Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2011


Page 1 of 26

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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