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Science News for August 9, 2009


An HIV-blocking gel for women

Researchers at the University of Utah created a vaginal gel that turns semisolid in response to semen, trapping AIDS virus particles. The gel, designed to protect women from HIV infection, works by forming a microscopic mesh that blocks the virus from infecting vaginal cells.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 9, 2009

Tumor suppressor pulls double shift as reprogramming watchdog

A study by researchers at the Salk Institute has found that tumor suppressor p53 plays a crucial role in controlling somatic cell reprogramming. The study showed that p53 activation prevents cells from reverting back to a less specialized state, which could have implications for cancer development and pluripotent stem cell technology.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2009
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Temp work strains employee mental health

Research shows that temporary workers are susceptible to declining mental health due to unstable employment. Contingent workers report more symptoms of depression and psychological distress than similarly employed workers in stable positions.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·DateAug 9, 2009

Mothers, but not fathers, follow their own moms' parenting practices

Researchers at Ohio State University found that mothers tend to follow their own mothers' parenting practices, such as spanking and affection, but fathers do not. The study also revealed a significant shift in parenting practices over two generations, with increased emphasis on reading and affection shown to children.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 9, 2009

What makes an accent in a foreign language lighter

Researchers at the University of Haifa discovered that greater empathy for native speakers can lighten accents in a second language. The study also found a link between accent heaviness and sociopolitical position, particularly among Arabic speakers who hold differing sentiments towards the Hebrew-speaking majority group.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalInternational Journal of Bilingualism·DateAug 9, 2009
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Study: Higher education playing bigger role in gender wage gap

A new study by Ohio State University found that college major is a significant factor contributing to the ongoing gender wage gap. Women are often segregated into majors that lead to lower-paying careers, exacerbating the existing income inequality. The research suggests that this phenomenon has become more pronounced over time.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 9, 2009

Unlikely genetic suspect implicated in common brain defect

The study uncovered the unlikely genetic suspect, FOXC1, which critically contributes to Dandy-Walker malformation, a brain defect causing mental retardation and motor delays. The discovery provides new mechanisms and potentially improves treatment for the disorder, offering insights into embryonic brain development.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 9, 2009

Mutations in gene linked to ciliopathies

Researchers found that mutations in the INPP5E gene lead to impaired balance, mental retardation, and polycystic kidney disease. The study suggests that targeting the phosphatylinositol pathway with existing drugs may help treat ciliopathies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 9, 2009
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Radiotherapy could reduce cognitive function in patients with common brain tumors

Patients who received radiotherapy for low-grade glioma brain tumors showed significant cognitive decline compared to those who did not receive treatment. The study found that attentional functioning, executive functioning, and information processing speed were lower in patients given radiotherapy. Deferring treatment or using modern r...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 9, 2009