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Science News for January 16, 2017


HIV treatment might boost susceptibility to syphilis, say researchers

Researchers found that antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV infection may increase susceptibility to syphilis by boosting immune system activity and leading to more sexual partners. This could explain the rise in new cases of syphilis among gay/bisexual men over the past decade.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateJan 16, 2017
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.

Best treatment option written in cancer's genetic script

A study published in Nature Genetics has shown that a knowledge bank of patient data can be used to predict the best treatment option for people with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The tool takes into account individual genetic features, treatment schedule, and outcome, enabling therapeutic choices to become personalised. This approach...

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 16, 2017

Inception of the last ice age

The Eurasian ice sheet grew from small ice caps to a massive ice mass, nearly three times the size of modern-day Greenland, through a process driven by climate cycles and snowfall. The sheet's growth had a profound impact on regional climates, creating rain-shadow effects and desert conditions in western Russia and Siberia.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateJan 16, 2017

Galaxy murder mystery

A global team of researchers found that ram-pressure stripping is more prevalent than thought, driving gas from galaxies and preventing star formation. The study reveals that this process is potentially the dominant way galaxies are quenched by their surrounds, leading to an early death.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 16, 2017

Acupuncture may alleviate babies' excessive crying (infantile colic)

Research suggests that acupuncture can effectively treat infantile colic by reducing the frequency and duration of excessive crying in babies. The study involved 147 babies who received either standard care or tailored acupuncture treatment, resulting in a significant reduction in crying time for those who received acupuncture.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAcupuncture in Medicine·DateJan 16, 2017

Fossils found reveal unseen 'footprint' maker

Researchers discovered fossils of a previously unknown trilobite species that left distinctive fossil footprints around the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. The discovery reveals unique leg structures and digestive systems, providing insights into trilobite behavior and biology.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The lasting effects of ministrokes may contribute to dementia

Recent preclinical research suggests microinfarcts can induce prolonged dysfunction in brain areas estimated 12-times larger than the visible injury site, contributing to cognitive decline and dementia. The study used a mouse model to examine the effects of individual cortical microinfarcts on surrounding tissue function in vivo.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateJan 16, 2017

Dressing a metal in various colors

Researchers at DGIST have developed a technology to coat metals with several nanometers of semiconducting materials, enabling various color changes through thin-film interference. This breakthrough allows for the production of colors such as yellow, orange, blue, and purple on demand.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNanoscale·DateJan 16, 2017

Theory lends transparency to how glass breaks

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new theory and computational methods to understand how metallic glasses behave under stress, revealing the formation of shear bands that can lead to breaking. The study provides valuable insights into improving the strength and durability of glass materials.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Targets and patented drugs for chemotherapy of Chagas disease

Researchers have identified multiple targets for Chagas disease chemotherapy, including ergosterol biosynthesis pathway and cruzipain, a key cysteine protease. Novel synthesized anti-T.cruzi compounds with specific single or multi-target assigned have also been described, highlighting potential for effective treatment.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalRecent Patents on Anti-Infective Drug Discovery·DateJan 16, 2017

Imposing 'meaningful work' leads to staff burnout

A new study by Professor Catherine Bailey suggests that manipulating employees' desire for meaningful work can damage organizations and alienate staff. The researchers identify two forms of 'acting' used by employees when they perceive organizational efforts to manage meaningfulness, which can lead to negative consequences.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalHuman Resource Management Review·DateJan 16, 2017

UV light can aid hospitals' fight to wipe out drug-resistant superbugs

A large randomized trial found that using UVC machines can reduce the transmission of four major superbugs by a cumulative 30 percent, particularly for MRSA. The study suggests that adding UV light to standard cleaning can be an effective strategy in reducing infections in hospitals.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 16, 2017

Trade-offs between economic growth and deforestation

A new study published in Scientific Reports found a significant link between economic growth and deforestation in poor countries, with the effect disappearing in wealthier economies. The research used satellite data and economic data from 130 countries to make comparisons across border regions with similar geography.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

4G network infrastructure could mean fewer accidents by drivers

Researchers at the University of Bristol propose a cost-effective solution for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to share high-quality data with drivers in emergency situations. The single frequency network (SFN) approach could improve road safety by providing reliable information, reducing transmission power by up to 20 times.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJan 16, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Senescence promotes chemotherapy side effects and cancer relapse

Researchers at the Buck Institute found that chemotherapy induces widespread cellular senescence, contributing to persistent inflammation and cancer recurrence. Eliminating senescent cells reduced side effects, including fatigue, bone marrow suppression, and toxicity, in mice treated with common chemotherapy drugs.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalCancer Discovery·DateJan 16, 2017

Scientists make plastic from pine trees

Researchers at the University of Bath have developed a renewable plastic from pinene found in pine needles, which can replace petroleum-based plastics in food packaging and medical implants. The new plastic is biodegradable and produced from a waste product previously discarded in the paper industry.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalPolymer Chemistry·DateJan 16, 2017

Persistent infection keeps immune memory sharp, leading to long-term protection

Researchers found that persistent infections stimulate the immune system, keeping it primed and ready for future encounters. This leads to long-term immunity, but also carries risks of reactivation and disease. The study aims to design vaccines that elicit life-long immunity without sterilizing the pathogen.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

SMiLE-seq: A new technique speeds up genetics

Scientists developed a microfluidics-based technique called SMiLE-seq to characterize DNA-binding proteins, increasing speed, accuracy and efficiency. The technique can analyze over 60 transcription factors, including nine new ones, and has the potential to be extended to other molecules.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 16, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Smoking-related imagery absent from only one James Bond movie to date

The James Bond series has conspicuously absent smoking-related imagery in only one film since its debut in 1962, according to a recent analysis published in Tobacco Control. Despite Bond himself no longer smoking, he is still exposed to second-hand smoke through his sexual partners and other characters.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·DateJan 16, 2017

New study refutes how fruit flies developed their tolerance for alcohol

A new study uses transgenic organisms and biochemistry to test an evolutionary hypothesis on fruit flies' ability to metabolize alcohol. The research found that the amino acid changes in the ADH protein do not improve the fruit flies' tolerance for alcohol, challenging a previous hypothesis.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 16, 2017

Climate change forecast: More intense deluges and downpours Down Under

New research predicts a 11.3-30% intensification of rainfall from extreme precipitation events in Australia with a 2°C rise in global temperatures. This will occur despite some areas becoming increasingly drought-prone, highlighting the need for infrastructure adaptation to extreme rainfall events.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 16, 2017
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.

Tracking Antarctic adaptations in diatoms

A comparative genomic analysis of Antarctic diatom Fragillariopsis cylindrus reveals its ability to adapt to extreme cold by selectively expressing variant genes. The study provides insights into the organism's genome structure and evolution, highlighting its unique genetic features that enable survival in harsh environments.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature·DateJan 16, 2017

The first humans arrived in North America a lot earlier than believed

Researchers have revised the earliest known human settlement in North America to 24,000 years ago based on new radiocarbon dating from the Bluefish Caves in Yukon. The findings confirm the 'Beringian standstill hypothesis' suggesting that humans inhabited Eastern Beringia during the last ice age.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 16, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Three questions climate science must answer

Researchers identify three critical areas for climate research to tackle new frontiers of climate study. They include understanding the fate of carbon in the atmosphere and accurately modeling regional climate changes. These efforts require international collaboration and significant computational resources.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 16, 2017

Considering cattle could help eliminate malaria in India

Researchers found that mosquitoes responsible for transmitting malaria often rest in cattle sheds and feed on both humans and cattle. The team suggests that extending mosquito-control efforts to include cattle sheds could help reduce transmission dramatically.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

Nanoparticle exposure can awaken dormant viruses in the lungs

Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München found that nanoparticles from combustion engines can reactivate latent herpes viruses in lung tissue cells. This process can lead to increased viral proteins and acute infection patterns. Further studies aim to investigate the molecular mechanism of virus reactivation by nanoparticles.

SourceHelmholtz Munich (Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH))·JournalParticle and Fibre Toxicology·DateJan 16, 2017
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.

Lessons learned when commercialization of a new soft robot fails

A company's failed attempt to bring jamming-based robotic gripper technology to market provides valuable insights into the challenges of product development and commercialization. The authors share their research and product design efforts, highlighting key factors that influenced customer purchasing decisions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalSoft Robotics·DateJan 16, 2017

Nanoscale view of energy storage

Scientists captured real-time, dynamic visualizations of atoms moving in and out of nanoparticles less than 100 nanometers in size. The experiments provided insight into the chemical and physical sciences, revealing that nanoparticles can self-heal and become more durable energy storage materials.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2017

ACP and AAFP release new hypertension recommendations

The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) have released a new guideline for treating hypertension in adults 60 years old and older. The guidelines recommend a less aggressive treatment target for otherwise healthy adults, with a focus on achieving a systolic blood pressure of less tha...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 16, 2017

For first time ever, X-ray imaging at Argonne captures material defect process

Researchers at Argonne have discovered a new approach to detail the formation of material changes at the atomic scale, capturing images of structural defects in palladium when exposed to hydrogen. This imaging capability will help validate models predicting material behavior and enable defect engineering for better materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 16, 2017
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.

ACP & AAFP release guideline for treatment of hypertension in older adults

The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend that physicians initiate treatment in adults aged 60 years old and older with persistent systolic blood pressure at or above 150 mm Hg to achieve a target systolic blood pressure of less than 150 mm Hg. The guideline notes that some ...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 16, 2017

How China is poised for marine fisheries reform

A joint study by Chinese and international researchers recommends new institutions for science-based fisheries management, secure fishing access, and policy consistency across provinces. The authors believe that China's 13th Five-Year Plan provides a policy platform for the protection of marine ecosystems and restoration of fisheries.

SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

Every meal triggers inflammation

A study by researchers at the University of Basel found that meals trigger an inflammatory response in the body, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. This mechanism is dependent on bacteria and nutrients ingested during meals, highlighting the importance of adequate nutrition for immune function.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 16, 2017

Study tracks 'memory' of soil moisture

The new data from the SMAP satellite is providing significant surprises that will help in the modeling of climate, forecasting of weather, and monitoring of agriculture around the world. The topsoil's 'memory' for weather anomalies persists for a matter of days, contrary to expectations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJan 16, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Presumed young star turns out to be a galactic senior citizen

Researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum used data from the Astrophysical Journal to determine the age of the star, finding it had formed at the same time as our galaxy. The dual star system's companion star transferred matter to 49 Lib, causing incorrect age estimates.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateJan 16, 2017

Viral escape hatch could be treatment target for hepatitis E, Princeton-led study finds

Researchers at Princeton University have identified a potential treatment target for the hepatitis E virus by exploiting its ability to use proteins to escape host cells. The study found that curtailing viroporin production could prevent viral particles from spreading, providing a new avenue for antiviral drugs.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

'Buying time' for natural killer cells could enhance cancer immunity

Researchers have found a protein called BCL-2 crucial in controlling the reservoir of NK cells, which may be vulnerable to new medicines that inhibit it. Boosting NK cell numbers with IL-15 could offer a valuable approach to boosting immunity against viral infections or cancer.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 16, 2017

How safe is that driver next to you? A trucker's poor health could increase crash risk

A new study by University of Utah Health found that commercial truck drivers with three or more medical conditions are quadruple their chance of being in a crash compared to healthier drivers. The research suggests that a driver's poor health can increase the risk not only for themselves but also for others around them.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 16, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Liverpool scientists to develop liquid antennas

Researchers aim to overcome traditional antenna limitations with liquid materials, enabling flexible and compact devices. The project will test liquids for stability and frequency transmission across various temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·DateJan 16, 2017

New tools will drive greater understanding of wheat genes

A vast collection of genetically modified wheat seeds with over 10 million sequenced mutations has been developed to aid in the study and improvement of wheat plants. This new resource is freely available to researchers and breeders worldwide, enabling them to develop crops with enhanced nutritional value, yields, and climate resilience.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

Study finds high survival rate for elderly patients with implantable defibrillator

The study found that almost 80% of elderly patients who received an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator survived two years after a sudden cardiac arrest or near-fatal arrhythmia. The researchers also noted substantial care needs among the oldest patients, with high hospitalization and skilled nursing facility admission rates.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 16, 2017

Left wingers twice as likely to punish companies for tax avoidance, study finds

A recent study published in Journal of Business Research found that left wing consumers are twice as likely to punish companies for tax avoidance. The study revealed a significant decrease in purchase intentions among left wingers, with an average drop of 16%, compared to 8% among right wingers.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateJan 16, 2017

Self-assembling particles brighten future of LED lighting

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a technique to create ultra-fine grained films using self-assembling nanoparticles, leading to more efficient and stable perovskite-based LEDs. This advancement brings perovskite technologies closer to commercialization and could speed the adoption of lower-cost and environmentally fri...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 16, 2017
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.

HIV therapy could be contributing to syphilis outbreak: UBC study

A new UBC study found that medications used in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV may be reducing the body's immune response to certain diseases, including syphilis. Researchers suggest this could be contributing to the recent surge in syphilis cases worldwide.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateJan 16, 2017

New study reveals the structure of DNA helicase at the replication fork

A new study reveals the structure of DNA helicase at the replication fork, reversing a long-held assumption about its orientation. The findings provide a crucial piece in understanding how life propagates and may lead to new treatments for diseases such as cancers and anemias.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

Drug-resistant 'nightmare bacteria' show worrisome ability to diversify and spread

Researchers found a wide variety of CRE species and genetic traits enabling resistance, with traits transferring easily among species. The findings suggest that CRE may be transmitting from person to person asymptomatically, highlighting the need for increased genomic surveillance.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Light source discovery 'challenges basic assumption' of physics

Scientists at the University of Strathclyde discovered a way to create narrowband radiation with high efficiency, challenging a fundamental understanding of electromagnetic radiation. This breakthrough has significant implications for materials science and medical treatments.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

Sweat bees on hot chillies: Native bees thrive in traditional farming, securing good yield

A study by Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that traditional farming practices on the Yucatán Peninsula create attractive habitats for native sweat bees, improving pollination services. The researchers discovered that moderate farming with slash-and-burn practices has no direct negative impact on native bee populations.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 16, 2017

Metastatic pancreatic cancer 'reprogrammed' for malignancy

A Vanderbilt-led study identifies a compound that can reverse the malignant reprogramming of metastatic pancreatic cancer cells. The research found that distant metastases undergo massive epigenetic changes that enable tumor formation, but these changes can be reversed with the inhibition of phosphogluconate dehydrogenase enzyme.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 16, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Maternal micronutrients, nurturing environment boost child development

A new study published in Lancet Global Health found that maternal micronutrient supplements during pregnancy significantly boost child development and cognitive ability. The research also highlights the importance of a strong nurturing environment, home conditions, and parental education in shaping a child's intellectual abilities.

SourceGrand Challenges Canada·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJan 16, 2017

Common crop chemical leaves bees susceptible to deadly viruses

A widely used crop chemical, Sylgard 309, increases the susceptibility of honey bee larvae to a deadly virus, Black Queen Cell Virus. This finding suggests that exposure to organosilicone adjuvants negatively influences immunity in honey bee larvae, resulting in enhanced pathogenicity and mortality.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

Study applies game theory to genomic privacy

A new study from Vanderbilt University uses game theory to simulate re-identification risks and strikes an optimal balance between data sharing and privacy. The approach compares various data sharing policies in terms of risk and scientific utility, providing a more realistic estimate of the risk.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 16, 2017
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.

Retail therapy for jealous partners

Researchers found that feelings of jealousy increase the desire for products that will attract someone's attention. Participants who were experiencing jealousy opted to buy eye-catching products even in public, indicating a strong motivation to regain their partner's focus.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJan 16, 2017

Protein research: The computer as microscope

Using infrared spectroscopy and computer simulations, researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum discovered a magnesium atom contributes significantly to switching G-proteins on and off. This finding has implications for understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted drugs.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 16, 2017

Harrington Discovery Institute announces 2016 partnership scholars

The Harrington Discovery Institute has selected three 2016 partnership scholars to support groundbreaking research in Alzheimer's disease and blindness. The scholars will receive funding and expert pharmaceutical guidance to advance their discoveries into new medicines.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·DateJan 16, 2017

Frankly, do we give a damn...?

A study published in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that people who frequently curse are less likely to be associated with lying and deception. The research also showed that those who use more profanity tend to use language patterns related to honesty, such as using pronouns like 'I' and 'me'.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 16, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.