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Science News for January 22, 2018


How centipedes slay giant prey

A golden head centipede can subdue a caged mouse in under 30 seconds by injecting an estimated 30 μl of crude venom containing SsTx. The peptide toxin strongly inhibits KCNQ4 channels, controlling pulmonary vascular tone and arterial tension, leading to vasoconstriction and cardiovascular effects.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Multifunctional platform for the delivery of gene therapeutics

Researchers have developed a multifunctional vehicle using gold nanoparticles to transport and release the CRISPR-Cas9 system for targeted gene editing in tumors. The platform combines hyperthermal cancer therapy with genetic modification, offering a promising approach for tumor therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 22, 2018

Using social and risk networks helps identify people undiagnosed with HIV

Researchers found that conducting HIV testing among social and risk networks of those recently diagnosed with HIV can identify undiagnosed cases at higher rates and lower costs than other approaches. The study used a network-based recruiting, counseling, and HIV testing strategy, which was more effective in locating undiagnosed positives.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateJan 22, 2018

Want a healthier population? Spend less on health care and more on social services

A Canadian study found that increased social spending was associated with improved health outcomes, while increased healthcare spending had no similar effect. The researchers suggest that reallocating funds from healthcare to social services could lead to significant improvements in life expectancy and mortality rates.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 22, 2018

Researchers reveal new insights into how your brain keeps its balance

An interdisciplinary team of scientists discovered that ATM and ATR regulate each other's levels in the brain to maintain a balance between excitation and inhibition. Regular brain activity also changes the levels of these proteins, creating a dynamic 'conversation' that helps keep the appropriate E/I balance.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Optical nanoscope allows imaging of quantum dots

Physicists at the University of Basel developed an optical nanoscope that can image individual atoms and quantum dots with unprecedented resolution. The technique, which works with two-energy level systems, overcomes the wave nature of light limitations, releasing no heat in the process.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 22, 2018

Feedback enhances brainwave control of a novel hand-exoskeleton

A novel hand-exoskeleton has been developed to help physically impaired individuals, and researchers have found that brainwave control can be improved with feedback. The device uses EEG headsets to measure brainwaves and provide motor control through a combination of user-driven brain-machine interface and proprioception-based feedback.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalIEEE Robotics and Automation Letters·DateJan 22, 2018

Developing the VTX-1 liquid biopsy system: Fast and label-free enrichment of circulating tumor cells

The VTX-1 Liquid Biopsy System is a commercial, automated instrument that isolates clinically relevant CTC populations directly from whole blood. It achieves high recovery rates of spiked breast and lung cancer cell lines, with purities as low as <100 white blood cells per mL of processed blood.

How cells are able to turn

Researchers have demonstrated that cells navigate using molecular force from within, enabling them to turn and potentially leading to the development of new drugs. This discovery was made possible by the study of integrins, which are essential for cell interactions.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 2018

Study examines differences in hip fracture rates among nursing homes

A nationally representative study found considerable variation in US nursing home hip fracture rates among facilities. The majority of the variation remained unexplained by measured characteristics, but psychotropic medication prescribing and staffing requirements emerged as plausible targets for initiatives to reduce hip fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 22, 2018

Researchers find latent HIV reservoirs inherently resistant to elimination by CD8+ T-cells

A recent study found that latent HIV reservoirs exhibit inherent resistance to CD8+ T-cells, making it challenging to eliminate the virus. Researchers at George Washington University used their most powerful combinations against these cells, but were unable to kill the virus, which remained present at high levels.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 22, 2018

Inverse-design approach leads to metadevices

The Northwestern University team developed highly efficient metadevices at millimeter-wave frequencies using inverse design principles and 3D printing. This approach starts with a function and asks what structure is needed to achieve the desired result, producing unexpected outcomes like broad bandwidth functionality.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 22, 2018

Study reveals perceived gender bias against women is dominant factor in college major choice

A new study published in the American Educational Research Journal found that perceived gender bias is the most predictive attribute of whether a female chooses a college major. The study suggests that college administrators should examine the environments in different majors to increase female representation. Additionally, women are m...

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateJan 22, 2018

Genes contribute to biological motion perception and its covariation with autistic traits

A study has linked individual variation in biological motion perception to genetic factors, revealing a common genetic basis for heritable aspects of BM perception and autistic traits. Genetic influences account for up to 50% of individual variation in local kinematics processing, while environmental factors shape global configuration ...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

The ins and outs of Area 25

Neuroscientists have created a detailed map of the connections in the subgenual cingulate area 25 (A25) of non-human primates. The research reveals strong links between A25 and brain areas involved in emotional regulation, stress response, and memory formation.

A better HIV test

A new test developed by Stanford chemists combines the convenience of spitting in a cup with the reliability of blood tests to detect HIV infections earlier. The test was shown to correctly diagnose 22 people and demonstrate improved sensitivity compared to existing saliva tests.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

New fuel cell technology runs on solid carbon

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have developed a new fuel cell technology powered by solid carbon, which can utilize three times as much carbon as earlier designs. The innovation enables lower temperatures and higher power densities, making it potentially more efficient than conventional hydrogen fuel cells.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 22, 2018

Discrepancies between satellite and global model estimates of land water storage

Research found discrepancies between satellite and global model estimates of land water storage in 186 river basins worldwide. GRACE satellites measured changes in water storage, which differed from simulations made by seven commonly used models. The study highlights the need for improved regional assessments to ensure accurate water a...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Study may improve strategies for reducing nutrient runoff into Mississippi River

A new study examines nutrient loss reduction strategies from three upper Midwestern states and finds promise in certain practices like cover crops and bioreactors. The researchers also assess the trackability and stackability of these practices, which will aid decision makers in choosing specific conservation practices to adopt or avoid.

Ancient rice heralds a new future for rice production

Wild Australian rice's unique genetics hold the key to improving drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutritional benefits in commercial rice production. The study reveals that northern Australia's wild rices contain valuable genetic diversity closely related to domesticated rice, which can be cross-bred for improved crop resilience.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 22, 2018

Origin of hominids' reproductive success

Researchers found that human neurochemical profiles are consistent with enhanced sensitivity to social cues, promoting monogamy and reducing within-group aggression. Elevated serotonin and neuropeptide Y levels may have encouraged male provisioning, while a dopamine-dominated striatum could have led to increased brain size and language.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Vaccines not protecting farmed fish from disease

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers found that vaccines used by commercial fish farmers are not protecting fish from disease, with vaccinated fish showing more symptoms and higher death rates. The study highlights the need for veterinary pharmaceutical companies to redesign and test vaccines tailored to fish immune systems.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 22, 2018

Speech analysis software predicted psychosis in at-risk patients with up to 83 percent accuracy

A computer-based language classifier predicted psychosis in at-risk youths with up to 83% accuracy, identifying disturbances in speech flow and tangential thinking as indicative of psychosis. The technology has the potential to improve prediction and prevention of psychosis by targeting cognitive deficits.

Rutgers scientists discover 'Legos of life'

Researchers identified four fundamental building blocks for all proteins, which can be stacked together to form energy-rich molecules available to humans and other living organisms. The discovery could lead to applications in biomedical engineering, therapeutic proteins, and industrial catalysts.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Transportable laser

PTB physicists have developed a frequency-doubling unit that can endure transportation and maintain accuracy. The unit is based on a highly stable monolithic enhancement cavity for second harmonic generation, enabling reliable laser light for quantum-optical experiments.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 22, 2018

The scent of the city

Researchers at the University of Innsbruck used a sophisticated measurement method to create a chemical fingerprint of urban VOC emission sources. The study found that emissions from cosmetics, detergents, and food preparation contribute significantly to the total VOC burden, with some compounds leaving characteristic 'scent' in the air.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Digging deep into distinctly different DNA

The study found that mitochondrial DNA mutation rates differ across various tissues, particularly in reproductive cells, which could lead to devastating diseases if passed to future offspring. Researchers used a novel method to isolate mitochondria from specific cells, shedding light on the mechanisms regulating gene mutations.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 22, 2018

BU: Marijuana use does not lower chances of getting pregnant

A new study published in Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that marijuana use among couples does not lower their chances of getting pregnant. The researchers surveyed over 4,000 women and their male partners, finding that conception probabilities were similar between those who used marijuana and those who did not.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJan 22, 2018

Crows 'hooked' on fast food

New Caledonian crows manufacture hooked stick tools to outsmart hidden food, extracting it 2-10 times faster with improved efficiency. The study reveals that even small tool design changes can significantly boost foraging performance.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 22, 2018

Climate change and snowmelt -- turn up the heat, but what about humidity?

Researchers found that changes in humidity determine how much snowpack contributes to streams, lakes, and groundwater as the climate warms. Cloudy, humid winter days cause snowpack to warm faster, increasing melt during winter months. In contrast, clear skies and low humidity preserve the snowpack until spring. The study highlights the...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Use of dirty heating oil in NYC concentrated uptown

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that despite the Clean Heat Program, many buildings continued to burn residual diesel fuel oil, releasing high levels of particulate matter and linked health problems. The researchers recommend new incentives and a building energy rating system to encourage conversion.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 22, 2018

'Depression education' effective for some teens

The Adolescent Depression Awareness Program (ADAP) achieved its intended effect of encouraging teenagers to speak up and seek adult help for themselves or a peer. More than 54% of students were depression-literate four months after the curriculum, compared with 36% of students who weren't exposed.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 22, 2018

Overall in-hospital cardiac arrest survival improves, lower survival on nights, weekends

Survival rates for in-hospital cardiac arrests have improved over the past 15 years, with a significant increase in both on-hours and off-hours groups. However, patients who experience cardiac arrest during nights or weekends continue to face lower survival rates compared to those who arrest during daytime hours.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 22, 2018

Seabed mining could destroy ecosystems

A new study warns of long-lasting consequences from seabed mining, which could destroy deep-sea ecosystems and affect marine life globally. The research highlights the need for precautions and alternative approaches to mitigate potential harm.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateJan 22, 2018

New NOAA research holds promise of predicting snowpack even before the snow falls

New NOAA research predicts snowpack levels in the West 8 months in advance, providing crucial information for farmers and urban water managers. The accurate predictions can be made on a mountain range scale, helping to improve regional water forecasts and inform decisions on water supply, wildfire risk, ecology, and agriculture.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Blavatnik Family Foundation provides $10 million to promote engineering innovations in health

The Blavatnik Family Foundation is providing a $10 million grant to Columbia University's Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science. The gift will support the Blavatnik Fund for Engineering Innovations in Health, which aims to attract graduate student talent and promote early-stage research across disciplines.