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Science News for February 22, 2018


Developing reliable quantum computers

A team of researchers has developed a statistical approach to identify characteristic signatures across unmeasurable probability distributions in quantum computers. This breakthrough could help predict the behavior of photons in optical arrangements and differentiate between various particle types, bringing us closer to solving the cer...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 22, 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.

The battle for spinach

Washington State University researchers are working on developing resistant spinach varieties against Fusarium wilt, a devastating disease that has been crippling farmers' crops in the Pacific Northwest. The team is testing over 600 varieties of spinach and studying their DNA to find genetic markers that reveal natural resistance.

SourceWashington State University·DateFeb 22, 2018

New symmetry-breaking method opens way for bioactive compounds

Researchers at EPFL have developed a new desymmetrization strategy to access chiral building blocks containing urea sub-structures. The method uses a non-chiral cyclopropane precursor and an engineered copper catalyst to selectively form the desired enantiomer.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 22, 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.

Extinct lakes of the American desert west

Research reveals two distinct periods of lake existence in the region, with increased precipitation driving formation during warmer periods. The study's findings suggest a potential analogue for future climate change and highlight the importance of understanding El Niño-driven precipitation patterns in arid regions.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Basque researchers turn light upside down

Researchers created a hyperbolic metasurface using boron nitride that produces concave wavefronts with infrared light, revolutionizing the miniaturization of sensing and signal processing devices. The team overcame fabrication challenges to achieve precision structuring on the nanometer scale.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Stiffness matters

Research by Prof. Dr. Prasad Shastri at the University of Freiburg found that cancer cell membrane stiffness affects nanoparticle internalization; increasing stiffness enhances polymer nanoparticle entry through pathways rich in cholesterol.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalSmall·DateFeb 22, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Loops, loops, and more loops: This is how your DNA gets organized

Researchers from Delft University and EMBL Heidelberg witness the formation of DNA loops by a single protein complex called condensin, resolving a heated debate. The process involves condensin reeling in DNA to form loops, which are then extruded to compact the genome.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

UCLA scientists use color-coded tags to discover how heart cells develop

Researchers discovered that most new cardiomyocytes come from cardiac progenitor cells during early embryonic development, but this ability fades as mice mature. The study's findings could lead to methods for regenerating heart tissue after a heart attack.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 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.

Decoding the structure of huntingtin

Scientists have decoded the three-dimensional molecular structure of the healthy human huntingtin protein, enabling its functional analysis. This breakthrough could contribute to the development of new treatments for Huntington's disease.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 2018

Age and gender matter behind the wheel -- but not how you might expect

A UCLA study found that male teens outperform older men in driving skills, while sports participation improves driving abilities among both males and females. The researchers propose expanding safety training to all new drivers, regardless of age or gender, to reduce traffic accidents and save lives.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Causing inflammation to run out of fuel

A study published in Nature Communications found that an oxygen sensor in the body reduces inflammation by activating HIF-1α, which inhibits excessive immune responses. This molecular mechanism could lead to new approaches for treating chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2018

CU scientists' discovery could speed clinical translation of stem cell therapies

Researchers at CU Anschutz have discovered a new approach to reprogramming adult skin cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with unprecedented efficiency. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new corrective stem cell-based therapies for currently incurable diseases like Epidermolysis Bullosa.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 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.

Neanderthals thought like we do

Researchers used Uranium-Thorium dating to determine the age of cave art in Spain, finding it was created by Neanderthals over 64,000 years ago, predating modern human arrival in Europe. This discovery suggests that Neanderthals shared symbolic thinking and cognitive abilities with early Homo sapiens.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Seasonal patterns in the Amazon explained

Researchers combined fieldwork and computational models with satellite images to shed light on seasonal patterns in the Amazon. They found that biological processes, such as leaf growth and shedding, are more complex than previously thought, influencing canopy greenness.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 22, 2018

A look at the space between mouse brain cells

Researchers have developed a new imaging paradigm to study the extracellular space between brain cells, revealing its complex and dynamic nature. The technique, called SUSHI, provides high-quality 3D reconstructions of brain tissue and has the potential to improve drug delivery within the brain.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

UBC engineers advance the capability of wearable tech

Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus create ultra-stretchable sensor with high sensitivity and durability, suitable for monitoring muscle movement, heart rate, and other bio-signals. The device is capable of sensing and understanding complex human motion, including infinitesimal movements like a heartbeat or finger twitch.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·DateFeb 22, 2018

New mutant coral symbiont alga able to switch symbiosis off

Researchers at Tohoku University have identified a new mutant coral symbiont alga that enables the control of symbiotic relationships with its host. The discovery provides a powerful tool for studying coral-algal endosymbiosis and sheds light on mechanisms for maintaining stable symbiosis.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2018

Promising treatment for Ebola to be tested at Texas Biomed

Scientists at Texas Biomedical Research Institute are set to test the experimental Ebola treatment ZMapp, which showed a 91% probability of preventing mortality in a previous study. The trial is part of a $2 million contract with Mapp Biopharmaceutical, Inc. and aims to determine the effectiveness of the therapy.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Are older adults with knee pain less active than the general population?

A new study found moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels are similarly low in older adults with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and those from the general population without osteoarthritis or knee pain. The findings highlight the need for efforts to increase physical activity for all.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 22, 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.

New insights on the neurobiology of dying

A new Annals of Neurology study investigated the mechanisms and timing of events in the brain and circulation during the dying process. The findings suggest that spreading depolarization marks the loss of stored energy in brain cells, leading to death, but also highlight its reversibility with restored circulation.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Metabolic modelling becomes three-dimensional

Researchers have developed the first three-dimensional computer model to represent human metabolic processes. This new tool, Recon3D, integrates structural data on over 4,000 metabolites and nearly 13,000 proteins, allowing for more accurate simulations of metabolic reactions and better understanding of diseases such as Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 22, 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.

Toenail fungus gives up sex to infect human hosts

Scientists found that Trichophyton rubrum nearly all belong to a single mating type and refuse to mate with others, even under various conditions. The fungus's high clonality may limit its ability to adapt, making it more susceptible to new antifungal medications.

SourceDuke University·JournalGenetics·DateFeb 22, 2018

Artificial intelligence can diagnose and triage retinal diseases

A new AI platform can diagnose two common retinal diseases and rate their severity with over 95% accuracy, as well as distinguish between viral and bacterial pneumonia. This technology has the potential to improve patient outcomes and increase access to care in remote areas.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateFeb 22, 2018

Researchers develop new technology platform for cancer immunotherapy

The researchers developed a new class of bifunctional immunotherapeutic agents called Y-traps, which can target and disable multiple immune suppressive molecules. These Y-traps were found to be effective in inhibiting tumor growth and activating antitumor immunity, even against cancers that do not respond to existing immunotherapies.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2018

When every fish counts

A study published in Conservation Genetics found that about a third of fish samples were misidentified as native delta smelt when using visual identification. Genetic analysis revealed 27% of the fish thought to be native delta smelt were actually non-native wakasagi.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalConservation Genetics·DateFeb 22, 2018
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Quantum recurrence: Everything goes back to the way it was

Researchers at TU Wien demonstrate Poincaré recurrence in a multi-particle quantum system, studying collective quantities such as coherence lengths and correlation functions. This breakthrough reveals the long-sought phenomenon of quantum recurrence, where systems return to their initial state over time.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Pregnant women with hypertension can safely monitor their blood pressure at home

A new study published in Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that pregnant women with hypertension can safely monitor their blood pressure at home using a validated machine. The study of 108 women showed no differences in adverse maternal, fetal, or neonatal outcomes compared to those monitored in a clinic.

SourceWiley·JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Women who suffer with SCAD may fare better with conservative care

A new scientific statement by a Mayo Clinic led team suggests that conservative treatment may be more effective for women with SCAD. The average age of women with SCAD ranges from 45 to 53 years, and it is the No. 1 cause of heart attack during pregnancy and in the period right after giving birth.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 22, 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.

Analysis finds lower IQ in children with chronic kidney disease

An analysis of published studies found that children with CKD had lower intellectual functioning compared to children in the general population, particularly those on dialysis. Deficits were evident for attention, memory, and executive function domains.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Newly designed molecule binds nitrogen

A newly designed borylene molecule has been found to bind nitrogen at room temperature and normal air pressure, surpassing the capabilities of traditional catalysts like iron and molybdenum. This breakthrough may pave the way for a more energy-efficient method to convert nitrogen into ammonia.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Horse domestication revisited: Botai horses did not sire today's steeds

A genomic study of ancient and modern horses reveals that the Botai horses, who lived on Central Asian steppes 5,500 years ago, did not contribute to the modern domesticated horse population. However, seven Przewalski's horses, an endangered feral group, show a connection to the original Botai group.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

New neurons in the adult brain are involved in sensory learning

Researchers found that adult-born neurons react to reward-related stimuli, speeding up the connection between sensory information and reward. This discovery suggests that adult neurogenesis plays a crucial role in associative learning processes.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2018

Moths in mud can uncover prehistoric secrets

Researchers have developed a new technique to study lake sediments, using moth scales to identify past and future insect outbreaks. This discovery can help improve knowledge of insect impact on forests, predictability, and links to climate change.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateFeb 22, 2018

Scottish hospitals see slower decline in deaths

Researchers found that Scottish hospitals experienced a slower reduction in inpatient deaths, with 0.3% of patients dying in elective admissions and 6% in emergency admissions, compared to 0.1% and 4% in England. The study's authors call for further investigation into the reasons behind these differences.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

C-sections and gut bacteria increase risk of childhood obesity

A new study found that C-section deliveries and changes in gut bacteria increase the risk of childhood obesity. Overweight mothers who gave birth via C-section had children who were three times more likely to be overweight or obese by age three.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 22, 2018

Tracking dormant malaria

MIT researchers successfully grow dormant malaria parasites in engineered human liver tissue, allowing them to study the parasite's biology and vulnerabilities. The team also sequenced the parasite's RNA transcriptome, paving the way for new antimalarial drugs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 22, 2018

Gene expression study may help guide Arthritis care

Researchers identified distinct patterns in gene expression in synovial tissue samples, revealing differences in pain mechanisms among rheumatoid arthritis patients. These findings may help clinicians develop targeted treatment strategies for patients with minimal inflammation but high disease activity scores.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateFeb 22, 2018

The global footprint of fisheries

A team of scientists from UCSB and Global Fishing Watch analyzed satellite data to track the movements and activities of over 70,000 commercial fishing vessels worldwide. Their findings reveal that cultural patterns and politics play a significant role in shaping fishing practices, while natural cycles such as fish migrations are less ...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 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.

Adherence to sleep apnea treatment affects risk of hospital readmission

A study of patients with obstructive sleep apnea found that non-adherent patients were three times more likely to be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days for any cause. Non-adherence to CPAP therapy is a significant risk factor for hospital readmissions, particularly cardiovascular events.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

New insight into how magma feeds volcanic eruptions

Researchers created a scaled-down model of an active volcanic plumbing system to study magma flow through dykes. The novel experimental setup revealed the simultaneous measurement of fluid flow, sub-surface deformation during magma ascent, challenging existing thinking on magma flow.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·DateFeb 22, 2018

How the 'I approve' tagline boosts nasty political ads

Researchers found that adding the tagline to policy-based attack ads makes them more believable and gives voters a more positive view of the candidate who endorses it. The effect is substantial, with partisanship having a comparable impact.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 22, 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.

Less expensive, post-acute care options for seniors underutilized

A study by UT Southwestern researchers found that only half of older adults are transferred to long-term acute care (LTAC) facilities due to illness severity or complexity. Many others are sent based on hospital preferences and regional trends, potentially leaving them eligible for less expensive post-acute care settings.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2018

Gut microbes protect against sepsis: Mouse study

Researchers discovered that gut bacteria stimulate serum IgA responses that offer protection against bacterial sepsis. The study found mice with Proteobacteria-rich microbiota survived longer after sepsis, while those without IgA antibodies died quickly.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 22, 2018

Neanderthals were artistic like modern humans, study indicates

Scientists have discovered the first major evidence that Neanderthals created the world's oldest known cave paintings, dating back over 64,000 years. The findings suggest that Neanderthals had an artistic sense similar to that of modern humans and were capable of symbolic thinking.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Infants are able to learn abstract rules visually

Researchers at Northwestern University found that infants as young as 3 months old can detect and generalize visual patterns, solving a puzzle about their cognitive abilities. The study demonstrates that infants are capable of learning abstract rules visually, indicating an early origin in infancy.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Phase I clinical trial shows some promise for investigational drug for melanoma

A phase I clinical trial has shown some promise for an investigational compound designed to block a hyperactive cell growth signal in advanced melanoma and other cancers. Three patients experienced partial responses to the treatment, similar to response rates seen with other treatments such as MEK inhibitors.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJCI Insight·DateFeb 22, 2018

Kids with chronic kidney disease have lower IQs and poorer educational outcomes

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience deficits in academic skills, visual and verbal memory, and executive function, according to a new study. The analysis of 34 studies found that CKD patients have an average IQ 10 points lower than healthy children, with those on dialysis showing an even greater decline.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Fertility breakthrough: New research could extend egg health with age

Researchers at Princeton University have identified a drug that can extend egg viability in worms, which could theoretically increase women's reproductive lifespan. The study suggests that the drug could help slow age-related decline in egg quality and potentially extend fertility by three to six years.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 22, 2018

How spacecraft testing enabled bone marrow research

The development of freezing techniques for bone marrow, pioneered by NASA engineer Tom Williams, has revolutionized transplant medicine. The technique allows donor marrow to be transported over long distances without cell death.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 22, 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.

Rare first moment of stellar explosion captured by amateur astronomer

A team of researchers validated theoretical predictions about the initial evolution of stellar explosions using data from a rare supernova captured by an amateur astronomer. The study found that the rapid brightening rate and low luminosity of SN 2016gkg supported models predicting shock emergence during the explosion.

SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 2018

Low-calorie diet enhances intestinal regeneration after injury

A low-calorie diet has been shown to enhance intestinal regeneration after injury in mice, with reserve stem cells playing a key role. The study found that calorie restriction expanded reserve stem cells five-fold and improved their ability to regenerate tissue, implicating them as critical players in this process.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 22, 2018

Finnish research group discovers a new immune system regulator

A new regulator of the immune system has been identified by a Finnish research group, with potential implications for treating both cancer and immune-mediated diseases. HIC1 protein controls the expression of genes contributing to T cell function and regulates immune response.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Can surgery and anaesthesia affect memory?

A study of 312 participants who had surgery and 652 participants who did not found that surgery was associated with a decline in immediate memory by one point out of 30 possible test scores. Additionally, reduced working memory decline was linked to longer cumulative operations.

SourceWiley·JournalAnaesthesia·DateFeb 22, 2018

Study debunks claim that medical marijuana laws increase recreational pot use for US teens

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found no significant change in adolescent recreational marijuana use following enactment of medical marijuana laws. The study analyzed data from four large-scale US surveys and concluded that medical marijuana laws do not increase recreational pot use among teens.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAddiction·DateFeb 22, 2018

Invasion of the body-snatching fungus

Researchers have documented a strange relationship between periodical cicadas and a fungus called Massospora cicadina that hijacks their behavior and causes them to spread the fungus' spores. The infected cicadas exhibit unusual behaviors, such as wing flicking and attempting to mate with uninfected females.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Study in mice suggests personalized stem cell treatment may offer relief for MS

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have shown that skin cells re-programmed into brain stem cells can help reduce inflammation and repair damage caused by multiple sclerosis. The study suggests that using a patient's own skin cells could provide a personalized route to treating chronic inflammatory diseases like MS.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 22, 2018

Imaging individual flexible DNA 'building blocks' in 3-D

Berkeley Lab researchers generate 3-D images of 129 DNA structures, revealing the dynamics and flexibility of DNA origami particles. The method used provides a new strategy for improving control over large DNA scaffolds by redesigning DNA sequences near joints to stiffen the structure.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2018

New strategy to target transcription factor STAT5 to combat leukaemia

Researchers have developed a novel compound targeting STAT5, which selectively disrupts its activation and gene transcription, impairing AML cell proliferation. The compound showed efficacy in patient-derived AML cell lines and freshly isolated patient samples, indicating its potential as a new treatment option for leukemia.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalLeukemia·DateFeb 22, 2018

Digestive ability of ancient insects could boost biofuel development

A study of ancient insects has provided new insights into future biofuel production. The firebrats' unique digestive system has revealed the presence of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), a new class of enzyme that efficiently digests cellulose. This discovery could lead to the development of sustainable low-carbon fuels.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Stagnation in the South Pacific

A team of researchers discovered that changes in the Antarctic Ocean facilitated long-term storage of carbon dioxide during the last ice age. The study suggests that as the climate warmed, this stored carbon was released, contributing to global warming.

SourceAlfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Smartphone app may help reduce hospital readmissions after heart attack

A new smartphone app called 'Corrie' has been designed to help patients navigate the hospital discharge process and transition to home after a heart attack. The app allows patients to track medications, follow-up appointments, and lifestyle changes, resulting in a lower readmission rate compared to standard care.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateFeb 22, 2018

New partnership aids sustainable growth with Earth observations

The partnership aims to develop decision-making tools based on satellite observations of Earth, which can be used worldwide. Conservation International is working with governments and stakeholders to implement policies that preserve natural resources along the Mekong River.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 22, 2018

Study finds racial differences in cure rates for Hepatitis C

A recent study published in Pharmacology Research & Perspectives reveals racial disparities in Hepatitis C cure rates among patients receiving optimal therapies. The findings show lower cure rates for African American individuals compared to White individuals, highlighting the need for further exploration of underlying causes.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateFeb 22, 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.

Surprising new study redraws family tree of domesticated and 'wild' horses

A new study has found that Przewalski's horses are not the last wild horse species, but rather feral, descended from the earliest-known instance of horse domestication by the Botai people in northern Kazakhstan. The research also reveals that modern domesticated horses did not descend from these early domesticated horses.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Drier conditions could doom Rocky Mountain spruce and fir trees

Climate warming is taking a toll on forest health in subalpine regions of Colorado's Front Range, hindering the establishment of spruce and fir trees. The study found that only three years out of 40 have been conducive to seedling establishment, compared to seven favorable years during the prior 40.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEcology·DateFeb 22, 2018
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.

Shedding a tear may help diagnose Parkinson's disease

Researchers discovered that levels of alpha-synuclein protein are decreased in people with Parkinson's disease, while levels of oligomeric alpha-synuclein are increased. This finding suggests that tears could be a reliable biological marker for the disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 22, 2018

With cost removed, women choose more effective contraceptive methods

A new study at the University of Utah Health found that removing cost obstacles allows women to access more effective contraceptive methods. The HER Salt Lake Contraceptive Initiative made all forms of contraception available, and participants could change methods at any time in the study, free of charge.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 22, 2018

An under-the-radar immune cell shows potential in fight against cancer

ILC2 cells play a crucial role in preventing or slowing metastasis in lung and prostate cancer by unleashing the killing power of T-cells. Researchers have concluded that ILC2 cells may be a potent weapon in stopping cancer from spreading, offering potential treatment for blood-borne and solid tumours.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2018

Interneuron migration impairement could lead to macrocephaly

A team from the University of Liège has discovered a new crosstalk between the migrating inhibitory interneurons and the stem cells that generate the excitatory neurons. This control regulates the production of excitatory neurons, leading to cortical malformation previously associated with autism in mice.

SourceUniversity of Liège·JournalCell·DateFeb 22, 2018
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Younger age at diabetes diagnosis is linked to higher risk of

A new study published in Diabetologia found that the earlier a person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the higher their risk of death from heart disease and stroke. However, an earlier diagnosis was also associated with lower mortality rates due to cancer.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateFeb 22, 2018

Antidepressant response within hours? Experts weigh evidence on ketamine as fast-acting treatment for depression in Harvard Review of Psychiatry

Recent studies suggest ketamine's potential to rapidly treat severe depression. Ketamine has produced initial reductions in depressive symptoms within two hours, with peak effects at 24 hours. This could represent a paradigm shift in treating major depressive disorder and bipolar depression.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateFeb 22, 2018

Animal diversity improves reproducibility of pre-clinical research

Researchers found that using more diverse study samples can significantly improve the reproducibility of experimental results in pre-clinical animal research. By combining data from multiple studies, they showed that multi-laboratory studies produce more consistent results than single-laboratory studies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 22, 2018

NEJM reports positive results for larotrectinib against TRK-fusion cancer

In three clinical trials, larotrectinib demonstrated a 75% overall response rate in patients with TRK fusion genes, with 86% continuing treatment or undergoing curative surgery. This study marks a new paradigm in cancer drug development, defining cancers by molecular changes rather than site of occurrence.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2018

The building of innovation

The Lehigh University team is building a new High Pressure Spatial chemical vapor deposition (HPS-CVD) reactor to create new materials with extreme conditions. The device will enable the growth of III-nitride and oxynitride semiconductors, paving the way for sustainable energy solutions and innovative technologies.

SourceLehigh University·DateFeb 22, 2018

How bats carry viruses without getting sick

Researchers found that bats have a dampened STING-interferon pathway, allowing them to maintain a balance with viruses without triggering an immune reaction. This defense strategy is thought to have evolved as part of bat biology, including their ability to fly and host a large viral reservoir.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateFeb 22, 2018

Histology in 3-D: New staining method enables Nano-CT imaging of tissue samples

A new staining method allows specialists to investigate three-dimensional tissue samples using the Nano-CT system, delivering resolutions of up to 100 nanometers. The technique is time-efficient and compatible with conventional methods, enabling enhanced insights into tissue distribution and microscopic origins of diseases.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2018

Beetroot juice supplements may help certain heart failure patients

A new study found that beetroot juice supplements significantly increased exercise duration, peak power, and peak oxygen uptake in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction. The findings suggest that dietary nitrate supplementation may be a valuable addition to treatment for exercise intolerance in these patients.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·DateFeb 22, 2018

UT Dallas scientists isolate cancer stem cells using novel method

Researchers at UT Dallas have isolated cancer stem cells using a two-step process, marking a significant step toward developing new drugs that can target these cells. The technique uses ligands that selectively bind to breast cancer stem cells, allowing for their isolation from standard breast cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateFeb 22, 2018

Archaeology: Pots, people and knowledge transfer

The diffusion of bell beakers in continental Europe was driven by the dissemination of ideas rather than migration, according to a recent genetic study. This finding refutes the long-accepted theory that the spread of cultural elements was associated with significant migrant movements.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature·DateFeb 22, 2018

A promising new drug to combat serious inflammatory disease

A new drug has shown encouraging safety and efficacy in treating Still's disease, a serious orphan condition. The treatment, which blocks the action of an inflammation factor, has been tested on 23 patients with refractory forms of the disease, resulting in positive responses and significant symptom reduction.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateFeb 22, 2018

With computation, researchers identify promising solid oxide fuel cell materials

A team of University of Wisconsin-Madison engineers has discovered new materials that could enable solid oxide fuel cells to operate at lower temperatures, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. The researchers used quantum mechanics-based computational techniques to screen over 2,000 candidate materials, yielding a list of 52 poten...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 22, 2018

Unsaddling old theory on origin of horses

A study of 20 ancient horses found they are direct ancestors of Przewalski's horses, contrary to previous thought. Their return to a wild state led to changes such as the loss of leopard spotting and night blindness.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

UCF-led consortium to manage Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico

A UCF-led consortium will take over management of the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico, with plans to expand its capabilities and provide new research opportunities. The partnership aims to create a pipeline for students studying space sciences and enhance public outreach through formal education.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateFeb 22, 2018

Sandhoff disease study shows proof of principle for gene therapy

Researchers found that disruption of ganglioside enzyme leads to cell overgrowth in Sandhoff disease organoids, mimicking large brains of patients. Gene therapy approach was successful in improving size and reducing ganglioside accumulation after treatment.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateFeb 22, 2018

Putting black skin cancer to sleep -- for good

A team of international researchers has successfully stopped the growth of malignant melanoma by targeting epigenetic marks on DNA. By blocking enzymes responsible for erasing these marks, they reactivate a natural protective mechanism called cellular senescence, which prevents mutated cells from dividing and forming tumors.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 22, 2018

More than half the world's ocean are commercially fished

A new study reveals that industrial fishing activities cover more than 55% of the world's oceans, with global hot spots in the northeast Atlantic and northwest Pacific. The majority of observed fishing efforts come from five countries, including China, Spain, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2018

Disease-bearing mosquitoes gain from shrinkage of green spaces

A study in São Paulo found that mosquitoes that transmit diseases are adapting to urban environments, thriving in smaller green spaces where other species disappear. The research highlights the need for further study on how habitat loss affects vector insects and disease transmission.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 22, 2018

Few Chicagoland wetlands left without non-native species, study finds

A new study finds that over 99% of Chicagoland wetlands are home to non-native plant species, with reed canary grass dominating many sites. The research highlights the importance of considering ecosystem function and functional values in restoration efforts in urban areas.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalUrban Ecosystems·DateFeb 22, 2018

Color of judo uniform has no effect on winning

A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that judo athletes who wear a white uniform have an advantage in winning, regardless of the color of their opponent's uniform. The researchers analyzed extensive data from judo competitions and found no effect of uniform color on winning.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Distinguishing males from females among king penguins

A new study reveals that King Penguins can be distinguished from females by analyzing their sex-specific syllable patterns, achieving an accuracy of 100%. The technique also shows promise for accurately identifying individuals using only beak length, with a success rate of 79%.

SourceWiley·JournalIbis·DateFeb 22, 2018

Do pain medications carry different heart risks?

A Taiwanese database study of 55,629 patients with hypertension found no significant difference in cardiovascular risk between cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme selective NSAIDs and nonselective NSAIDs. Most commonly used NSAIDs have similar cardiovascular safety profiles under low-to-moderate daily doses and short-term treatment periods.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateFeb 22, 2018

Looking for the origins of schizophrenia

Researchers found that neural cells from schizophrenic patients produce less pro-angiogenic molecules and more anti-angiogenic proteins, impairing blood vessel formation. The study provides new insights into the causes of schizophrenia and potential therapeutic solutions.

SourceD'Or Institute for Research and Education·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateFeb 22, 2018

As pediatric use of iNO increased, mortality rates dropped

The use of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) among pediatric patients increased between 2005 and 2015, with a corresponding decrease in mortality rates. The median adjusted cost per admission was $158,740, but increasing off-label use of iNO is associated with decreased mortality, longer hospital stays, and higher costs.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateFeb 22, 2018