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Science News for March 21, 2007


Ren receives IADR Young Investigator Award

Dr. YiJin Ren is recognized for her groundbreaking research on tooth movement mechanisms and cytokine profiles during orthodontic treatment. She has published over 40 papers and received several awards, including the 'Outstanding Young Scientist Award' from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Study focuses on wandering minds

A new study found that college students experience mind-wandering almost one-third of the time, with individual results varying widely. Higher working memory capacity was linked to better focus during concentrated activities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 21, 2007

Emergency responses greatly increase risk to firefighters of dying on duty from heart disease

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that fire suppression and other emergency firefighting duties significantly increase the risk of coronary heart disease deaths among firefighters. The study revealed a 10-100 times higher risk of dying from CHD while putting out fires compared to non-emergency duties.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 21, 2007

Major new research program

A new research program, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, aims to understand the impact of non-governmental agencies on reducing poverty and exclusion. The program will focus on a broad range of groups, including NGOs, advocacy networks, and social movements.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 21, 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.

Oral Biology Research Award presented to Russell

Dr. Russell is recognized for his contributions to understanding the protein antigens on Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium associated with dental caries. His work has led to the development of immunological interventions targeting this adhesin and improved mucosal immune response strategies.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Victor Lawrence honored with IEEE Simon Ramo Medal

Victor Lawrence, a pioneer in digital signal processing concepts, has been awarded the IEEE Simon Ramo Medal. His work on voiceband modems, digital subscriber line technology, and broadband transmission paved the way for worldwide Internet access and high-speed data communication.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateMar 21, 2007

Scientists identify a gene that may suppress colorectal cancer

Researchers discovered a gene called Atp5a1 that, when mutated, reduces the incidence of polyps in mice. The mutation leads to decreased levels of Atp5a1 gene expression, which may provide insights into its potential role in human cancer.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Bird sex is something else

Research reveals that birds can live with higher doses of sex-related genes due to ineffective dosage compensation. This challenges current thinking about the role and mechanisms of dosage compensation in species with heteromorphic sex chromosomes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateMar 21, 2007
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.

Connecticut's Hand to receive IADR Salivary Research Award

Dr. Arthur R. Hand is recognized for his significant work on salivary gland ultrastructure and function, including the role of cyclic-AMP-dependent protein kinase and lingual lipase and amylase. He has made major contributions to our understanding of salivary glands and their various components.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Mechanics meets chemistry in new way to manipulate matter

Researchers at the University of Illinois have found a novel way to manipulate matter and drive chemical reactions along a desired direction. The new technique utilizes mechanical force to alter the course of chemical reactions, yielding products not obtainable through conventional conditions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

International and American Associations for Dental Research present awards and fellowships

The International Association for Dental Research (IADR) presented numerous prestigious awards and fellowships, recognizing outstanding service, scientific contributions, and research in oral health prevention. The IADR Distinguished Service Award was given to Robert Collins, while the E.W. Borrow Memorial Award recognized research in ...

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

System monitors health of new composite military missiles

Purdue University engineers have developed a structural health monitoring system to detect flaws in new composite military missiles. The system uses triaxial accelerometers to pinpoint impact locations and severity, improving durability and performance.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 21, 2007

Researchers find best way to detect airborne pathogens

A new device called the BioSampler detects airborne pathogens more accurately than traditional methods, even in low concentrations. The BioSampler causes less damage to microorganisms, allowing for a more accurate assessment of their viability and potential threat to human health.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 21, 2007

Gender and age can be determined from face silhouettes

A study published in Journal of Vision found that people can accurately extract information from silhouetted face profiles about their front-view counterparts. The results showed a high classification accuracy for gender and age traits, with male silhouettes identified as male 83.3% of the time.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalJournal of Vision·DateMar 21, 2007
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.

A safe folic acid boost from flour

Researchers find that consuming folic acid from fortified flour at current mandated US levels and double this amount is probably safe at average intakes. However, long-term surveillance is needed to assess potential safety implications of accumulated folic acid in the population.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMar 21, 2007

Marshall to receive Wilmer Souder Award from IADR

Dr. Grayson Marshall is being honored with the Wilmer Souder Award for his significant contributions to dental materials research. His work on SEM and AFM studies has greatly advanced our understanding of bonding mechanisms and natural interfaces with biomaterials.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

San Diego stem cell consortium tops in state funding

The San Diego Consortium for Regenerative Medicine has received six grants totaling $16.479588 to conduct life-saving human embryonic stem cell research, including work on brain repair and spinal injuries. The consortium aims to develop cures and therapies for devastating diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateMar 21, 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.

Baum to receive IADR Oral Medicine & Pathology Award

Dr. Bruce J. Baum is recognized for his significant contributions to oral medicine and pathology, including the discovery of xerostomia's importance in clinical practice. His research has led to the development of novel treatments for salivary gland damage and single-protein-deficiency disorders.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Hersh receives IADR Research Award in Pharmacology

Dr. Elliot V. Hersh has been recognized for his research on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and local anaesthetics used in dentistry, including the approval of articaine by the US FDA. He is a prominent figure in the IADR Pharmacology, Therapeutics & Toxicology Group, having served in leadership roles and organized symposia.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Researchers find substantial amount of mercury entering the ocean through groundwater

A new study by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution researchers has found significant amounts of dissolved mercury entering coastal waters through groundwater, contrary to previous assumptions. The discovery has implications for understanding the environmental impact of mercury pollution and its effects on marine ecosystems.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 21, 2007

Mooney to receive IADR's Isaac Schour Memorial Award

Dr. David Mooney is recognized for his groundbreaking work on tissue engineering and tissue regeneration, including blood vessel and bone regeneration. He will receive the IADR Isaac Schour Memorial Award, a prestigious honor acknowledging outstanding scientific contributions in the field.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007
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.

Jones to receive IADR Award in Geriatric Oral Research

Dr. Judith Jones, a renowned geriatric oral researcher, will receive the prestigious IADR Award for her groundbreaking contributions to geriatric oral research. Her extensive work has significantly advanced clinical practices and published knowledge in geriatric dentistry.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Schmalz to receive major IADR Pulp Biology Research Award

Dr. Gottfried Schmalz is a renowned scholar recognized for his long-standing research on pulp cell behavior in response to dental materials. His work has bridged basic and clinical sciences, focusing on biocompatibility of dental materials and resulting in significant contributions to the field.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Simmer to receive research in Biological Mineralization Award

Dr. Simmer's laboratory made significant observations on the alternative splicing of amelogenin RNA transcripts, leading to improvements in understanding genetic etiologies of inherited enamel defects like amelogenesis imperfecta. His work also focused on tooth dentin and the isolation of dentin sialophosphoprotein-derived proteins.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

Stephen receives Trendley Dean Memorial Award

Dr. Kenneth Stephen has made a major international contribution to the field of dental public health, with over 30 years of groundbreaking research on caries prevention and oral health promotion. His work has led to significant advancements in fluoride delivery methods and oral cancer screening.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007
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.

Brush anode and tubular cathode scale up microbial fuel cells

Researchers at Penn State have developed a new microbial fuel cell system that uses brush anodes and tubular cathodes to produce more power from wastewater. The system, which uses naturally occurring bacteria, can clean water while generating electricity, reducing the need for energy consumption.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 21, 2007

Birkhed receives Research in Dental Caries Award

Dr. Dowen Birkhed, a renowned expert in dental caries research, has received the prestigious IADR Research in Dental Caries Award. Over 35 years of dedicated research have led to numerous publications and awards.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007
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.

Is bigger better? Breast surgery linked to boost in self-esteem and sexuality

A study by University of Florida nurse researcher Cynthia Figueroa-Haas found that breast augmentation improves women's self-esteem and sexual satisfaction. The study revealed significant increases in ratings of sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction among participants. However, Figueroa-Haas warns that plastic surgery should not be ...

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPlastic Surgical Nursing·DateMar 21, 2007

Inhibiting blood to save the brain

A fibrous protein called fibrinogen promotes multiple sclerosis (MS) when it leaks into the brain, triggering inflammation. Researchers at UCSD have identified a specific receptor that binds to fibrinogen and inhibit this inflammation process.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 21, 2007

Darveau receives Periodontal Disease Research Award

Dr. Darveau's research has provided major paradigm shifts in understanding host responses to periodontal bacteria, including P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide's ability to down-regulate inflammatory responses.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

AGU Journal highlights -- March 21, 2007

A burst of protons from the Sun in 1859 caused unprecedented ozone destruction, with energy released six times larger than a 1989 solar flare. Simultaneously, research suggests that ancient Farallon plate movement may have triggered massive earthquakes in the central US, shedding light on seismic hazards.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 21, 2007

IADR to present Behavioral Science Award to Harvard's Douglass

Dr. Chester Douglass, a leading researcher in academic dentistry and policy development, has made significant contributions to the field of oral health. He is being recognized for his work on the epidemiology of dental diseases, including fluoride exposure and childhood dental caries.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

20 of world's 162 grouper species threatened with extinction

A comprehensive assessment by Conservation International found that 20 grouper species are threatened with extinction, with eight already listed as under extinction threat. The report highlights the need for better fishery management and marine protected areas to prevent further decline.

SourceConservation International·DateMar 21, 2007

Morphine kills pain -- not patients

New research published in Palliative Medicine challenges the misconception that morphine is a lethal drug. The study found no significant changes in vital statistics when patients with severe cancer pain were treated with morphine. Morphine's wide safety margin and effectiveness in managing pain have been confirmed.

SourceSAGE·JournalPalliative Medicine·DateMar 21, 2007

Moral judgment fails without feelings

A study by neuroscientists from Harvard, USC, and Caltech finds that damage to the frontal lobe's ventromedial prefrontal cortex leads to abnormal moral choices. The research suggests that emotions play a crucial role in moral judgments, but also leaves intact other moral problem-solving abilities.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2007

Craniofacial Biology Award presented to Vargervik

Karin Vargervik is being recognized for her extensive work on experimental and clinical issues related to bone formation and remodeling. Her research has focused on craniofacial growth, development, and malocclusions, with a particular emphasis on etiological factors.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007

IADR presents Research in Prosthodontics & Implants Award to Stanford

Dr. Clark M. Stanford, a renowned prosthodontist and researcher, has received the prestigious IADR Research in Prosthodontics & Implants Award. The award recognizes his groundbreaking work on osteoblastic gene expression and its impact on gene expression.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2007
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.

Glaucoma diagnosis may be mistaken in some younger Chinese people

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found a new syndrome occurring in the Chinese population that may not lead to severe vision loss or blindness. The condition affects young and middle-aged individuals with normal eye pressure and nearsightedness.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 21, 2007

MU receives $1 million to create college advising corps

The University of Missouri-Columbia will create a college advising corps to guide high school and community college students from low-income backgrounds towards college enrollment and graduation. The program aims to increase college attendance and completion rates among these students.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMar 21, 2007