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Science News Archive September 2010 - Page 15


Page 15 of 27

Study: Mental illness stigma entrenched in American culture; new strategies needed

A joint Indiana University and Columbia University study found no change in prejudice and discrimination toward people with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse problems despite increased public acceptance of neurobiological explanations. Key findings include increased support for treatment but generally unrelated stigma reduction.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2010

BU team wins $4.1M genome grant

Boston University researchers have received a $4.1 million grant to refine their nanoscale, low-cost DNA sequencing method that could lead to individual genome sequencing for less than $1,000. The team's solid state nanopores are uniquely positioned to compete with current DNA sequencing methods for cost, speed and accuracy.

$30 million project will map the brain's wiring

A five-year, $30-million Human Connectome Project will generate a map of the brain's major circuits using powerful scanners and analysis techniques. The project aims to understand brain connectivity and function to advance brain health and develop new treatments for disorders like autism and schizophrenia.

Modern Muslims use dreams to make major life decisions

A study by Durham University anthropologist Dr Iain Edgar found that night dreams are being used to make choices on issues like marriage, business, and career development among modern Muslims. The practice of Istikhara, or Islamic 'dream incubation', involves using symbolism to interpret dreams and make decisions.

SourceDurham University·JournalHistory and Anthropology·DateSep 15, 2010

Does your insurance company know who the good doctors/surgeons are?

A recent study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that physician rating systems are not consistent across insurance companies, leading to confusion among consumers. The study also revealed that board certification, Medicaid acceptance, and practice location were independent factors associated with a top-tier ratin...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 15, 2010

Mount Sinai researchers develop database to help accelerate drug discovery

A new computational method, ChIP Enrichment Analysis (ChEA), helps streamline gene expression experiment analysis and identifies potential drug targets. The database integrates results from ChIP-seq and ChIP-chip experiments, providing a better understanding of transcription factor regulation and disease development.

Glaciers help high-latitude mountains grow taller

Research reveals that glaciers in cold climates protect mountain tops and sides from erosion, allowing them to grow higher. By analyzing rocks exposed on remote glaciers in Patagonia, scientists found that the protective effect of glaciers reverses the conventional view of them as powerful agents of erosion.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature·DateSep 15, 2010