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Science News for December 27, 2010


Team overcomes major obstacles to cellulosic biofuel production

A newly engineered yeast strain can simultaneously consume glucose and xylose, reducing inefficiencies in current biofuel production methods. The new strain produces more ethanol and consumes less time than existing strains, making it a significant breakthrough in cellulosic biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 2010

Standardized protocols would greatly enhance clinical and research potential of BTMs

The IOF and IFCC have identified research priorities and recommended specific bone turnover markers (s-PINP and s-CTX) as reference analytes for clinical and observational studies. Standardized protocols would greatly increase the clinical and research potential of BTMs, improving patient management and treatment adherence.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateDec 27, 2010

Mechanisms of juvenile hormone action in insects could help fine tune pesticides

Scientists at Virginia Tech have identified a critical step in juvenile hormone signaling, which could lead to more targeted mosquito controls. The discovery of a protein partner for the juvenile hormone receptor has significant implications for understanding insect development and reproductive maturation.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 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.

Human protein improves muscle function of muscular dystrophy mice

A novel human protein called biglycan has been shown to significantly slow muscle damage and improve function in mice with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The treatment restores utrophin presence in muscle cells, reducing muscle tissue damage by 50% compared to untreated mice.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 2010

Parents' social problems affect their children -- even in birds

A study found that changing the composition of quail groups causes aggression and changes in hormone levels, affecting chick growth and behavior. The results suggest a direct impact of mother quails' social environment on their offspring's phenotype.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 27, 2010

Broken glass yields clues to climate change

A new study suggests that dust particles in the atmosphere can be used as a predictor of future climate change. The research found that the size distribution of dust particles follows similar patterns to those produced by broken glass and other brittle objects.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 27, 2010

Full woodland strawberry genome sequenced

The full genome of the wild strawberry plant has been sequenced, revealing insights into its unique flavor and aroma compounds. The research provides a new model for studying agricultural crops and fruit trees, such as apples, peaches, and almonds.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 27, 2010
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Structure of key molecule in immune system provides clues for designing drugs

A team from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and Utrecht University has deciphered the atomic structure of two key transient enzyme complexes in the human complement system. The findings provide a molecular scaffold for designing novel drug therapeutics by targeting the complex and inhibiting its activation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateDec 27, 2010

Not all infant formulas are alike: Differential effects on weight gain

Infant formula type affects weight gain rates, with protein hydrolysate formulas influencing slower growth compared to cow's milk-based formulas. Protein hydrolysate infants exhibit similar growth patterns to breast-fed infants, suggesting potential benefits for infant health.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 27, 2010

Researchers: Pay more attention to epilepsy

A study found that at least one in 26 people will develop epilepsy in their lifetime, with higher risks for the elderly. This highlights the need for more research using epilepsy surveillance data to inform healthcare planning and improve patient care.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 27, 2010
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.