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Science News for December 31, 2015


CRISPR treats genetic disorder in adult mammal

Duke University researchers successfully treated an adult mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy using CRISPR gene editing. The treatment involved delivering the gene-editing system directly to the affected tissues through a non-pathogenic carrier called adeno-associated virus, overcoming several delivery challenges.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015

New technique offers strong, flawless 3-D printed ceramics

Researchers developed a method to create ceramic materials using 3D printing with minimal cracking, enabling complex shapes and high temperatures. The resulting silicon carbide material can withstand 1,400°C temperatures without cracking, making it suitable for hypersonic vehicles and jet engines.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015
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.

A father's diet affects the RNA of his sperm, mouse study shows

Research reveals that a father's diet can impact the RNA of his sperm, which in turn can affect gene regulation in offspring. Studies found that high-fat diets and low-protein diets can lead to changes in specific small RNAs, including tRNA-Gly-GCC, which suppresses genes related to metabolic disorders.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015

Creating safer polio vaccine strains for the post-eradication era

Researchers developed new vaccine strains that are effective, stable, and non-infectious, addressing concerns about live virus escape and disease transmission. The new strains are suitable for mass production in the post-eradication world, reducing risk to humans and environment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 31, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How epigenetics can affect ants' behavior

Scientists used compounds to alter epigenetic marks in ant colonies, demonstrating lasting effects on behavior. Epigenetic modifications, such as histone acetylation, influenced caste-based systems and worker responsibilities.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015

New genes born by accident lead to evolutionary innovation

A new study reveals that random mutations can give rise to novel genes, leading to the evolution of new molecular functions. The researchers identified thousands of human-specific genes and found that certain macaque genome elements are less present than expected.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateDec 31, 2015

Human-machine superintelligence can solve the world's most dire problems

Researchers from Human Computation Institute and Cornell University propose a new vision of human computation that combines human and computer intelligence to solve complex, interconnected problems. This approach enables the construction of flexible collaborative environments that can address challenging issues.

SourceHuman Computation Institute·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015
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.

Genetically correcting a muscle disorder

Researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a debilitating genetic disease. By deleting exon 23 and restoring dystrophin protein levels, the therapy improved muscle function in mice with DMD, including cardiac and pulmonary health.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015

Penn-led team reprograms social behavior in carpenter ants using epigenetic drugs

A Penn-led team has discovered that caste-specific behaviors in ant colonies can be directly altered by changing the balance of epigenetic chemicals. The study found that compounds inhibiting histone acetylation increased foraging behavior in minors, while injecting these inhibitors into young major ants also boosted foraging activity.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateDec 31, 2015
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.

Melting, coating, and all-solid-state lithium batteries

Researchers created a new way to coat solid electrolyte around electrodes, solving problems of gasification and poor permeability. The breakthrough enables high-ion conductivity and air stability in all-solid-state lithium batteries.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 31, 2015

Late-season Central Pacific tropical depression forms

Tropical Depression 9C formed in the Central Pacific on Dec. 31, with an elongated structure suggesting a weaker system. The depression is moving northwest at 3 mph, with little change in intensity expected due to strong easterly wind shear.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 31, 2015

Seeing DROSHA for the first time

Scientists at IBS Center for RNA Research have elucidated the three-dimensional image of DROSHA, one part of the Microprocessor complex. This discovery confirms previous findings and reveals unique physical characteristics of DROSHA, including a 'bump' that may act as a measuring guide for cleaving pri-miRNA.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell·DateDec 31, 2015