The 'supernova of a generation' shows its stuff
Astronomers have determined how a Type Ia supernova occurs, involving a dense white dwarf and main-sequence star. The study provides new insights into the universe's expansion and cosmic origins.
Science News Archive December 2011
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Cotton fabric cleans itself when exposed to ordinary sunlight
Scientists have developed a new cotton fabric that uses a titanium dioxide coating to clean itself of stains and bacteria when exposed to ordinary sunlight. The coating accelerates discoloration processes and remains intact after washing and drying.
Overall hospital admission rates in US linked with high rates of readmission
A new study finds that overall hospital admission rates are a significant factor in high readmission rates across different US regions. The research suggests that improving transitional care may not be enough to address the root cause of the problem.
At Senate Aging Committee's 50th anniversary, experts ponder future legislative concerns
The Senate Aging Committee's 50th anniversary highlights pressing issues facing older Americans, including housing, healthcare, and workforce changes. Experts advocate for policy reforms to meet the needs of an aging society, emphasizing intergenerational cooperation and inclusivity.
The Concord Consortium awarded multi-million dollar Google grant
The Concord Consortium has received a $2.5 million grant from Google.org to create digital curricula that model the 'textbook of tomorrow.' The organization aims to provide deeply digital learning experiences for science, mathematics, and engineering.
Low iron levels in blood give clue to blood clot risk
Researchers found that treating iron deficiency may help prevent potentially lethal blood clots, as low iron levels are strongly associated with higher levels of factor VIII and increased risk of pulmonary emboli/deep venous thromboses. The study suggests a potential new risk factor for blood clots in the general population.
Complex sex life of goats could have implications for wildlife management
A new study reveals that male chamois in different populations employ distinct breeding strategies, including 'terminal investment', where they focus on reproduction later in life. This variation could have implications for wildlife management, particularly when it comes to hunting practices.
Local man turns Parkinson's diagnosis into mission to find a cure
Paul Ruby, diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's in 2006, founded the Paul Ruby Foundation to raise funds for Northwestern Medicine researchers working towards a cure. The foundation has contributed over $325,000 to Parkinson's research, including a recent $100,000 gift.
How exposure to irregular light affects plant circadian rhythms
Researchers found that chrysanthemum plants adapted to irregular light periods, promoting rapid leaf development. The study's results suggest that these changes can be induced by low average light intensity, potentially reducing supplemental lighting costs in greenhouses.
Twisting molecules by brute force: A top-down approach
Scientists have developed a top-down approach to impose chirality on non-chiral molecules, which could lead to custom-designed properties and desired effects in various fields. The researchers created a twist by rotating liquid crystal molecules along different directions, resulting in induced chirality.
140 new species described by California Academy of Sciences in 2011
The California Academy of Sciences discovered 140 new species in 2011, including arthropods, sea slugs, fishes, plants, sponges, corals, and a reptile. These findings add to the family tree of life on Earth and provide crucial information for conservation decisions.
HPV testing best cervical screening option for all women over the age of 30
The POBASCAM trial found HPV testing to be more sensitive and effective at detecting precancerous lesions, with fewer high-grade cervical lesions and cervical cancer in the second round of screening. HPV testing can lead to earlier detection and treatment of lesions, improving protection against cervical cancer.
Blue marlin blues: Loss of dissolved oxygen in oceans squeezes billfish habitat
A new study shows that expanding 'ocean dead zones' driven by climate change is shrinking the useable habitat for blue marlin and other pelagic fish in the tropical northeast Atlantic Ocean. This compression of habitat due to low oxygen levels threatens the sustainability of these fisheries.
How doctors make diagnoses
Researchers used functional MRI to assess cerebral activity in doctors while they diagnosed lesions. The results showed that the brain areas active during this task were strikingly similar to those activated while naming line drawings of animals.
Patients at risk of knee joint complications when new technology is used
Introducing new knee replacement models can lead to increased risk of early revision surgery, especially for the first 15 patients. A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that hospital staff must consider the consequences of their decisions when choosing implants and instruments.
London researchers lead innovative new cancer treatment study
Scientists at Lawson Research Institute are testing stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) to treat cancers that spread beyond the original tumor, offering new hope for survival. The COMET Trial aims to assess SABR's impact on patient survival, side effects, and quality of life.
Optical fiber innovation could make future optical computers a 'SNAP'
Researchers have developed a precise method to create microresonators in optical fibers, enabling the creation of 'Whispering Gallery' structures that can store tiny packets of light. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize computing with faster calculations and more efficient memory storage.
Does caffeine enhance exercise performance? The debate continues
A roundtable discussion published in Journal of Caffeine Research explores whether caffeine enhances athletic performance, with experts noting mixed study data and various factors affecting its impact. The journal also covers a wide range of effects on human health, including mood disorders and cardiovascular disease.
Artichokes grow big in Texas
A new study by Texas AgriLife Research found that artichoke yield and quality are optimized through differential irrigation regimes and nitrogen fertilizer rates. The researchers recommend approximately 700 mm of water inputs and 120 kg/ha or less of N for high marketable yields and optimal nutritional quality.
Supernova caught in the act
Astronomers detected a nearby Type Ia supernova with unprecedented observation of initial stages, characterizing the nature of forming stars. NSF's Cyber-Enabled Discovery program supported computational framework for rapid detection and characterization.
Work in cells, animals, patients reveals toxin's role in asthma
A toxin produced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been found to initiate and intensify asthma and other allergic airway diseases in humans, animals, and patients. The discovery is supported by a $11.5 million grant and provides new insights into the role of chronic infectious states in lung disease.
Missouri Botanical Garden scientists examine toxicity of medicinal plants in Peru
A study by the Missouri Botanical Garden found that over 24% of water extracts and 76% of alcoholic extracts from Peruvian medicinal plant species contained elevated toxicity levels. This highlights the need for proper preparation methods to account for varying toxicity levels in traditional remedies.
Crows show advanced learning abilities
New Caledonian crows show expertise in tool use, adapting their technique to optimize performance. The study reveals that these crows possess cognitive mechanisms beyond simple associative learning, allowing them to understand the functional properties of novel tool types.
New ONR technology will enable ship systems to share information seamlessly
The Office of Naval Research has demonstrated a new suite of information technology tools that could improve fleet operations by enabling seamless data sharing between ship systems. The technology, known as the universal gateway system, securely passes data between a ship's combat system network and its command-and-control network.
New food allergy model for fenugreek developed
A new mouse model has been developed to study allergy to fenugreek, a common ingredient in Asian dishes. The model can also be used to understand suspected cross-reactivity with peanuts and other legumes, which may pose a special problem for food-allergic people.
Molecular markers can predict spread of cancer, guide treatment
Researchers found that tumors with high microRNA-200c levels are more likely to spread and those with lower levels may benefit from focused local treatment. This discovery could help identify patients who can benefit from aggressive, targeted radiation therapy and move them away from whole-body treatments.
Life on Kosterhavet's seabed analyzed
Genoveva Gonzalez Mirelis analyzed over 2 million map tiles in Kosterhavet National Park to create a spatial distribution of benthic communities, including deepwater corals and Norway lobster. This method can help preserve environments and species for future generations by informing marine planning and regulations.
Computerized tool takes a bite out of traditional apple testing
Researchers developed a new pentrometer to measure apple crispness, improving accuracy and reducing errors in traditional sensory analysis methods. The study found significant correlations between the computerized penetrometer's data and expert panel ratings, demonstrating its potential for large-scale apple breeding programs.
Studies identify causes, risk factors for stillbirth
Researchers found common causes of stillbirth to be obstetric complications and placental abnormalities, with previous pregnancy loss also linked to increased risk. The study's findings highlight the need for thorough investigation into cause of death and development of interventions to prevent stillbirths.
The mystery behind the building of muscle
Researchers at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute have identified two cell surface proteins, Jamb and Jamc, crucial for muscle cell fusion. The discovery sheds light on cellular fusion and its importance in muscle development, potentially leading to new treatments for muscle-wasting disorders.
Using many instruments to track a comet
The Solar Heliophysics Observatory (SOHO) has discovered a new Kreutz-family comet, C/2011 W3 (Lovejoy), through ground-based telescope observations. This is the first time a Kreutz comet has been found in this way since the 1970s, providing scientists with an opportunity to study it before it moves into view of space-based telescopes.
Studies identify most common causes, risk factors for stillbirth
Researchers found that obstetric conditions, genetic abnormalities, and infections were common causes of stillbirth. The study also identified racial disparities in stillbirth rates, with black women more likely to experience stillbirths during pregnancy or childbirth.
NASA's Voyager spacecraft that toured outer planets nearing solar system edge
Voyager 1 has sailed to the edge of the solar system and is expected to punch its way into interstellar space in the coming months or years. The spacecraft was launched in 1977 and completed the Grand Tour of the Solar System, making numerous groundbreaking discoveries about the outer planets and their moons.
Biopsy referral after PSA screening stays consistent over time
A study found that biopsy referral rates for men with high PSA levels remained stable despite recent recommendations to lower the threshold. Biopsies became slightly less common over time, likely due to growing awareness of overdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Cholesterol-lowering medication accelerates depletion of plaque in arteries
Researchers discovered how statins promote the breakdown of plaque by activating a cell surface receptor, forcing macrophages out of plaque. The study supports clinical findings that high-dose statins reduce cholesterol levels and plaque amount in arteries.
Some muscular dystrophy patients at increased risk for cancer
Research found that people with myotonic muscular dystrophy are at higher risk for developing four specific types of cancer. Additionally, there may be an increased risk for other cancers such as eye, thyroid, pancreas, and female reproductive organs. Patients should prioritize cancer screening, particularly colon cancer screening.
Patients with severe type of muscular dystrophy at increased risk of cancer
A study published in JAMA Network found that patients with myotonic muscular dystrophy are at an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including endometrial, brain, ovarian, and colon cancer. The study analyzed data from over 1,600 patients and found a significant excess of these cancers compared to the general population.
Was Darwin wrong about emotions?
Contrary to common belief, facial expressions may not be automatic indicators of emotions. Researcher Lisa Feldman Barrett argues that expressions are not biologically basic and cannot be recognized universally. This challenges the traditional view that certain emotional expressions evolved for specific functions.
All it takes is a smile (for some guys)
A new study found that men who are more attractive tend to overestimate women's interest in casual sex, while women underestimate men's desire. This misperception may have evolved as a strategy for increased reproductive success.
Study reveals an association between impatience and lower credit scores
A study by Columbia Business School researchers found a significant correlation between time discounting and low FICO credit scores. Participants with better patience scores had significantly higher FICO scores, indicating a potential link between impatience and poorer financial decisions.
Endangered orangutans offer a new evolutionary model for early humans
A new study on orangutans under dietary stress in Borneo reveals how their adaptation to hard, tough foods may have influenced human evolution. The research suggests that the orangutans' larger molars and more robust jaws developed in response to these challenging food sources.
'Pep talk' can revive immune cells exhausted by chronic viral infection
Researchers at Emory Vaccine Center found that infusing immune cells back into patients after a period of conditioning can revive exhausted cells. This cell-based treatment, combined with an antibody against PD-1, reduced viral levels by a factor of four and made the virus undetectable in some mice.
Meeting the 'Challenge': Office of Naval Research funds new projects
The Office of Naval Research has selected five new basic research projects for significant funding, focusing on areas such as quantum computing, sensor arrays, and materials science. The programs will receive a four-year award worth approximately $1.5 million annually.
New pink fancy-leaved caladium debuts
Researchers have introduced a new variety of caladium, 'UF-172', boasting large attractive pink blotches and red petioles, ideal for use in large containers and landscapes. The new variety outperforms existing cultivars in terms of tuber yield potential and container forcing.
Worms reveal new role for hormones in Bardet-Biedl syndrome
A new study reveals that mutations in BBS genes not only control incoming communication via cilia but also outgoing communication via hormone release, leading to restored normal body size, feeding, and metabolism in a small roundworm. This discovery opens up therapeutic avenues for the genetic disorder.
The Leopoldina moves into its new headquarters in Halle
The Leopoldina has completed its refurbishment and will start working from its new offices at Jägerberg 1 in January 2012. The new building provides room for extended staff numbers and space for scientific symposiums and public events.
Tireless research reveals secrets of the 'sleep hormone'
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre have developed a novel melatonin drug, UCM765, that selectively activates the MT2 receptor in the brain, leading to increased phases of deep sleep. This discovery may pave the way for effective treatments for insomnia, a common public health problem affecting millions worldwide.
NASA's Fermi shows that Tycho's star shines in gamma rays
Scientists use NASA's Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope to detect high-energy gamma rays from the remnant of Tycho's supernova. This detection supports the notion that supernova remnants can accelerate cosmic rays, providing clues to their origins.
Analysis examines outcomes of certain procedures at hospitals without cardiac surgery capability
A meta-analysis of studies found that PCIs at centers with and without on-site surgery have similar rates of in-hospital mortality and emergency CABG surgery. However, additional outcome data are still needed to fully understand the risks associated with non-primary PCI at centers without on-site surgery.
From teddy bears to iPhones, we overestimate what others will pay for goods
A new study by Shane Frederick reveals that people overestimate the average willingness to pay for products, with a bias of +40% across various groups. This overvaluing bias may lead to sellers setting prices too high and difficulties in negotiation.
Study explores men's ability to manage fear in ways that allow them to exhibit confidence
A recent study by Dr. Christian A. Vaccaro and colleagues found that successful mixed martial arts competitors have distinct ways of managing fear to convey a social identity to others. This 'managing emotional manhood' allows men to evoke confidence, pride, and dominance in their opponents.
Why does stating your intention lead you to purchase your favorite brand?
A study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that stating an intention to buy a product makes consumers more likely to choose their preferred brand. This motivation narrows their focus, pushing other well-liked brands to the back until the consumer has accomplished the intention.
Moffitt Cancer Center researchers find potential target for treating metastatic cancer
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have identified a chemical disrupter of the Rb-Raf-1 interaction, which may be vulnerable to targeting to prevent cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth. The study found that this disruption can limit metastasis in test mice, suggesting a potential new approach for combating metastatic disease.
Starving orangutans might help to better understand obesity and eating disorders in humans
A 5-year study on Bornean orangutans reveals they store fat when abundant food is available and use it for energy during scarcity. This research may aid in understanding human obesity and eating disorders.
Holiday shopping? Why does rubbing elbows turn consumers off?
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research reveals that crowding and accidental touch can negatively impact consumer behavior. Researchers found that customers who were brushed lightly or stood near others but not touched left stores with a negative view of products.
Despite guidelines to the contrary, practitioners recommend time off for low back pain
A new study found that most practitioners believe work factors can cause or exacerbate LBP, and recommend a 'short break from work' to allow healing. Despite guidelines encouraging maintaining people at work during episodes of back pain, many clinicians hold contradictory beliefs that influence their clinical decisions.
Scientists forecast crops that adapt to changing weather
Researchers found that protein renewal rates vary between proteins according to their role and location within cells. This knowledge could help breed crops incorporating proteins that respond quickly to changing conditions.
2 Pitt professors named Fellows by the American Association for the Advancement of Science
Two University of Pittsburgh professors, Anthony Grace and Christian Schunn, have been recognized as AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking work in cognition and STEM fields. Their research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of schizophrenia and bridging cognitive science research on reasoning and learning in STEM.
Angioplasties performed at centers without on-site surgery services are safe, study finds
Mayo Clinic researchers found that elective angioplasties performed without on-site cardiac surgery capabilities pose no increased risk for patient death or emergency bypass surgery. The study included thousands of patients and showed mortality rates were similar for centers with and without on-site surgery.
Nanoparticles help Mayo Clinic researcher deliver steroids to retina
Researchers have developed an intracellular, sustained-release drug delivery system using nanoparticles called dendrimers, targeting neuroinflammation in the retina. The treatment protects vision by preventing injury to photoreceptors and reduces neuroinflammation, providing potential relief for millions of patients worldwide.