The Monthly Technology Column Featuring Timely Tech Trends, Tips and Updates.
For inclusion in tech talk: please email your tech information as a press release to meg@sggdesign.com
Compiled by Bill Beggs Jr.
Danforth Center Scientists Labor to Reduce Spread of Rice Virus
Donald Danforth Plant Science Center researchers have discovered a technology that reduces infection by the virus that causes Rice Tungro Disease. The disease accounts for nearly $1.5 billion annual loss in rice production worldwide. Controlling this virus could result in increased yields ranging from five and 10 percent annually.
Building on plant virus research started more than 20 years ago, Roger N. Beachy, Ph.D., and research scientist Shunhong Dai, Ph.D., demonstrated that two rice proteins are tolerant to infection caused by the rice tungro bacilliform virus. The proteins may be involved in regulating defense mechanisms that protect against virus infection, says Beachy, president of Danforth Center.
Fighting Stroke Top Priority of Endowed Chair at SLU
Salvador Cruz-Flores, M.D., professor of neurology at Saint Louis University, has been invested as the inaugural holder of the Sidney W. Souers Endowed Chair in Neurology.
A professor of neurology and psychiatry, Cruz specializes in treating stroke patients. He directs SLU’s Souers Stroke Institute and MidAmerica Stroke Network, which extends acute stroke care to rural, community and critical access hospitals throughout Missouri and central and southern Illinois.
Stroke is the third most common cause of death and a leading cause of disability. A clot-busting medication can reduce long-term disabilities from stroke if it is given within three hours after the on-set of symptoms.
SIUE Upgrades Biology and GIS Labs
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has outfitted additional space in University Park for increased Biology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) laboratory requirements.
New space for Biology includes:
- laboratories to meet increased
student needs
- a lab to prepare materials for use
in teaching labs
- an expanded lounge with desks,
computer, and campus phone
Space for GIS includes:
- offices for SIUE staff / faculty, project consultants and visiting scientists
- map storage / preparation area
- conference room
- area for GIS technicians and
graduate assistants
