Algal protein in worm neurons allows remote control of behavior by light
By introducing expression of a special green-algae gene into neurons of the tiny, transparent nematode C. elegans, researchers have been able to elicit specific behavioral responses by simply illuminating animals with blue light. The work paves the way for better understanding of how neurons communicate with each other, and with muscles, to regulate behavior in intact, living organisms. Generally...Harmful Algal Blooms monitored from space in Chile
Chile is currently the world's largest producer of farmed salmon and has a burgeoning mussel culture industry that is supplying a growing world market. However, the country's marine aquaculture sector is vulnerable to Harmful Algal Blooms, which occur when some algae species producing poisons bloom rapidly in water, causing physical or biochemical damage to fish and shellfish. Early detec...Sandia research to focus on early detection of harmful algal blooms
Sandia National Laboratories researchers Todd Lane and Victoria VanderNoot have been awarded a research grant to develop a technology that can successfully detect deadly toxins from harmful algal blooms (HABs). The funding is provided by the Cooperative Institute for Coastal and Estuarine Environmental Technology (CICEET), a partnership of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA...Red Algal Bloom – Gloom Time for Asthmatic
Sarasota: Red tide on Florida’s coast, a yearly occurrence, is a sign of more crease lines on Asthmatics’ countenance. The ‘Red tide’ time, is undoubtedly// red alert for asthmatics, as toxins called brevetoxins take flight, triggering difficulties in breathing. Researchers also fear this could intensify symptoms in Asthmatics.Many beach visitors also complain of dry coughs and watering eyes du...Algal Gel to Prevent HIV Infection
Scientists involved in a worldwide research have come up with a microbicidal algal gel to prevent HIV infection. This gel is expected to evolve into a powerful new protection weapon for women against HIV. //Preliminary lab tests suggest it would be 95% efficient. Brazilian scientists, who aim to evolve various methods to prevent HIV infection by using microbicides , assur...