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Science News for August 12, 2012


World's most powerful X-ray laser beam refined to scalpel precision

Scientists at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have improved the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) by using a diamond filter to create narrower X-ray wavelength bands, enabling sharper images of materials and molecules. This advancement promises to speed discoveries and add new scientific capabilities.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 12, 2012

Differences in the genomes of related plant pathogens

Researchers analyzed fungal genomes and transcriptomes to understand how lifestyle affects gene expression and host specificity. They discovered new functions for fungal infection organs, including sensing the presence of plants.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 12, 2012

Smelling a skunk after a cold

A Northwestern University study reveals that brain activity changes in olfactory regions after a week of blocked nostrils, compensating for the interruption of the sense of smell. The brain's response to odors returns to normal shortly after free breathing is restored.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 12, 2012
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.

Unraveling intricate interactions, 1 molecule at a time

Researchers from Columbia University successfully characterized van der Waals interactions in gold-molecule-gold junctions at the single-molecule level. This discovery opens up possibilities for designing and optimizing organic electronic devices with greater efficiency.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 12, 2012

Modeling reveals significant climatic impacts of megapolitan expansion

A study by Arizona State University reveals that megapolitan expansion could lead to local maximum summertime warming of nearly 4 degrees Celsius, surpassing the warming caused by increased greenhouse gases. The research found that incorporating 'cool roofs' into urban planning can alleviate summertime warming substantially.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 12, 2012
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.

Metabolic MAGIC

Researchers have identified 38 new genetic regions linked to glucose and insulin levels, expanding the total number of associated genetic regions to 53. The study used a powerful technology to analyze DNA sequence variations for multiple traits at once.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 12, 2012

Yale team discovers how stress and depression can shrink the brain

A Yale research team has identified a single genetic switch that triggers loss of brain connections and contributes to depression. The study found that the transcription factor GATA1 represses genes necessary for synaptic connection formation, disrupting circuits involved in emotion and cognition.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 12, 2012