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Science News for August 8, 2005


Micro RNAs play role in egg making

Researchers have discovered that microRNAs are involved in the process of oogenesis, a complex regulatory mechanism controlling protein abundance. The findings suggest that miRNA dysfunction may contribute to certain forms of infertility.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2005

New Northwestern Memorial study demonstrates significant burden staph infections place on hospitals

A new study estimates that S. aureus infections cause an average of 292,045 hospital stays per year, resulting in 3 times longer stays, triple the total charges, and five times higher risk of in-hospital death compared to non-infected patients. The study also found that antibiotic-resistant strains are becoming increasingly common.

SourceNorthwestern Memorial HealthCare·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateAug 8, 2005

UW-Madison scientists zero in on drugs' sweet spots

A team of UW-Madison scientists has developed a technique to easily manipulate and exchange the sugars found in chemicals produced in nature. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new anti-cancer treatments by allowing researchers to rapidly scan the roles of different sugars in complex natural products.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2005

Underneath it all

Scientists study soil insects to develop sustainable pest control methods, such as using flavanoid compounds and silk to deter pests. Researchers also investigate the impact of genetically modified crops on soil organisms, revealing potential effects on springtails and earthworms.

New method for quantum cooling discovered by researchers at The University of Texas at Austin

Scientists at The University of Texas at Austin have developed a new technique for quantum cooling that uses lasers to create a one-way wall. This innovation could lead to advances in atomic clocks and the manipulation of atoms and molecules at extremely low temperatures, enabling researchers to test laws of quantum physics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2005

APS physics tip sheet #51

Researchers have achieved a record-breaking stop of light for over one second using electromagnetically induced transparency. A new model clarifying the mathematical basis for diversity in Darwinian evolution has been developed, suggesting that related species emerging from a common ancestor can quickly evolve in different directions.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2005