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Science News for June 30, 2010


Honey as an antibiotic: Scientists identify a secret ingredient in honey that kills bacteria

Researchers identified defensin-1 protein in honey as a potent antibacterial agent, showing promise in treating burns, skin infections, and combating antibiotic-resistant infections. The discovery sheds light on the inner workings of honey bee immune systems, potentially leading to healthier bees.

Real-world proof of hand washing's effectiveness

A new study finds that hand washing can significantly reduce fecal bacteria contamination in stored drinking water, which is crucial for households with limited access to municipal water supply systems. The research discovered nearly 100 times more fecal bacteria in stored water compared to its source in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 30, 2010

Restore hearing thanks to new drug

A new drug called ADAC has been found to restore hearing in rats with noise-induced hearing loss. Early treatment with multiple injections of ADAC significantly attenuated noise-induced hearing loss and improved sensory hair cell survival.

Genetic code 2.0

Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft successfully integrated three synthetic amino acids into a single protein, allowing for systematic improvement of existing protein qualities. This breakthrough has significant implications for industry and science, enabling the creation of new biological features and tailored proteins with novel p...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 30, 2010

Virgin olive oil and a Mediterranean diet fight heart disease by changing how our genes function

A new study in the FASEB Journal suggests that polyphenols in virgin olive oil can down-regulate atherosclerosis-related genes, leading to improved lipid profiles and reduced inflammation. This research provides insight into how specific foods can modify gene expression, offering potential therapeutic benefits for cardiovascular disease.

Kilimani Sesame has positive impact on children in Tanzania: Johns Hopkins University study

A six-week intervention with Kilimani Sesame content significantly improved cognitive, social and health outcomes in Tanzanian children. The study found that increased exposure to the program led to higher scores on literacy and math tests, as well as greater knowledge about HIV/AIDS and malaria.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Applied Developmental Psychology·DateJun 30, 2010

Pathologists call for new training program to support personalized medicine

Experts in pathology are advocating for a comprehensive training program to integrate genomics and personalized medicine into daily practices. The proposed curriculum would cover laboratory medicine, genetic counseling, and health information technology, enabling pathologists to serve as primary consultants for physicians and patients.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Pathology·DateJun 30, 2010

Scientists find direct line from development to growth

Researchers at Duke University have identified a direct connection between plant development and growth, revealing that the Short-root protein controls the activity of genes involved in cell division. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of growth and development in plants and potentially other species.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateJun 30, 2010

Memory links to 40 winks

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that sleep strengthens weak associations in the brain, improving prospective memory and recall of future intentions. The study showed that a good night's sleep helps individuals carry out their plans more effectively by enhancing the link between context and intention.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 30, 2010