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Science News Archive May 2008 - Page 18


Page 18 of 22

Seagulls: Are males the weaker sex?

Researchers found that males hatch faster than females when isolated, but are disadvantaged in social environments, leading to poorer hatching conditions. Females have an upper hand in responding to environmental challenges during embryonic development.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMay 7, 2008

Molecular espionage shows a single HIV enzyme's many tasks

Researchers have discovered that reverse transcriptase, the target of major anti-HIV drugs, can flip between binding orientations to facilitate two distinct catalytic activities. This dynamic behavior is regulated by nonnucleoside RT inhibitors, which hinder the enzyme's ability to convert single-stranded DNA to double-stranded DNA.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008

New target for Alzheimer's disease identified

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have found that modulating enkephalin peptides in the brain may reduce cognitive deficits seen in Alzheimer's disease. Increased levels of preproenkephalin mRNA and enkephalins in brain regions affected by AD were observed, suggesting a potential new therapy target.

Superbug genome sequenced

The genome of Steno, a newly emerging superbug, has been sequenced, revealing an organism with exceptional drug resistance. Understanding its genetic makeup may help researchers develop biochemical compounds to combat this resistance.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalGenome Biology·DateMay 7, 2008

Genetic 'tag team' keeps cells on cycle

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a genetic 'tag team' that regulates the cell cycle, finding that nearly 70% of periodic genes continue to turn on and off without cyclins. The study suggests a new understanding of gene regulation in mammalian cells.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008

Data presented at the APA Annual Meeting

Data presented at the APA Annual Meeting demonstrate iloperidone's efficacy and safety in treating schizophrenia, with low rates of movement disorders and metabolic adverse events. Pharmacogenetic findings suggest potential for individualized treatment based on genetic markers.

Sounding out Congo Red

Researchers have developed an approach to degrading Congo Red using ultrasound technology, transforming it into less toxic intermediates. This method combines the power of sonolysis with conventional industrial waste water biodegradation treatment, effectively removing the color and reducing toxicity from dye-contaminated effluent.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Waste Management·DateMay 6, 2008

Why face symmetry is sexy across cultures and species

Research finds symmetry and sexual dimorphism in human faces are related to attractiveness, supporting the idea that they signal genetic quality. The study also reveals similar patterns in non-human primates and different human populations, indicating universal signals of quality.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 6, 2008

Prions show their good side

Normally functioning prions prevent neurons from self-destruction by inducing overactive brain cells that respond longer and more vigorously to stimulation. This hyperactivity eventually leads to neuron death, potentially explaining why misfolded prions cause dementia.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMay 6, 2008

Child abuse may 'mark' genes in the brains of suicide victims

A study by McGill University scientists found that child abuse may cause differences in epigenetic marking on genes in the brains of men who killed themselves. The researchers also discovered that simple maternal behavior during early childhood has a profound effect on genes and behavior, which can be reversed through treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 6, 2008

Priority regions for threatened frog and toad conservation in Latin America

A PLOS study highlights key conservation areas for threatened frogs and toads in Latin America, emphasizing the importance of considering life-history traits. The research reveals that regions with aquatic larval stages are crucial for species like Phyllomedusa ayeaye, while those without tadpoles require targeted conservation efforts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 6, 2008

Life without TORC is 1 big struggle

A team of researchers found that the protein TORC2 is crucial for glucose production and fat storage in Drosophila, a genetic switch that regulates metabolism in both flies and human livers. Without functional TORC, fly lifespan was cut in half and their ability to store energy was impaired.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 6, 2008

Smoke-free laws have no impact on employee turnover

A new study examines the impact of smoke-free laws on restaurant labor markets and finds a decline in turnover rates after implementation. The study supports existing evidence that smoke-free laws are positive for businesses, with no consistent pattern of increase or decrease over time.

SourceBurness·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateMay 6, 2008

Arable land can have a negative impact on air quality

Researchers found that arable land and steppe-formation processes can significantly affect global air quality, as evidenced by a dust cloud from southern Ukraine that caused extreme particulate matter concentrations in Central Europe. The study highlights the need for better understanding of dust transport and formation processes, part...

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateMay 6, 2008