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Science News for February 20, 2017


Origin of spooky meteor noises reappraised by Sandia researchers

A team of scientists, led by Richard Spalding, discovered that the brilliant pulsating light emitted by burning asteroids can heat surrounding objects and generate sounds. This phenomenon, known as photoacoustic coupling, produces faint sounds similar to rustling leaves or whispers.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

New approach to cervical cancer care in Botswana cuts treatment lag time in half

A new, multidisciplinary model of cervical cancer care developed by a University of Pennsylvania team in Botswana cut the delay between diagnosis and treatment by more than 50 percent. The model streamlined care and communication between providers, reducing delays in treatment and simplifying the overall process.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Global Oncology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Fifth of world's food lost to over-eating and waste, study finds

A recent study suggests that almost 20% of food produced is lost due to over-consumption and waste. This represents a significant amount of resources wasted globally, which could be redirected to improve global food security and prevent environmental harm.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalAgricultural Systems·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Augsburg Master Builders' Ledgers now available online

The Augsburg Master Builders' Ledgers provide a unique window into the economic, financial, social, and cultural history of the early modern period. The digital edition, made possible by three years of work, offers a comprehensive inventory of information on the city's income and expenditure from 1320 to 1800.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateFeb 20, 2017

Doctors' biases mean black men don't get the same treatment in healthcare

A qualitative study by Marie Plaisime found that healthcare providers perceive black male patients with bias, fear, and discomfort. This bias influences treatment decisions, leading to unequal care for black men compared to white male patients with identical symptoms.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·DateFeb 20, 2017

Scientists explore the evolution of a 'social supergene' in the red fire ant

Researchers from Queen Mary University of London found that a chromosome responsible for the social organization of colonies is likely to have evolved through a single genetic event. The study reveals that a 'supergene' region containing over 500 genes plays a crucial role in determining colony type and social organization.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Barriers and opportunities to mainstreaming of a national digital health program

A new study reveals barriers and facilitators to implementing a digital health programme in the UK, highlighting challenges such as lack of IT infrastructure and trust in security. The researchers provide ten key recommendations to aid adoption, including investment in digital healthcare and upskilling efforts.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

GMU researchers helping intelligence analysts make smart decisions

Researchers at George Mason University are developing a tool combining intelligent computer software and crowdsourcing to help intelligence analysts make informed decisions. The IARPA-funded Co-Arg project aims to provide cognitive assistants that can test hypotheses, evaluate evidence, and provide intelligent reasoning in high-stakes ...

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateFeb 20, 2017

UT mole study shows anyone can be backyard scientist

A new study by Vladimir Dinets of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville shows that broad-footed moles feed on the ground frequently during cool, wet nights with fog or rain. This nocturnal foraging behavior makes surface-active moles difficult to observe, and contradicts long-held assumptions about their fossorial lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalMammalia·DateFeb 20, 2017

Cars and chlamydia killing Queensland koalas

A University of Queensland-led study found that cars and chlamydia were the top causes of a 80% decline in south-east Queensland koalas over two decades. At least a quarter of healthy, breeding koalas died from car accidents, while half the population was affected by multiple diseases or health problems.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Changes of supermassive black hole in the center of NGC 2617 galaxy

Astronomers observe a dramatic change in the appearance of supermassive black hole in NGC 2617 galaxy, revealing previously hidden inner regions. Researchers believe rapid gas swallowing and intense radiation may be responsible for the transformation.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 20, 2017

Tiny nanoclusters could solve big problems for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed superionic solid nanoclusters that could replace liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries. The nanoclusters' unique structure enables ions to move through them like a liquid, improving thermal and mechanical stability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017

A novel positioning algorithm based on self-adaptive algorithm

The proposed SA-RBF-TSE algorithm corrects TDOA measurements using a Self-Adaptive RBF neural network and improves position estimation. It adapts the number of RBF nodes and center vector based on error distribution, resulting in high accuracy and reliability compared to other algorithms.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Electrical & Electronic Engineering Journal·DateFeb 20, 2017

Single-payer reform is 'the only way to fulfill the president's pledge' on health care

A single-payer health reform would provide comprehensive first-dollar coverage to all Americans, abolishing copayments and deductibles, while saving an estimated $504 billion annually in administrative costs. The proposal, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, also includes hard bargaining with drug companies over prices.

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Cutting-edge cameras reveal the secret life of dolphins

A world-first study has used custom-made non-invasive cameras to capture over 535 minutes of rare dolphin activities, including mother-calf interaction and social behaviors. The results provide unprecedented insight into the lives of these marine top predators.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMarine Biology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Warming ponds could accelerate climate change

A new study found that warming ponds can release almost twice as much methane and absorb half as much carbon dioxide over a seven-year period. This amplifies the effects of global warming on these small ecosystems, contributing significantly to climate change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 20, 2017

High-sensitivity cameras reveal the atomic structure of metal-organic frameworks

Researchers at KAUST developed a method for fine-scale imaging of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), visualizing their atomic structures without damage. The high sensitivity of detectors allowed them to acquire images with resolutions as low as 0.21 nanometers, revealing surface and interfacial structures.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Many cancer survivors change their prescription drug use for financial reasons

A new study found that cancer survivors are changing their prescription drug use due to financial constraints, with a significant proportion of non-elderly adults skipping medication or seeking cheaper options. This phenomenon has important policy implications and highlights the need for improved doctor-patient communication about the ...

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateFeb 20, 2017

Creative people have better-connected brains

A new study suggests that the communication between brain hemispheres is key to creativity. Highly creative individuals have significantly more nerve connections between their right and left hemispheres, particularly in the frontal lobe.

SourceDuke University·JournalBayesian Analysis·DateFeb 20, 2017

Child obesity '35-40 percent' inherited from parents, study finds

A new study by the University of Sussex found that around 35-40% of a child's BMI is inherited from their parents. The intergenerational transmission of BMI is approximately constant across countries, suggesting that genetics and family environment are key factors in obesity.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalEconomics & Human Biology·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Mercury in fish, seafood may be linked to higher risk of ALS

A new study suggests that consuming fish and seafood with higher levels of mercury may increase the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The study found that individuals who ate fish and seafood regularly were at double the risk for ALS compared to those with lower mercury intake.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Those who help each other can invade harsher environments

A new study from Lund University and international researchers reveals that cooperative breeding of offspring is key to successful colonization in harsh environments. By sharing genes, helpers and offspring benefit from monogamous breeding females, enabling species to invade previously inaccessible areas.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 20, 2017

Study points to treatment strategy for anorexia

New research in adolescent rodents identifies under-expression of α4βδ-GABAA receptors as a risk factor for anorexia nervosa-like behavior. Boosting receptor activity may be a promising treatment strategy, addressing the high mortality rate of this mental illness.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Neuroscience Research·DateFeb 20, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Pitt study finds potential marker of drug response in many cancer types

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have identified a novel genetic mechanism and marker that may predict response to a class of drugs in many cancer types. Elevated levels of IGF2BP3 protein were found in both thyroid and other common cancers, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for treatment response.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2017

An alternative to opioids? Compound from marine snail is potent pain reliever

Scientists at the University of Utah have discovered a compound from the venom of a small Caribbean Sea snail that blocks pain by targeting a distinct pathway not associated with opioid drugs. The benefits of the compound continue even after it has cleared the body, suggesting a potential new therapy for chronic pain.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2017

Waste silicon sawdust recycled into anode for lithium-ion battery

Scientists have developed a method to recycle unwanted Si sawdust into high-capacity and durable LIBs with capacities up to 3.3 times larger than conventional graphite. The proposed recycling process has the potential to be mass-produced at a reasonably low cost.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

UBC study links slot-machine addiction to immersion in the game

A new UBC study reveals that gamblers who feel immersed in slot machines are more likely to have gambling problems. The research suggests that designing slots with eye-catching messages and disrupting the 'slot machine zone' state can promote more responsible play.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateFeb 20, 2017

Decision-making suffers when cancer patients avoid math

Research shows that people who are less numerate experience worse health outcomes, including for cancer patients. To cope, patients can ask for numbers, understand what the numbers mean, consider absolute risk, and narrow down treatment options.

SourceOhio State University·DateFeb 20, 2017

Dream of energy-collecting windows is one step closer to reality

The development of efficient luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) using silicon nanoparticles has the potential to create photovoltaic windows that can capture over 5% of the sun's energy at unprecedented low costs. The technology, developed by researchers from the University of Minnesota and University of Milano-Bicocca, uses silico...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 20, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Long-term heavy drinking may age arteries over time

Researchers found that male former drinkers were at increased risk for accelerated rates of arterial stiffness compared to moderate drinkers. Long-term heavy drinking habits over 25 years may affect the elasticity of arterial walls and premature age arteries, interfering with blood flow.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 20, 2017

Volcano Samalas mystery revealed

The Samalas volcano's massive eruption in 1257 is believed to have had a significant impact on European climate conditions. However, new research published in Nature Geoscience suggests that its effects were exaggerated and not the primary cause of the Little Ice Age.

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Family focused interventions for at risk children and youth

A new special section in Child Development outlines evidence-based interventions to support at-risk families and promote resilience among children. The focus is on nurturing primary caregivers, promoting positive parenting behaviors, and fostering self-regulation skills among parents and children.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 20, 2017

Prospect for more effective treatment of nerve pain

Researchers have discovered a novel substance that may effectively treat trigeminal neuralgia, a chronic nerve pain condition. The substance, BIIB074, inhibits the sodium channel 1.7, reducing pain intensity without burdening side effects.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Fluorescence method detects mercury contamination in fish

Researchers developed a fluorescent polymer that can detect high levels of mercury in fish, which can lead to reduced fetal growth and placental development. The study found increased mercury levels in swordfish and tuna, with no mercury detected in farmed salmon.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017

Why are there different 'flavors' of iron around the Solar System?

Scientists studied iron isotope ratios to understand Earth's differentiation event and how it differed from other planets. Nickel played a key role in shaping the ratios, with different elements forming under various planetary formation conditions.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Cardiomyocyte autophagia and morphological alterations

Researchers studied cardiomyocyte autophagia in rabbits with acute focal ischemia. The study found that autophagy increases immediately after ischemia to protect cells, but decreases over time due to energy conservation. This mechanism helps prevent necrotic area expansion and cardiac death.

SourceRUDN University·DateFeb 20, 2017

Unlocking crop diversity by manipulating plant sex

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered a key to increasing crop diversity by manipulating plant sex through the HEI10 gene. This breakthrough has significant implications for introducing novel disease resistance genes into elite crop varieties, addressing a major limitation in crop improvement.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 20, 2017

MS treatment that 'resets' immune system may halt disease progression for at least 5 years

A type of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) has been shown to slow or stop MS disease progression for up to five years in nearly half of patients, with significant benefits seen in younger patients and those with relapsing-remitting MS. However, the treatment carries a small risk of death and is not suitable fo...

SourceImperial College London·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Winners and losers: Climate change will shift vegetation

A new study predicts that climate change will convert much of temperate grasslands and deserts to subtropical vegetation, leading to changes in precipitation and soil moisture. This shift could have significant impacts on ecological services and human populations, particularly for agriculture and ecosystems.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Novel plasma jet offshoot phenomenon explains blue atmospheric jets

Researchers discovered a new discharge phenomenon, apokamp, occurring off the plasma arc in air at normal atmospheric pressure. The apokamp consists of ionisation waves - plasma bullets - moving with high velocity and may help explain blue jet phenomenon identified in 1994.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 20, 2017

Metabolism drives growth and division of cancer cells

Researchers found that cancer cells rely on metabolic processes, specifically the use of intermediates for energy production, to drive growth and division. A specific variant of STAT5, which cannot detect a marker indicating a full energy supply, prevents sustained activation necessary for leukemia development.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalLeukemia·DateFeb 20, 2017

Experimental vaccine protects against multiple malaria strains

A Phase 1 clinical trial demonstrates the PfSPZ Vaccine's ability to protect against at least two strains of malaria. The vaccine activated T cells and induced antibody responses in all recipients, providing some insights into its protective efficacy.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2017

NIH workshop identifies complex health problems among Zika-affected infants

Zika virus exposure in utero may lead to a range of health issues, including abnormal reflexes, limb abnormalities, and brain defects such as microcephaly. A multidisciplinary approach is needed for Zika-affected children, involving both clinical treatment and research strategies.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Pest ant control improved with water-resistant bait

A new water-resistant ant bait has been shown to offer significant advantages over existing baits in controlling invasive species such as the red imported fire ant. The bait's ability to withstand moisture makes it an effective tool for managing pest ants, especially in humid environments.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Economic Entomology·DateFeb 20, 2017

A maintenance program key to keeping off lost weight

Researchers found that a telephone-based weight loss program combined with a maintenance intervention slowed the rate of weight regain in obese outpatients. The study suggests that incorporating weight maintenance interventions into clinical programs could make them more effective over the long term.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2017

Basking sharks seek out winter sun

Researchers used satellite tracking to study basking shark migrations, revealing they don't hibernate in UK waters but instead seek out warmer temperatures. The data provides crucial information for conservation efforts, as the species is classified as 'vulnerable' and faces threats from human activities.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Selenium deficiency promoted by climate change

Scientists modelled global soil selenium concentrations using data mining techniques and found dominant role of climate-soil interactions. Climate change scenarios predict selenium levels to increase in some regions but decrease overall, with up to 66% of croplands expected to lose selenium by the end of the century.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2017

Research reveals how the brain remembers fearful experiences

Scientists discovered specific brain signals associated with fearful experiences in rat brains, allowing them to predict location-based avoidance. The study suggests a potential mechanism for understanding memory loss in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 20, 2017

Significant epilepsy gene discovery in dogs

A collaborative study has discovered a genetic cause for myoclonic epilepsy syndrome in dogs, the DIRAS1 gene. This finding has significant implications for both veterinary diagnostics and breeding programs, as well as human epilepsy research.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Impacts of mass coral die-off on Indian Ocean reefs revealed

New research reveals that mass coral die-offs in the Maldives and other Indian Ocean reefs have caused widespread bleaching and erosion, leading to a rapid decline in reef growth rates. The study found that reefs are now eroding at a faster rate than they are growing, with severe consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 2017

A new computer model explores how proteins are controlled 'at a distance'

EPFL scientists developed a new computer model to predict allosteric pathways for enzymes and other proteins, enabling more efficient drug design. The model proposes a new hypothesis for allosteric architectures, introducing the concept of 'levers' that amplify responses at a distance.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 20, 2017

Experiments call origin of Earth's iron into question

A team of researchers has found that the Earth's iron composition is not linked to its core formation, sparking alternative theories on why our planet has higher levels of heavy iron isotopes. The study suggests light iron isotopes may have been vaporized into space or incorporated into rock through slow mantle churning.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017

Majority of opioid medications not safely stored in homes with children, survey finds

A national survey found that nearly 70% of prescription opioid medications kept in homes with children are not stored safely. Among households with older children, only 12% reported safe storage. The study highlights the need for education and new technology to prevent accidental ingestions and overdose among young people.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 20, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Understanding how HIV evades the immune system

Researchers from Monash University and Cardiff University have made a breakthrough understanding how HIV evades the immune system by mutating key molecules, which will help design better therapies and vaccines. The study provides new insights into HIV's ability to evade the immune system.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 20, 2017

Mindfulness shows promise as we age, but study results are mixed

A review of mindfulness research found that focused attention practices may benefit older adults by fostering a greater quality of life and improving cognitive functioning. However, the field is limited and would greatly benefit from larger randomized controlled trials to confirm results.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateFeb 20, 2017

Study reveals 'nightmare' for Central Africa's forest elephants

The study found that Central Africa's forest elephant population has dropped by over 80% in a decade, mainly due to illegal poaching. The researchers emphasize the need to reduce demand for ivory and recognize forest elephants as a distinct species to save them from extinction.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 20, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

A chemical investigation of employees -- How to distinguish a blue collar from a white one

A study by Russian scientists analyzed the hair of petrochemical workers, finding higher levels of As, Hg, Sn, I, and Si in office workers compared to those in other departments. Essential elements like Cr, Fe, and I were found in higher concentrations in primary oil refining employees, while toxic element content was generally lower i...

SourceRUDN University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateFeb 20, 2017

Buying green doesn't make you green: QUT study

A QUT study found that investing in Green IT solutions can reduce costs, but to generate substantial environmental and innovation benefits, companies must adopt more comprehensive green practices. This includes process re-engineering, environmental management systems, and digital innovations that promote sustainability.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalInformation Systems Journal·DateFeb 20, 2017

Students more likely to succeed if teachers have positive perceptions of parents

A study by researchers at the University of Missouri found that teacher ratings of parental involvement early in a child's academic career can accurately predict their academic and social success. The study also showed that a teacher training program can help improve the quantity and quality of teacher-parent interactions.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSchool Psychology Quarterly·DateFeb 20, 2017

Molecular biology: Fingerprinting cell identities

Researchers compared six methods for single-cell RNA sequencing and found that some commercial kits are ten times more expensive than homemade versions. The choice of method depends on the experiment's conditions and demands. This study is valuable for further developing the technology, particularly in the Human Cell Atlas project.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 20, 2017
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.

Crowdsourcing effort helps researchers predict how a molecule will smell

A crowdsourcing effort helped researchers develop a mathematical model that can forecast the scent a molecule will evoke. The study used over 1 million data points from human volunteers to link perceptual information to chemical features, achieving a perfect score of 0.83 in smell prediction.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateFeb 20, 2017

Switched-on DNA

An ASU-led team has developed the first controllable DNA switch, allowing for reversible control of electricity flow within a single molecule. The modified DNA helix can conduct electricity and is reversibly controlled using an anthraquinone group.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 20, 2017