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Science News for January 18, 2019


Charité leads on three new EU-funded projects

Charité is leading three new EU-funded projects: ReSHAPE, VirtualBrainCloud, and ENDOSCAPE. The ReSHAPE project aims to develop a treatment for transplant rejection using regulatory T cells, while VirtualBrainCloud creates personalized brain simulations for neurodegenerative diseases. ENDOSCOPE develops non-viral gene delivery technolo...

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·DateJan 18, 2019

Why do Hydra end up with just a single head?

Researchers at UNIGE discovered the identity of Hydra's inhibitor, protein Sp5, which maintains a single-headed adult body and regulates regenerative response. The mechanism has been conserved throughout evolution, suggesting potential therapeutic applications in human tumors.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Mangrove patches deserve greater recognition no matter the size

Scientists at ZSL urge governments to prioritize the conservation of small mangrove patches despite their size, highlighting the critical ecosystem services they provide. The loss of these habitats threatens critically endangered species and coastal communities, and could exacerbate climate change impacts.

SourceZoological Society of London·JournalScience·DateJan 18, 2019

Is marketing of opioids to physicians associated with overdose deaths?

A study found that increased opioid marketing to physicians was associated with higher prescribing rates and subsequent overdose deaths. The analysis, which analyzed industry marketing data and national opioid prescribing and death data, reported $40 million in targeted marketing efforts across over 2,200 counties.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Signs of memory problems could be symptoms of hearing loss instead

A recent Baycrest study found that many older adults being evaluated for memory concerns had mild to severe hearing loss. Addressing hearing issues may mitigate or fix what appears to be a memory problem. Hearing loss is a common chronic condition affecting 50% of those over 65 and 90% of those over 80.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalCanadian Journal on Aging / La Revue canadienne du vieillissement·DateJan 18, 2019

'Happiness' exercises can boost mood in those recovering from substance use disorder

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that brief happiness exercises can significantly increase in-the-moment happiness for adults recovering from substance use disorders. The study suggests these exercises may be promising tools for bolstering happiness during treatment and supporting long-term recovery.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment·DateJan 18, 2019

Otoliths -- the fish's black box -- also keeps an eye on the metabolism

Researchers have shown that fish otoliths record information on fish metabolism, providing a unique window into how species adapt to changing conditions. By analyzing the carbon isotopes in otoliths, scientists can infer the fish's activity level and metabolic rate, offering new insights into climate change impacts.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Tinkering with public debt we doom innovation and growth

Research by Bocconi University finds that public debt increases the cost of capital for innovative firms, forcing them to choose only profitable projects over riskier ones, ultimately affecting national GDP growth. A high public debt can lead to a 4% decline in GDP growth after five years compared to a normal debt level.

SourceBocconi University·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateJan 18, 2019

UNIST research team received Minister of Science and ICT Award

The UNIST research team has been awarded the Minister of Science and ICT Award for their study on clarifying the concept and scope of Industry 4.0 using big data analytics and artificial intelligence. The team identified key convergence R&D issues, including infrastructure development, AI development, and industrial innovation.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJan 18, 2019

Researchers find new ways to harness wasted methane

Researchers have developed a high-performance catalyst for converting methane to formaldehyde using nanomaterials and a core-shell structure. The catalyst has a stable structure and high reactivity at high temperatures, increasing efficiency by more than twice as much as before.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJournal of Catalysis·DateJan 18, 2019

Smart microrobots that can adapt to their surroundings

Researchers have created biocompatible microrobots inspired by bacteria that can swim through fluids and modify their shape as needed. These devices use embodied intelligence to navigate complex systems without compromising speed or maneuverability.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Targeting 'hidden pocket' for treatment of stroke and seizure

Researchers have identified a pH-sensitive pocket in the NMDA receptor that can be targeted by redesigned compounds, offering specificity for stroke and seizure treatments. The 94-series compounds show promise in preventing excessive neuronal firing without affecting healthy brain regions.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2019

Exposure to chemicals during pregnancy is not associated with an increase in blood pressure

A recent study published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health found no association between exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy and an increase in blood pressure. In fact, higher exposure to phthalates, BPA, and parabens was linked to a decrease in blood pressure, particularly in the second trimester.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateJan 18, 2019

Plant peptide helps roots to branch out in the right places

A Japanese research team identified a plant peptide that helps lateral roots grow with the right spacing. The TOLS2 gene was found to be expressed in lateral root founder cells and inhibits their formation, while the RLK7 receptor suppresses nearby cell growth.

SourceKobe University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJan 18, 2019

Antibodies to a retina protein to be used as a kidney cancer marker

Scientists at Sechenov University have discovered a new highly sensitive and quick method for diagnosing kidney cancer using antibodies to a retina protein. The method measures the immune response to arrestin-1, which is synthesized in cancerous cells of kidneys, and has been shown to detect benign growths at early stages.

SourceSechenov University·JournalBiochimie·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

How gut bacteria affect the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Researchers found that gut microbiota can convert levodopa into dopamine, reducing its effectiveness in treating Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that the presence of bacterial tyrosine decarboxylase enzyme contributes to this effect.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2019

Some pregnant women don't believe cannabis is harmful to their fetus

A new review by UBC researchers found that up to one-third of pregnant women do not believe cannabis is harmful to their fetus. The study suggests that perceptions about cannabis use influence decision-making among pregnant women. Women who used cannabis during pregnancy were more likely to be under 25, unemployed, or have low income a...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJan 18, 2019

Placentas adapt when mothers have poor diets or low oxygen during pregnancy

Cambridge researchers have discovered that placentas can adapt to function properly despite poor diets or low oxygen during pregnancy, impacting on pregnancy outcomes and lifelong health. This adaptation helps the placenta transport sufficient oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, mitigating complications such as fetal growth restriction.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2019

Liver cancer patients can be treated for Hep C infection

A large study found no significant difference in liver cancer recurrence between patients treated with direct-acting antivirals for hepatitis C. The treatment was also shown to reduce the aggressiveness of cancer when it did recur. This new data reassures providers that treating Hep C is safe and beneficial for these patients.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 18, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

UNIST faculty member named as potential Nobel Prize winner

Distinguished Professor Ruoff has been recognized by Clarivate Analytics as a probable winner of the physics prize for his work on carbon-based materials, including capacitive energy storage and supercapacitors. He is one of 17 top-tier scientists selected globally.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJan 18, 2019

Home-based hypertension program produces 'striking' results

A pilot study at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that an innovative home-based care-delivery program helped 81% of participants achieve blood pressure control in seven weeks. The program used Bluetooth-enabled blood pressure devices and patient navigators to facilitate rapid assessment and medication adjustments.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalClinical Cardiology·DateJan 18, 2019

Gene therapy promotes nerve regeneration

Researchers have made a breakthrough in treating nerve damage by combining neurosurgical repair with gene therapy, which stimulates the survival of nerve cells and regeneration of nerve fibers. The discovery is an important step towards developing a new treatment for people with nerve damage.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalBrain·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

UNIST professor honored with '2018 National Top 12 R&D Performance'

UNIST professors Eunmi Choi and Yong Hwan Kim received recognition for their groundbreaking research on remote detection of hazardous radioactive substances. Their innovative technology has the potential to detect radioactivity from tens of kilometers away, revolutionizing radiation detection.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateJan 18, 2019

Researchers examine how musicians communicate non-verbally during performance

A team of researchers at McMaster University discovered a way to analyze how musicians intuitively coordinate with each other during performances, predicting their movements to convey emotions. The study found that musicians predicted each other's movements more when playing expressively than non-expressively.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 18, 2019

Researchers discover synaptic logic for connections between two brain hemispheres

Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience developed a new method to identify functional properties of individual synapses linking the two hemispheres. They found that callosal inputs and local inputs with similar orientation preference are clustered within the dendritic field, enabling coordinated network activity.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNeuron·DateJan 18, 2019

Mediterranean freshwater fish species susceptible to climate change

A new study reveals that many European freshwater fish species, especially those in the Mediterranean region, are threatened by climate change. The research identifies regions and species particularly susceptible to rising water temperatures and changing habitats.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Researchers identify specific cognitive deficits in individuals with spinal cord injury

A multidisciplinary team of researchers found specific cognitive deficits in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), including information processing speed and verbal fluency impairments. These findings support the theory of accelerated brain aging after SCI, with implications for further research and targeted cognitive interventions.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Spinal Cord Medicine·DateJan 18, 2019

Green turtle: The success of the reintroduction program in Cayman Islands

A study by University of Barcelona researchers found that the green turtle reintroduction program in Cayman Islands has successfully recovered the species' population, with a high genetic diversity. The program's success is attributed to careful management and monitoring, ensuring the long-term survival of the species.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateJan 18, 2019

Hand-knitted molecules

Researchers from Empa successfully synthesized chain-shaped molecules between two microscopically small gold tips. The properties of the resulting molecule can be monitored in real time during synthesis, enabling the creation of electrically conductive molecules with atomic precision.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2019

No substantial benefit from transplantation reported for a high-risk leukemia subtype

A new study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that high-risk leukemia patients did not experience improved long-term survival with bone marrow transplantation. Treatment guided by measuring minimal residual disease was associated with better outcomes, with 58% of patients becoming long-term survivors.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Using bacteria to create a water filter that kills bacteria

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a novel membrane technology that purifies water while preventing biofouling using bacterial nanocellulose and reduced graphene oxide. The new membrane can filter water twice as fast as commercially available ultrafiltration membranes and is environmentally friendly.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 18, 2019

Does being bilingual make children more focused? Study says no

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that bilingualism does not improve executive functions in children, including remembering instructions and controlling responses. Researchers used a computer test to compare the cognitive abilities of Turkish-German bilingual and monolingual children between ages 5-15.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 18, 2019

New study shows physician-targeted marketing is associated with increase in opioid overdose deaths

A new study found that increased marketing of opioid products to physicians is associated with higher opioid prescribing rates and elevated overdose deaths in the US. The research suggests that even low-value payments or subtle marketing tactics can influence physician prescribing patterns, leading to more overdose deaths.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 18, 2019
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Have new appointment wait times improved at VA health care system?

A study by the US Department of Veterans Affairs found that new appointment wait times have decreased at VA medical centers, making it easier for veterans to access healthcare services. The research compared primary care, dermatology, cardiology, and orthopedics appointments in 15 major metropolitan areas.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 18, 2019

New therapeutic avenue in the fight against chronic liver disease

Researchers at UNIST have discovered that endotrophin plays a crucial role in producing a pathological microenvironment in liver tissues of chronic liver disease. ETP levels are associated with metabolic dysfunction and systemic insulin resistance, making it a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·DateJan 18, 2019

Enhanced NMR reveals chemical structures in a fraction of the time

MIT researchers have developed a new NMR technique that enhances sensitivity, enabling the analysis of complex protein structures in minutes. This breakthrough could provide insights into Alzheimer's and other diseases by studying amyloid beta protein and membrane-bound proteins.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 18, 2019
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.

Classic double-slit experiment in a new light

A research team at the University of Cologne has successfully performed a variant of the double-slit experiment using resonant inelastic X-ray scattering. The experiment provided valuable information about the dynamic physical properties of solids and proved a fundamental theoretical prediction from 1994.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 18, 2019