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Science News Archive February 2018 - Page 35


Page 35 of 36

UH engineer wins Welch Foundation's 2018 Hackerman Award

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

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateFeb 2, 2018
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.

An unbiased approach for sifting through big data

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

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

Revealing the hidden path of perovskite formation

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

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

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

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

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

Rare ichthyosaur is only second known example

A rare 200-million-year-old ichthyosaur specimen of the new species Wahlisaurus massarae has been discovered in a UK private collection. This fossil is only the second known example of this species, previously discovered by Dean Lomax in 2016.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalGeology·DateFeb 1, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Parenting program brings 'joy' to Africa's poorest communities

A widely used parental guidance program has been shown to reduce domestic conflict and boost economic resilience in South Africa's poorest communities. The Sinovuyo Caring Families Programme for Parents and Teens transformed family relationships in severely at risk communities, improving teenagers' safety and family relationships.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateFeb 1, 2018

The disappearance of common species

A study published in Biological Conservation found that widespread insects are threatened with a decline in species diversity, genetic diversity, and ability to adapt to environmental changes. The research highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through population exchange for common species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 1, 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.

Simmons Cancer Center researchers part of historic CAR-T breakthrough

Researchers at UT Southwestern's Simmons Cancer Center have made a historic breakthrough in CAR-T therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children and young adults. Eighty-one percent of patients treated with CAR-T therapy went into remission, offering new hope for those previously untreatable.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2018

Zeroing in on dopamine

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified the molecular machinery responsible for precise dopamine release in the brain, challenging current models of dopamine signaling. The study found specialized active release sites that enable fast and spatially precise secretion of dopamine.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateFeb 1, 2018

Wastewater injection depth important trigger for induced quakes

A new study suggests that wastewater injection depth is a critical factor in inducing earthquakes. Simulations using an advanced computer model reveal that limiting depth to 500 meters above the basement can reduce seismic energy release by a factor of 2.8.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 1, 2018

Multidrug-resistant malaria spread under the radar for years in Cambodia

A comprehensive genetic study reveals that multidrug-resistant malaria parasites emerged and spread aggressively in Cambodia, under-reporting for years. Ongoing genomic surveillance is vital to inform public health malaria control strategies and detect patterns of resistance.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 1, 2018

Typical woman or typical man?

The Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) recognizes Professors Louise Pilote and Rhonda Voskuhl for their pioneering work on sex and gender differences in cardiovascular diseases and multiple sclerosis. Their research focuses on incorporating gender aspects into medical practice.

SourceBIH at Charité·DateFeb 1, 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.

Patients and doctors often disagree in evaluation of surgical scarring

Researchers found patients and doctors disagree on surgical scarring evaluation 28% of the time, with patients focusing on depth and physicians on coloration and texture. This highlights the need for better assessment methods and improved preoperative counseling.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Facial Plastic Surgery·DateFeb 1, 2018

Practical hair regeneration technology

Researchers have developed a method for mass preparing cellular aggregates called 'hair follicle germs' that may lead to new treatment for hair loss. The therapy involves regenerating hair follicles, the tiny organs that grow and sustain hair, on a large scale.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalBiomaterials·DateFeb 1, 2018

Why basal cell tumors return when drug treatment stops

A new study reveals how basal cell cancer responds to treatment and offers new ideas for controlling this disease. The researchers found that the relative location of a cell within a tumor can have a big effect on its sensitivity to drug treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 1, 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.

Scientists reveal a molecule that may underpin neurological disorders

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have discovered a molecule called progranulin that plays a crucial role in strengthening and eliminating synapses in the brain. This process is essential for developing neural circuits, but genetic or environmental mutations can disrupt it, leading to disorders such as autism and dementia.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 1, 2018

The benefits of social media for young people in care

Young people in care benefit from social media by maintaining healthy birth family relationships and friendships, making new connections, and easing transitions. Social media provides emotional support, increased self-esteem, and mental well-being, helping reduce stigma and shame associated with being in care.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe British Journal of Social Work·DateFeb 1, 2018

New technique can capture images of ultrafast energy-time entangled photon pairs

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have captured the first images of ultrafast photons that are energy-time entangled, enabling direct applications for quantum cryptography and communication protocols. This technique will allow for establishing highly secure communication channels over long distances.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 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.

Self-assembled 'hairy' nanoparticles could give a double punch to cancer

Researchers have developed 'hairy' nanoparticles that can assemble and disassemble on demand, allowing for simultaneous delivery of therapeutic drugs and heating to cancer cells. This technology combines light-sensitive materials with water-repelling yet light-absorbing materials to create photo-responsive gold nanoparticles.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2018

Family impact of congenital Zika syndrome likely to last a lifetime

A new supplement in Pediatrics synthesizes research on congenital Zika syndrome, exploring prevention, development profiles, and family support. It highlights the need for accurate information, active surveillance, and formal support services to address the ongoing health impact of Zika virus.

SourceRTI International·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 1, 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.

Surprise: Satellite galaxies of Centaurus A are on a coordinated dance

Researchers found that 14 out of 16 satellite galaxies of Centaurus A orbit in a single plane and rotate coherently. This synchronized movement contradicts standard cosmology simulations, suggesting flaws in current theories of galaxy formation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 1, 2018

Instagram users less likely to engage with political or controversial images, MU finds

A new study from the University of Missouri found that Instagram users are drawn to social news and entertainment content, but less likely to engage with political or controversial images. Researchers identified strategies for increasing engagement with audiences, including presenting news images in aesthetically pleasing ways.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalVisual Communication Quarterly·DateFeb 1, 2018

New mouse model makes stem cells light up green

Researchers have developed a method to selectively mark multipotent stromal cells in mice using the CD73 gene, allowing for the analysis of their distribution pattern and function in living organisms. This breakthrough enables the study of these stem cells in their original state, providing insights into their role in regenerative medi...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 1, 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.

Geese reduce metabolic rate to cope with winter

A new study found that geese reduce their metabolic rate to cope with winter by lowering their heart rate and body temperature. By doing so, they can conserve energy in the harsh cold conditions.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2018

Magnesium makes chromosomes

Researchers develop MARIO, a fluorescent probe that measures magnesium ion concentration, showing its critical role in chromosome condensation. The study provides a new mechanism for chromosome organization and may help understand diseases like cancer.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 1, 2018

Infrared lasers reveal unprecedented details in surface scattering of methane

Researchers have used novel infrared laser techniques to study methane scattering on a nickel surface with full quantum-state resolution. This breakthrough allows for the observation of vibrational energy redistribution during surface scattering, which can be tested by state-of-the-art quantum theories.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 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.

'Islands' of cell membrane components

A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that cell membrane components form isolated domains within an artificial lipid bilayer, separated from the surrounding membrane. The findings provide valuable information for understanding membrane protein functions and developing experimental techniques.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 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.

Neurons get the beat and keep it going in drumrolls

Researchers discovered complex patterns of electrical impulses in brain neurons, with repeating rumblings and spikes sustaining activity for hundreds of milliseconds. These findings suggest that neurons may not fire randomly, but rather follow structured rhythms that could influence our understanding of their function.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateFeb 1, 2018

Experimental therapy could boost stroke recovery

Researchers at the University of Alberta discovered that injecting a drug called chondroitinase ABC into the spinal cord can enhance recovery in stroke victims. The therapy, combined with rehabilitative training, showed significant improvements in sensorimotor deficits and allowed subjects to perform tasks at pre-stroke levels.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateFeb 1, 2018

Scandinavians shaped by several waves of immigration

A study of 9500-year-old bone samples found that people from western Norway were genetically similar to those east of the Baltic Sea in Russia, while eastern Scandinavians were more similar to central and western Europe. The discovery highlights multiple waves of migration to Scandinavia.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 1, 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.

Anxious personality may be linked to heightened dog bite risk

A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that people with anxious personalities are more likely to be bitten by dogs. The survey revealed nearly three times the actual number of dog bites as hospital records indicate, suggesting a higher risk for anxious individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateFeb 1, 2018

Regular exercise halves complication rate after lung cancer surgery

Exercising regularly before surgery for lung cancer halves the complication rate afterwards, with a 48% reduction in postoperative complications. Exercise also reduces the length of hospital stay by almost three days, according to a pooled analysis of 13 clinical trials involving 806 participants.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2018

Researchers discover the unexpected role of platelets in immune response

Platelets have been found to act as the immune system's first responders when a virus, bacterium, or allergen enters the bloodstream. They release serotonin, which triggers an inflammatory response in mice with antigen-antibody complexes, leading to septic or anaphylactic shock.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 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.

Boosting a key protein to help bones that won't heal

Researchers have developed a new therapeutic approach to enhance bone healing by delivering additional Jagged-1 protein at the site of injury. In a study published in npj Regenerative Medicine, rodents treated with Jagged-1 showed improvements in skull and femoral bone injuries, unlike BMPs which caused excessive bone growth.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2018

New insights into how employees manage stressful situations at work

Researchers developed a new self-efficacy scale to assess employees' ability to manage tasks, negative emotions, and interpersonal relationships. The findings show that high self-efficacy in these areas leads to better job performance, reduced counterproductive behavior, and improved well-being.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·DateFeb 1, 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.

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Rapid spread of multidrug-resistant malaria in southeast Asia demands urgent action

A genetic study reveals that multidrug-resistant malaria in southeast Asia originated from a single mutation combination in 2008, which spread rapidly across the region before becoming apparent in 2013. The study highlights the need for close monitoring of genetic mutations to mitigate resistance and prevent further outbreaks.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 1, 2018

Measuring molecular interactions

Researchers have developed a new method to quantify protein-metabolite interactions, discovering hundreds of new interactions and binding sites. The approach has the potential to identify new regulatory mechanisms, enzymes, and metabolic reactions in cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell·DateFeb 1, 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.