Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 10, 2006


When good DNA goes bad

A study at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that Z-DNA, a twisted shape of DNA, can cause genetic instability and breaks in human cells, particularly in those with Burkitt's lymphoma. The research opens up a new field of inquiry into the role of DNA shape in genomic instability and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2006

Controlled corrosion

Scientists study Cu3Au alloy's corrosion behavior, observing the formation of a protective passivation layer that protects against further corrosion. Controlled corrosion allows for nanometric-scale material structuring, potentially leading to new catalysts with high surface areas.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 10, 2006

Guilt and fear motivate better than hope

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research suggests that emotions like guilt and regret play a critical role in motivating people to make wise decisions about self-protection. The research finds that appeals combining fear and accountability are more effective than those relying on hope or good intentions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateFeb 10, 2006

Study finds some people in pain unlikely to seek treatment

A study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that 22.4% of people with chronic pain did not inform their physician about it, likely due to poor experiences or barriers to healthcare. The study highlights the need for better pain management and increased awareness among healthcare professionals.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateFeb 10, 2006

Hydrogen bonds shown to play 'conserved' role in protein folding

Researchers at Duke University have shown that hydrogen bonds are crucial for protein folding and are highly conserved across different proteins. Their study found that deleting hydrogen bonds from proteins led to destabilization of the structure, supporting the importance of these bonds in protein folding.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2006