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Science News for March 15, 2006


UCR researchers grow bone cells on carbon nanotubes

UCR researchers successfully grew bone cells on a scaffold of carbon nanotubes, which can be used to treat bone defects and improve dental implants. The non-treated and electrically-neutral nanotubes emerged as the best scaffolds for bone growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 15, 2006

Vaccinated adults less likely to die from pneumonia

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 63,000 patients hospitalized for pneumonia between 1999 and 2003. Vaccination was associated with a 40-70% lower risk of death during hospitalization compared to unvaccinated or unknown status patients.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Uncovering how bone marrow stromal cells can potentially regenerate brain tissue

Researchers discovered that bone marrow stromal cells can improve brain receptor function in patients with cerebral stroke, showing potential for neural tissue regeneration. The study may provide a 'missing link' needed in understanding receptor function, possibly leading to safe and ethical cell transplantation therapy.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

USC, Rice to develop bacteria-powered fuel cells

Researchers aim to build a self-propelled prototype within five years, optimizing the system's performance through computer modeling and experimental work. Shewanella oneidensis bacteria can transfer electrons directly to anode surfaces, making them a promising candidate for fuel cells.

SourceRice University·DateMar 15, 2006

Evolution in action: Why some viruses jump species

Researchers found that carnivore parvoviruses and the human B19 erythrovirus undergo rapid evolution when switching host species. This contradicts the assumption that DNA viruses exhibit slower mutation rates compared to their hosts and other DNA viruses.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalJournal of Virology·DateMar 15, 2006

Metabolites of pharmaceuticals identified in wastewater

The study found that antibiotics and synthetic hormones can increase antibiotic resistance and disrupt endocrine functions. Researchers identified key metabolites from commonly prescribed medications and hormone replacement therapy, highlighting the need for optimized wastewater treatment processes to remove these compounds.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateMar 15, 2006

How the brain sees people in motion

Studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) found that the visual cortex uses a specific region known to detect motion of other people, but also engages areas responding to static human form. This clarifies the emerging picture of how the brain makes sense of other individuals' appearances and actions.

SourceCell Press·DateMar 15, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study finds pathological gambling runs in families

A study of 31 pathological gamblers and their relatives found a genetic link to the disorder. The research suggests that family members share genes that increase the likelihood of impulsive behavior.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateMar 15, 2006

Rare Chinese frogs communicate by means of ultrasonic sound

Scientists discovered that rare Chinese frogs can communicate using high-pitch ultrasonic sounds, a trait previously thought to be exclusive to mammals. The frogs' ability to hear and respond to these sounds allows them to facilitate communication in noisy environments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Magnetic nanoparticles facilitate separations in 'one-pot' multi-step reactions

Researchers have developed a method to separate two different catalysts from a multi-step chemical reaction done in a single vessel using magnetic nanoparticles. This technique could lead to more efficient production of specialty chemicals and reduce waste, benefiting the pharmaceutical and specialty chemical industries.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 15, 2006

Let me hear your body talk: UH scientists mine biomedical data

The grant unifies labs, extending technologies and adding computation and visualization resources. Researchers will analyze large volumes of data from non-invasive imaging technologies to study brain function, detect cognitive impairment, and improve biometrics-based security.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 15, 2006

Gene influences antidepressant response

Researchers found a significant association between genetic variation and treatment outcome for antidepressant medication. Patients with the AA gene type were 16-18% more likely to benefit from citalopram, suggesting a key role of the serotonin 2A receptor in mechanism of action.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 15, 2006

U-M scientists identify major psoriasis susceptibility gene

Researchers discovered a key gene associated with psoriasis, which is the first genetic determinant identified in a large-scale study. The discovery could lead to new treatments for psoriasis without the risks of current therapies.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Transplantation Report 2005

The report highlights the reduction in mortality rates following organ transplantation, with primary graft dysfunction being a significant factor affecting long-term survival. Lung transplant patients also experience chronic rejection and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, leading to reduced pulmonary function and quality of life.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

Reducing fine particulate air pollution cuts mortality risk

A study found that cities with reduced fine particulate matter pollution (PM2.5) had lower adjusted mortality rates, especially for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The largest drops in mortality rates were seen in cities with the greatest reduction in PM2.5 concentrations.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

Older people more successful than younger in quitting smoking

Research reveals older people are far more successful in quitting smoking compared to younger populations, with notable differences in motivations and factors influencing cessation. Notably, female elderly participants are more likely to quit, while health diagnoses such as cancer or heart disease may play a role.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 15, 2006

Molecule by molecule, new assay shows real-time gene activity

Researchers developed a new assay to observe real-time gene expression in live cells, providing unprecedented insights into fundamental biological processes. The technique detects protein molecules being produced in small bursts within cells and could reveal the randomness of gene expression.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Study finds incidence of hypertension reduced with early intervention

A four-year study of over 800 patients with pre-hypertension found that treatment with candesartan cilexetil significantly reduced the risk of developing hypertension. The study suggests that early intervention may be an effective way to prevent the disease's progression.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

U of M researchers identify cause of memory loss

University of Minnesota researchers have identified a specific protein complex linked to memory loss and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. The discovery may lead to targeted drug development to prevent the disease from harming the brain.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006

ICON funds UCSB survey of nanotechnology best practices

The ICON-funded study aims to identify current nanotechnology standards and practices, with a focus on enhancing environmental and health safety. The research will provide essential data for companies in the US, Europe, and Asia, shedding light on new safety models and identifying areas where they are needed.

SourceRice University·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Molecule targets and kills tumor cells, starves blood supply

A new molecule, ARC, has shown promise as a potential anticancer drug that selectively kills tumor cells without harming normal cells. The compound inhibits RNA synthesis in normal cells but induces cell death in cancer cells by blocking the cell cycle, making it an attractive alternative to existing drugs that can harm healthy tissue.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalCancer Research·DateMar 15, 2006

NHGRI announces new sequencing targets

The National Human Genome Research Institute is implementing a comprehensive strategy to identify structural variations in the human genome and sequence mammalian genomes. The effort aims to build a powerful toolbox for advancing human health by filling gaps in knowledge.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateMar 15, 2006

Astronomers, at last, get a chance to size up a brown dwarf

A team of astronomers reports the discovery of two young brown dwarfs in mutual orbit, allowing for the direct measurement of their radii and masses. The findings provide valuable insights into the physical properties of brown dwarfs, shedding light on their size, mass, and evolutionary pathways.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Brookhaven scientists working toward practical hydrogen-storage materials

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory are working on developing practical hydrogen-storage materials by doping sodium alanate with titanium. The goal is to create a material that can store and release hydrogen efficiently, enabling large-scale energy storage for fuel cells and other applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMar 15, 2006

Minimally invasive approach can work for many thyroid patients

A minimally invasive approach to thyroid surgery has been shown to be safe and effective for many patients, reducing surgical trauma and recovery time. The study found that careful selection of patients based on factors such as the size of the diseased organ and the patient's anatomy enables surgeons to use this approach in most cases.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateMar 15, 2006

Subsidized killing of carnivores fails to protect US sheep industry

A study finds that US sheep industry decline is linked to market trends, not predation losses, contradicting decades of federally subsidized predator control efforts. The study's findings suggest re-evaluation of federal funding for predator control in the sheep industry.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Biology·DateMar 15, 2006

Mood affects young and old differently, study finds

Researchers found that older adults are more likely to attribute actions to individuals alone when in a negative mood, while younger adults consider situational factors. This suggests that older adults may struggle with processing external information in negative emotional states.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 15, 2006
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

The Green Revolution comes to Laos

The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation's 16-year project has resulted in a significant increase in Laos' rice production, reaching 2.5 million tons in 2004. This growth is attributed to the adoption of modern varieties, resulting in higher yields and increased cash income for households.

SourceInternational Rice Research Institute·DateMar 15, 2006

Smoking interferes with brain's recovery from alcoholism

Recovering alcoholics who smoked showed significantly less improvement in brain function and neurochemical markers of brain cell health compared to those who didn't smoke. Quitting smoking may be beneficial for better brain recovery from alcoholism, suggests a study.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateMar 15, 2006

Tariq Ramadan on the global ideology of fear

Professor Tariq Ramadan argues that education is key to resisting the ideology of fear, which he believes threatens global understanding. He advocates for an 'intellectual jihad' to promote universal values and strive for a more inclusive and equitable world.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalNew Perspectives Quarterly·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Salmonella caught red-handed

Researchers identify key proteins in Salmonella metabolic paths, finding that blocking certain enzymes may not be effective against the bacteria. Only a few essential enzymes are necessary to keep Salmonella alive, and these are also present in other pathogens or human organisms.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006

A new view of asthma's cause

A recent study published in PNAS found that at least two-thirds of asthma patients' pulmonary T cells are actually NKT cells, not conventional Th2 cells. This discovery may lead to the development of new treatments targeting NKT cells.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 15, 2006

Eclipsing brown dwarfs provide new key to the star formation process

Astronomers have discovered an eclipsing pair of brown dwarfs in the Orion Nebula, providing the first direct measurement of their mass, size, and surface temperature. This discovery sheds light on the dynamic processes that produce stars and helps estimate the masses of faint objects.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006
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.

Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center researchers find ginseng may improve breast cancer outcomes

A large epidemiological study led by Xiao-Ou Shu found significant improvements in survival and quality of life measures among breast cancer patients who used ginseng, particularly those who started using it before diagnosis. The study suggests that ginseng may provide tangible benefits to breast cancer survivors.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 15, 2006

Prediction of a prokaryotic RNA-silencing system

Researchers identified a number of cas genes associated with CRISPR clusters, potentially involved in RNA-processing mechanisms. They propose that all CRISPR inserts are derived from viruses or plasmids, transcribed and silenced via Cas proteins.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBiology Direct·DateMar 15, 2006

New 'stars' in formation of nerve cell insulation

Researchers discovered that astrocytes promote myelination by releasing leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in response to electrical impulses. This finding may lead to new treatments for demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMar 15, 2006
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Research team identifies cause of memory loss

A research team at Johns Hopkins University has identified a protein complex in the brain that causes cognitive decline and memory loss, providing a potential target for drug development. This discovery may help prevent Alzheimer's disease, which affects millions of Americans.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature·DateMar 15, 2006