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Science News Archive November 2011


Page 1 of 28

Super athletic mice are fit because their muscles burn more sugar

Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute discovered a way to reprogram muscle cells to burn sugar more efficiently, resulting in increased athletic ability and reduced lactic acid production. This novel mechanism could lead to new prevention or treatment methods for obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 30, 2011
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.

Petroleum-eating mushrooms

Researchers B. Franz Lang and Mohamed Hijri have identified mushroom species that can consume petroleum, offering a breakthrough in soil decontamination. The discovery is based on phytoremediation principles, where microorganisms play a key role in degrading contaminants.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateNov 30, 2011

British butterfly is evolving to respond to climate change

New research reveals that climate change is causing certain species to adapt to new habitats, helping them track ongoing warming. The Brown Argus butterfly has successfully expanded its distribution northwards in the UK, using a range of distinct habitats.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateNov 30, 2011

Engineered botulism toxins could have broader role in medicine

Scientists re-engineered botulism toxins to target non-nerve cells, blocking inflammation-linked protein release. This could expand treatment options for chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, reducing risks associated with nerve cell disruption.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiochemistry·DateNov 30, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

MAKS: Drug-free prevention of dementia decline

Researchers found that a year-long Maks therapy, combining motor stimulation, cognitive exercises, and daily living activities, halted the progression of dementia in patients. This therapy showed similar results to cholinesterase inhibitors, but with twice as much effect on daily living tasks.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateNov 30, 2011

Unlocking the genetic and molecular mystery of soft-tissue sarcoma

Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center have identified two major molecular signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and division, hallmarks of cancer biology. The study provides new candidate targets for treating soft-tissue sarcomas, which can be controlled but not cured by current treatments.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2011

UBC study explores distrust of atheists by believers

A UBC study explores the social psychological processes underlying anti-atheist sentiments, finding that religious believer's distrust is central to prejudice against atheists. The research suggests that outward displays of belief may be viewed as a proxy for trustworthiness, leading to disapproval and mistrust of atheists.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 30, 2011
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Biocompatible graphene transistor array reads cellular signals

Researchers demonstrate graphene-based transistor array compatible with living cells, recording electrical signals generated by individual nerve cells. The platform shows potential for future bioelectronic applications, including brain-eye-ear implants to compensate for neural damage.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 30, 2011
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.

Lithosphere highlights for Dec. 2011

Research highlights the age of continental crust, with over 60% originating in the Archean, 2.5 billion years ago. A new paleomagnetic pole for chron 32 corrects for spreading-rate dependence, improving skewness data accuracy. Seismic ambient noise analysis reveals structural alignments in the Chile Ridge Subduction Region.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateNov 30, 2011
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Researchers' new recipe cooks up better tissue 'phantoms'

Scientists have created a novel combination of additives that enable gelatin to mimic the acoustical and optical properties of soft tissue in humans. The resulting tissue 'phantoms' can be used to test photoacoustic and ultrasonic imaging technologies, which are increasingly being used in clinical applications.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateNov 30, 2011

Is transparency bad for science?

The article discusses the controversy surrounding science transparency, with some scientists arguing that data sharing and freedom of information can hinder their work. Researchers like Fred Pearce argue that openness would have prevented time-consuming debates between climate deniers and scientists.

SourceSAGE·JournalIndex on Censorship·DateNov 30, 2011

Bush embryonic stem cell lines different from newly derived cell lines

Researchers found that newly derived human embryonic stem cell lines have a better molecular signature than established lines, indicating higher quality and potentially better performance in disease modeling. The study suggests that maintaining the original state of X chromosome inactivation could be crucial for achieving optimal results.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateNov 30, 2011

A dash of physics thrown into the cocktail mix

Top bartenders are ditching trial and error for a more measured approach to cocktail making, inspired by physics techniques. Rotary evaporators and thermocouples help extract flavors and balance the taste of cocktails, such as martinis and manhattans.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateNov 30, 2011
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Chemical warfare of stealthy silverfish

Researchers found that silverfish steal the ant's scent to avoid being killed or rejected from the nest. By continually updating this scent, the silverfish remain protected from ant aggression. This co-evolutionary arms race highlights the ants' complex scent recognition system and the silverfish's elaborate behavioral adaptations.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateNov 30, 2011

MIT: New algorithm may improve defensive driving

Researchers developed an algorithm that accurately identifies potential 'red-light violators' within seconds, reducing false alarms. The algorithm's accuracy surpasses existing safety-prediction technologies, with a 85% success rate in identifying violators.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateNov 30, 2011

In a star's final days, astronomers hunt 'signal of impending doom'

Researchers studying a binary star system in the Whirlpool Galaxy have detected a star dimming noticeably before its companion exploded in a supernova. The study provides evidence that certain patterns of brightening and dimming may signal an impending doom for stars, making it possible to predict when a star is near death.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 30, 2011

Health-care providers should be alert to risk of suicide among pregnant women and new mothers

A University of Michigan Health System-led analysis of federal data found that over half of women who killed themselves had a known mental health diagnosis, with mood disorder being the most common. The study highlights the importance of identifying risk factors in pregnant and postpartum women to intervene and prevent suicide.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalGeneral Hospital Psychiatry·DateNov 30, 2011
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Stronger corn? Take it off steroids, make it all female

Researchers at Purdue University have found a naturally occurring mutation in corn that eliminates the need for detasseling, a labor-intensive process. The mutation, which affects brassinosteroids, results in plants that produce only female organs, including kernels where male tassels should be.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2011

The newest of the new in gene therapy: 'Tag and target and exchange'

Scientists have developed a new approach to gene therapy using site-specific recombinases from yeast and phages, allowing for precise genetic modifications. This technique has the potential to improve efficiency and effectiveness of experimental gene therapies while reducing side effects.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateNov 30, 2011
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Artificial leaf could debut new era of 'fast-food energy'

The artificial leaf technology uses sunlight and renewable ingredients to produce electricity, with the potential to power homes in developing countries. The technology has the potential to provide a low-cost solution for generating electricity, making it an attractive option for households and communities.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 30, 2011

Magnetic pole reversal happens all the (geologic) time

Magnetic pole reversals occur frequently over millions of years, with hundreds of occurrences recorded in the past three billion years. The process is gradual and does not have significant effects on plant or animal life, climate, or glaciation.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2011

Self-monitoring of blood-thinning treatment almost halves risk of developing blood clots compared with conventional care

A meta-analysis found that self-monitoring of oral anticoagulation therapy with vitamin K antagonists reduced the risk of thromboembolic events, such as deep vein thrombosis and stroke, by 49% compared to conventional care. Self-monitoring was particularly beneficial for younger patients and those with mechanical heart valves.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 30, 2011
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Marzipan Santas, elves and stollen: Real deal or cheap fakes?

A new test developed by scientists can accurately detect contaminants in marzipan pastes, including cheap substitutes made from soy and peas. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method can identify small amounts of almond substitutes as little as 0.1%.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 30, 2011

Trauma drug first for civilian ambulance service

The South West Ambulance Service will introduce TXA for civilian trauma patients, which has shown a 30% reduction in death from bleeding when used within three hours of trauma. The cost of the drug is estimated to be £2,560 in year one, with potential savings of many lives and reduced trauma-related disability.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·DateNov 30, 2011

Hull research proves color is not a black and white issue

Scientists at the University of Hull found that highly suggestible individuals can see colours in monochrome patterns and experience changes in brain activity under hypnosis. The study suggests that these abilities exist independently of hypnosis and may be useful for medical interventions, such as pain control.

SourceUniversity of Hull·JournalConsciousness and Cognition·DateNov 30, 2011
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Astronomers look to neighboring galaxy for star formation insight

Researchers mapped over 100 molecular clouds in the LMC and found many low-mass clouds, contradicting conventional wisdom. The team hopes to learn more about the metamorphosis of gas clouds into stars.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateNov 30, 2011

Improving patient care by improving nurses' work environment

A new study published in Health Care Management Review found that physical environment, workgroup cohesion, and job satisfaction have a significant impact on nurses' ratings of patient care quality. Improving these factors can lead to better patient outcomes without requiring increases in nurse staffing.

SourceNew York University·JournalHealth Care Management Review·DateNov 30, 2011

Violent video games alter brain function in young men

A study found that playing violent video games for one week reduced activation in certain brain regions associated with emotional control and aggressive behavior in young adult men. After two weeks without game play, the changes were diminished.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2011

A Spanish botanist searches for prehistoric flora refuges in China

Researchers use ancient species distribution to identify areas where vegetation resisted glaciations, providing insights into plant conservation and evolution. The study highlights the importance of mountain ranges like the Hengduan in preserving relic flora.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateNov 30, 2011
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Eating fish reduces risk of Alzheimer's disease

A study found that consuming baked or broiled fish on a weekly basis preserves gray matter volume in areas at risk for Alzheimer's disease. This reduction in risk is associated with improved cognitive function, particularly working memory.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2011

Prior hospitalization for mental illness increases death risk in patients with chest pains

A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that patients with a history of psychiatric hospitalization have a higher rate of death from any cause and cardiovascular disease compared to those without such a history. This increased risk was seen across both men and women, particularly among younger individuals.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 30, 2011

Medical researchers in Canada and the US discover hidden side of prion diseases

Medical researchers have discovered a hidden process that erases the shadoo protein in infected brains, up to seven months before physical symptoms of prion diseases like BSE or mad cow disease appear. This new understanding opens up research opportunities into attenuating the disease.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateNov 30, 2011

UC research examines home births –- then and now

A University of Cincinnati researcher is comparing historical data on home births from the 1970s with current trends, highlighting similarities in higher education levels among women opting for home births. In contrast, physician attendance at home births has decreased significantly over time, according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateNov 30, 2011

Earthquakes: Water as a lubricant

Researchers found that rock water acts as a lubricant, causing significant differences in mechanical properties along the fault at depth. This supports the idea that fluids play a key role in the onset of earthquakes, and tremor signals are linked to areas with trapped fluids.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 2011
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

In the Dragonfish's mouth: The next generation of superstars to stir up our galaxy

Researchers have found the largest batch of young, supermassive stars yet observed in our galaxy, including dozens of massive blue stars. The intense light emitted by these newborn stars has carved out a glowing hollow shell around them, offering a unique opportunity to study energy transmission and star formation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 30, 2011

Surgeons perform better with eye movement training

Research by the University of Exeter shows that trainee surgeons learn technical surgical skills more quickly and deal better with stress if taught to mimic expert eye movements. The study highlights the potential for 'gaze training' to speed up initial skill learning, getting trainees ready for the operating room earlier.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalSurgical Endoscopy·DateNov 30, 2011

Texas drought visible in new national groundwater maps

The record-breaking Texas drought has reduced groundwater levels in much of the state to their lowest levels in over 60 years. The latest maps from NASA's Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites show severely depressed groundwater levels, indicating a prolonged drying effect.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 30, 2011

Study shows hospice caregivers need routine care interventions

A study led by the University of Kentucky found that hospice family caregivers experience 'second-order patient' stress due to caregiving tasks and emotional impact. Researchers recommend routine care interventions to address these unique needs and improve caregiver outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalQualitative Health Research·DateNov 30, 2011
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

From gene to function

Researchers have identified 68 genetic variants involved in platelet formation, including a novel role for tropomyosin 1 in platelet production. The study found that genes associated with heart attacks and strokes overlap with those affecting platelets, offering potential new targets for treatments.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature·DateNov 30, 2011