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Science News for December 7, 2005


Greyhounds and humans going round the bend

A study published in Nature found that greyhounds can sustain high speeds around corners without slowing down due to centripetal forces. Unlike humans, who are limited by cornering forces, greyhounds use a unique biomechanical approach that allows them to maintain speed.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005

New focus on medical professionalism needed to improve public health

The article highlights the need for a new focus on medical professionalism to address the demoralization of doctors in Britain. The RCP working party's recommendations aim to redefine medical professionalism, incorporating professional values into evaluating doctor performance and development.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Researchers publish dog genome sequence

The published dog genome sequence offers insights into genetic factors contributing to human health and disease. The analysis revealed that dogs share common genetic elements with humans and mice, highlighting the importance of understanding the evolution of genomes.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005

Physicists demonstrate storage and retrieval of single photons between remote memories

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have successfully stored and retrieved single photons between remote quantum memories composed of rubidium atoms. This breakthrough demonstrates the storage of light-based information in matter, a necessary step for transmitting quantum information long distances through optical fibers.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005

NC State scientist assists in cracking code of dog genome

Researchers have successfully sequenced the canine genome, revealing genetic similarities with humans that could help identify disease-causing genes. The breed-specific sequencing project aims to develop new cancer treatments by identifying genetic changes in individual dog breeds.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005

Nutritional genomics identifies a potential weight-loss resistance gene

A recent study found that a genetic variation in the perilipin gene is associated with weight loss resistance, particularly in men and women who have become obese. Carriers of this gene variant lost an average of 20 pounds during a low-calorie diet, while those without it experienced significant weight changes.

SourceTufts University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 7, 2005

Similar stem cells in insect and human gut

Researchers have discovered that adult fruitflies have the same stem cells controlling cell regulation in their gut as humans do. This finding is significant for understanding digestive disorders, including some cancers, and developing cures. The similarity between insect and human gut stem cells suggests a common evolutionary origin.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How do boxers differ from poodles? Researchers collar genomes

A study comparing the genomes of boxers and poodles identified significant genetic variations that could be used to study diseases, development, and behaviors in dogs. The research also sheds light on evolutionary influences shaping mammalian genomes.

SourceThe Institute for Genomic Research·JournalGenome Research·DateDec 7, 2005

Alaska's Columbia Glacier continues on disintegration course

The glacier has reached the midpoint of its projected retreat, with a shrinking length of 9 miles since 1980. The glacier's rapid retreat is attributed to complex physical processes and warming trends, resulting in an annual discharge of nearly 2 cubic miles of ice into the Prince William Sound.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateDec 7, 2005

Mountainous plateau creates ozone 'halo' around Tibet

Scientists found high levels of ozone at extreme altitudes in Tibet, forming a 'halo' that may put climbers at risk due to its medical effects. Ozone concentrations are higher than expected and could exacerbate hypoxia and respiratory issues.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Advance in cholera bacteria points to new treatment and vaccine

Researchers have discovered a factor that enables V. cholerae bacteria to attach to intestinal cells, leading to colonization and disease. A new therapy approach is being developed based on this finding, which could improve vaccine efficacy.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005

Large Himalaya earthquakes may occur sooner than expected

Recent Himalayan earthquakes may be followed by larger events in the same region, while medieval earthquakes were much larger and less frequent. The study aims to understand what governs the recurrence interval and size of these rare events.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateDec 7, 2005

TLR4 gene found to protect against tumor development

Researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences discovered that the TLR4 gene plays a critical role in protecting against tumor development and chronic inflammation. This finding suggests targeting the innate immune system may be a useful tool in fighting various human diseases, including cancer.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 7, 2005

Salty taste preference linked to birth weight

Research found that infant birth weight is inversely related to salty taste acceptance, suggesting a lasting influence on flavor and food preferences. The study's results could inform programs aimed at reducing salt intake, which is linked to high blood pressure.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Open Source Biotechnology alliance for international agriculture

The BiOS Initiative aims to develop inclusive technology toolkits by mapping patent landscapes and fostering collaboration among scientists, farmers, and innovators. This effort seeks to provide better problem-solving options for developing countries, prioritizing local needs and independence.

SourceCAMBIA·DateDec 7, 2005

How seizures progress to epilepsy in the young

Researchers found that GABA-triggered neurons contribute to the development of epilepsy in immature brains through fast oscillations. As brain maturity increases, glutamate's excitatory effects dominate, reducing GABA's impact on epilepsy.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Scientists push forward understanding of multiple sclerosis

Researchers have identified two proteins found in the Neurofascin gene that link glial ensheathment of nerve fibers to node formation. This breakthrough discovery may help find ways to improve nerve conduction in patients with conditions like MS.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalNeuron·DateDec 7, 2005

Dog genome sequence and analysis published in Nature

The study unlocked genetic variation among dog breeds, revealing ~2.5 million individual genetic differences among breeds that can be used to locate the genetic contributions to physical and behavioral traits. The analysis also found evolutionary conservation with humans, highlighting regions of the human genome that are highly preserv...

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Regulating gene expression – STAT

STAT proteins play a key role in regulating gene expression by phosphorylating specific sequences, leading to transcriptional activation. This process is essential for various cellular processes, including proliferation and differentiation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 7, 2005

A Jekyll-and-Hyde enzyme's role in Alzheimer's

Researchers discovered that a Jekyll-and-Hyde enzyme plays a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease. Transient production of the enzyme p25 enhances learning and memory, whereas chronic expression impairs these cognitive functions. The study uses mice to demonstrate the dual effects of p25 on neural mechanisms.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Trust-building hormone short-circuits fear in humans

A brain imaging study has discovered that oxytocin quells the brain's fear hub, the amygdala, and its brainstem relay stations in response to fearful stimuli. This finding suggests a potentially powerful treatment approach toward socially relevant fear and may have therapeutic value in disorders characterized by social avoidance.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·DateDec 7, 2005

Acne, milk and the iodine connection

Researcher Harvey Arbesman links acne and dairy products to the presence of iodine in milk. Studies have shown significant iodine levels in various countries' dairy products. Iodine intake has been linked to acne exacerbation since the 1960s.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateDec 7, 2005

Gene loops

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a new mechanism for gene regulation known as 'gene loops', which play a crucial role in controlling the expression of genes. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of gene function and regulation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 7, 2005

Global warming could halt ocean circulation, with harmful results

A study by Michael Schlesinger predicts a high likelihood of thermohaline circulation collapse due to global warming. The shutdown would have devastating effects on the climate, including warmer temperatures in the southern hemisphere and colder temperatures in the northern hemisphere.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateDec 7, 2005
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.

Six Central European scientists awarded EMBO/HHMI startup grants

The EMBO/HHMI Startup Grants will provide resources and ongoing support for six promising scientists in Central Europe. The initiative aims to strengthen the scientific pipeline in the region, building on previous programs that supported established science.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·DateDec 7, 2005

Sunflower seeds, pistachios among top nuts for lowering cholesterol

Sesame seed and wheat germ topped the list as effective in lowering cholesterol levels, while Brazil nuts and walnuts ranked lowest in phytosterols. A well-balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial for maintaining good health, the researchers stress.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 7, 2005