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Science News Archive June 2013 - Page 23


Page 23 of 30

Conservatives more likely than liberals to identify mixed-race individuals as Black, NYU study finds

A NYU study explores the connection between political ideology and racial categorization, revealing that conservatives are more likely to identify mixed-race individuals as Black. The research suggests that this phenomenon is linked to system-justifying biases and a desire to maintain traditional social boundaries.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJun 6, 2013

Study suggests second life for possible spintronic materials

A new study suggests that scientists can create a stable structure with manganese and gallium nitride, which could be used in spintronics devices at or above room temperature. By incorporating a uniform layer and heating the sample, researchers were able to form a manganese-nitrogen bond that remains stable even at high temperatures.

SourceOhio University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateJun 6, 2013

Tumors disable immune cells by using up sugar

Researchers found that cancer cells' high sugar consumption disables immune cells' ability to produce inflammatory compounds, making it harder for them to fight tumors. This discovery may lead to new treatments by enhancing T cell function and treating autoimmune disorders.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·DateJun 6, 2013

Common genetic disease linked to father's age

A new study from USC researchers has found that a genetic mutation in testis stem cells increases the production of sperm carrying the disease trait, making older fathers more likely to pass it along to their children. This mutation gives an edge over normal stem cells, resulting in higher frequencies of new cases every generation.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 6, 2013

How birds lost their penises

Researchers discovered that birds have normally developing penises in early embryos but lose them through a genetic program, suggesting possible benefits for reproductive control. The study highlights the importance of programmed cell death in developmental processes and may provide insights into medical questions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 6, 2013

Facebook: A confidence boost for first-gen college students

A new study from the University of Michigan and Michigan State University found that Facebook connections can play a role in helping young people, especially those who are traditionally less likely to go to college, feel more confident about their ability to get into college and to succeed there. First-generation students who use socia...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalComputers & Education·DateJun 6, 2013

Gannets don't eat off each other's plates

Researchers found that northern gannets avoid visiting neighboring colonies' fishing grounds, suggesting a mathematical explanation rather than territorial behavior. The birds follow specific patterns and routes to find food opportunities, reinforcing cultural transmission within their colonies.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

MIT study sheds light on what causes compulsive behavior, could improve OCD treatments

Researchers at MIT have made significant progress in understanding the neural mechanisms of compulsive behavior by activating a specific brain circuit that controls compulsive behavior. By using optogenetics, they were able to block compulsive behavior in mice and demonstrate potential new approaches for treating diseases such as OCD.

Spooky action put to order

Researchers develop method to classify quantum entanglement states into geometric objects called polytopes, allowing for efficient prediction and characterization of entangled states. This breakthrough enables the development of novel quantum technologies with practical applications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

Very berry study aims to improve wine quality

A gene expression study highlights genes that help buffer grapevines against environmental change and may explain the different quality performances of grapevine when grown in different terroirs. The research could be used to identify and breed grapevine varieties better suited to climate change.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 6, 2013

The swing of architect genes

Scientists demonstrate the existence of two distinct regulatory domains controlling arm and hand formation, revealing a complex genetic switch that enables wrist emergence. The study sheds light on the molecular processes governing limb development, highlighting the intricate dialogue between genes and regulatory elements.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience·DateJun 6, 2013

U of M researchers find novel gene correction model for epidermolysis bullosa

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a way to correct genetic defects in skin cells of patients with epidermolysis bullosa. They used engineered transcription activator-like effector nucleases to target and fix mutation-causing genes, resulting in the production of missing proteins in living skin models.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Academic Health Center·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJun 6, 2013

Conflict-of-interest restrictions needed to ensure strong FDA review

A new analysis by researchers at George Washington University School of Public Health and Health Services suggests that removing conflict-of-interest restrictions for FDA advisory panels could weaken the agency's review system. The 2012 law loosened these restrictions, allowing more industry-affiliated experts to serve on panels.

The protein profile of restless leg syndrome

A study published in Fluids and Barriers of the CNS found a significantly altered level of six specific proteins in people with restless leg syndrome (RLS), consistent with iron deficiency, dopamine dysregulation, and inflammation. The discovery could lead to new treatments for RLS and its associated cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFluids and Barriers of the CNS·DateJun 6, 2013