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Science News for April 5, 2012


Diagnostic and invasive procedures common in women with breast-conserving surgery

A study found that over 10 years, 30.8% of women had diagnostic mammograms, while 61.5% underwent ipsilateral invasive procedures following BCS. The high rates may be due to concerns about recurrence, and the authors highlight the need for better prognostic biomarkers to minimize overtreatment.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Active older adults less likely to experience psychological distress

Researchers found that older adults who experienced moderate psychological distress were seven times more likely to experience functional limitation than those without distress. Engaging in physical activity can help achieve greater independence and positive health gains for active older adults.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 5, 2012

New lab mice cut search for genetic links to disease by more than a decade

A new population of lab mice developed by Tel Aviv University offers 1,000 genetic strains for research into human diseases. This increase in genetic diversity enables researchers to identify gene associations within two to three years, compared to the previous 10-15 year timeframe.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2012

Detecting breast cancer's fingerprint in a droplet of blood

A McGill University team has developed a new microarray technology that can accurately measure multiple proteins in a droplet of blood to detect breast cancer. The test, which uses a 'fingerprint' approach, showed promise in classifying patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

SourceMcGill University·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateApr 5, 2012

Study: More accurate method required for tracking skin cancer cases

Researchers found EPR to be 30-46% better at identifying nonmelanoma skin cancer cases compared to claims data. The study suggests using EPR as an alternative for effectively tracking these cases, potentially improving disease burden estimates.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateApr 5, 2012

Salk scientists redraw the blueprint of the body's biological clock

Researchers at Salk Institute find that two cellular switches play a crucial role in maintaining normal sleeping and eating cycles and metabolism. The discovery suggests a powerful link between circadian rhythms and metabolism, potentially leading to new treatments for disorders such as sleep problems, obesity, and diabetes.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers find evidence of banned antibiotics in poultry products

A joint study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Arizona State University found fluoroquinolone antibiotics in 8 of 12 feather meal samples, despite a 2005 FDA ban. The study suggests continued use of banned antibiotics in poultry production, contributing to antibiotic resistance.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Clinical news alert from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

A new study from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons analyzes current security measures on patients who have had a total hip replacement. The authors conclude that full body scanners can be a viable option for some travelers, but may cause delays and inconveniences.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateApr 5, 2012
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Analytical standards needed for 'reading' Pliocene bones

Researchers studying human origins face uncertainty due to lack of agreement on interpreting marks on fossil bones. Creating standards for analyzing Pliocene bones is crucial to determine when early hominids began using tools, a fundamental step in human evolution.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience·DateApr 5, 2012

Tiny hitchhikers attack cancer cells

Northwestern University scientists develop gold nanostars that target cancer cells' nucleus, releasing a killing drug. The nanoparticles are attracted by a protein on the surface and change shape after drug release, causing cell death.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Tackling dyslexia before kids learn to read

Researchers found a causal connection between early problems with visual attention and later dyslexia diagnoses. Visual attention deficits were more predictive of reading disorders than language abilities at the prereading stage.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 5, 2012

How to plaster the world, cheaply!

Researchers from the University of Leeds and CSIC-University of Granada have discovered a way to produce bassanite, a precursor phase to gypsum precipitation, at room temperature. This process could lead to significant cost savings in the production of plaster and potentially reduce environmental impacts related to gypsum disposal.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateApr 5, 2012

Study links Google search behavior to GDP

A quantitative analysis of Google search queries found a link between online behavior and real-world economic indicators, suggesting countries with higher GDP are more focused on the future. The study used Google Trends data from over 45 billion searches in 45 countries to calculate a 'future orientation index' that correlates with GDP.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 5, 2012

US students need new way of learning science

A group of scientists and educators has proposed a new approach to teaching science in US schools, emphasizing eight fundamental concepts and the practice of inquiry. The 8+1 Science concept aims to help students understand how scientific laws and principles apply across different disciplines.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Psychological testing may predict success in soccer

A new study from Karolinska Institutet suggests that measuring executive functions can predict a player's success in soccer. The researchers found a correlation between high scores in cognitive tests and better performance on the pitch, supporting the idea that game intelligence is not just innate but can be developed.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 5, 2012

Study shows unified process of evolution in bacteria and sexual eukaryotes

Researchers found that gene sweeps can sweep through populations on their own, similar to sexual eukaryotes. This suggests a unified method of evolution for prokaryotes and eukaryotes, challenging traditional views of species classification.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering·JournalScience·DateApr 5, 2012

New studies highlight setbacks and advances in global malaria fight

A recent study published in the Lancet found a critical point in global efforts to control and eliminate malaria due to artemisinin resistance in western Thailand. Researchers identified a major region of the malaria parasite genome associated with artemisinin resistance, raising hope for effective molecular markers to monitor its spread.

SourceTexas Biomedical Research Institute·DateApr 5, 2012

Copper chains: Study reveals Earth's deep-seated hold on copper

A new study by Rice University scientists found that nature conspires to keep most of Earth's copper buried dozens of miles below ground. The researchers examined arc magmas and discovered sulfides, which are minerals containing reduced forms of sulfur bonded to metals like copper.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

From herd immunity and complacency to group panic: How vaccine scares unfold

A new model based on game theory and social learning can predict the patterns of vaccine scares, explaining why vaccine uptake takes time to recover after a scare. The model highlights the interplay between disease dynamics and vaccination behavior, suggesting that herd immunity can lead to complacency among unvaccinated individuals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 5, 2012
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Confirming carbon's climate effects

Scientists compiled core samples from around the world to reconstruct global temperature and find a strong correlation between rising CO2 and warming at the end of the ice age. CO2 trails Antarctic warming but precedes global temperature change, supporting its role in climate change.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2012

Controlling quantum tunneling with light

Researchers at University of Cambridge use light to guide electrons through a barrier, creating new particles that interact strongly. This breakthrough has potential to lead to practical devices using quantum mechanics visible to the eye.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateApr 5, 2012

Researchers assess radiation exposure in obese patients

A new study published in Physics in Medicine & Biology found that obese patients receive up to 62% more radiation during CT scans than normal-weight patients. This increase is due to excess fat tissue, which can reduce the quality of medical images unless adjusted accordingly.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateApr 5, 2012

Use of common pesticide linked to bee colony collapse

A new study from Harvard School of Public Health finds a link between imidacloprid and Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) in honeybees. The researchers discovered that even low levels of the pesticide can cause hive collapse, highlighting the potential impact on agriculture.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Shifting sands

Researchers developed a new model that predicts the flow of granular materials like sand, considering the size of individual grains. The model improves on existing continuum models by accounting for grain size effects, which were previously overlooked.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 5, 2012

Breast cancer risk after false-positive mammography results

A study found that women with false-positive mammography results have a statistically significant higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who test negative. The long-term excess risk underscores the need for regular screenings despite potential anxiety from false-positive experiences.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2012

Beanballs and the psychology of revenge

A study by Brown University psychologist Fiery Cushman found that 44% of baseball fans approved of a pitcher targeting an innocent player to avenge a teammate. The researchers suggest this 'vicarious punishment' may be driven by honor or deterrence, rather than moral responsibility.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Most women on dialysis may experience sexual problems

A new study found that 84% of female dialysis patients experienced sexual problems, which are often overlooked by clinicians. The study also highlighted the impact of various factors such as age, education level, and presence of depression on sexual dysfunction in these patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 5, 2012

Normal triglyceride levels in people of African descent may hinder diagnosis of metabolic syndrome

People of African descent may be at risk for cardiovascular disease despite normal triglyceride levels, highlighting a paradox known as the TG paradox. Researchers call for further study and development of new screening guidelines to better identify metabolic syndrome in this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMetabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders·DateApr 5, 2012

Mental health may play a role in dialysis patients' survival

A study found that dialysis patients with deteriorating mental health have a higher risk of developing heart problems and dying prematurely. The research suggests that addressing kidney disease patients' mental health may help prevent heart complications and even death.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 5, 2012

Big advance against cystic fibrosis

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have created human lung surface tissue in a dish, containing the delta-508 and G551D mutations responsible for most CF cases. This breakthrough enables drug screening on genuine human cells, paving the way for a potential therapy to control cystic fibrosis.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Women cannot rewind the 'biological clock'

A recent study by Yale University researchers highlights the misconception that women can easily have a child at an advanced age using assisted reproductive technologies. While ART is available for women over 40, pregnancy success rates are limited and complications increase with age.

SourceYale University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateApr 5, 2012

Misperception of weight is an important barrier to weight loss

A recent study found that over 30% of college applicants couldn't report their weight accurately, with men being more likely to underestimate their weight than women. Identifying weight problems early on is crucial for preventing health issues like heart disease and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalBody Image·DateApr 5, 2012

URI oceanographer leading effort to enlist commercial ships to collect ocean data

A University of Rhode Island oceanographer is leading an effort to partner with the global shipping industry to collect detailed ocean data on commercial vessels. The proposed OceanScope initiative aims to fill observational deficiencies in the ocean, particularly below the surface, where satellites cannot measure properties.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalEos·DateApr 5, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Physicians less likely to prescribe antidepressants to minorities, Medicaid patients

A US study has found that physicians are less likely to prescribe antidepressants to African-American and Hispanic patients with major depressive disorder. The study also reveals significant variations in prescription patterns based on patient age, payment source, and physician ownership status.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine·DateApr 5, 2012

Marc travel awards announced for IMMUNOLOGY 2012

The FASEB MARC Program has announced the travel award recipients for IMMUNOLOGY 2012, supporting underrepresented minority students and postdoctorates in biomedical research. This year's 25 awards total $41,250, aiming to increase diversity in the field.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 5, 2012

Manipulating the immune system to develop 'next-gen' vaccines

Researchers have identified a protein on the surface of dendritic cells that recognizes damaged cells, enabling the development of more specific and effective vaccines. This discovery could lead to vaccines that are 100-1000 times less in amount and have fewer side effects.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalImmunity·DateApr 5, 2012
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

How to make high-end perfumes without whale barf

University of British Columbia researchers identified a gene in balsam fir trees that can facilitate the production of plant-based fixatives and scents, potentially replacing whale barf-derived ambergris. This discovery could lead to more sustainable and cost-effective production methods for high-end perfumes.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 5, 2012

Recovery from propofol anesthesia may be sped by use of common stimulant

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that methylphenidate can reverse general anesthesia with propofol, showing its potential to wake patients up faster. This breakthrough could make general anesthesia safer and more efficient, especially in operating rooms where propofol is commonly used.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnesthesiology·DateApr 5, 2012

How to make customers happy

Researchers found that customers' perceptions of call center performance are not influenced by location or accent, but rather by the agent's customer orientation. The study recommends companies prioritize this aspect when recruiting staff, regardless of location.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalInternational Business Review·DateApr 5, 2012

New index identifies periods when global stock markets might decline

Researchers developed a 'fragility index' to measure likelihood of global stock market losses by identifying periods with high risk exposures across multiple countries. The index shows an increasing probability of a global draw-down when systemic risk is high, resulting in more extreme stock movements.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Financial Economics·DateApr 5, 2012
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.

Risk of suicide and fatal heart attack immediately following a cancer diagnosis

A new study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that cancer patients are at a significantly increased risk of suicide and cardiovascular death during the first week following a diagnosis. The risk decreases rapidly over time but is most pronounced for those with poor-prognosis cancers.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 5, 2012

New iPad, iPhone app helps mariners avoid endangered right whales

The Whale Alert app provides real-time information on right whale sightings, allowing mariners to navigate around areas of high risk. The app is developed by a collaboration of government agencies, academic institutions, and conservation groups to protect critically endangered North Atlantic right whales.

SourceNOAA Headquarters·DateApr 5, 2012

Which plants will survive droughts, climate change?

A UCLA study resolves decades-old debates on plant drought tolerance, finding that saltier cell sap is key to survival. The team's discovery allows for predictions of which species can thrive in dry environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalEcology Letters·DateApr 5, 2012
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.