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Science News for May 11, 2010


Anti-inflammatory drugs can help block hypertension-related kidney damage

Researchers found that anti-inflammatory drugs can preserve kidney function in hypertensive rats by regulating blood pressure on tiny filters called glomeruli. The study aims to understand how kidneys autoregulate pressure and explore the role of inflammatory factors in arteriole dysregulation.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateMay 11, 2010

Measuring success: Regenstrief helps assess value of investment in health info tech

A new study from the Regenstrief Institute provides a framework for evaluating the costs, effort, and value of health information exchange services. The framework will help track the development and utilization of these services, crucial for understanding their impact on quality of care and patient safety.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

Quantum move toward next generation computing

Physicists at McGill University have developed a cantilever force sensor to measure the energy involved in adding electrons to semi-conductor nanocrystals. This innovation could lead to the development of components replacing silicon chips in computers, increasing speed and reducing size.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2010

What makes a good school principal?

University of Missouri researcher Jason Grissom is leading a study to determine the qualities and skills necessary for effective school principals. The study, funded by a $1 million grant, aims to gather data from K-12 administrators, teachers, and district officials to examine what makes a principal successful.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMay 11, 2010

Traffic density and increased BMI linked

A University of Alberta study found that people living in neighborhoods with high perceived traffic density were more likely to have a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) than those who didn't. The study also revealed age and socioeconomic status as significant factors, with younger individuals experiencing greater BMI increases.

SourceUniversity of Alberta - Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMay 11, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

No clear criteria for diagnosing food allergies, Stanford researcher finds

A new study by Stanford researchers highlights the need for standardized criteria in diagnosing food allergies due to differing definitions and inconsistent treatment approaches. This could lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary anxiety for patients with food intolerance, while also potentially overdiagnosing food allergies.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMay 11, 2010

UT Southwestern researchers find mechanism that may stop E. coli from developing in cattle

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a genetic sensing mechanism that allows E. coli to form colonies in cattle, and found that interfering with this system can prevent the bacteria from colonizing and reaching humans. This discovery could lead to new strategies for preventing food-borne illnesses.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2010

Marine protected areas conserve Mediterranean red coral

Mediterranean red coral populations thrive in three decades-old Marine Protected Areas, but future conservation efforts may be needed to ensure species resilience. The areas have proven effective in conserving this slow-growing species.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateMay 11, 2010

Genetic pattern that predicts leukemia relapse discovered

A consistent pattern in five genes has been found to predict the likelihood of relapse in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), allowing for more aggressive treatment to be administered from diagnosis. This discovery has significant potential to improve outcomes for patients at high risk of relapse.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Cancer·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

Rare disease in Amish children sheds light on common neurological disorders

Researchers link PMSE syndrome to mTOR pathway, a complex network implicated in common neurological disorders with autism-like symptoms. The study reveals clues about TSC, a relatively common disorder, and its connection to PMSE and other neurological conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 11, 2010

Dinosaur research: Chew and stay small

Long-necked dinosaurs were able to grow extremely long necks due to their unique digestive system, which allowed them to chew and digest food more efficiently. This enabled them to browse their surroundings without having to move their large body weight.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiological Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

Unique map shows general election results in new light

Researchers at the University of Sheffield created a unique map showing General Election results based on population data. The map provides an alternative perspective by reflecting where people live in the country, enabling a better understanding of voting preferences and population density.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·DateMay 11, 2010
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Rapid prenatal test for alpha-thalassemia

Researchers at Mahidol University have created a rapid prenatal test for diagnosing alpha-thalassemia. The new assay boasts high sensitivity and specificity, as well as a decreased risk of contamination, making it suitable for large-scale screening in Southeast Asia.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateMay 11, 2010

A safer alternative to laser eye surgery?

A new Cochrane Systematic Review suggests phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) may be a safer alternative to excimer laser surgery for moderate to high levels of short-sightedness. Patients who underwent IOL treatment reported better spectacle-corrected vision and contrast sensitivity, as well as higher patient satisfaction.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

Space technology revolutionizes archaeology, understanding of Maya

Researchers from the University of Central Florida used LiDAR technology to map the ancient Maya city of Caracol, detecting over 11,000 new structures and confirming its size. The technology revealed extensive agricultural terracing, showing the Maya were adept at 'building green' long before modern terminology.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·DateMay 11, 2010

British Indian children have better mental health

A recent study by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that British Indian children have substantially lower rates of mental health disorders, with only 3.7% affected compared to 10.0% for White children. This advantage was attributed to factors such as two-parent households and higher academic abilities, suggesting a rea...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMay 11, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Scientists design new drug type to kill lymphoma cells

Researchers have developed a new type of drug that targets the BCL6 protein, which is essential for lymphoma cell survival and multiplication. The breakthrough could lead to improved treatment options with fewer side effects, increasing cure rates for diffuse large B cell lymphomas.

SourceSamuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 11, 2010

'Tsunami' video sheds light on struggling pupfish

A rare opportunity to study how a critically endangered species copes with an earthquake- induced tsunami has been provided by researchers. The Devils Hole pupfish inhabit a small, shallow pool in the Mojave Desert, and the quake's impact on their habitat and behavior was documented on camera.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateMay 11, 2010

Stem cells use GPS to generate proper nerve cells

Researchers at Linköping University discovered a new function that regulates stem cell production of different types of cells in various parts of the nervous system. The study found that Hox genes, similar to a GPS system, guide stem cells to produce specific nerve cells in certain regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 11, 2010
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Schizophrenia: Regular exercise guidelines still apply

Exercise programs improved anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia, while changes in physical health outcomes were not significant. Regular exercise is recommended for those with schizophrenia, just like the general population.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

Exploring gender differences in colorectal cancer screenings

Researchers found that African American women are more aware of the importance of screening and are more willing to undergo the procedure, while men report barriers such as lack of trust in the healthcare system and fear of the procedure. Despite these differences, both groups recognize the benefits of early detection and prevention.

SourceTemple University·JournalJournal of Cancer Education·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

MIT researchers find a way to calculate the effects of Casimir forces

Researchers create powerful new tool for calculating Casimir forces, allowing repulsion in microelectromechanical systems. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the failure rate of existing MEMS devices and enable affordable, new technologies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2010

Restructuring also puts workers who remain at risk, study says

A new study by University of Illinois labor expert John Dencker found that restructuring shifts workplace power towards firms, leading to performance-based bonuses that slow payroll growth. The shift creates fears of termination for managers, affecting their wages and career stability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdministrative Science Quarterly·DateMay 11, 2010
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Lake sturgeon have genes from parasite, signs of human STD

Researchers at Purdue University discovered that lake sturgeon have genes from a parasitic worm and a protozoan parasite that causes a sexually transmitted disease in humans. This finding could lead to new methods of sex determination without harming the fish, which are endangered due to overfishing and pollution.

SourcePurdue University·JournalGenetica·DateMay 11, 2010

Long-term studies of chronic disease needed in Africa

The need for longitudinal cohorts in sub-Saharan Africa is highlighted due to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases. These studies can investigate multiple complex diseases and risk factors over an individual's lifetime.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 11, 2010

Does foreign policy help or hinder global health?

Global health diplomacy is gaining traction in foreign policy circles, with the WHO Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative aiming to integrate health into international agendas. Experts emphasize the importance of diplomatic engagement for addressing global health challenges and advancing national security objectives.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 11, 2010

Monitoring and control can limit side effects of promising cancer drugs

A clinical panel recommends that patients' blood pressure should be closely monitored and controlled before starting angiogenesis inhibitors for cancer treatment. Treating a patient's hypertension before treatment begins and maintaining blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg can help control this side effect.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

Caffeine reduces mistakes made by shift workers

A new study found that caffeine can help shift workers make fewer mistakes and improve their performance in tasks such as driving and neuropsychological tests. The researchers reviewed data from 13 trials studying the effects of caffeine on shift work and found a significant reduction in errors made by participants.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

Hubble catches heavyweight runaway star speeding from 30 Doradus

Astronomers discovered a runaway star in the Large Magellanic Cloud's 30 Doradus Nebula, with a speed of over 400,000 km/h. The star is estimated to be around 10 times hotter than the Sun and has been ejected from its home cluster through dynamical interaction.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 11, 2010

DNA could be backbone of next generation logic chips

Duke University engineer Chris Dwyer demonstrates that DNA can be used to create simple logic gates, or switches, using light to excite molecules. This technology has the potential to produce virtually unlimited supplies of these tiny circuits, paving the way for faster and more efficient computing.

SourceDuke University·JournalSmall·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

No-till farming improves soil stability

A joint study across the central Great Plains found that no-till farming stores more soil carbon, binding particles together and reducing vulnerability to raindrops. This makes the topsoil less susceptible to erosion by water or wind, critical in semiarid regions with low precipitation and high evaporation.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMay 11, 2010

A woman's touch: Physical contact increases financial risk taking

A new study published in Psychological Science found that physical contact from a female experimenter increases financial risk taking in adults. The researchers suggest that this effect is due to the way mothers use touch to make their babies feel secure, creating a sense of attachment and increased willingness to take risks.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

Researchers identify additional genes that may play a role in AD

A team of researchers has identified two new genes that may play a role in the development of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, used genome-wide association analysis to identify the genes on chromosomes 2 and 19, which were found to be associated with AD.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMay 11, 2010

Iowa State engineers design power structures that help keep the lights on

Researchers at Iowa State University have designed a new type of transmission pole that can resist extreme loads and prevent cascading failures. The hinged poles, which are cheaper and easier to install than traditional structures, can be repaired rather than replaced, providing better and more reliable power service.

SourceIowa State University·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

New study suggests sickle cell disease may affect brain function in adults

Research suggests that adult patients with few or mild complications of sickle cell disease may develop cognitive problems, such as difficulty organizing thoughts or learning. The study found that more than a third of participants scored below normal levels on cognitive function tests.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJAMA·DateMay 11, 2010
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Bats' echolocation recorded for human exploit

Researchers have recorded and recreated Egyptian fruit bats' echolocation calls, allowing them to apply the technique to human engineering systems. The study will enhance information on robotic vehicles' locations, detecting structural flaws.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateMay 11, 2010

Many pregnant women not getting enough vitamin D

A recent study reveals that seven out of ten pregnant women in the United States have insufficient vitamin D levels. Prenatal vitamins may not be enough to meet the needs of all women, particularly those with darker skin or living in regions with limited sunlight during winter months.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 11, 2010

Bloomberg School receives $100K Grand Challenges Explorations grant

The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health has received a $100,000 Grand Challenges Explorations grant to develop an evolution-proof pesticide that could prevent malaria. The project aims to use a virus to instruct the mosquito to die after transmitting the malaria parasite, reducing the risk of resistance.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateMay 11, 2010

G20 Toronto summit unlikely to achieve major reform, Rotman study suggests

A new study suggests that the G20 Toronto summit may not lead to significant reforms in financial regulations. The study highlights the challenges of coordinating policies among countries with diverse financial structures, making harmonization a difficult task.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalThe Journal of Economic Asymmetries·DateMay 11, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Overtime work is bad for the heart

A long-running study of over 10,000 civil servants in London found that working overtime was associated with a 60% higher risk of heart-related problems. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, controlled for various risk factors and suggested that chronic stress may be a key mechanism behind this association.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateMay 11, 2010

Revealing the metabolic activity of microbial communities

Researchers have developed a new method to study the metabolic functions of microbial communities, identifying key species and interactions in complex decomposition processes. The Protein-SIP technique measures carbon flux accurately, revealing food chains within microbial communities.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateMay 11, 2010
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.

Cancer: Trapping the escape artist

Recent discoveries may help curb anti-apoptotic proteins that tumors express to resist treatment. Researchers outline how six anti-apoptotic proteins in the Bcl-2 family are expressed differently in different cancers.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateMay 11, 2010