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Science News for August 27, 2007


New study may explain Vioxx side effects

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine suggests that COX-2 inhibitors like Vioxx trigger life-threatening side effects by stimulating blood clotting. The researchers propose a solution by administering TF-reducing drugs alongside Cox-2 inhibitors to treat people safely

SourceJournal of Experimental Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateAug 27, 2007

NASA: Astronomers pioneer new method for probing exotic matter

Astronomers have pioneered a new technique to measure the properties of neutron stars, allowing them to study the extreme conditions under which matter is packed. Using XMM-Newton and Suzaku satellites, scientists observed distorted space-time around three neutron stars, confirming predictions by Einstein's theory of general relativity.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 27, 2007

Conaway Lab demonstrates mechanism by which transcription factor controls gene expression

The Conaway Lab has discovered a critical role for the chromatin remodeling complex INO80 in activating transcription mediated by the transcription factor YY1. This finding provides new insights into how YY1 regulates gene expression, which is crucial for cell cycle control and may have implications for cancer therapy.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 27, 2007

Nanowire coating for bone implants, stents

Researchers have developed a nanowire coating on titanium that enhances muscle tissue adhesion for hip replacements and dental reconstructions. The material can also be easily sterilized using UV light or ethanol, making it suitable for hospital settings and food processing plants.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateAug 27, 2007

Cells united against cancer

Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered that tightly organized epithelial cells can suppress malignant cell proliferation, with a focus on the LKB1 tumor suppressor gene. The study found that epithelial cells lacking LKB1 protein form disorganized structures enabling cancer genes to drive proliferation.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2007

The world's oldest bacteria

A research team has found ancient bacteria with active and living DNA, marking the oldest finding of organisms containing life on Earth. The discovery sheds light on cell aging and regeneration processes.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2007

American Chemical Society's Weekly Press Pac

The American Chemical Society presents groundbreaking research on the biotechnology of health and wellness, including a study that reveals 'good' cholesterol can be bad for the heart. Additionally, scientists uncover new information about HDL cholesterol's protein composition, which could lead to more accurate lab tests and life-saving...

Bioengineers at University of Pennsylvania devise nanoscale system to measure cellular forces

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania devise nanoscale system to observe how individual cells react to external forces. The study shows that cells respond to outside forces and demonstrate a remote response from the cell’s internal forces., The findings prove useful for understanding tissue growth, function, and disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 27, 2007