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Science News for February 12, 2009


How do you mend a broken heart?

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have made a breakthrough in growing functional heart cells from induced pluripotent stem cells, paving the way for potential therapies for heart failure patients. The discovery uses a virus to reprogram skin cells into embryo-like states and could potentially lead to new treatments.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalCirculation Research·DateFeb 12, 2009

A pocketful of uranium

Scientists create a protein that selectively binds to uranium, offering potential methods for detecting and treating uranium poisoning. The protein is based on a nickel-binding protein from E. coli and has been engineered to bind to uranium instead.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 12, 2009

U and CDC find startling numbers of active-military personnel engaging in frequent binge drinking

A study by the University of Minnesota and CDC found that 43% of active-duty military personnel engage in frequent binge drinking, leading to approximately 30 million episodes annually. This behavior is strongly associated with health and social problems, including job performance issues and alcohol-impaired driving.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2009

Next generation digital maps are laser sharp

A new study reveals that airborne laser elevation (lidar) surveys provide a 10-fold improvement in topographical feature measurement precision. This technology adds greater clarity to mapping streams and rivers, allowing for better habitat analysis and restoration. The results have significant implications for various fields such as fo...

SourceBoston College·JournalEos·DateFeb 12, 2009

Involuntary maybe, but certainly not random

Scientists have long debated the function of microsaccades, but researchers at the Salk Institute found they are actively controlled by the superior colliculus. The study reveals that individual neurons in this area are highly specific about which microsaccade directions and amplitudes they command.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2009

Plugging in molecular wires

Researchers developed a new process to capture light energy with nearly equal efficiency by connecting molecular wires to biological photosynthetic systems. This approach improves the transfer of electrons, achieving high quantum yields similar to natural photosynthesis.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 12, 2009

Herpes virus: To vaccinate or not to vaccinate

Researchers have discovered a transient protective effect of herpesvirus infections in mice, suggesting possible benefits against bacterial pathogens. The findings, confirmed by Dr. Marcia Blackman's team, contradict previous suggestions that vaccinated individuals may experience unintended negative consequences.

SourceTrudeau Institute·JournalViral Immunology·DateFeb 12, 2009

Major step for drug discovery and diagnostics

Researchers at University of Copenhagen have developed a general method to study membrane proteins, reducing the development time for useful drugs substantially. The method uses amphipols to immobilize membrane proteins on surfaces, allowing for faster and more accurate testing.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 12, 2009