Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for April 25, 2011


Cholesterol drugs may improve blood flow after stroke

Researchers found that patients already taking statins experienced greater restoration of blood flow to the brain compared to those not on statins. This could lead to better outcomes for stroke patients and potentially improved recovery rates.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalStroke·DateApr 25, 2011

Streptococci and E. coli continue to put newborns at risk for sepsis

A nationwide study found that group B streptococci are the leading cause of early-onset sepsis in full-term infants, while Escherichia coli is a common pathogen in preterm infants. The study also highlights missed opportunities for prevention due to inadequate screening and electronic medical record linking.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateApr 25, 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.

Study: Reasonable quantities of red pepper may help curb appetite

Research from Purdue University found that consuming red pepper can manage appetite and burn more calories after a meal, especially for individuals who do not consume the spice regularly. Red pepper consumption increased core body temperature and reduced hunger for fatty, salty, and sweet foods in non-regular consumers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateApr 25, 2011

Snooze control: Fatigue, air traffic and safety

A recent surge in reports of air traffic controllers falling asleep on the job highlights the need for drastic change to improve safety. Researchers suggest that changes such as extended breaks between shifts and mandatory rest periods could mitigate the problem.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·DateApr 25, 2011
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.

Zeroing in on the elusive green LED

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method for manufacturing green-colored LEDs with significantly enhanced light extraction, internal efficiency, and light output. This breakthrough brings the team closer to their goal of developing high-performance, low-cost green LEDs.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 25, 2011

Narcotic pain relief drug overdose deaths a national epidemic

In 2007, US unintentional drug poisoning deaths reached epidemic proportions, with prescription opioid overdoses driving the crisis. Opioid pain medications are involved in more overdose deaths than heroin and cocaine combined, according to a CDC report.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateApr 25, 2011

Catastrophic amphibian declines have multiple causes, no simple solution

Researchers conclude that amphibian population declines are complex and multifaceted, driven by various natural forces and human activities such as habitat destruction, climate change, and disease. This understanding highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address the crisis and avoid exacerbating the problem.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011

OSA launches new journal, Optical Materials Express

The new journal, Optical Materials Express, launched by OSA, explores the intersection of optics and materials science, offering rapid online publication and open-access features. The inaugural issue includes research on metamaterials, microlasers, and chiral optical materials.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateApr 25, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

$4.8 million study will fight child obesity in California

A $4.8 million federal grant will help UC Davis discover ways to maintain healthy weights among Mexican-heritage children in California. The 'Ninos Sanos, Familia Sana' study aims to provide practical tools and education for families to adopt healthy eating habits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateApr 25, 2011

Lollipops with side effects

A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers discovered that ants can recognize the distinctive body odor of caterpillars after they consume sugary secretions from wild tobacco plant trichomes. The caterpillars develop a unique odor profile, which is then detected by predatory ants, making them easier to locate and feed on.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011

Study finds keys to working with Latino church to fight domestic abuse

A new study from North Carolina State University identifies cultural factors that social-service providers and others need to understand to form effective partnerships with Latino church leaders in addressing domestic violence. These factors include the importance of acknowledging traditional male and female roles in Latino cultures, a...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateApr 25, 2011
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.

Beetle bling: Researchers discover optical secrets of 'metallic' beetles

Beetle researchers have discovered that the unique structural arrangements of exo-skeletal chitin layers in their elytra create a metallic appearance by reflecting light through different refractive indices. This phenomenon enables the beetles to produce striking gold and silver colors, similar to those found in precious metals.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateApr 25, 2011

New perspectives on ion selectivity

Contributors from different disciplines discuss ion selectivity using crystal structures, electrophysiology, and computational methods. The series provides an ongoing forum for experts to discuss scientific questions and controversies.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateApr 25, 2011

Pelvic organs given the slip by the protein fibulin-5

Researchers have identified a key role for fibulin-5 in preventing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) by facilitating elastic fiber assembly and inhibiting MMP9 activity. This discovery may lead to nonsurgical treatments targeting elastic fiber-degrading proteins.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 25, 2011

A study analyzes the actual role of R+D's in patents

Researchers developed econometric models to study relationship between R&D and patents, estimating significant nonlinear effects of unobservable innovations. The quality of patents affects the impact of R&D on future innovations, with high-cited patents showing stronger effects.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalJournal of Econometrics·DateApr 25, 2011
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

JCI table of contents: April 25, 2011

A team of researchers has identified a key role for the protein fibulin-5 in preventing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in mice. Fibulin-5 prevents POP by facilitating the assembly of normal elastic fibers and inhibiting the activity of MMP9, a protein that degrades these fibers. Increased levels of MMP-9 were found in vaginal tissue sampl...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 25, 2011

MIT researchers use virus to improve solar-cell efficiency

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel method to enhance solar-cell efficiency by utilizing viruses to assemble carbon nanotubes on a surface. This technique has shown significant improvements in power-conversion efficiency, with enhancements up to 10.6 percent.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 25, 2011

Fighting HIV in South Africa should focus on couples, study finds

A new study in South Africa found that HIV-positive individuals take almost as much risk in their sexual behavior when they know their partner is HIV-negative or don't know their status, as when they know their partner is already infected. Couples-based HIV counseling is recommended to address this issue and reduce transmission.

SourceBrown University·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateApr 25, 2011

Gladstone scientist makes key innovations in stem-cell technology

A Gladstone scientist has made two significant stem-cell discoveries, creating powerful new approaches for using stem cells and stem-cell-like technology. Dr. Sheng Ding reveals novel and safer methods for transforming embryonic stem cells into large numbers of brain cells and adult skin cells into neural stem cells.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011

Third brother wins gold at NJIT

Faizan Naqvi, a junior at NJIT, wins Goldwater Scholarship for research in solar physics. He is the third Naqvi brother to receive the award, following brothers Mohammad and Salman who also won Goldwater Scholarships.

SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·DateApr 25, 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.

TB discovery paves the way for drugs that prevent lung destruction

Scientists have identified MMP-1 as a key enzyme responsible for destroying lung tissue in tuberculosis, leading to the development of drugs that can prevent this damage. The findings suggest that existing MMP inhibitor drugs may be effective in reducing deaths from TB.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 25, 2011

Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce effectiveness of SSRI antidepressants

Researchers at Rockefeller University found that anti-inflammatory drugs decrease the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in treating depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The study suggests that this may be due to the overlap between depression, inflammation, and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011

HIV infection may be a risk factor for heart failure

A study found that HIV infection is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, even after adjusting for traditional risk factors. Patients with high baseline HIV-1 RNA levels also showed a higher risk of heart failure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 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.

Researchers identify novel pathophysiologic mechanism responsible for autoimmunity

The study reveals that human proteins with Dermatan Sulfate affinity can become autoantigens, driving autoreactive B-1a cell responses and autoantibody production. Researchers identified over 200 autoantigens, including novel ones, which could lead to better diagnostics and personalized treatment for autoimmune diseases.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 25, 2011

Scientists create stable, self-renewing neural stem cells

Researchers at University of California - San Diego School of Medicine and colleagues report a game-changing advance in stem cell science: the creation of long-term, self-renewing neural precursor cells from human embryonic stem cells that can be directed to become many types of neuron. The new process promises to have broad applicatio...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011
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.

Leader beliefs about followers impact company success

A study by UC Riverside finds that managers' conceptions of employees can be self-fulfilling prophecies affecting job satisfaction, relationships, and trust. Leaders with positive conceptions tend to treat their employees positively, while those with negative conceptions have a negative impact on followers.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateApr 25, 2011

Increased computer use by adolescents cause for concern

Researchers found a strong association between high computer use and engagement in illicit drug use, drunkenness, and unprotected sex among adolescents. High computer use was associated with a 50% increased risk of engaging in these behaviors.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateApr 25, 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.

Tai chi may improve quality of life in chronic heart failure patients

A study found that tai chi significantly improved mood and exercise self-efficacy in chronic heart failure patients without affecting physical differences. Researchers suggest tai chi as a safe alternative to conventional exercise training for improving daily life.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 2011

Researchers report widespread use of medications among pregnant women

A recent study found that medication use among pregnant women is widespread and varies by socioeconomic status, maternal age, race/ethnicity, and state of residence. The study also revealed a significant increase in the use of prescription medications during the first trimester, with antidepressants showing dramatic increases.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateApr 25, 2011
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.

Higher levels of social activity decrease the risk of cognitive decline

Research at Rush University Medical Center found that frequent social activity may help prevent or delay cognitive decline in old age. Socially active participants showed reduced rates of cognitive decline compared to less active individuals.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateApr 25, 2011

ACC/AHA issue first clinical guidance for controlling high blood pressure in the elderly

The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released the first expert consensus document to help clinicians reduce hypertension risks in older adults. The guidelines recommend targeted blood pressure control measures, including medication selection, dose titration, and lifestyle changes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 25, 2011
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Study shows how mosquitoes handle the heat of a hot blood meal

Female mosquitoes produce heat shock proteins to protect themselves from stress caused by hot blood meals, helping them digest the meal and maintain egg production. Tests on other insects also showed a similar response.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011

'Going off the grid' helps some bacteria hide from antibiotics

Researchers at Texas A&M University discovered that certain bacteria can render themselves dormant in response to antibiotic stress, degrading internal antitoxins and damaging metabolic processes. This 'sleeping' mechanism allows the bacteria to avoid antibiotics, but could potentially be awakened by a complementary chemical.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 25, 2011

Conservation of coastal dunes is threatened by poorly designed infrastructure

Human impact on coastal dunes is a significant threat to their conservation in Spain, particularly due to poorly designed infrastructure such as car parks, boardwalks and inadequate access points. A study found that these factors contribute to the instability of the dune systems, even in protected areas.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Coastal Research·DateApr 25, 2011
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.

ASPO announces 2011 award winners in pediatric otolaryngology research

The American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) recognizes outstanding achievements in pediatric otolaryngology research through its annual awards. This year's winners include Yuemeng Dai for his work on involving hemangiomas and Stephanie Maturo for her research on intraoperative laryngeal electromyography in children with voc...

SourceAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateApr 25, 2011

Targeted agent selumetinib shows promise in biliary cancer

A phase II study of selumetinib has shown promising results in patients with advanced biliary cancer, with significant tumor shrinkage and weight gain observed. The drug blocked the MEK protein, which is often damaged in biliary cancer cells, suggesting a new standard of care may be established

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 25, 2011

Phage hunting students publish in PLoS ONE

Twelve Washington University students isolated and characterized 18 novel phages, including two from St. Louis, in a research project supported by the Science Education Alliance. The findings provide insights into genome architecture and evolution of mycobacteriophages.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 25, 2011

Novel microorganism 'Nitrososphaera viennensis' isolated

Researchers have isolated a new species of ammonia oxidizing archaeon from soil, named Nitrososphaera viennensis. The discovery has significant implications for agriculture, as ammonia oxidation affects nitrogen availability for plants and groundwater nitrate levels.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2011
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Study examines changes in medical students’ views about internal medicine careers

A recent study examines changes in medical students' views about internal medicine careers from 1990 to 2007. The proportion of students planning general internal medicine training declined, while those attracted by primary care physicians' appeal increased. Bolder reform is needed to improve the educational pipeline and practice of ge...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 25, 2011

Protein levels could signal that a child will develop diabetes

Georgia Health Sciences University researchers are exploring whether low levels of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) can identify children at risk for developing type 1 diabetes. They also plan to investigate using IL-1 inhibitors to prevent the disease.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 25, 2011

Port Valdez invertebrates stabilized 26 years after quake

In a 26-year study, marine invertebrates in Port Valdez have stabilized to resemble an undisturbed glacial fjord. This recovery was facilitated by the dominant species Capitellidae, known for their opportunistic nature.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalMarine Environmental Research·DateApr 25, 2011

Olsen, Drake, Schoenwolf receive highest honors from anatomy society

Bjorn R. Olsen, Richard Drake, and Gary C. Schoenwolf received the highest awards from the American Association of Anatomists for their outstanding contributions to anatomical sciences, with Olsen receiving the Scientific Achievement Award, Drake the Distinguished Educator Award, and Schoenwolf the Exemplary Service Award.

SourceAmerican Association for Anatomy·DateApr 25, 2011

Wild hogs: Researchers examine impact of feral pigs in eastern N.C.

Feral pigs in eastern North Carolina have been found to host significant numbers of parasites that can be transmitted to humans, including Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella. The study's findings highlight the potential health risk posed by feral pigs to both domestic swine and humans.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateApr 25, 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.

Radar shows promise for detecting concussions in athletes and soldiers

Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a radar system that can detect concussions by analyzing a person's gait pattern. The system, which is faster and less intrusive than existing techniques, uses a 10.5 GHz continuous wave radar to identify anomalies in an individual's walk. This could help coaches and commanders quickly decide i...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateApr 25, 2011

Rice-born detector finds heaviest antimatter

Physicists at Rice University have detected the heaviest antimatter particle ever observed, antihelium-4, using a time-of-flight detector designed at the institution. The discovery provides new insights into the conditions of the early universe and the existence of antimatter galaxies.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 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.