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Science News for December 1, 2010


Governments worldwide censor Web content

A new study analyzes where and how governments worldwide censor the web, revealing stark differences in levels of control. The analysis shows that countries with democratic systems have minimal or no censorship, while authoritarian regimes impose extensive restrictions.

SourceSpringer·JournalGeoJournal·DateDec 1, 2010

Invasive pest danger closer than you think

Researchers identified top 100 known insect pests most likely to establish in the US and individual states, finding that many pests are missing from neighboring states. The study found significant negative relationships between state size, biodiversity, domestic air passengers, and GDP and absent pest species.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2010

Physicists use graphene to decode DNA

Researchers are using graphene to develop a new method for decoding DNA sequences, which could lead to more precise medical treatments. The technique involves passing DNA through a nanopore drilled into graphene, allowing scientists to read out the chemical bases along the strand as they pass through.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateDec 1, 2010

Can engineered bugs help generate biofuels? Study holds promise

Concordia University researchers have made a breakthrough in converting plant material into biofuels using engineered bacteria. By introducing structural proteins on the surface of Lactococcus lactis, scientists can create a stable surface for chemical activity, paving the way for more efficient bioprocessing and organic material break...

SourceConcordia University·JournalMicrobial Cell Factories·DateDec 1, 2010

What to do if you are bitten by a snake

According to a new review article from the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, getting to a hospital quickly is the best thing to do if you are bitten by a snake. Current medical treatments, including new medications and surgery, are far more effective than anything that can be done at home.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateDec 1, 2010

Designing safer glucocorticoid drugs

A team of researchers found that the protein LXR-beta is necessary for glucocorticoid drugs to cause severe side effects. In mice lacking LXR-beta, high blood glucose and fatty liver were avoided but immunosuppression remained.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2010

A powerful new technology to identify HIV inhibitors

A new cell-based assay system, EASY-HIT, has been developed to identify HIV inhibitors and measure their potency. The technology, led by Professor Ruth Brack-Werner, can also detect anti-HIV activities in raw plant extracts and has already discovered novel sources of antiviral activities.

Jefferson study determines bone marrow stromal stem cells may aid in stroke recovery

A study by Thomas Jefferson University found that bone marrow stromal stem cells can significantly recover motor behavior in laboratory rats after a simulated stroke. Early administration of the stem cells was more effective than late administration, with profound changes in brain structure and long-lasting motor function improvement.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCell Transplantation·DateDec 1, 2010

Blame the environment: Why vaccines may be ineffective for some people

Researchers found that Mycobacterium chelonae, a common environmental bacterium, can decrease the effectiveness of the bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine. The study suggests that immune cells exposed to this bacterium may dampen vaccine efficacy. This discovery could lead to new, more effective vaccines against tuberculosis.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateDec 1, 2010

New prion discovery reveals drug target for mad cow disease and related illnesses

Researchers have discovered that plasminogen, a protein that breaks down blood clots, accelerates the progression of prion diseases by putting rogue prion proteins into overdrive. This finding presents a promising new target for anti-prion therapy, which could improve treatment options for patients suffering from prion diseases.

December 2010 Geosphere themed issue highlights

This special issue explores the geological changes in the southern margin of Laurentia using Magnetotelluric Transportable Array data, discovering a Jurassic backarc basin in the Gulf of Mexico and revealing new insights into Monterey Submarine Canyon's axial channel. 3D petrography techniques also shed light on pumice clast size distr...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateDec 1, 2010

Insomnia after myocardial infarction

A new study published in Sleep reveals that myocardial infarction can cause paradoxical sleep phase disruption and reduced cholinergic neurons, leading to insomnia. The research highlights the critical role of rapid treatment and preventive measures to mitigate post-infarction complications.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalSLEEP·DateDec 1, 2010

Drug-like compound stops thyroid overstimulation in early NIH studies

Researchers at the NIH have identified a compound that prevents overproduction of thyroid hormone, potentially improving treatment for Graves' disease. The receptor antagonist has not yet been tested in animals or people and still needs to undergo safety testing before potential human trials.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 1, 2010

NIH study identifies ideal body mass index

A recent NIH study found that a body mass index (BMI) between 20.0 and 24.9 is linked to the lowest risk of death in healthy, non-smoking adults. For individuals who are overweight or obese, the risks of death increase dramatically, with certain BMI ranges associated with significantly higher mortality rates.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 1, 2010

Omega-3s in fish, seafood may protect seniors' eyes; a new test may catch glaucoma early

Two studies published in the journal Ophthalmology suggest that omega-3 rich fish and seafood consumption may help prevent advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in seniors. Additionally, a new test called pattern electroretinogram (PERGLA) shows promise for early detection of glaucoma by measuring retinal ganglion cell function.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateDec 1, 2010

Who cleans the welfare state?

Migrant domestic workers face exploitation and social exclusion in Sweden's formal labor market. The report highlights the dual consequences of tax deductions on processes of inclusion and exclusion. Key findings reveal the persistence of informal services despite tax deductions and the vulnerability of undocumented migrant workers.

Researchers identify gene tied to extremely rare disorder that causes inflammation and loss of fat

UT Southwestern researchers have identified a gene responsible for JMP syndrome, an extremely rare disorder characterized by severe joint stiffness, muscle loss, and panniculitis-induced lipodystrophy. The proteasome subunit beta-type 8 (PSMB8) gene mutation affects immune cell function, leading to inflammation and fat loss.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 1, 2010

Half of emergency care doctors prone to burn-out

A recent French survey reveals that one in two emergency care doctors are prone to burn-out, with tension between home and working life being a significant factor. Poor teamwork also significantly increases the risk of burn-out among these physicians.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalEmergency Medicine Journal·DateDec 1, 2010

Where is mathematics in Europe?

The European Science Foundation recommends creating a CERN-like Institute for Mathematics to bridge the gap between math research and industry, promoting collaboration and innovation. This would enable small and medium enterprises to access expertise and funds, driving economic growth and job creation.

Study identifies promising biomarkers for Huntington's disease that could be used to test disease-modifying treatments

A new study has identified promising biomarkers for Huntington's disease that could be used to track disease progression and test potential disease-modifying treatments. Biomarkers were found in brain imaging techniques, including whole-brain and striatal atrophy, which increased at a higher rate in individuals with the disease.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateDec 1, 2010

Plant clock gene also works in human cells

Researchers identified a plant clock gene that works in human cells and vice versa, with similar function. The study suggests convergent evolution as the explanation for this phenomenon, highlighting the importance of maintaining accurate circadian rhythms in both plants and humans.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2010

Long term exposure to pesticides may be linked to dementia

A study of 614 vineyard workers in South West France found a link between long-term pesticide exposure and declining cognitive abilities, including lower scores on memory and recall tests. The researchers suggest that higher risks of dementia may be associated with pesticide exposure.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateDec 1, 2010

Discovery triples number of stars in universe

Astronomers at Yale University have discovered that small red dwarfs are much more prolific than previously believed, increasing the total number of stars in the universe. The discovery found 20 times more red dwarfs in elliptical galaxies than in the Milky Way, with potential implications for galaxy formation and evolution.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateDec 1, 2010

Poor stream health imperils fish

The southeastern United States is home to a diverse array of fish species, but poor stream health poses a significant threat to their survival. The region's growing population and increasing demands on water resources have led to widespread degradation of aquatic habitats.

New psychology theory at Rensselaer enables computers to mimic human creativity

A new explanation of how humans solve problems creatively has been introduced, providing a roadmap for building systems that perform like humans. The theory proposes the coexistence of two types of knowledge and processing: explicit and implicit. By incorporating this principle, computers can now mimic human creativity in problem-solving.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalPsychological Review·DateDec 1, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 1, 2010

Researchers identified a crucial protein, LXR-beta, involved in the negative side effects of glucocorticoid drugs. Targeting this protein may lead to safer drug designs. Additionally, TXNL2 is found to protect human breast cancer cells from oxidative stress, while mutations in SLC1A1 cause rare kidney disorder dicarboxylic aminoaciduria.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2010

Finger length points to prostate cancer risk

Men with longer index fingers are at a lower risk of developing prostate cancer, while those with shorter index fingers are more likely to be diagnosed. The study found that men aged under 60 were 87% less likely to have prostate cancer if their index finger was longer than their ring finger.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBritish Journal of Cancer·DateDec 1, 2010