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Science News for February 9, 2018


Scientists create functioning kidney tissue

Scientists at the University of Manchester successfully produced human kidney tissue within a living organism that is able to produce urine. The new structures contain most of the constituent parts present in human nephrons, including proximal tubules and Bowman's capsule, and have been linked to the vasculature of mice.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateFeb 9, 2018

Small gold mines in Senegal create high mercury contamination

A Duke University-led study has found dangerous levels of mercury and methylmercury near artisanal gold mines in Senegal, contaminating soils, sediments, and rivers. Mercury poisoning can cause various health impacts, including tremors, muscle weakness, and birth defects.

SourceDuke University·DateFeb 9, 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.

Discharge strategies to prevent asthma readmissions

A multicenter retrospective cohort study found that comprehensive education prior to discharge significantly lowers readmission rates in children hospitalized for acute asthma. Discharge components such as medication provision, communication with primary medical doctors, and post-discharge activities also show promise in reducing readm...

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateFeb 9, 2018

Efficient technique discovered for isolating embryonic stem cells in cows

Researchers at UC Davis develop a culture system that efficiently derives embryonic stem cells from cattle on nearly every attempt. This breakthrough could revolutionize the way genetics is done by orders of magnitude, enabling faster breeding of genetically superior cows with desirable traits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2018

Funding to lead team-based investigation of gynecologic cancer therapies

A multidisciplinary team of Penn researchers will investigate immune system response to cancers and develop new therapies for gynecologic cancers. The team will examine how patients vary in their responses to different anti-cancer therapies and identify key factors contributing to treatment success.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tropical Storm watch up in Guam, NASA sees 02W form

NASA's Terra satellite captured images of Tropical Depression 02W on Feb. 9, showing a developing low level circulation center with minimal convection. The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Guam and Yap State due to hazardous surf and rip currents.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 9, 2018

New process allows 3-D printing of nanoscale metal structures

Researchers at Caltech developed a new technique to create complex nanoscale metal structures using 3D printing. The process involves synthesizing organic scaffolds that contain metal ions, allowing for the creation of metallic structures smaller than previously possible.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2018

Aerial imagery gives insight into water trends

Researchers at Utah State University developed a method using aerial imagery to estimate river discharge, filling data gaps in smaller rivers and streams. The approach combines image processing techniques and hydraulic modeling for accurate flow estimates.

SourceUtah State University·JournalWater Resources Research·DateFeb 9, 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.

Mass production of new class of semiconductors closer to reality

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have created a new class of semiconductors by controlling the orientation and size of single-walled carbon nanotubes. This breakthrough could lead to more powerful devices with improved battery life, as they consume less power.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 9, 2018

New study highlights the impact companion animals have on owners

A new systematic review suggests that pets contribute to managing mental health conditions by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness. The study highlights both positive and negative aspects of pet ownership, emphasizing the importance of incorporating pet-related support into mainstream mental health care.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalBMC Psychology·DateFeb 9, 2018

Acoustic nanomotors

Scientists successfully use ultrasound to propel gold nanowires carrying the Cas9-sgRNA complex across cell membranes, enabling targeted gene knockout. The system is simple and requires minimal payload, making it a promising therapeutic approach for cancer treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 9, 2018

Workplace stress can take a toll on your brain surgeon, too

A new study by the Keck School of Medicine of USC reveals that 67% of neurosurgery residents experience burnout during training, with factors including inadequate exposure to the operating room and hostile faculty contributing to the issue. The study's findings highlight the need for improved mentorship support to reduce burnout and pr...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateFeb 9, 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.

Microscopic chariots deliver molecules within our cells

A new study provides the first 3D visualization of the dynein-dynactin complex bound to microtubules, revealing a surprising feature: two dynein molecules where one was expected, with four motor domains total. This discovery helps explain how dynein can haul large loads over long distances in crowded cellular environments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 9, 2018

Routine imaging scans may predict fracture risk in older adults

A new study found that a simple density measurement of bone quality from chest and abdominal CT scans can predict fracture risk in older adults. Having a low vertebral trabecular attenuation threshold was associated with an increased risk of future fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 9, 2018

Research uncovers the mysterious lives of narwhals

Researchers have discovered that narwhals congregate near glacier fjords with specific physical properties, suggesting a preference for freshwater environments. The study aims to better understand the impact of climate change on these elusive marine mammals.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateFeb 9, 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 images reveal how the ear's sensory hairs take shape

Scientists at Rockefeller University have identified a molecule called Daple that helps construct and align the sensory hair bundles in the inner ear. These bundles are crucial for detecting sound, motion, and spatial orientation.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2018

Few-layer Tellurium was predicted to be a promising successor of black phosphorus

Researchers predict few-layer Tellurium (FL-α-Te) as a superior semiconductor to black phosphorus due to its high carrier mobility, tunable bandgap, and strong light absorption. FL-α-Te exhibits anisotropic inter-chain vibrational behaviors and nearly isotropic strong light absorption, making it an ideal material for thermoelectrics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateFeb 9, 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.

Using technology to detect hidden threats

A team of researchers at the University of Delaware is developing an augmented reality system that can spot explosive hazards precisely and from a safe distance. The technology uses traditional cameras, thermal infrared sensing, and ground penetrating radar to detect IEDs up to 30 meters away.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateFeb 9, 2018

Drivers of hate in the US have distinct regional differences

A new study maps active hate groups across US counties, revealing regional variations in drivers of hate. The research finds that less education, poverty, and ethnic diversity correlate with more hate groups, with regional differences shaped by diverse ethnic and cultural histories.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAnnals of the American Association of Geographers·DateFeb 9, 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.

Noise sensitive persons can blame their brain

A new study reveals that noise sensitivity is related to differences in brain structure and sound processing, affecting individuals' ability to tolerate background noise. Research suggests that noise-sensitive people may experience difficulties with unexpected sounds and altered emotional responses to music.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNeuroImage·DateFeb 9, 2018

Your gadget's next power supply? Your body

A triboelectric nanogenerator tab can generate electricity from bending a finger and other simple movements, promising a new source of portable power. The UB and CAS team has developed a cost-effective and easily fabricable device that could serve as a power source for various wearable and self-powered electronic devices.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNano Energy·DateFeb 9, 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.

Device that measures cell strength could help identify drugs for asthma, hypertension

A new device developed by Rutgers University and UCLA can measure the physical strength of individual cells up to 100 times faster than current technology. This allows for easier testing and evaluation of new drugs for diseases associated with abnormal cell strength, including hypertension, asthma, and muscular dystrophy.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 9, 2018

Stacking on the graphene

Researchers at Tohoku University have fabricated two types of trilayer graphene with different electrical properties. The ABA-stacked graphene exhibits excellent electrical conductivity, while the ABC-stacked graphene displays semi-conducting properties. These findings hold implications for the development of novel electronic devices.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateFeb 9, 2018

Special UV light safely kills airborne flu virus, finds study

A study at Columbia University Irving Medical Center found that far-UVC light can efficiently kill aerosolized influenza viruses in the air without harming human tissues. The use of overhead far-UVC light in hospitals, schools, and other public spaces could provide a powerful check on seasonal influenza epidemics.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 9, 2018

Early treatment decisions can alter the course of care for acute pancreatitis patients

The American Gastroenterological Association's new clinical guideline focuses on critical decisions made during initial management of acute pancreatitis. It recommends goal-directed fluid resuscitation, early oral feeding, and enteral versus parenteral nutrition to alter the course of disease and duration of hospitalization.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 9, 2018

Researchers to develop new allergy relief device using cold plasma technology

Researchers at the University of Liverpool are developing a device that harnesses cold plasma technology to destroy airborne allergens on contact. The project aims to create a low-cost, efficient, and effective solution to tackle the problem of airborne allergens in the home, which affects over 12 million people in the UK alone.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateFeb 9, 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.

Blood test plus ultrasound boosts liver cancer detection by 40 percent

Combining a blood test for high alpha fetoprotein (AFP) levels with ultrasound imaging improves liver cancer detection by 40 percent, according to researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates in patients with liver cancer, which is on the rise in the US.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateFeb 9, 2018

New findings about why losartan is effective in treating Marfan syndrome may reshape our thinking about patient management

Researchers have identified activation of nitric oxide-dependent endothelial function as the key to losartan's anti-aortic root remodeling activities. This finding challenges traditional views on blood pressure control in Marfan syndrome treatment, suggesting a new approach focusing on endothelial function may be more beneficial.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateFeb 9, 2018

Soft chemotherapy is very effective in older patients when added to targeted treatment in an aggressive breast cancer subtype

A European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer trial found that combining a 'soft' chemotherapy with antiHER2 therapy is highly active and has low toxicity in older patients with HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer. The regimen resulted in a seven-month longer progression-free survival compared to targeted therapy alone.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateFeb 9, 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.

Why studying sugars matters in the fight against Alzheimer's disease

GlycoNet researchers Matthew Macauley and John Klassen are developing a strategy to identify the molecular identity of sugars interacting with CD33 protein, strongly implicated in Alzheimer's disease. This approach may lead to therapeutic targets or diagnostic tools for preventing or treating the disease.

SourceCanadian Glycomics Network·DateFeb 9, 2018

New lithium collection method could boost global supply

A University of Texas at Austin professor and his team have discovered a new, efficient way to extract lithium and other metals from water using metal-organic-framework membranes. This process has the potential to revolutionize industries such as water desalination and power electric cars.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2018

Intelligent drone swarm

Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have developed a multi-agent robotic system for flying a swarm of intelligent drones. The drones can synchronize their movements, reconfigure their flightpath, and land with high accuracy, avoiding obstacles up to 5 meters away.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·DateFeb 9, 2018

A super resolution view of chemical reactions

Using a super resolution microscopic technique, researchers have developed a method to follow chemical reactions in very small volumes, including inside living cells and individual organelles. This breakthrough enables the study of the chemistry of life with unprecedented precision.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 9, 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.

Study: Many parents of children with disabilities don't make care plans

A recent study suggests that fewer than half of parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities have made long-term care plans. This leaves family members facing a crisis when the parent or primary caregiver is no longer able to provide care, potentially leading to institutionalization.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalIntellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateFeb 9, 2018

Ultra-efficient removal of carbon monoxide using gold nanoparticles on a molecular support

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a way to mount gold nanoparticles on a molecular support, achieving nearly 100% conversion of carbon monoxide over a wide temperature range. The discovery reveals the crucial role of water in catalysis, promising new applications for gas purification and industrial filtration.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 9, 2018

New malleable 'electronic skin' self-healable, recyclable

The new CU Boulder e-skin has sensors embedded to measure pressure, temperature, humidity and air flow. It can be easily conformed to curved surfaces and is fully recyclable at room temperature, making it a valuable material for diverse medical, scientific and engineering fields.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 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.

Giant lava dome confirmed in Japan's Kikai Caldera

Researchers from Kobe University confirm a giant lava dome created 7300 years ago in Japan's Kikai Caldera, with a volume of over 32 cubic kilometers. The composition of the dome matches that of nearby Satsuma Iwo-jima Island, suggesting a possible current magma buildup.

SourceKobe University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 9, 2018

How the brain constructs the world

Researchers investigated how the brain constructs the world by integrating sensory signals from multiple modalities. They found that the posterior parietal cortex plays a crucial role in merging signals to form meaningful representations of objects and memories.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 9, 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.

Water-soluble warped nanographene

Researchers have synthesized a water-soluble warped nanographene that exhibits photodynamic properties, killing human cells upon irradiation. The material's biocompatibility and fluorescence make it suitable for bioimaging and potential therapeutic applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 9, 2018

Forging a quantum leap in quantum communication

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have introduced a method that overcomes the speed limit of quantum communication, enabling data transfer to increase by more than 5 orders of magnitude. This breakthrough uses direct optical nonlinearity to process quantum information in the optical regime, preserving its enormous bandwidth.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 9, 2018