Team reports on abuse of students doing anthropological fieldwork
A new report documents harassment, abuse, or assaults of young researchers in biological anthropology fieldwork. Larger research sites tend to have fewer incidents than smaller ones.
Science News Archive 2013 - Page 256
Browse by Month - 2013
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New breast imaging algorithm brings breast cancer diagnosis and treatment to underserved area of Uganda
A new breast imaging algorithm is being implemented in Uganda to diagnose and treat women with palpable breast masses. The program combines a unique diagnostic algorithm with targeted community outreach to combat myths surrounding cancer, aiming for early diagnosis and effective care.
ASPB names 2013 awards recipients
The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) recognizes outstanding achievements in plant biology through its 2013 awards. The recipients include Natasha Raikhel for her contributions to protein trafficking and service to the discipline, as well as Robert Turgeon for his work on phloem transport.
MDCT helps better determine valve implant size for transcatheter aortic valve in patients with aortic stenosis
A new study suggests MDCT is more accurate than echocardiography for measuring annular size in TAVI candidates. This improvement can lead to better procedure success and valve selection, potentially changing the decision for 55% of patients.
Tomosynthesis improves detection of infiltrating ductal carcinoma in patients with increased risk
Tomosynthesis surpasses 2D mammography in detecting infiltrating ductal carcinoma, particularly in women at increased risk of breast cancer. The study found that tomosynthesis improved visibility in 41% of cases and identified cancers only visible on tomosynthesis.
Dual energy CT accurately identifies ACL tears in emergency department
A new study shows that dual energy CT is an effective way to evaluate emergency department patients with possible ACL tears. The imaging technique accurately identified ACL tears in 94% of cases, making it a promising alternative to MRI.
Additional imaging gives better view and reduces complications in patients needing gastric tubes
Researchers found that combining fluoroscopy and CT scans reduces major complications during gastric tube insertion by nearly eliminating misplacement errors.
MR images taken during the systole phase improve diagnoses of scars on the heart
New study finds MR images taken during systole phase show more accurate detection of myocardial scars in ischemic cardiomyopathy patients. Systolic images revealed scars not visible on diastolic images, particularly in the left ventricle area prone to ischemic damage.
Decreasing KV reduces radiation dose in lumbar spine CT without compromising quality
A new algorithm optimizes tube potential for patients undergoing lumbar spine CT exams, resulting in a 41% reduction in radiation dose. The study found that lower kilovoltage images maintained diagnostic quality despite increased image noise.
L-carnitine significantly improves patient outcomes following heart attack
A systematic review of 13 controlled studies found L-carnitine significantly reduces all-cause mortality, ventricular arrhythmias, and angina attacks following a heart attack. The therapy also improves cardiac health by improving free fatty acid levels and glucose oxidation.
CO2 removal can lower costs of climate protection
A new study suggests that carbon dioxide removal can alleviate the most costly components of climate change mitigation, allowing for more flexible emissions control. The study found that bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (CCS) could halve aggregate mitigation costs over the 21st century if available.
Volcano seismologist Randall White honored for public service, saving lives
Randall White, a renowned volcano seismologist, has been recognized by the Seismological Society of America (SSA) for his dedication to public service and seismic forecasting. He has saved countless lives through his work in predicting volcanic eruptions, sharing his techniques with international partners.
University of Houston Hispanic studies chair receives Fulbright grant
Ana Bencomo, chair of UH Hispanic studies, has been awarded a Core Fulbright U.S. Scholar Grant to study the Mexican journalistic chronicle genre and its reporting on narco-violence. She will teach courses at the University of Guadalajara and conduct research, exploring the intersection of journalism, literature, and identity.
Compact multipurpose scooter for crowded megacities
The VOI is a compact, two-wheeler electric scooter designed to transport passengers safely and comfortably through congested city streets. Its modular design allows for various configurations, including cargo boxes and mobile kitchens.
American College of Physicians unveils tools to improve acute coronary syndrome care
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has introduced two evidence-based interventions and two videos to enhance patient-clinician communication in the first year following an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) event. The initiatives aim to improve health outcomes by providing a patient guide, clinician support tool, and video resources.
Teenage smoking behavior influenced by friends' and parents' smoking habits
New research from USC highlights opportunities for smoking intervention programs that target junior high and parental influence. The study found that friends' influence on cigarette use was higher in junior high than high school, while parental influence remained relatively stable.
SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 12, 2013
Study proposes alternative way to explain life's complexity
Researchers propose a new theory of evolutionary development, suggesting that complex structures may emerge through the process of 'complexity by subtraction', where parts are lost or simplified over time. Computer models and trends in skull evolution support this idea, which challenges traditional incremental evolution.
New bird flu strain seen adapting to mammals, humans
A genetic analysis of the avian flu virus reveals it is evolving to adapt to human cells, allowing it to efficiently infect humans. The study found that the virus can grow in human cells at a lower temperature than birds, posing a significant risk to human health.
Cheers to better beer and disease resistance
Scientists at the John Innes Centre revived a classic heritage barley variety called Chevallier, which has shown valuable disease resistance. The new barley is set to improve beer production by preventing contamination with mycotoxins, leading to better-tasting beers like Porter and India Pale Ale.
IFR scientists use the force to decode secrets of our gut
Researchers at Norwich BioScience Institutes use atomic force microscopy to analyze mucins and their interactions with beneficial and disease-causing bacteria. The study aims to understand the role of mucus in maintaining a healthy gut and develop new insights into gut diseases.
Fires in Central America
Widespread fires were observed in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras in a NASA satellite image taken on April 11, 2013. The fires may be caused by the region's dry season or deliberate actions by farmers to clear old crops.
All chins are not created equal
A Northwestern University study reveals that facial preferences differ among populations, with distinct chin shapes found across various groups. The findings suggest that human mate choices are influenced by factors beyond physical attractiveness.
Gene may help identify risk of Alzheimer's in African Americans, Mayo Clinic says
Researchers found that the APOE gene and ABCA7 gene were significant risk factors for late-onset Alzheimer's disease in African Americans. The study also suggests that these genes may be shared with Caucasians, but with different variants. Further studies are needed to understand the biologic implications of these findings.
Secrets of bacterial slime revealed
Researchers discovered a molecular switch regulating biofilm formation, which could help identify new antibiotics and prevent biofilms from forming. The study sheds light on how bacteria shield themselves in a slimy protective layer to evade attacks.
Exercise or make dinner? Study finds adults trade one healthy act for another
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that adults who spend more time preparing food tend to exercise less, and vice versa. The study analyzed data from over 112,000 American adults and found a substitution effect between these two healthy behaviors on the same day.
UCSB scientists find resilience in shelled plants exposed to ocean acidification
A team led by UCSB professors found that certain microscopic shelled plants, such as Emiliania huxleyi, can tolerate high levels of carbon dioxide and even increase shell production, but may grow slower. This discovery suggests variable responses in marine organisms to ocean acidification.
Clues to heart disease in unexpected places, Temple researchers discover
A team of scientists at Temple University School of Medicine has identified a key molecule, GRK2, in mitochondria that contributes to the death of heart cells. The researchers found that blocking this enzyme's activity can prevent its delivery to mitochondria and reduce pro-death signaling.
New device could cut costs on household products, pharmaceuticals
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a new procedure that thickens and thins fluid at the micron level, potentially saving consumers and manufacturers money. The process creates a permanent scaffold-like network that could be useful for biological applications, such as detecting certain diseases.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2013
Study shows severity of sleep apnea is influenced by race
A new study suggests that obstructive sleep apnea severity is higher in African-American men, particularly in certain age ranges. The study found a significant association between race and AHI after controlling for demographic factors, with African-American men showing increased breathing pauses per hour of sleep compared to white men.
NASA's TRMM Satellite sees Cyclone Victoria being blown apart
Cyclone Victoria was torn apart by strong wind shear, with TRMM spotting limited rainfall areas. The storm dissipated due to interaction with cool waters.
Asbestos exposure, asbestosis, and smoking combined greatly increase lung cancer risk
A new study found that combining asbestos exposure, asbestosis, and smoking significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk after long-term asbestos exposure.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 12, 2013
NASA satellite imagery shows Cyclone Imelda one-sided
New NASA satellite imagery shows Cyclone Imelda's strongest thunderstorms and precipitation located east of the storm's center. An upper-level trough is causing subsidence, preventing clouds from forming as air sinks to the surface.
ORIENTplus upgrade supercharges EU-China collaborative research and education
The ORIENTplus upgrade provides a high-capacity e-infrastructure for EU-China collaborations, enabling data-intensive projects like Large Hadron Collider and genome research. The upgraded link supports robust networks, scalable storage, and fast compute for world-class research and education.
Disappearing nannies force parents to accept their duties
A team of researchers from the University of Bristol and the University of Bern studied the investment strategies of dominant pairs in a species of cichlid fish. They found that removing large helpers for 30 days allowed dominants to reduce their territorial duties, with new helpers taking over after seven days.
Experimental study suggests bone-marrow grafts show promise for some sufferers of low-back pain
Researchers investigated the use of bone-marrow grafts to treat low-back pain. The study found that some patients experienced complete pain relief after treatment, while others showed no improvement.
Healing by the clock
Researchers found that intestinal stem-cell regeneration in fruit flies varies with the time of day, with gut healing being more effective at certain times. This study sheds light on how circadian rhythms control daily functions and has potential applications for human health, including optimizing chemotherapy timing.
New research helps place modern temperatures into a more complete statistical framework
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new statistical model to compare modern and historical temperatures. The study found that the warmest summers in the last two decades are unprecedented in the previous six centuries.
The age of stress: Science and the search for stability
The book reveals how science, socio-political, cultural, and biological factors have shaped our understanding of stress since the late nineteenth century. Professor Mark Jackson's work highlights the link between stress and disease, tracing it back to Hungarian scientist Hans Selye's theories.
Study: Pain improves during first year but mental-health problems linger
A study of returning veterans with major limb injuries found that while pain improved significantly within the first year, mental health problems such as depression and PTSD persisted. The research highlighted the need for ongoing biobehavioral pain and psychological care to help severely injured veterans cope with their pain and trauma.
Full range of treatment settings and their effects on radiofrequency heat lesion size
Researchers found that cannula gauge, tip length, set temperature, and lesion time significantly impact heat lesion width and length in radiofrequency treatments. The study provides new insights for pain management and treatment precision.
Diamond as a building material for optical circuits
Polycrystalline diamond is used to manufacture monolithic components for optical circuits, combining integrated optics with mechanical elements. The material's high refractive index, low absorption, and modulus of elasticity enable efficient photon transport and robustness.
Fires in the Yucatan Peninsula
Dozens of fires have been detected in the Yucatan Peninsula, with many believed to be deliberately set for agriculture purposes. The region is experiencing its dry season, which often leads to an increase in fires.
Spring fling: Sun emits a mid-level flare
A mid-level solar flare, classified as an M6.5 flare, was detected by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory on April 11, 2013, producing a radio blackout. The flare disrupted radio signals for hours and is the strongest seen in 2013 so far.
Cyclone Imelda turned the corner on NASA satellite imagery
NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of Cyclone Imelda on April 11, revealing a well-developed storm with tightly-curved bands of thunderstorms. The storm turned to the south due to wind shear, with powerful thunderstorms dropping heavy rainfall and having cloud top temperatures colder than -63 Fahrenheit.
Fires in India and Nepal
Dozens of agricultural fires have been set in India and Nepal, with the NASA MODIS satellite capturing their extent. The fires are outlined in red on this natural-color image from April 06, 2013.
Research shows promise for microwave ablation (MWA) to relieve painful bone and soft-tissue tumors
Researchers found microwave ablation (MWA) therapy cut pain in half for patients with bone and soft-tissue tumors, lasting up to 15 months. MWA was faster than radiofrequency ablation, with less risk of complications.
Researchers call for marine observation network
A comprehensive marine biodiversity observation network could be established within 5 years with modest funding, addressing gaps in understanding global marine organism distribution under climate change threats. The network would help identify threats like exotic species invasions and resolve conflicts over ocean management.
Fires in Southeast Asia
Fires in Southeast Asia are ongoing, with crop burning identified as a primary cause. NASA images capture the extent of these fires, which can have devastating environmental impacts.
Sea mammals find US safe harbor
Research reveals many marine mammal populations are increasing, with some recovering to near carrying capacity. The MMPA's strong protections against commercial and accidental killing have contributed to these recoveries.
Regulating density of alcohol outlets a promising strategy to improve public health
A new report highlights regulating alcohol outlet density as an effective strategy to reduce excessive drinking and related harms. By limiting outlets per population or using land-use powers, localities can address excessive drinking and create healthier communities.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateApr 11, 2013
Researchers measure reaction rates of second key atmospheric component
The study provides insight into hydrocarbon combustion and atmospheric chemistry, confirming fast reactions and first-time measurements with water. The findings validate theoretical predictions and supply critical targets for validation in predicting Criegee intermediate reactions.
High-dose opioids disturb hormones long-term, but mental and physiologic function improves
A study of 40 patients on high-dose opioid therapy found improved pain control and mental outlook, but also significant hormonal disturbances and signs of inflammation. Despite these complications, the majority of patients reported improvements in at least one physiologic function.
New technique measures evaporation globally
Researchers at Columbia University developed a method to map evaporation globally using weather stations, enabling scientists to evaluate water resource management and assess recent trends. The technique uses air temperature and humidity measurements to obtain daily evaporation rates.
NASA infrared image identifies several areas of power in Cyclone Imelda
Cyclone Imelda continues to strengthen with powerful convection throughout the storm. Infrared satellite imagery captures cloud top temperatures indicating stronger uplift and higher thunderstorm development. The cyclone is moving west-southwest at 4 knots, influenced by a high-pressure ridge and a low-pressure trough.
Cell-destroyer that fights and promotes TB reveals what's behind its split identity
Researchers found that excess tumor necrosis factor production initially kills TB pathogens, but later encourages their growth. Certain drug combinations can reverse this effect, potentially reverting hypersusceptibility to hyperresistance.
New techniques reduce the complications of spinal cord stimulator implant
Researchers developed two innovative techniques to minimize lead migration and anchor site pain in spinal cord stimulators. Advanced anchoring and multiple lead placement through a single port reduced complications and improved patient outcomes.
Soy-based compound may reduce tumor cell proliferation in colorectal cancer
Researchers at Mount Sinai have identified a soy-based compound, genistein, that can inhibit tumor cell growth and block Wnt signaling hyperactivity in colorectal cancer. Genistein has shown promise as an adjunctive treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer when used in combination with chemotherapy.
Scientists map elusive 3-D structure of telomerase enzyme, key actor in cancer, aging
Researchers from UCLA and UC Berkeley have solved the puzzle of the telomerase enzyme complex's three-dimensional structure, revealing its role in cancer and aging. The discovery opens up new approaches to fighting disease, particularly cancer, by allowing for targeted drug development.
Ice cloud heralds fall at Titan's south pole
A new ice cloud has appeared over Titan's south pole, marking the onset of a global air circulation reversal. The cloud is composed of an unknown ice type and appears to be building rapidly, while its northern counterpart is slowly fading.
Fossilized teeth provide new insight into human ancestor
Researchers analyze fossilized teeth of Australopithecus sediba and find it shares common dental traits with early humans. The study suggests that sediba is a close relative to humans, but its position in human evolution remains uncertain.