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Science News for November 22, 2006


JCI table of contents: November 22, 2006

A study published in JCI found that overexpression of CaMKII altered sodium channel function, leading to increased susceptibility to ventricular tachyarrhythmias in mice. Additionally, proteasome composition differed between Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, with CD showing increased degradation of an NF-kappa-B inhibitor.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 22, 2006

Parkinson's mutation stunts neurons

Researchers found that mutations in LRRK2 protein stunt neuron growth and branching, leading to dopamine-producing neuron loss and disease progression. The study provides a useful animal model for studying PD and discovering new treatments.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateNov 22, 2006

The 'Freakonomics of food'

A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab shows that we tend to overeat due to cues around us, such as plate size and distractions. By using smaller plates or limiting food options, individuals can make easier changes to control their eating habits.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 22, 2006

Mind the gap

A team of scientists used high-energy X-rays to study the hydrophobic water gap, revealing its size and characteristics. The study provides new insights into protein folding and stability, which are crucial in biological systems.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2006

Getting to the heart of the heart

A type of stem cell has been identified that gives rise to both myocardial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells, challenging previous notions of how the heart develops. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for congenital heart defects and damage caused by heart attacks.

Technology for monitoring fetal oxygen during labor offers no apparent benefit

Researchers found that continuous fetal oxygen saturation monitoring had no significant effect on Caesarean delivery rates for both normal and abnormal fetal heart rates. The study enrolled over 5000 women across 14 hospitals, with no statistically meaningful differences in Caesarean deliveries between the groups.

Zinc plays important role in brain circuitry

Researchers have demonstrated a central role for zinc in modulating signaling among neurons, shedding light on its presence in free ion pools. The findings show that manipulating synaptic zinc levels can affect neuronal action, highlighting the complexity of potential therapeutic interventions.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateNov 22, 2006