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Science News for May 8, 2011


Electronic life on the edge

Researchers confirm theoretical predictions and discover edge-states in graphene nanoribbons, exhibiting unique electronic properties. The findings open the possibility of building quick-acting, energy-efficient nanoscale devices from graphene-nanoribbon switches.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 8, 2011

Socioeconomic status influences celiac disease diagnosis

A new study found a strong correlation between income levels and celiac disease diagnosis accuracy, with higher-income individuals more likely to receive accurate diagnoses. The study's authors suggest that socioeconomic factors, including health literacy and access to information, may contribute to this disparity.

SourceDigestive Disease Week·DateMay 8, 2011

iPhone can diagnose stroke: Study

Researchers developed an iPhone application that can diagnose stroke with high accuracy, using noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) and CT angiogram head scans. The technology allows doctors to analyze images in real-time from anywhere, providing critical access to specialists.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateMay 8, 2011
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Celiac disease vaccine shows promising results in Phase I trial

A potential celiac disease vaccine, Nexvax2, has demonstrated safety and efficacy in a Phase I clinical trial, with the goal of treating the autoimmune disease by desensitizing patients to specific gluten peptides. The vaccine is expected to enter Phase II trials within the next year.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·DateMay 8, 2011

50 years on, UK betting shops lure new breed of punters

Research finds UK betting shops are drawing in a new type of customer, particularly young males and ethnic minority groups, with the use of fixed odds betting terminals. These machines are associated with higher risks of problem gambling due to their fast-paced nature and high stakes.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMay 8, 2011

In a genetic research first, Mayo Clinic turns zebrafish genes off and on

Researchers at Mayo Clinic's Zebrafish Core Facility successfully switched individual genes on and off in zebrafish, allowing them to observe embryonic and juvenile development. This breakthrough enables the study of protein function and its relation to health problems like cancer, heart attacks, and addiction.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 8, 2011

Does the central Andean backarc have the potential for a great earthquake?

Researchers from the University of Hawaii at Manoa used GPS data to find that a section of the eastern Andes is locked in place, allowing stress to build up and potentially leading to large earthquakes. The study suggests that earthquakes with magnitudes up to 8.9 are possible in the region.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 8, 2011
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Season of birth and celiac disease in Massachusetts children

A study found that celiac disease is more common among Massachusetts children born in the spring or summer, suggesting a link between gluten introduction timing and birth season. The study suggests rethinking gluten introduction for some children based on their birth season.

SourceDigestive Disease Week·DateMay 8, 2011

The brain performs visual search near optimally

Research by Dr. Wei Ji Ma and colleagues found that the brain can perform visual search tasks near optimally, even in complex environments. By weighing different pieces of visual information based on reliability, humans can quickly integrate data to detect targets.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 8, 2011

ASGE holds Crystal Awards Dinner as part of Digestive Disease Week

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) held its seventh annual Crystal Awards dinner to recognize outstanding contributions to endoscopy. The event honored recipients of the Rudolf V. Schindler Award, Distinguished Service Award, and other prestigious awards.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateMay 8, 2011
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.

Zombie ants have fungus on the brain

Researchers investigated zombie ants in Thailand's rainforest, finding they were manipulated by the fungus into dying at optimal conditions for reproduction. The fungus causes muscle atrophy, central nervous system damage, and 'lock jaw', forcing infected ants to bite leaves to release spores.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateMay 8, 2011

Graphene optical modulators could lead to ultrafast communications

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a graphene-based optical device that can switch light on and off, enabling faster data transmission. The technology has the potential to revolutionize high-speed communications and computing, allowing for faster data streaming and processing.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2011