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Science News for May 12, 2013


'Look but don't touch'

Researchers at ICFO have successfully demonstrated a new quantum-mechanical measurement technique, allowing for the observation of spinning electrons in atoms without disturbing them. This achievement exceeds the standard quantum limit and paves the way for the observation of individual atoms.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 12, 2013

Mutation causing wrong-way plumbing explains 1 type of blue-baby syndrome

A study published in Nature Medicine reveals that a mutation in the Semaphorin 3d molecule disrupts the development of pulmonary veins, leading to Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC). The condition causes poorly oxygenated blood throughout the body, resulting in cyanosis. Researchers found that Sema3d mutations cause ab...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Immunology·DateMay 12, 2013
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.

Carnivorous plant throws out 'junk' DNA

The Utricularia gibba genome, smallest sequenced from a complex plant, contradicts the notion that vast quantities of noncoding DNA are crucial for complex life. The bladderwort has purged most of its genetic material, including noncoding 'junk' DNA, while maintaining a functional set of genes similar to those of other plant species.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2013

Graphene joins the race to redefine the ampere

A graphene single-electron pump provides a fast enough electron flow to create a current standard, overcoming the Achilles heel of metallic pumps. This innovation marks a major step forward in using graphene to redefine the ampere.

SourceNational Physical Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 12, 2013

Researchers take important step in unlocking what causes congenital heart disease

A large-scale sequencing analysis of congenital heart disease has identified a specific biological pathway that is critical to its development. The study found that spontaneous mutations affect genes involved in this pathway, which is essential for human development and can lead to structural heart problems in infants.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Spontaneous mutations are major cause of congenital heart disease

Research finds that spontaneous genetic mutations are a major cause of congenital heart disease, accounting for 10% of severe cases. The mutations affect genes involved in regulating gene expression and DNA packaging, leading to increased risk of heart defects.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2013

Chemistry breakthrough sheds new light on illness and health

Researchers have developed a new dye that surpasses current contrast agents in terms of image quality and duration, opening up possibilities for live-cell filming and reduced costs. The breakthrough could lead to expanded use of imaging technology in developing countries, where access to medical equipment is limited.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalMethods and Applications in Fluorescence·DateMay 12, 2013
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.

Nano-breakthrough: Solving the case of the herringbone crystal

Researchers at the University of Michigan and MIT have discovered a method to control the arrangement of nanocrystals into complex patterns, including the herringbone style. By understanding the interactions between particles, they can design materials with specific properties, revolutionizing the field of nanotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 12, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Invasion of the slugs -- halted by worms...

Research found that earthworms increase nitrogen content of plants and reduce slug damage by 60% due to improved plant defenses. High plant diversity also results in lower slug damage, suggesting a complex interaction between the two species.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateMay 12, 2013