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Science News for March 2, 2017


Chronic administration of nandrolone decanoate

Chronic administration of nandrolone decanoate in albino mice increased serum aldosterone and sodium ion levels, indicating possible steroid-related cardiovascular disorders. The study suggests a correlation between altered aldosterone concentrations and cardiovascular diseases.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCardiovascular & Hematological Agents in Medicinal Chemistry·DateMar 2, 2017

Skill trumps luck

DeepStack, a computer program developed by the University of Alberta's Computer Poker Research Group, has defeated professional poker players in heads-up no-limit Texas hold'em poker. The program uses a technique called continual re-solving to determine the correct strategy for each situation, allowing it to play at human speed.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

'Super-deep' diamonds may hold new information about Earth's interior

Scientists at Tohoku University simulated the formation of super-deep diamonds using high-pressure and high-temperature experiments. The study suggests that these rare diamonds can form through the reaction of Mg-carbonate and silica minerals at extreme depths, offering new insights into Earth's interior conditions.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 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.

More bang for the buck

Coral ecosystems in West Maui's northern reefs have declined by 20% due to sediment runoff, compromising corals' ability to photosynthesize. Researchers found that cooperation among landowners results in more cost-efficient and ecologically effective outcomes than individual actions.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateMar 2, 2017

Nanoengineers 3-D print biomimetic blood vessel networks

Researchers at UC San Diego have successfully printed a functional blood vessel network using 3D bioprinting, addressing a major challenge in tissue engineering. The technology enables the creation of complex microstructures with high resolution, using inexpensive and biocompatible materials.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 2, 2017

UTHealth receives $2.4 million grant to drive action-oriented research on healthier cities

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston has received a $2.4 million grant to create the Healthy Cities Research Hub, exploring drivers of diabetes and other chronic diseases in urban settings. The hub will facilitate knowledge exchange and evaluate community-based interventions aimed at improving public health in cities.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateMar 2, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Trump's policy changes put women's sexual and reproductive health at risk, argues expert

The Trump administration's policy changes put women's access to effective contraception and abortion care at risk. Professor Daniel Grossman warns that the re-imposition of the Mexico City Policy and proposed legislation could severely limit access to reproductive healthcare services, particularly for low-income individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care·DateMar 2, 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.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, March 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed innovative methods for creating complex patterns, accelerating gas separation, and optimizing manufacturing processes. The lab's expertise in additive manufacturing has enabled the rapid prototyping of components, while membrane-based gas separation has shown promising results.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 2, 2017

CCNY-based team develops sustainable, high energy density battery

Researchers at CCNY Energy Institute developed a sustainable, high-energy-density battery using manganese dioxide and copper. The unique material allows for both high cycle life and high areal capacity, making it suitable for practical applications.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2017

JILA team discovers many new twists in protein folding

Biophysicists at JILA measured protein folding with unprecedented detail, identifying 14 intermediate states in bacteriorhodopsin. The discovery reveals previously unknown dynamics, shedding light on the complex behavior of membrane proteins.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 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.

Taking stock: Where does Europe stand in the elimination of hepatitis B and C?

Despite progress in implementing primary and secondary prevention measures, Europe still has a long way to go to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030. The authors highlight the need for improved data collection and monitoring of interventions along the continuum of care to track progress and reduce mortality.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·DateMar 2, 2017

UKCRIC to deliver world-leading research on cities and infrastructure

UKCRIC will enable academia, industry, government and end users to collaborate on upgrading UK's infrastructure, reducing its cost and increasing resilience. The initiative will focus on developing new materials, techniques and technologies, as well as research into smart sensors and systems.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMar 2, 2017

Hydraulic forces help to fill the heart

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and KTH Royal Institute of Technology discovered hydraulic forces aid heart filling. The study suggests reducing atrium size can improve heart function in patients with heart failure.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 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.

New autoimmune endocrine disease triggered by thymomas

A Japanese research group has identified a newly-identified autoimmune endocrine disease caused by thymomas, which leads to hypopituitarism. The study found that abnormal expression of PIT-1 in thymoma cells triggers immune tolerance breakdown, resulting in autoimmunity.

SourceKobe University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 2017

The evolution of Japanese color vocabulary over the past 30 years

Researchers at Tohoku University found 19 common Japanese color categories, including 11 basic colors and eight additional named categories. The study also showed that traditional expressions from classic poetry have been retained despite modern linguistic changes.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Vision·DateMar 2, 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.

Study finds new mechanism to control information flow in the brain

A team of neuroscientists has found that somatostatin-expressing (Sst) interneurons play a key role in controlling the flow of information in the brain. The researchers discovered that these cells operate like a switchboard, selectively blocking or encouraging the flow of information to help animals make informed decisions and guide th...

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Horseback riding interventions have therapeutic benefits for people with disabilities

A systematic review and meta-analysis of horseback riding interventions found significant improvements in balance, motor function, and quality of life for children and adults with neuromotor disabilities. The studies also showed benefits for patients with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateMar 2, 2017

Researchers report first known case of CTE in patient with no known head trauma

Researchers at Toronto Western Hospital's Canadian Concussion Centre discovered CTE in a brain without head trauma or concussion history. The finding suggests that the cause of CTE might be more complex than previously thought, with Dr. Lili-Naz Hazrati stating that there are more questions than answers about the definitive causes of CTE.

SourceUniversity Health Network·JournalInternational Journal of Pathology and Clinical Research·DateMar 2, 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.

New research could trigger revolution in computer electronics manufacturing

Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a pioneering technique to engineer computer chips more easily and cheaper than conventional methods. The breakthrough could revolutionize the production of optoelectronic materials, enabling advancements in renewable energy, security, and defence technologies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 2, 2017

Cows may offer clues to improving fertility in women

Researchers at Michigan State University are studying the effect of hormones on ovulation and reproduction in cows to develop better fertility treatments for women. The study aims to improve fertility response rates by understanding how increased doses of fertility hormone impact ovarian function and egg quality.

SourceMichigan State University·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

Study identifies how cancer cells may develop resistance to FGFR inhibitors

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a mechanism by which cancer cells develop resistance to FGFR inhibitors. By inhibiting the regulatory protein Akt, they found that cell proliferation, migration, and invasion could be slowed in lung and bladder cancer cells.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalMolecular Cancer Therapeutics·DateMar 2, 2017

Robo-journalism: Journalists on their robot pretenders

A recent study found that automated journalism lacks the context and complexity of traditional reporting, citing issues with programming news angles in advance. However, journalists believe robo-journalism can reduce costs and increase specificity in some reporting areas.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalDigital Journalism·DateMar 2, 2017

Exploring the world of the Madeleine McCann trolls

Researchers found that trolls form 'anti-social networks' that reinforce their behaviour and are attracted to attention from media reports, highlighting the need for social media platforms to take responsibility for negative content

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateMar 2, 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.

A new way of assessing winter driving conditions and associated risks

A new study proposes a risk-based approach for classifying road surface conditions under winter weather events, aiming to improve current road classification systems. The approach estimates driving risk using a collision model calibrated with detailed hourly data of weather, road conditions, traffic, and accidents.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Civil Engineering·DateMar 2, 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.

Probing seven worlds with NASA's James Webb Space Telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope will analyze atmospheric components in TRAPPIST-1 exoplanets for potential biosignatures. Three promising planets, e, f and g, orbit within the habitable zone, with conditions suitable for supporting liquid water.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 2, 2017

Researchers store computer operating system and short movie on DNA

A team of researchers at Columbia University has developed an algorithm that unlocks DNA's full storage potential, storing up to 215 petabytes of data in a single gram. They demonstrate the reliability and efficiency of their DNA Fountain technique, which packs more information into DNA molecules than previously published methods.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

New path suggested for nuclear fusion

Scientists at Rice University and Chile have proposed a new approach to nuclear fusion by simulating the use of shaped laser pulses to control atomic reactions. This method could potentially produce energy efficiently from deuterium and tritium, with the goal of creating a more sustainable and clean source of power.

SourceRice University·DateMar 2, 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.

A SOI wafer is a suitable substrate for gallium nitride crystals

Gallium nitride (GaN) layers grown on SOI wafers exhibit higher crystalline quality and improved breakdown characteristics than those grown on silicon substrates. This enables the use of clearly higher voltages in power electronics and reduces losses and crosstalk in high-frequency applications.

SourceAalto University·JournalSemiconductor Science and Technology·DateMar 2, 2017

Brake dust may cause more problems than blackened wheel covers

Researchers found that brake dust particles can form a toxic aerosol when mixed with acidic sulfate in the air. The interaction can cause oxidative stress and increase the risk of adverse health effects. While electric cars may reduce tailpipe emissions, brake dust will remain a persistent source of pollution.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 2, 2017

Sharing extra spots could ease West End parking woes

A new UBC study suggests that renting out vacant residential parking stalls in Vancouver's West End could provide enough space for all residents and visitors. The researchers found that 46 properties have over 3,700 unused stalls, which could be converted into short-term parking with minimal modifications.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

'Red hair' gene variant may underlie association between melanoma and Parkinson's disease

A gene variant that produces red hair and fair skin in humans and mice has been found to contribute to the association between melanoma and Parkinson's disease. The study shows that mice carrying this variant have reduced dopamine production and increased sensitivity to toxins, making them more susceptible to neurodegeneration.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 2, 2017

As reliable as your hard drive? Maximizing DNA storage

Researchers have developed a DNA storage method called DNA Fountain that approaches the theoretical maximum for DNA storage, storing 60% more data than previous efforts. The technique uses a coding approach to randomly package information and reassemble it in order, minimizing errors and allowing for reliable retrieval of stored data.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

The lord of destruction

Professor Erik Bitzek aims to investigate the interactions between cracks and material defects to improve understanding of breaking processes in metals, intermetallic compounds, and semiconductors. He seeks realistic results through micromechanical models and fracture tests to develop novel, fail-safe materials.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateMar 2, 2017

Too many patients get liver tests they don't need, which can raise fears and costs

Researchers recommend that doctors exclude common liver issues before testing for rare conditions. Directed testing means ordering tests for the most common causes of sudden severe liver issues first, followed by tests for rare, dangerous autoimmune or genetic disorders that attack livers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateMar 2, 2017

Reducing cancer-related fatigue

A meta-analysis of 113 randomized clinical trials found that exercise, psychological interventions, and their combination were effective in reducing cancer fatigue. Pharmaceutical interventions did not show the same magnitude of improvement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 2, 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.

To improve our political climate, change the questions we ask

Researchers suggest using a deliberative frame in questions to promote democracy and healthy politics. The approach has shown promise in online town halls between Congress members and constituents, leading to high marks and repeated participation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

New in vitro toxicology research on health risk assessment wins PETA award

Researchers developed two new mechanistic models, Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs), to assess toxicological risk of chemicals without animal testing. The AOPs were recognized by PETA International Science Consortium for their contributions to non-animal approaches.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied In Vitro Toxicology·DateMar 2, 2017

Melting temperature of Earth's mantle depends on water

Researchers found the average temperature of Earth's mantle beneath ocean basins is about 60 degrees Celsius higher than previously thought, thanks to water in deep minerals. This discovery may change our understanding of tectonic plate movements and mantle viscosity.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

To understand others' minds, 'being' them beats reading them

New research published in Psychological Science found that simulating someone else's experience leads to greater accuracy in understanding their emotional state, not just observing their behavior. This challenge highlights the importance of empathy and strategies for better understanding others.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 2, 2017

Research finds a majority endorsing revenge porn

Research by University of Kent psychologists finds that most people (99%) approve of revenge porn being posted online, with a link to specific psychological characteristics. The study also found a positive correlation between revenge porn proclivity and the 'Dark Triad' of psychopathy, Machiavellianism, and narcissism.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalInternational Journal of Technoethics·DateMar 2, 2017

Research shows exercise is a boon for cancer patients

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology found that exercise alone and psychological interventions significantly reduced cancer-related fatigue. The research analyzed 113 studies involving over 11,000 patients and concluded that exercise is the most effective approach to alleviate this debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateMar 2, 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.

Biochemical 'fossil' shows how life may have emerged without phosphate

Researchers used systems biology approaches to study the emergence of life and found that a few simple compounds could support a phosphate-free metabolism. This discovery challenges the current understanding of life's origin and suggests that an early self-sustaining metabolic network predated the emergence of nucleic acids.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 2, 2017

Plant dominance in the Amazon is shaped by past civilizations

A new study reveals that plants domesticated by pre-Columbian peoples are more likely to dominate Amazonian forests, with 85 species showing significant impacts from past human influence. The research suggests a lasting impact of human activities on plant distribution and could aid in uncovering unidentified areas of past civilization.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Ancient peoples shaped the Amazon rainforest

A new study suggests that ancient peoples domesticated tree species thousands of years ago, which are now more common in mature upland forests. The research found that a quarter of these domesticated species dominate large expanses of forest and are vital for the livelihood and economy of Amazonian peoples.

SourceField Museum·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Cigarette smoke curbs lung's self-healing

Researchers discovered that cigarette smoke silences the lung's natural self-healing process by blocking key receptors. Increasing these receptors can restore repair and lead to increased production of vital proteins, offering new hope for developing therapies for COPD patients.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 2, 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.

Ancient peoples shaped the Amazon rainforest

A new study reveals that pre-Colombian peoples played a significant role in shaping modern-day Amazonian biodiversity. The research found that 85 domesticated tree species, including cacao and Brazil nut, were five times more common in forests near ancient settlements.

SourceNaturalis Biodiversity Center·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Physical therapy proves as effective as surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome

A new study published in JOSPT found that physical therapy achieved results comparable to surgery outcomes for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients treated with physical therapy showed faster improvements and similar benefits at one year following treatment.

SourceJOSPT, Inc. d/b/a Movement Science Media·JournalJournal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy·DateMar 2, 2017

Ecological Society of America announces 2017 award recipients

The Ecological Society of America recognizes Diana Harrison Wall, Kathleen Weathers, and Debra Peters with the Eminent Ecologist Award, Eugene P. Odum Award for Excellence in Ecology Education, and Distinguished Service Citation, respectively, for their outstanding contributions to ecology.

SourceEcological Society of America·DateMar 2, 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.

Cause of killer cardiac disease identified by new method

Researchers have developed a new non-invasive method to identify the origin of atrial fibrillation, a type of abnormal heart rhythm that increases the risk of stroke and other complications. The technique uses 64-lead electrocardiogram signals to pinpoint the location of the irregular heartbeat.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 2, 2017

Most complex nanoparticle crystal ever made by design

Scientists at Northwestern University and University of Michigan report creating the most complex nanoparticle crystal ever made, with potential applications in controlling light, capturing pollutants, and delivering therapeutics. The crystal structure was achieved through a combination of DNA technology and controlled nanoparticle shape.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Saving brain cells from stroke

Researchers discovered a neuroprotective compound that reduces brain cell loss and boosts newborn neurons after stroke. The P7C3-A20 compound improves physical balance, coordination, learning, and memory in rats.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalExperimental Neurology·DateMar 2, 2017
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.

Study finds not all women get appropriate care for cervical cancer

A study found that fewer than three out of five women with locally advanced cervical cancer received guideline-based care, with black and Hispanic women receiving lower rates. Despite an increase in guideline-based care over time, disparities persist, highlighting the need for further investigation into barriers to treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 2, 2017

Horse-riding can improve children's cognitive ability

Recent research published in Frontiers in Public Health found that horseback riding enhances learning and problem-solving skills in children. The study, led by Professor Mitsuaki Ohta, suggests that the vibrations produced by horses during riding activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to improved cognitive performance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateMar 2, 2017

Hand-picked specialty crops 'ripe' for precision agriculture techniques

Researchers have developed a mathematical model to determine the optimal time for transporting strawberry crops, reducing spoilage and increasing market value. The findings suggest that precision agriculture techniques can be applied to high-value fresh produce, motivating growers to explore new opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNatural Resource Modeling·DateMar 2, 2017

Researchers can predict terrorist behaviors with more than 90 percent accuracy

Researchers at Binghamton University developed a Networked Pattern Recognition Framework to analyze patterns in past attacks and predict future behaviors. The framework achieves over 90% accuracy in identifying attack characteristics, extending attacks, multiple attacks, and terrorist goals.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalExpert Systems with Applications·DateMar 2, 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.

Shape-shifting molecular robots respond to DNA signals

Researchers developed a molecular robot that changes shape in response to specific DNA signals, enabling biomimetic robotics and potential medical innovations. The tiny robot, about 1 millionth of a meter in size, consists of protein and DNA molecules.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScience Robotics·DateMar 2, 2017

Taking earth's inner temperature

Researchers at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution suggest the mantle could be 60°C hotter than estimated, affecting tectonic plate movement and ocean basin formation. This finding may help explain the formation of the seafloor and the movement of rigid plates.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Genome editing: Pressing the 'delete' button on DNA

A new software tool, CRISPETa, has been developed to efficiently delete non-coding DNA in living cells using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the genomic basis of disease and may lead to discovery of new disease-causing genes and potential new drugs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 2, 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.

AI system beats humans at the poker table, in complex game

Researchers created an AI system called DeepStack that outperforms human players in heads-up no-limit poker by leveraging asymmetrical information about the game state. The system solves approximately 10^7 decision points in 5 seconds, enabling potential advances in real-world problems involving information asymmetry.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017

Woolly mammoths experienced a genomic meltdown just before extinction

Researchers compared the genomes of a 45,000-year-old mainland mammoth with one from Wrangel Island, which had only 300 animals. The analysis revealed an excess of genetic defects, including loss of olfactory receptors and urinary proteins. This study provides insights into the effects of small population sizes on genome deterioration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 2, 2017

Aging faces could increase security risks

Researchers found that 99% of face images can still be recognized up to six years later, but accuracy drops if images are taken more than six years apart. The study emphasizes the importance of capturing new images every four to five years to reduce false positives.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence·DateMar 2, 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.

Skulls inform biology of predecessors of modern humans in Eastern Eurasia

The discovery of two ancient skulls in central China provides a unique glimpse into the biology of early humans in the region. The skulls, dated to around 100,000 years ago, exhibit a mix of features from different human populations, suggesting regional interconnectedness and population continuity across Eastern Eurasia.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 2, 2017