Dear Reader ,
Here is your customized Phys.org Newsletter for January 14, 2013:
Spotlight Stories Headlines
- Scientists reassemble the backbone of life with a particle acceleratorynchrotron X-rays- New qubit control bodes well for future of quantum computing
- Chimpanzees successfully play the 'ultimatum game': Confirmation of apes' sense of fairness
- Intel's Perceptual Computing marks neo-desktop era
- Researchers find 'bipolar' marine bacteria, refuting 'everything is everywhere' idea
- Gene flow from India to Australia about 4,000 years ago
- Foot soldiers of the immune system: IFIT antiviral protein recognizes foreign RNA and blocks viral infections
- Euclid Zero debuts to capture in-store shopper behavior
- Graphene plasmonics beats the drug cheats
- Scientists discover structure of protein essential for quality control, nerve function
- Stem-cell approach shows promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy
- Team finds gene that promotes drug resistance in cancer
- Panasonic steps up 3D camera tech for virtual world tours
- TACC supercomputers simulate organization of membrane proteins at cell surface
- Smartphones fueling smarter cars, safer drivers
Space & Earth news
Former NASA manned spaceflight director dies
Dyer Brainerd Holmes, director of manned space flight for NASA when Americans were making their early forays into space in the early 1960s, has died.
Nerve centre at heart of Australian fires
As dozens of unpredictable bushfires break out in Australia's extreme heat, military-style operations are in full swing at a "nerve centre" that harnesses state-of-the-art technology allied to the power of social media.
Nuclear fears contaminate sales for Japan farmers
Mayumi Kurasawa's seaweed company saw seven of its factories swept away by Japan's 2011 tsunami. Nearly two years later, sales continue to be eroded by consumer fears over nuclear contamination.
Action to improve soil for global food security
As a society, we are becoming more aware of the many ways we can help support sustainable development and preserve the environment. Governments, scientists and international organisations are calling attention to soil: the basis for more than 90 % of world food production. With one in eight inhabitants of the world suffering from hunger, ensuring soil is managed and restored for global food security is vital. Soil is also important for sustainable development, and supports ecosystem services, biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation and mitigation.
AR1654: A monster sunspot aiming our way
Like an enormous cannon that is slowly turning its barrel toward us, the latest giant sunspot region AR1654 is steadily moving into position to face Earth, loaded with plenty of magnetic energy to create M-class flares—moderate-sized outbursts of solar energy that have the potential to cause brief radio blackouts on Earth and, at the very least, spark bright aurorae around the upper latitudes.
Homes burned but telescopes OK: Bushfire at major observatory
Australia's biggest astronomical observatory was burned in a bushfire near Coonabarabran in Western NSW overnight, threatening over $100 million worth of research infrastructure and the largest optical telescope in the country.
NASA's SDO has plenty of content for ultra HD TVs
A new kind of television made headlines at the 2013 annual Consumer Electronics Show in early January, 2013 – Ultra High Definition TV. With four times as many pixels as a current high definition (HD) TV, viewers at the show reported being impressed with how crisp and vibrant the pictures appear.
Report says warming is changing US daily life (Update)
Global warming is already changing America from sea to rising sea and is affecting how Americans live, a massive new federally commissioned report says.
Air pollution in Beijing reaches hazardous levels
Air pollution levels in China's notoriously dirty capital were at dangerous levels Saturday, with cloudy skies blocking out visibility and warnings issued for people to remain indoors.
Fire hits top Australian telescope site
Australia's top research observatory, which houses telescopes used by scientists from around the world, was damaged by a large wildfire Sunday as hot weather and storms stoked dozens of new blazes.
Beijing choked by third day of hazardous smog (Update 2)
Mask-wearing Beijing residents endured a third day of pollution at hazardous levels on Sunday, as authorities warned that a thick cloud of smog may not lift from the Chinese capital until midweek.
China pollution anger spills into state media (Update 3)
Public anger in China at dangerous levels of air pollution, which blanketed Beijing in acrid smog, spread Monday as state media queried official transparency and the nation's breakneck development.
Australia's coastal wetlands 'need room to move'
(Phys.org)—As sea levels climb, Australia's coastal wetlands will be increasingly trapped between urban development on land and the rising ocean, imperilling the survival of their unique plants, birds and fish, leading ecologists warned today.
Mixed forests: A missed opportunity?
Forestry and nature conservation can benefit from promoting a diversity of tree species, new study finds.
New study uses CMIP5 historical simulations to find out more about Arctic sea ice decline and ice export
The Arctic sea ice is shrinking, both in extent and thickness. In addition to the manmade contribution to the sea ice loss, there are also natural factors contributing to this loss. In a new study from the Bjerknes Centre we focus on one of these factors: the ice export through the large gateway between Greenland and Svalbard—the Fram Strait.
Private test pilots to fly first commercial crewed space flights for NASA
Commercial test pilots, not NASA astronauts, will fly the first crewed missions that NASA hopes will at last restore America's capability to blast humans to Earth orbit from American soil – perhaps as early as 2015 – which was totally lost following the forced shuttle shutdown.
Climate: Monthly heat records have increased fivefold
Global warming has caused monthly records for heat to increase fivefold in frequency, according to a study by scientists in Germany and Spain, published on Monday.
Rover team chooses first rock drilling target for Curiosity
A team of Mars scientists and engineers have chosen the 1st rock drilling target for NASA's Curiosity rover after carefully considering a range of options over the past several weeks at the robots current location inside a shallow depression known as 'Yellowknife Bay', which is replete with light toned rocks.
Climate laws advancing in many countries, survey says
Major economies are now implementing important legislation on climate change, according to a survey published on Monday.
Will changes in climate wipe out mammals in Arctic and sub-Arctic areas?
The climate changes depicted by climatologists up to the year 2080 will benefit most mammals that live in northern Europe's Arctic and sub-Arctic land areas today if they are able to reach their new climatic ranges. This is the conclusion drawn by ecologists at Umeå University in a recently published article in the journal Plos ONE.
NASA sees strength in newborn Tropical Cyclone Emang
Tropical Cyclone Emang developed in the Southern Indian Ocean on Sunday, Jan. 13 about 525 nautical miles east-southeast of Diego Garcia. At that time, infrared satellite imagery revealed that the low level circulation center was partially exposed to outer winds, and there was a burst of thunderstorm development over the northwestern quadrant.
New sunspots producing space weather
On Jan. 13, 2013, at 2:24 a.m. EST, the sun erupted with an Earth-directed coronal mass ejection or CME. Not to be confused with a solar flare, a CME is a solar phenomenon that can send solar particles into space and reach Earth one to three days later.
Researchers reveal gas that triggers ozone destruction
Scientists at the Universities of York and Leeds have made a significant discovery about the cause of the destruction of ozone over oceans.
Urgent CO2 cuts may spare millions hardship, report says
Tens of millions of people may be spared droughts and floods by 2050 if Earth-warming carbon emissions peak in 2016 rather than 2030, scientists said on Sunday.
White House uses humor to kill 'Death Star' petition
With the US national debt standing at more than $16 trillion, the White House says it absolutely cannot spend $850 quadrillion on a "Star Wars"-inspired "Death Star" super-weapon.
Russia plans replacement for Soyuz rocket
Russia's struggling space agency has unveiled a new multi-billion-dollar plan that will see the development of a replacement for the ageing Soyuz rocket by 2020.
Research team projects wind and wave changes as planet heats up
(Phys.org)—An international team of climate researchers has written and published an open letter in the journal Nature Climate Change, describing wind and wave pattern changes expected to come about due to global warming. In their letter, they suggest that much of the southern hemisphere will see increased winds along with higher waves, while the northern hemisphere will see the opposite.
Researchers find sediment deposits increasing in Iowa lakes despite conservation efforts
(Phys.org)—A new study conducted by researchers at Iowa State University shows that the growth of sediment deposits at the bottom of Iowa's natural lakes is accelerating despite widespread soil conservation efforts.
Russians announce retrieval of first clean ice sample from Lake Vostok
(Phys.org)—Researchers with Russia's Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute have announced that they have successfully retrieved a clean ice core sample from Lake Vostok in Antarctica. The sample, taken from a bore hole drilled over two miles through the ice to the lake underneath, is the result of years of effort. Researchers hope to find evidence in the ice of life on Earth as it existed as far back as 20 million years ago.
Technology news
US gun debate: Video game industry defends itself
(AP)—The video game industry, blamed by some for fostering a culture of violence, defended its practices at a White House meeting exploring how to prevent horrific shootings like the recent Connecticut elementary school massacre.
Foxconn faces another strike in China: rights group
Over 1,000 workers went on strike over working conditions at a plant linked to Foxconn, a rights group said Saturday, in the latest controversy to hit the Taiwanese technology giant.
Taiwan phone giant HTC opens store in Myanmar
Taiwan's leading smartphone maker HTC opened its first store in Myanmar Monday, seeking a foothold in one of Asia's last remaining untapped markets.
Anger at suicide of US Internet activist
Angry activists poured scorn on prosecutors Sunday for leading an overzealous campaign against Internet freedom fighter Aaron Swartz, with his family suggesting it contributed to his suicide.
Net profit of India's largest IT firm TCS up 23%
India's biggest IT outsourcer, Tata Consultancy Services, said on Monday that net profit beat forecasts to rise 23 percent in the third quarter despite economic woes in its main markets.
New video analytics technology minimizes interventions, accurately detects theft at self-checkout stations
Fujitsu today announced the StopLift Self-Checkout Accelerator, a sophisticated new technology designed to help minimize interventions and detect theft at self-checkout lanes using video analytics. The first company of its kind, StopLift aims to reduce excess theft alerts at self-checkouts, identify unpurchased items leaving the Self-Checkout, and increase cashier productivity.
Apple shares fall on report of parts orders cuts
Apple shares are down 4 percent in morning trading, putting them below the $500 mark for the first time since February.
Swartz' suicide fuels debate over computer crime
(AP)—Internet freedom activist Aaron Swartz, who was found dead in his New York apartment Friday, struggled for years against a legal system that he felt had not caught up to the information age. Federal prosecutors had tried unsuccessfully to mount a case against him for publishing reams of court documents that normally cost a fee to download. He helped lead the campaign to defeat a law that would have made it easier to shut down websites accused of violating copyright protections.
Obama team launches inaugural mobile app
Organizers unveiled the first-ever smartphone app for a US presidential inauguration on Monday, allowing users to track Barack Obama's swearing in, sign up for events and check maps for the closest toilets.
Feds dismiss charges against Swartz, cite suicide
Federal prosecutors in Boston have dismissed charges against Internet freedom activist Aaron Swartz, who was found dead in his New York apartment last week.
A new clean nuclear fusion reactor has been designed
A researcher at the Universidad politécnica de Madrid (UPM, Spain) has patented a nuclear fusion reactor by inertial confinement that, apart from be used to generate electric power in plants, can be applied to propel ships.
Former Nortel execs acquitted of fraud
A Canadian court on Monday acquitted three top executives of former high-flying telecom company Nortel accused of defrauding the now-defunct firm, citing a lack of evidence.
FAA to review of Boeing 787, but calls plane safe
(AP)—The U.S. government stepped in Friday to assure the public that Boeing's new 787 "Dreamliner" is safe to fly, even as it launched a comprehensive review to find out what caused a fire, a fuel leak and other worrisome incidents this week.
Reddit co-founder Aaron Swartz dies at 26
A co-founder of Reddit and activist who fought to make online content free to the public has been found dead, authorities confirmed Saturday, prompting an outpouring of grief from prominent voices on the intersection of free speech and the Web.
Oracle says Java flaw will be fixed 'shortly'
Oracle Corp. says it will soon fix a flaw in its Java software that caught the attention of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Why attend car shows when photos are a swipe away?
Why go to a crowded auto show when you can glimpse dozens of new models on the internet? Because you can't catch a whiff of that new car smell through your iPhone.
Device tosses out unusable PV wafers
Silicon wafers destined to become photovoltaic (PV) cells can take a bruising through assembly lines, as they are oxidized, annealed, purified, diffused, etched, and layered to reach their destinies as efficient converters of the sun's rays into useful electricity.
Report: Apple cutting orders for iPhone 5 parts
Apple shares are falling in premarket trading after The Wall Street Journal reported that the company has cut its orders for iPhone 5 components due to weaker-than-expected demand.
Falling up: DARPA to launch just-in-time payloads from bottom of sea
DARPA distributed systems are to hibernate in deep-sea capsules for years, wake up when commanded, and deploy to surface providing operational support and situational awareness.
PayPal expands retail store payments service
PayPal says it is expanding its payment service to more brick-and-mortar retailers, including RadioShack and Dollar General stores.
Will iPads revolutionize in-flight entertainment?
Paul Tamburelli prefers flying United Airlines or British Airways when traveling internationally. It's not just because of the price and schedule. Tamburelli, a vice president of government relations for a Phoenix company, likes that flights on those airlines aren't too boring.
Kaspersky finds 'Red October' virus targeting E. Europe
Kaspersky Lab said Monday it had identified a new computer virus it dubbed "Red October" targeting eastern European countries that appeared to be collecting classified files using NATO and EU encryption.
Dell's stock soars on report of possible buyout (Update)
Dell's stock soared 13 percent Monday on a report that the struggling personal computer maker is in talks to take the company private.
US student could "doodle" way to college money
Google on Monday launched a competition that will let a US student "doodle" his or her way to cash for college along with landing grant money to fund technology education at their grade school.
'Gorilla Glass' maker looks beyond smartphones
Corning, which played a key role in the smartphone revolution with its robust "Gorilla Glass," is looking beyond the small screen with an upgraded version which promises to be even tougher.
Google's ultrafast Internet draws startups to KC (Update)
Inside a small bungalow on the street separating Kansas City, Kansas, from its sister city in Missouri, a small group of entrepreneurs are working on their ideas for the next high-tech startup, tapping Google Inc.'s new superfast Internet connection that has turned the neighborhood into an unlikely settlement dubbed the "Silicon Prairie."
First world atlas on renewable energy launched
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) on Sunday launched the world's first atlas on clean energy which will offer open-access information on countries' renewable energy potential.
Smartphones fueling smarter cars, safer drivers
One of the most innovative automotive technologies at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas is something most drivers already own: a smartphone.
Oracle says Java is fixed; feds maintain warning
Oracle Corp. said Monday it has released a fix for the flaw in its Java software that raised an alarm from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security last week. Even after the patch was issued, the federal agency continued to recommend that users disable Java in their Web browsers.
Euclid Zero debuts to capture in-store shopper behavior
(Phys.org)—A Palo Alto-based retail analytics company this week introduced a no-hardware solution for retailers seeking store traffic data on customers. The solution works simply by monitoring people's mobile devices. The company is Euclid and the new product is Euclid Zero, designed to pick up unique mobile device IDs on smartphones when they recognize a store's Wi-Fi network. Euclid Zero will give retailers, malls, and other venues the ability to measure in-store behavior.
Intel's Perceptual Computing marks neo-desktop era
(Phys.org)—Intel wants you to know that voice, face and gesture control will become a familiar feature in computers. The time for a new kind of notebook world is now, for Intel, and computing facets including touch, voice, and visual are seated under Intel's umbrella term, Perceptual Computing. Intel is promoting this idea as the way people will interact with their computers, and the accent is on the word interact. The keyboard and mouse retreat in the background yielding to gestures and face and speech recognition.
Medicine & Health news
Only Miss. abortion clinic can't comply with law
Mississippi's only abortion clinic has missed a Friday deadline to comply with a new state law that requires each of its physicians to get hospital admitting privileges—a law the governor said he signed with the hopes of shutting the clinic down.
Swine flu kills second Jordanian in week
A Jordanian woman has died of swine flu in the second such death in a week, Health Minister Abdullatif Wreikat said on Sunday.
Spaniards protest health care reforms
(AP)—Thousands of people marched in Madrid on Sunday to protest plans to privatize parts of their public health care system, with some questioning the motives behind the government's actions.
Food for thought: Ingredients and foods that give memory a boost
While there's no magic pill that protects and boosts memory, there are several foods that consumers can easily incorporate into their diets that can help.
Researchers pioneer virtual reality to help athletes after concussions
Penn State may be the first institution to use virtual reality to protect student athletes from the very real consequences of concussions. University researchers in kinesiology, information technology and sports medicine are using the technology to investigate cognitive changes beyond the limits of typical diagnostic tests.
Depression after heart attack: Threat perception has to be addressed
Patients who feel strongly threatened by their heart disease immediately after their heart attack have a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms. The data derived from this study can lead to better heart patient management.
Protein identified that can disrupt embryonic brain development and neuron migration
Interneurons – nerve cells that function as 'dimmers' – play an important role in the brain. Their formation and migration to the cerebral cortex during the embryonic stage of development is crucial to normal brain functioning. Abnormal interneuron development and migration can eventually lead to a range of disorders and diseases, from epilepsy to Alzheimer's. New research by Dr. Eve Seuntjens and Dr. Veronique van den Berghe of the Department of Development and Regeneration (Danny Huylebroeck laboratory, Faculty of Medicine) at KU Leuven (University of Leuven) has identified two proteins, Sip1 and Unc5b, that play an important role in the development and migration of interneurons to the cerebral cortex – a breakthrough in our understanding of early brain development.
Research improves social care training in Cornwall
With reports of abuse in care settings rising, it has never been more vital that staff are trained to provide the highest standards of care to vulnerable people. In Cornwall there were instances where vulnerable adults had suffered abuse and neglect. For this reason Cornwall Council enlisted the help of ESRC-funded researchers from Plymouth University to improve training for their social care workforce.
ASH international clinical collaboration replicates high cure rate of APL in developing countries
Data published online today in Blood, the Journal of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) describe the work of an ASH international clinical network collaborative focused on modernizing treatment protocols for patients in the developing world with acute promyeloctyic leukemia (APL) that has drastically improved cure rates in patients in Central and South America, achieving comparable outcomes to those observed in patients in the United States and in Europe.
Better care from doctors who are culturally aware
HIV patients from ethnic minorities receive better quality of care from doctors and other primary healthcare professionals who are the most competent at caring for patients from diverse backgrounds – those who are "culturally competent." These patients also tend to manage both their treatment and condition better, according to a new study by Somnath Saha from Portland VA Medical Center, and the Oregon Health & Science University in the US, and colleagues. Their findings appear in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.
American College of Physicians calls for immunizations for all health care providers
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has approved a policy recommendation that all health care providers (HCPs) be immunized against influenza; diphtheria; hepatitis B; measles, mumps, and rubella; pertussis (whooping cough); and varicella (chickenpox) according to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Adult Immunization Schedule. ACP's policy exempts HCPs for medical reasons or a religious objection to immunization.
Study finds knee replacement surgery may lead to weight gain
Patients who undergo knee replacement surgery may be at risk of gaining more weight than their peers who have not had the surgery, according to a five-year study led by a Virginia Commonwealth University professor.
Feds warned against risk seen in Buffalo VA
(AP)—Authorities are asking why a Buffalo veterans hospital may have reused insulin pens on many patients, causing an HIV scare, despite federal advice to the contrary.
Death toll rises as flu epidemic grips US
The death toll from a flu outbreak gripping the United States has reached epidemic levels and it will be at least several weeks before the outbreak abates, health officials said Friday.
Flu emergency declared in NY; 20K cases in state
New York's governor declared a public health emergency Saturday for the state because of the severity of the flu season, as officials across the U.S. grapple with the worst flu outbreak in several years.
Understanding brain tumor growth opens door for non-surgical treatment
One in 25,000 people worldwide is affected by neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a condition where the loss of a tumour suppressor called Merlin results in multiple tumours in the brain and nervous system.
30 percent of teen girls report meeting offline with someone they met online
A new study highlights the risk that female teenagers face when they go online – a risk heightened for teen girls who have been victims of abuse or neglect.
Less reaction to DTaP vaccine given in kids' thighs than arms
Children age 12 to 35 months who receive DTaP vaccine in their thigh muscle rather than their arm are around half as likely to be brought in for medical attention for an injection-site reaction. So says a new study of 1.4 million children at Group Health and seven other Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD) centers across the country, e-published on January 14 in Pediatrics.
Alternative medicine use high amoung children with chronic conditions
Children who regularly see specialists for chronic medical conditions are also using complementary medicine at a high rate, demonstrates recently published research from the University of Alberta and the University of Ottawa.
Federal Safe Routes to School program reduces child injuries by more than 40 percent in New York City
The national Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program was funded by Congress in 2005 in an effort to create safe environments for American children to walk or bike to school. Has the program been effective? In New York City, most definitely, according to a new study conducted at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health that evaluated the program here. Researchers found that the annual rate of injury to school-age pedestrians ages 5-19 fell 44% during the peak times for walking to school, in neighborhoods where the program was implemented. Significantly, the injury rate did not drop in parts of the city where the SRTS safety program was not in place.
Smoking intensity and cancer markers predict seriousness of bladder cancer
it also affects its course, in that people who smoke more have greater likelihood of developing more aggressive and deadly disease. That is one of the conclusions of a new study published early online in Cancer, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society. The study also found that a panel of bladder cancer markers can predict which particular cases are at the highest risk for a fatal outcome.
Radiation therapy use low in end-stage cancer
(HealthDay)—Although the overall use of radiation treatment among elderly end-stage cancer patients is low during their final month of life, many receive more than 10 days of treatment, according to a study published in the Jan. 1 issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Insulin LY2605541 tops glargine for glycemic control in T1DM
(HealthDay)—For patients with type 1 diabetes, the novel, long-acting basal insulin LY2605541 yields greater improvement in glycemic control compared with insulin glargine, according to a study published online Nov. 27 in Diabetes Care.
Snowboarding tops list of winter-sports injuries
(HealthDay)—Across much of the United States, the winter months are a fun time filled with falling flakes and holiday cheer. But high season for snow and ice can also entail broken bones.
Childhood obesity linked to more immediate health problems than previously thought
While a great deal of research on childhood obesity has spotlighted the long-term health problems that emerge in adulthood, a new UCLA study focuses on the condition's immediate consequences and shows that obese youngsters are at far greater risk than had been supposed.
Diet change works swiftly in reducing risk
A study by Lynnette Ferguson, Professor of Nutrition at The University of Auckland, has shown that a change in diet can be effective in reducing inflammation over a period of just six weeks in healthy New Zealanders.
Parents have big influence on kids' physical activity, study finds
(Medical Xpress)—With New Year's resolutions upon us, new research from the University of Alberta offers encouragement for parents who want to achieve fitness for the whole family.
Flu data used to determine vaccine effectiveness
(Medical Xpress)—Armed with data on vaccine effectiveness from five study monitoring sites, including one at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control is renewing the call for everyone over the age of six months to get a flu vaccine.
3Qs: What to know about this year's flu season
Health officials say this year's flu outbreak is the worst in a decade, and Boston on Wednesday declared a public health emergency as the flu epidemic worsened. Forty-one states are currently experiencing widespread flu activity, and Massachusetts is one of 29 states reporting high levels of flu-like illness. We asked Mark Douglass, an associate clinical professor of pharmacy in the Bouvé College of Health Sciences, how people can protect themselves from the flu and why they should get vaccinated if they haven't already.
Rice-cell cocktail kills cancer cells, leaves normal cells alone
(Medical Xpress)—Juice from rice cells knocked out two kinds of human cancer cells as well or better than the potent anti-cancer drug Taxol in lab tests conducted by a Michigan Technological University scientist. Plus, it did something extra: it played nice with normal cells.
Stressed out? Tips for taking control
While part of everyday life, stress seems to intensify around the holidays and into the new year.
Metabolomics key to identifying disease pathway: Research reveals lactic acid's role in lung disease
(Medical Xpress)—Expertise at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory contributed to the understanding of the role of cellular metabolism in the pathogenesis of a currently untreatable lung disease. This research, reported in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, highlights the importance of PNNL's nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics in the field of biomedicine.
Take-home CPR kit offers efficient, effective training for families of children with serious health conditions
(Medical Xpress)—Many children with chronic disease or serious health conditions are at risk of cardiac arrest. Teaching their parents to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation can save kids' lives and prevent brain damage caused by delayed resuscitation. But ensuring that these parents receive timely, effective CPR training before they leave the hospital with their child has been challenging.
Breakthrough in understanding of how cancer treatment drugs affect cells
(Medical Xpress)—A young Victoria University scientist is part of a team whose work has been published in the prestigious international magazine Science, for research that will open doors to developing much more effective cancer treatment drugs.
Investigating the bystander effect: Virtual Reality as a viable platform for experimental psychology
The bystander effect is well-known in behavioural psychology and suggests that the more people who witnessing a violent emergency the less likely it is that someone will intervene. It was first identified in the 1960s, but conducting research on the phenomenon has been difficult. Most experiments rely upon staging fake emergencies or violent encounters using actors, but it is tricky to gauge how genuine a response is.
New implant replaces impaired middle ear
(Medical Xpress)—Functionally deaf patients can gain normal hearing with a new implant that replaces the middle ear. The unique invention from the Chalmers University of Technology has been approved for a clinical study. The first operation was performed on a patient in December 2012.
How do happiness and sadness circuits contribute to bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a severe mood disorder characterized by unpredictable and dramatic mood swings between the highs of mania and lows of depression. These mood episodes occur among periods of 'normal mood', termed euthymia.
Smoking, high blood pressure and cholesterol can be fatal for haemorrhage survivors, study finds
A Finnish study shows that patients who have experienced subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) have a highly increased risk of death due to a stroke or cerebral haemorrhage, and have double the mortality rate of the general population. The researchers state that considerably more attention should be paid to risk factors in the life of SAH survivors.
With 'snorkel' technique, vascular surgeons advance safe treatment of complex aortic aneurysms
Geraldine Vitullo lay anesthetized on an operating table in a Central Valley hospital. Her surgery had come to an unexpected stop. "I don't think I can proceed," the surgeon told Vitullo's husband.
Twitter can help people lose weight
(Medical Xpress)—Using Twitter can help you achieve a healthy weight. A study by researchers at the University of South Carolina's Arnold School of Public Health has found that using Twitter, the popular information network joining people throughout the world, is a valuable support system for helping people lose weight.
Coca-Cola to address obesity for first time in ads (Update)
Coca-Cola became one of the world's most powerful brands by equating its soft drinks with happiness. Now, for the first time, it's addressing a growing cloud over the industry: obesity.
Scientists reveal aggressive breast cancer's metastatic path
Scientists at Weill Cornell Medical College have discovered the molecular switch that allows aggressive triple negative breast cancer cells to grow the amoeba-like protrusions they need to crawl away from a primary tumor and metastasize throughout the body. Their findings, published in Cancer Cell, suggest a novel approach for developing agents to treat cancer once it has spread.
Cervical cancer screening in less-developed areas should be tailored to local conditions
The best approach to detecting cervical cancer in HIV-positive women living in research limited countries such as those in Sub-Saharan Africa combines commonly used testing methods tailored to local levels of development and medical infrastructure, according to a study by researchers from and the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa and the University of North Carolina.
Report exposes a dangerous lack of official oversight
The deadly consequences of workplace sectors without inspectors are the subject of a new study by Stirling's Professor of Occupational Health Policy Research, Rory O'Neill.
Fast food linked to child asthma, study finds
Children who frequently eat fast food are far likelier to have severe asthma compared to counterparts who tuck into fruit, a large international study published on Monday said.
Could baby's tummy bacteria help spur colic?
(HealthDay)— Colic is a common problem for babies, and new research may finally provide clues to its cause: A small study found that infants with colic seemed to develop certain intestinal bacteria later than those without the condition.
Research makes connetion between tubal ligation and increase in cervical cancer rates
the surgical tying or severing of fallopian tubes to prohibit pregnancy – have less frequent Pap smears, which puts them at an increased risk for cervical cancer, according to research recently released by a team that included Cara A. Mathews, MD, a gynecologic oncologist at the Program in Women's Oncology at Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island.
Ultrasonic testing with Doppler imaging can rule out blood clots in pregnant women
The use of serial compression ultrasonographic testing together with Doppler imaging appears to be a reliable method of ruling out blood clots in the legs of pregnant women, according to a study published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). Physicians can likely safely withhold anticoagulation therapy based on the results.
Drug overdose now the leading cause of death among homeless adults in Boston
Drug overdose was the leading cause of death among homeless adults in Boston from 2003 to 2008 and accounted for one-third of deaths among those ages 25 to 44. A study by investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP) compared rates and causes of death among those served by BHCHP with data from a similar 1997 study and found that, while drug overdose had replaced HIV as the leading cause of death, overall mortality rates had not changed.
Strawberries, blueberries may cut heart attack risk in women
Eating three or more servings of blueberries and strawberries per week may help women reduce their risk of a heart attack by as much as one-third, researchers reported in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association.
Parkinson's can lead to anxiety and other non-motor symptoms, even early on
While movement problems are the main symptom of Parkinson's disease, a new study shows that even early in the course of disease people frequently experience many non-motor symptoms such as drooling, anxiety and constipation. The study is published in the January 15, 2013, print issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Early surgical menopause linked to declines in memory and thinking skills
Women who undergo surgical menopause at an earlier age may have an increased risk of decline in memory and thinking skills, according to a study released today that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 65th Annual Meeting in San Diego, March 16 to 23, 2013. Early surgical menopause is the removal of both ovaries before natural menopause and often accompanies a hysterectomy.
Generic HIV treatment strategy could save nearly $1 billion annually but may be less effective
Replacing the combination of brand-name, antiretroviral drugs currently recommended for control of HIV infection with soon-to-be-available generic medications could save the U.S. health care system almost $1 billion a year but may diminish the effectiveness of HIV treatment. A study led by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) investigators, appearing in the January 15 Annals of Internal Medicine, examines the potential impact of such a change.
Liver controls wasting in cancer: Overactive gene switch in the liver causes blood fat levels to drop
Many cancer patients suffer from a dramatic loss of fat and muscle mass. This extreme wasting, or cachexia, is often the actual cause of death in cancer patients. Heidelberg scientists have now discovered in mice that tumors stimulate the production of a key gene switch in the liver. Activity of this switch lowers blood fat levels so that the animals lose weight. This finding may lead to approaches to slow down this fatal loss of body mass.
Carolina scientists use virus to deliver genetic material to slow kids' illness
Even if the patients hadn't been as young as 4 months old, the surgery would have been harrowing: six holes bored into the skull, six tiny tubes inserted directly into targeted parts of the brain, then a solution containing hundreds of millions of viruses pumped in.
Parkinson's treatment can trigger creativity
Parkinson's experts across the world have been reporting a remarkable phenomenon—many patients treated with drugs to increase the activity of dopamine in the brain as a therapy for motor symptoms such as tremors and muscle rigidity are developing new creative talents, including painting, sculpting, writing, and more.
Are some patients too heavy for a new kidney?
In a research review article published in the American Journal of Nephrology, Saint Louis University investigators examined data from multiple studies to better understand how obesity, an epidemic in the U.S., impacts kidney transplant patients. The authors report that, even as some connections between weight and health outcomes are unknown or contradictory, there is evidence that obese kidney transplant patients don't do as well after surgery, experiencing more adverse outcomes, including wound infections, delayed graft function, graft failure, cardiac disease and increased costs.
Physio for the home
Accidents or operations are often followed by long periods of rehabilitation treatment. In future, a new technology will allow patients to do physiotherapy exercises at home, while still making sure that they are performing movements correctly.
Top five issues for docs and patients identified for 2013
(HealthDay)—The top five issues that will impact physicians and patients in 2013 have been identified, according to a report published Dec. 10 by The Physicians Foundation.
Alternative med use common in pediatric specialty outpatients
(HealthDay)—Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is commonly used among pediatric specialty outpatients, according to a study published online Jan. 14 in Pediatrics.
New hematuria risk index IDs patients at low cancer risk
(HealthDay)—A Hematuria Risk Index could identify cancer risk among patients with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria, according to a study published online Jan. 11 in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
Concurrent breast augmentation / mastopexy deemed safe
(HealthDay)—The overall complication and reoperation rate for a one-stage simultaneous breast augmentation/mastopexy procedure is about 23 percent, according to research published in the January issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
In oropharyngeal cancer, HPV status impacts distant mets risk
(HealthDay)—In patients with oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), human papillomavirus (HPV) status and T and N staging categories affect the rate of distant control (DC) and may help identify candidates for treatment deintensification strategies, according to research published online Jan. 7 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Lower cuff pressure reduces wound complications in TKA
(HealthDay)—Lower tourniquet cuff pressure, achieved using a limb-occlusion pressure method, is associated with reduced postoperative wound complications after total knee arthroplasty, according to research published in the Dec. 19 issue of The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery.
Novel racial/ethnic differences found in diabetic kidney disease
(HealthDay)—Rates of proteinuric and nonproteinuric diabetic kidney disease (DKD) vary significantly across racial/ethnic groups, according to a study published online Dec. 13 in Diabetes Care.
Researchers discover novel role of the NEDD9 gene in early stages of breast cancer
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States. Many of these deaths occur when there is an initial diagnosis of invasive or metastatic disease. A protein called NEDD9—which regulates cell migration, division and survival—has been linked to tumor invasion and metastasis in a variety of cancers. Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center have now shown that NEDD9 plays a surprising role in the early stages of breast tumor development by controlling the growth of progenitor cells that give rise to tumors. The findings, published in the journal Oncogene on January 14, 2013, could lead to personalized treatment strategies for women with breast cancer based on the levels of NEDD9 in their tumors.
Scientists identify protective role for antibodies in Ebola vaccine study
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have found that an experimental vaccine elicits antibodies that can protect nonhuman primates from Ebola virus infection.
Scientists find a new way to boost common cancer drugs
Shutting down a specific pathway in cancer cells appears to improve the ability of common drugs to wipe those cells out, according to new research from scientists at Fox Chase Cancer Center, published in the January issue of Cancer Discovery.
Diet may not impact certain health outcomes in older persons
Eating diets high in sugar and fat may not affect the health outcomes of older adults ages 75 and up, suggesting that placing people of such advanced age on overly restrictive diets to treat their excess weight or other conditions may have little benefit, according to researchers at Penn State and Geisinger Healthcare System.
If we go over the fiscal cliff, will people spend or save? Childhood environments may hold the key
In the face of hard times, which strategy gives us the best shot at survival: saving for the future or spending resources on immediate gains? The answer may depend on the economic conditions we faced in childhood, according to new research published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science.
2012 US military suicides hit a record high of 349
Suicides in the U.S. military surged to a record 349 last year, far exceeding American combat deaths in Afghanistan, and some private experts are predicting the dark trend will worsen this year.
U.S. launches extensive Alzheimer's studies
(HealthDay)—Four U.S. government-funded clinical trials will search for new therapies for Alzheimer's disease.
Study: Graphic warnings on cigarettes effective across demographic groups
Quitting smoking is a common New Year's resolution for Americans each year, but research has repeatedly shown it is not an easy task. Some groups, such as racial/ethnic minorities, have an even harder time quitting. New research suggests hard-hitting graphic tobacco warnings may help smokers of diverse backgrounds who are struggling to quit. A new study by researchers at Legacy® and Harvard School of Public Health provides further evidence that bold pictorial cigarette warning labels that visually depict the health consequences of smoking—such as those required under the 2009 Family Smoking and Prevention Tobacco Control Act—play a life-saving role in highlighting the dangers of smoking and encouraging smokers to quit.
Supplements and cow's milk play biggest roles in determining vitamin D levels in children
Taking a vitamin D supplement and drinking cow's milk are the two most important factors that determine how much vitamin D is in a child's body, new research has found.
Patient expectations of acute bronchitis not consistent with the best evidence
New research from the University of Georgia exposes a large discrepancy in the length of time patients expect an acute cough illness, also called acute bronchitis, to last and the reality of the illness. This mismatch may be a factor in the over-prescription of antibiotics.
New study says molecular 'switch' may play role in tumor suppression
Newly published research by Indiana University structural biologist Joel Ybe and colleagues identifies a "topology switch" in the protein clathrin, the function of which may shed light on molecular processes involved in tumor suppression.
Pill-sized device provides rapid, detailed imaging of esophageal lining
Physicians may soon have a new way to screen patients for Barrett's esophagus, a precancerous condition usually caused by chronic exposure to stomach acid. Researchers at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) have developed an imaging system enclosed in a capsule about the size of a multivitamin pill that creates detailed, microscopic images of the esophageal wall. The system has several advantages over traditional endoscopy.
Cancer suppressor gene links metabolism with cellular aging
The tumor suppressor protein p53 is an attractive target for drug developers. But this path has so far proven difficult, as most p53 regulatory proteins operate via protein-protein interactions, which make for poor drug targets, as opposed to ones based on enzymes. Now, researchers have identified a class of p53 target genes and regulatory molecules that represent more promising therapeutic candidates.
Sugar fights still simmer as new brain study finds fructose might stimulate appetite
Fructose, a sugar much maligned in recent years, recently took another hit when a preliminary study by Yale University found that it might stimulate appetite more than other sugar types. The results came as no surprise to Robert Lustig, MD, a pediatric endocrinologist at the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital who's made headlines for years with his public health crusade against excess sugar consumption.
New discovery in autism-related disorder reveals key mechanism in brain development and disease
A new finding in neuroscience for the first time points to a developmental mechanism linking the disease-causing mutation in an autism-related disorder, Timothy syndrome, and observed defects in brain wiring, according to a study led by scientist Ricardo Dolmetsch and published online yesterday in Nature Neuroscience. These findings may be at the heart of the mechanisms underlying intellectual disability and many other brain disorders.
Medicinal toothbrush tree yields antibiotic to treat TB in new way
A compound from the South African toothbrush tree inactivates a drug target for tuberculosis in a previously unseen way.
Impaired coordination of brain activity in autism involves local, as well as long-range, signaling
A study based at the Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) finds that the local functional connectivity of the brain – the extent to which the activity of within a small brain region appears to be coordinated – is reduced in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although it has been recognized for several years that functional connectivity between separate areas of the brain was reduced in ASD, it had been assumed that local functional connectivity was actually higher in the brains of autistic individuals.
25 new autism-related gene variants discovered
Genetics researchers have identified 25 additional copy number variations (CNVs)—missing or duplicated stretches of DNA—that occur in some patients with autism. These CNVs, say the researchers, are "high impact": although individually rare, each has a strong effect in raising an individual's risk for autism.
Team finds gene that promotes drug resistance in cancer
Scientists from the University of Iowa and Brigham Young University (BYU) have identified a gene that may be a target for overcoming drug resistance in cancer. The finding could not only improve prognostic and diagnostic tools for evaluating cancer and monitoring patients' response to treatment but also could lead to new therapies directed at eradicating drug-resistant cancer cells.
Stem-cell approach shows promise for Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Researchers have shown that transplanting stem cells derived from normal mouse blood vessels into the hearts of mice that model the pathology associated with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) prevents the decrease in heart function associated with DMD.
Pot use-low IQ link challenged in study
(HealthDay)—A new analysis challenges previous research that suggested teens put their long-term brainpower in danger when they smoke marijuana heavily.
Lack of protein Sp2 disrupts neuron creation in brain
(Medical Xpress)—A protein known as Sp2 is key to the proper creation of neurons from stem cells, according to researchers at North Carolina State University. Understanding how this protein works could enable scientists to "program" stem cells for regeneration, which has implications for neural therapies.
Foot soldiers of the immune system: IFIT antiviral protein recognizes foreign RNA and blocks viral infections
Researchers at McGill University and the Research Center for Molecular Medicine (CeMM) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences have discovered the molecular blueprint behind the IFIT protein. This key protein enables the human immune system to detect viruses and prevent infection by acting as foot soldiers guarding the body against infection. They recognize foreign viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) produced by the virus and act as defender molecules by potentially latching onto the genome of the virus and preventing it from making copies of itself, blocking infection. The findings are a promising step towards developing new drugs for combatting a wide range of immune system disorders.
Biology news
Two new studies show why biodiversity is important for pollination services in California almond
Agricultural demand for pollination is growing more quickly than the supply of honey bees, the dominant species managed for crop pollination. Increasing the efficiency of pollination represents a way of increasing crop yield without any increase in agricultural intensity or area. A study recently published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences (9 Jan 2013) 1, shows that the pollination effectiveness of honey bees in California almond orchards was greater in the presence of other bees.
Using lysine estimates to detect heat damage in DDGS
Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) are a good source of energy and protein in swine diets. However, they can be damaged by excessive heat during processing, compromising their nutritional value. University of Illinois researchers have found that it is possible to assess heat damage by predicting the digestibility of lysine in DDGS.
Amino acid studies may aid battle against citrus greening disease
Amino acids in orange juice might reveal secrets to the successful attack strategy of the plant pathogen that causes citrus greening disease, also known as Huanglongbing or HLB. Studies of these amino acids by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) chemist Andrew P. Breksa III and University of California-Davis professor Carolyn M. Slupsky may pave the way to a safe, effective, environmentally friendly approach to undermine Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, the microbial culprit behind HLB.
Food bug forensic tracking
Detective-style high-tech methods are being used in meat factories to trace harmful microbial contaminants.
Chlamydia threat to untouched koala population
(Phys.org)—An outbreak of koala chlamydia in the Southern Highlands also poses a threat to a completely unaffected colony in Campbelltown.
New insights into cell division: Researchers develop minimal system
All living organisms consist of cells that have arisen from other living cells by the process of cell division. However, it is not yet fully understood just how this important process takes place.
The secrets of a tadpole's tail and the implications for human healing
Scientists at The University of Manchester have made a surprising finding after studying how tadpoles re-grow their tails which could have big implications for research into human healing and regeneration.
Diamondback moth genome provides new clues for sustainable pest management
An international research consortium, led by Fujian Agriculture, Forestry University (FAFU) and BGI, has completed the first genome sequence of the diamondback moth (DBM), the most destructive pest of brassica crops. This work provides wider insights into insect adaptation to host plant and opens new ways for more sustainable pest management. The latest study was published online today in Nature Genetics.
EU releases all data on GM corn linked to cancer
The EU's food safety agency challenged its doubters on Monday, making available all the scientific information used to clear a genetically modified corn which a French researcher had linked to cancer.
Potential harvest of most fish stocks largely unrelated to abundance
Fisheries managers should sharpen their ability to spot environmental conditions that hamper or help fish stocks, rather than assuming that having a certain abundance of fish assures how much can be sustainably harvested.
Salmon runs boom, go bust over centuries
Salmon runs are notoriously variable: strong one year, and weak the next. New research shows that the same may be true from one century to the next.
Study shows pine beetle outbreak buffers watersheds from nitrate pollution
A research team involving several scientists from the University of Colorado Boulder has found an unexpected silver lining in the devastating pine beetle outbreaks ravaging the West: Such events do not harm water quality in adjacent streams as scientists had previously believed.
Chimpanzees successfully play the 'ultimatum game': Confirmation of apes' sense of fairness
Researchers at the Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, are the first to show chimpanzees possess a sense of fairness that has previously been attributed as uniquely human. Working with colleagues from Georgia State University, the researchers played the Ultimatum Game with the chimpanzees to determine how sensitive the animals are to the reward distribution between two individuals if both need to agree on the outcome.
Gene flow from India to Australia about 4,000 years ago
Long before Europeans settled in Australia humans had migrated from the Indian subcontinent to Australia and mixed with Australian aborigines.
Researchers find 'bipolar' marine bacteria, refuting 'everything is everywhere' idea
In another blow to the "Everything is Everywhere" tenet of bacterial distribution in the ocean, scientists at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) have found "bipolar" species of bacteria that occur in the Arctic and Antarctic, but nowhere else.
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