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Science News Archive March 2011 - Page 10


Page 10 of 28

WSU proves extracellular matrix tugging creates come hither stimulus for cancer migration

A Wayne State University researcher has found that continuous restructuring of the extracellular matrix, which supports tumor weight, enables highly invasive cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body. The study identified fibronectin and cofilin as crucial components required for this mechanical response.

Digital versus analog control over cortical inhibition

Researchers discovered that membrane potential-dependent modulation of recurrent inhibition is a key mechanism for maintaining dynamic balance of excitation and inhibition in the cortex. This finding has implications for understanding cortical rhythms and preventing abnormal cortical activities during seizures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 22, 2011

Study finds reports of domestic violence rise 10 percent after NFL upsets

An analysis of 900 regular-season NFL games found a 10% increase in calls to police reporting men's assaults on their wives or intimate partners following losses by the local team. The researchers suggest that unexpected disappointments, particularly those involving traditional rival teams, may lead to an increase in violent behavior.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateMar 22, 2011

Protein associated with allergic response causes airway changes in asthma patients

Researchers found that interleukin-13 stimulates invasion of airway cells called fibroblasts in asthma patients, leading to increased thickness in airway walls and loss of lung function. The protein acts in combination with other mediators, including TGF-β1 and MMPs, to cause cellular changes that contribute to airway remodeling.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 22, 2011

New online resource on Bacille Calmette-Guerin vaccine

The BCG World Atlas offers detailed information on current and past vaccination policies across over 180 countries. This database aims to improve the care of patients with tuberculosis (TB) by providing useful resources for clinicians, policymakers, and researchers.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 22, 2011

Sign language users read words and see signs simultaneously

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that sign language users can process both English words and American Sign Language (ASL) signs concurrently. When word pairs were matched with similar signs, reaction times were faster and accuracy rates improved compared to control group bilingual speakers.

SourcePenn State·JournalCognition·DateMar 22, 2011

Can non-medical factors trigger sick leave?

A Swedish study found that problems in relationships with colleagues and superiors were more frequent in the days leading up to sick leave. Individuals with minor ailments were also more likely to report sick when they expected a stressful workday ahead, highlighting the impact of work environment on behavior when ill.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMar 22, 2011

The informant: a jumping gene

Scientists developed a new method, GROMIT, to study gene regulation by employing a jumping gene as an informant. The technique revealed that each regulatory element can control a broader range of genes than previously thought, and expression levels are fine-tuned at the tissue level.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 21, 2011

Capitalizing on corruption: Not all companies harmed by corruption

A new study finds that corruption can help companies develop organizational capabilities to operate successfully in corrupt environments, leading to more success when investing internationally. The study identifies various strategies firms use to capitalize on corruption, including political networking and joint venturing.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Management Studies·DateMar 21, 2011

Adolescent brood of women who drank during first trimester more prone to develop conduct disorder

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that adolescent girls exposed to heavy alcohol use during their first trimester were three times more likely to develop conduct disorder. The study examined 592 adolescents and their mothers or caretakers, utilizing data from a long...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 21, 2011

European guidelines for HIV tropism testing

The European Consensus Group has developed guidelines for HIV tropism testing, which is required before starting maraviroc treatment. The guidelines recommend phenotypic enhanced sensitivity Trofile assay or V3 loop genotypic sequencing for drug-naive patients with toxic side-effects or poor tolerability.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMar 21, 2011

New technique could help solve mystery of vanishing bees

Ecologists have developed a new method for rearing honey bee larvae in the laboratory, allowing researchers to study the causes of their decline more effectively. The technique, which uses an artificial plastic honeycomb, has shown high survival rates and improved data analysis capabilities.

SourceWiley·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 21, 2011