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Science News for August 13, 2006


Panel updates guidelines for treatment of adult HIV infection

The International AIDS Society-USA Panel has updated guidelines for the treatment of adult HIV infection, recommending antiretroviral therapy for all symptomatic and asymptomatic adults with CD4 counts below 350/μL. The new guidelines also emphasize the importance of adherence to therapy and regular monitoring of plasma HIV-1 RNA levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 13, 2006

Ancient war paint in fight against breast cancer

A study by Stefania Galletti and her team has identified a plant-based source of the anti-cancer compound glucobrassicin, which has shown effectiveness against breast cancer. The researchers found that wounding leaves can increase levels of glucobrassicin, highlighting its potential as a natural defense mechanism.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateAug 13, 2006

When the going gets tough, slime molds start synthesizing

Researchers at Salk Institute and MRC discovered how slime molds synthesise the chemical signal DIF-1 using a unique type III PKS domain arrangement. This discovery informs the development of more efficient methods for producing modified polyketides for human use, highlighting the complexity of natural chemicals in biological systems.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 13, 2006

Researchers explore how religious garment defines a new generation of women

A new study by Rhys Williams and Gira Vashi finds that the hijab provides a clear identity marker for young American Muslim women, allowing them to carve out their own place in the Western world. The research also shows how the hijab symbolizes modesty and moral purity in an American culture perceived as materialistic.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalSociety for the Study of Chinese Religions Bulletin·DateAug 13, 2006