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Science News for January 3, 2017


UIC to continue study of risky behavior by sexual-minority women

The University of Illinois Chicago will continue its research on risk and protective factors for drinking among lesbian or bisexual women, led by Tonda Hughes. The five-year study aims to examine the impact of stressful experiences on psychological suffering and hazardous drinking in adult sexual-minority women.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateJan 3, 2017

How we know Zika virus causes Guillain-Barre Syndrome and birth defects

A systematic review confirms Zika virus infection as a cause of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) and congenital brain abnormalities. The study analyzed 72 studies on Zika and GBS, finding at least eight criteria for causality met, while another 36 studies showed seven out of ten criteria satisfied.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 3, 2017

Special issue of Future Oncology highlights the field of Psycho-oncology

The new special issue of Future Oncology explores the field of psycho-oncology, which aims to integrate biomedical and psychosocial aspects of cancer care. The issue highlights the importance of developing a multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care, from both social and biomedical standpoints.

SourceFuture Science Group·JournalFuture Oncology·DateJan 3, 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.

Clinical genetic evaluation of patients with auditory neuropathy spectrum

This study investigates molecular changes in the OTOF gene in patients with auditory neuropathy and identifies the c.35delG mutation in the GJB2 gene. Cochlear implants show excellent outcomes, with improved speech development and language acquisition in patients with severe/profound hearing loss.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Neurology Journal·DateJan 3, 2017

One step closer to reality: Devices that convert heat into electricity

A team of researchers at Ohio State University has developed a device that converts waste heat into electricity, producing a voltage output 10 times higher than previous results. The innovation uses a composite material of nickel and platinum to amplify the voltage output through magnetism.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 3, 2017

Maternal depression across the first years of life impacts children's neural basis of empathy

A study found that maternal depression in early childhood increases children's susceptibility to psychopathology and social-emotional problems. Mother-child interaction patterns also play a crucial role in this effect. Improving mother-child interactions may help reduce the effects of maternal depression on children's development.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 3, 2017

Not all Europeans receive the same care for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers found substantial inequities in care practices for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients across seven European countries. The standard of care for DMD typically includes corticosteroid medication, physiotherapy, regular echocardiograms, and regular check-ups, but adherence to guidelines was low, particularly among non-...

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Neuromuscular Diseases·DateJan 3, 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.

Quantum simulation technique yields topological soliton state in SSH model

Researchers at the University of Illinois used quantum simulation to replicate the properties of a topological insulator, directly observing its protected boundary state. This breakthrough enables further investigations into topological systems and their unique transport properties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 3, 2017

How to 3-D print your own sonic tractor beam

Researchers have developed a 3D printable sonic tractor beam that can trap small beads, insects, and even biological samples using sound waves. The device is created by designing a metamaterial with tubes of different lengths, which shape the sound waves to create a trapping environment.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 3, 2017

Ticks that carry Lyme disease found in eastern national parks

A new study has confirmed the presence of ticks carrying Lyme disease in nine eastern national parks, highlighting the need for visitors to take precautions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Park Service collected ticks along hiking trails and found all nine parks had infected blacklegged ticks.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 3, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rice U probes ways to turn cement's weakness to strength

Researchers at Rice University have made breakthroughs in understanding how concrete responds to stress at the atomic level. By studying the internal structure of tobermorite, they found that defects can lead to increased strength and toughness by allowing layers to glide past each other.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 3, 2017

Study finds more extreme storms ahead for California

A new study predicts that California will experience three more extreme precipitation events per year by 2100 as the Earth's climate warms. The researchers developed a technique to identify large-scale patterns in atmospheric data, significantly reducing uncertainty in extreme storm predictions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Climate·DateJan 3, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Research on sweat glands suggests a route to better skin grafts

Researchers identify opposing signaling pathways that determine the formation of hair follicles and sweat glands in humans, similar to mice but separated by time. This discovery has potential to improve methods for culturing human skin tissue used in grafting procedures.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateJan 3, 2017

Genes affecting our communication skills relate to genes for psychiatric disorder

Research reveals that genes affecting social communication in children overlap with those for autism and schizophrenia, but influence risk differently at various stages of development. This study provides new insights into the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders and their relationship to social competence.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 3, 2017

Why odds are against a large Zika outbreak in the US

New analysis suggests US is unlikely to experience large-scale Zika outbreak due to access to clean water and air conditioning. However, localized outbreaks remain a concern, particularly in southern states with lower socioeconomic conditions.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 3, 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.

Deeper than obesity: A majority of people is now overfat

Researchers estimate that up to 76 percent of the world's population is overfat, including normal-weight individuals with increased risk factors for chronic disease. The study suggests a new pandemic has quietly overtaken the world, and argues for a change in global health efforts against chronic and metabolic diseases.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateJan 3, 2017

New research examines trends in radiology journal publications relating to patient-centered care

Recent years have seen a substantial increase in articles within radiology journals addressing patient-centered care, with only a limited number of journals publishing multiple original research articles. The study identified four journals that had published more than one original research article on the topic.

SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateJan 3, 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.

JAMA Internal Medicine publishes more articles on firearm violence

The latest collection of articles in JAMA Internal Medicine explores firearm violence in urban areas, with studies focusing on adolescent firearm homicides and social contagion through networks. The research aims to reduce the disproportionate impact of firearm violence on minority populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 3, 2017

NASA adds up heavy rainfall from southeastern US severe weather

Severe thunderstorms spawned tornadoes and generated flooding rainfall over the Southeast, with up to a foot of rain falling in five days. At least 13 deaths were blamed on the violent weather, according to NASA's Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) program.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 3, 2017

Random access memory on a low energy diet

Researchers from Dresden and Basel have developed a novel memory chip concept that can store data magnetically without continuous refreshing, reducing energy consumption and heat generation. The breakthrough uses an electrical voltage instead of current to activate the magnetic material, enabling more efficient data storage.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 3, 2017

New research: Feral cats now cover over 99.8 percent of Australia

Feral cat population in Australia is estimated to be around 2-6.3 million, with densities higher on islands and in inland areas with low rainfall. The research also found that feral cats are undermining conservation efforts, driving species extinctions across the country.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 3, 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.

Economics made simple with physics models

Researchers have applied physics models to understand economic systems, but results show that universal features may be the exception rather than the rule. Econophysics has led to discoveries like the inverse cubic law describing stock price fluctuations.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Techniques and Instrumentation·DateJan 3, 2017

Sandia forms Spray Combustion Consortium to improve engine design

The consortium aims to develop predictive spray models for fuel sprays in the engine cylinder, addressing uncertainties associated with fuel injection equipment. By understanding flow within the fuel injector nozzle and dispersion of liquid outside the nozzle, researchers hope to improve engine efficiency and reduce emissions.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJan 3, 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.

Chemically modified insulin is available more quickly

Chemical modification of insulin enables faster release and improved availability, maintaining efficacy. The study uses computer simulations and experiments to confirm the effect, demonstrating potential for optimizing diabetes treatment.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 3, 2017

Studies suggest gaming your brain to treat depression

Researchers found that a mobile, tablet-based game called Project: EVO improved cognitive benefits and mood in people with late-life depression. A second study showed similar results, with improvements seen in all groups, including the placebo.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateJan 3, 2017

Nanowire 'inks' enable paper-based printable electronics

Researchers at Duke University have created a new method for printing conductive films using silver nanowire inks, eliminating the need for heat. The resulting printed electronics can be used in various applications such as solar cells, displays, and implantable bio-electronic devices.

SourceDuke University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 3, 2017

Study shows new global evidence of the role of humans, urbanization in rapid evolution

A recent study examining 1,600 instances of phenotypic change worldwide shows that urbanization is affecting the genetic makeup of species crucial to ecosystem health. The research highlights the importance of understanding human-induced trait changes and their implications for ecological and human well-being.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 3, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Tenfold jump in green tech needed to meet global emissions targets

A new Duke University study reveals that global emissions targets can only be met if green technologies are developed and implemented at an unprecedented pace. To limit warming below the Paris Agreement's 2 degrees C target, green innovations must be accelerated by a full order of magnitude, or about ten times faster than in the past.

SourceDuke University·DateJan 3, 2017

Geologists publish new details about evolution of East African Rift Valley

Researchers studied data from Lake Malawi to confirm that rifting has occurred slowly over the past 1.3 million years, utilizing a series of faults millions of years older. The team's findings provide a unified geologic framework for exploring the East African Rift system and shed light on other continental rift systems.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalJournal of Structural Geology·DateJan 3, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Will climate change leave tropical birds hung out to dry?

A University of Illinois study found that 19 out of 20 tropical bird species in Panama may experience significantly fewer birds if conditions become drier, due to longer dry seasons and more intense seasonal droughts. The scaly-throated leaftosser is the only species that tends to increase with dryer conditions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 3, 2017

Rolling out an e-sticker revolution

Researchers at KAUST develop a process to print high-performance silicon-based computers on soft, sticker-like surfaces for flexible electronics. Decal electronics enable easy integration of device components into compliant systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 3, 2017

New study finds EPA and DHA omega-3s lower risk of coronary heart disease

A new study has found that increasing intake of EPA and DHA omega-3s can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, particularly among populations with high triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels. The study analyzed data from 93,000 and 732,000 subjects across 18 randomized controlled trials and 16 prospective cohort studies.

SourceGOED·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 3, 2017

Songbirds divorce, flee, fail to reproduce due to suburban sprawl

Research finds that urbanization is hindering the ability of certain songbird species to reproduce successfully, even after relocating. The study, published in PLOS ONE, found that forced dispersal due to suburban development can cause birds to abandon their territories and struggle to find new mates.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 3, 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.

Medicare bundled-payments model cut joint replacement costs by more than 20 percent

The study found that bundled payment models can reduce healthcare costs without compromising quality, with a 20.8% decrease in average cost for joint replacements and improved post-acute care spending. The hospital system's use of evidence-based data and incentivizing physicians also played a key role in achieving these savings.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 3, 2017

The beating heart of solar energy

Researchers found that small solar cells under the skin can generate enough power to fully charge pacemakers or extend their lifespan. This technology has the potential to reduce device replacements and size, saving patients discomfort and stress.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 3, 2017

Streamlining the Internet of Things and other cyber-physical systems

The study proposes a new approach to designing cyber-physical systems by integrating machine learning, real-time sensors, and effective communication interfaces. The team encourages combining model-based design with data-based learning to establish a durable design methodology for these complex systems.

SourceMichigan Technological University·DateJan 3, 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.

Reducing severe violence among adolescents

A new special section of Child Development explores the developmental course of violent offending, including factors such as emotion regulation skills and judgment. The research aims to inform novel practices and policies to prevent severe youth violence.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJan 3, 2017

Study provides new look at Cesarean rate in China

A new study by Dr. Jan Blustein reveals China's cesarean rate is substantially lower than the WHO's reported figure of 46.2%, with a rate of 34.9% in 2014. The study highlights geographic variations in cesarean rates across different regions of China.

SourceNew York University·JournalJAMA·DateJan 3, 2017

Inflammation halts fat-burning

Researchers at the University of Bonn found that inflammation in abdominal fat blocks fat-burning by inhibiting cGMP signaling. Administering cGMP-stimulating active ingredients may be a possible starting point for treating obesity and preventing related complications.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 3, 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.

Childhood poverty can rob adults of psychological health

A study by Cornell University researcher Gary Evans found that children from poor backgrounds are more likely to develop antisocial behavior, helplessness, and chronic physiological stress as adults. Early intervention and increasing poor families' incomes can help mitigate these issues.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 3, 2017

North-South divide in science may hinder action on climate change

A study published in Nature Climate Change finds that a lack of research led by Southern scientists hinders global agreements and nationally-appropriate actions on climate change. Practical steps are recommended to bridge the divide and promote inclusive scientific development.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 3, 2017

Shell game: Understanding gene patterns behind mollusk diversity

A new study reveals that no single model or common molecular toolkit exists behind the diverse array of mollusk shells. Instead, each species has evolved its own 'shell secretome' through a combination of co-opting existing genes and rapid evolution of novel genes.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 3, 2017

Sex hormone-sensitive gene complex linked to premenstrual mood disorder

A complex of genes regulating epigenetic mechanisms is linked to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a condition affecting 2-5% of women of reproductive age. Dysregulated expression of these genes suggests abnormal cellular response to sex hormones, which may hold hope for improved treatment.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 3, 2017

UBC discovery opens up new treatments for problem gamblers

Researchers found increased brain activity in the insula and frontal cortex of problem gamblers when exposed to gambling cues. The study suggests that targeting the insula could be a promising approach for treating problem gambling.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJan 3, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Detecting misinformation can improve memory later on

Research published in Psychological Science found that people who notice inconsistent misinformation have better memory for the event compared to those who don't see it. This suggests that detecting and remembering misinformation can actually enhance memory recognition.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 3, 2017

First experimental proof of a 70 year old physics theory

Researchers have demonstrated the magnetic behavior of iron trithiohypophosphate (FePS3) crystals, providing the first experimental proof of Onsager's 1943 prediction. The team used Raman spectroscopy to measure magnetism in 2D FePS3 monolayers and found consistent patterns with bulk samples.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 3, 2017

New study estimates frequency of flight-disrupting volcanic eruptions

A new study from the University of Leeds has made reliable estimates of volcanic ash events in Northern Europe, finding that ash clouds occur approximately every 44 years. The research team analyzed records of volcanic ash fallout over the past 1,000 years and found evidence of 84 ash clouds, most linked to Icelandic eruptions.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateJan 3, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Null results research now published by major behavioral medicine journal

The journal Translational Behavioral Medicine now publishes research with null results, providing a unique opportunity for scientific researchers. This shift in publication policy sets it apart from other behavioral medicine titles and supports the advancement of science by learning from unexpected outcomes.

SourceSpringer·JournalTranslational Behavioral Medicine·DateJan 3, 2017

Vaccine shows promising results for early-stage breast cancer patients

A new HER2-targeted dendritic cell vaccine has shown promising results in a clinical trial, stimulating an immune response in 80% of patients and inducing regression of early-stage breast tumors. The vaccine was well-tolerated and effective in both invasive and non-invasive disease settings.

SourceMoffitt Cancer Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 3, 2017

Infant's prolonged infection reveals mutation that helps bacteria tolerate antibiotics

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a mutation in the relA gene of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium that enables the bacteria to tolerate normally effective antibiotic therapy. The mutation resulted in elevated levels of alarmone, priming the bacteria to survive exposure to multiple antibiotics.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalmBio·DateJan 3, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

The researchers created a tiny laser using nanoparticles

Researchers at Aalto University developed a plasmonic nanolaser that operates at visible light frequencies and uses dark lattice modes, allowing for ultrafast and tiny coherent light sources. The nanolaser uses silver nanoparticles arranged in a periodic array, which radiate in unison to produce high-intensity laser light.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 3, 2017