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Science News Archive April 2011


Page 1 of 26
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.

Maternal obesity puts infants at risk

A study of 281 mother/newborn pairs found that maternal obesity is associated with impaired iron status in infants, which could affect brain development. The researchers are investigating why obesity during pregnancy increases the risk of poorer iron status at birth.

SourceAmerican Academy of Pediatrics·DateApr 30, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Male doctors more likely to be disciplined for misconduct

A University of Melbourne study found that male doctors are four times more likely than female doctors to face disciplinary action for misconduct. The majority of cases involved sexual misconduct, which was responsible for 24% of all cases handled by tribunals.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateApr 30, 2011

Metal-free click polymerization of propiolates and azides

Researchers from Zhejiang University have expanded metal-free click polymerization to propiolate-azides, efficiently preparing functional poly(aroxycarbonyltriazole) compounds with high molecular weight and regioselectivity. These polymers exhibit aggregation-induced emission characteristics and serve as sensitive fluorescent chemosens...

SourceScience China Press·DateApr 30, 2011
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.

2011 ARVO Award recipients honored at annual meeting

The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) honored its 2011 Award recipients, including Robert E. Anderson, Paulus de Jong, James T. Rosenbaum, Andrew J. Fischer, and Gullapalli N. Rao, for their groundbreaking research on photoreceptors, retinal diseases, intraocular inflammation, myopia, and vision-guided ocular ...

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·DateApr 29, 2011

2011 ARVO Fellows announced

This year's class of distinguished fellows recognizes outstanding leadership and service in vision research. The ARVO Fellows will be officially inducted at the Association's Annual Meeting, May 1, 2023.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·DateApr 29, 2011
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.

The rewards of doing 'something'

A new review article suggests that people's broader goals of being active or inactive play a significant role in shaping their time spent on various activities. This inclination to do more, even if the task is trivial, can lead to unhealthy behaviors despite specific goals.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateApr 29, 2011

Paul Sanberg receives Everfront Award at stem cell conference in Taiwan

Dr. Paul Sanberg, a renowned researcher in stem cell therapy, received the Everfront Award for his groundbreaking work on regenerative medicine for neurodegenerative disorders. His research expertise and initiatives in innovation and translational medicine were recognized by the symposium organizers.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·DateApr 29, 2011
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.

Groundbreaking minimally invasive surgical videojournal launched by Mary Ann Liebert Inc.

The new videojournal complements the peer-reviewed monthly publication Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques, publishing fully peer-reviewed surgical and microinvasive demonstrations. The videos can be easily searched and shared to provide education and discussion among surgeons.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateApr 29, 2011

Measles outbreak underscores need for continued vigilance in health care settings

A recent measles outbreak in Tucson, Arizona, resulted in 14 confirmed cases and highlighted the need for continued vigilance in healthcare settings. The investigation revealed that the lack of electronic records documenting health care personnel's immunity status led to unnecessary vaccinations and furloughs, resulting in significant ...

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 29, 2011

UofL nursing faculty honored for race track clinic success

The University of Louisville School of Nursing has established a Kentucky Racing Health Services Center (KRHSC) to provide comprehensive health care services to track workers. KRHSC, led by Whitney Nash, serves about 2,500 patients annually, offering acute and chronic care as well as preventive services.

SourceUniversity of Louisville·DateApr 29, 2011
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Goddard building instrument to study reconnection

The Fast Plasma Instrument (FPI) will collect data on plasma in small regions using electron and ion spectrometers at a rate of 30 times per second. The mission aims to understand the control of magnetic reconnection, a complex phenomenon that releases enormous bursts of energy.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 29, 2011

Black cardiac arrest patients more likely to be admitted to hospitals with lowest survival rates

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that black cardiac arrest victims are less likely to survive when treated in hospitals with a high proportion of black patients. The study analyzed Medicare records and found that only 31% of black patients treated in such hospitals survived, compared to 46% in pr...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Heart Journal·DateApr 29, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Interval post-treatment mammogram not needed for breast cancer patients

A new study found that annual mammograms are as effective as interval post-treatment mammograms in detecting breast cancer recurrences. The research suggests eliminating the interval mammogram would save healthcare costs without negatively impacting patient outcomes, decreasing unnecessary biopsies and stress.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateApr 29, 2011

Researchers discover mechanism that could convert certain cells into insulin-making cells

UCLA researchers may have discovered a way to convert non-insulin-producing cells into functional beta cells, which could lead to a permanent solution for diabetes. The study found that chemical tags called methyl groups play a crucial role in maintaining cell identity and converting cells into insulin-secreting beta cells.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 29, 2011
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.

Investigational agent shows promise in reducing spread of prostate cancer

Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center report that a drug developed to treat Ewing's Sarcoma may also prevent human prostate cancer from spreading. The agent, YK-4 279, was found to inhibit functions of proteins responsible for aggressive cell behavior in prostate cancer cells.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2011

Research institute honors spaceflight pioneer Dr. Joseph Brady

Dr. Joseph V. Brady, a pioneer in spaceflight training, is being honored by the National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) with its Pioneer Award. NSBRI recognizes his role in launching early US human spaceflights and his contributions to the field of behavioral biology.

SourceNational Space Biomedical Research Institute·DateApr 29, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Gene therapy shows promise against age-related macular degeneration

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine developed a gene therapy approach that significantly reduces uncontrolled blood vessel growth and cell death typical of AMD, slowing its progression. The treatment uses CD59 to block the formation of 'membrane attack complex' in cell membranes.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2011

New software to support interest in extreme science

The University of Chicago's Flash Center has released a new version of supercomputer code, FLASH 4-alpha, with enhanced capabilities for simulating high-energy density physics experiments. This will enable researchers at universities and national facilities to investigate fundamental properties of matter under extreme conditions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateApr 29, 2011

MRI locates prostate cancer recurrence at extremely low PSA levels

A study found that a pelvic MRI scan can identify local recurrence in prostate cancer patients with rising or persistently elevated PSA levels. About one-third of these patients have a low PSA level of less than 1, making it possible to treat them with higher doses and potentially increasing cure rates.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateApr 29, 2011

Fish livers contain beneficial fatty acids

A new study confirms that fish livers contain long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial to health and have been found in high levels in certain species. The researchers highlight the nutritional properties of these organs and suggest that their use could reduce environmental pollution caused by discarding fish entrails.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Food Composition and Analysis·DateApr 28, 2011
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Mutations in single gene may have shaped human cerebral cortex

A recent study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics reveals that mutations in a single gene, centrosomal NDE1, may have played a key role in shaping the human cerebral cortex. The research found that these genetic variations were responsible for microcephaly, a condition characterized by abnormally small brains.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 28, 2011

Alcohol, mood and me (not you)

A new study uses long-term data to discover that the relationship between mood and alcohol use varies greatly among individuals. Adolescents with behavioral problems tend to drink more regardless of their mood, while those without behavioral issues exhibit a stronger link between depression and increased drinking when feeling down.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateApr 28, 2011

Video captures cellular 'workhorses' in action

Scientists at Yale University used fluorescent stains to create movies of cellular actin filaments disassembling, shedding light on their mysterious process. The study reveals the location of breaks along the filaments, crucial for cell movement and maintenance.

SourceYale University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 28, 2011

Study: Cotton swabs prove problematic for ear health

A study by Henry Ford Hospital found a direct association between cotton swab use and ruptured eardrum. In most cases, the rupture heals within two months without surgery, but in severe cases, surgical intervention is necessary to repair the eardrum.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateApr 28, 2011
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.

A tale of 2 lakes: One gives early warning signal for ecosystem collapse

Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have detected an unmistakable warning sign of an impending ecological catastrophe in a remote Wisconsin lake. The team, led by ecologist Stephen Carpenter, monitored vital signs across three years and found subtle changes in the system's natural patterns of variability, indicating a reg...

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2011

Reducing risk of renal failure in obese patients

A new study by the American Society of Nephrology found that ramipril lowers the risk of kidney disease progression in all weight groups, but shows a significant reduction in obese patients. Obese patients with kidney disease progress more quickly towards renal failure compared to non-obese patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 28, 2011
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.

Inverting a standard experiment sometimes produces different results

A recent study by Washington University in St. Louis scientist Younan Xia found that nanoparticles above certain sizes and weights settle, altering the concentration near cell surfaces and resulting in higher cellular uptake rates. This discovery may invalidate prior experiments on nanoparticle toxicity and dosimetry.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 28, 2011

Wayne State student awarded prestigious NSF graduate research fellowship

Wayne State doctoral student Keith Zabel has been awarded a prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship to study the impact of racial bias on mentorship. His research aims to determine if prejudice towards black mentors affects protégé outcomes, with potential implications for mentoring literature.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·DateApr 28, 2011

Use of costly breast cancer therapy strongly influenced by reimbursement policy

A study found that Medicare reimbursement policy significantly affects the use of costly breast cancer therapy, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). The analysis showed a sharp increase in IMRT usage and costs between 2001 and 2005, with billing rates varying by region and treatment setting.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 28, 2011
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

2 unsuspected proteins may hold the key to creating artificial chromosomes

Researchers discover CENP-C and CENP-T proteins, which are essential for kinetochore assembly and can potentially overcome the current obstacle of outfitting artificial chromosomes with kinetochores. This finding could lead to new genetic research tools and efficient creation of artificial human chromosomes.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateApr 28, 2011

Scientists detect early warning signal for ecosystem collapse

Researchers detected a warning signal of impending ecosystem collapse in a Wisconsin lake by monitoring its complex signals and biological community changes. The study provides evidence that radical change can be foreseen, potentially preventing ecological catastrophe.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateApr 28, 2011
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.

Taking safety personally

Psychologist E. Scott Geller advocates for a culture of safety that empowers workers to report hazards and encourages positive reinforcement over threats. He argues that root causes are complex and multi-factorial, and that listening to workers can lead to safer workplaces.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateApr 28, 2011