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Bacteria on old-growth trees may help forests grow

A new study reveals that bacteria living in mosses on tree branches contribute to nutrient dynamics, sustaining the long-term productivity of coastal temperate rainforests. Large, ancient trees provide habitat for mosses and cyanobacteria, which fix nitrogen and fertilize the forest.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPlant and Soil·DateJun 7, 2011

Bacteria living on old-growth trees

Researchers discover that bacteria associated with mosses on tree branches are essential for nutrient dynamics, enabling the long-term productivity of coastal temperate rainforests. The study highlights the importance of preserving large old-growth trees to maintain these forests' health.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPlant and Soil·DateFeb 23, 2011

Rochester-led study leads to recommendation for use of heart failure treatment nationwide

A new therapy reduces mortality and heart failure risk in patients with mild cardiac disease, showing a 34% reduction in death or heart failure risk compared to those receiving only an ICD. The treatment has been approved for use in the US, benefiting nearly 4 million Americans with milder forms of heart failure.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2010

'Zen' bats hit their target by not aiming at it

A new study reveals that Egyptian fruit bats use an alternative strategy to detect and track targets. By alternating the direction of their sonar beam, they can pinpoint the location of a target but make it harder to detect in the first place. This approach optimizes pinpoint accuracy while sacrificing some detection ability.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2010

DNA molecules in moss open door to new biotechnology

Scientists from Uppsala University have successfully introduced plasmid-based methods into Physcomitrella moss cells, opening doors to powerful techniques in plant research. This breakthrough enables gene cloning and overexpression directly in plant cells without the need for single-cell organisms like bacteria or yeasts.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 6, 2009

Telltale moss

Researchers found that moss shares basic development processes with humans and discovered a key component in stem cell programming. This discovery has implications for cancer research and could lead to better reprogramming of implanted stem cells.

Main federal disaster relief law has fallen behind modern threat levels, NYU professor finds

A new study by NYU Professor Mitchell Moss suggests that the Robert T. Stafford Act is out of date and requires revision to provide rapid financial assistance after a catastrophe. The act's failure to recognize 21st-century threats and its lack of distinction between rural and urban disasters are major concerns.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management·DateMar 13, 2009

Oetzi's last supper

A 5,200-year-old study of the Tyrolean Iceman's intestinal contents identifies six different mosses, suggesting he may have traveled, injured himself, and dressed wounds. The findings provide insights into his lifestyle and events leading up to his death.

SourceSpringer·JournalVegetation History and Archaeobotany·DateDec 1, 2008

New research shows bats have complex skills to deal with 'clutter'

Researchers discovered that bats employ sophisticated techniques to locate prey in cluttered environments, including adjusting the timing and frequency of their ultrasonic pulses. By analyzing high-speed camera footage and audio recordings, the team found that bats 'strobe' the air with sound to distinguish insects from background noise.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 6, 2006