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Science News for September 19, 2005


Molecular pathway linked to breast cancer recurrence

A recent study has identified a molecular pathway linked to breast cancer recurrence, suggesting that the transcriptional repressor Snail may play a role in progression. Genetic screening of human breast cancer samples revealed that high levels of Snail expression predict decreased relapse-free survival.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 19, 2005

Neanderthal teeth grew no faster than comparable modern humans'

Researchers found that Neanderthals' tooth growth rate was comparable to that of modern humans, suggesting they may not have had a shorter childhood than us. The study used microscopic lines on teeth to estimate growth rates and found that Neanderthal enamel formation times fell within the range of three modern populations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2005

Adult human neural stem cell therapy successful in treating spinal cord injury

A new study by UCI researchers shows that adult human neural stem cells can differentiate into new oligodendrocyte cells and neurons, restoring myelin and improving motor function in mice with spinal cord injuries. The treatment also leads to behavioral improvements, including the ability to step using hind paws.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2005

Tissue rigidity promotes tumor progression

A study published in Cancer Cell found that increased tissue rigidity promotes the malignant behavior of tumor cells by inducing Rho-generated cytoskeletal tension and focal adhesions. This discovery may lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cancers.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateSep 19, 2005

Monitoring the response to vaccination against melanoma

Researchers have identified distinct patterns of responses in patient cells after vaccination against melanoma, which may help monitor treatment response. The study found that certain compounds were secreted by cells in patients whose tumors did not grow after vaccination.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 19, 2005

Findings relate aspirin-induced ulcers, hearing loss

A study by Rice University researchers found that salicylate causes membranes to thin, soften, and rupture more easily, increasing the risk of hearing loss. The findings provide a mechanistic basis for the debilitating side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen.

SourceRice University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateSep 19, 2005

Failure to suppress irrelevant brain activity in Alzheimer disease

A study published in PLoS Medicine found that people with Alzheimer's disease have difficulty suppressing irrelevant brain activity, which can lead to cognitive impairments. This defective focusing process is characterized by reduced cross-modal inhibition, where auditory and visual processing areas are not properly deactivated.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 19, 2005

Molecular defect found that may cause heart failure

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has identified a molecular defect in specialized proteins called ryanodine receptors (RyRs) as a possible cause of heart failure. The RyRs malfunction, leading to calcium imbalances that prevent the heart from contracting effectively and relaxing adequately.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2005

Diamonds are a doctor's best friend

Researchers have developed diamond-like carbon coatings for medical implants, reducing friction and corrosion while providing biocompatibility. The new method of coating plastics, metals, and collagen enables the production of harder-wearing implants and enhances patient outcomes.

Public patients denied effective obesity treatment

Australia's Director of Obesity Research highlights lack of access to life-saving bariatric surgery for those who need it most. Over 2.6 million Australians struggle with obesity, a growing public health crisis requiring urgent attention and action from hospitals and governments.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateSep 19, 2005

Clearing jams in copy machinery

Two DNA polymerases, Pol III and Pol IV, coordinate their action to cross obstacles in the replication process. Pol III copies DNA while proofreading for errors, but can stall if it encounters a problem, allowing Pol IV to take over.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 19, 2005

Surgeons lack training in palliative surgical options

A study found significant deficiencies in education on palliative surgical care among surgeons, with 84% not receiving any training during residency and 44% lacking continuing medical education. The lack of standardization in treatment recommendations may be due to diverse sources of training and experience.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateSep 19, 2005