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Science News for February 16, 2017


Mothers and infants connect through song

Research from UM Frost School of Music found that infant-directed singing fosters a strong bond between mothers and infants. Engaging infants through song stimulates their attention, while also benefiting the mother by providing a distraction from negative emotions and thoughts associated with postpartum depression.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Music Therapy·DateFeb 16, 2017

Smokers’ memories could help them quit

A Michigan State University study found that smokers who viewed a nostalgic public service announcement showed greater emotional engagement and stronger negative attitudes towards smoking. The researchers argue that nostalgia-themed messages could be an effective way to promote healthy behaviors.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalCommunication Research Reports·DateFeb 16, 2017

Identifying vaccination capacity for future foot-and-mouth outbreaks

A mathematical model determines the best vaccination strategy in the presence of uncertainty surrounding vaccination efficacy and animal vaccination capacity. The study shows significant cost savings can be achieved by accurately identifying our capacity to vaccinate, with £55 million in outbreak costs potentially saved.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

HIV hijacks common cells to spread infection

Scientists discovered that fibroblasts, a type of connective tissue cell, increase HIV infection in immune cells through trans-infection and make them more prone to infection. Epithelial cells, on the other hand, secrete high levels of antiviral proteins that inhibit infection.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 16, 2017

Stepping up the hunt for genetic diseases

A new genomic technique has been devised to quickly and accurately detect imprinted genes expressed in each cell type, improving diagnosis of genetic diseases like Prader-Willi and Angelman syndrome. Researchers have identified novel imprinted genes and demonstrated their tissue-specific expression.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2017

A simple test allows to identify children prone to suffer cardiovascular diseases

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine analyzed data from over 9,000 children and adolescents to identify those with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The research found that a simple aerobic capacity test can determine which children have worse cardiovascular health and should undergo an intervention program.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateFeb 16, 2017

US icebreaker to visit New Zealand

The USCGC Polar Star's port call in Lyttelton marks a significant shift in US-New Zealand relations, allowing for increased cooperation on logistics and scientific research. The visit supports the US Antarctic Program's cargo operations and enables the efficient transportation of supplies to research stations.

Molecular patterns of complex diseases

A team of scientists has conducted the largest genome-wide association study on proteomics to date, revealing 539 associations between protein levels and genetic variants in complex diseases. The study found these associations overlap with risk genes for 42 complex conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Do you really get paid less if you're 'ugly'?

A study by Kanazawa and Still found that healthier and more intelligent people, as well as those with better personality traits, tend to earn higher salaries. In contrast, the 'ugliness premium' theory suggests that physically unattractive individuals earn less.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Business and Psychology·DateFeb 16, 2017

For mosquito repellents, stick with the spray

Researchers found that DEET and PMD-based sprays were the most effective at repelling Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, while wearable devices showed little to no effect. The study tested five wearable devices and five spray-on repellents, concluding that consumers should seek out the most effective products to avoid mosquito bites.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Insect Science·DateFeb 16, 2017

A case where smoking helped

Researchers found that a specific mutation in hemoglobin makes it selectively bind to carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke, preventing oxidation and anemia. The father's smoking habit prevents him from developing the disease, while his daughter requires treatment with antioxidants to manage her condition.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 16, 2017

Glowing mice suggest new gene therapy technique

A novel gene therapy technique, called charge-altering releasable transporters (CARTs), has been developed to deliver messenger RNA (mRNA) into cells. This method overcomes the challenge of delivering mRNA through cell membranes and shows promise for treating diseases by inserting therapeutic proteins.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 2017

Pizza, burgers and the like: A single high-fat meal can damage the metabolism

A single high-fat meal can reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin, leading to increased fat deposits in the liver and changes in energy metabolism. This study found that even a small amount of palm oil triggers insulin resistance, which can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 16, 2017

Same behavior outdoors and in the lab

Desert ants have an internal navigation system that allows them to measure distance by recording steps taken and orient themselves using the sun. In a lab experiment, researchers created a spherical treadmill for the ants to navigate on, showing high precision in their navigation skills.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 16, 2017

Four-stroke engine cycle produces hydrogen from methane and captures CO2

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a laboratory-scale system that produces green hydrogen at relatively low temperatures, capturing CO2 emissions. The CO2/H2 Active Membrane Piston (CHAMP) reactor can be scaled up or down to meet specific needs and operates more slowly than conventional engines.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateFeb 16, 2017

Encouraging signs for potential new antibiotic

A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy reveals that epidermicin is as effective as mupirocin in eradicating MRSA from cotton rats' nostrils. The results justify further development of epidermicin as an alternative to existing antimicrobial agents.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateFeb 16, 2017

Robbed of royalty: Mutilation and social determination of female Diacamma ants

A study on female Diacamma ants reveals that gene expression patterns primarily determine caste differentiation in nutrition-related genes. The research found that only a small number of genes differentiate the reproductive and worker castes, supporting the idea that increased energy requirement may drive eusociality evolution.