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Artificial synaptic device simulating the function of human brain

Researchers at DGIST developed an artificial synaptic device that simulates the human brain's memory function. The device uses tantalum oxide to mimic synapses and has overcome durability limitations of current devices. It can store multiple values, reducing power consumption by over one-thousandth compared to digital signals.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 6, 2018

Effective TB, HIV, malaria vaccines missing from pipeline

A study analyzing 538 vaccine candidates found that only about 128 are likely to reach the market, with many critical products lacking. The researchers estimate it would cost $16.3 billion to move current candidates through the pipeline, highlighting the need for increased investment and innovative approaches.

SourceDuke University·JournalGates Open Research·DateSep 4, 2018

Patent mining indicates promising routes for research

A patent mining method developed by Brazilian scientists uses big data tools to identify technological routes, trends, and partnerships in various knowledge areas. The method has been validated in an analysis of studies on hemophilia, revealing a promising molecule called XTEN that can extend the half-life of recombinant factor VIII.

Next-generation metabolomics may facilitate the discovery of new antidepressants

Next-generation metabolomics may facilitate the discovery of new antidepressants by providing broader coverage and higher resolution than traditional methods. The technique has demonstrated great potential in accelerating pharmaceutical R&D, particularly for natural products like albiflorin, a promising multi-target drug candidate.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateAug 6, 2018

Model fuses social media, remote sensing data with goal of identifying nuclear threats

The model uses mathematical equations to translate incompatible data streams into a neutral format, enabling comparison and analysis of satellite imagery and social media posts. Researchers tested the model using data from a 2013 flood in Colorado, resolving incompatibility issues and accurately estimating flooding locations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJul 23, 2018

Building blocks of life

Researchers at Shinshu University have developed proteins that can self-assemble into complex nanostructures, a breakthrough in biomolecular engineering and synthetic biology. The new protein complexes can be designed to produce various chain-like structures on demand, opening up possibilities for innovative applications in biotechnology.

SourceShinshu University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateJul 19, 2018

Young toddlers may learn more from interactive than noninteractive media

Research suggests that younger toddlers benefit more from interactive digital media than traditional TV and videos. Interactive features help children connect screen experiences to real-world interactions. However, not all types of interactivity are beneficial, and individual differences play a significant role in learning outcomes.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development Perspectives·DateMay 22, 2018

How companies can help safeguard intellectual property when expanding into risky countri

New research from the University of Notre Dame shows that firms can protect their intellectual property by operating regionally through downstream commercialization activities. This approach helps substitute weak country-level protection with complementary assets offered at the regional level, creating barriers to imitation for competi...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateMay 7, 2018

Formate prevents most folic acid-resistant neural tube defects in mice

Researchers have discovered that formate supplementation can prevent most neural tube defects in mice that are resistant to folic acid treatment. The study found that disrupting formate synthesis was linked to the development of these defects, and that providing pregnant mice with extra formate could prevent them. These findings offer ...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2018

UNC-Chapel Hill and partners awarded $58.1 million to accelerate research discoveries

The UNC-Chapel Hill-led Clinical and Translational Science Award Program will broaden its reach across North Carolina by continuing its alliance with RTI International and NC A&T State University and adding a formal partnership with North Carolina State University. The grant will support the advancement of clinical and translational re...

Toward a new water paradigm

A four-year grant will support the Program on Water, Health & Development (WHD) in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Ethiopia and Uganda. WHD aims to develop concrete plans for expanding water services to all residents within a target district, guided by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

ACP calls for a 'time out' to assess and revise approach to performance measurement

The American College of Physicians is calling for a revised approach to performance measurement, citing 32 valid and 30 invalid measures in Medicare's MIPS program. The ACP analyzed 86 performance measures and found that many were inadequately specified, leading to misclassification of high-quality care as low-quality care.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 18, 2018