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Science News for February 27, 2018


Are varicose veins associated with increased risk of blood clot?

Researchers found a potential link between varicose veins and deep venous thrombosis, but more research is needed to confirm the association. The study also suggests that varicose veins may be associated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease and pulmonary embolism.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 27, 2018

Novel genome platform reveals new HIV targets

Researchers developed a high-throughput imaging-based approach to investigate protein stability, identifying previously unknown human proteins targeted by HIV. The platform has broad applications in diseases such as Alzheimer's, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 27, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists link genes to brain anatomy in autism

Scientists have discovered genes linked to individual differences in brain anatomy in autistic children, with variation in cortex thickness and gene activity involved. The study provides the first evidence linking differences in the autistic brain to specific genes with atypical gene activity.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 27, 2018

A bacterium that attacks burn victims will soon be unarmed

Researchers discovered that Pseudomonas aeruginosa rapidly overexpresses genes coding for proteins capturing host's iron and uses lactate, lipids, and collagen as nutrients. This knowledge opens the way to develop innovative treatments to counter its strategies.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateFeb 27, 2018

Unpacking asymmetric cell division

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School investigated the role of phosphatidylinositol lipids and proteins in asymmetric cell division, a process vital for producing mature brain cells. They discovered a new protein called Vibrator, which plays a key role in this complex process.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·DateFeb 27, 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.

When do aging brown dwarfs sweep the clouds away?

Brown dwarfs, larger cousins of giant planets, undergo atmospheric changes as they age and cool. Astronomers measured the temperature at which this shift happens in young brown dwarfs, finding it occurs around 1,150 degrees kelvin for objects 150 million years old.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 27, 2018

Axons grip and slip their way around the brain

Researchers find that L1-CAM grips and slips on laminin to steer axons to their final destination. Disruption of this system leads to CRASH syndrome, a brain disorder characterized by neural disabilities.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 27, 2018

Simulating molecular spectroscopy with circuit quantum electrodynamics

A team of researchers has demonstrated a proof-of-principle experimental demonstration on simulating molecular vibronic spectra using a 3D circuit quantum electrodynamics system. The simulator can model different molecules and obtain temporal correlation functions, electronic-vibronic coupling strength, and spectra of both equilibrium ...

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateFeb 27, 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.

To build up mussels, you need to know your fish

A new study by Michigan State University reveals that conserving mussels is linked to protecting their host fish species. The research found that different mussel varieties are tied to specific fish hosts and prioritize conservation efforts must protect both. This understanding will inform the development of effective conservation stra...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHydrobiologia·DateFeb 27, 2018

Study reveals Milky Way stars being evicted by invading galaxies

A team of astronomers discovered that some stars in the Galactic halo are former residents of the Galactic disk, kicked out by invading dwarf galaxies. This finding confirms a new understanding of the Milky Way's history and future, revealing a complex interplay between galaxy interactions.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 2018

Survey shows Democrats and Republicans agree on Congress

A recent survey by NORC at the University of Chicago found that Democrats and Republicans are in agreement on how Congress should operate. Americans overwhelmingly believe that lawmakers should prioritize the general public's opinions over those of wealthy donors, political party leaders, or the president. Key findings include a majori...

SourceNORC at the University of Chicago·DateFeb 27, 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.

Our reactions to odor reveal our political attitudes

Researchers found a strong connection between supporting a society led by an authoritarian leader and being sensitive to body odours. The study suggests that disgust plays a role in shaping ideological attitudes, with people who are more disgusted being more likely to vote for authoritarian candidates.

SourceStockholm University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 27, 2018

Quantum optics: Attosecond pulses break into atomic interior

Researchers at the Laboratory for Attosecond Physics have successfully observed non-linear interaction of an attosecond pulse with electrons in one of the inner orbital shells around the atomic nucleus. This breakthrough was made possible by the development of a novel source of attosecond pulses.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalOptica·DateFeb 27, 2018

Scientists monitor crop photosynthesis, performance using invisible light

Researchers deployed 12-foot metal poles with sensors to capture sun-induced fluorescence, allowing them to rapidly monitor crop photosynthetic performance. This technology has the potential to transform phenotyping into an efficient, automated process.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateFeb 27, 2018

Levels of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in England estimated to be 20%

Research estimates that at least 20% of antibiotic prescriptions in English primary care are inappropriate, with higher proportions prescribed for respiratory and urinary tract infections. The study highlights the need for better diagnostic coding and prescribing guidelines to reduce antibiotic misuse and preserve their effectiveness.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateFeb 27, 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.

Running rings around cholera outbreaks

A study modeling cholera epidemics suggests that targeting vaccine and other interventions to areas around existing cholera cases is an effective way to control outbreaks. The results indicate that oral cholera vaccine is the most effective intervention, with a radius of 70-100 meters being optimal for administration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

How do teachers integrate STEM into K-12 classrooms?

Researchers found that teachers who integrated more STEM concepts in their classrooms were more critical of their instruction and sought ways to improve their practice. Student engagement played a key role in the success of engineering design projects, which provided context for students to understand complex concepts.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalInternational Journal of STEM Education·DateFeb 27, 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.

Largest Chinook salmon disappearing from West Coast

A University of Washington-led study found that Chinook salmon populations across the West Coast have declined in size, with Alaska and Washington showing the biggest reductions. Fishing pressure and marine mammal predation are believed to be contributing factors.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateFeb 27, 2018

Study suggests risk of ALS increases with more exposure to diesel exhaust

A study suggests that frequent exposure to diesel exhaust may increase the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with a stronger link observed in men exposed for more than 50% of their working life. The research, published in the American Academy of Neurology's meeting program, found no associations among women, highlighting the...

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateFeb 27, 2018

Diabetes drug use during pregnancy linked to child's weight

Children born to mothers taking metformin during pregnancy are at increased risk of having obesity or overweight, according to a new study. The research found that the medication crossed the placenta and affected fetal development, leading to higher BMI scores in children.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 27, 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.

New insight on the formation of East Asian flora

Researchers propose two distinct floras, Rhododendron Flora and Metasequoia Flora, to represent core regions of the Sino-Japanese and Sino-Himalayan flora. The study suggests East Asian flora is relatively young, with most clades originating since the Miocene, and may be a refugial area for ancient relict plants.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 27, 2018

Fewer Americans think smoking a pack a day poses a great health risk

Fewer Americans believe that smoking a pack or more per day poses a great health risk, with the number declining by 1% from 2006 to 2015. This change in perception has not translated into fewer smokers, but may signal a slowing of progress in reducing tobacco use.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateFeb 27, 2018

Tracking endangered mammals with the leeches that feed on them

A new study confirms the value of iDNA methods in biodiversity surveys, identifying certain ground birds and bats for the first time. Leeches can be used to survey more rapidly and confidently identify small mammal species, making them an extremely useful tool for conservation purposes.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalSystematics and Biodiversity·DateFeb 27, 2018

New online tool gives 3-D view of human metabolic processes

Researchers developed Recon3D, a comprehensive human metabolic network reconstruction integrating genes, proteins, and metabolites. The tool revealed 'mutation hotspots' where disease-causing mutations occur, and how drugs affect metabolic reactions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 27, 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.

Chinese scientists decipher origins of repopulated microglia in brain and retina

Researchers successfully deciphered the origin of repopulated microglia in the brain and retina, revealing that they are solely derived from residual microglia after acute depletion. This study provides insights for regenerative medicine and sheds new light on the origins and maintenance of microglia in the retina.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateFeb 27, 2018

Challenging statistics of weather extremes

Researchers Raphaël Huser and Jennifer Wadsworth developed an integrated statistical approach to modeling weather extremes, eliminating the need for guessing dependence strength. The new model can handle different spatial dependence scenarios, from strong correlations to complete independence.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Geographical and Statistical Society·DateFeb 27, 2018

Individual quantum dots imaged in 3-D for first time

A new imaging technique uses a super sharp needle to nudge individual nanoparticles into different orientations, capturing 2D images to reconstruct 3D pictures. This method allows for the observation of defects in nanostructures like semiconductors and proteins, which can lead to better characterization and control of their production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateFeb 27, 2018

How does water change the moon's origin story?

New research suggests the Moon may be wetter than initially thought, raising questions about its origin story and composition. Scientists have developed models to determine whether a wet Moon is compatible with a giant impact formation, finding that it's not an unlikely scenario.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateFeb 27, 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.

Simple urine test could measure how much our body has aged

Researchers found a substance indicating oxidative damage increases in urine as people get older, potentially providing a method to measure biological age. The study measured 8-oxoGsn levels in human urine samples from Chinese residents aged 2-90 years old, finding an age-dependent increase in urinary 8-oxoGsn.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateFeb 27, 2018

Helpful, hopeful news for bone marrow transplant patients

A new imaging test can detect bone marrow engraftment as early as days after a transplant, giving patients and doctors a more accurate assessment of the treatment's success. This breakthrough could help patients avoid painful biopsies and rapidly respond to potential complications, potentially saving lives.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateFeb 27, 2018

Children prefer distribution by equal outcome when they share

A study by Kobe University found that children aged 5-6 prefer distributing resources so everyone ends up with the same amount, rather than giving equal amounts regardless of initial amounts. This suggests that young children prioritize fairness and equality in resource distribution.

SourceKobe University·JournalEuropean Journal of Developmental Psychology·DateFeb 27, 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.

Wood fuels key to easing food insecurity situation in sub-Saharan Africa

The study highlights the importance of considering access to wood fuels when formulating policies to deal with food insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa. Researchers suggest expanding sustainable biomass production and consumption, including agroforestry practices to ease the burden on women, who collect most firewood.

SourcePenn State·JournalFACETS·DateFeb 27, 2018

Obesity could be linked to early childhood behavior

A study by the University of Waterloo found that early childhood behaviors are strong predictors of adult obesity. The research team identified four clusters of risk: Inactive Screen-Users, Moderately Active Substance Users, and two groups with healthier behaviors. Public health efforts should focus on modifying these behaviors earlier...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 27, 2018

Powerful new imaging method reveals in detail how particles move in solution

A new X-ray laser method solves the phase problem for solution scattering, allowing scientists to visualize molecular structures in detail. This improvement will enable researchers to study viruses and other biological molecules more effectively, providing critical information about their internal density variations.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Methods·DateFeb 27, 2018

Army researchers are after cost-effective safer, lighter batteries

Scientists are working on novel solid state electrolytes to enhance battery energy density and reduce weight. Improved non-flammable and low-cost electrolytes have great potential for lithium metal technology, resulting in increased energy density and lighter batteries.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 27, 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.

Receptors key to strong memories

Researchers at UC Davis identified SynDIG4 protein as a crucial regulator of synaptic plasticity, enabling the formation and consolidation of new memories. The discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying memory formation and could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for cognitive disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 27, 2018

Genetics researchers close in on schizophrenia

Researchers have discovered 50 new gene regions increasing schizophrenia risk, including genes previously associated with intellectual disability and autism. These findings shed light on the disorder's complex genetics, suggesting subtle genetic variants can contribute to its development.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 27, 2018

Cartoon coyote's fall inspires development of new properties of silicon

Scientists have discovered a way to control the flow of terahertz photons using ordinary computer chips, which could lead to faster computers and higher bandwidth communications. The method uses a 'coyote time' effect, where the molecule doesn't know its energy after the first photon hits, allowing for more efficient switching.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature·DateFeb 27, 2018

Food insecurity screening works, but social stigma stands in its way

A food insecurity screening at pediatrician's offices was found to be effective but struggled with referrals due to fear of Child Protective Services and complicated processes. The study recommends better communication and connecting families with immediate resources to alleviate social stigma and improve outcomes.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateFeb 27, 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.

Jekyll and Hyde and seek

A signaling protein called Daple, normally a tumor suppressor, can be manipulated by growth factors to become a driver of malignant growth and metastasis in cancer cells. This discovery highlights the complexity of crosstalk between major signals that drive cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 27, 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.

Decrease seen in red blood cell, plasma transfusions in US

A study of US hospital inpatient discharges from 1993 to 2014 found a decrease in red blood cell and plasma transfusions between 2011 and 2014. This trend may be attributed to the implementation of restrictive transfusion practices aimed at improving patient outcomes and conserving blood.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 27, 2018

Landscape genetics branches out to help conserve riverside forests

A study using landscape genetics identified a decline in the endangered maple Acer miyabei's population due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The research highlights the importance of preserving forests along rivers and surrounding them to maintain gene flow, ensuring the long-term survival of this unique species.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 27, 2018

Osher Collaborative for Integrative Medicine begins new JACM column partnership

The Osher Collaborative for Integrative Medicine has launched a new quarterly column in JACM, discussing strategies to advance health justice through integrative medicine principles. The inaugural column highlights the need to address bias and discrimination in intrapersonal attitudes and behaviors.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

Scientists seeking rare river crayfish aren't just kicking rocks

Researchers at the University of Illinois used a combination of traditional kick-seining and environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques to study the rare Faxonius eupunctus crayfish. They found the species most abundant in the middle part of its 30-mile range, with up to 35,000 cubic feet of water flowing by each second.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateFeb 27, 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.

Quantum machine shows promise for biological research

Researchers applied quantum machine learning to a real-world biological problem, predicting the strength of binding sites for transcription factors. The study demonstrated the potential of quantum computing for biology, with results consistent with current understanding of gene regulation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateFeb 27, 2018

Another clue for fast motion of the Hawaiian hotspot

Recent studies suggest that the Hawaiian hotspot moved southward at a rate of several tens of kilometers per million years. This new evidence contradicts the long-held assumption that hotspots are stationary and supports a dynamic Earth model.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 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.

UH receives $2.8 million to develop leaders in STEM education

The University of Houston has been awarded a $2.8 million grant to fund a teacher graduate program focused on STEM education. The program aims to prepare middle and high school teachers from underrepresented communities to lead STEM instruction and address disparities in education.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 27, 2018

Wearable hospital lab: NSF awards $10 million for bioimaging

A Rice University-led team has been awarded $10 million by the NSF to create wearable and point-of-care microscopes that can monitor nearly 100 health conditions without invasive procedures. The technology aims to provide real-time, non-invasive imaging of tissues using on-chip illumination and sensing.

SourceRice University·DateFeb 27, 2018

Wind and solar could meet most but not all US electricity needs

The study found that wind and solar resources have natural variability, making it challenging to generate all electricity from these sources. Reliable electricity generation with 80% solar and wind requires a continent-scale transmission grid with at least 12 hours of storage.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 27, 2018

Carnegie Mellon will help develop camera to see through skin

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are part of a $10 million program to develop a new type of camera that can peer deep beneath the skin to diagnose and monitor various health conditions. The camera uses computational scatterography to make sense of scattered light, enabling noninvasive bio-optical imaging at a cellular scale.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateFeb 27, 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.

When treating athletes for heat stroke, 'cool first, transport second'

Exertional heat stroke is a life-threatening condition in athletes that requires immediate cooling to prevent critical cell damage. The recommended treatment protocol 'cool first, transport second' prioritizes rapid cooling of the body to less than 104.5 degrees F within 30 minutes.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalPrehospital Emergency Care·DateFeb 27, 2018

States with strong tobacco control measures have fewer e-cigarette users

A NYU study found that states with robust tobacco control policies have fewer cigarette users and e-cigarette users, with variations in e-cigarette use by region and state. The study suggests that existing state-level tobacco control measures likely influence e-cigarette use.

SourceNew York University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateFeb 27, 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.

Bonobo and chimpanzee gestures share multiple meanings

Researchers have discovered that bonobo and chimpanzee gestures share multiple meanings, with many gestures having similar functions across the two species. The study, published in PLOS Biology, defines the meaning of each bonobo gesture by analyzing reactions and satisfaction levels.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 27, 2018

Teaching quantum physics to a computer

Researchers developed machine learning software that allows computers to learn the quantum state of complex systems based on experimental observations. This approach enables faster tomography for quantum states and has implications for testing quantum computers with many qubits.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 27, 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.

Squid skin could be the solution to camouflage material

New research by Northeastern University scientists isolates pigment granules from squid skin to create ultra-thin films with rich colors. These materials could be used for adaptive coloration and camouflage applications.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateFeb 27, 2018

Saline use on the decline at Vanderbilt following landmark studies

Two landmark studies by Vanderbilt researchers show significant improvement in patient outcomes using balanced fluids instead of saline for intravenous therapy, leading to a decline in saline use at the hospital. The studies found a 1 percent lower incidence of serious kidney problems or death in patients receiving balanced fluids, res...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

Why are some mushrooms 'magic?'

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that psychedelic mushrooms developed psilocybin to interfere with insect neurotransmitters, lowering the chances of being eaten. This evolutionary explanation could guide medical science in finding novel treatments for neurological disorders.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEvolution Letters·DateFeb 27, 2018

A protein that self-replicates

Researchers at ETH Zurich have made a groundbreaking discovery that protein amyloids can self-replicate, challenging the long-held RNA hypothesis as the origin of life. The findings suggest that early life forms may have used amyloids as information carriers and catalytic units.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 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.

A marriage of light-manipulation technologies

Researchers successfully crafted a metasurface-based lens atop a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) platform, combining the best features of both technologies while reducing size. The device measures 900 microns in diameter and 10 microns in thickness, advancing LIDAR systems used to guide self-driving cars.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalACS Photonics·DateFeb 27, 2018

Enabling technology for emerging gene therapies

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a method enabling effective insertion of large molecules into cells using acoustic shear poration and electrophoresis. The approach has achieved greater than 75 percent delivery efficiency of macromolecules, including DNA insertion, which is significantly more challenging.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 27, 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.

20 minute video developed for child daycare providers during disasters

A 20-minute video was created to help child daycare providers prepare for disasters, addressing concerns of unpreparedness. The video, developed through a collaboration between several stakeholders, provides key points in disaster planning for daycare providers.

SourceSociety for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Inc.·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateFeb 27, 2018

Super-resolution microscopy in both space and time

A team of researchers has developed a technique that can perform both 3D super-resolution microscopy and fast 3D phase imaging in a single instrument, enabling high-time resolution visualization of living cells. This new platform, called PRISM, allows for direct visualization and analysis of subcellular structures without labeling.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 27, 2018

New insights into treating a rare leukemia

A study published in Leukemia found that starting mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL) treatment with a less-toxic regimen is linked to better remission rates and long-term survival. Patients treated initially with ALL therapy were three to five times more likely to achieve complete remission than those receiving AML therapy.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalLeukemia·DateFeb 27, 2018

Research improves food bank effectiveness, equity

Researchers developed two models to optimize food bank operations, accounting for uncertainty in capacity and demand. The models aim to distribute food efficiently and equitably while minimizing waste.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research·DateFeb 27, 2018

New research reports advances in measuring blood flow velocity in deep tissue

Researchers have reported significant advancements in measuring blood flow velocity in deep tissues using a handheld ultrasound probe. The new technique, known as photoacoustic flowmetry, has the potential to bring diagnostic capabilities closer to clinical use.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 27, 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.

UGR scientist developed 3-D scans of beetles for Blade Runner 2049

Prof Alba-Tercedor collaborated with BUF to create high-resolution microtomography images of tropical longhorn beetle species and darkling beetle Zophobas morio, used in the film's photorealistic models. The results demonstrate microtomography's value for reconstructing tiny animals' microscopic structural details.

SourceUniversity of Granada·DateFeb 27, 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.

Wind and solar power could meet four-fifths of US electricity demand, study finds

Scientists at UCI, Caltech, and Carnegie Institution for Science found that US can reliably meet 80% of electricity demand with solar and wind power generation. However, meeting 100% demand would require significant investment in energy storage and transmission capabilities to overcome seasonal and weather variabilities.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 27, 2018

Scientists identify specialized brain areas for feeding and egg-laying in hawkmoths

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology found that activity in specific brain areas correlates with different behaviors in female Manduca sexta. The study identified a functional atlas of the antennal lobe, which is linked to feeding behavior, whereas other areas are related to egg-laying.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 27, 2018

High salinity protects corals from heat stress

Researchers at KAUST found that high salinity can protect corals from heat stress by increasing the levels of antioxidant floridoside. This compound helps regulate osmotic pressure and prevent severe bleaching in coral model organism Aiptasia.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalBiology Open·DateFeb 27, 2018

International Spina Bifida experts shapes future research, shares insights for practical care

This special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine presents significant contributions from the Third World Congress on Spina Bifida Research and Care, covering topics such as regenerative medicine, genetics, trauma care, and self-management. The goal is to improve healthcare for individuals with spina bifida, includ...

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·DateFeb 27, 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.

Fitness tracker data can enhance biomedical research and personalized health

Researchers have found that wearable activity data can predict various markers of risk for cardiovascular diseases such as obesity, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. The study also identified active individuals at increased risk of having enlarged hearts, a condition commonly thought only to affect competitive athletes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 27, 2018

Scientists map, track breakaway cancerous cells with metal detection

Researchers at USC Michelson Center successfully utilize a new metal detection technique for studying cancer cells. By imaging metal-tagged antibodies on biopsies from a patient with metastatic prostate cancer, scientists can identify and characterize cancer cells in a blood sample after it is placed on a slide.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalConvergent Science Physical Oncology·DateFeb 27, 2018

Man-made earthquake risk reduced if fracking is 895m from faults

A new study found that the risk of man-made earthquakes due to fracking is greatly reduced if high-pressure fluid injection used to crack underground rocks is 895m away from faults in the Earth's crust. The ReFINE consortium recommends this distance to avoid reactivating geological faults and reducing the risk of induced earthquakes.

SourceDurham University·JournalGeomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources·DateFeb 27, 2018

NASA joins international science team in exploring auroral cusp from Norway

The Grand Challenge Initiative - Cusp is a series of international sounding rocket missions investigating the physics of heating and charged particle precipitation in the geomagnetic cusp. The team will study the effects of solar activity on Earth's atmosphere, improving navigation and communication near the poles.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 27, 2018