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Science News for June 25, 2013


NREL reports 31.1 percent efficiency for III-V solar cell

Researchers at NREL developed a tandem cell with a gallium indium phosphide cell atop a gallium arsenide cell, achieving the new record efficiency of 31.1%. This improvement enhances photon recycling and luminescent coupling in the lower bandgap junction.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJun 25, 2013

Study shows heart failure survivors at greater risk for cancer

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that heart failure patients are more likely to develop cancer, with a significant increase in mortality rates. The study suggests that side effects of cardiovascular treatments and inflammation may be contributing factors.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 25, 2013

How men and women cooperate

A new study published in Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that during high mutual cooperation, men tend to match their partner's emotions, while women experience an 'antiphase' pattern. Women may serve as emotional regulators during cooperation, potentially impacting relationship outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateJun 25, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Memory improves for older adults using computerized brain-fitness program

A study by UCLA researchers found that older adults who used the Dakim BrainFitness program demonstrated significant improvements in both immediate and delayed memory skills, as well as language abilities. The findings suggest that computerized brain training can be an effective way to improve cognitive skills in this age group.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJun 25, 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.

Researchers strike gold with nanotech vaccine

Researchers have developed a novel vaccination method using gold nanoparticles that can deliver specific proteins to the body's immune cells. The technique mimics viruses and stimulates an immune response, offering significant safety advantages.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateJun 25, 2013

Patient factors play key role in emergency department imaging

A new study found that patient and visit factors, such as prior visits, referral sources and clinical reasons, are the primary predictors of imaging use in emergency departments. Physician-related factors had a minimal impact on imaging utilization.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 25, 2013

A deep brain disorder

A new study from SDSU found that autism affects a broad range of sensory and motor systems, not just social abilities. The research suggests that the diagnostic criteria for autism may fail to consider the full spectrum of problems children with autism experience.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalBrain·DateJun 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.

Involving community group in depression care improves coping among low-income patients, study finds

A new study finds that involving community groups in depression care improves mental health outcomes among low-income patients. The community engagement approach, which included collaborative planning with diverse services programs, resulted in increased physical activity, lower hospitalizations, and improved stability in daily life.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 25, 2013

PET-CT improves care of limited-stage small-cell lung cancer patients

Researchers found that PET-CT improved staging accuracy and intrathoracic disease identification in limited-stage small-cell lung cancer patients. This led to an improvement in overall survival rates compared to those not staged with PET-CT.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 25, 2013

'Active surveillance' may miss aggressive prostate cancers in black men

A Johns Hopkins study of over 1,800 men aged 52-62 suggests that African-Americans with very-low-risk prostate cancers are more likely to have aggressive disease. The study found a higher rate of Gleason score upgrading and organ-confined cancers among black men, highlighting the need for race-specific surveillance entry criteria.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 25, 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.

Continued research needed on treatment for women with lung cancer who are never smokers

A recent study found that lung cancer in women who have never smoked is more frequently associated with EGFR mutations and estrogen receptor (ER) overexpression. The researchers observed a higher percentage of these genetic abnormalities in patients who had not previously smoked, suggesting potential new treatment targets for this group.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 25, 2013

Researchers use video game tech to steer roaches on autopilot

Researchers at NC State University are using video game technology to remotely control cockroaches on autopilot. They use Microsoft's Kinect system to track the insects' progress and steer them along a digitally plotted path. This technology has potential for mapping dynamic environments, such as collapsed buildings, with rescue teams.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateJun 25, 2013

UT Arlington engineer to design prototype that predicts flash flooding

D.J. Seo's research will provide timely and location-specific information for dispatching emergency personnel in flash-flooding situations, reducing response times by up to 30 minutes. The prototype will also examine the impact of development on rainfall-runoff response and improve water conservation programs in North Texas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJun 25, 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.

Astronomers spy on galaxies in the raw

Researchers used CSIRO's Australia Telescope Compact Array to study distant star-forming clumps and discovered massive amounts of molecular hydrogen gas, a key fuel for star formation. The telescope's upgraded bandwidth and sensitivity enabled the detection of carbon monoxide, allowing scientists to estimate galaxy star-formation rates.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateJun 25, 2013

Death rates from heart disease continue to decline in most of the EU

Death rates from heart disease have decreased in most EU countries since the early 1980s, but some nations are experiencing a slowdown in progress due to rising obesity and diabetes rates. The study found that cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in Europe, with significant variation between individual countries.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 25, 2013

Cutlery: Do size, weight, shape and color matter?

Researchers found that cutlery can alter how we experience food, with weight and color affecting perceived density, saltiness, and sweetness. The study suggests that subtly changing eating implements and tableware can impact our enjoyment of food.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFlavour·DateJun 25, 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.

Cola and honey: Exploring food riddles in rhythm disturbances

A study by the European Society of Cardiology found that excessive cola consumption can cause unusual syncope and symptoms of arrhythmia due to high fructose corn syrup content and caffeine effects. Consuming honey made from Rhododendron pollen may also lead to similar issues.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJun 25, 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.

Kids' reading success boosted by long-term individualized instruction

A three-year longitudinal study found that students receiving consistent individualized instruction from first to third grade showed the strongest reading skills. This led to a significant improvement in reading proficiency among these students compared to those without such instruction.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 25, 2013

Delivering the best care to the right patient at the right time

Research by Northwestern Medicine cardiologist Jeffrey Goldberger combines evidence-based guidelines with tailored treatment for patients, reducing over-treatment and under-treatment. By analyzing clinical data and individual characteristics, physicians can make more precise decisions, leading to better patient care.

SourceNorthwestern Memorial HealthCare·JournalJAMA·DateJun 25, 2013

Immunohistochemistry effectively detects ALK rearrangement

Researchers evaluate immunohistochemistry for detecting ALK rearrangement in lung adenocarcinoma, finding it a reliable and cost-effective method. The study suggests that IHC can effectively detect ALK rearrangement and identify suitable candidates for targeted therapy.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateJun 25, 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.

Blind(fold)ed by science: Study shows the strategy humans use to chase objects

Researchers found that people who are blindfolded employ the same strategy to intercept a running ball carrier as people who can see, suggesting multiple areas of the brain cooperate to accomplish the task. The constant target-heading angle strategy allows for effective capture in various situations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateJun 25, 2013

Laser guided codes advance single pixel terahertz imaging

Researchers developed a single-pixel imaging technique using coded apertures to quickly manipulate THz waves, producing high-fidelity images in seconds. The technique has the potential to revolutionize areas like chemical fingerprinting, security imaging, and real-time skin cancer detection.

SourceBoston College·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 25, 2013

USC research IDs potential treatment for deadly, HIV-related blood cancer

Researchers at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered a promising new way to treat primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), a rare and aggressive blood cancer often found in people with HIV. BRD4 inhibitors show effectiveness against PEL, which has a poor prognosis, offering hope for new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalOncogene·DateJun 25, 2013

Problem-solving governs how we process sensory stimuli

Researchers at the University of Zurich found that brain areas communicate differently based on the task to be solved, with specific neurons activated for distinct tasks, and this can help develop therapies for impaired cognitive abilities in patients with Alzheimer's disease, Autism, and Schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature·DateJun 25, 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.

Chemist receives high honor from American Society for Mass Spectrometry

Yinsheng Wang, a UC Riverside professor of chemistry, has received the prestigious Biemann Medal for his significant contributions to mass spectrometry. The award recognizes his work on DNA damage and anti-tumor drugs, highlighting the importance of mass spectrometry in understanding genetic information.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJun 25, 2013

NREL drives toward the future with fuel cell EVs

NREL is enhancing its research capabilities through a 2-year loan of four Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicles from Toyota. The vehicles will help investigate hydrogen fueling infrastructure, renewable hydrogen production, and vehicle performance. Testing includes observing durability and reliability.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateJun 25, 2013

The buffer stops here

Researchers at NYU-Poly developed streamloading, a technique that splits videos into two layers for efficient streaming. By pre-downloading the enhancement layer, users can improve video quality while reducing data usage and delays.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·DateJun 25, 2013

GAP-AF study helps to define optimal approach to ablation

The GAP-AF study found that complete ablation with complete linear lesions around pulmonary veins was more effective than incomplete lesions in preventing AF recurrence. This approach resulted in higher success rates and longer periods of sinus rhythm compared to incomplete procedures.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJun 25, 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.

First-ever therapeutic offers hope for improving blood transfusions

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed a therapeutic approach to restore nitric oxide levels in donated blood, improving tissue oxygen delivery and kidney function. The treatment, called renitrosylation therapy, may hold great promise for millions of patients who receive regular blood transfusions.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2013

Study finds dramatic increase in hospitalization of US children with inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers found a 65% increase in IBD hospital discharges from 2000 to 2009, with specific increases seen in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The study suggests an unclear reason behind the trend, with potential contributors including increased disease severity and co-existing conditions.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·DateJun 25, 2013

High-octane bacteria could ease pain at the pump

Scientists at the Wyss Institute have engineered E. coli bacteria to mass-produce medium-chain fatty acids, which can be converted into an energy-packed liquid fuel for internal-combustion engines. This breakthrough could lead to a sustainable replacement for gasoline in cars and other vehicles.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 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.

Hunger affects decision making and perception of risk

A study published by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft found that hunger modifies brain pathways and behavior, causing hungry individuals to take more risks. In fruit flies, a specific nerve cell transports carbon dioxide information to the mushroom body, triggering flight responses in hungry but not fed animals.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 25, 2013

Policy issues plague hydropower as wind power backup

Researchers found that hydropower could accommodate unexpected variations in wind energy, but only if operating guidelines were relaxed over a two-week period. Changing these guidelines is complex and may require congressional action, according to Penn State researchers.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 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.

Averting worse economic collapses

A new study published in EPJ B suggests that specific parameters can help avert economic collapses. By optimizing macro-economic parameters, economists can move an economy around a tipping point, thus averting disaster.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJun 25, 2013

Spatial training boosts math skills

A new study from Michigan State University found that spatial training significantly improves addition and subtraction scores in children aged 6-8. The researchers also discovered a causal connection between spatial reasoning and math performance.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Cognition and Development·DateJun 25, 2013

Exercise benefits patients with type 2 diabetes

A new study published in Radiology found that moderate-intensity exercise significantly decreases fat volume in the abdomen, liver, and around the heart in patients with type 2 diabetes. The results suggest that exercise can reduce cardiovascular risk by targeting specific fat deposits.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateJun 25, 2013

New theory of emotions

According to Newen and Barlassina's integrative embodiment theory of emotions, feelings of bodily processes are combined with cognitive contents to form a separate mental state. This model addresses the limitations of earlier theories, such as James-Lange and cognitive theories, which neglect the role of bodily states in emotion.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPhilosophy and Phenomenological Research·DateJun 25, 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.

Clearing up confusion on future of Colorado River flows

Scientific studies estimate Colorado River flow declines of 6-45% by 2050, varying due to climate models and spatial resolution. The new study provides a framework for comparison, identifying key factors affecting predictions.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateJun 25, 2013

Vietnam vets with PTSD more than twice as likely to have heart disease

A long-term study measuring the association between PTSD and heart disease found that male twin Vietnam veterans with PTSD were almost twice as likely to develop heart disease, even after accounting for lifestyle factors. The study suggests a link between PTSD and cardiovascular health.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 25, 2013

Investigators from Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine to present research data at American Diabetes Association meeting

Studies explore the benefits of behavioral interventions for managing diabetes, as well as the impact of insulin pump therapy and fetal outcomes in diabetic women. Researchers from Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine present their findings on these topics at the American Diabetes Association meeting.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·DateJun 25, 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.

Device aims to avert repeated breast cancer surgeries

A team of Johns Hopkins graduate students has designed a device to inspect breast tissue in real-time, reducing the need for follow-up surgeries. The device applies an adhesive film to the tissue, preventing damage and allowing pathologists to quickly review samples within 20 minutes.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 25, 2013

Feeling stressed?

Researchers at Concordia University have found that oxytocin can increase a person's trust in others following social rejection. In a double-blind experiment, participants who received oxytocin prior to being subjected to social rejection reported greater trust in other people compared to those who received a placebo.

SourceConcordia University·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJun 25, 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.

Fishing for chips

A new study published in The Veterinary Journal found that high-quality microchip scanners can accurately read horse transponders, contradicting the claim that identification failure rates are too high. Researchers tested over 400 horses and found that even low-end scanners performed better than traditional branding methods.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateJun 25, 2013

More women pick computer science if media nix outdated 'nerd' stereotype

Researchers found that women who had taken at least one computer science class were less likely to mention stereotypical characteristics, while men's descriptions remained unchanged. The studies also showed that exposing students to accurate portrayals of computer scientists increased interest in the field among women.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalSex Roles·DateJun 25, 2013

Telecoupling pulls pieces of sustainability puzzle together

A new framework, telecoupling, describes how distance is shrinking and connections are strengthening between nature and humans. It shows how environmental and socioeconomic actions lead to reactions and feedbacks that reverberate globally, affecting global sustainability.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcology and Society·DateJun 25, 2013

Astronomers find 3 'super-Earths' in nearby star's habitable zone

An international team of astronomers has detected six to seven planets around the nearby star GJ667C, including three 'super-Earths' in its habitable zone. This is the first time that so many super-Earths have been found in a single system. The discovery provides insight into the possibility of life on these potentially rocky planets.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateJun 25, 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.

Research team discovers new kind of signalling mechanism in plant cells

A research team at Ruhr-University Bochum has identified a new type of signalling mechanism in plant cells, involving the glutamate-like receptor AtGLR1.4. The receptor responds to multiple amino acids, including methionine, which is an essential nutrient for humans but can be produced by plants.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScience Signaling·DateJun 25, 2013