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Science News for November 23, 2011


Researchers discover clues to developing more effective antipsychotic drugs

Researchers from Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified the pattern of cell signaling induced by antipsychotic drugs in a complex composed of two brain receptors linked to schizophrenia. This discovery may allow for the prediction of novel compounds' effectiveness and accelerate the development of better antipsychotic drugs.

Is short stature associated with a 'shortage' of genes?

Researchers discovered a correlation between low-frequency genetic deletions and decreasing height, suggesting that an excess of rare gene deletions may contribute to short stature. The study found that uncommon genetic deletions are associated with short stature in human subjects.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 23, 2011

Study finds online marketplaces overplay safeguards and ignore social aspects of transactions

A recent study by Temple University researchers found that online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon prioritize risk reduction over social aspects of transactions. The authors analyzed buyer data to gauge assessments of online safeguards, finding that economic risk is a significant consideration only in moderately risky markets.

SourceTemple University·JournalInformation Systems Research·DateNov 23, 2011

Supercool

Researchers found that water changes its molecular structure to form 'intermediate ice' at -55 F, allowing it to remain liquid below the traditional freezing point. The discovery sheds light on atmospheric scientists' need to predict global climate patterns and how much solar radiation is absorbed by atmospheric water and ice.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2011

Public restrooms ripe with bacteria, study says

Researchers found diverse bacterial communities in public restroom surfaces, with human skin being the primary source of bacteria. The study suggests that proper hygiene practices can help identify and mitigate the spread of pathogens through contaminated building surfaces.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 23, 2011

Enhanced treatment of brain tumors

A new treatment combination of radiation therapy and LY2109761 blocks TGF-β signaling pathways, slowing down tumor cell self-renewal and growth. This combination therapy improved outcomes in animal models and has the potential to delay glioblastoma progression in patients.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 23, 2011

Earth's core deprived of oxygen

A team of scientists led by Yingwei Fei found that oxygen is not a major component of the Earth's liquid outer core, contradicting previous models. The discovery has significant implications for understanding the planet's formation through accretion of dust and clumps of matter.

Introducing the monarch butterfly genome

The monarch butterfly's genome has been fully sequenced, offering insights into its long-distance migration. The study reveals genes responsible for vision, circadian clocks, and juvenile hormone synthesis, essential for extended lifespan and navigation.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateNov 23, 2011

Hopkins scientists turn on fountain of youth in yeast

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have successfully manipulated yeast life span by removing and restoring a protein function related to aging. By restoring this function, the organism's life span is dramatically extended. The discovery reveals molecular components of an aging pathway that appears related to one regulating longevity in humans.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateNov 23, 2011

Insect cyborgs may become first responders

Researchers at the University of Michigan are developing insect 'cyborgs' that can power sensors and communications equipment, allowing them to monitor hazardous situations before human intervention. The devices harness kinetic energy from wing movements, enabling the insects to gather vital information in confined environments.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateNov 23, 2011

Big pest, small genome

Researchers sequence the two-spotted spider mite's genome, revealing genes capable of detoxifying pesticides and plant toxins. This breakthrough sheds light on how these pests counteract plant defenses and provides new insights for developing targeted pesticides.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2011

Closer to a cure for eczema

Researchers have identified six yeast-killing peptides that target Malassezia sympodialis without harming human skin cells. These peptides could provide a potential new treatment for atopic eczema, increasing patients' quality of life. Further study is needed to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

SourceWiley·JournalLetters in Applied Microbiology·DateNov 23, 2011

The scoop on the dangers of snow shoveling

A study published in Clinical Research in Cardiology found that snow shoveling was associated with a significant proportion of heart problems among patients, particularly males with a family history of coronary artery disease. The study identified three key risk factors: gender, family history, and smoking.

SourceQueen's University·JournalClinical Research in Cardiology·DateNov 23, 2011

Doctors can do better if they learn from their mistakes

A team of researchers found that doctors who learned from both successes and failures performed better in making treatment choices. They used fMRI imaging to detect characteristic brain patterns for high performers and low performers, showing a correlation between attention to failed treatments and better performance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 23, 2011

Blossom end rot: Transport protein identified

A team of researchers has identified a protein that facilitates the radial transport of calcium ions from the root to the shoot, resolving a long-standing mystery. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for preventing blossom end rot and other nutrient deficiencies in crops.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2011