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Science News Archive January 2018 - Page 8


Page 8 of 37

A new strategy induces the regression of advanced lung tumors in mice

Researchers develop a genetic model that eliminates c-Raf kinase, causing tumor regression with low toxicity; validation opens new possibilities for therapies against KRAS-driven cancers. Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 25, 2018

Ancient Eurasian DNA sequencing is revealing links with modern humans

Direct DNA sequencing is uncovering unexpected genetic connections between ancient and modern populations in Eurasia, suggesting early gene flow or population structure that led to Europeans and Asians. Genetic analyses also reveal Neanderthal ancestry and mixing events, providing new insights into human prehistory.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Genetics·DateJan 25, 2018

Using virtual reality to identify brain areas involved in memory

A study published in Nature Communications used virtual reality to train subjects, then showed that different areas of the hippocampus are activated for different types of memories. The researchers found that the hippocampus is involved in linking similar experiences and encoding time and space information.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 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.

Where humans set up camp, animals roam much shorter distances

New study finds that mammal movements are reduced by up to three-fold in areas with high human activity, affecting not only individual animals but also ecosystems. Movement distances vary by species and resource availability, suggesting a complex interplay between humans and wildlife.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Cancer researchers hit a bullseye with new drug target for Ewing sarcoma

Cancer researchers have identified CDK12 inhibitors as a potential treatment option for Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. The inhibitors show promise in killing Ewing sarcoma cells and can be combined with PARP inhibitors to increase effectiveness. This breakthrough brings hope to the pediatric oncology field, whic...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 25, 2018

Padres Pedal the Cause provides $2.4 million for cancer research

The organization raised $2.4 million to fund groundbreaking science at the Salk Institute, Rady Children's Hospital, Moores Cancer Center, and Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute. This funding supports collaborative, translational research with a focus on clinical trials.

SourceSalk Institute·DateJan 25, 2018

Even the tiniest aerosol particles can kick up a storm

A new study suggests that ultrafine aerosol particles can increase cloud formation and warm surrounding air, intensifying thunderstorm-causing clouds in the Amazonian tropics. This finding highlights the potential for human-made aerosols to influence global weather patterns.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Letting silenced genes speak

Researchers at UConn Health have reversed Prader-Willi syndrome in lab-grown brain cells by targeting the ZNF274 protein, which silences many genes. The breakthrough provides clues for treating this genetic disorder and offers new hope for patients with life-threatening childhood obesity.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 25, 2018

Quantum race accelerates development of silicon quantum chip

Researchers have successfully coupled a single electron spin and a single photon on a silicon chip, enabling the transfer of quantum information between them. This breakthrough paves the way for scaling up quantum bits on silicon chips, a crucial step towards creating more powerful quantum computers.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Discovery offers new genetic pathway for injured nerve regeneration

Researchers at UC San Diego have identified a new genetic pathway that plays an active role in neuron damage regeneration. The discovery of the PIWI-interacting small RNA (piRNA) pathway could offer therapeutic targets for helping neurons regrow after traumatic injuries and stroke.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNeuron·DateJan 25, 2018

Billions of plastic items are sickening coral reefs

A new study found that 11.1 billion plastic items are lodged on coral reefs across the Asia-Pacific region, increasing the risk of coral disease by 85x. Plastic debris is linked to a 20-fold increased risk of disease, particularly skeletal eroding band disease.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 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.

Do western societies promote narcissism?

Researchers found that people from Western Germany have higher levels of narcissism than those from Eastern Germany, with a greater impact on the younger generation. Self-esteem scores were opposite, with East Germans recording higher scores.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 25, 2018

Recycling and reusing worn cathodes to make new lithium ion batteries

A new recycling method restores used cathode particles from spent lithium ion batteries, restoring charge storage capacity, charging time, and battery lifetime. The process reduces energy consumption compared to other methods and aims to address environmental concerns and economic issues related to battery waste.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2018

Thin is in? Think again

US women's perceptions of the perfect female figure have evolved to a thin and toned ideal, according to a recent study led by Frances Bozsik. The research found that recent Miss USA winners are no longer only exemplifying extreme thinness, but also becoming increasingly muscular over the past 15 years.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 25, 2018

Study links low carbohydrate intake to increased risk of birth defects

A new study found that women with low carbohydrate intake are 30% more likely to have babies with neural tube defects. Folic acid supplementation is crucial for minimizing this risk, as many women may not take a daily multivitamin before and during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalBirth Defects Research·DateJan 25, 2018

Light-triggered nanoparticles show promise against metastatic cancer

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed a novel technique using nanoparticles and light to target and kill metastatic cancer cells. The technique, which harnesses the power of chemotherapy drugs and radiation, shows promise in treating multiple myeloma and aggressive breast cancer.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 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.

Historical migrations left genetic footprints on the Irish genome

A study of Irish genomes reveals 23 distinct clusters separated by geography, with British ancestry influencing western populations. The research also detects genetic input from Europe and estimates the timing of historical migrations, including those of the Norse-Vikings and Anglo-Normans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 25, 2018

Scientists discover stem cells that build a fly's nervous system

Researchers uncover new insights into how stem cells transform into brain cells controlling leg movements in fruit flies, with implications for understanding comparable systems in humans. The study finds that two critical cell types, born from the same stem cell, facilitate the construction of a mature motor system.

SourceThe Zuckerman Institute at Columbia University·JournalNeuron·DateJan 25, 2018

Distinct brain rhythms, regions help us reason about categories

A new study at MIT's Picower Institute explains how the brain achieves category abstractions through distinct rhythms in the prefrontal cortex. When matching images with close resemblance, gamma rhythms were crucial, while beta rhythms played a key role when abstraction was needed.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNeuron·DateJan 25, 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.

Air pollution linked to irregular menstrual cycles

Research reveals exposure to air pollution during high school is correlated with menstrual cycle irregularity, potentially affecting reproductive health. The findings suggest reducing emissions could mitigate human disease implications.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJan 25, 2018

Researchers overcome obstacle for future stem cell therapies

Scientists have discovered a protein called Setd7 that regulates stem cell growth and differentiation. Inhibiting this protein allows stem cells to remain undifferentiated, facilitating tissue regeneration and improved muscle function.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 25, 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.

Heart cells sense stiffness by measuring contraction forces and resting tension simultaneously

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered a new mechanism by which heart cells sense stiffness, involving both contraction forces and resting tension. The study found increased resting tension in heart cells after a heart attack or disease, leading to abnormal mechanosensing and signalling that contributes to heart fail...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 25, 2018

Study of 3,000 drinkers' attempts to cut down produces sobering results

A study of nearly 3,000 drinkers found that only a small percentage successfully reduced their alcohol consumption over six months. Despite good intentions, motivation alone is insufficient for reducing intake, with structural support and tools like smartphone apps potentially being effective.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAddiction·DateJan 25, 2018

Humans take up too much space -- and it's affecting how mammals move

A study found that human footprint reduces mammalian movement by two to three times, with no geographic or size-based exceptions. This affects ecosystem functions like nutrient transport and food web interactions, highlighting the need for further research on critical thresholds in human land use.

SourceField Museum·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Mechanism of familial Parkinson's disease clarified in fruit fly model

A study using fruit fly models reveals that a genetic mutation in the DNAJC13 gene leads to the accumulation of α-synuclein protein, causing motor dysfunction and neurodegeneration. This finding provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of familial Parkinson's disease and may lead to the development of disease-modifying thera...

SourceOsaka University·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateJan 25, 2018
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

When the 'guardian' and the 'caretaker' of the genome join forces

Biologists from Konstanz, Ulm, and Karlsruhe decipher the biochemical mechanism of p53 and PARP-1 interaction, significant for tumour biology. The study reveals that the protein p53 is modified through interaction with the enzyme PARP-1, which has far-reaching implications for its regulation.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 25, 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.

Simple test speeds recognition of posterior stroke

A simple test has shown significant improvement in the recognition of possible posterior strokes by medical professionals. The finger-to-nose test, which assesses coordination and balance, doubled recognition rates for this type of stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJan 25, 2018

Scientists discover oldest known modern human fossil outside of Africa

The discovery of the Misliya fossil suggests that Homo sapiens left Africa at least 50,000 years earlier than previously thought. The fossil, found in Israel, is between 175,000-200,000 years old and provides evidence of modern humans meeting and interacting with other archaic human groups.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Missing in action

A UCSB ecologist reconstructed the story of the missing foothill yellow-legged frog, finding a link to chytridiomycosis. The amphibian declined rapidly between 1960s and 1970s due to disease spread by the fungal pathogen.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJan 25, 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.

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.

Humans limit animal movements

A global study using GPS data from over 800 animals found that terrestrial mammalian movements in areas with a high human footprint are significantly reduced. This fragmentation of habitats due to human infrastructure can have severe consequences for ecosystems, including changes in seed dispersal, food chains, and population sizes.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Humans get in the way of mammal movement

A global study finds human alterations to natural habitats reduce mammal travel distances by at least half, with some species relying on humans for resources. This disruption can impact ecosystems and food webs.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Repurposed drug found to be effective against Zika virus

Researchers found that a repurposed drug used to treat Hepatitis C effectively protected and rescued neural cells infected by the Zika virus in both cell cultures and mouse models. The study suggests that the drug could be effective against Zika-infected adults, including pregnant women.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2018

Specific protein plays key role in the spread of breast cancer

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have found that macrophages express insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) 1 and 2, which support breast cancer metastasis. The study suggests a significant reduction in tumour cell growth and lung metastasis when IGFs are blocked with paclitaxel.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalOncogene·DateJan 25, 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.

Energy supply channels

Scientists at the University of Freiburg have elucidated the mechanism of protein insertion into the mitochondrial outer membrane. The discovery sheds light on the formation and function of mitochondria, which play a crucial role in cellular energy production.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience·DateJan 25, 2018

Shape-shifting organic crystals use memory to improve plastic electronics

The discovery of a shape-memory mechanism in synthetic organic materials could lead to advancements in low-power electronics and medical devices. The researchers found that the transformation process is driven by concerted movement of molecules, enabling reversible and ultrafast shape changes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 2018

'Forgotten' antibiotic offers hope against worst superbugs

Researchers have re-evaluated an overlooked antibiotic, increasing its effectiveness against extensively drug-resistant bacteria. Octapeptin showed superior antimicrobial activity to colistin against resistant Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateJan 25, 2018
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

The eye is not immune to immunity

A recent study published in Scientific Reports suggests that the eye is not as immune as previously thought, with some components being accessible to immune cells. This discovery has implications for wound healing and changes in vision such as cataracts, and may change the way we think about eye disorders.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2018

NASA poised to topple a planet-finding barrier

Scientists have made significant progress in developing an ultra-stable telescope capable of detecting Earth-like planets and analyzing their atmospheres for signs of life. The team has successfully measured subatomic- or picometer-sized distortions across a five-foot segmented mirror, paving the way for future missions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 25, 2018

New tool visualizes employment trends in biomedical science

A new method developed by NIH researchers uses a novel approach to categorize and visualize career outcomes of postdoctoral fellows, revealing distinct differences between US and international postdocs. The study found that nearly half of NIEHS postdocs went into the academic sector, contrary to common assumptions.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJan 24, 2018

Artificial sweetener could someday provide cancer treatments with fewer side effects

Researchers have discovered that acesulfame potassium, an artificial sweetener widely used in foods and drinks, could lead to the development of a more selective therapy for aggressive cancers. The compound is more selective towards carbonic anhydrase IX than previously studied saccharin, potentially offering fewer side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateJan 24, 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.

New biosensor could monitor glucose levels in tears and sweat

Researchers developed an ultra-thin, flexible sensor that can track glucose levels in tears and sweat for improved diabetes monitoring. The biosensor detects a range of glucose concentrations and is flexible enough to be incorporated into contact lenses or watches.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJan 24, 2018