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Science News for April 8, 2011


NIH researchers identify cause and new treatment for common recurrent fever in children

Researchers identified a new treatment for periodic fever syndrome, targeting the body's immune response. The therapy shows promise in reducing fever and inflammation symptoms without increasing flare-ups, differing from current corticosteroid treatment. A larger clinical trial is planned to validate the findings.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2011

Dopamine controls formation of new brain cells

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that dopamine controls the formation of new neurons in the adult brain by acting as a switch for stem cells. The study used salamanders, which can recover from Parkinson's-like conditions, to understand how dopamine regulates neural regeneration.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 8, 2011

'Naked' penguins baffle experts

Researchers have observed a rise in 'naked' penguin chicks with feather-loss disorder in both Argentina and South Africa, causing concern among scientists. The disorder is thought to be related to increased energy spent on thermoregulation, potentially linked to pathogens, thyroid disorders, or nutrient imbalances.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalWaterbirds·DateApr 8, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Are invasive plants a threat to native biodiversity? It depends on the spatial scale

A meta-analysis found that invasive plant species cause large losses in biodiversity at small scales but have a negligible impact at broader scales. This contradicts the common view of invasive plants as major threats to native biodiversity. The study suggests that the effect of invasive plants on native species extinctions decreases w...

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateApr 8, 2011

This year's Johan Skytte Prize winners announced

Ronald Inglehart and Pippa Norris awarded for their systematic investigation into human values and value change impacting political behavior, with a focus on religion, gender equality, and global media influence. The prize recognizes their groundbreaking work in highlighting the importance of citizens' values in shaping societal life.

SourceUppsala University·DateApr 8, 2011

Breast-cancer awareness now in national consciousness

New research from the University of Oregon found that breast cancer awareness campaigns have reduced fluctuations in diagnoses, with most cases now linked to routine screenings. The study suggests that increased awareness and advocacy efforts have led to better screening rates among American women.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of Health Economics·DateApr 8, 2011

What sea squirts can teach us about the heart

Researchers study sea squirts' simple body structure to unravel complex mechanisms of heart formation, shedding light on GATA's role in congenital heart defects. Disrupting GATA function independently in the developing gut preserves heart cell identity, while disrupting it in heart precursor cells causes limbo-like state.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateApr 8, 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.

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.

Nanoparticles increase biofuel performance

A new study reveals that alumina nanoparticles enhance biodiesel combustion, increasing fuel efficiency while decreasing nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide emissions. Researchers are now exploring other types of nanoparticles for potential engine lubrication and cooling systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateApr 8, 2011

Americans' views of college access varied, often inflated

A study by Indiana University sociologists found that Americans have varying beliefs about college access, with some perceiving minority and low-income students as having more opportunities than middle-class students. Qualified students from low-income families were perceived as having less opportunity than other groups.

SourceIndiana University·DateApr 8, 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.

Scripps Research scientists find 'dual switch' regulates fat formation

Researchers identify protein TLE3 as a key regulator of fat cell development, which can be targeted to improve adipose tissue function and alleviate symptoms of diabetes. By understanding how fat cells form, scientists aim to develop better treatments for obesity and related disorders.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 8, 2011

Cookies or careers?

A recent study published in Gender & Society reveals that scouting manuals steer girls towards arts and crafts while discouraging scientific pursuits. Meanwhile, boys are encouraged to pursue careers like engineering and science. The findings highlight the perpetuation of gender stereotypes in scouting organizations.

SourceSociologists for Women in Society·JournalGender & Society·DateApr 8, 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.

A world first: The discovery of a common genetic cause of autism and epilepsy

A new gene, SYN1, has been identified as a predisposing factor for both autism and epilepsy in individuals from Quebec. Mutations in this gene lead to impaired synaptic function, causing communication between neurons to break down. This study provides a key to understanding the comorbidity of these devastating diseases.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateApr 8, 2011

Penn research advances understanding of lead selenide nanowires

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have made significant progress in controlling the characteristics of lead selenide nanowires, a promising material for semiconductors. By manipulating the exposure to oxygen and chemical hydrazine, they can alter the conductive properties between p-type and n-type devices.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 8, 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.

Newly merged black hole eagerly shreds stars

A newly merged black hole can be detected by observing the tidal disruption of surrounding stars, which will provide accurate distances and precise sky coordinates. This could lead to a better understanding of dark energy and Einstein's general theory of relativity.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 8, 2011

Free software makes computer mouse easier for people with disabilities

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed two free software solutions to make computer mice easier for people with motor disabilities. The Pointing Magnifier combines area cursor visual and motor magnification, allowing users to acquire targets faster. In contrast, the Angle Mouse adjusts movement angles to make target...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateApr 8, 2011

Outsmarting cancer cells: SLU scientists learn how they spread

Researchers identified CRSBP-1 ligand molecules that bind to receptors on lymphatic vessels, gaining entry and facilitating cancer cell spread. This mechanism can be targeted to prevent metastases and treat edema, strengthening immune responses.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateApr 8, 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.

Late diagnosis is major factor in hospital cancer deaths

A study found that late cancer diagnosis is a major factor in hospital cancer deaths in Northern Ireland, where over half of patients prefer to die at home. The study highlights the importance of early recognition of cancer symptoms and improving community services to support patients' wishes.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·DateApr 8, 2011

IPF drug fails in new trial

A new study found that taking bosentan did not improve health outcomes for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Researchers suggest a subset of IPF patients may still benefit from the drug, but further studies are needed to confirm this.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 8, 2011
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.

Digestive experts grade treatment options for inflammatory bowel disease

The American College of Gastroenterology published a new evidence-based systematic review on the management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), grading treatment options for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. A comprehensive meta-analysis highlights the importance of diet, gut microbiome, and immune system in IBD causes.

SourceAmerican College of Gastroenterology·DateApr 8, 2011