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Science News for June 28, 2011


Fidgeting your way to fitness

Researchers found that increasing incidental physical activity, such as fidgeting at desks or taking short walks, can significantly improve cardiorespiratory fitness. The study, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, highlights the importance of moderate physical activity throughout the day for overall health and wellness.

SourceQueen's University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJun 28, 2011

Analyzing agroforestry management

Scientists developed a conceptual framework to diagnose nutrient and non-nutrient interactions in agroecosystems, increasing yields and reducing environmental costs. The model considers both nutrient and non-nutrient resource effects on growth, such as light conditions and soil moisture content.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 28, 2011

Will new drugs block hepatitis C virus in its tracks?

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a powerful way to suppress hepatitis C by targeting different parts of the virus. Two prototype small molecule drugs, p7 inhibitors, attack the virus in distinct ways, suggesting they could be used together with 'direct-acting' drugs for more effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalHepatology·DateJun 28, 2011

GSA Bulletin highlights: New research posted June 24, 2011

Two studies highlight the relationship between neotectonic activity and rockslide failures, with a third investigation into salinity control on parasequence development in ancient carbonate platforms. Researchers found that rock fracturing due to neotectonic activity is a major conditioning factor for failures, while changes in coastal...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateJun 28, 2011

New measurement important complement to GI

A new measurement called 'glycemic profile' (GP) was developed to complement the existing glycemic index (GI) method. GP takes into account the shape and duration of the blood sugar curve after consuming a meal, providing a more accurate picture of the glucose response.

SourceLund University·JournalNutrition Journal·DateJun 28, 2011

Rockin' tortoises: A 150-year-old new species

A new species of desert tortoise, Gopherus morafkai, has been discovered after 150 years, revealing the existence of a previously unknown population in Arizona and northwestern Mexico. This discovery highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJun 28, 2011

Gene flow may help plants adapt to climate change

A study on gene flow in Sierra Nevada cutleaved monkeyflower found that mixing genes from warmer and cooler elevations improves the plant's ability to thrive in a changing environment. This technique can be used to augment genetic resources for imperiled populations, enabling them to better adapt to climate change.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2011

Tapping titanium's colorful potential

A cost-effective method for coloring titanium using an electrochemical solution has been developed, enabling over 80 shades of basic colors and crack-free stability. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including healthcare, aviation, and the military.

SourceQueen's University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 28, 2011

The smell of danger

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a single compound found in carnivore urine that triggers an instinctual avoidance response in mice and rats, providing crucial tools to study the neural circuitry associated with innate behavior. The discovery reveals a key role for volatile chemicals in predator-rodent interactions.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 28, 2011

Sweating the small stuff: Early adversity, prior depression linked to high sensitivity to stress

A new study suggests that people with early life adversity or prior depressive episodes are more sensitive to later life stress. Individuals who experienced early parental loss or separation and those with a history of depression became depressed following lower levels of life stress than those without these predisposing factors.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateJun 28, 2011

HIV disrupts blood-brain barrier

A recent study found that HIV infection in astrocytes breaks down the blood-brain barrier, leading to cognitive impairment and other neurological complications. The researchers suggest that minute numbers of infected astrocytes can trigger a cascade of signals that open the brain to toxic influences.

Biocides that attack only insects

Researchers have created biocides with micro-encapsulation that are less toxic to the environment while maintaining effectiveness against airborne insects. The product also shows improved solubility in water and reduced handling difficulties.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental & Analytical Chemistry·DateJun 28, 2011

Gene variant increases fatty liver risk and fibrosis progression

A new study found that a specific gene variant, PNPLA3 rs738409, is linked to an increased risk of developing fatty liver and faster fibrosis progression in people with chronic hepatitis C. The study suggests this genetic predictor may also be used as a potential therapeutic target for treating the condition.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateJun 28, 2011

Jackson Pollock, artist and physicist?

A mathematical analysis of Pollock's work highlights his deliberate and calculated approach to natural phenomena. The study reveals that Pollock exploited fluid dynamics to create unique aesthetic effects, blurring the line between art and science.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPhysics Today·DateJun 28, 2011

Domed dinosaur king of the head butt

Researchers analyzed the heads of pachycephalosaur dinosaurs and compared them to modern animals that engage in head butting. They found that the bony anatomy of pachycephalosaur domes is better at protecting the brain than in any modern head-butting animal.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 28, 2011