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Science News for January 15, 2018


Stop the clots, spare the coagulation

Researchers discovered synthetic APC-mimicking small molecules called 'parmodulins' provide anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic protection on par with APC, but without interfering with blood clotting. Parmodulins activate PAR1, triggering protective pathways in endothelial cells.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·DateJan 15, 2018

How flotsam converges and disperses in oceans

A study of ocean flotsam dispersion reveals that floating objects form submesoscale clusters before spreading apart. The findings could help estimate the impacts of ocean flotsam and aid the recovery of lost objects.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cellular seismology: Putting vibrations on the map

Researchers develop ultrafast imaging method to map cell elasticity, revealing mechanical properties of cells and tissues. The technology has potential applications in cancer, pathogen-induced infection, scarring, and tissue engineering.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Teens who were severely bullied as children at higher risk of suicidal thoughts, mental health issue

A new study found that teens who experienced severe bullying as children are more likely to develop depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in adolescence. The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggests that early intervention is crucial to prevent severe victimization.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 15, 2018

Research uncovers new link between head trauma, CTE and Lou Gehrig's disease

Researchers at Western University have discovered a unique neurobiological pathway triggered by head trauma that underlies both Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and Lou Gehrig's disease. The study, published in the January 2018 issue of Neurology, identifies a common link between CTE and ALS-related cognitive impairment.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalNeurology·DateJan 15, 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.

Exploring the neuroscience of behavioral therapy in rats

A study on rats exposed to chronic stress found that cognitive behavioral therapy increases activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, a brain region linked to improved treatment outcomes. The research provides insight into how behavioral therapy can be targeted to improve its effectiveness.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJan 15, 2018

Researchers develop a remote-controlled cancer immunotherapy system

A team of researchers has developed an innovative approach to remotely control genetic processes in live immune T cells, enabling them to recognize and kill cancer cells. The system uses mechanogenetics to convert mechanical signals into genetic control, with potential to increase precision and efficiency in CAR-T cell immunotherapy.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

How incurable mitochondrial diseases strike previously unaffected families

Healthy people carry mutations in their mitochondrial DNA, which can appear unexpectedly in previously unaffected families due to a bottleneck effect where only healthy mitochondria survive. The study reveals that every developing egg cell may carry faulty mitochondria, which can cause severe diseases if they repopulate the egg.

SourceMedical Research Council·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 15, 2018

Flawed research methods exaggerate the prevalence of depression

Studies relying on patient self-report screening questionnaires exaggerate the prevalence of depression due to inaccurate assessments. Researchers often opt for these methods because diagnostic interviews are time-consuming and expensive, leading to inflated results that attract more attention.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 15, 2018

Brain imaging predicts language learning in deaf children

A novel machine learning algorithm using brain scans predicts language ability in deaf children after cochlear implant surgery. This study has broad implications for children with developmental challenges, enabling clinicians and educators to intervene with therapy to maximize language learning.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 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.

Perovskite solar cells: Perfection not required

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin discover why perovskite solar cells function despite numerous holes. The thin layer built up in the film prevents short circuits by recombination barrier and electron transport layer separation.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateJan 15, 2018

Power stations in cells may protect brain against Parkinson's

A new study from the University of Bergen shows that impairment in mitochondria may actually protect the brain in Parkinson's disease. Brain cells with decreased complex I levels are less likely to contain Lewy bodies, abnormal protein-aggregates that characterize Parkinson's disease.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJan 15, 2018

Survival strategies for women in a youth-centric world

Researchers found that most women struggle to understand how to handle the processes of ageing, often relying on dieting as a tool to lose weight. Women also feel pressured to conform to capitalist beauty standards, leading to contradictions in their pursuit of self-care and social acceptance.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalAgeing and Society·DateJan 15, 2018

Normal tissue BRCA1 methylation associated with risk for high-grade ovarian cancer

Researchers found that normal tissue BRCA1 methylation is associated with an increased risk of high-grade ovarian cancer, which may occur as a prenatal event. The study analyzed white blood cells from patients and healthy controls and discovered that elevated BRCA1 methylation was confined to those diagnosed with high-grade serous tumors.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 15, 2018

How preterm birth may impact language development

A brain imaging study found that preterm infants with developmental disturbances in the Heschl's gyrus, a part of the brain involved in speech and language, exhibit reduced expressive language ability. The study suggests that preterm birth may impact language development due to altered auditory cortex maturation.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateJan 15, 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.

Fast-tracking T cell therapies with immune-mimicking biomaterials

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute have developed an immune-mimicking biomaterial that can amplify patient-specific T cells outside the body, increasing efficiency of cancer immunotherapies. The new approach mimics the process by which antigen-presenting cells stimulate T cells to expand and stay alive.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 15, 2018

Flawed US-led world order to blame for American political crises at home and abroad

A new paper by Professor Inderjeet Parmar argues that the US-led liberal international order's founding values are incompatible with diverse international powers, causing inequality and political turmoil at home. The approach creates more instability as the US struggles to manage its rivalry with China.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalInternational Affairs·DateJan 15, 2018

The more competitive, the more passionate in romantic relationships

A study by Hokkaido University researchers suggests that Americans are more passionate in their romantic relationships due to societal factors allowing for greater freedom and replacement options. In contrast, Japanese people experience less anxiety and risk of being cheated on, making passionate behavior less relevant.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalEvolutionary Psychology·DateJan 15, 2018

Role of human fleas and body lice in Europe's Black Death

A modeling study suggests human fleas and body lice played a role in the spread of plague during Europe's Second Pandemic. The study found that these ectoparasites better reflected mortality patterns than other transmission routes.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 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.

The Fields Medal fallacy: Why this math prize should return to its roots

The Fields Medal is shifting focus from established mathematicians to those with untapped potential. Research reveals early committees prioritized recognizing emerging talent over established figures. This change aligns with the medal's original purpose, promoting math advancement and public good.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature·DateJan 15, 2018

Long-term health conditions drive A&E visits, not lack of GP services

A recent study published in the British Journal of General Practice found that patients with multiple long-term health conditions are more likely to attend emergency departments. The study analyzed data from over 800,000 patients in east London and found a significant link between socioeconomic deprivation and ED attendance rates.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateJan 15, 2018

Atmospheric rivers and storm prediction

Atmospheric rivers originating in three main clusters exhibit diverse track shapes, landfall regions, and precipitation anomalies. Improved understanding of these features can enhance storm prediction and preparation for their impacts on water supply maintenance.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 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 blood test for diagnosing heart attacks: A 'big deal,' with caveats

A new high-sensitivity troponin (hsTn) assay can measure lower concentrations of troponin, allowing for earlier diagnosis of heart attacks. The test has shown a significant reduction in wait times for emergency department patients, as well as improved patient satisfaction and safety.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateJan 15, 2018

Novel 3-D printing technique yields high-performance composites

Researchers at Harvard developed a novel 3D printing method that enables control of short fibers in polymer matrices, resulting in enhanced strength, stiffness, and damage tolerance. This breakthrough has broad applications in materials engineering.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

New record at ultracold neutron source in Mainz

Scientists at Mainz University have increased the yield of their ultracold neutron source by a factor of 3.5, achieving 8.5 UCN per cubic centimeter. This improvement enables more sensitive measurements to determine the lifetime of free neutrons and is crucial for experiments in fundamental research.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateJan 15, 2018

Rising obesity rates in south leading to rapid increase in diabetes cases

A new study found that risk of diabetes is double for black patients, with strongest rising risk trends seen among whites. Obesity prevalence was highest among black women, while socioeconomic status and physical activity levels also played a significant role in diabetes development.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 15, 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.

Policy proposals and response to immigration

Researchers found that state-level immigration policies positively impact Latino sense of belonging, especially with welcoming policies like bilingual documents and social services for noncitizens. White Americans also report increased belonging when considering welcoming immigrant policies, except for conservatives.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Robots aid better understanding of phytoplankton blooms

Researchers have developed biogeochemical profiling floats to collect data on phytoplankton blooms, identifying the starting point for explosive spring blooms. These robots provide unparalleled data on ocean conditions, including light intensity, suspended particles, and chlorophyll concentration.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 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.

Possible cause of early colonial-era Mexican epidemic identified

Researchers from Max Planck Institute and Harvard University use ancient DNA analysis to uncover the possible cause of a devastating epidemic in Oaxaca, Mexico. The study found evidence of Salmonella enterica Paratyphi C, a pathogen that causes enteric fever, in skeletons of victims of the cocoliztli epidemic.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 15, 2018

Analysis shows lack of evidence that wearable biosensors improve patient outcomes

A study by Cedars-Sinai researchers found no statistically significant impact of wearable biosensors on clinical outcomes such as weight, blood pressure, and body mass index. Despite early promise for certain conditions like obstructive pulmonary disease and Parkinson's disease, the devices' effectiveness remains unproven.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateJan 15, 2018

Research will help protect military from hackers

A team of researchers led by Heng Yin at the University of California, Riverside, is working on a $4.68 million grant to develop methods for securing legacy systems used in government agencies, including the Department of Defense.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJan 15, 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.

Naturalization barriers for low-income immigrants

A study found that US naturalization rates are lower compared to countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK. Low-income immigrant applicants often face challenges due to the high cost of naturalization fees, hindering their ability to become citizens.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Potential brain-machine interface for hand paralysis

A brain-machine interface combining brain stimulation and robotic control increases neural signal strength, potentially benefiting stroke patients with hand paralysis. This technique harnesses additional neurons to enhance motor function.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJan 15, 2018

New application for acoustics helps estimate marine life populations

Researchers used hydroacoustics to compare fish abundance within and outside Mexico's Cabo Pulmo National Park, finding a four-fold increase in protected areas. The study demonstrates a cost-effective method for assessing fish populations and highlights the importance of marine protected areas for maintaining sustainable fisheries.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 15, 2018

Teens likely to crave junk food after watching TV ads

A study by Cancer Research UK found that teens who watch TV with adverts are more likely to eat unhealthy foods like crisps, biscuits, and fizzy drinks, consuming up to 500 extra snacks a year. The report suggests that reducing junk food TV marketing could help halt the obesity crisis.

SourceCancer Research UK·DateJan 15, 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.

Improvements in mortality rates are slowed by rise in obesity in the United States

A recent study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that rising obesity in the US has slowed the improvement in mortality rates over the last three decades. By calculating lifetime maximum BMI, the team discovered that this measure better predicts mortality than traditional BMI measures.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Brain connectivity and creativity

A study using functional MRI data from 163 participants found a functional brain network associated with creativity involving the default mode, executive, and salience networks. The strength of this network's connectivity was linked to an individual's creative ability score.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

HKBU scholars develop new technology to decode gene transcription

A research team from HKBU has developed a new technology to accurately establish a gene regulatory route for analyzing genetic function and understanding complex biological events. The 'LogicTRN' algorithm can help locate key regulatory routes for complicated diseases, facilitating targeted therapy drug development.

SourceHong Kong Baptist University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 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.

War in Ukraine has escalated HIV spread in the country

A study published in PNAS found that conflict in Ukraine has increased the risk of HIV outbreaks due to displaced people moving from war-affected regions to areas with higher risk of transmission. The research suggests that harm reduction services should be scaled up and international support provided to prevent further transmission.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Preterm babies may suffer setbacks in auditory brain development, speech

A new study found that preterm babies experience delays in auditory brain development, which are associated with speech and language impairments at age 2. The researchers used diffusion neuroimaging to track the development of the primary and nonprimary auditory cortex in the brains of preterm infants.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournaleNeuro·DateJan 15, 2018

Scientists home in on a potential Anthropocene 'Golden Spike'

A global reference section for the Anthropocene might be searched for in areas between 1952 to 1955 based on nuclear testing and fossil fuel burning signals. Continuous annually layered strata, such as those found in oxygen-starved seas, lakes, glacial ice, corals, and trees with seasonal growth rings, provide the best geological archive.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalEarth-Science Reviews·DateJan 15, 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.

Zoology: Luminescent lizards

Chameleons' bony tubercles on their heads emit blue fluorescent light when exposed to UV, creating distinct patterns that aid in species recognition. This phenomenon was previously unknown and is believed to play a role in mate attraction.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 15, 2018

Lifting barriers to citizenship for low-income immigrants

The study found that low-income immigrants are deterred from applying for US citizenship due to the high cost of the application process, with costs rising by 800% since 1985. A new public-private program, NaturalizeNY, offers vouchers covering the fee, doubling the application rate among recipients.

SourceStanford University - Immigration Policy Lab·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Algorithm for predicting speech development

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm using MRI data to predict speech development in children with cochlear implants. The study found that neural preservation underlies improved speech in young CI recipients.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Confined movements: How cells form tubes in confined spaces

A team of scientists developed a novel platform to study lumen formation in epithelial tubes, which can lead to diseases like atherosclerosis and kidney failure. The 3D microtube setup allows cells to form tubes under different physical constraints, revealing the importance of mechanical forces in tissue development.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 15, 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.

Unexpected environmental source of methane discovered

Researchers uncover an enzymatic pathway in certain microorganisms that produces both ammonia and methane simultaneously. This previously unknown route for natural methane production has significant implications for understanding microbial interactions and the environment.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJan 15, 2018

New Carnegie Mellon dynamic statistical model follows gene expressions over time

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new dynamic statistical model to visualize changing patterns in networks, including gene expression during developmental periods of the brain. The model, Persistent Communities by Eigenvector Smoothing (PisCES), combines information across multiple networks over time to identif...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Rising obesity and mortality rates in the United States

Rising US obesity has been linked to exceptionally slow mortality rate improvements and increased life expectancy gaps with other wealthy countries. The study found that a 0.54% reduction in annual death rate gains was associated with the rise in maximum lifetime body mass index.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Study: Pulsating dissolution found in crystals

German researchers observed pulses of dissolution in dissolving crystals, marked by waves spreading from etch pits and screw dislocations. These findings challenge the long-held assumption that dissolution is a continuous process.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

An emergency response to Canada's opioid overdose crisis

A commentary argues that Canada should develop a regulated program to distribute pharmaceutical-grade opioids to people at highest risk of overdose. This approach aims to provide safer alternatives to illegal sources of pain relief, reducing the protracted epidemic of overdose deaths.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 15, 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.

Armed conflict and HIV spread in Ukraine

Conflict-induced displacement of people in eastern Ukraine has been shown to drive the spread of HIV within the country. The largest exporters of viral lineages were regions of Donetsk and Lugansk, which then spread to central and southern regions, as well as cities like Kyiv and Odessa.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 15, 2018

Danish researchers reveal how the MRSA bacterium handles stress

Researchers at Aarhus University have determined a fundamental mechanism by which staphylococci bacteria handle stress when exposed to antibiotics. The discovery reveals that bacteria produce an enzyme capable of modifying DNA building blocks into signal molecules, allowing them to survive antibiotic treatment.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 15, 2018

An efficient approach of conjugated tetraenes from butadiene and alkynes

Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have developed a one-pot approach to synthesizing conjugated tetraenes from inexpensive reagents, eliminating waste production and simplifying the process. The new method has potential applications in electronic materials, natural products, and pharmaceutical molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalOrganometallics·DateJan 15, 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.

Mysteries of a promising spintronic material revealed

Researchers at UC Riverside used ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy to investigate the strength of electron spin interactions with phonons in antiferromagnetic nickel oxide crystals. The study sheds light on long-standing puzzles surrounding this material and has important implications for developing spintronic devices.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 15, 2018