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Science News for April 25, 2010


Scientists crack code of critical bacterial defense mechanism

Researchers have successfully reproduced a key component of bacterial lipopolysaccharide structures, allowing for deeper understanding of their growth and potential antibiotic targets. The discovery could lead to the development of new treatments against Gram-negative bacteria.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 25, 2010

Studying altered brain cells sheds light on epilepsy

Researchers discovered that changes in astrocytes disrupt signal control, leading to seizures. The study found that altering reactive astrocytosis reduced inhibition, allowing neurons to fire out of control and potentially developing new treatments for epilepsy.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 25, 2010

Putting bacterial antibiotic resistance into reverse

Researchers find that combining certain antibiotics can halt bacterial evolution and favor non-resistant strains, potentially reversing the trend of antibiotic resistance. This approach could lead to identifying novel drug combinations that hinder resistance development without compromising effectiveness.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 25, 2010
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Montana State chemists unravel secrets of unique enzyme

Researchers determined the structure of an intermediate enzyme form participating in fundamental biology reactions. The discovery sheds light on life's origins and potential applications in producing renewable fuels and fighting pollution.

SourceMontana State University·JournalNature·DateApr 25, 2010

Worm genes KO'd

Researchers at the University of Utah have developed a procedure to delete specific genes from nematode worms, allowing them to infer the function of each gene and thereby understand human gene regulation. The technique, called MosDel, uses a transposon to cut out genes and exploit cell DNA repair mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 25, 2010
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Study suggests a much earlier onset for bone problems

Researchers from North Carolina State University found that very early calcium nutrition can impact long-term skeletal health. The study involved piglets fed a calcium-rich or deficient diet during infancy, resulting in marked differences in bone density and strength. This suggests that early nutritional programming may predispose indi...

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 25, 2010

Targeting a waterborne foe

Researchers have identified a potential drug target in the parasite life cycle, which could block its ability to infect humans. Cryptosporidium oocysts are stable outside a host and resistant to conventional water treatment methods.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 25, 2010

Better vitamin D status could mean better quality of life for seniors

Research suggests that optimal vitamin D levels are associated with better physical function in seniors, which can improve their overall quality of life. The study found that participants with higher circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D had better physical function, including improved walking ability and balance.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 25, 2010
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

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Brain-like computing on an organic molecular layer

Researchers have created a brain-like 'evolutionary circuit' in an organic molecular layer that can solve complex problems, mimicking natural phenomena like heat diffusion and cancer cell evolution. The processor also exhibits self-healing properties, unlike existing man-made computers.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 25, 2010

WHOI scientists find ancient asphalt domes off California coast

Researchers from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and UC Santa Barbara found massive asphalt domes 10 miles offshore, 35,000 years old, containing over 100,000 tons of residual asphalt. The structures are home to a thriving ecosystem, with scientists studying their chemical composition, age, and purpose.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 25, 2010

Clinical study supports benefit of breastfeeding support for obese women

A clinical study found that intensive breastfeeding support for obese women significantly improves breastfeeding success rates and infant health outcomes, including lower hospitalization rates for respiratory infections. The study involved 154 overweight or obese women who received either standard information or intensive peer counseli...

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateApr 25, 2010
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

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