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Science News for December 14, 2008


Work with fungus uncovering keys to DNA methylation

The study reveals that protein phosphatase PP1 is necessary for normal DNA methylation, removing phosphates attached to histone H3. The research provides novel insights into an intricate regulatory network involving histone phosphorylation and DNA methylation.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 14, 2008

Practice as well as sleep may help birds learn new songs

Young zebra finches learn new songs when they practice singing and then sleep, with changes in brain activity during sleep reflecting the tutor song and auditory feedback. This discovery provides insight into the role of sleep in learning and suggests a general mechanism for learning new skills.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·DateDec 14, 2008
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

As ice melts, Antarctic bedrock is on the move

Scientists have discovered that parts of Antarctic bedrock are rising while others sink in response to melting ice. This finding will improve estimates of future sea level rise by providing a better view of what's happening under the ice.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 14, 2008

Immunity stronger at night than during day

Research reveals that the immune system's phagocytic response is stronger at night and weaker during the day, with flies infected at night showing improved survival rates. The study suggests that circadian proteins play a crucial role in regulating immunity, particularly during restorative functions like sleep.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 14, 2008

Method sorts out double-walled carbon nanotube problem

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a technique to produce double-walled carbon nanotubes with improved electrical conductivity, spatial resolution, and scanning lifetimes. The method uses density gradient ultracentrifugation to separate the nanotubes, resulting in longer DWNTs that outperform single-walled nanotubes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 14, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Snoring or soaring? Strength of fruit-fly immune system varies

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that a fruit fly's immune system responds to infections based on its daily cycle and circadian rhythms. The study suggests that understanding the relationship between sleep patterns and immunity could have significant implications for human health.

SourceStanford Medicine·DateDec 14, 2008

Step out for PAD

New research shows regular exercise can significantly improve peripheral artery disease (PAD) symptoms by increasing collateral blood flow and enhancing vascular efficiency. Exercise training can delay pain onset and increase mobility in people with PAD.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateDec 14, 2008

MIT nanotubes sniff out cancer agents in living cells

Researchers created carbon nanotube sensors that can detect chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin, environmental toxins, and DNA-damaging agents. The sensors use DNA-coated nanotubes to identify specific molecules, allowing for precise monitoring of cancer treatment effectiveness.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 14, 2008

Single adult stem cell can self renew, repair tissue damage in live mammal

Scientists have successfully transplanted a single adult stem cell into a live mammal and shown that it can self-renew and repair damaged tissue. The study used genetically engineered cells to track their dynamics, demonstrating the ability of these cells to proliferate and engraft into injured muscle tissue.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 14, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Looking for extraterrestrial life in all the right places

Researchers are exploring the possibility of life on giant, cold planets called Super-Earths that could harbor a liquid ocean beneath their icy surface. The team uses a novel approach involving gravitational microlensing to detect these potentially habitable worlds.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 14, 2008

6 new genes suggest obesity is in your head, not your gut

A new study found six genes linked to body mass index and obesity, with five impacting brain function. The discovery sheds light on how some people may be genetically wired to overeat, challenging societal views of obesity as a moral failing.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 14, 2008

Exciting discovery could 'stop cancer from killing people'

A team of researchers has identified the enzyme phospholipase Cγ1 as critical for breast cancer cell invasion and metastasis progression. Downregulating PLCγ1 expression can revert metastasis progression, suggesting a promising approach to cancer treatment.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 14, 2008
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.

Brain background to body mass

A genetic study of over 90,000 people has identified six new genetic variants linked to increased Body Mass Index (BMI), indicating that many genetic variants implicated in obesity may affect behavior rather than energy or fat metabolism. The study suggests that the brain plays a crucial role in regulating body weight.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 14, 2008

More food at lower cost

A new study published in Nature Cell Biology has discovered a way to increase the length of root hairs on plants, potentially improving crop yields. This method enables plants to take up minerals and water more efficiently, reducing fertiliser waste and promoting sustainable food production.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateDec 14, 2008