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Science News for February 2, 2018


Building miniature optical antennas using DNA as a guide

Aalto University researchers have developed a new method called DALI (DNA-assisted lithography) to fabricate precise metallic nanostructures with designed plasmonic properties. The technique uses self-assembled DNA origami shapes as 'stencils' to create millions of fully metallic nanostructures. These structures have intriguing optical...

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

Army researchers develop new algorithms to train robots

Researchers at U.S. Army Research Laboratory and University of Texas at Austin developed a new algorithm called Deep TAMER to train robots using human feedback. The algorithm enables robots to learn tasks in a short amount of time with accurate critique, improving performance on complex tasks like Atari Bowling.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateFeb 2, 2018

Quantum algorithm could help AI think faster

Researchers have developed a quantum linear system algorithm that enables faster analysis of large data sets, outperforming classical computers. The new algorithm has the potential to revolutionize fields like commodities pricing, social networks, and chemical structures.

SourceCentre for Quantum Technologies at the National University of Singapore·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Compounds derived from hops show promise for metabolic syndrome patients

Researchers at Oregon State University discovered that compounds derived from hops can improve glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and sensitivity to leptin in people with metabolic syndrome. The findings suggest that these compounds may be a promising treatment option for the condition.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2018

Fruit fly hunger games: Taste neurons in control

A team of neuroscientists has discovered that specific taste neurons located in the fruit fly's proboscis are responsible for its protein craving. The study, published in eLife, identifies two groups of neurons that regulate the fly's feeding behavior.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·DateFeb 2, 2018

Algorithm identifies vulnerable people during natural disasters

A new algorithm developed at the University of Waterloo will help first responders and home care providers identify elderly individuals who are most vulnerable during natural disasters. The algorithm uses data from interRAI's home care assessment to generate an up-to-date list of those who may need assistance.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Emergency Management·DateFeb 2, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Lobachevsky University scientists synthesize a new compound with anti-tumor properties

Researchers at Lobachevsky University have synthesized a multifunctional compound with anti-tumor properties, achieved through the combination of a photoactive organic dye, biological vector, linker, and hydrophilizing fragments. The new compound selectively accumulates in tumor tissues due to its ability to bind to growth factor recep...

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateFeb 2, 2018

Cause of severe genetic disease identified

Mutations in p63 protein lead to severe genetic disease AEC syndrome, which resembles Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or ALS more closely than other syndromes. The research lays groundwork for causal therapies by showing that protein aggregates underlie the disorder.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2018
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Genome wide association study of epigenetic aging rates in blood reveals a critical role for TERT

Researchers analyzed blood samples from nearly 10,000 people and found gene variants associated with intrinsic and extrinsic epigenetic age acceleration. Variants in the TERT gene were linked to older epigenetic aging rates and longer telomeres, highlighting its critical role in regulating the epigenetic clock.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

Solving the puzzle of multicellularity

A Wits University PhD student has solved part of the evolutionary puzzle of multicellularity by studying the genomic sequence of a four-celled algae. The research identified the ubiquitin proteasomal pathway as a process controlling cell division, which played a key role in the evolution of multicellularity.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Measuring the temperature of two-dimensional materials at the atomic level

Scientists developed a new technique to precisely measure the temperature and behavior of two-dimensional materials, enabling the design of smaller and faster microprocessors. They used scanning transmission electron microscopy combined with spectroscopy to measure the temperature at the atomic level.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 2, 2018

New technology: Edible QR code can be the medicine of the future

Researchers at University of Copenhagen develop edible QR code technology that enables precise dosing and storage of medical data, reducing wrong medication and fake medicine. The technology has the potential to transform the pharmaceutical supply chain and enable innovative production of personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateFeb 2, 2018

Genetic factors that make babies susceptible to complications from Zika are identified

Researchers found that genes in neural progenitor cells of affected babies were more active or less active in key signaling pathways, contributing to the development of congenital Zika syndrome. The study used twins and induced pluripotent stem cell technology to replicate the virus's effects in vitro.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Holding on to patriarchy-reinforcing beliefs comes at a price

A recent study found that men who endorse male dominance tend to view women as either chaste and good or promiscuous and bad, leading to objectification and restricted sexuality. This reinforces gender inequality and negatively affects both men and women's well-being.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateFeb 2, 2018

Can your brain testify against you?

A review explores the applications of neuroscience in law, highlighting the need for clear guidelines to balance potential benefits with civil liberties. The use of neuroscientific evidence raises concerns about individual rights and privacy, particularly in determining guilt and intent.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2018
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 controls scale quantum chips

Engineers at Rigetti Computing have developed a technique to reduce qubit interference, allowing for the creation of larger practical quantum processors. This breakthrough enables the retention of logical operations independent of the state of a large quantum register.

SourceRigetti Computing·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

It sounds like music to my ... brain!

A new study at D'Or Institute for Research and Education uses Magnetic Resonance machine to read participants' minds and identify the song they're listening to. The computer achieves 85% accuracy in identifying the correct song, paving the way for future research on brain decoding and communication.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2018

Scientists call for global and local control and management of mercury

Mercury is a toxic contaminant with significant health risks to humans and wildlife, primarily through methylmercury in fish consumption. The international treaty on mercury, the Minamata Convention, has been ratified by 84 nations, emphasizing the need for scientific understanding to inform policy decisions.

SourceSpringer·JournalAMBIO·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Monitoring positive charges in solar materials

Scientists successfully detected holes and identified their trapping sites after photoexcitation, revealing that photo-excited holes become trapped in substrate at singly charged oxygen vacancies. The detection opens up new insights for the development of devices and nanodevices based on transition metal oxides.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

Illinois researchers develop new surface design inspired by snake skin

Researchers have created a new surface design featuring rigid scales assembled into soft, ferromagnetic micropillars on a flexible substrate. The nanostructured silicon scales enable fluid and light manipulation, with tunable wetting, droplet manipulation, and structural coloration demonstrated.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalSmall·DateFeb 2, 2018

NASA's newly rediscovered IMAGE mission provided key aurora research

The IMAGE mission used novel techniques like energetic neutral atom imaging to render the invisible visible, capturing large-scale images of the surrounding plasma and revealing new discoveries about Earth's magnetosphere and plasmasphere. This groundbreaking research continues to guide science today.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2018

Radiocarbon dating reveals mass grave did date to the Viking age

A mass grave uncovered in Repton, Derbyshire, has been dated to the late 9th century, consistent with the Viking Great Army's presence in England. The graves contain a mix of men and women, including several with signs of violent injury, suggesting a possible ritual burial site.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAntiquity·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Analyzing street drugs points to potential early warning system in opioid crisis

A new study suggests that analyzing street drugs can serve as an early warning system for the opioid crisis. The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health has developed a method to quickly analyze stamp bags, which contain mixtures of illicit drugs, to detect fentanyl and other high-lethality substances.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalPublic Health Reports·DateFeb 2, 2018

Scientists present new long-term ecological research

Researchers from NSF LTER sites present findings on coastal and ocean ecosystems, including salt marsh resilience and the impact of sea ice patterns on penguin populations. The study also investigates the diet of blue whales in the California Current and the effects of El Niño events on marine ecosystems.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateFeb 2, 2018

Cheetahs' inner ear is one-of-a-kind, vital to high-speed hunting

Researchers have discovered that modern cheetahs possess a distinct vestibular system in their inner ear, which enhances sensitivity and rapid responses to head motions. This unique anatomy allows the cheetah to maintain its gaze locked on prey during high-speed hunts.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Popular, common allergy medication may prevent neuromyelitis optica relapses

Researchers found that adding cetirizine to standard therapy significantly reduced annualized relapse rates in patients with neuromyelitis optica, a rare disease causing inflammation and demyelination. The study suggests that cetirizine may be beneficial in preventing relapses by modulating eosinophil activity.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 2, 2018

Cutting off tumor supplies

Researchers identified TNF-alpha and VEGF as key cytokines in tumor vascularization. Targeting these molecules simultaneously could significantly increase the efficacy of existing cancer treatments.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

Bacteria play critical role in driving colon cancers

Researchers found that Bacteroides fragilis and Escherichia coli bacteria work together to create a microenvironment that induces chronic inflammation and DNA damage, supporting tumor formation. This discovery could lead to more effective screening and prevention strategies for colon cancer.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 2, 2018

In wine, there's health: Low levels of alcohol good for the brain

A new study published in Scientific Reports suggests that low doses of alcohol may be beneficial for brain health, reducing inflammation and improving the brain's ability to remove waste. This finding adds to growing research linking lower levels of drinking with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Language matters in end-of-life conversations

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing article highlights the importance of carefully using language when discussing end-of-life futility with patients and families. Clear communication can alleviate suffering and provide comfort during a challenging time.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalPerspectives in Biology and Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2018

NASA measured rainfall from Fehi's remnants in New Zealand

NASA and Japan's GPM core satellite tracked heavy rainfall from Tropical Cyclone Fehi's remnants in New Zealand. Rainfall rates exceeded 268 mm/h, with some areas experiencing intense storms that dropped over 10 inches of rain in just 12 hours.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2018

Nano-switches in the cell

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism by which mitochondria regulate protein synthesis in response to oxidative stress. Using quantitative mass spectrometry and biochemical methods, the team identified redox-active thiols that can slow down cellular protein synthesis machinery when reactive oxygen species are present.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

New research on why GPs quit patient care

A recent study by University of Exeter researchers has identified three main themes influencing GPs' decisions to leave or remain in direct patient care. The findings highlight concerns about the under-value of general practice within the healthcare system, professional risk in delivering care, and considerations about career options.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 2, 2018

We view ourselves and those we care about through 'rose-tinted glasses', study says

A new study from City, University of London, University of Oxford, and Yale University shows that people exhibit an 'optimism bias' when learning about others, with stronger vicarious optimism for those they care about. This bias affects how much people change their beliefs after receiving good or bad news.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalPsychological Science·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

UH engineer wins Welch Foundation's 2018 Hackerman Award

Associate Professor Jeffrey Rimer received the award for his pioneering research on crystallization, including the discovery of a natural fruit extract that can dissolve calcium oxalate crystals. His work has transformative implications for drug development and has led to human clinical trials underway.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 2, 2018

An unbiased approach for sifting through big data

Researchers developed a novel probabilistic approach to mine big data, enabling the creation of an 'Optimal Information Network' (OIN) for assessing health outcomes in U.S. cities. The OIN identified poor and favorable health metrics, with some cities showing high variability over time.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Revealing the hidden path of perovskite formation

Researchers at EPFL have developed a systematic understanding of sequential deposition reaction for metal halide perovskite formation. The study used X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and cross-sectional photo-luminescence mapping to investigate the crystallization of lead iodide and perovskite film formation.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

Researchers identify gene largely accounting for 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome

Scientists have identified the OTUD7A gene as a key contributor to the clinical characteristics of 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome, a complex neurological condition. The study found that mice deficient in the gene Otud7a have fewer dendritic spines, which may be related to the neurological deficits observed in patients.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 2, 2018