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Science News for September 24, 2012


Duke policy provides ethical foundation for managing drug shortages

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed a policy to manage drug shortages in hospitals, prioritizing patients based on clinical need and effectiveness. The policy establishes clear rules for apportioning scarce drugs, ensuring fairness and minimizing waste.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

A clock that will last forever

Scientists have proposed an experimental design for building a space-time crystal, a four-dimensional crystal that can study complex physical properties and behaviors. The device would be used to study phenomena like entanglement, where particles are connected even at vast distances.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 24, 2012

Heritability of avoidant and dependent personality disorder traits

A recent study found that two-thirds of the variation in avoidant and dependent personality disorder traits can be explained by genes, highlighting the importance of genetic influences in their development. The study's use of both questionnaire and interview measures provided a more comprehensive understanding of heritability.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalActa Psychiatrica Scandinavica·DateSep 24, 2012
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

NASA's Chandra shows Milky Way is surrounded by halo of hot gas

The study reveals a massive halo of hot gas extending hundreds of thousands of light-years around the Milky Way, with an estimated mass of over 10 billion suns. The discovery may solve the long-standing 'missing baryon' problem in galaxy research.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 24, 2012

Cellular eavesdropping made easy

A new approach devised by EMBL scientists enables the distinction of proteins secreted by cells from those in their food, allowing measurement of secretion changes over time. This method has opened new avenues for drug and biomarker screening, as well as studying cell responses to drugs and 3D growth conditions.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 24, 2012

JCI early table of contents for September 24, 2012

Researchers at University of California, Berkeley report that epithelial cells in cornea express small antimicrobial peptides to defend against bacterial infections. High levels of prolactin block expression of kisspeptin, a protein hormone that induces secretion of GnRH, leading to infertility in women.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2012

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that brief, multicontact behavioral counseling interventions delivered by primary care physicians reduced hospital stays for adults with risky drinking. The campaign 'Tips from Former Smokers' successfully encouraged smokers to quit, with calls to the toll-free quit line more than doubling during the 12-week campaign.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

AIDS patients face risk for esophageal, stomach cancers

People with AIDS are at increased risk for developing esophageal and stomach carcinoma, as well as non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The study found that those with AIDS had a 69% increased risk of esophageal cancer and a 53% increased risk of lower stomach cancer.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 24, 2012

Life in the extreme

Two single-celled Archaea species, nearly identical genetically, respond differently to uranium toxicity, one by metabolizing it as energy, and the other by inducing a dormant state. These findings could teach us about mechanisms of adaptation to extreme environments and have implications for understanding antibiotic resistance.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

Yale researchers call for specialty metals recycling

The study highlights the challenges of recycling specialty metals, which are essential for precise technological applications. Improving design for recycling, depositing targets, and financial incentives can enhance metal recovery.

SourceYale University·JournalScience·DateSep 24, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Managing soil copper in crops irrigated with cattle footbath wastewater

Researchers found that alfalfa growth stops when soil copper sulfate levels exceed 500 ppm and beneficial bacterial activity declines above 50 ppm. Crops irrigated with cattle footbath wastewater can accumulate plant-available copper levels up to 63 ppm, posing potential harm to grazing livestock.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Agricultural Science·DateSep 24, 2012

Most biofuels are not 'green'

Despite reducing greenhouse gas emissions, many biofuels lead to environmental pollution, such as acid in soil and polluted lakes and rivers. Only a few biofuels have a better ecobalance than petrol, with biogas from residues and waste materials showing promise.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·DateSep 24, 2012

LIFR protein suppresses breast cancer metastasis

A team of researchers from MD Anderson Cancer Center has identified the LIFR protein as a novel suppressor of breast cancer metastasis. The study found that restoring LIFR expression or function could be used to block the spread of breast cancer. Loss of LIFR is associated with poor clinical outcomes in breast cancer patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 24, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Obesity promotes prostate cancer by altering gene regulation

Research finds that obesity promotes prostate cancer growth by changing gene expression in fat surrounding the prostate, increasing risk of aggressive disease. The study suggests a personalized approach to lifestyle and therapeutic strategies for overweight men with prostate cancer.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateSep 24, 2012

New CU-Boulder study clarifies diversity, distribution of cutthroat trout in Colorado

A novel genetic study led by CU-Boulder postdoctoral researcher Jessica Metcalf has clarified the native diversity and distribution of cutthroat trout in Colorado, revealing a single surviving population outside its native range. The study also confirmed the extinction of two previously unknown cutthroat strains, including one from the...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateSep 24, 2012

Glacial youth therapy for the Scandinavian landscape

A new study in Nature Geoscience reveals that the high-elevation flat surfaces of Norway's landscape are geologically young due to extensive glacial erosion. The research contradicts previous views and suggests a complete re-interpretation of Scandinavia's tectonic history.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 24, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Scientists shed light on riddle of sun's explosive events

A team of space scientists has shed light on the mysterious physical mechanisms underlying coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that can impact Earth-based power grids and satellites. The study, published in Nature Physics, uses state-of-the-art computer simulations to connect motions in the sun's interior with CMEs.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 24, 2012

First-ever treatment for rare childhood aging disease shows improvement in all trial participants

A clinical trial demonstrates significant improvements in Progeria children's weight gain, bone structure, and cardiovascular system after receiving a farnesyltransferase inhibitor. The treatment, originally developed for cancer, has shown promising results in slowing down the progression of the disease.

SourceSpectrum Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

Florida State University chemist may hold key to building a better toxin mousetrap

Sourav Saha's research in the Journal of the American Chemical Society has led to the development of a compound that can strip electrons from toxic fluoride, producing tangible benefits for toxin detection and removal. This innovation has far-reaching potential applications in various fields, including the creation of new plastics and ...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

Preterm birth of mother increases risk of pregnancy complications

Women born preterm are at higher risk of pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and hypertension. The risk almost doubles for mothers born before 32 weeks' gestation, according to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 24, 2012

Therapeutic impact of cell transplantation aided by magnetic factor

Researchers used magnetic particles to target transplanted stem cells to specific retinal locations, improving biochemical changes in the target tissue. Magnetic targeting also enhanced cell retention in a rat model of ischemia/reperfusion injury by over five-fold.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateSep 24, 2012

New back pain gene identified in largest genetic study of its kind

Researchers at King's College London have identified a gene linked to age-related degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the spine, a common cause of lower back pain. The largest study to date has revealed an association with the PARK2 gene.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateSep 24, 2012

New IVF breakthrough

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a chemical that can mature small eggs to healthy, mature eggs, offering new hope for women struggling with infertility. The breakthrough could provide an alternative method to preserving fertility in girls who have not yet reached puberty.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2012

Eunuchs outlive other men

A study of noble Korean males found castrated eunuchs lived 14-19 years longer than other men. The incidence of centenarians among Korean eunuchs is 130 times greater than in developed countries, offering clues to life extension.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

Hundreds of biochemical analyses on a single chip

Researchers at EPFL and University of Geneva create k-MITOMI, a microfluidic device that measures up to 768 biomolecular interactions simultaneously. The device accelerates the acquisition of protein-protein and protein-DNA interaction information, crucial for understanding living organisms.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

OU receives award from Council of Graduate Schools

The University of Oklahoma has received an award to develop a research ethics program for international students collaborating with US universities. The program aims to enhance students' awareness of cultural expectations and research policies in global research contexts.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateSep 24, 2012

Feeling guilty versus feeling angry -- who can tell the difference?

A study published in Psychological Science found that individuals with clinical depression struggle to differentiate between various negative emotions, including anger and frustration. In contrast, healthy individuals tend to identify specific emotions more accurately.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 24, 2012

Ohio State and Malaysia Centre join forces to develop possible anticancer drug

Researchers at Ohio State and the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre are collaborating on the development of silvestrol, a tropical tree-derived compound showing promise in treating acute and chronic leukemia. The team aims to isolate and purify the agent for laboratory and animal studies.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 24, 2012

Automatic building mapping could help emergency responders

A prototype sensor array worn on the chest automatically creates a digital map of the wearer's environment, recognizing movement between floors. The system is envisioned as a tool to help emergency responders coordinate disaster response by providing accurate location estimates and visual features of the surroundings.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

Wolters Kluwer Health launches Cardiovascular Endocrinology journal

The new online journal bridges the disciplines of cardiology, endocrinology, and metabolism to address diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and related diseases. Original research articles and reviews will provide insights into the interaction between these specialties.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalCardiovascular Endocrinology·DateSep 24, 2012

Climate is changing the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is experiencing significant changes in sea surface temperatures and seasonal patterns over the past 25 years. Water temperatures have increased by an average of 0.2 degrees, with more pronounced warming in certain areas. This shift affects marine life and poses challenges for managing protected areas.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalConservation Biology·DateSep 24, 2012

Study finds germ-killing power in the eyes

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley have identified a germ-killing power in the eyes' keratin protein, which can effectively combat bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The synthetic molecules derived from this protein show promise as low-cost therapeutics against various infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

Like prostate cancer, bladder cancer patients may benefit from anti-androgen therapy

A University of Colorado study shows that bladder cancer patients with high CD24 expression have worse prognoses and may benefit from anti-androgen therapies. CD24 expression depends on androgens, and blocking these hormones may diminish the proliferative and metastatic power of bladder cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

When they do not all look alike: Using identity to reduce own-race bias

New research finds that identifying oneself as part of the same group can improve memory of members of another race. In three experiments, participants showed better memory for members of their own group than others, regardless of race. This effect was especially pronounced when people were motivated to serve a collective goal

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

Bone marrow holds secrets for treating colitis and Crohn's

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered a link between bone marrow and inflammatory bowel diseases, such as colitis and Crohn's. The study suggests that targeting the bone marrow's ability to produce inflammatory cells may help alleviate symptoms of these conditions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

First 2 Webb Telescope flight mirrors delivered to NASA

The James Webb Space Telescope's primary mirror is composed of 18 hexagonal-shaped assemblies weighing over 40 kilograms each. The delivery of the first two mirrors marks an important step towards the telescope's integration and fulfillment of its scientific potential, enabling study of distant galaxies and the universe's formation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 24, 2012

NIH launches trial for rare degenerative muscle disease treatment

A clinical trial has begun to evaluate DEX-M74 as a treatment for hereditary inclusion body myopathy, a rare degenerative muscle disease. The study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of DEX-M74 in patients with progressive muscle weakness.

SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

In birds' development, researchers find diversity by the peck

New investigation reveals surprising flexibility in finches' beak development, with different species sharing same developmental pathways yet producing unique shapes. This discovery offers new insight into the adaptability of birds to fill various ecological niches.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

What does the feminization of family medicine mean?

Female family physicians in Canada are practising differently, working fewer hours and seeing more patients with longer visits, but younger male physicians also work less than older counterparts

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 24, 2012

Exposing cancer's lethal couriers

Researchers developed a new nanotechnology that detects micrometastases in mouse models of breast cancer, marking them for early diagnosis and treatment. The technology uses nanochains to target cancer cells with integrins, allowing doctors to guide surgery or deliver cancer-killing drugs directly to the cells before a tumor forms.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 24, 2012

Small proteins in the cornea protect against bacterial infection

Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that corneal epithelial cells express small antimicrobial peptides to defend against bacterial infection. These peptides prevent bacteria from binding to epithelial cells and are crucial in protecting the eye against infections, as evidenced by mice lacking cytokeratin 6A being more susceptible.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 24, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Newly discovered molecule could deliver drugs to treat diseases

Researchers at Kansas State University have designed a membrane-bounded vesicle formed entirely of peptides that can safely deliver drugs to specific cells in the body. The peptide vesicles offer advantages over existing drug delivery systems, such as improved stability and durability.

SourceKansas State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2012

Little evidence supports medical treatment options for adolescents with autism

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that there is insufficient evidence to support medical interventions in adolescents and young adults with autism. Key findings include the potential benefits of antipsychotic medications in reducing problem behaviors, but limited effectiveness for vocational interventions.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateSep 24, 2012

Pregnancy complications up to twice higher in women born preterm

Women born preterm face a significant increase in pregnancy complications, with risks rising for more premature births. The study, led by Dr. Anne Monique Nuyt, analyzed data from 7,405 women and found that one in five pregnancies involve complications for women born before 32 weeks of gestation.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 24, 2012

Human brains outpace chimp brains in the womb

A new study tracked brain growth in human and chimpanzee fetuses, finding that human brains begin to show remarkable differences after 22 weeks of gestation. The findings suggest a faster rate of brain growth in humans compared to chimpanzees.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

UCLA scientists fine-tune probe for early Alzheimer's detection

Researchers have discovered how chemical agents bind to and detect amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles in the brain, enabling quicker diagnosis and earlier treatment. The study's findings will speed the development of new imaging agents, providing potential benefits for patients with early Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012

Cutting through the genomic thicket in search of disease variants

Researchers developed EvoD to sift meaningful variants from thousands of mutations in personal genomes, improving diagnostic accuracy. The technique capitalizes on comparative genomics and exome analysis, showing promise for detecting functionally damaging gene variants associated with Mendelian diseases.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Methods·DateSep 24, 2012

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute engineer novel DNA barcode

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute engineer a new kind of DNA barcode that can come in an almost limitless array of styles, allowing for vastly more vital information to be gathered from cell samples. The method harnesses the natural ability of DNA to self-assemble, enabling low-cost and robust cellular imaging.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 24, 2012

MRI helps identify patients with prostate cancer who may benefit from active surveillance

A new study in The Journal of Urology presents promising results on the use of MRI to assess eligibility for active surveillance in men with clinically low risk prostate cancer. The findings suggest that clear tumor visualization on MRI is predictive of disease status upgrades on confirmatory biopsy, highlighting the potential of MRI t...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

Near-roadway air pollution a major contributor to asthma in Los Angeles County, USC research finds

A USC study indicates that at least 8% of childhood asthma cases in LA County can be attributed to traffic-related pollution within 250 feet of busy roadways. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through policies and near-roadway exposure can maximize health benefits. The research suggests a link between urban air pollution, including nit...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 24, 2012

Primate study adds to evidence of BPA harming human reproduction

A new study by WSU geneticist Patricia Hunt and colleagues reveals BPA can damage chromosomes, disrupt egg development, and increase the risk of miscarriages and birth defects in rhesus monkeys. The research bolsters earlier findings on reproductive effects in rodents and raises concerns about human exposure to this common chemical.

SourceWashington State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Treating ovarian cancer: New pathways through genetics

A Montreal-based research team has identified genetic patterns in ovarian cancer tumors that relate to patient survival after initial surgery. The study found that patients with mutant p53 protein had longer survival rates compared to those without.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 24, 2012

Researchers demonstrate cheaper way to produce NFO thin films

Researchers have demonstrated a less-expensive way to create textured nickel ferrite (NFO) ceramic thin films, which can easily be scaled up for manufacturing needs. The new technique allows for the creation of NFO thin films with an aligned crystalline structure, maximizing their magnetic properties.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateSep 24, 2012
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.

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.

Study analyzes variations in antibiotic prescribing among older patients

A study of Medicare data found wide variation in antibiotic prescribing for older adults based on region and season, with the South having the highest use and West the lowest. The study highlights the need for targeted quality improvement initiatives to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 24, 2012

White matter, old dogs, and new tricks at Dartmouth

A study published in the Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience found that brain white matter can change and adapt in response to long-term learning processes. Using diffusion tensor imaging, researchers observed significant structural changes in adults learning a complex skill over time.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateSep 24, 2012

Video: 3-D time-lapse imaging captures twisted root mechanics for first time

Using 3D time-lapse imaging, scientists have discovered that plant roots twist and buckle to generate force and push through barriers, allowing them to grow in difficult soil conditions. The study sheds new light on the mechanics of root growth and reveals a previously unknown connection between root geometry and force generation.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2012