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Science News Archive January 2013 - Page 6


Page 6 of 27

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...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 28, 2013

Dual-hormone artificial pancreas is a step closer for patients with Type 1 diabetes

A randomized trial shows that the dual-hormone artificial pancreas system improved glucose levels and reduced hypoglycemia compared to conventional pump treatment in patients with Type 1 diabetes. The system delivered insulin and glucagon using continuous glucose sensor readings and an intelligent dosing algorithm.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 28, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

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.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuroIntervention·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceRIKEN·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceHarvard University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

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.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2013

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...

SourceInstitute of Development Studies·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalIndustrial Biotechnology·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

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.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateJan 28, 2013

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%

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 28, 2013

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.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

Injecting botox into stomach does not promote weight loss

A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that injecting botulinum toxin A (Botox) into the stomach does not cause weight loss. The Mayo Clinic researchers used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to compare the effects of BTA to placebo.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 28, 2013

New look at cell membrane reveals surprising organization

A new study by University of Illinois researchers reveals that lipids in the cell membrane form larger domains than previously thought, with cholesterol playing a key role in their organization. The findings challenge current understanding of cell membrane structure and function.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2013

Study finds taking the stairs, raking leaves may have same health benefits as a trip to the gym

A study of over 6,000 American adults found that incorporating short bursts of physical activity into daily life can be beneficial for improving health outcomes such as metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure. Researchers suggest making movement a way of life by adding activity to everyday tasks like walking or raking leaves.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateJan 28, 2013

Smart organizations should also be stupid according to new theory

According to a new theory by Mats Alvesson and André Spicer, functional stupidity can raise productivity in organizations by promoting unity and consensus. However, this 'stupidity' can also lead to risks and problems if critical questions are not posed about decisions and structures.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of Management·DateJan 28, 2013

A safer way to vaccinate

Researchers at MIT have developed a new type of vaccine-delivery film that gradually releases DNA coding for viral proteins, potentially overcoming safety risks and improving effectiveness. The film is implanted under the skin using microneedles and degrades over time, releasing the vaccine over days or weeks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

Islet transplant may slow progression of atherosclerosis

Researchers found a significant decrease in carotid intima-media thickness one year after islet transplant, indicating slower atherosclerosis progression. Patients achieved insulin independence and showed improved glycemic control.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJan 28, 2013

Discovering the missing 'LINC' to deafness

A team of researchers has discovered a significant mutation in a LINC family protein that could lead to new treatments for hearing disorders. The mutation causes chaos in the cell's anatomy, leading to devastating effects on cells responsible for hearing.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

Researchers find genes behind aggressive endometrial cancer

Researchers at Yale University have defined the genetic landscape of uterine serous carcinoma (USC), a chemo-resistant form of endometrial cancer. The study identifies three previously unknown genes that play a role in tumor growth and development, offering new avenues for personalized therapy.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 28, 2013

Study shows climate change could affect onset and severity of flu seasons

A recent study suggests that climate change could result in earlier onset and increased severity of flu seasons. The research team analyzed waves of influenza and climate patterns in the US from 1997-1998 to present, indicating a pattern where warm winters are followed by heavy flu seasons.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPLOS Currents·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

Why are there redheads? Birds might hold the clues

A study published in Physiological and Biochemical Zoology found that birds with pheomelanin-based plumage coloration had higher survival rates than those without it. The researchers suggest that the production of this pigment may help sequester excess amino acids, providing a beneficial effect under certain conditions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateJan 28, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine early release article for Jan. 29, 2013

The ACIP has updated its recommended 2013 adult immunization schedule to include new guidelines for the use of pneumococcal conjugate and influenza vaccines. The updated schedule also recommends routine Tdap vaccination for adults aged 65 or older, pregnant women, and all patients over 6 months old against influenza.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 28, 2013

New study shows stable fisher population in the Southern Sierra Nevada

A recent study by the USDA Forest Service's Pacific Southwest Research Station has found that fisher populations in the southern Sierra Nevada are stable. The research, which monitored fisher distribution across a 7,606-square-mile area over eight years, found no increase or decrease in population numbers.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·JournalJournal of Fish and Wildlife Management·DateJan 28, 2013

Study finds energy use in cities has global climate effects

Researchers discover that urban heat generated by metropolitan areas can cause continental-scale surface warming in high latitudes, leading to remote temperature changes. The study suggests that the influence of energy consumption should be considered in computer models to predict future climate change.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 28, 2013
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.

Cities affect temperatures for thousands of miles

A new study reveals that human activities in cities alter atmospheric circulation patterns, leading to significant warming in northern Asia and North America. The study found that the 'waste heat' generated by urban areas can widen the jet stream and increase temperatures across large distances.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 27, 2013

ASU scientists unravel the mysteries of spider silk

Researchers have uncovered the elastic properties of spider silk, with variations among fibers, junctions, and glue spots. The findings provide a blueprint for structural engineering of strong, stretchy, and elastic materials.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 27, 2013
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.

Accelerating neutral atoms on a table top

Research at Ultra Short Pulse High Intensity Lab in TIFR has found a novel scheme to accelerate neutral particles over millimeters using lasers. The concept uses powerful lasers to strip electrons from argon atoms, accelerating charged ions to high energies.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 27, 2013

Stem cells aid recovery from stroke

A study published in BioMed Central's Stem Cell Research & Therapy journal found that stem cells from bone marrow or fat improved brain and nerve repair after stroke in rats. The treated animals showed significant functional recovery, even without the stem cells migrating to the damaged area.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·DateJan 27, 2013

CSHL neuroscientists pinpoint location of fear memory in amygdala

A recent study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers has identified a specific class of neurons in the central amygdala as crucial for encoding and recalling fear memories. The team used optogenetics to activate these neurons, which release neurotransmitters that enhance or inhibit synaptic connections, leading to fear responses.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 27, 2013

Measuring the consequence of forest fires on public health

Researchers used dispensary records to measure the effect of forest fires on people with chronic lung diseases. The study found that even small increases in smoke were associated with higher salbutamol dispensations, highlighting the impact of pollution on public health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJan 27, 2013
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.

Poor sleep in old age prevents the brain from storing memories

Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, have found a link between poor sleep, memory loss and brain deterioration in older adults. Boosting 'slow wave' sleep may help restore memory, suggesting a potentially new treatment avenue for age-related memory loss.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 27, 2013

Singapore scientists led by A*STAR's GIS identify 4 mechanisms that contribute to gastric cancers

Researchers at A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore discovered four processes that cause mutations in gastric cancer, including one triggered by bacterial infection. These findings pave the way for diagnostics and targeted therapy, with potential implications for improving treatment outcomes.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 27, 2013

Rice technique points toward 2-D devices

Rice University scientists develop a technique to combine single-atom-thick graphene and hexagonal boron nitride into sheets with controlled patterns. The new method enables the creation of fully functional devices with circuits on the same scale as current semiconductor fabrication.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 27, 2013

Demagnetization by rapid spin transport

Researchers find that hot electrons generated by laser pulses cause ultrafast demagnetization in nickel, not the light itself. The study suggests a new possibility for spintronics research.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 27, 2013
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.

No more 'empty nest:' middle-aged adults face family pressure on both sides

A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that middle-aged adults are struggling to balance the demands of caring for both young adult children and aging parents. While most feel positive about helping their kids, many struggle with supporting their aging parents due to increasing needs and uncertainty.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Aging Studies·DateJan 25, 2013

Quantum communication: Each photon counts

A new single-photon detector has been developed, achieving a previously unattained detection efficiency of 91% and low error rate. The detector's high performance enables reliable detection of single photons, crucial for optical data transmission and quantum computation.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 25, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Jan. 25, 2013

Researchers found that stress accelerates prostate cancer development in mice, while a genetic mutation in the NESP4 gene disrupts a cellular complex essential for hearing. Combining green tea extract with vardenafil enhances anti-cancer effects in a mouse model of multiple myeloma.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 25, 2013

Prostate cancer cells thrive on stress

A recent study found that stress can accelerate prostate cancer development in mice, with adrenaline blocking cancer cell death. Conversely, drugs that inhibited adrenaline signaling ablated the effect of stress on prostate cancer. This suggests that beta-blockers could enhance the effectiveness of anti-cancer therapies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 25, 2013
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.

Cows fed flaxseed produce more nutritious dairy products

A new study by Oregon State University found that cows fed flaxseed produced milk with lower saturated fat and higher omega-3 levels. The study also found improvements in butter and cheese, but suggested that the increased polyunsaturated fats did not compromise their nutritional value.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateJan 25, 2013

Dartmouth research offers new control strategies for bipolar bark beetles

A Dartmouth study suggests that increasing competitor and predator beetle populations can prevent population explosions of pine beetles, a major forest pest. The research confirms that some species, like the southern pine beetle, exhibit extreme fluctuations in abundance with no middle ground.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPopulation Ecology·DateJan 25, 2013

Researchers identify new target for rheumatoid arthritis

IRHOM2 is a protein that regulates TACE on immune cells, and blocking it could provide an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers found that mice deficient in IRHOM2 were protected from inflammatory arthritis.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 25, 2013
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.