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Science News Archive March 2008 - Page 7


Page 7 of 19

'Jumping gene' may contribute to a premature aging syndrome

Researchers have discovered a fusion protein that may contribute to Cockayne syndrome, a debilitating disorder marked by premature aging and neurodegeneration. The study suggests that the CSB gene's continued expression of CSB-related proteins or protein fragments plays a crucial role in the disease's development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 20, 2008

Motor neuron disease and toxic substances: Possible link?

A team of University of Michigan scientists has identified a possible link between genetic mutations and toxic substance exposure in the development of motor neuron disease. The study found that abnormal protein changes caused by organophosphate exposure may contribute to the disease, offering new leads for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 20, 2008

Study verifies that cholesterol-associated gene variants can predict cardiovascular events

A study led by Massachusetts General Hospital confirms that a combination of gene variants associated with cholesterol levels reflect patients' cholesterol levels and increase risk of heart attack, stroke, or sudden cardiac death. The study's findings provide a foundation for personalized medicine and may lead to the development of mor...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2008

Tug of war in the cells

In a tug-of-war-like mechanism, opposing motor teams determine the direction of cargo transport in cells. The winning team transports cargo quickly, while losing motors are removed from the microtubule.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2008

Spotting the next GM-like controversy before it happens

UK scientists identify 25 new biodiversity threats and opportunities until 2050, prioritizing research to mitigate surprise issues like GM crops. Horizon scanning aims to inform policy decisions, cutting the need for last-minute fixes on foreseeable problems.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateMar 19, 2008

Less can be more, for plant breeders too

Researchers have developed a tool to rapidly silence specific genes in rice, enabling faster breeding and improved crop performance. This breakthrough uses artificial miRNAs to target and disable genes of interest, with potential applications in hybrid seed production and enhanced resistance to pathogens and insects.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 19, 2008

Scientists see Norwalk virus' Achilles heel

Researchers at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron have determined the structure of the enzyme responsible for the Norwalk virus's genetic replication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of drugs that can effectively treat outbreaks of this highly contagious and untreatable bug.

SourceCanadian Light Source, Inc.·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 19, 2008

AGU Journal Highlights -- March 19, 2008

A new study finds that higher CO2 concentrations increase phytoplankton productivity in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, promoting larger diatom chains. Additionally, research suggests that to stabilize global temperatures, future greenhouse gas emissions must be eliminated, committing the climate system to warming on centennial timescales.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 19, 2008

Drug prevents dangerous tick diseases

A single injection of doxycycline hyclate has shown 100% effectiveness in preventing Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis in mice, offering a promising new treatment option. Researchers are planning to test different release kinetics and delivery methods to develop a slow-release patch for broader protection.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateMar 19, 2008

Disgusting videos used to study coping methods

Researchers used fMRI to study two emotion regulation techniques: cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression. Cognitive reappraisal reduced negative emotions by reinterpretating the meaning of disgusting images, while expressive suppression increased neural activity in the amygdala and insula.

SourceStanford University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 19, 2008

Sleep deprivation used to diagnose sleepwalking

A new study found that sleep deprivation can precipitate sleepwalking in predisposed individuals and may serve as a valuable tool in diagnosing the disorder. The study showed that sleep deprivation significantly increased the proportion of sleepwalkers experiencing complex episodes, facilitating diagnosis.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 19, 2008

Does ADHD look the same in youth of different races?

A study examines childhood ADHD in underrepresented minorities, highlighting obstacles faced by families and providing recommendations for assessment and treatment. Effective treatments exist, but many minority children lack culturally sensitive assessments, potentially leading to devastating results.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateMar 19, 2008

Findings could improve fuel cell efficiency

Researchers at Duke University have developed a ceramic membrane that allows fuel cells to operate at low humidity and higher temperatures, potentially improving efficiency. This new membrane could address current limitations in fuel cell technology and attract investment for its commercialization.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateMar 19, 2008