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Science News Archive May 2013 - Page 16


Page 16 of 30

Friction in the nano-world

Researchers at Technical University of Munich discover 'desorption stick', a new type of friction that occurs when polymer molecules interact with surfaces. This mechanism depends on the chemical nature of the surface and solvent, not on movement speed or adhesive strength.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 15, 2013

Squishy hydrogels may be the ticket for studying biological effects of nanoparticles

Researchers at NIST create three-dimensional scaffolds made with cells and hydrogels to evaluate the biological effects of nanoparticles. The hydrogel-based scaffolds provide a more realistic environment than current laboratory tests, allowing for longer-term studies and better representation of normal exposure levels.

The developmental genetics of space and time

Researchers identified a case of spatial and temporal conflict in regulating the ventral neurons defective gene, which must be precisely regulated for proper nervous system specification. The study shows that an additional input from a complementary gradient of the Dpp morphogen solves conflicting temporal and spatial responses.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateMay 15, 2013

Tissue damage from metal-on-metal hip implants appears before pain symptoms appear

A new study found that metal-on-metal hip implants can cause inflammation of the joint lining (synovitis) in asymptomatic patients, with MRI scans identifying this inflammation. The study suggests that symptoms alone are insufficient to determine an implant's health and recommends using imaging, such as MRI, to predict potential damage.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMay 15, 2013

Despite new recommendations, women in 40s continue to get routine mammograms at same rate

Despite new recommendations, women in their 40s continue to get routine breast cancer screenings at the same rate as before, with insurance coverage being a key reason for persistence. The study's findings highlight the ongoing challenges in changing behavior and the influence of societal factors on individual decisions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2013

Hot on the TRAIL of graft vs. host disease

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have discovered that expression of TRAIL in transplanted hematopoietic stem cells is critical for an effective anti-tumor response. This finding has led to the development of new therapeutic strategies to suppress graft-versus-host disease while maintaining anti-tumor activity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2013

Repeat brain injury raises soldiers' suicide risk

A survey of 161 military personnel found that those with multiple head injuries face a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The study's lead author says that knowing this association can provide valuable information for professionals treating wounded combat servicemen and women to help manage the risk of suicide.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 2013

Study finds disagreement on the role of primary care nurse practitioners

A survey of nearly 1,000 primary care clinicians reveals significant disagreements between physicians and nurse practitioners on the scope of nurse practitioner responsibilities, including leadership roles, reimbursement levels, and service provision. The study highlights the need for further analysis of the economic implications and c...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 15, 2013

New blood test finds allergies before implant surgery

Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect allergies to nickel, cobalt, and bone cement, allowing patients to avoid miserable reactions and expensive revisions. The new test is expected to be widely used in the next couple of years, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 15, 2013

Catching graphene butterflies

The discovery reveals a fundamental interest in understanding the electronic properties of graphene and its potential applications. The researchers have created multiple clones of Dirac fermions, mimicking massless relativistic particles, and produced an intricate pattern known as the Hofstadter butterfly.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2013