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Science News for March 28, 2007


Miniature chain-mail fabric holds promise for smart textiles

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a flexible, metallic fabric composed of small rings and links. The fabric's unique properties make it suitable for developing smart fabrics and wearable electronic devices. Funding from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency supported this groundbreaking research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists identify a candidate gene for osteoporosis

Researchers identified a candidate gene called DARC that may underlie differences in bone density between African-Americans and Caucasians. The study found that the DARC gene negatively regulates bone density in mice, and inhibiting its function could lead to therapies for osteoporosis.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 28, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists find that lightning is good indicator of volcanic activity

Researchers from the University of Alaska Fairbanks have discovered a correlation between lightning and volcanic eruptions. The study, published in Science journal, used electromagnetic lightning detectors to capture electrical activity during Mount Augustine's 2006 eruption, providing new insights into volcanic behavior.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists derive bottom-up air-sea momentum transfer under major hurricane

Researchers directly derived air-sea momentum exchange from ocean current observations under Hurricane Ivan, confirming the trend that momentum transfer decreases at high wind speeds. The findings improve storm surge modeling and have significant implications for ocean circulation and numerical model accuracy.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMar 28, 2007

Nutrients might prevent hearing loss, new animal study suggests

Researchers found that a combination of vitamins A, C, and E and magnesium effectively prevented permanent noise-induced hearing loss in guinea pigs. The study's lead author suggests that similar nutritional bars could provide adequate daily protection for people exposed to loud noises, such as soldiers or concertgoers.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

New asthma inhaler propellant effective, but costlier

A new asthma inhaler propellant is safe and effective, but its higher cost will significantly impact consumers and healthcare systems. The switch from chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) to hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellant may lead to increased costs for patients with prescription benefit plans, as well as co-pays.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Impact of exercise on body fat is different for boys and girls

A study of 224 children aged 7-10 found exercise had a significant impact on body fat for boys and girls, but in different ways. Boys were more physically fit, with increased hard exercise linked to reduced weight, while girls benefited from moderate exercise.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

New research shows why too much memory may be a bad thing

A new study from Columbia University Medical Center suggests that too much memory can be detrimental to cognitive function. The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that suppressing neurogenesis in the hippocampus improves working memory. This implies that a balance between memory growth and...

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2007

Electronics engineer predicts fantastic plastic future

A University of Manchester engineer has pioneered a way to make single-layered planar plastic transistors and diodes using fast and simple printing techniques. This could lead to the production of information displays that can be rolled up, intelligent tickets for public transport systems, and electronic stamps for letters and packages.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMar 28, 2007
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

No need to thank dinosaur-killing asteroid for mammalian success

A comprehensive tree of mammalian evolution puts major diversifications well after dinosaur die-off, casting doubt on their impact. The team constructed a complete evolutionary tree using molecular data and fossil evidence, finding that diversification didn't take off until the Eocene epoch, about 56 to 34 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Scientists unlock physical, chemical secrets of plutonium

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a new theory that explains the physical and chemical properties of plutonium, which can help create safer and more versatile nuclear materials. The study finds that valence electrons in solid plutonium metal fluctuate among different orbitals on a short time scale.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Arthritis pain, the brain and the role of emotions

A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found that arthritis pain is processed in brain areas associated with emotions and fear. The medial pain system, including the cingulate cortex and amygdala, was activated during arthritic pain, suggesting a stronger emotional impact than experimental pain.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateMar 28, 2007

Leader of the pack: Dog groomer turned UH pharmacy professor honored

Lynn Simpson, a clinical associate professor at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, has received the American Pharmacists Association-Academy of Student Pharmacists' Outstanding Chapter Advisor Award. She was recognized for her spirit and impact on students, who have held regional or national leadership posts in APhA-ASP.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMar 28, 2007

UAF permafrost scientist receives $1.8M in grants

Romanovsky will establish a network of permafrost observatories in North America and Russia to measure temperatures and monitor permafrost changes. The project aims to create a standardized system for monitoring permafrost and measuring temperatures, similar to Alaska's existing data set.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Scientists reveal structure of gateways to gene control

Researchers have mapped nucleosome structures on a genome-wide scale, revealing an intimate relationship between DNA sequences and gene regulation. The study pinpointed critical gateways for transcription, showing how nucleosomes control gene function across the entire genome.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

The delayed rise of present-day mammals

A new study has found that the ancestors of modern mammals did not quickly evolve and spread to fill empty niches following the mass extinctions of dinosaurs. Instead, diversification rates dropped and stayed low for 40 million years, with modern mammal orders emerging around 50-55 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Cryoablation -- A new treatment option for some kidney tumor patients

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found that cryoablation is an effective treatment option for patients who are not good candidates for surgery due to size or location of the tumor. The procedure involves freezing the tumor with argon gas, resulting in short-term success in over 90% of selected patients.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalRadiology·DateMar 28, 2007

Smokers make poorer workers

A study of 5,500 women found that smokers had shorter careers, lower pay, and more disciplinary actions than non-smokers. Smokers were also more likely to be discharged for medical or behavioral reasons.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalTobacco Control·DateMar 28, 2007

Unique partnership produces life-critical 3D structures

The Structural Genomics Consortium has determined the 3D structure of PARP3, a protein of significant relevance to diseases such as cancer, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. The available data can accelerate early-phase drug development projects and contribute to a better understanding of disease mechanisms.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·DateMar 28, 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.

Automated analyzer for complex nuclear waste provides rapid results

The device developed by PNNL scientists provides a fully automated prototype process monitor with microwave-assisted sample pretreatment and flexible chemical separations capabilities. It enables fast analysis of alpha- and beta-emitting radionuclides in liquid solutions, providing near real-time feedback on process performance.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 28, 2007

Did dust bust the 2006 hurricane season forecasts?

A NASA study suggests that tiny dust particles may have contributed to the relatively calm 2006 Atlantic hurricane season by cooling ocean waters. The research found that Saharan dust concentrations played a major role in shaping the season, potentially even initiating pre-existing conditions due to El Niño.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 28, 2007

Chromosomal microarray analysis proves accurate

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that chromosomal microarray analysis is remarkably sensitive in detecting abnormalities in individual chromosomes, identifying the source of problems in many cases. The technique improved detection rates by up to 12% compared to traditional methods.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 28, 2007

Brain tissue reveals possible genetic trigger for schizophrenia

A study led by Dr. Diana Perkins identified lower levels of microRNAs in the brains of adults with schizophrenia compared to healthy individuals. The research suggests that altered expression of microRNAs may be involved in the development of schizophrenia, potentially related to disordered synaptic plasticity.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalGenome Biology·DateMar 28, 2007
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.

Widely used iron nanoparticles exhibit toxic effects on neuronal cells

Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that iron oxide nanoparticles can be toxic to nerve cells and interfere with their signal-transmitting extensions. The nanoparticles were initially investigated as a possible way to manipulate nerve cells remotely with magnetic force.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 28, 2007

Clues to gene expression in cystic fibrosis will guide research

A small percentage of CF patients with a rare genetic stop mutation responded positively to gentamicin treatment, suggesting potential targeted treatments for the disease. Gentamicin reversed stop codons and restored the CFTR protein, improving respiration in affected patients.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Gene mutations linked to hereditary lung disease

Scientists at Johns Hopkins have identified genetic culprits triggering a fatal lung disease. Mutations in telomerase genes were found in 8% of patients with inherited idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), leading to short telomeres and cell death.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Greenhouse gas effect consistent over 420 million years

Researchers at Yale and Wesleyan Universities have found that the sensitivity of Earth's climate to changes in carbon dioxide has been consistent for 420 million years. The study confirms that each doubling of atmospheric CO2 translates to an average global temperature increase of about 3° Celsius.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 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.

MIT reveals the tangle under turbulence

The MIT team has visualized a complex network of two types of curves formed by two distinct groups of particles. The first type of curve attracts other fluid particles, while the second type repels them. This discovery may lead to better understanding of turbulent mixing and aid in designing more efficient vehicles.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 28, 2007

When lawyers work pro bono it's more than a case of good will

A recent study published in Law and Society Review reveals that pro bono work is influenced more by institutional factors than personal goodwill. The research found significant variations in attitudes towards pro bono work among lawyers in different practice settings, including small firms, large firms, solo practices, and in-house cou...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalLaw & Society Review·DateMar 28, 2007
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Fashions change, but change is always the fashion, new research suggests

Researchers found that popularity lists for baby names, music, and dog breeds change at a steady rate, regardless of population size. The study suggests that innovation drives fashion change, with a small proportion of innovators influencing the majority through random copying.

SourceDurham University·JournalEvolution and Human Behavior·DateMar 28, 2007

Magnetic resonance imaging improves breast cancer diagnosis

An international study by the University of Bonn found that MRI can detect up to 30 cancers in the opposite breast of women with recent unilateral breast cancer diagnoses. The study's results show a 99.6% confidence level that no breast cancer is present if an MRI scan is normal, making preventive mastectomy unnecessary.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

MRI screening of opposite breast necessary for women with recent breast cancer diagnosis

A multi-center study found that MRI screening detected cancer in the opposite breast in 30% of women with recent breast cancer diagnosis. The cancers were missed by previous mammography and clinical exam. The authors recommend MRI screening for high-risk populations, but emphasize its expense and limited ability to detect calcifications.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Omega-3 fatty acids affect risk of depression, inflammation

A new study suggests that balancing omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid intake can reduce the risk of clinical depression and certain inflammatory diseases. Participants with higher levels of omega-6 and symptoms of depression had elevated markers of inflammation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Natural mechanism for immune suppression paves way for cancer trials

Scientists have identified a natural mechanism by which tumors and viruses evade the immune response, leading to the development of new cancer therapies. By inhibiting an enzyme called IDO, researchers hope to restore the immune system's ability to target cancer cells. Early clinical trials are underway to test this approach.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalScience·DateMar 28, 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.

Just keep moving, ladies

Women in their 70s who engage in moderate physical activity may reduce their risk of developing frequent arthritis symptoms. The study found that increasing exercise to 2 ½ hours per week can further decrease the likelihood of these symptoms appearing.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMar 28, 2007

ACS News Service Weekly PressPac -- March 28, 2007

Breakthroughs in environmental science and technology are showcased in the ACS News Service Weekly PressPac. Researchers have discovered a sugar-based solution to reduce chromium toxicity in industrial waste, while gold and silver nanoparticles offer an antidote to fuel cell poisoning. Meanwhile, scientists in protective clothing techn...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 28, 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.

Study sheds light on medication treatment options for bipolar disorder

Researchers studied 366 participants with bipolar disorder, finding that adding antidepressants to mood stabilizers did not improve outcomes or trigger manic episodes. The study suggests careful management of mood stabilizer medications may be a reasonable alternative to adding antidepressants.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007

Healthy coastal wetlands would adapt to rising oceans

A new Duke University study suggests that healthy coastal wetlands can adjust to rising sea levels by maintaining their vegetation and sediment supplies. This adaptation enables the marshes to function as effective buffers against coastal storms, while also providing habitat for commercially important fin and shellfish.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 28, 2007

MRI detects most missed opposite breast cancers in women

A major clinical trial shows that MRI scans can quickly identify cancer in the opposite breast of women diagnosed with cancer in one breast. The study found a 90% accuracy rate for detecting contralateral breast cancers.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 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.

Harnessing new frequencies

Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered a way to manipulate far-infrared light for efficient transmission, paving the way for faster wireless communication. The technology also enables detection of concealed explosives and biological weapons using vibrational spectroscopy.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2007

Groundbreaking Canadian asthma study

A new report published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that bronchial thermoplasty significantly improves asthma control, reducing symptoms and medication use. The procedure, which reduces airway smooth muscle, demonstrates promising results for patients with moderate or severe asthma.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 28, 2007