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Science News Archive 2010 - Page 56


Page 56 of 283

New regulator of circadian clock identified

Researchers at Concordia University have discovered how the brain chemical dopamine regulates daily sleeping and eating patterns by altering PER2 protein activity. The study, published in Journal of Neuroscience, may have implications for individuals with Parkinson's disease who experience disrupted 24-hour rhythms.

'Reaper' protein strikes at mitochondria to kill cells

Researchers found that the Reaper protein triggers apoptosis by interfering with inhibitor of apoptosis proteins and delivering its death sentence to the mitochondria. By targeting the protein to the mitochondrial membrane, it can be made more effective at killing cells, providing a potential new approach for cancer treatments.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateOct 20, 2010

Study shows malaria deaths in India massively underestimated by WHO; figures for adult malaria deaths worldwide now need urgent revision

A new study reveals that malaria deaths in India are 13 times higher than currently estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO). The research suggests that approximately 205,000 malaria deaths occur annually in India before age 70, with a cumulative probability of death from malaria at 1.8% for individuals under 70 years old.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 20, 2010

Psychologists at the forefront of weight management

The authors highlight the importance of mental health care providers in addressing eating and weight-related problems in young people. Family-based behavioral interventions are considered the first-line treatment for pediatric overweight, promoting small changes in dietary and physical activity behaviors.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings·DateOct 20, 2010

How batteries grow old

Ohio State University researchers conducted experiments to test commercially available Li-ion batteries thousands of times, finding irreversible changes at the nanoscale that lead to battery loss of charge. The study suggests that coarsening of electrode materials may be responsible for this loss.

The hair brush that reads your mind

Researchers developed a novel 'brush optrode' that threads fibers through hair to improve functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) signal levels 3-5 fold. The device increases scalp contact, enhances brain imaging, and is more comfortable for patients compared to conventional fiber ends.

SourceOptica·DateOct 19, 2010

Long distance, top secret messages

Physicists at Georgia Tech have developed a critical component of a quantum repeater, allowing for secure encryption key transmission over longer distances. The new technology enables the relay of entangled particles over 1,000 kilometers, significantly improving the security of quantum cryptography.

SourceOptica·DateOct 19, 2010

Low testosterone linked to heightened risk of early death

Research published in Heart found that men with low testosterone levels were more likely to die prematurely from heart disease and all causes. The study of 930 men with coronary artery heart disease showed that those with low testosterone had nearly twice the risk of death compared to those with normal levels.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalHeart·DateOct 19, 2010

Experiments find bias in way analysts view firms led by black grads of prestigious universities

A study in Organization Science found that analysts discount African American managers' qualifications if they graduated from prestigious universities, while accepting the same qualifications for white managers. The effect is significant even when controlling for financial performance and accomplishments.

Gene activity in the brain depends on genetic background

A new study found that gene activity patterns in the brain differ significantly among individuals with varying genetic backgrounds. The study, published in PNAS, mapped gene expression across 49 genes in seven genetically distinct mouse groups, revealing localized differences in gene activity.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2010

Brain might be key to leptin's actions against type 1 diabetes, UT Southwestern researchers find

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that infusing leptin into the brain of mice with type 1 diabetes reversed lethal consequences and improved metabolism. The study suggests a novel role for the brain in mediating beneficial actions of leptin, potentially leading to new therapies for individuals with type 1 diabetes.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2010

Bioelectrical signals turn stem cells' progeny cancerous

Biologists at Tufts University have discovered that changes in membrane voltage in newly identified 'instructor cells' can cause stem cells' descendants to trigger melanoma-like growth in pigment cells. The researchers found that this metastatic transformation is due to changes in serotonin transport.

SourceTufts University·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·DateOct 19, 2010

Old logging practices linked to high erosion rates

Researchers found that old logging practices led to unprecedented soil erosion in southern Oregon's Siskiyou Mountains, which remains a threat despite improved practices. The study analyzed charcoal, pollen, and sediment cores to understand the impacts of fires over the last 2,000 years.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2010