Beaker Briefs

The yeti is no more. A UB researcher analyzed DNA from nine samples of bone, teeth, skin, hair and feces allegedly belonging to the mythological yeti, an apelike creature said to terrorize the Himalayas. The results linked eight specimens to Asian bears. The remaining sample belonged to a dog.

Led by: Biological sciences researcher Charlotte Lindqvist

While symptoms of schizophrenia typically appear in adolescence, new UB-led research revealed that the mental disorder forms during early pregnancy. Using stem cells from patients with schizophrenia, researchers created "minibrains" to simulate brain formation in the womb. The discovery opens the window for development of treatments in utero and thereafter.

Led by: Pathology and anatomical sciences researcher Michal K. Stachowiak

New technology developed by UB researchers can trace a single photo back to the smartphone that captured it and reliably detect fake photos fabricated by cybercriminals. Using an invisible pattern unique to each camera, the technology could join PINs and passwords in authentication processes to protect privacy.

Led by: Computer science and engineering researcher Kui Ren