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Science News Archive February 2018 - Page 34


Page 34 of 36

New technology for accelerated wound healing discovered

The technology involves delivering a human chemokine on site in wounds, increasing immune cell recruitment and specialization to accelerate healing. In preclinical studies, the treatment demonstrated potent effects on acceleration of wound healing in mice and models of diabetes and peripheral ischemia.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2018

Soil characteristics may be related to chronic wasting disease persistence, study finds

Researchers found that soils with more than 18% clay are associated with a steep drop in cases of chronic wasting disease. Additionally, soils with pH above 6.6 also show higher incidence rates of the disease. These findings could inform future management schemes to prevent disease transmission.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 5, 2018

A new path into bipolar disorder comes to light

Research suggests that EGR3 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) play critical roles in the impaired cellular resilience seen in bipolar disorder. The study's findings may lead to new therapeutic strategies by modulating EGR3 expression.

SourcePublicase International·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateFeb 5, 2018

Oxidation behavior of crude oil and SARA fractions

The study reveals differences in oxidation behavior between crude oil and its SARA fractions, with saturated hydrocarbons oxidizing well under low temperatures. Asphaltenes emit more heat under higher temperatures, highlighting the direct link between SARA fraction ratios and oxidation behavior.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalEnergy & Fuels·DateFeb 5, 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.

A majority of middle-aged people show a high level of mental well-being

A recent study at the University of Jyväskylä found a surprisingly high level of mental well-being among middle-aged individuals. The research examined multiple dimensions of mental well-being and identified four groups with varying levels of mental well-being. Individuals on the high-wellbeing trajectories had more satisfying relation...

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateFeb 5, 2018

Changing weather patterns throwing ecosystems out of whack

A study by University of South Florida researchers found that animal species are shifting the timing of their seasonal activities in response to changing temperatures and precipitation patterns. This shift can have adverse effects on ecosystems, human food supplies, and diseases.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 5, 2018

Old drug may have new tricks for fighting cancer

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered that ibrutinib can also target ERBB4, a lesser-studied member of the RTK family, potentially thwarting solid tumor growth. The compound limits growth in human cancer cells and reduces tumor size in mice.

SourceArizona State University·JournalOncogene·DateFeb 4, 2018

Ribosomes found to induce somatic cell pluripotency

A research team from Kumamoto University has discovered that ribosomes, the protein synthesizing organelle, can induce somatic cells to acquire pluripotency. This finding suggests a potential new approach for treating cancer and regenerating cells, as previously differentiated cells can be reprogrammed into multipotent stem cells.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 4, 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.

Multinational companies continue to produce unregulated antibiotics in India

A new study found that millions of unapproved antibiotics are being sold in India, with multinational companies manufacturing nearly 20% of the unapproved formulations. The researchers argue that banning the sale of unapproved FDC antibiotics and improving access to healthcare are crucial steps to controlling antimicrobial resistance.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateFeb 4, 2018

New genome-editing method 'cuts back' on unwanted genetic mutations

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 method that can introduce precise modifications to defective genes with fewer safety drawbacks. The new technique, called Single Nicking in the target Gene and Donor (SNGD), reduces unintended genetic mutations by up to 95%.

SourceOsaka University·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 4, 2018

Treatment of nitrogen-polluted sediment using marine anammox bacteria

Researchers from Kumamoto University and VIMS used sediment samples to evaluate the effectiveness of marine anammox bacteria in removing excess nitrogen. The study found that adding a bicarbonate supplement and high nitrogen content was necessary for anammox bacteria to thrive, and that symbiotic relationships between other microorgani...

SourceKumamoto University·JournalChemosphere·DateFeb 4, 2018

When did flowers originate?

The study reveals that flowering plants diversified suddenly in the Cretaceous period, while molecular-clock dating suggests an older origin. The discrepancy is attributed to false precision on both palaeontological and molecular evolutionary timescales.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew Phytologist·DateFeb 4, 2018

Personal Genome Project Canada study results show promise for health care in Canada

A Canadian Medical Association Journal study has found genetic variants associated with diseases and adverse drug reactions in 56 healthy participants. The results suggest that whole genome sequencing can benefit Canada's health care, but also highlight potential pitfalls and the need for careful evaluation.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 3, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Building miniature optical antennas using DNA as a guide

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

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

Army researchers develop new algorithms to train robots

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

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

Quantum algorithm could help AI think faster

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

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

Compounds derived from hops show promise for metabolic syndrome patients

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

SourceOregon State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2018

Fruit fly hunger games: Taste neurons in control

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

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Algorithm identifies vulnerable people during natural disasters

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

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Emergency Management·DateFeb 2, 2018

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

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

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

Cause of severe genetic disease identified

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

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

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

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

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

Solving the puzzle of multicellularity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holding on to patriarchy-reinforcing beliefs comes at a price

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

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

Can your brain testify against you?

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

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2018

New controls scale quantum chips

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

SourceRigetti Computing·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

It sounds like music to my ... brain!

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

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

Scientists call for global and local control and management of mercury

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

SourceSpringer·JournalAMBIO·DateFeb 2, 2018

Monitoring positive charges in solar materials

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

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

Illinois researchers develop new surface design inspired by snake skin

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

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

NASA's newly rediscovered IMAGE mission provided key aurora research

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

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2018

Radiocarbon dating reveals mass grave did date to the Viking age

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

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAntiquity·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

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

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

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

Scientists present new long-term ecological research

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

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

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

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

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

Popular, common allergy medication may prevent neuromyelitis optica relapses

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

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

Cutting off tumor supplies

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

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

Bacteria play critical role in driving colon cancers

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

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

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

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

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

Language matters in end-of-life conversations

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

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

NASA measured rainfall from Fehi's remnants in New Zealand

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

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 2, 2018

Nano-switches in the cell

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

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

New research on why GPs quit patient care

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

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 2, 2018

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

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

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