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Science News for August 29, 2010


Core knowledge of tree fruit expands with apple genome sequencing

The domestic apple genome sequence has been published, providing valuable information for breeding apples with desirable traits such as disease resistance and flavor. The study confirms that the wild ancestor of the modern domesticated apple is Malus sieversii from southern Kazakhstan.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 29, 2010

Core knowledge of tree fruit expands with apple genome sequencing

Scientists have successfully sequenced the domestic apple genome, allowing for rapid identification of desirable genes and traits. The study also reveals the wild ancestor of the modern domesticated apple, providing a valuable resource for future research and breeding programs.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 29, 2010

Heart-rate-lowering drug ivabradine reduces death and hospitalization when added to standard treatments in patients with heart failure

The SHIFT study found that ivabradine significantly reduced cardiovascular death and hospitalization for worsening heart failure when added to standard treatment in patients with a high heart rate. Lowering heart rates with ivabradine was also associated with improved clinical outcomes, including an average reduction of 15 bpm.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 29, 2010
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

All genes in 1 go

Scientists at Max Planck Institute successfully analyze all genes in human genome simultaneously to identify mutation causing Mabry Syndrome. The new process reveals a mutation in PIGV gene leading to mental retardation and other symptoms.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 29, 2010

Location determines social network influence, CCNY-led team finds

A CCNY-led team found that nodes with fewer connections but locations near the core of a network are just as likely to spread information or infections. This knowledge could help public health officials target resources to reduce the spread of infectious diseases.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 29, 2010

Payday proximity changes consumer motives and behavior

A new study finds that consumers' motives and purchasing decisions change as the time since their last paycheck increases. Newly paid individuals tend to prioritize products that improve their quality of life, while those closer to payday focus on preserving their current standard of living.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateAug 29, 2010

Genetic variation in key cell pumping mechanism reduces effects of clopidogrel treatment (but not prasugrel), leaving those affected at increased risk of cardiovascular events

A study found that genetic variation in ABCB1 affects clopidogrel metabolism, leading to increased cardiovascular risk. The variation, which is common in half the population, can render standard clopidogrel treatment less effective, highlighting the importance of personalized medicine approaches.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 29, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

McMaster study contradicts reports of problems with blood thinner

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine contradicts earlier reports that people with a certain genetic make-up don't benefit from the blood-thinner clopidogrel. Researchers found that the gene variant previously thought to be associated with reduced effectiveness had no impact on patients taking clopidogrel.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 29, 2010

First genetic link to common migraine exposed

Researchers have discovered a genetic risk factor associated with common types of migraine, revealing a potential explanation for the link. A DNA variant on Chromosome 8 regulates glutamate levels in nerve cells, which may play a key role in migraine attacks.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 29, 2010

Neuronal diversity makes a difference, says Carnegie Mellon study

Carnegie Mellon researchers found that heterogeneous groups of neurons transmit twice as much information as homogeneous groups. This diversity is essential for overall brain function and may also play a role in neurological disorders like epilepsy and schizophrenia.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 29, 2010
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.

Vulnerability in commercial quanto cryptography

Researchers found a technique to remotely control a key component of most quantum cryptography systems, exploiting imperfections in photon detectors. Countermeasures have been implemented with ID Quantique, a leading manufacturer, to secure the technology.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 29, 2010

Study points to key genetic driver of severe allergic asthma

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have identified interleukin-17A as the chief culprit behind severe asthma-like symptoms in mice. The study found that blocking IL-17A production or targeting the complement factor 3 pathway can reduce airway hyper-responsiveness and inflammation.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNature Immunology·DateAug 29, 2010

Widespread parental misuse of medicines puts children at risk

A study found that parents often administer incorrect doses of medications to children, leading to a high number of calls to poison centers and emergency hospital admissions. The researchers call for improved education on proper medication usage to prevent child harm.

SourceInternational Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)·DateAug 29, 2010

Schizophrenia and psychotic syndromes

Schizophrenia is a complex condition characterized by altered brain structure and neurotransmission, leading to symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and social withdrawal. Delayed access to treatment can result in slower recovery and increased risk of relapse, highlighting the need for early intervention.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateAug 29, 2010

Developmental gene-environment interactions: A model for psychosis

Research highlights the importance of gene-environment interactions in understanding psychosis development. Environmental factors such as urbanicity, migration, and cannabis use have been shown to increase risk, while genetic vulnerability plays a role in making individuals more susceptible.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateAug 29, 2010
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.