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Science News for August 11, 2011


Taking a 'shine' to heart repair

A new treatment developed at Tel Aviv University uses laser-treated bone marrow stem cells to help restore heart function and health. The procedure significantly reduces heart scarring after an ischemic event by up to 80 percent, offering a safer and quicker alternative to existing options.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalLasers in Surgery and Medicine·DateAug 11, 2011

Urban impacts on phosphorus in streams

A study by Washington State University-Vancouver and the University of California-Davis investigated the relationship between human phosphorus sources and aquatic nutrient levels. The research found that a small area contributed to most phosphorus input from human sources, with fertilizer and livestock manure being key drivers.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 11, 2011

FASEB MARC program announces the travel award recipients for the 2011 Leadership Development and Grant Writing Seminar for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and new assistant professors

The FASEB MARC Program has announced the winners of its 2011 Leadership Development and Grant Writing Seminar, with a total of $61,050 in awards to support underrepresented graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. The program aims to increase highly-trained underrepresented scientists in leadership positions.

Like humans, chimps are born with immature forebrains

A recent study tracking chimpanzee brain development found that both humans and chimps have immature forebrains at birth. The study's findings suggest that this developmental delay may provide an extended period of plasticity, enabling both species to develop complex social skills.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 11, 2011

New tool may yield smaller, faster optoelectronics

Researchers have developed a new technique to manipulate surface plasmons in real time, enabling the creation of ultra-small-scale optoelectronic devices and systems. This innovation allows for on-the-fly control and flexibility in nano-system design and manufacture.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateAug 11, 2011

For bugs within bugs within mealybugs, life is a 'patchwork'

Researchers sequenced the genomes of mealybug-dwelling bacteria, revealing a level of molecular integration between species that has never been seen. The study found that the bacteria have evolved to trade metabolites and enzymes to produce essential amino acids, with one genome shrinking to its smallest ever described size.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 11, 2011

Researchers fight cholera with computer forecasting

A new computational model developed by researchers at Ohio State University can forecast where cholera outbreaks are likely to occur in Haiti. The model takes into account various factors, including environmental conditions and human contact, to identify typical patterns of cholera outbreaks and hotspots where control efforts are needed.

Shooting light a curve

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have demonstrated a technique to control the curved trajectories of Airy beams in real-time, enabling fast-as-light communication systems and optoelectronic devices. This breakthrough uses plasmonic Airy beams to manipulate surface plasmon polaritons, opening doors to new technologies in nano-photonics, biol...

Common themes emerge in hospitals' anti-MRSA efforts: Study

Researchers identified five core themes for successful implementation of evidence-based practices in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) to reduce Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Engaging front-line staff, building multi-disciplinary teams, and acquiring top management support are critical commonalities.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateAug 11, 2011

Stick-on tattoos go electric

Engineers create epidermal electronic systems (EES) with miniature sensors, light-emitting diodes, tiny transmitters and receivers to measure human physiological data. The devices are seamlessly integrated onto the skin, providing opportunities for non-invasive medical monitoring.

Dual-action protein developed at Stanford better restricts blood vessel formation

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new dual-action protein that effectively prevents the formation of blood vessels by targeting two key chemical receptors. This breakthrough could lead to more effective cancer treatments and potentially benefit diseases such as macular degeneration.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 2011

Engineered bacteria mop up mercury spills

Researchers have engineered bacteria to withstand high levels of mercury and remove it from their surroundings, providing a potential technology for bioremediation. The bacteria were able to grow in extremely high concentrations of mercury and remove over 80% of it in five days.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biotechnology·DateAug 11, 2011

Effortless sailing with fluid flow cloak

Researchers at Duke University have demonstrated a theoretical ability to significantly increase the efficiency of ships by creating a 'fluid flow cloak' that tricks the surrounding water into staying still. The cloak uses porous materials and tiny pumps to push flowing water along, greatly reducing the energy needed to propel vessels.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 11, 2011

Arctic ice melt could pause for several years, then resume again

Researchers found that Arctic ice under current climate conditions is as likely to expand as it is to contract for periods of up to a decade. The study suggests that climate change and variability work together to accelerate sea ice loss, but temporary stabilization or expansion may occur.

Metabolomics as a basis for gender-specific drugs

A study published in PLOS Genetics found that there are significant differences in metabolites between men and women, which may lead to the development of gender-specific treatments for certain diseases. The researchers used metabolomics and genetic data to identify key biomarkers, paving the way for new therapeutic approaches.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 11, 2011