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Science News for September 28, 2012


Learning to live on Mars

A study by researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital successfully controls space-age jetlag on Mars using a fatigue management program. The program, which educated participants on resetting their body clocks, improved sleep, alertness, and performance.

Researchers find multiple similarities between cancer cells and induced pluripotent stem cells

A new study by UC Davis researchers found that induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) share significant similarities with malignant cancer cells, highlighting the need for caution in clinical use. The findings suggest that iPSCs could cause cancer and may require additional safety measures before they can be used to treat diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateSep 28, 2012

Loop the loop, DNA style

Researchers at EMBL and Oxford University found that gene loops can turn bi-directional promoters into one-way systems, controlling transcription direction. This discovery enables bidirectional regulation of genes, allowing cells to adjust the spread of regulation throughout the genome.

Songs in the key of sea

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have created a musical representation of microbial data, revealing intriguing patterns and relationships. The 'sonified' data showcases the natural structures in oceanic environments, offering a new way to visualize biological phenomena.

Local funding leads to big things in parrot genomics

The genome sequence of the critically endangered Puerto Rican Parrot was successfully assembled using locally funded community efforts. The project showcases how accessible genomic technology has become, with a small institution in Puerto Rico achieving this feat without relying on large international genome centers.

SourceGigaScience·JournalGigaScience·DateSep 28, 2012

Autism Speaks awards nearly $5 million

Autism Speaks has awarded nearly $5 million in research grants to support various studies on autism, including the effects of pregnancy medications on future generations. These grants will fund projects that aim to identify biomarkers for response to autism medications, develop new interventions, and expand food choices for picky eater...

Bored? Researchers shed light on why

A new study defines boredom as a mental state fueled by attention failures, leading to frustration and potential dangers such as accidents, impulse control issues, and mortality. The researchers aim to stimulate further research to understand and address the issue.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateSep 28, 2012

What makes surgeons happy?

A study led by Dr. Najma Ahmed found that lack of control over resources and work-life balance contribute to dissatisfaction among general surgeons. Surgeons cite enjoying patient interactions and resolving problems quickly as key sources of satisfaction.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateSep 28, 2012