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Science News for June 10, 2013


Radioimmunotherapy could extend lives of advanced lymphoma patients

Researchers developed a new treatment combining chemotherapy and radioimmunotherapy, which showed significant improvement in survival rates without recurrence. Patients who received this treatment had a 64% chance of survival and a 100% chance of survival at two-year follow-up.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

New Loyola study on hepatitis C virus entry factor

Researchers at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine identified the disruption of iron uptake receptor TfR1 in Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected cells. The study shows that TfR1 mediates HCV entry and contributes to hepatic iron overload, a common complication in chronic HCV infections.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Women can be screened years later than men with 'virtual colonoscopy'

A new study found that virtual colonoscopy screenings can be safely delayed for women by 5-10 years compared to men, with minimal impact on cancer detection rates. The findings suggest that women under 55 may only need to undergo screening every 10 years, while those over 60 can wait up to 5 years longer.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJun 10, 2013

Whitebark pine trees: Is their future at risk?

Research suggests that fragmented pine stands hinder seed production, reducing regeneration. Whitebark pines' viability depends on pollen release, wind, and proximity, making their future uncertain with dwindling gene pools.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateJun 10, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Study reveals leakage of carbon from land to rivers, lakes, estuaries and coastal regions

A new study found that human activities are increasing the movement of carbon from land to rivers, estuaries, and coastal regions, with a significant fraction stored in aquatic systems. This discovery affects current estimates of carbon storage on land, highlighting the need for accurate assessments of the 'land-ocean aquatic continuum'.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 10, 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.

Research shows river dredging reduced fish numbers, diversity

Researchers found reduced populations of small, bottom-dwelling fishes like darters and increased sedimentation rates due to dredging alter habitats, leading to regime shifts in fish species. This study highlights the complex effects of human activities on aquatic ecosystems in large rivers.

SourcePenn State·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateJun 10, 2013

A potential new target to thwart antibiotic resistance

Researchers discover gut viruses confer antibiotic resistance to bacteria by transferring genes that help them withstand multiple antibiotics, raising concerns about the emergence of superbugs and the need for a new approach to mitigate development of antibiotic resistance

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature·DateJun 10, 2013

Unfrozen mystery: H2O reveals a new secret

Researchers use revolutionary techniques to observe hydrogen atoms in ice at unprecedented pressures, revealing two different mechanisms of dissociation. The findings could alter our understanding of energy science and have implications for studying planetary interiors.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Early exposure to bisphenol A might damage the enamel of teeth

Research suggests that early exposure to bisphenol A can damage the enamel of teeth in children, similar to a previously identified pathology known as MIH. The study found that low doses of BPA can cause mineral depletion and lead to hypomineralisation, making teeth more fragile and prone to cavities.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJun 10, 2013

Effect of use of vegetable fat on risk of death in men with prostate cancer

Replacing carbohydrates with vegetable fat may be associated with a lower risk of death in men with nonmetastatic prostate cancer, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. The study found that men who consumed more vegetable fat had a lower risk of lethal prostate cancer and all-cause mortality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

China is outsourcing carbon within its own borders, UCI and others find

A study by UCI and others found that China is outsourcing carbon emissions within its own borders, with 80% of CO2 emissions from coastal provinces coming from poorer interior provinces. This domestic outsourcing is driven by pollution abatement targets, which prioritize reductions in more developed areas.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

How cells get a skeleton

A study found that high levels of contractile stress in animal cells can lead to the formation of a condensed layer of filaments beneath the cell membrane. This new understanding provides insight into the cortical layer's structure and function.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJun 10, 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.

The body electric: Researchers move closer to low-cost, implantable electronics

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a coating that can protect silicon-based electronics from interfering with the human body's electrolytes. This breakthrough technology could lead to sensors that detect organ rejection and enable the development of implantable devices that replace damaged nerves.

SourceOhio State University·JournalElectronics Letters·DateJun 10, 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.

Flowering at the right age

Researchers from Max Planck Institute find that Alpine rock cress measures age based on miR156 concentration, which decreases over time. This allows the plant to synchronize growth and flowering with environmental cues like vernalisation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 2013

Pendulum swings back on 350-year-old mathematical mystery

Researchers develop mathematical approach to understand synchrony in medical and ecological conditions, with potential applications in epilepsy and predator-prey systems. The formula analyzes indirect coupling in complex systems, enabling predictions and tests through experiments.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 10, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

To cut China's CO2 emissions, account for outsourcing

A new study finds that China's CO2 emissions are largely driven by products consumed in other provinces or countries, not just where they're produced. The researchers propose a consumption-based accounting approach to reduce emissions and promote fair distribution of responsibilities globally.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Men with prostate cancer should eat healthy vegetable fats

A UC San Francisco-led study found that men with non-metastatic prostate cancer who consumed more healthy vegetable fats had a lower risk of developing lethal prostate cancer and dying from other causes. Replacing 10% of daily calories with these fats was associated with a 29% lower risk of lethal prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

World Stem Cell Summit to be presented by Genetics Policy Institute, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., and Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News

The 2013 World Stem Cell Report will be published as a special supplement to the peer-reviewed journal Stem Cells and Development. The report delivers an orbital and unique viewpoint on regenerative medicine, featuring content from leading policy-makers, regulators, and experts.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateJun 10, 2013

Crystal Clear: Real-time 3-D motion tracking optimizes PET/MR scans

The new technology uses tiny radiofrequency solenoids to track patient movement, optimizing image reconstruction and reducing artifacts. This innovation improves brain imaging for patients with dementia, leading to better diagnostic imaging and therapy monitoring.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

British butterfly desperate for warm weather this summer

A recent study by the University of Exeter found that localized temperature fluctuations have a significant impact on silver-spotted skipper populations. The research suggests that saving habitats with diverse microclimates is crucial for conserving this species under changing climate conditions.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEcology Letters·DateJun 10, 2013

Molecular imaging enlists prostate enzyme to detect metastases

Researchers have developed a novel imaging agent, Tc-99m MIP-1404, which binds to PSMA enzyme in prostate cancer cells, enabling detection of metastases. The agent shows promise in detecting lesions more accurately than standard bone imaging.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

Software toolkit shapes models for personalized radionuclide therapy

A new software toolkit combines deformable anthropomorphic models with precision dosimetry to determine the most effective cancer-killing dose for every patient. This approach enables personalized radionuclide drug therapies, leading to improved outcomes and better survival rates.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 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.

Reduced brain volume in kids with low birth-weight tied to academic struggles

A study of 97 adolescents born with very low birth weight found a link between smaller brain volumes and poor academic achievement. The research team also discovered that many children with low birth weight did not experience academic deficits, raising questions about early warning signs for intervention.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNeuropsychology·DateJun 10, 2013

The dance of the atoms

Scientists at the Vienna University of Technology have observed and explained the dance of atoms on iron-oxide surfaces. They found that carbon monoxide is the partner responsible for rapid motion, which leads to clustering and reduces the effectiveness of catalysts. A hydroxyl coating of the surface can suppress this effect.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 10, 2013

NASA animation sees Post-Tropical Storm Andrea speed away

Post-Tropical cyclone Andrea sped away from the Maine coast, passing through Atlantic Canada before entering the Northern Atlantic. The storm brought tropical-strength winds and precipitation to areas like Portland, Maine, with 0.99 inch of rain recorded.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 10, 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.

JCI early table of contents for June 10, 2013

Researchers found that HDAC3 is essential for DNA replication in hematopoietic progenitor cells and plays a critical role in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis by binding to the cellular protein FCγRIIb, which activates cell stress and death pathways. The study also identified a link between FCγRIIb and memory impairment in AD patients.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 10, 2013

Molecular imaging improves care for children with brain cancer

A new molecular imaging technique, F-18 FET, has been shown to be highly effective in detecting and differentiating brain lesions in children, with an accuracy rate of 94%. This study improves the clinical management of pediatric brain cancer patients by providing more accurate information about tumor progression and treatment.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 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.

Molecular imaging finds hurdle for smokers' vaccine

A new study on an anti-nicotine vaccination found mixed results, with some patients experiencing a decrease in brain nicotine accumulation but others showing an increase. The study used PET imaging to test the vaccine's effectiveness, revealing that high-affinity antibodies were associated with decreased brain nicotine accumulation.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

CT scans -- with radiation and cancer risk -- rose in children

A new study found that CT scan use increased by 15 years in children at nonprofit health care delivery systems, exposing them to higher cancer risk. Strategies like Image Gently aim to reduce this risk by lowering radiation doses and eliminating unnecessary scans.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJun 10, 2013

Weapons testing data determines brain makes new neurons into adulthood

Researchers have found that a small portion of the human brain involved in memory makes new neurons well into adulthood, according to data from nuclear weapons testing of the 1950s and '60s. The study supports the importance of investigating the therapeutic potential of adult neurogenesis for age-related cognitive disorders.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalCell·DateJun 10, 2013

Simple theory may explain mysterious dark matter

Researchers propose that most of the universe's dark matter could be made up of particles with a donut-shaped electromagnetic field called an anapole. This unique property makes it difficult to detect, but also allows for specific predictions about its behavior in vast detectors.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateJun 10, 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.

Quality-of-life issues need to be addressed for CML patients, Moffitt researchers say

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center found that chronic myeloid leukemia patients taking tyrosine kinase inhibitors experience distressing side effects such as depression, fatigue, nausea, and changes in appearance. These issues can significantly impact patients' quality of life for the rest of their treatment period.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateJun 10, 2013

Substances from African medicinal plants could help stop tumor growth

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have found that substances derived from African medicinal plants can kill off tumor cells resistant to multiple drugs. Four naturally occurring benzophenones were shown to prevent cancer cell proliferation, including multi-drug resistant strains.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalPhytomedicine·DateJun 10, 2013

Discovery may lead to new treatments for jaundice

Researchers at the University of Guelph have discovered a liver enzyme that protects cells from bilirubin damage, paving the way for new treatments for jaundice. The enzyme helps remove bilirubin and prevent liver cell death, offering hope for alternative therapies.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalToxicology and Applied Pharmacology·DateJun 10, 2013

Plunging fish numbers linked to dam releases

A Griffith University study found that current water releases limit fish reproduction and impact freshwater biodiversity. Restoring natural low flow periods is critical to produce food for dependent fish species.

SourceGriffith University·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

Genetic research clarifies link between hypertension and vitamin D deficiency

A large-scale genetic study found a significant link between high vitamin D levels and reduced blood pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension. The researchers used genetic variants as proxy markers for vitamin D status to test for causality, providing strong evidence for the potential prevention of cardiovascular disease through vit...

SourceEuropean Society of Human Genetics·DateJun 10, 2013

Reputation can trump money

A study by Harvard researchers shows that making participation observable can significantly increase sign-ups for a California blackout prevention program, with a three-fold increase compared to using cash incentives alone. Observability puts people's reputation at stake, encouraging those who might not otherwise sign up to do so.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Screening at-risk adolescents for celiac disease proves cost-effective

A new study found that screening only high-risk patients for celiac disease is more cost-effective than universal screening, preventing bone loss and fractures in patients with undiagnosed or subclinical disease. The strategy also reduces unnecessary endoscopic evaluations of healthy individuals.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJun 10, 2013

When will my computer understand me?

Researchers are working on creating a model that can accurately distinguish word meanings using a weighted map of relationships created from hundreds of thousands of documents. This approach utilizes supercomputers and Hadoop to process large amounts of text data, enabling the development of more effective language technologies.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateJun 10, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Mysterious monument found beneath the Sea of Galilee

Researchers found a massive cone-shaped structure made of basalt stones weighing an estimated 60,000 tons, dating back to the early Bronze Age. The site is believed to be connected to ancient city of Beit Yerah and may provide insights into geological history.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalThe International Journal of Nautical Archaeology·DateJun 10, 2013

SPECT/MR molecular imaging system makes its debut

The new SPECT/MR system offers exceptional molecular imaging capabilities, reducing patient exposure to ionizing radiation and offering customized multifunctional imaging. It has the potential to diversify options for clinicians and biomedical investigators, with possible human trials in the near future.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

Dose analysis predicts non-Hodgkin lymphoma survival

A new method of dose calculation estimates radiation absorbed dose in radioimmunotherapy, predicting progression-free survival and enabling personalized treatment. Patients receiving higher doses (>200 centigray) had significantly longer progression-free survival.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 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.

Treatment of mental illness lowers arrest rates, saves money

Outpatient treatment significantly reduces arrest rates for people with mental health problems, saving the government $95,000 per individual. Providing mental health care not only benefits individuals but also society as a whole.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateJun 10, 2013

Land use changes, housing demographics shift in Washington State

A recent report by USDA Forest Service reveals a doubling of houses in dispersed rural settings and development on nonfederal resource lands over the past 30 years. The analysis showed that most new development was close to existing areas, with increases in housing similar across eastern and western Washington.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·DateJun 10, 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.

How does inbreeding avoidance evolve in plants?

Researchers at McGill University found that Leavenworthia plants regained self-pollen recognition function by taking over two other genes. This study suggests that the loss of complex traits may not always be irreversible in plants.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 10, 2013

Metabolic PET imaging provides earlier warning of coronary disease

Researchers found that metabolic PET imaging detected coronary disease at an early stage, with a sensitivity of 96%, compared to 56% for MPI. This technique could potentially be used for initial CAD screening to help doctors better determine a patient's cardiac risk and manage care.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

Brain circuits link obsessive-compulsive behavior and obesity

Researchers found that brain circuits controlling obsessive-compulsive behavior are intertwined with those controlling food intake and body weight. The study suggests that minor disruptions in this system may lead to disorders like anorexia nervosa or OCD, as well as obesity, where individuals overconsume high-fat foods.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 11, 2013, issue

The US Preventive Services Task Force found primary care interventions for preventing child maltreatment to be ineffective due to limited evidence. In contrast, diabetes patients on Medicare are two to three times more likely to use brand-name drugs than VA patients, at an added annual cost of $1 billion.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

To germinate, or not to germinate, that is the question…

Researchers at the University of York have identified a key regulator gene called SPATULA that controls the expression of five other genes affecting seed germination. The study, using the model plant Arabidopsis, reveals how different varieties respond to environmental stimuli, which could lead to the development of better quality seed...

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Survivors of intimate partner violence not getting adequate mental health services

A recent study found that survivors of intimate partner violence are not receiving adequate mental health services, with most experiencing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and/or depression. Despite having access to services, social stigmas, shame, and lack of information prevent many from seeking help.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalSocial Work in Mental Health·DateJun 10, 2013

Transplant patient outcomes after trauma better than expected

The study analyzed patients with prior organ transplants and found that their outcomes after traumatic injury are not worse than those of non-transplanted patients. Transplanted organs were rarely injured in traumatic events, and immunosuppression may have played a role in protecting organs from inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateJun 10, 2013

Nearly a fifth of designated drivers are impaired

A recent study found that approximately 40% of designated drivers have consumed alcohol, with many having blood alcohol levels that impair their driving skills. The researchers emphasize the importance of complete abstinence as a designated driver to ensure safety on the road.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

Ames Laboratory scientists discover new family of quasicrystals

Researchers found a unique arrangement of spin glass behavior in these new quasicrystals, which is distinct from the magnetic ordering seen in crystalline structures. The discovery provides insight into magnetism in complex environments and opens up new avenues for studying rare-earth quasicrystals.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 10, 2013

World's first large(wafer)-scale production of III-V semiconductor nanowire

Researchers at UNIST demonstrated a novel method for epitaxially synthesizing uniform and homogeneous III-V semiconductor nanowires on Si wafers. The high quality of the nanowires was achieved without using metal catalysts, opening up new possibilities for opto-electronic devices.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 10, 2013

Pre-Alzheimer's: Metabolic disorder found in cognitively normal patients

Researchers found hypometabolism in brain regions associated with Alzheimer's disease, even in cognitively normal subjects with amyloid plaque. This association suggests a potential early indicator of Alzheimer's disease before dementia sets in.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

The secret life of knots

Scientists have discovered that knots tend to form at the ends of polymers, where they are frequent yet ephemeral. Once formed, knots move along the chain in a seemingly casual manner before disappearing or forming slip-knots/pseudo-knots at the center.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalMacromolecules·DateJun 10, 2013

Women with severe morning sickness who take antihistamines more likely to experience bad outcomes

A UCLA study found that women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) who take antihistamines are more likely to experience bad outcomes, including low birth weight babies and premature births. The study also showed that these medications are not effective in treating HG symptoms

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology·DateJun 10, 2013

UCI scientists size up universe's most lightweight dwarf galaxy

Researchers have discovered a tiny dwarf galaxy, Segue 2, with only 1,000 stars, offering insights into the formation of iron and other elements crucial for human life. The galaxy's size and weight are its most striking features, challenging astronomers' understanding of structure formation in the universe.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateJun 10, 2013

Suicide risk factors mapped

A landmark study of the Swedish population found depression (32-fold risk for suicide), anxiety (15-fold risk), COPD (3.05-fold risk) and poor social networks to be significant risk factors. The study also showed that unemployment was a stronger social risk factor among women, while being single was a stronger risk factor among men.

SourceLund University·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJun 10, 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.

The diabetes 'breathalyzer'

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a sensor technology that can detect and monitor diabetes through breath analysis alone. The sensor uses a combination of titanium dioxide and carbon nanotubes to measure acetone vapors in breath, offering a potential alternative to current blood glucose monitoring methods.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 10, 2013

Do antidepressants impair the ability to extinguish fear?

A new study suggests that long-term antidepressant treatment impairs fear extinction learning in rats, which may disrupt the effectiveness of exposure therapy. The authors propose a mechanism involving decreased NMDA receptor subunits in the amygdala.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJun 10, 2013

Partial livers from deceased donors saving the lives of infants

Researchers found that partial livers from deceased adult and teen donors have become less risky for infants, saving their lives. The study's findings suggest that the use of partial grafts from deceased donors has increased significantly over time, accounting for up to 32% of liver transplants in children.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateJun 10, 2013
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 path to lower-risk painkillers

Researchers have identified a novel approach to moderate and severe pain therapy that could lead to lower dosage painkillers. The compounds bind to a separate site on the opioid receptor, potentially working with the body's own natural painkillers to manage pain.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Eve Marder to receive the $500,000 Gruber Neuroscience Prize

Eve Marder's groundbreaking discoveries have fundamentally changed our understanding of how neural circuits operate and produce behavior. Her research on the stomatogastric ganglion has broad implications for studying neurological diseases like schizophrenia, depression, and chronic pain.

SourceYale University·DateJun 10, 2013

Cost-effective: Universal HIV testing in India

A new study suggests that universal HIV testing in India could be a cost-effective strategy to save millions of lives. The study found that testing every five years would be the most cost-effective option, with a price tag of $1,900 per year of life saved in the general population and $1,300 per YLS among high-risk groups.

SourceBrown University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

Bridge species drive tropical engine of biodiversity

New research confirms the 'out of the tropics' model for tropical biodiversity, where most evolutionary lineages started in the tropics and expanded outward. Bridge species, which straddle the boundary between tropics and temperate regions, play a crucial role in this process.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Heart: Cardiac PET/MR measures up to PET/CT

A comparative heart imaging study found that PET/MR measures up to PET/CT in cardiac applications, with comparable results for heart muscle viability assessment. The technology has implications for future studies into ischemic cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia development after cardiac arrest.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013
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.

High rate of ventilator-associated pneumonia found in small community hospitals

A new study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology reveals that small community hospitals experience a higher rate of ventilator-associated pneumonia than larger hospitals. The study found that patients on ventilators had long hospital stays and high mortality rates, suggesting that these under-resourced settings may ...

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateJun 10, 2013

Pollinators easily enhanced by flowering agri-environment schemes

A meta-analysis of 71 studies found that agri-environment schemes, such as sowing wild-flowers and organic farming, enhance the diversity and abundance of wild bees, hoverflies, and butterflies. The results suggest that increasing flower abundance in field margins and roadsides can boost pollinator populations, especially common species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalEcology Letters·DateJun 10, 2013

Designated drivers don't always abstain, UF study finds

A University of Florida study found that 35% of designated drivers had consumed alcohol and had blood-alcohol levels high enough to impair their driving. The researchers also discovered that most designated drivers were not always chosen by those who had previously driven sober, which is a concerning trend.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 10, 2013

Amount of dust blown across the West is increasing, says CU-Boulder study

A new CU-Boulder study reveals a significant increase in dust emissions across the Western United States over the past 17 years. The research found that dust erosion is linked to an increase in calcium deposition in precipitation, with major increases observed in Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAeolian Research·DateJun 10, 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.

Breast cancer: PET and MR predict chemotherapy's ability to prolong life

Researchers used parallel PET/MR imaging to map chemotherapy distribution before surgery, improving risk stratification and patient management. This study suggests simultaneous PET/MR imaging can benefit patients by predicting cancer recurrence and avoiding unnecessary chemotherapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

New study finds females play active, pivotal role in postcopulatory processes

A new study by Syracuse University researchers found that female Drosophila melanogaster flies actively influence sperm competition, allowing them to choose between different male sperm for fertilization. This discovery has major implications for the study of sexual selection and coevolution in animals.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Uni Basel researchers discover master regulator in cancer metastasis

Researchers at Uni Basel have discovered Sox4 as a key player in cancer metastasis, triggering the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. The study found that Sox4 promotes the expression of genes involved in EMT and metastasis, leading to changes in gene expression and cell behavior.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCancer Cell·DateJun 10, 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.

PET/MR effective for imaging recurrent prostate cancer

A new hybrid molecular imaging system combines positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance to detect recurrent prostate cancer. The study reveals that PET/MR finds more areas of metastases than PET/CT, making it a viable alternative for restaging patients with metastatic prostate cancer.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

2-D electronics take a step forward

Researchers at Rice University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have advanced on the goal of two-dimensional electronics by controlling the growth of uniform atomic layers of molybdenum disulfide. The material is a semiconductor, one of three needed to make functioning 2-D electronic components.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 10, 2013

Testing artificial photosynthesis

Researchers have developed a fully integrated microfluidic test-bed to evaluate and optimize solar-driven electrochemical energy conversion systems. The system has been used to study schemes for photovoltaic electrolysis of water and can be adapted to study artificial photosynthesis and fuel cell technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateJun 10, 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.

Epigenetic factor likely plays a key role in fueling most common childhood cancer

A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that epigenetic changes, such as cytosine methylation, are unique to each child with ALL and may be as important as genetic alterations in causing the disease. The research suggests that epigenetic targeted therapies could be developed for patients with ALL.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 10, 2013

Medicare beneficiaries substantially more likely to use brand-name drugs than VA patients

A nationwide study found Medicare beneficiaries are two to three times more likely to use brand-name drugs for diabetes and other conditions compared to VA patients. This difference in prescribing habits resulted in an estimated $1.4 billion savings in Medicare Part D spending if generic use matched the VA's approach.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

DNA-altering enzyme is essential for blood cell development

The study reveals HDAC3 plays a key role in regulating gene expression, chromatin structure, and genome stability. Disruption of HDAC3 expression leads to impaired hematopoiesis, highlighting its importance in stem cell functions and bone marrow failure syndromes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 10, 2013

How Archaea might find their food

A German-American research team identified a sensor protein called MsmS in the microorganism Methanosarcina acetivorans. MsmS may serve as a 'food sensor' to detect energy sources, similar to bacteria but with potential differences in signal transduction systems.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 10, 2013

Catching individual molecules in a million with optical antennas inside nano-boxes

Researchers design and fabricate a tiny optical device called an 'antenna-in-box' that can detect and sense individual biomolecules at concentrations similar to those found in the cellular context. The device allows for enhanced single-molecule analysis and has potential applications in early disease diagnosis and molecular visualization.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 10, 2013

Hairpin turn: Micro-RNA plays role in wood formation

Scientists at NC State University have discovered the first example of a micro-RNA controlling lignin biosynthesis, which gives wood its strength. The research found that reducing lignin content by over 20% can increase the efficiency of paper and biofuels production.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2013

Dual agent scan differentiates diabetic foot disorders

Researchers developed a new dual agent scan that can differentiate between diabetic foot infection and a non-infectious complication in nerve-damaged joints. The technique combines agents targeting bone cell activity and immune response, allowing doctors to accurately diagnose and rule out unnecessary scans.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 10, 2013

7 new GSA Bulletin articles posted online ahead of print

Researchers analyzed newly discovered ice-age deposits from Garwood Valley to understand the rise and collapse of Antarctic ice sheets. They also studied the geological history of granite emplacement and glacial evolution in Death Valley, California.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalACM SIGSAM Bulletin·DateJun 10, 2013