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Science News for March 3, 2006


Convergent evolution of molecules in electric fish

Scientists found that African and South American fish independently developed electric organs by altering sodium channel proteins, allowing them to generate and sense electric fields. This convergent evolution of molecules provides valuable insights into the role of genes in human health and disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2006

People want to be seen helping the climate

Researchers found that well-informed players contributed the most to a public good, climate preservation. Players who received public recognition also donated more than those who made anonymous contributions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2006

Prime Minister Howard announces $50 million injection for WEHI expansion

The Australian government has pledged $50 million to support the expansion of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute's (WEHI) research capabilities in cancer and infectious disease. This funding will enable significant expansions in the institute's research programs, focusing on targeted therapies for cancer treatment and malaria control.

SourceResearch Australia·DateMar 3, 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.

Combined, genes and environment affect health more than they do alone

A study at Duke University Medical Center found that genetic mutations can affect serotonin levels and glucose metabolism, increasing the risk of obesity and diabetes. Another study revealed that men with a certain gene mutation are more susceptible to stress-related health problems when caregivers for relatives with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateMar 3, 2006

People use separate brain mechanisms to make ambiguous and risky choices

Research finds activation of specific brain regions depends on participants' preferences for risk or ambiguity, shedding light on why people make risky choices. The study's results contribute to the emerging field of neuroeconomics, a new area of research that combines neuroscience and economics.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateMar 3, 2006

Serotonin may play role in hardening of the arteries

Researchers found that low serotonergic function was associated with thicker carotid arteries, suggesting a link between the serotonin system and atherosclerosis. The study's findings could lead to new avenues for preventing heart disease and stroke through the regulation of brain chemistry.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·DateMar 3, 2006

Earth's turbulence stirs things up slower than expected

Scientists measured how tiny spheres in turbulent water separate based on initial distance, revealing particles obey Batchelor dispersion initially before transitioning to Richardson-Obukhov law behavior. The findings can improve models of pollutant dispersion and help explain crustacean navigation using odors.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateMar 3, 2006
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.

From biological imaging to Sudoku solutions

A new algorithm, developed by Cornell University researchers, can reconstruct detailed images of small specimens from raw data using X-ray diffraction microscopy. The algorithm also solves the internationally popular puzzle Sudoku, appealing to its creator's 'whimsical side'.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2006

Synthesis and characterization of a new class of metal nitrides

Scientists have successfully created a novel class of metal nitrides made from noble metals, exhibiting unusual or unique properties. These new compounds may prove to be even more durable than current titanium nitrides used in the semiconductor industry.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMar 3, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Newly discovered killer cell fights cancer

A newly identified cell, dubbed IKDC, has been found to fight cancer by combining the abilities of natural killer (NK) and dendritic cells. This hybrid cell speeds up immune reactions and makes the system more efficient.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 3, 2006

Hearts hurt when spouses spat

A study of 150 healthy married couples found that hostility in women was associated with atherosclerosis, while controlling behavior in men or their wives was linked to increased hardening of the arteries. The findings suggest that low-quality relationships are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateMar 3, 2006

U of MN research shows how infection-fighting cells interact

Researchers at U of MN found that a diverse inventory of T-cells is essential for optimal immune function. They developed a method to monitor small numbers of specific T-cells in mice, revealing that these cells survive and activate more effectively in normal quantities.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalScience·DateMar 3, 2006
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.

New method for identifying microbes

Brookhaven scientists developed a technique called single point genome signature tagging to identify key segments of genetic code. This allows for rapid sequencing and distinction among species, with potential applications in identifying pathogens and assessing environmental responses.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 3, 2006