Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2009 - Page 25


Page 25 of 26

ChIP-Seq, Drosophila targeted mutagenesis featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols

The article describes a new approach for targeted mutagenesis in Drosophila melanogaster using ChIP-Seq analysis. The SIRT method combines homologous recombination, site-specific integration, and bacterial recombineering to facilitate efficient genetic variants at specific loci. This novel technique enables researchers to investigate g...

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCold Spring Harbor Protocols·DateJun 1, 2009

Protein linked to mental retardation controls synapse maturation, plasticity, CSHL team finds

A team of neuroscientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has discovered the mechanism by which a signaling protein controls the maturation and strength of excitatory synapses. The study, led by Professor Linda Van Aelst, found that oligophrenin-1 stabilizes postsynaptic AMPA receptors, which is essential for proper synaptic function.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 1, 2009

Mobile health clinics: Saving lives and money

Researchers found that mobile health clinics decrease both the incidence and economic burden of preventable diseases, saving $36 in combined emergency department costs for every $1 invested. The model also showed a net profit to the healthcare system due to reduced costs and increased value of life years saved.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateJun 1, 2009

Tai chi improves pain in arthritis sufferers

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that Tai Chi decreases pain in people with arthritis, improving physical function and quality of life. Additionally, it is an inexpensive, convenient, and enjoyable form of exercise that conveys psychological and social benefits.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJun 1, 2009

Researchers find breast cancer gene that's blocked by blood pressure drug

A study has identified a breast cancer gene called AGTR1 that is overexpressed in up to 20% of breast cancers and can be blocked by the blood pressure drug losartan. The researchers found that treatment with losartan shrunk tumors by 30% in mice, suggesting a potential new treatment option for women with AGTR1-positive breast tumors.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2009

Closing the gaps in the human genome

Researchers have developed a simple and scalable method to finish non-structural gaps in genome assemblies using 454 sequencing. The technique enables the targeting of class III gaps that are difficult to close with traditional cloning methods, with potential applications for other genomes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 1, 2009

Genes and smoking play role in rheumatoid arthritis

A new study found that all HLA-DRB1 shared epitope alleles strongly interact with smoking in conferring an increased risk of ACPA-positive RA. Smoking is identified as the main risk factor for developing rheumatoid arthritis, with a strong gene-environment interaction observed.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJun 1, 2009

New study finds lowfat chocolate milk is effective post-exercise recovery aid for soccer players

A new study finds that lowfat chocolate milk is an effective post-exercise recovery aid for soccer players, providing equal or superior muscle recovery compared to a high-carbohydrate recovery beverage. Chocolate milk's unique blend of protein and carbohydrates helps refuel exhausted muscles and reduce exercise-induced muscle damage.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateJun 1, 2009

Free music, sampled

A study by Yanbin Tu and Min Lu found that high-quality digital music samples are more effective in increasing consumer evaluation and willingness to pay. In contrast, low-quality samples with short durations discourage consumers from buying the full product.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Internet Marketing and Advertising·DateJun 1, 2009

Mosquito evolution spells trouble for Galapagos wildlife

Researchers discovered that the Galapagos giant tortoise and marine iguana are targeted by mosquitoes feeding on reptile blood, raising fears of devastating native wildlife diseases. The mosquito's adaptation to life in Galapagos could enable rapid spread of new diseases due to the islands' lack of immunity.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2009

Squid 'sight': Not just through eyes

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have discovered that certain squids can perceive light through a light-emitting organ beyond their eyes. This finding may lead to new insights into controlling and perceiving light. The study suggests that the squid's light organ, which is also involved in camouflage, uses the same pro...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2009

Culture, not biology, underpins math gender gap

Researchers from University of Wisconsin-Madison report that culture, not biology, underpins the math gender gap. Girls are now performing on par with boys in standardized mathematics tests and taking calculus at the same rate. The study challenges the validity of the greater male variability hypothesis, suggesting that providing femal...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2009

Wiping out the world's mass migrations

A recent study analyzes the impact of human activity on large-scale terrestrial migrations, revealing that up to a quarter of migrating species have gone extinct. Human activities such as fencing, farming, and water restrictions have altered habitats and reduced migration routes, leading to significant declines in animal populations.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalEndangered Species Research·DateJun 1, 2009