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Science News for November 2, 2005


Forgotten by evolution?

Scientists discovered that some adult stem cells express characteristics of muscle and heart cells, suggesting they could be the 'footprints' of evolution. The researchers believe these cells may be incomplete or 'rudiments' of earlier embryonal differentiation processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateNov 2, 2005

Shortness of breath without chest pain can signify the presence of high risk heart disease

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that shortness of breath can signify a higher risk of dying from cardiac disease. The study, which evaluated nearly 18,000 patients, revealed that patients with shortness of breath were four times more likely to suffer death from a cardiac cause than asymptomatic patients.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 2, 2005

Biologists discover new pathway into plant cells

Researchers at Oregon State University have identified a protein that can cross plant cell membranes and function as a toxin, allowing for potential manipulation of plant behavior. The discovery bears similarity to mammalian cell function and may lead to new tools for delivering compounds inside plant cells.

SourceOregon State University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateNov 2, 2005

Explaining why the Millennium Bridge wobbled

The Millennium Bridge's wobble was caused by a sudden synchronization of pedestrians' footsteps, which became unstable as more people joined in. Researchers found that only around 160 people were needed to trigger this phenomenon, which could be used to inform future bridge designs.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 2005

Drug developed at UC Davis may prevent breast cancer, treat post-menopausal vaginal atrophy

A new drug developed at UC Davis in collaboration with Finnish researchers shows promise in preventing breast cancer and treating post-menopausal vaginal atrophy. The study found that the drug inhibited breast cancer development by 95% in mice, suggesting a potential benefit for millions of women.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateNov 2, 2005

Neutron star discovered where black hole was expected

Astronomers find a dense whirling ball of neutrons in an extremely young star cluster, challenging the idea that nature can make black holes. The discovery shows massive stars may not collapse into black holes as predicted, but instead create neutron stars with a greater influence on future generations of stars.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateNov 2, 2005

New ECCO 13 data emphasise vital importance of cervical cancer detection, treatment and prevention

Research from ECCO 13 emphasizes the importance of cervical cancer detection, treatment, and prevention. The study found that adequate radiotherapy significantly improves survival rates for women with cervical cancer, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where HIV co-infection does not impact survival. The data also highlights the need f...

'Good' bacteria could save patients from infection infection by deadlier ones

A new approach to fighting MRSA infections suggests allowing harmless bacteria to live in hospitals, creating a natural protection against more virulent strains. By doing so, antibiotic-free hospitals with 'good' bacteria can test the effectiveness of this method, potentially reducing the spread of deadly MRSA.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalAnnals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England·DateNov 2, 2005