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Science News Archive January 2018 - Page 14


Page 14 of 37

Developing the VTX-1 liquid biopsy system: Fast and label-free enrichment of circulating tumor cells

The VTX-1 Liquid Biopsy System is a commercial, automated instrument that isolates clinically relevant CTC populations directly from whole blood. It achieves high recovery rates of spiked breast and lung cancer cell lines, with purities as low as <100 white blood cells per mL of processed blood.

How cells are able to turn

Researchers have demonstrated that cells navigate using molecular force from within, enabling them to turn and potentially leading to the development of new drugs. This discovery was made possible by the study of integrins, which are essential for cell interactions.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 2018

Study examines differences in hip fracture rates among nursing homes

A nationally representative study found considerable variation in US nursing home hip fracture rates among facilities. The majority of the variation remained unexplained by measured characteristics, but psychotropic medication prescribing and staffing requirements emerged as plausible targets for initiatives to reduce hip fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 22, 2018

Researchers find latent HIV reservoirs inherently resistant to elimination by CD8+ T-cells

A recent study found that latent HIV reservoirs exhibit inherent resistance to CD8+ T-cells, making it challenging to eliminate the virus. Researchers at George Washington University used their most powerful combinations against these cells, but were unable to kill the virus, which remained present at high levels.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 22, 2018

Inverse-design approach leads to metadevices

The Northwestern University team developed highly efficient metadevices at millimeter-wave frequencies using inverse design principles and 3D printing. This approach starts with a function and asks what structure is needed to achieve the desired result, producing unexpected outcomes like broad bandwidth functionality.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 22, 2018

Study reveals perceived gender bias against women is dominant factor in college major choice

A new study published in the American Educational Research Journal found that perceived gender bias is the most predictive attribute of whether a female chooses a college major. The study suggests that college administrators should examine the environments in different majors to increase female representation. Additionally, women are m...

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateJan 22, 2018

Genes contribute to biological motion perception and its covariation with autistic traits

A study has linked individual variation in biological motion perception to genetic factors, revealing a common genetic basis for heritable aspects of BM perception and autistic traits. Genetic influences account for up to 50% of individual variation in local kinematics processing, while environmental factors shape global configuration ...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

The ins and outs of Area 25

Neuroscientists have created a detailed map of the connections in the subgenual cingulate area 25 (A25) of non-human primates. The research reveals strong links between A25 and brain areas involved in emotional regulation, stress response, and memory formation.

A better HIV test

A new test developed by Stanford chemists combines the convenience of spitting in a cup with the reliability of blood tests to detect HIV infections earlier. The test was shown to correctly diagnose 22 people and demonstrate improved sensitivity compared to existing saliva tests.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

New fuel cell technology runs on solid carbon

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have developed a new fuel cell technology powered by solid carbon, which can utilize three times as much carbon as earlier designs. The innovation enables lower temperatures and higher power densities, making it potentially more efficient than conventional hydrogen fuel cells.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 22, 2018

Discrepancies between satellite and global model estimates of land water storage

Research found discrepancies between satellite and global model estimates of land water storage in 186 river basins worldwide. GRACE satellites measured changes in water storage, which differed from simulations made by seven commonly used models. The study highlights the need for improved regional assessments to ensure accurate water a...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Study may improve strategies for reducing nutrient runoff into Mississippi River

A new study examines nutrient loss reduction strategies from three upper Midwestern states and finds promise in certain practices like cover crops and bioreactors. The researchers also assess the trackability and stackability of these practices, which will aid decision makers in choosing specific conservation practices to adopt or avoid.

Ancient rice heralds a new future for rice production

Wild Australian rice's unique genetics hold the key to improving drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutritional benefits in commercial rice production. The study reveals that northern Australia's wild rices contain valuable genetic diversity closely related to domesticated rice, which can be cross-bred for improved crop resilience.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 22, 2018

Origin of hominids' reproductive success

Researchers found that human neurochemical profiles are consistent with enhanced sensitivity to social cues, promoting monogamy and reducing within-group aggression. Elevated serotonin and neuropeptide Y levels may have encouraged male provisioning, while a dopamine-dominated striatum could have led to increased brain size and language.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Vaccines not protecting farmed fish from disease

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers found that vaccines used by commercial fish farmers are not protecting fish from disease, with vaccinated fish showing more symptoms and higher death rates. The study highlights the need for veterinary pharmaceutical companies to redesign and test vaccines tailored to fish immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 22, 2018

Speech analysis software predicted psychosis in at-risk patients with up to 83 percent accuracy

A computer-based language classifier predicted psychosis in at-risk youths with up to 83% accuracy, identifying disturbances in speech flow and tangential thinking as indicative of psychosis. The technology has the potential to improve prediction and prevention of psychosis by targeting cognitive deficits.

Rutgers scientists discover 'Legos of life'

Researchers identified four fundamental building blocks for all proteins, which can be stacked together to form energy-rich molecules available to humans and other living organisms. The discovery could lead to applications in biomedical engineering, therapeutic proteins, and industrial catalysts.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Transportable laser

PTB physicists have developed a frequency-doubling unit that can endure transportation and maintain accuracy. The unit is based on a highly stable monolithic enhancement cavity for second harmonic generation, enabling reliable laser light for quantum-optical experiments.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 22, 2018

The scent of the city

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck used a sophisticated measurement method to create a chemical fingerprint of urban VOC emission sources. The study found that emissions from cosmetics, detergents, and food preparation contribute significantly to the total VOC burden, with some compounds leaving characteristic 'scent' in the air.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018