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Science News for May 10, 2011


Genes, not race, determine donor kidney survival

Researchers found that kidneys from donors with specific coding changes in the apolipoprotein L1 gene had shorter survival rates after transplant. The study suggests that genetic risk variants in kidney donors can predict graft loss and may lead to improved outcomes for both recipients and donors.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateMay 10, 2011

Lessons from major heart trial need implementation

A JAMA study of 500,000 heart stent patients found that clinically indicated medical therapy was lost in translation after its publication. Fewer than half of all patients received appropriate treatment with common cardiac drugs before and after their stenting procedure.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalJAMA·DateMay 10, 2011

Microbubble-delivered combination therapy eradicates prostate cancer in vivo

Researchers combine Sabutoclax with viral gene therapy to prevent tumor growth in prostate-cancer-prone mice, offering a novel approach to treating advanced prostate cancer. The study's findings suggest that this combination therapy could be effective in other cancers and pave the way for personalized medicine.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 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.

Pairing quantum dots with fullerenes for nanoscale photovoltaics

Researchers develop surface-based assembly method to produce promising power sources with controlled electron transfer rates. By varying particle size and linker length, they enhance electron transfer rate and suppress fluctuations, leading to stable charge generation.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMay 10, 2011

Darkness stifles reproduction of surface-dwelling fish

A study found that Atlantic molly females from regular surface streams have difficulty reproducing in dark conditions and are more prone to stress-induced bacterial columnaris disease. The research suggests that permanent darkness severely hampers reproduction in these fish, highlighting the importance of light for their survival.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 10, 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.

An enigmatic problem in marine ecology uncovered

A new study reveals that the duration of open water periods has no relationship with the geographic coverage of marine species, contradicting previous assumptions. Ocean currents allow fish larvae to quickly spread their distribution worldwide.

SourceDalhousie University·JournalEcography·DateMay 10, 2011

Virginia Tech announces football helmet ratings for reducing concussion risk

The Virginia Tech study provides a comprehensive rating system for adult football helmets, with the Riddell Revolution Speed earning the highest '5-star' rating. Five helmets received the '4-star' rating, including Schutt ION 4D and Xenith X1, which showed significant reductions in concussion risk.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 10, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

15 eggs is the perfect number needed to achieve a live birth after IVF

A study analyzing over 400,000 IVF cycles in the UK found that aiming for 15 eggs retrieved per cycle maximizes live birth rates while minimizing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome risk. The number of eggs above 20 leads to a decline in live birth rates.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMay 10, 2011

A comforting swan song

A new study published in Music and Medicine found that palliative care patients experience enhanced pain relief, comfort, relaxation, and mood through a unique music therapy project. The project, led by Concordia University's Sandi Curtis, combined students with professional musicians to provide individualized music therapy sessions.

SourceConcordia University·JournalMusic and Medicine·DateMay 10, 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.

Pharmaceutical advances offer lower risk and reduced infection

Research at DDW 2011 shows that patients taking clopidogrel after polyp removal have a relatively low risk of bleeding. Teduglutide increases intestinal absorption, decreasing dependence on intravenous fluid in those with short bowel syndrome. Rifaximin reduces death rates in advanced liver cirrhosis and ascites patients.

SourceDigestive Disease Week·DateMay 10, 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.

Taking additional selenium will not reduce cancer risk

A Cochrane Systematic Review of randomized controlled clinical trials found no protective effect against non-melanoma skin cancer and prostate cancer. Researchers also noted potential toxic effects from long-term selenium intake.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMay 10, 2011

Wayne State researchers find new way to examine major depressive disorder in children

Researchers at Wayne State University have found a new method to identify children with major depressive disorder (MDD), setting them apart from both healthy children and those with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Cortical thickness in the brain was used as a key factor, revealing distinct differences between MDD patients and heal...

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateMay 10, 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.

As good as gold

Researchers have discovered that pyrite nanoparticles from hydrothermal vents are a significant source of iron for ocean life, with the ability to travel long distances and form a potentially important food source. These nanoparticles are dispersed into the ocean rather than falling to the bottom due to their small size.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 10, 2011

Framework convention on global health needed

A global health agreement is necessary to clarify national and global responsibilities for health and close major health inequities, say researchers from Georgetown University. The Joint Action and Learning Initiative on National and Global Responsibilities for Health aims to create a political space for such an agreement.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 10, 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.

No safety in numbers for moths and butterflies

Scientists investigate how a virus affecting the Indian meal moth impacts its host populations in size, with potential to inform better pest management strategies. The research could lead to improved techniques for controlling invasive species and pests.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateMay 10, 2011

Getting along with co-workers may prolong life, researchers find

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that people with good peer support systems at work may live longer than those without. The study also showed that control and decision authority had a different effect on mortality rates for men and women.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateMay 10, 2011

The sweet mysteries of the nervous system

A new antibody called 5750 has been developed by researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum to label specific stem cells in the nervous system. The antibody targets a sugar residue on the cell surface called LewisX, which is found on different types of neural stem cells.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 10, 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.

RNA spurs melanoma development

Research reveals that long non-coding RNA SPRY4-IT1 promotes cellular survival and invasion in melanoma cells, suggesting its potential as an early biomarker. The study also found reduced levels of another non-coding RNA, miR-211, in melanoma cells.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 10, 2011

Zebrafish models identify high-risk genetic features in leukemia patients

Researchers identified previously undiscovered high-risk genetic features in T-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (T-ALL) using zebrafish models. These genetic characteristics can predict which patients are more likely to experience aggressive forms of the disease that recur after treatment or do not respond to therapy.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalOncogene·DateMay 10, 2011

For hearing parts of brain, deafness reorganizes sensory inputs, not behavioral function

A study by researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University finds that deaf animals' brains reorganize sensory inputs to preserve their behavioral functions. The research provides insight into brain reorganization following sensory loss, potentially informing the development of more effective rehabilitative medicine for deaf patients.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2011
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Proton dripping tests a fundamental force in nature

Scientists have discovered an exotic nucleus called fluorine-14, comprising nine protons and five neutrons, which exists for a fraction of a second before releasing a proton. The team's experiments were enabled by supercomputers and advanced simulation codes, including the Universal Nuclear Energy Density Functional (UNEDF) project.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateMay 10, 2011

Professor: Pain of ostracism can be deep, long-lasting

Ostracism can lead to extended periods of pain and negative experiences due to its impact on human needs like belonging and self-esteem. The pain caused by social exclusion can linger for a long time if coping mechanisms are not effective, leading to depression, alienation, and feelings of unworthiness.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateMay 10, 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.

Wild animals age too

A Spanish-Mexican research team found that wild birds exhibit ageing in terms of reproductive capacity and DNA damage. As males age, their germline becomes damaged, increasing the risk of genetic illnesses in their offspring.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMay 10, 2011

Tiny talk on a barnacle's back

Researchers at UC San Diego and Scripps Institute of Oceanography used matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry to reveal multiplex microbial interactions. The technique allowed them to see competition for resources, secretion of molecules altering neighboring organisms' phenotypes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 10, 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.

Study: Lowering cost doesn't increase hearing aid purchases

A new study by Henry Ford Health shows that patients with mild hearing loss are motivated to purchase hearing aids based on factors other than cost, including perception of need and insurance coverage. Despite significant advancements in hearing aid technology and comfort, many adults with mild hearing loss do not acquire devices.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalThe Hearing Journal·DateMay 10, 2011

Red mate, blue mate: Study says married couples select on basis of politics

A new study reveals that American married couples often choose partners with similar political views, resulting in a strong political bond from the early years of marriage. This 'sorting' behavior may contribute to polarization and reinforce ideological divisions within families.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalThe Journal of Politics·DateMay 10, 2011

Research maps out trade-offs between deer and timber

A study in Michigan's Upper Peninsula reveals that deer are outcompeting saplings for resources, hindering regeneration of sugar maple trees. The research suggests a trade-off between deer populations and timber harvesting, with areas in the south facing severe sapling shortages.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalForest Ecology and Management·DateMay 10, 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.

High-tech approach uses lights, action and camera to scrutinize fresh produce

The USDA has developed a cutting-edge optical scanning system that uses two different kinds of lighting and a sophisticated camera to inspect fresh produce items. The system can detect defects and contaminants, such as cuts, bruises, and specks of fertilizer, in a single image.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalSensing and Instrumentation for Food Quality and Safety·DateMay 10, 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.

Coffee reduces breast cancer risk

A recent study published in Breast Cancer Research found that coffee consumption is associated with a lower incidence of ER-negative breast cancer. The research, which adjusted for other lifestyle factors, suggests that moderate coffee consumption may offer protective effects against this type of breast cancer.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateMay 10, 2011

Twinning is winning: Moms of twins live longer

A new study from the University of Utah found that mothers of twins tend to be healthier and live longer than singleton mothers, with stronger women being more likely to naturally conceive twins. The research analyzed data from over 58,000 Utah women born between 1807 and 1899, revealing a link between twin birth and longevity.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateMay 10, 2011

Cephalalgia Award Lecture winner announced

The Cephalalgia Award has been won by A Stankewitz and colleagues for their groundbreaking paper on a new trigemino-nociceptive stimulation model for event-related fMRI. The study offers high spatial resolution and potential to advance headache science.

SourceSAGE·DateMay 10, 2011

Genetic defects hold clues to risk for sudden cardiac death

Researchers have identified genetic mutations that predict risk of sudden cardiac death and cardiac events in patients with Long QT syndrome. The findings could lead to personalized treatment approaches for individuals with the condition, who are often at risk but may not exhibit typical clinical symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 10, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.