Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive January 2006


Page 9 of 13

Cracking the genetic code for control of gene expression

A new approach to understanding gene expression regulation has been developed by Finnish scientists. By analyzing DNA sequences and identifying regulatory elements, the researchers have uncovered a potential mechanism explaining why many genes are linked to cancer.

Fossil galaxy reveals clues to early universe

Astronomers have detected ionizing radiation leaking from a dwarf galaxy undergoing star formation, providing insights into the early universe's evolution. The study suggests that hot stars in Haro 11 allowed for some ionization to escape into intergalactic space.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

JCI table of contents: January 12, 2006

Researchers found that leptin blockade improved clinical symptoms of disease, slowed progression, reduced relapses, and reduced antigen-specific T cells in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Additionally, the study suggests that leptin neutralization may be a potential way to treat multiple sclerosis.

Berkeley scientists get first detailed look at Dicer

Researchers have gained a detailed understanding of Dicer's molecular structure, which serves as a 'molecular ruler' for processing RNA fragments. This discovery has significant implications for gene-silencing processes and could lead to new treatments for diseases.

Scientists 'RAVE-ing' about most ambitious star survey ever

Scientists confirm that dark matter dominates the total mass of our home galaxy, the Milky Way, through the Radial Velocity Experiment (RAVE) survey. The team aims to measure the speed, temperature, surface gravity and composition of up to a million stars passing near the sun.

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.

Multi-wavelength images help astronomers study star birth, death

Researchers at the University of Illinois created composite images of optical, radio, infrared, ultraviolet and X-ray wavelengths to understand massive stars' impact on their galactic surroundings. The study reveals that massive stars energize and enrich the interstellar medium with strong ultraviolet radiation and fast stellar winds.

St. Jude projects 90 percent cure rate for ALL

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have made significant progress in treating Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), with a reported 90% cure rate. The improvements are attributed to the effective use of existing drugs, genetic technologies, and personalized treatments.

Hubble panoramic view of Orion Nebula reveals thousands of stars

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured the sharpest view ever taken of the Orion Nebula, revealing a tapestry of star formation and large-scale structures. The image showcases over 3,000 stars of various sizes, including possible young brown dwarfs and binary brown dwarfs.

Extinctions linked to climate change

A study published in Nature finds that climate change created favorable conditions for a pathogenic fungus, leading to widespread extinctions of harlequin frogs. The research highlights the complex relationship between global warming and disease transmission, underscoring the urgent need to understand the impacts on biodiversity.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

The secret life of algae

Researchers found that algae need vitamin B12 from bacteria due to an alternative metabolic process. This discovery highlights the importance of symbiotic relationships in maintaining ecosystem balance, with implications for global health and biodiversity.

The giant protein titin helps build muscles

Scientists at EMBL and King's College discovered a unique connection between titin proteins that may help assemble muscle tissue. The study used advanced microscope techniques to watch molecules link together in live cells, revealing a new mechanism for sarcomere formation.

Protein finding could lead to treatment for inflammatory diseases

Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered a protein, MC160, that inhibits inflammatory responses by degrading a subunit of the immune system's IKK complex. This finding offers hope for treating conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

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.

Engineers create mathematical method to design better robots, structures

A mechanical engineer at Purdue University and a civil engineer at Tel Aviv University have created new theorems that improve structure and machine design by combining kinematics and statics. This knowledge enables engineers to create safer structures and machines with better stability, potentially at lower cost.

The forgotten methane source

Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics found that living plants emit significantly more methane than dead plant material, and this process is not hindered by oxygen. The discovery suggests that about 10-30% of global annual methane production comes from plants, with tropical regions being the largest contributors.

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.

How elasticity affects the market for illegal goods

The elasticity of demand is key to understanding the effects of punishment on suppliers, who pass costs to consumers, leading to lower consumption when demand is elastic. In contrast, excise taxes and persuasive techniques are more effective in reducing illegal drug spending.

'Darwinian debt' may explain why fish stocks don't recover

Researchers propose 'Darwinian debt' as a key factor in fish stock depletion, suggesting that species' inability to adapt to changing environmental conditions leads to population decline. This concept challenges traditional views on conservation and management strategies for marine ecosystems.

MRIs better at diagnosing needs for 'bionic ear' implants

Researchers at UT Southwestern found that MRI offers more detailed views and specific information on cochlear implants than CT scans. This enables surgeons to determine the best surgical technique, electrode arrays, and ear placement for each patient.

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.

PNNL unveils GridWise(TM) initiative to test new electric grid technologies

The GridWise Demonstration project tests new electric grid technologies that enable consumers to make informed decisions about their energy use. Researchers will analyze how customers react to real-time pricing information and smart appliances, aiming to reduce power demand during peak hours and prevent widespread outages.

First demonstration of 'teaching' in non-human animals

Researchers at University of Bristol observed ants using 'tandem running' to teach each other routes, a behavior that meets the criteria for formal teaching. This discovery suggests that information value rather than brain size may drive the evolution of teaching in animals.

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.

Why the brain has 'gray matter'

Researchers propose that brain regions like cerebral cortex and spinal cord are designed with low conduction delays in mind, allowing for efficient signal transmission. The study provides a mathematical framework for understanding the segregation of gray and white matter in the brain.

APS Physics Tip Sheet #59

Researchers have successfully detected neutrons with energies typical of fusion reactions in a sonofusion experiment, eliminating earlier concerns about data accuracy. Meanwhile, water molecules have been found to form long, squirming filaments through electronic bonds, providing a clearer picture of their interactions.

New insights into neural tube defects

A study published in Nature reveals that a molecular mechanism directs cells to migrate to the correct location within the developing neural tube of vertebrates. The research, conducted by Mount Sinai School of Medicine, identifies specific molecules involved in restoring polarity and guiding cell migration.

Memory design breakthrough can lead to faster computers

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new type of magnetic memory cell that can store large amounts of information in a densely packed area. The cells, made up of tiny cobalt or nickel rings, are immune to stray magnetic fields and can be controlled on-demand.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Climate change drives widespread amphibian extinctions

A recent study published in Nature reveals that climate-driven fungal disease is a major contributor to the decline of amphibian populations worldwide. The research found that warmer temperatures favor the growth and reproduction of a deadly skin fungus, which kills frogs mostly in cool highlands or during winter.

UCLA scientists uncover mechanism of response to targeted therapy

Researchers found that human kidney cancer cells lacking the tumor suppressor gene Von Hippel Lindau were more sensitive to CCI-779 due to high levels of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF). The study identified a test to predict which patients will benefit from receiving CCI-779, potentially helping 20,000 kidney cancer patients annually.

Common enzyme is a key player in DNA repair

DinB DNA polymerase is specialized for proficiently replicating damaged G nucleotides, allowing cells to tolerate DNA damage and preventing cancer. The enzyme's unique ability is essential for survival, as mutations can render it inactive.

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.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

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.

Report highlights DOE Joint Genome Institute achievements

The DOE Joint Genome Institute has made groundbreaking discoveries in genomics, including the sequencing of poplar trees, diatoms, and sulfate-reducing bacteria. These findings have far-reaching implications for clean energy, environmental remediation, and carbon management.

Barrow researcher receives $965,000 grant to study nicotine and smoking cessation

A Barrow researcher has received a $965,000 grant to investigate nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain's pleasure-reward centers. The research aims to develop novel drug treatments for nicotine dependence, building on previous findings that an anti-depressant medication, bupropion, mimics nicotine's effects at these receptors.

Astronomers shed surprising light on our galaxy's black hole

Researchers have observed that less energetic infrared flares coincide with more energetic X-ray and submillimeter flares, suggesting accelerated particles give rise to emission. The study also found that flare activity is driven by the infrared wavelength, with 40% of observations detected in this range.

Insects and mammals share common fat-building pathway, study suggests

A study found that the Hh pathway in insects determines whether adult stem cells are fated for fat or bone, with implications for treating osteoporosis, diabetes, and obesity. The researchers also discovered that drugs targeting this pathway could potentially build stronger bones while reducing fat.

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.

U of S researchers develop new vaccine candidate against hepatitis C

U.S. researchers have developed a new vaccine candidate against hepatitis C using dendritic cells, which reduced the amount of carrier virus expressing HCV protein in mice by 100,000 times compared to controls. The study's findings offer a promising approach to prevent liver disease and eliminate the virus from the body.

ICS most effective for persistent asthma in children

A recent study found that ICS (fluticasone propionate) was more effective than LTRA (montelukast) in improving asthma control in children with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. The study showed significant improvements in asthma control days, pulmonary responses, and inflammatory biomarkers.

Brain plays key role in diabetes therapy

Researchers found that therapies targeting brain insulin receptors can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce insulin dose requirements. Gene therapy interventions also increased the animals' response to insulin therapy about 2-fold.

MIT: Spinning black hole leaves dent in space-time

Researchers have discovered a remarkably stable indentation in the fabric of space and time, created by the spin of a black hole. The finding is based on identical patterns observed in X-ray light emitted near the black hole nine years apart, using NASA's Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer.

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.

Obesity in middle age raises heart disease, diabetes risk in older age

A Northwestern University study found that middle-aged individuals with higher body mass indexes had significantly higher risks of hospitalizations for and deaths from heart disease and diabetes in older age. Having a normal BMI in young adulthood and middle age confers significant health benefits.

Mapping Orion's winds

Astronomers have mapped the outflow from two regions of star formation in the Orion Nebula, providing new insights into the process of star creation. The study used Hubble Space Telescope data to track shock waves and determine the duration of stellar winds, shedding light on how these winds shape the surrounding clouds.

Astronomers report mysterious giant star clusters

Researchers discovered young super nebulae around giant star clusters, containing up to a million young stars, and emitting radiant power billions of times that of the sun. The discovery raises questions about why Milky Way no longer forms similar clusters after 10 billion years.

Report shows deforestation threatens Brazil's Pantanal

The Paraguay River Basin, home to the Pantanal wetlands, faces critical threats from agriculture, cattle grazing, and coal mining. Deforestation has already destroyed almost 45% of the original vegetation, with some areas losing over 90%. Conservation efforts are needed to protect the region's biodiversity and ecosystems.