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Science News Archive August 2009 - Page 17


Page 17 of 22

Urine samples could be used to predict responses to drugs, say researchers

Researchers from Imperial College London and Pfizer Research and Development found that urine samples can be used to predict how individuals will respond to certain drugs. The study looked at acetaminophen levels in urine before and after consumption and found that compounds like para-cresol sulphate were indicators of drug metabolism.

SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2009

How mice and humans differ immunologically

Researchers identified TLR9 expression patterns as a key factor in determining molecule toxicity between mice and humans. In mice, other immune cells expressing TLR9 were responsible for TNF-alpha production, leading to severe lung inflammation and toxicity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2009

First black holes born starving

Recent simulations by astrophysicists reveal that the first black holes in the universe grew slowly and were deprived of gas, contradicting popular theories. The simulations suggest that these early black holes may have played a more complex role in the formation of supermassive black holes observed today.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 10, 2009

New gene linked to muscular dystrophy

Mutations in the PTRF gene have been found to cause a form of muscular dystrophy with generalized lipodystrophy. The disease is characterized by progressive skeletal muscle weakness and deficiency of caveolin-3 protein.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 10, 2009

Nanoelectronic transistor combined with biological machine could lead to better electronics

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory researchers have devised a versatile hybrid platform that uses lipid-coated nanowires to build prototype bionanoelectronic devices. The platform enhances biosensing and diagnostic tools, advances neural prosthetics such as cochlear implants, and could increase the efficiency of future computers.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 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

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

A double-threat to teen health

A recent study by Temple researchers found that heavy drinking is more likely to lead to heavy smoking among adolescents, highlighting the need for a multi-pronged approach to education and intervention. The study's findings emphasize the importance of addressing both topics together to combat this growing health risk.

Navigating in the ocean of molecules

A new computer program called Scaffold Hunter helps researchers identify potential active agents for cancer and malaria treatment by navigating the vast ocean of molecules. The program generates maps of chemically-related structures and links them to biological activity, identifying promising candidates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 7, 2009

How to make negative services less unpleasant for consumers

A study found that women's stress levels increased when they believed in mammography's efficacy, while those coming in for diagnostic tests felt less stress as their belief grew. Healthcare providers should consider patient stage and tailor services to reduce stress.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateAug 7, 2009

Planning English football fixtures

Professor Graham Kendall's software programme automatically plans Christmas and New Year fixtures for 92 teams, considering guidelines to ease policing and transport pressure. The algorithm prevents local derbies, ensures balanced match schedules, and limits London clubs' home games.