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Science News for January 9, 2007


Why doesn't the immune system attack the small intestine?

A study published in Nature Immunology reveals that lymph node cells instruct immune system cells to leave healthy tissue alone, protecting the small intestine from attack. This finding may lead to new forms of treatment for autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature Immunology·DateJan 9, 2007
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.

A star's death comes to light

A team of astronomers has solved the long-standing mystery of Kepler's supernova remnant using Chandra's latest image, revealing it as a Type Ia supernova. The discovery sheds light on how stars can end catastrophically and expands our understanding of the universe.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·DateJan 9, 2007

Big-brained birds survive better in nature

A new study reveals that birds with larger brains relative to their body size have a lower mortality rate than those with smaller brains. The research supports the cognitive buffer hypothesis, which suggests that large brains enable animals to better cope with environmental challenges such as climate change and habitat destruction.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJan 9, 2007

Dramatic results from combo therapy surprises Krabbé-disease researchers

A combination of bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy has greatly lengthened the lives of laboratory mice with Krabbé disease, a rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disorder also found in people. The dual therapy improved motor skills and increased lifespan by more than twice as long as untreated mice.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJan 9, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Spanish scientists reveal dynamic map of proteins

Scientists from IRB Barcelona have published a dynamic map of protein behavior, enabling the prediction of protein structures and interactions. The study, part of the MoDel project, aims to establish a 'fourth dimension' for protein structures, facilitating the design of new drugs and understanding of protein functions.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2007

Calcium important for nursing mothers' oral health

A new study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that breastfeeding mothers who consume insufficient Calcium may be at risk for increased bone loss around their teeth and gums. The research emphasizes the importance of a high-Calcium diet during lactation to promote healthy periodontal tissues.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateJan 9, 2007

Rethinking last century's closest, brightest supernova

Astronomer Nathan Smith proposes a new theory for the origin of the 1987 supernova's triple-ring nebula, suggesting that unstable blue supergiant stars, called luminous blue variables, may be responsible. Three nearby stars with similar nebulae have been discovered, contradicting the prevailing merger and red-to-blue transition explana...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateJan 9, 2007
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.

Special issue of BSSA focuses on 2004 Sumatra earthquake

The January special issue of BSSA focuses on the 2004 Sumatra earthquake, which is the best recorded large earthquake in history. The study reveals that great earthquakes can occur in various types of subduction zones, not just fast and young ones.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJan 9, 2007

Education does not protect against age-related memory loss, say USC researchers

A new study from USC reveals that better-educated older adults experience greater declines in word memory compared to their less educated peers. Researchers found that while education is consistently linked to improved cognitive performance, it may not compensate for normal age-related memory loss after 70.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalResearch on Aging·DateJan 9, 2007

Dust around nearby star has fluffiness of new-fallen 'powder' snow

The researchers found that the dust grains have a porosity of over 90%, similar to powder snow, allowing them to measure the agglomeration process of interstellar grains. This discovery provides valuable insights into the early days of our planetary system and how dust grains grow from interstellar sizes to macroscopic objects.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·DateJan 9, 2007

Superbubble of supernova remnants caught in act of forming

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have observed a superbubble forming in the Small Magellanic Cloud, a galactic neighbor of the Milky Way. The study reveals that multiple massive stars are blowing bubbles and overlapping supernova remnants, which may eventually merge into one enormous cavity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateJan 9, 2007
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.

Benefits of testosterone treatment unknown, research shows

Two Mayo Clinic studies found no strong evidence supporting testosterone's safety from cardiovascular harm and inconsistent results regarding its impact on sexual dysfunction. The research highlights the need for large-scale trials to inform clinicians' decisions about prescribing testosterone.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 9, 2007

Better review of new technology is needed to reduce health costs

The US healthcare system's increasing reliance on medical technology has driven cost growth, according to Rita Redberg. She proposes an evidence-based review process to balance innovation with value and improve patient care outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 9, 2007

Fires fuel mercury emissions, University of Michigan study finds

A University of Michigan study has found that forest fires release more mercury into the atmosphere than previously recognized. The research, led by Doctoral student Abir Biswas, estimates that wildfires and prescribed burns account for approximately 25 percent of human-generated mercury emissions in the United States.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalGlobal Biogeochemical Cycles·DateJan 9, 2007

NSF funds biofertilizer research at Rutgers-Camden

A Rutgers-Camden research team, led by Heike Bücking, aims to develop a better understanding of the nutrient exchange processes between fungi and agricultural environments. The project seeks to promote the use of mycorrhizal fungi as biofertilizers to reduce fertilizer pollution and improve agricultural sustainability.

SourceRutgers University·DateJan 9, 2007
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.

New study sheds light on 'dark states' in DNA

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new high-energy state in DNA that helps dissipate UV energy. The 'dark state', which can last for 10-150 picoseconds, is found in single nucleotides and dissolves energy through 10-50% of the time. This discovery may provide insights into DNA damage and repair mechanisms.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2007

Researchers identify gene associated with severe kidney failure in diabetes

A research team has identified a protective gene variant that may help prevent severe kidney failure in people with diabetes. The discovery could lead to novel treatment approaches for susceptible individuals, as well as a new marker for identifying those at increased risk of future kidney disease.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNephrology Dialysis Transplantation·DateJan 9, 2007

Plants point the way to coping with climate change

Researchers found that different regions require varying amounts of cold to delay flowering, with some requiring as little as four weeks of cold. This discovery could help breed crops that can thrive in changing climates.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateJan 9, 2007
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.

Tumor-suppressor gene is critical for placenta development

A study of the retinoblastoma gene found that it is essential for placenta development and may also contribute to miscarriages. The research used transgenic mice to disable the gene and observe its effects on embryonic development.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 9, 2007

UCR researchers examine how some invasive plants gain a foothold

Researchers found that controlling sexual compatibility in self-incompatible plants like the California wild radish can help minimize their reproductive success and prevent establishment. Larger population sizes and genetic diversity also boosted reproduction, highlighting potential strategies to combat invasive plant spread.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2007

Blood test predicts cardiac events and death in heart patients

A blood test for NT-proBNP accurately predicts the risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and death in patients with known cardiovascular disease. Higher levels of NT-proBNP are associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular events or death.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJan 9, 2007