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Science News Archive August 2010 - Page 3


Page 3 of 23

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

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

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

Tuning into cell signals that tell where sensory organs will form inside the ear

Scientists have discovered a cell-to-cell signaling pathway that designates the future location of ear's sensory organs in embryonic mice. By activating this signal, they were able to induce patches of new sensory tissue with hair cells and support cells. This breakthrough suggests a potential avenue for regenerating sensory organs in ...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2010

IU chemists develop new 'light switch' chloride binder

Researchers at Indiana University have designed a molecule that binds chloride ions but can be compelled to release them in the presence of ultraviolet light. The 'light switch' properties of this foldamer could be valuable tools for biochemists, allowing them to adjust the availability of chloride in their experiments.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 27, 2010

Smoking increases depressive symptoms in teens

A recent study published in Addictive Behaviors found that smoking may increase depressive symptoms in some adolescents who use cigarettes as a mood enhancer. The long-term Nicotine Dependence in Teens (NDIT) study, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto and Montreal, involved over 662 high school teenagers.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateAug 27, 2010

Artificial enzyme removes natural poison

A man-made chemical enzyme has been used to neutralize glycoside esculin, a toxin found in horse-chestnuts, demonstrating the feasibility of 'Chemzyme' technology. The artificial enzyme's resilience and designability make it a promising solution for various industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalEuropean Journal of Organic Chemistry·DateAug 26, 2010

Penn study sheds light on how the brain shifts between sleep/awake states under anesthesia

A new study published in PLoS One reveals that the brain shifts between sleep/awake states under anesthesia through different processes. The researchers identified a fundamental state called neural inertia, which explains the brain's resistance to changes in consciousness. This finding may lead to the development of novel anesthetic dr...

No lounge for local lizards as living room vanishes

A new study by Queen's University Belfast found that Northern Ireland's lizard population is under threat from agricultural intensification, which may lead to their disappearance from the landscape. The researchers highlight the need for a new ecological network to preserve heath and boglands, essential habitats for the species.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalAmphibia-Reptilia·DateAug 26, 2010