Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 16, 2007


Nutrition and heredity are genetically linked

Scientists discovered a genetic link between glycolysis and DNA replication in Bacillus subtilis, indicating that metabolic signals influence DNA synthesis and stability. This finding suggests a global regulatory function of central carbon metabolism in adjusting cellular functions to nutritional conditions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 16, 2007

There's much more to a walk in the park

Researchers at the University of Sheffield found that parks with high biodiversity levels have a greater impact on people's general well-being. The study suggests that successful urban green space management should prioritize biological complexity to enhance human wellbeing beyond just conservation.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 16, 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.

New study: Pycnogenol reduces heart failure

A new study shows Pycnogenol supplementation can prevent damage to the heart caused by high blood pressure and hypertension. The natural pine bark extract enhanced collagen connective tissues in cardiac tissue, resulting in stronger cardiac chambers.

SourceMWW Group·JournalCardiovascular Toxicology·DateMay 16, 2007

Journal details how global warming will affect the world's fisheries

Research from Arizona State University highlights how global warming will drastically alter the world's fisheries, threatening human nutrition and species health. The study finds that changes in ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions will affect fish stocks and habitats, leading to potential extinction of certain species.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNatural Resource Modeling·DateMay 16, 2007

AGU Journal Highlights -- May 16, 2007

The Three Gorges Dam in China is shrinking the Yangtze delta due to sediment retention. Meanwhile, a new model suggests that massive methane releases from Arctic permafrost are unlikely in this century. Satellite data also reveals complex flood wave patterns in the Amazon River, which can improve hazard identification. Additionally, hi...

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 16, 2007
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.

Hexavalent chromium in drinking water causes cancer in lab animals

Researchers discovered that hexavalent chromium causes cancer in laboratory animals when consumed in drinking water, leading to malignant tumors. The study found significant increases in tumors at high doses, highlighting the chemical's potential health risks.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

New study examines 'brain's own marijuana'

Researchers at the University at Buffalo are investigating endocannabinoid, the 'brain's own marijuana,' to regulate stress and anxiety. The study aims to develop a new pharmacotherapy strategy for stress-related mood disorders.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateMay 16, 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.

NASA scientists pioneer technique for 'weighing' black holes

Researchers have successfully applied a new method to determine the masses of black holes in binary systems, including Cygnus X-1 and NGC 5408. The technique takes advantage of X-ray observations of quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) and their relationship with the accretion disk.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMay 16, 2007

Permanent ice fields are resisting global warming

Researchers found that high-altitude ice fields, like Mont Blanc and Dôme du Goûter, have remained stable in mass balance over the last 100 years. The accumulation of snow and ice has varied little since the beginning of the 20th century, indicating a lack of significant melting due to climate change.

SourceCNRS·DateMay 16, 2007

Mechanism of microRNAs deciphered

MicroRNAs regulate cell division and development by blocking protein synthesis at its earliest stage, translation. Researchers developed a new method to study microRNA action in a test tube, revealing that they bind to messenger RNAs and prevent their translation into proteins.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2007

UC Irvine researchers reveal first images of brain changes associated with memory

Researchers have developed unique images of physical changes in brain cells associated with memory, uncovering clues about memory loss linked to cognitive disorders. The study also reveals that LTP deficiencies accompany the memory loss seen during the early stages of Huntington's disease and can be fully reversed through treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMay 16, 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.

ACE inhibitors help preserve kidney function in IgA nephropathy

Researchers found that early treatment with ACE inhibitors can preserve kidney function and reduce the risk of irreversible damage in young patients with early-stage IgA nephropathy. The study suggests that starting treatment early may limit the need for renal replacement therapy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 16, 2007

To what extent are emergency departments being used for primary care?

Researchers analyzed ED usage using the 'Emergency Department Algorithm' (EDA) tool, finding that only 6.8% of Medicaid dollars were spent on ED-provided care, contrary to estimates. The study suggests that legislative efforts to reduce ED spending for Medicaid patients would have a minimal impact on overall expenditures.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Will the healthcare workers go to work during disasters?

Researchers surveyed healthcare workers about their willingness to report to work during disasters. Workers were more likely to come to work when they felt their role was important, safe traveling to work, and supported by family. However, fear and uncertainty can lead to a decrease in staff availability, complicating disaster response.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

IMS updated recommendations on postmenopausal hormone therapy

The International Menopause Society has updated its recommendations on hormone therapy for postmenopausal women, highlighting the importance of individualized treatment and a balanced approach. The new guidelines take into account the latest scientific evidence and aim to provide a global framework for menopause management.

SourceInternational Menopause Society·JournalClimacteric·DateMay 16, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ottawa aggressive protocol for acute atrial fibrillation is successful

The Ottawa Aggressive Protocol, involving IV procainamide and electrical cardioversion, is effective in treating AAF and AAFL with a high discharge rate of over 90%. This approach stands in contrast to traditional US practice, which often involves hospital admission followed by cardiologist treatment.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Infants with bronchiolitis may benefit more from albuterol

A double-blind randomized clinical trial found albuterol to have a clear advantage over epinephrine in successful discharges from the Emergency Department. The study involved over 700 infants and showed a surprising result of a small but real advantage in using albuterol.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Cracks on Enceladus open and close under Saturn's pull

Researchers found that tidal forces caused by Saturn's gravity can control the timing of eruptions from cracks in Enceladus' southern hemisphere. The study suggests that these cracks, known as Tiger Stripes, are warmer than their surroundings and may be the source of eruptions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 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.

Herpes infection may be symbiotic, help beat back some bacteria

Researchers found that mice with chronic herpes virus infections can resist certain bacterial infections, suggesting potential benefits from latent viral infections. The study suggests that human immune systems have evolved to benefit from these chronic infections, which could impact vaccine development and disease research.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2007

Scientists discover new life in the Antarctic deep sea

A recent study published in Nature reveals the discovery of over 700 new species in the Antarctic deep sea, including carnivorous sponges and crustaceans. The research suggests that the glacial cycle led to an intermingling of species from shallow and deep water habitats, redefining our understanding of ocean evolution.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2007

Growing nerve cells in 3-D dramatically affects gene expression

Researchers found that cells cultured in three dimensions exhibit distinct gene expression patterns, growing faster and exhibiting more realistic shapes. The findings suggest that 3-D cell culture methods may be a better representation of the human body's complex cellular environments.

SourceBrown University·JournalTissue Engineering·DateMay 16, 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.

First demonstration of new hair follicle generation in an animal model

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that adult mice can regenerate hair follicles by re-awakening dormant embryonic genes. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for hair loss, scarring alopecia, and other skin disorders.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2007

Rare soft-shell turtle, nesting ground found in Cambodia

A team of scientists from Conservation International and World Wildlife Fund discovered a rare nesting ground for the endangered Cantor's giant softshell turtle in Cambodia's Mekong River. The survey revealed an abundance of the species, allowing for the release of hatchlings into the wild.

SourceConservation International·DateMay 16, 2007

How will responders respond?

Healthcare workers' perceptions of their role in disaster response and safety concerns significantly impact their willingness to report to work. Hospital crisis planners must address these factors to ensure adequate staffing during disasters.

SourceTemple University·DateMay 16, 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.

Africa's doctors' access assessed

Despite challenges such as password issues and internet outages, African postgraduate doctors are making regular use of online medical literature. Textbooks remain a central source of information for many, but 66% have used the Internet for health information in the last week.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateMay 16, 2007

Fingerprint instead of blood sample

Researchers have successfully used specific antibodies to differentiate between fingerprints of smokers and nonsmokers, detecting cotinine metabolite in sweat. This technique could be used for forensic applications, doping detection, medical diagnostics, and drug screening without taking blood samples.

SourceWiley·DateMay 16, 2007

Award-winning staffer honored by peers

Laura Wade, associate director at the Texas Center for Superconductivity, has received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Council of University Research Administrators. Her colleagues praised her commitment to the profession, citing her tireless efforts in grant proposals and educational workshops.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateMay 16, 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.

From ink to optics, study of particle mixtures yields fundamental insights

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a new understanding of particle mixtures, shedding light on the behavior of colloids in various states. The study has potential practical applications in medicine, including the design and production of pharmaceutical formulations.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 16, 2007

From the deep -- Researchers find new species of sea anemone

Scientists found a new species of sea anemone, Anthosactis pearseae, living on the carcass of a dead whale 1.8 miles below sea level. The anemone is small and white, with roughly uniform tentacle length, and may provide clues about human impact on deep-sea ecosystems.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Natural History·DateMay 16, 2007

Exposure to mercury preservatives before birth is no higher in children with autism

A recent study published in the American Journal of Medical Genetics found no association between Rh immune globulin preserved with thimerosal and an increased risk of autism. Researchers investigated the exposure to thimerosal during pregnancies resulting in children diagnosed with autism and found no correlation.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateMay 16, 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.

Working with Inuit community is part of scientific expedition

The University at Buffalo team conducts research on Baffin Island's fjords and sediments to reconstruct past climates and study the effects of climate change. They also educate the local Inuit community about global warming's impact on their traditional way of life.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateMay 16, 2007

Soy estrogens and breast cancer: Researcher offers overview

Researcher William Helferich reviews the science on soy and breast cancer, noting that some studies have yielded contradictory findings. He suggests that exposure to genistein before puberty may reduce breast tumor growth, but warns about the risks of using isoflavone supplements in midlife women.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateMay 16, 2007

Ruling out pulmonary embolism with a simple bedside protocol

A new study validates the Pulmonary Embolism Rule-out Criteria, showing that two-thirds of patients with a low probability of pulmonary embolism receive unnecessary tests. The protocol uses clinical criteria to rule out clots in the lung, reducing costs and side effects associated with CT scans.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Inexpensive 'nanoglue' can bond nearly anything together

Researchers have developed a new method to create an adhesive that can withstand extremely high temperatures, with bonds growing stronger when heated. The 'nanoglue' has potential applications in computer chip manufacturing, energy production, and other industries where traditional adhesives fail.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 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.

Decoding protein structures helps illuminate cause of diabetes

Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a powerful analytical tool capable of measuring molecular structures quickly and accurately, capturing intermediate steps of protein folding and revealing clues to type II diabetes. The technique uses two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy and has potential applications in...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Violent sleep disorder linked to a form of dementia

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a correlation between violent rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and eventual onset of parkinsonism or dementia. Patients with the disorder may be exhibiting early signs of an evolving neurodegenerative disease caused by abnormal synuclein protein clumps.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalBrain·DateMay 16, 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.

US soldiers in Iraq fighting drug-resistant bacteria after injuries

Researchers found no evidence of drug-resistant bacteria Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex on the skin of uninjured US soldiers in Iraq. The study suggests that nosocomial transmission is the likely cause of infections, refuting prior assumptions about the source of the outbreak.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMay 16, 2007

DNA analysis suggests under-reported kills of threatened whales

A study analyzing whale meat sold in Korean markets suggests the number of whales being sold for human consumption is much higher than reported to the International Whaling Commission. The researchers estimate that nearly twice as many minke whales passed through Korean markets between 1999 and 2003 as were officially reported.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateMay 16, 2007

Protocol for treatment of sepsis can reduce hospital deaths

A new treatment protocol for sepsis, known as Early Goal Directed Therapy (EGDT), has been shown to reduce hospital mortality rates by 33%. By implementing EGDT as a routine protocol in emergency departments, patients can experience improved outcomes and reduced costs.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Smoking and sleep top the list of lifestyle factors impacting oral health

A study by the American Academy of Periodontology identifies smoking and lack of sleep as significant lifestyle factors impacting periodontal health. The study found that current smokers were at high risk for periodontal disease progression, while getting seven to eight hours of sleep can help prevent it.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateMay 16, 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.

Salmon tracking program expands to California

The Oregon State University salmon tracking program is expanding to northern California waters to gather data on the distribution of salmon in the ocean. The goal is to support informed fisheries management decisions that balance the harvest of healthy stocks with the protection of weakened runs.

SourceOregon State University·DateMay 16, 2007

Frictional heating explains plumes on Enceladus

A new study suggests that frictional heating is the most likely explanation for the plumes and features observed on Enceladus. The process occurs when tidal forces cause fault lines in the moon's icy shell to rub back and forth, producing enough heat to transform ice into water vapor and ice crystals.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2007

Asthma study shows patients have more options to control disease

Researchers found that patients with well-controlled mild asthma on twice-daily inhaled steroids can safely reduce inhaler use to once a day or switch to daily pills. The study involved 500 children and adults with mild persistent asthma.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 16, 2007

Hives ferment a yeasty brew, attract beetle pest

Researchers found that small hive beetles can detect some alarm pheromones at levels below those detected by honeybees. The beetles associate the alarm chemicals with a good food source and head for the hive. Domesticated European honeybees are not as diligent in cleaning their hives, making them more susceptible to infestation.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2007

Scientists discover cost-effective ways to improve crop output in Uganda

Researchers found that alternative soil fertility management and reduced tillage increased sorghum crop yield in eastern Uganda. Local farmers participated in on-farm trials to evaluate the effectiveness of low-cost alternatives, including mucuna fallow, cowpea rotation, and manure application.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateMay 16, 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.

Better health twice as likely for nonsmokers who live and work with smoking restrictions

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that household smoking restrictions are more strongly associated with better health status than workplace restrictions. Nonsmokers living in households and workplaces with comprehensive smoking bans report improved health, while those without such protections do not.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateMay 16, 2007

Exposure to mercury preservatives before birth is no higher in children with autism

A recent study published in American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A found no causal link between Rh immune globulin (preserved with thimerosal) exposure before birth and the development of autism. The study included over 200 mothers of children diagnosed with autism, revealing that Rh negative status and pregnancies with thimerosal...

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateMay 16, 2007