetes in humans

University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers are developing a way to wrap insulin-producing cell-clusters from pigs in a thin protective coating to prevent immune rejection. The goal is to transplant these cells into humans to treat Type 1 diabetes, with promising results in preclinical work.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateSep 7, 2016

Adverse drug reactions may be under-reported in young children

A new study reveals that spontaneous reports of adverse drug reactions in newborns and infants are insufficient, highlighting the need for additional reporting strategies. The UK's Yellow Card Scheme, established over 50 years ago, has improved drug safety but may not be enough to capture all instances of adverse reactions.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateSep 7, 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.

Tapping the unused potential of photosynthesis

Researchers at the University of Southampton have developed a new method to harness the unused potential of photosynthesis by introducing an additional enzyme that captures more light energy. This innovation enables the efficient bioremediation of polluted wastewater areas, as shown in their study published in ACS Synthetic Biology.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateSep 7, 2016

Leopoldina Annual Assembly

The Leopoldina Annual Assembly brings together 400 participants from around the world to discuss international dialogue in science. Key findings include recognition of outstanding research into present-day Chinese culture, with Freiburg sinologist Lena Henningsen receiving the Leopoldina Early Career Award 2016.

SourceLeopoldina·DateSep 7, 2016

CAR-T cell therapy makes strides in clinic *free*

In a phase 1 clinical study of 32 participants with advanced B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, immunotherapy with defined subsets of T cells showed strong antitumor activity. The therapy was found to be more effective when combined with specific ratios of CD4 and CD8 CAR-T cells and pretreatment chemotherapy regimen.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

Reconciling dwarf galaxies with dark matter

Theoretical modeling work resolves debates on dwarf galaxy formation by accurately predicting their properties. The new simulation brings theoretical predictions into better agreement with observations of dwarf galaxies surrounding the Milky Way.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 7, 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.

Researchers find molecular link behind aspirin's protective powers

Aspirin has been found to have a molecular link that explains its ability to reduce the risk of both cardiovascular disease and colon cancer. The researchers discovered a gene regulatory protein that not only influences platelet function but also suppresses tumors in the colon.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalEBioMedicine·DateSep 7, 2016

New tumor analysis method identifies high-risk prostate cancer

Researchers developed a new way to identify aggressive prostate cancer patients by analyzing their tumor's genetic pathways. The study found three subtypes of prostate tumors, with one subtype showing high disease progression and poor clinical outcomes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 7, 2016

More evidence that TV ads may influence kids' drinking

Research suggests that TV ads may influence kids' alcohol consumption, with those exposed to more ads consuming more alcohol. A study of over 1,000 13-20 year olds found that more ad exposure was linked to higher total consumption of advertised brands.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateSep 7, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

September Health Affairs

A study published in Health Affairs evaluated the impact of in-service training and supervision on quality of care for pregnant women and sick children in sub-Saharan Africa. The research found that while receiving recent training and supervision was associated with improved quality, it did not exceed 50% of expected performance.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 7, 2016

Sugar transforms a traditional Chinese medicine into a cruise missile

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have developed a new compound by attaching glucose to triptolide, making it more effective against cancer cells. The compound, glutriptolide 2, shows promise as a potential anticancer treatment with fewer side effects.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 7, 2016

Intestinal bacteria influence food allergies

Researchers found that a protein called NOD2 plays a critical role in determining the strength of anaphylactic reactions to food allergens. A changed immune reaction leads to more Th2 helper cells and increased antibody immunoglobulin E production, triggering allergic reactions.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateSep 7, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fuel cell membrane patented by Sandia outperforms market

Researchers have developed a polyphenyline membrane that operates at temperatures between 176-320 degrees F, lasting three times longer than comparable commercial products. The membrane uses ammonium ion pairs to enhance stability and resist degradation, making it suitable for automotive applications.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 7, 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.

Researchers identify method of creating long-lasting memories

A new study in mice finds that dopamine release from the brain's locus coeruleus region can enhance memory retention. The researchers used optogenetics to activate dopamine-carrying neurons and found a direct, long-lasting synaptic strengthening that improved learning and memory.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2016

Deadly scrub typhus bacteria confirmed in South America

Researchers confirm cluster of cases in Chile, suggesting wider global distribution than previously understood. Scrub typhus kills at least 140,000 people annually and is transmitted through mite bites.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 7, 2016

New material to revolutionize water proofing

Scientists at Australian National University have developed a new spray-on material that can repel water and withstand ultraviolet radiation. The coating, made from nanoparticles, is transparent, stable, and has numerous real-world applications.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 7, 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.

Probing a mosquito protein for clues in the fight against Zika

Researchers have gained structural insights on a key protein from Aedes aegypti, the mosquito species most often linked to Zika. The study suggests compounds targeting this protein could kill mosquitoes and reduce cases of Zika and other illnesses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiochemistry·DateSep 7, 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.

A tail of gene expression

Researchers found that messenger molecules in flatworms have alternate forms with varying tail lengths, affecting gene expression. The study provides insights into stem cell regulation and tissue regeneration.

SourceNational Centre for Biological Sciences·DateSep 6, 2016

Early study shows RTS,S malaria vaccine efficacy may improve by changing dosing schedule

Researchers found that changing the dosing regimen of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine improved its efficacy to approximately 87%, compared to 63% with the current standard regimen. The new regimen was shown to delay infection longer and provide better protection against a second malaria-causing parasite exposure.

SourceWalter Reed Army Institute of Research·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateSep 6, 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.

Towards the workplace of the future -- with virtual reality

The conference will showcase the latest developments and studies on augmented and virtual reality, enabling trainees to learn on-the-job skills and enhancing the workplace of the future. Researchers will present prototypes, including a product from Virtalis that allows interactive discussion and modification of 3D constructions.

SourceBielefeld University·DateSep 6, 2016

Body heat as a power source

Researchers have created a flexible, wearable thermocell that harnesses body heat to generate electricity. The device uses gel-based electrolytes and combines two different redox pairs to produce a current. This innovation overcomes previous challenges in wearable energy harvesting and storage devices.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 6, 2016

Trauma and shopping

A study of 355 World War II veterans found that those who experienced intense combat were more price-sensitive and less brand loyal. This research provides insights for store owners and aid providers on what items to stock in stores after a disaster, such as practical and affordable options like off-brand variety.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateSep 6, 2016

Electric fans may exacerbate heat issues for seniors, study finds

A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center suggests that electric fans can exacerbate heat issues for seniors, increasing their heart rates and internal temperatures. The researchers found that when elderly patients used fans to cool down in a hot environment, their body temperature rose instead of falling.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateSep 6, 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.

NASA sees Namtheun dissipating in the Sea of Japan

Tropical Depression Namtheun is dissipating over the Sea of Japan due to limited convection and wind speeds near 28.7 mph. The storm ceased to qualify as a tropical cyclone after moving north-northeast at 10 knots.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 6, 2016

UTA researchers' papers find concept of using light to image, potentially treat PTSD

Researchers at UTA have discovered a potential non-invasive treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using near-infrared light. The study, published in Nature's Scientific Reports, found that shining near-infrared light on the brain increases production of cytochrome-c-oxidase, a protein that stimulates blood flow.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

Is sex in later years good for your health?

A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that sex in later years can have contrasting effects on cardiovascular health for men and women. For older men, frequent sex increases the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, while moderate amounts of sex may promote health among older women.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateSep 6, 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.

Post-mortem assessment guidelines for vascular cognitive impairment

Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a set of guidelines for assessing vascular cognitive impairment, which can help determine the likelihood that cognitive decline was caused by vascular disease. The guidelines are based on pathological criteria and can be used to streamline research into dementia.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBrain·DateSep 6, 2016

New $9.7 million grant to advance research on theory of aging

A new $9.67 million grant will be used to investigate the connection between retrotransposable elements and aging, with the goal of developing therapeutic interventions. The researchers will work with human cells, mice, and fruit flies to study how these elements contribute to age-related diseases.

SourceBrown University·DateSep 6, 2016

Thrive or fail: Examining forest resilience in the face of fires

A framework has been developed to help scientists predict when forests will be resilient enough to recover from fires, and when they will be drastically altered. The framework considers factors such as ecological memory, material legacies, and the impact of changing climate conditions on forest recovery.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateSep 6, 2016

Twin study helps unravel the genetic blueprint of the human brain

A landmark twin study has identified moderate to strong genetic contributions to the volume of cortical and subcortical brain structures in people over 65. The research found that specific brain regions, such as the hippocampus, have high genetic influences, while others show unique genetic determinants.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

Friends help friends on Facebook feel better

A Carnegie Mellon University and Facebook study found that personalized interactions on Facebook can significantly boost users' psychological well-being, even surpassing major life events. Sixty comments from close friends were associated with substantial increases in users' happiness and satisfaction with life.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Computer-Mediated Communication·DateSep 6, 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.

Mouse studies show experimental TB treatment may do more harm than good

Researchers found that a repurposed drug, pirfenidone, increased lung lesions and prevented antibiotics from targeting TB bacteria. The study suggests caution when using host-directed therapies for TB, emphasizing the need for careful vetting of new treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 2016

'Traffic jam' in brain linked to common cognitive disorder

A new study found a correlation between microscopic brain damage and impaired cognitive performance in patients with symptomatic carotid artery disease. The researchers used diffusion tensor imaging to assess white matter tract skeleton mean diffusivity, which showed the closest correlation with cognitive impairment.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateSep 6, 2016

Zika infects the eyes of adult mice

Researchers found that Zika virus can infect specific regions of the eye in adult mice, resulting in inflammation and symptoms similar to those observed in human patients. The study also raised questions about whether the virus continues to replicate in the lacrimal gland after being cleared from the body.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

MRIs during pregnancy and outcomes for infants, children

Exposure to MRI during the first trimester was not associated with increased risk of harm to the fetus or congenital anomalies. However, gadolinium-enhanced MRI was linked to a broad set of rheumatological and inflammatory conditions in early childhood.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateSep 6, 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.

Location matters in the self-assembly of nanoclusters

Researchers at Iowa State University have developed a theoretical framework to understand the relationship between capture zones and the formation of nanoclusters. The study highlights the importance of subtle spatial details in the nucleation process, which is crucial for controlling nanostructure properties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateSep 6, 2016

Canada needs a national suicide prevention strategy

Canada's high youth and indigenous suicide rates warrant a comprehensive national strategy. The World Health Organization has seen declines in countries with government-led programs, suggesting a similar approach could work here.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 6, 2016

BCL11A-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease passes key preclinical test

Researchers developed a precision-engineered gene therapy virus that selectively silences BCL11A, reducing signs of sickle cell disease and increasing fetal hemoglobin production. The approach has the potential to substantially increase the ratio of non-sickling versus sickling hemoglobin.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 6, 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.