News on research labs and their facilities. Covers lunar research sites, national-lab partnerships, obesity classification, and cloud-lab funding.
A new study by AAAS finds that warming waters in the Gulf of Maine have contributed to the decline of New England cod stocks, despite strict quotas. The researchers used sea surface temperature data to show how ocean warming reduced cod production and led to overfishing.
Scientists developed a more general approach for controlling acoustic scattering on complex, odd-shaped objects using a coating of two thin fluid layers. The coating significantly reduces the scattering strength, allowing for ideal acoustic measurements in laboratories.
A national network of neurotechnology centers is proposed to accelerate the BRAIN Initiative, a decade-long scientific project with over $300 Million budget. The centers would tackle critical areas like Connectomics, Nanotechnology, and Optical Imaging, providing an alternative STEM career path for postdocs and graduate students.
Researchers have identified the protein Panoramix, which enables cells to silence specific genes and prevent transposons from disrupting genomes. This discovery provides new insights into the innate defense mechanisms against genetic elements that can cause sterility in animals.
Researchers aim to create ultra-high temperature materials using entropy-stabilized alloys, which can withstand temperatures of 2,000 degrees Celsius. The team will develop new experimental approaches and computational techniques to identify promising materials.
A mutation in a key enzyme affects sphingolipid levels, leading to neurodegeneration. Researchers found that increased 20-carbon sphingolipids cause problems with neuronal membranes.
Researchers from Osaka University successfully created highly unusual plasma composed of hollow atoms using ultra-bright X-ray sources. This discovery sheds light on extreme state atoms and may lead to industrial applications such as non-destructive x-ray testing and new material construction.
A recent analysis suggests that devastating ultra-rare mutations in vulnerable genes play a causal role in roughly half of all ASD cases. The study identifies 239 genes whose 'vulnerability' to such mutations makes them priority research targets.
An outbreak of Bordetella parapertussis was reported in southeastern Minnesota in 2014, with all affected children up to date on pertussis vaccines. The finding suggests that the vaccine may not protect against this lesser-known species.
SLAC's 'electron camera' visualizes ripples in 2D material for the first time, revealing atomic-level movements and guiding future device development. The breakthrough could lead to efficient solar cells, fast electronics and high-performance catalysts.
Canadians with nonspecific symptoms like joint pain and fatigue may receive false-positive results from commercial US laboratories, as many use unproven testing methods. Tests at the National Microbiology Laboratory of Canada using CDC guidelines are more accurate.
Researchers at CU-Boulder have developed a new technique for estimating sea ice concentration, improving US Navy forecasts by almost 40%. The blended input approach combines satellite data and human interpretation to capture smaller patches of sea ice, enhancing forecast accuracy.
Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain that rapidly inform multiple subregions of surprising rewards or punishments. These neurons enable flexibility in neuronal connections, allowing for plasticity and learning.
Krishnakumar Kizhatil has been awarded the prestigious Lewis Rudin Glaucoma Prize for his research on Schlemm's canal, a unique vessel that plays a key role in glaucoma. The prize recognizes Kizhatil's work as a major breakthrough in understanding the molecular basis of intraocular pressure elevation and its link to glaucoma.
A five-year, $9.97M grant will establish a new Center for Precision Genomics at JAX, leveraging the lab's expertise in mammalian genetics and disease modeling to develop precision models of disease. The Center will accelerate translation to medical benefit through global collaborations and shared resources.
A $1.5 million gift will support research in spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress (SMARD), a rare condition affecting fewer than 70 reported cases worldwide. The funding will enable the development of effective treatments and therapies for children impacted by this devastating disease.
Researchers aim to restore streams to their natural state with minimal cost and time investment. They will examine various restoration methods and sites to determine which techniques work best to achieve ecological benefits.
Charles R. Scriver is receiving the Victor A. McKusick Leadership Award from ASHG for his work in human genetics, particularly in discovering and addressing inherited metabolic diseases. He has also made significant contributions to public health through pediatric genetic screening programs and education.
An international team of scientists developed a robotic insect that can jump on water using the natural mechanics of water striders. The robot exerts up to 16 times its own body weight on the water's surface, mimicking the insects' ability to perform extreme maneuvers like jumping and flying with ease.
Researchers developed new diagnostic criteria to differentiate between malignant and benign mediastinal masses in children. The criteria use symptoms, laboratory tests, and CT scans to identify a better way to refine diagnoses, potentially leading to earlier detection of cancers like lymphomas and neuroblastomas.
Researchers found that obese adults have a heightened ability to imagine odors, particularly food and non-food smells, which may promote food cravings. This study's findings suggest the need for individualized approaches to identify factors contributing to weight gain.
A team of researchers led by UO doctoral student Kristin E. Sweeney conducted a series of experiments in small sandboxes to witness the formation of ridges and valleys in real-time. The study provides new insights into the competition between erosion driven by runoff and soil movement on hillsides, revealing how climate change may impa...
A new University of Michigan study suggests that napping may be an effective strategy to counteract impulsive behavior and boost tolerance for frustration. The study found that taking a nap increased participants' ability to persevere through difficult tasks.
A study found that most edible cannabis products sold in dispensaries carried labels with inaccurate THC levels, posing a risk to patients. The researchers called for better regulation and oversight of marijuana edibles to prevent overdosing and ensure accurate labeling.
A team of researchers has successfully developed a brain-machine interface that allows paralyzed individuals to remotely control robots with their thoughts. The technology has shown excellent results, enabling users to interact with the robot's surroundings and avoid obstacles without requiring any physical movement.
Chemists at Scripps Research Institute invent scalable method for synthesizing jiadifenolide, a plant-derived molecule with potential brain-protecting properties. The new eight-step synthesis yields gram to kilogram quantities, paving the way for further studies and development of a jiadafenolide-derived drug.
The Pew Charitable Trusts has named 10 postdoctoral scientists from Latin America to pursue research in the US with distinguished mentors. The fellows will focus on improving human health through bold approaches to biomedical research.
Researchers have developed an efficient method to deliver CRISPR/Cas9 system using electroporation, increasing genome editing speed and throughput in laboratory mice. This technique enables the creation of mouse models of human diseases with unprecedented efficiency and precision.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that the mammalian brain uses cortical feedback to distinguish between nearly identical odors. The team tracked neural signals and found specific responses to distinct scents, suggesting a 'sparse' response and amplification of certain odors.
Researcher Taylor Johnson aims to predict and control emergent behavior in cyber-physical systems, which can lead to unexpected performance or safety issues. He will develop formal specifications and verification methods to identify and mitigate potential problems.
Researchers predict that Mars' aurorae can be visible to the naked eye, displaying colors similar to those on Earth. The study suggests that carbon dioxide in the Martian atmosphere contributes to the formation of blue, green, and red aurorae.
Neurosurgeon authors establish a surgical skills laboratory and dissection curriculum for resident education, improving surgical skills and understanding of anatomical relationships. The program has been implemented at the Cleveland Clinic, providing a comprehensive training environment and enhancing future standards in surgical training.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a set of genes responsible for stem cell production in tomatoes, which explains the origin of the massive 'beefsteak' variety. By fine-tuning these genes, breeders can potentially customize fruit size in other crops.
A two-stage brain circuit is essential for tactile sensation, involving communication between the skin and brain. Mice were rendered unable to sense floor textures when their inner circuit was disabled, highlighting the critical role of this neural pathway in touch perception.
Researchers at the University of Iowa found no benefit from bone marrow transplantation in mice models of Rett syndrome, contradicting earlier findings. The study suggests that the initial results were due to factors other than those considered in the new experiment.
Scientists developed modified IL-2 molecules that can boost or block immune responses depending on the therapeutic application. These new forms of IL-2 have shown promising results in laboratory studies, including prolonged survival in a mouse model of graft-versus-host disease.
A new genomics laboratory in Liberia enables fast tracking of Ebola virus changes, which could impact diagnostics and therapeutics. The lab provides critical viral genomic information to support public health efforts.
Cedars-Sinai gastroenterologist Mark Pimentel has developed two simple blood tests that accurately diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in millions of people worldwide. The new blood tests identify specific antibodies reacting to toxins from bacteria, such as salmonella, and confirm IBS diagnosis with greater than 90% certainty.
A Dartmouth study found that playing a role-playing game called RePlay Health can shift attitudes towards public health issues, with players becoming more accepting and understanding of personal behaviors and health care costs.
A new study published in Nature Communications reveals a strong connection between high ozone days in the western US during late spring and La Niña events. This connection can be used to forecast ozone levels several months in advance, improving public education and air quality management in these regions.
A new device developed by French researchers can efficiently collect bed bugs without damaging them. The modified Dyson hand vacuum is effective in collecting adults, larvae, and eggs, and has the potential to increase monitoring and control levels of this pest insect.
A new device has been developed that can detect the presence of chikungunya virus in mosquitoes within an hour, revolutionizing the field of public health. This fast and easy-to-use test has the potential to save lives by enabling swift detection and control of disease outbreaks.
Physicists at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have developed a new Ytterbium:Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Yb:YAG) disk laser, which produces pulses lasting 7.7 femtoseconds and enables the study of ultrafast physical processes on attosecond timescales.
Scientists studying the Northern clingfish are exploring its unique ability to generate massive suction power in wet environments. This could lead to the development of bio-inspired medical devices, such as laparoscopic surgery tools, and non-invasive whale tagging systems.
Research found habitual gamblers exhibit probability matching behavior and perceive illusory patterns in random sequences. Gamblers are also less able to resist impulses, leading to impulsive betting decisions.
The University of Oklahoma and Nanowave Technologies will establish a research group to develop next-generation electromagnetic sensors. The collaboration aims to optimize hardware solutions for customers in the airborne weather radar and satellite communications markets.
The BMC protocol provides a set of predetermined guidelines for processing and preserving forensic evidence in surgical specimens after a terrorist attack. Key findings include the importance of identifying a team to handle all surgical specimens, obtaining labeled photographs and x-rays, and storing forensic evidence securely.
At American University, chemistry majors take charge of their research projects, allowing them to develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-motivation. The program's success has led to improved student engagement and satisfaction, with some students publishing research articles and receiving grants.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast created a unique perfume system that releases more of its aroma when it comes into contact with moisture, resulting in a better smell. The innovative system also removes the bad odors associated with sweat by attracting and neutralizing thiol compounds.
The International Human Frontier Science Program Organization has awarded eight young researchers with a total of $300,000 over three years to establish their independent laboratories. The awardees will support training in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research focused on the life sciences.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation causing a child's immune system dysfunction, leading to severe influenza. The study suggests that interferon amplification dependent on IRF7 expression is needed for protection against the virus.
Patients undergoing cardiac surgery may experience excessive bloodletting due to frequent lab tests, increasing the risk of hospital-acquired anemia. Reducing preoperative bloodletting is crucial to minimize complications during surgery.
A new study suggests that bicarbonate modifies the visual signal generated by rod and cone photoreceptors, leading to improved tracking of moving objects while slightly reducing sensitivity to light. The researchers hope to explore the potential of controlling bicarbonate levels in the eye to slow or prevent eye diseases.
Scientists have discovered iron-oxidizing bacteria living near sulfur-rich black-smoker hydrothermal vents along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. These unique chemosynthetic communities utilize iron as an energy source and are highly evolved to thrive in environments with abundant iron.
Researchers have determined the basic structural organization of the dynein-dynactin complex, a molecular motor responsible for cellular activities such as cell division and intracellular transport. The findings shed light on diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS, and could lead to new treatments.
New Northwestern University research suggests that real-world creativity may be associated with a reduced ability to filter 'irrelevant' sensory information. This 'leaky' sensory gating allows individuals to integrate ideas outside of focus, leading to creative achievements.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory successfully decoded how rats learned to associate specific sounds with rewards, revealing the neural mechanisms underlying auditory learning. The study provides a key insight into how memories are encoded in the brain and may have implications for understanding other sensory systems.
Alyson Santoro's research focuses on understanding archaea, essential components of nutrient cycles in the ocean. She aims to uncover how these microorganisms affect the earth's climate by studying areas with low oxygen zones. Her work has the potential to make substantial contributions to marine microbiology.
A new study by PETA found a staggering 73% increase in the number of animals used in US laboratories between 1997 and 2012, despite industry claims of reduced animal use. Mice usage accounted for a 72.7% increase due to genetic modification experiments.
A suite of globally harmonized test methods is needed to measure a wider selection of toxicants in cigarette smoke. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) must coordinate these methods to ensure reproducible and comparable results.