Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive May 2013 - Page 26


Page 26 of 30

Bats use blood to reshape tongue for feeding

Researchers discovered that nectar-feeding bats use blood flow to erect tiny hair-like structures on their tongues, allowing them to gather nectar from flowers. This unique technology enables the bats to slurp up nectar quickly and efficiently.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2013

Reversal of the black widow myth

Researchers found that male spiders of the Micaria sociabilis species are more likely to consume female spiders than be consumed by them. This behavior is linked to male size and age, suggesting a possible type of male mate choice.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMay 6, 2013

Do-it-yourself invisibility with 3-D printing

Using 3D printing, researchers have created a simple and inexpensive way to produce plastic cloaks that can deflect microwave beams, making them appear invisible. The technique involves designing algorithms to create holes in the cloak, which allows it to suppress scattering from objects, effectively making them invisible.

SourceDuke University·JournalOptics Letters·DateMay 6, 2013

Competing antibodies may have limited the protection achieved in HIV vaccine trial in Thailand

Researchers analyzed data from the RV144 HIV vaccine trial, which showed a 31% protection rate. They found that specific antibodies may interfere with the protective effects of other antibodies, reducing the vaccine's efficacy. This discovery can inform future vaccine development strategies to overcome these limitations.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2013

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for May 7, 2013

Researchers found that ambrisentan treatment worsened IPF progression and hospitalization rates. Assessing acute changes in Lung Allocation Score can inform organ wait-list strategies to reduce post-transplant mortality. Inexpensive behavioral interventions helped TB patients in poor countries quit smoking, offering a basis for effecti...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 6, 2013

Anti-depressant link to Clostridium difficile infection

A recent study has found a significant link between certain antidepressants and an increased risk of Clostridium difficile infection. People with major depression were 36% more likely to develop CDI, while the use of mirtazapine and fluoxetine doubled the risk. Researchers stress that the exact cause of this association is unknown.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMay 6, 2013

Saving money on medical costs

A slowdown in healthcare spending growth could result in Americans saving up to $770 billion on Medicare costs over the next decade. This decrease is attributed to a decline in new drug development and increased efficiency in the healthcare system.

SourceHarvard University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 6, 2013

Managing fibromyalgia: A guide for physicians

Fibromyalgia can be diagnosed by relying on the art of medicine, as physical findings or laboratory tests are often absent. Primary care physicians are best positioned to manage this condition due to its prevalence rate, with a combination of nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapies being the most appropriate management strategy.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 6, 2013

Summer sees a spike in chemical injuries in kids

A new study found that hydrocarbon exposure incidents increased significantly during summer months, with most cases occurring in boys between one to two years old. The study also highlights the importance of proper storage and supervision to prevent these types of injuries.

SourceMediaSource·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMay 6, 2013

Millions pass up free health subsidy

A new study from Harvard Medical School reveals that millions of eligible seniors are turning down free prescription drug coverage due to impaired cognitive abilities. The researchers suggest that the design of the program needs to be changed to make it easier for low-income adults to enroll and access the benefit.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 6, 2013

Stanford researchers develop new technique to track cell interactions in living bodies

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine developed a new technique to visualize cell interactions in living mice, pinpointing metastatic cancer cells' locations after breaking off from initial tumor sites. The method uses light-emitting proteins and has potential applications in studying various cell interactions.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2013

Microwave oven cooks up solar cell material

Researchers used a microwave oven to produce a nanocrystal semiconductor for more efficient photovoltaic solar cells and LED lights, biological sensors, and systems to convert waste heat to electricity. The method produces the material quickly and uses less toxic metals than other semiconductors.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Crystal Growth·DateMay 5, 2013

More hurricanes for Hawaii?

A new study projects a significant increase in tropical cyclones affecting Hawaii, with conditions becoming more favorable for hurricane formation due to global warming. The study suggests that despite potential decreases in tropical cyclones globally, Hawaii may experience a rise in near-shore storms.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii ‑ SOEST·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 5, 2013