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Science News Archive 2013


Page 331 of 352

Mistrust of government often deters older adults from HIV testing

A UCLA-led study found that older adults' general mistrust of the government and AIDS-related conspiracy theories significantly impact their willingness to get tested for HIV. Despite venues offering free testing, 45% of participants had not taken an HIV test in the past year.

UCSB research provides insight into mechanics of arthritis

Researchers at UCSB developed a new, low-cost method to detect the critical feature of 'stick-slip' friction in cartilage pads, which is more likely to cause wear and damage. This finding has potential for early detection and monitoring of osteoarthritis.

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.

'Moral realism' may lead to better moral behavior

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that priming participants with a belief in moral realism led to increased charitable donations, suggesting that considering objective moral facts can motivate people to behave better.

Using Twitter to track the flu: A better way to screen the Tweets

A new tweet-screening method developed by Johns Hopkins researchers delivers real-time data on flu cases, filtering out online chatter that is not linked to actual flu infections. The system produces accurate results comparable to government disease data, making it a valuable tool for public health officials.

New look at cell membrane reveals surprising organization

Researchers discovered that sphingolipids form larger domains than expected, clustering together to create micrometer-sized patches in the membrane. The presence of cholesterol affects lipid aggregation, but its role is more complex than initially thought.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Safeguards needed for tissue donors

Donors to biobanks have a moral stake in what happens to their tissue samples, requiring ongoing updates and protection of their rights. Tomlinson recommends biobanks provide donors with plain language summaries of research projects and inform them about potentially controversial uses.

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.

Understanding the human brain

The Human Brain Project seeks to integrate fragmented knowledge of the human brain through supercomputer-based models. Researchers will test conceptual models using simulated and real systems, aiming to refine models and develop new technologies.

Soya protein can be replaced by rapeseed protein

Researchers at Jena University found that rapeseed protein has comparable bioavailability to soya protein, making it a viable replacement option. This breakthrough study opens the door for rapeseed protein to be used in human nutrition, addressing global protein demands and reducing reliance on imported soya protein.

Real angry birds 'flip the bird' before a fight

Male swamp sparrows use wing waves as an aggressive signal to defend their territories and mates from intruding males. The study found that wing waves combined with song are more potent than song on its own, evoking aggression from live birds.

Diabetes drug could hold promise for lung cancer patients

Researchers found that phenformin, a derivative of metformin, decreased tumor size and increased survival in mice with advanced stage lung tumors lacking LKB1 gene. Early treatment with phenformin causes slower tumor progression and increased survival for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

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.

Global research team decodes genome sequence of 90 chickpea lines

A global research team has completed high-quality sequencing of 90 chickpea genomes, revealing clues on how to improve crop resilience. The study provides a map of the genes that define the chickpea plant, potentially leading to improved varieties with enhanced drought tolerance and disease resistance.

Treating constipation in seniors: A review of current treatments

Effective treatments for senior constipation include polyethylene glycol and lactulose, which increase colon water secretion and may alleviate symptoms. However, these agents can cause bloating and diarrhea, while stimulant laxatives like senna are effective but may lose effectiveness over time.

New publication guidelines for systematic reviews from BMC Medicine

The new publication guidelines for systematic reviews cover two types of analysis: realist synthesis and meta-narrative reviews. These guidelines aim to provide a standard framework for researchers to report their methods and findings, ensuring thorough peer-review and consistency in methodology.

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.

AGU Journal Highlights -- Jan. 28, 2013

Recent AGU journal publications highlight the impact of Io's volcanism on Jupiter's magnetosphere and project substantial increases in U.S. water demand due to climate warming, with irrigation and air conditioning driving demands, posing sustainability concerns.

Glial cells assist in the repair of injured nerves

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine found that peripheral glial cells produce neuregulin1 to support nerve repair and myelin regeneration. Neuregulin1 is essential for the maturation of Schwann cells and the regeneration of damaged nerves.

Primates too can move in unison

Researchers from RIKEN Brain Science Institute found that pairs of macaque monkeys modify their body movements to be in tune with others. This phenomenon may reflect bonding and facilitate human interaction, shedding light on conditions like autism spectrum disorders.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Artificial pancreas: The way of the future for treating type 1 diabetes

Researchers developed an artificial pancreas that simulates normal pancreatic function by adapting insulin delivery based on changes in glucose levels. The system showed a 15% improvement in glucose control and significantly reduced the risk of hypoglycemia compared to conventional insulin pump therapy.

Fewer people adding salt at the table

A national salt reduction campaign in the UK led to a decline in adults adding salt at the table, from 32.5% to 23.2%, over five years. The campaign showed a greater reduction after its introduction, with differences found among demographic groups, including women and younger age groups.

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.

Skin, soft tissue infections succumb to blue light

Researchers discovered that blue light can selectively eradicate Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections of the skin and soft tissues, while preserving the outermost layer. This breakthrough could provide a potential non-toxic approach to treating resistant bacterial infections.

When food porn holds no allure: The science behind satiety

New research reveals insulin's role in reducing desire for food after eating, impacting environmental triggers of overeating. The study found that insulin affects the ventral tegmental area, a region linked to reward-seeking behavior and addictive behaviors.

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.

Slow-release 'jelly' delivers drugs better

Duke University engineers developed a novel delivery system that overcomes the limitations of peptide drugs, which are used to treat diseases like diabetes and cancer. The new system, called POD, uses a fusion protein that releases the drug slowly and steadily, reducing side effects.

The tales teeth tell

Researchers at Harvard University challenged long-held assumptions about juvenile primate tooth development and weaning by studying chimpanzees in the wild. The study found that many young chimps continued to nurse as much, if not more, than before after their first molar erupted.

Best friends influence when teenagers have first drink

A University of Iowa-led study found that adolescents whose best friends drink alcohol are twice as likely to have a first drink and three times as likely to begin drinking themselves. The study aims to help specialists predict when adolescents are likely to first consume alcohol to prevent problem drinking.

With hot air treatment, bacteria fly the coop

A study by USDA scientists found that treating poultry cages with heated forced air at 122 degrees Fahrenheit can eliminate detectable Campylobacter levels on cage flooring. This method is more effective than static heat or unheated flowing air in reducing bacterial cross-contamination.

First guidelines for brain amyloid imaging in Alzheimer's released

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has published the first guidelines for brain amyloid imaging in Alzheimer's disease, providing a framework for healthcare practitioners to determine when to order this test. The guidelines emphasize that amyloid PET imaging should be used judiciously, particularly among elderly indi...

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.

Power helps you live the good life by bringing you closer to your true self

Research suggests that being in a position of power can enhance subjective well-being through increased feelings of authenticity. The study found that powerful individuals are more content and experience greater happiness due to their ability to act in congruence with their internal desires and inclinations.

IST Austria contributes to Human Brain Project

IST Austria professor Peter Jonas is one of three Austrian collaborators in the €1 billion Human Brain Project. He contributes his research on cellular and subcellular parameters, crucial for accurate modeling of the brain.

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.

Hospital patient loads often at unsafe levels, physician survey says

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that hospitalists nationwide report daily patient loads frequently exceed safe levels, posing risks to patients' safety and quality of care. The study revealed that one in five physicians feels their workload puts patients at risk for serious complications.

Radial access should be first choice for PCI says ESC

The radial approach for percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) is associated with reduced bleeding complications and improved survival rates, particularly in STEMI patients. The European Society of Cardiology recommends radial access as the default strategy for PCI in high-risk acute coronary syndromes.

New research uncovers the neural mechanism underlying drug cravings

Researchers found that the lateral and orbital regions of the frontal cortex interact during drug-related cues, suggesting that addiction may result from abnormal brain circuitry. The study's findings suggest that a therapeutic approach for addiction could be developed by targeting this neural circuit.

Bioinspired fibers change color when stretched

Researchers at Harvard University have developed color-changing photonic fibers inspired by nature, which can pass through a full rainbow of colors as they're stretched. The fibers' superior mechanical properties make them versatile for various applications, including smart sports textiles and sensors.

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.

New technique sheds light on RNA

A new technique called Bru-Seq allows researchers to label newly created RNA, enabling them to analyze the synthesis and stability of RNA in cancer cells. This breakthrough has the potential to provide deeper insights into gene expression and identify early warning signs of disease.

Pandemic controversies: The global response to pandemic influenza must change

A new paper argues that current approaches to pandemic preparedness are flawed and propose alternative strategies. By prioritizing the needs of the world's poorest and most vulnerable people, we can develop more effective responses to pandemics. This approach would involve re-examining the role of pharmaceuticals, improving disease sur...

Link found between insulin sensitivity, cells' powerhouses

Researchers discovered a paradoxical relationship between diminished mitochondrial function and increased insulin sensitivity in mice. The study found that mice with mitochondrial mutations lived longer and had reduced body fat due to increased fat utilization.

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.

Innovative uses of nanotechnology in food and agriculture

A special issue of Industrial Biotechnology explores innovative uses of nanotechnology in food and agriculture, including nanoparticle bioactivity, soil denitrification, and nutrient microencapsulation. Researchers discuss promising applications and methods for industrial biotech innovation.

Clinical trials with nonblinded outcome assessors have high observer bias

A systematic review of 24 randomized clinical trials found significant observer bias in nonblinded outcome assessment, favoring a more beneficial treatment effect. The study recommends using blinded assessors to remove this bias and suggests that conscientious nonblinded assessors may overcompensate for expected biases.

New LGBT Health journal launching in 2013

A new peer-reviewed journal will identify crucial LGBT healthcare needs and provide a much-needed authoritative source for LGBT health research. The journal will promote optimal healthcare for millions of sexual and gender minority persons worldwide by focusing on their specific health concerns.

1 in, 2 out: Simulating more efficient solar cells

Computer simulations show that nanoparticles of silicon BC8 can generate multiple electron-hole pairs per photon, increasing maximum efficiency to 42% beyond conventional solar cells. Using parabolic mirrors to focus sunlight could further boost efficiency up to 70%

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

A new material for environmentally friendlier electronics

A new compound, diisopropylammonium bromide (DIPAB), has been created as a ferroelectric material with low environmental impact and economical benefits. It can be processed easily from aqueous solution and may replace traditional materials in the production of electronic devices.