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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 53


Page 53 of 277

Getting on 'the GABA receptor shuttle' to treat anxiety disorders

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry examined the role of GABA receptors in anxiety disorders, revealing that inserting GABA receptors into neurons in the amygdala increases inhibition and prevents fear extinction. This discovery provides evidence for molecular mechanisms behind cognitive and behavioral therapies.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 22, 2009

Female choice benefits mothers more than offspring

Researchers found no support for theory that female choice is connected to 'good genes', suggesting females resist mating attempts primarily for their own benefit. Females with increased ability to reject males had higher fitness, while inadvertent selection for male persistence played a minor role.

SourceUppsala University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 22, 2009

Quick and easy diagnosis for mitochondrial disorders

Researchers developed a molecular diagnostic tool that uses targeted genetic sequencing to screen for variations in 362 genes associated with mitochondrial disease. The new method accurately identified the mutation underlying each patient's condition, increasing sensitivity for diagnosing previously unknown genes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Medicine·DateOct 22, 2009

Sensing disasters from space

The HRS technology combines space sensors with ground and air measurements to provide advance warnings of natural disasters such as forest fires. It can also identify water contamination, pollution spills and monsoon strikes, offering valuable insights for property developers and authorities.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateOct 22, 2009

Sanford Barsky, M.D., University of Nevada School of Medicine and Nevada Cancer Institute faculty member publishes scientific paper in the journal Nature

Researchers found that the tumour suppressor gene Pten plays a critical role in suppressing the development of breast tumors. The study used transgenic mouse models and showed that deletion of Pten in fibroblasts accelerates tumor growth, highlighting the importance of the tumor microenvironment in cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2009

Long-term treatment with proton pump inhibitor can increase weight

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment can lead to weight gain in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The research highlights the importance of lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and weight management, to mitigate this effect. By ...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateOct 22, 2009

Messenger RNA with FLASH

Researchers from UNC Health Care have discovered a crucial link between the synthesis of histone messenger RNA and apoptosis, a normal biochemical response to cell damage. The study identifies FLASH protein as essential for producing histone proteins, which regulate gene expression.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 22, 2009

New artificial enzyme safer for nature

A team of researchers from the University of Copenhagen has successfully produced an artificial enzyme that is tailor-made for any application. The new enzyme speeds up oxidizing processes using Hydrogen Peroxide and operates under humane conditions, making it a promising alternative to traditional oxidizers.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalChemBioChem·DateOct 22, 2009

Maternal smoking may increase newborns' discomfort

A new study suggests that maternal smoking during pregnancy may increase newborns' distress levels, potentially related to reduced monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) activity. This reduction in MAO-A activity can lead to dysregulation of brain neurotransmission, creating a potential vulnerability to behavioral disorders later in life.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 21, 2009

Why sex with a partner is better

A study by University of Oregon researchers found that nematode worms with partners were more resistant to genetic mutations and better adapted to changing environments. This suggests that having a mate provides an evolutionary advantage over self-fertilization, leading to longer lives for offspring.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2009

Tips from the American Journal of Pathology

Research from the American Journal of Pathology reveals that glycosaminoglycans contribute to skeletal abnormalities in patients with lysosomal storage diseases. Additionally, αvβ3-integrin expression improves ovarian cancer patient prognosis, while CpG DNA may be a therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease treatment.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009

Classifying molar pregnancy

Classifying molar pregnancy is crucial for clinical treatment due to increased risk of persistent gestational trophoblastic disease. Researchers used STR genotyping and p57 immunohistochemistry to differentiate complete hydatidiform moles from partial moles and non-molar specimens.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 21, 2009

Alcohol tolerance 'switch' found

Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered a genetic 'switch' in fruit flies that contributes to increased alcohol tolerance. This switch also has implications for the development of fatty liver syndrome and cirrhosis in humans, with certain gene variations linked to excessive drinking behavior.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGenetics·DateOct 21, 2009