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Science News for June 6, 2014


Clinical review published in JAMA

A clinical review published in JAMA explores the diagnosis and management of mixed urinary incontinence in women, a condition affecting 20-36% of women. High-quality evidence supports treating stress and urge urinary incontinences with surgery and medications respectively.

SourceCare New England·JournalJAMA·DateJun 6, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Magnetic moment of the proton measured with unprecedented precision

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz successfully measured the magnetic moment of a proton for the first time with unprecedented precision. The measurement has far exceeded previous attempts and will contribute to a better understanding of the matter/antimatter asymmetry in our universe.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature·DateJun 6, 2014

Prostate cancer biomarkers identified in seminal fluid

A study published in Endocrine-Related Cancer has identified specific molecules in seminal fluid that can detect prostate cancer and predict its severity. The presence of these microRNAs, particularly miR-200b, shows promise as a prognostic tool for indicating treatment urgency and type.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateJun 6, 2014

Lower asthma risk is associated with microbes in infants' homes

A new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that infants exposed to a diverse range of bacterial species in house dust during the first year of life are less likely to develop asthma in early childhood. The study, led by UCSF researchers, suggests that immune responses may be shaped by exposures during...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 6, 2014

Scientists reveal details of calcium 'safety-valve' in cells

Researchers have identified a protein that regulates calcium levels in cells, which could be a promising strategy for fighting cancers. The study reveals how this protein serves as a molecular safety valve to maintain steady calcium levels.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2014

Three gene networks discovered in autism, may present treatment targets

Researchers have uncovered three gene networks in autism that could lead to new treatments for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia. The networks, which affect neurotransmitter signaling, may also provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying autism.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Brain traffic jams that can disappear in 30 seconds

Researchers discovered that certain blockages in fruit fly brains quickly resolve themselves, suggesting a distinction between benign and permanent blocks. This study could help scientists identify and treat neurodegenerative diseases by focusing on permanent blockages.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 6, 2014

Opening a wide window on the nano-world of surface catalysis

Researchers bridge the size gap to study kinetic behavior of Ag nanocatalysts using SERS, providing real-time reaction information. The stepped surface of etched nanoparticles mimics sub-5-nm environment, increasing active surface atoms' participation in catalysis.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Better tissue healing with disappearing hydrogels

A University of Rochester research team has created a technique that keeps stem cells in place, resulting in faster and better tissue regeneration. The key is encasing the stem cells in polymers that attract water and disappear when their work is done.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateJun 6, 2014

Exotic particle confirmed

Physicists confirm existence of exotic dibaryon made up of six quarks, a complex particle that could open door to new physical phenomena. The discovery was made using the WASA-at-COSY collaboration and has been published in Physical Review Letters.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Shatterproof screens that save smartphones

Researchers at the University of Akron have developed a shatterproof screen technology using a transparent electrode that is tough, flexible and cost-effective. The new film can withstand repeated scotch tape peeling and bending tests, offering a potential replacement for traditional touchscreen displays.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Early exposure to certain bacteria may protect toddlers from wheezing

A NIH-funded study found that early life exposure to specific combinations of allergens and bacteria protects against wheezing and allergic disease. The Urban Environment and Childhood Asthma (URECA) study revealed that cockroach, mouse, and cat exposure during the first year of life is associated with a lower risk of recurrent wheezing.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 6, 2014

Mitochondrial DNA of first Near Eastern farmers is sequenced for the first time

The study provides a new framework to interpret previous research on European Neolithic populations, suggesting that the expansion took place through pioneer seafaring colonization. Genetic affinities between the mitochondrial DNA of first Neolithic farmers and those of Catalan and German farmers support this hypothesis.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 6, 2014

Infection in malaria-transmitting mosquito discovered

Researchers have found evidence of an intercellular bacterial infection in natural populations of two species of Anopheles mosquitoes, a major vector of malaria. The Wolbachia infection has been shown to reduce the incidence of pathogen infections in mosquitoes and could be used to control malaria-transmitting mosquito populations.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Breakthrough study solves plant sex mystery

A team of biologists at the University of Leicester has discovered a pair of proteins called DAZ1 and DAZ2 that are essential for making twin sperm cells in plants. The study reveals how these proteins work together with a 'master switch' protein DUO1 to control a gene network that ensures a pair of fertile sperm is produced.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJun 6, 2014

NWO Spinoza Prizes 2014 announced

The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) has awarded the NWO Spinoza Prize to four outstanding researchers: Dirk Bouwmeester, Corinne Hofman, Mark van Loosdrecht, and Theunis Piersma. They will receive 2.5 million euros to pursue their research in various fields of science.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateJun 6, 2014

Probiotics prevent deadly complications of liver disease

A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that probiotics can modify the gut microbiota to prevent hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis of the liver. The researchers discovered that probiotic supplementation was not associated with any side effects, suggesting a safer treatment option.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJun 6, 2014

Biomarkers accurately distinguish mesothelioma from non-cancerous tissue

Scientists have identified four microRNAs that can aid in the differential diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) from non-cancerous pleural tissue. The biomarkers, miR-126, miR-143, miR-145, and miR-652, were found to classify tissue samples with high accuracy.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateJun 6, 2014

Football for untrained 70-year-old men

Untrained elderly men achieved marked improvements in maximum oxygen uptake, muscle function, and bone mineralization after playing football for four months. The study shows that intense football training can change the lives of elderly men, making it easier to live an active life and overcome physical challenges.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Evolution of a bimetallic nanocatalyst

Researchers used in situ TEM to study the evolution of platinum/cobalt nanoparticles during reactions in oxygen and hydrogen gases. They found that cobalt atoms migrate to form a cobalt oxide epitaxial film, which affects catalytic performance.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Satellite sees System 90L dissipating over Mexico

A tropical low pressure area in the Bay of Campeche is showing signs of development, with cloud-top temperatures near -63F (-52C). The system has a 50% chance for formation, threatening southeastern Mexico with heavy rains and life-threatening flash floods.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 6, 2014

Sleep apnea tied to diabetes in large study

A large Canadian study of over 8,500 patients found a significant link between obstructive sleep apnea and the development of diabetes. The study confirmed earlier evidence and identified that initial severity of OSA predicted subsequent risk for incident diabetes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 6, 2014

Endoscope with an oxygen sensor detects pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed an optical blood oxygen sensor attached to an endoscope that can identify pancreatic cancer with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 86%. The device measures changes in blood flow near the pancreas, which tumors alter to grow. Early detection is crucial as most pancreatic cancers are diagno...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Our ability to identify the source of pain varies across the body

Researchers create systematic map of pain acuity distribution across body, revealing surprising similarities with touch sensitivity. The study uses lasers to cause pain in healthy volunteers and a rare patient lacking touch sensation, demonstrating that pain acuity does not rely on touch.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 6, 2014

Argument with dad? Find friendly ears to talk it out, study shows

A recent study by San Francisco State University's Jeff Cookston found that adolescents receiving a reason for their father's behavior or a better understanding of who is at fault feel better about themselves and dad. This, in turn, is linked to a lower risk of depression for youth.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateJun 6, 2014

York scientists provide new insights into biomass breakdown

Researchers from the University of York have provided new information on how LPMOs work, enabling the degradation of hard-to-digest biomass into its constituent sugars. This breakthrough aims to improve second-generation biofuel production by fermenting cellulose into bioethanol.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2014

Asymmetric continental margins and the slow birth of an ocean

Researchers from GFZ, University of Sydney, and University of London discovered that the centre of a rift migrates laterally during continental break-up, causing asymmetry in continental margins. This process leads to the formation of thin crustal slivers on one side and more pronounced asymmetry due to faster extension velocity.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Tougher penalties credited for fewer casualties among young male drivers

A new study found a significant decline in speeding-related injuries and fatalities among young men in Ontario since the province's tough laws were introduced in 2007. The study credits the deterrence of swift and severe sanctions for reducing risky driving behavior.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateJun 6, 2014

Toward a better drug against malaria

Researchers from the University of Freiburg have made significant progress in understanding how the antimalarial drug atovaquone works. By analyzing its molecular structure, they have identified key binding sites and revealed the underlying mechanism of resistance to mutations. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more ef...

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 6, 2014

Text messaging program helps smokers fight the urge to light up

A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that a text-messaging program helped over 11% of smokers quit smoking compared to just 5% of controls. The program provided personalized advice and reminders to help smokers stay on track with their quitting efforts.

SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 6, 2014

Herpesviruses undercover

Scientists at HZI have shown that herpesviruses like KSHV and MHV68 modulate the TLR-induced proinflammatory cytokine response, allowing them to remain within the body for a long time. The researchers discovered that the virus actively prevents activation of the innate immune system through Toll-like receptors.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJun 6, 2014
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.

Deadly diseases overlooked for too long, scientists say

Researchers found three diseases have failed to receive official recognition and funding, impacting human and animal health in developing nations. A multidisciplinary One Health approach could improve human and animal health and control these diseases.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJun 6, 2014

Method of nickel-carbon heterofullerenes synthesis presented

Scientists from MIPT, RAS, Kurchatov Institute and Kintech Lab Ltd have developed a new method to synthesize nickel-carbon compounds using electron irradiation. The study reveals potential electronic, magnetic and optic features of these compounds.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalDalton Transactions·DateJun 6, 2014