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Science News for September 10, 2010


Program to improve palliative care falls short of hopes

A recent study published by the American Thoracic Society found that an intervention designed to improve palliative care in ICU settings was ineffective in improving family satisfaction after a loved one's death. The program aimed to enhance communication between doctors, nurses, and families but failed to make a significant impact.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 10, 2010

Untiring dedication to solar energy

Prof. Dr. Hans-Werner Schock received the prestigious Becquerel Prize for his outstanding work in solar energy technology, particularly in developing efficient thin-film solar cells. His research has led to significant advancements in solar cell efficiency and material combinations, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.

Flying fish glide as well as birds

A study published in The Journal of Experimental Biology found that flying fish can glide better than insects and as well as birds like petrels. The research revealed that the fish's lift-to-drag ratio increased when gliding near the surface, allowing them to cover longer distances.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 10, 2010

Many roads lead to superconductivity

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) have discovered a universal magnetic signature among all iron-based superconductors. Despite differences in magnetism, these materials display the same magnetic resonance signal as their parent compounds, hinting at a new understanding of how superconductivity arises.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 10, 2010

Graphene may hold key to speeding up DNA sequencing

Researchers at Harvard University have demonstrated that graphene can act as an artificial membrane separating two liquid reservoirs, enabling the measurement of ion exchange and the detection of single molecules of DNA. The graphene membrane's atomic thickness makes it a novel electrical device with potential applications in chemical ...

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateSep 10, 2010

Sizing up stockpiles of children's vaccines

Researchers developed a mathematical framework to optimize vaccine stockpile levels, balancing objectives such as minimizing shortages, maintaining coverage, and reducing costs. The model demonstrates that one-size-fits-all approach may not work, and optimal stockpiles depend on disease importance and initial conditions.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalJournal of Industrial and Management Optimization·DateSep 10, 2010

Shenk wins AGHE's Friedsam Award

Dena Shenk, PhD, of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte has been awarded AGHE's Friedsam Mentorship Award for her contributions to gerontological education through outstanding mentorship. She is a cultural anthropologist focusing on aging cross-culturally and director of UNC Charlotte's Gerontology Program.

Scientists of Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen and TU Muenchen elucidate structure details of protein Sam68

Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen and TU Muenchen used NMR spectroscopy to determine the spatial structure of Sam68's Qua1 region, essential for dimerization and biological function. The study sheds light on Sam68's role in cell cycle regulation and cancer pathogenesis.