Brown planetary geologists lend expertise to Mercury mission
Brown students and faculty will analyze data from MESSENGER spacecraft, exploring Mercury's surface composition, geological history, and magnetic field
Science News Archive January 2008
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MIT reports new twist in microRNA biology
Researchers identified two microRNA pairs in fruit fly and eight more in mouse where both DNA strands encode RNA products, which fold into hairpins that are processed into mature microRNAs. This discovery builds on earlier findings about microRNA regulation using computational tools to investigate genomes of multiple species.
Snoozing worms help Penn researchers explain the evolution of sleep
C. elegans displays a sleep-like state called lethargus, which parallels human sleep patterns and is linked to nervous system development, suggesting that sleep facilitates neural growth and adaptation.
Ways to improve informed consent are testable, study says
A new questionnaire tool was developed to assess the informed consent process in clinical trials. The tool aimed to educate potential participants on the risks and benefits of taking part in research. However, the results showed that the tool did not improve informed consent in this experiment. Despite this, the study's findings provid...
Xie Lab characterizes niche control of stem cell function
The Xie Lab found that Drosophila ovarian germline stem cells can out-compete normal stem cells for a position in the niche by invading neighboring cells and increasing cellular response to E-cadherin. This mechanism ensures only undifferentiated stem cells remain in the niche.
CU-Boulder scientists ready for NASA's MESSENGER Mission flyby of Mercury
Scientists at CU-Boulder's Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics are leading a team that will make measurements of Mercury's surface and tenuous atmosphere using the MESSENGER spacecraft. The mission will provide new insights into the composition, formation, and evolution of Mercury.
Jefferson scientists find protein helps pancreatic cancer cells evade immune system and spread
Scientists discovered that metastatic pancreatic cancer cells produce enough of the protein IDO to evade detection by the immune system, allowing them to spread in the body. This finding may lead to new ways to detect pancreatic cancer spreading to lymph nodes and enhance tumor immune therapy strategies.
Stevens' Research Experience for Undergraduates site funded by National Science Foundation
The Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) site at Stevens Institute of Technology has been renewed with a three-year, $305,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. The project focuses on increasing spectrum utilization in wireless networks for both military and commercial applications.
Extreme obesity affects chances of kidney transplantation
A study by Dr. Dorry L. Segev and colleagues found that severe obesity is associated with a lower chance of receiving a kidney transplant, even after adjusting for medical factors. Obese patients tend to wait longer and are more likely to be bypassed when a kidney becomes available.
A single simple algorithm could be used to identify severe illness in infants aged 0–2 months
A simple checklist of seven clinical signs and symptoms can identify sick newborns with life-threatening illnesses, reducing neonatal mortality. The algorithm has high sensitivity and specificity in both early and late infancy, improving the adaptation and implementation of IMCI guidelines.
UBC astronomer produces first detailed map of dark matter in a supercluster
For the first time, astronomers have directly visualized the distribution of dark matter in a supercluster, allowing for the detection of irregular clumps and detailed shapes. This breakthrough study, led by UBC researcher Catherine Heymans, uses NASA's Hubble Space Telescope to map the Abell 901/902 supercluster.
Nanotechnology innovation may revolutionize gene detection in a single cell
Researchers at Arizona State University develop a gene detection platform using self-assembled DNA nanostructures, enabling label-free detection of RNA genes in single cells. The technology has potential applications for disease diagnosis and could revolutionize the way gene expression is analyzed.
SAGE's American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine looks at the health benefit of oats
The article explores the results of the ‘Oats at 10 Years’ study, which tracked the correlation between oat consumption and a healthier lifestyle. The study found that foods containing whole-oat sources of soluble fiber, such as oats, oat bran, and oat flour, could reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
Autism risk higher in people with gene variant
Researchers found a link between a specific gene variant and autism, particularly when inherited from mothers. The study suggests that the CNTNAP2 gene may play a role in brain cell development and differentiation.
Genomic screen nets hundreds of human proteins exploited by HIV
Researchers identified 273 human proteins required for HIV propagation using RNA interference, a technique that was previously untested on this scale. The study provides new insights into the HIV life cycle and offers potential new therapeutics.
The violent lives of galaxies: Caught in the cosmic matter web
Galaxies in crowded environments, like superclusters, experience violent lives due to high-speed collisions and stripping away of gas. The Hubble Space Telescope's Advanced Camera for Surveys mapped dark matter scaffolding, revealing dense clumps that match the location of old galaxies.
International brain aging expert challenges the existence of Alzheimer's as a 'disease'
International brain aging expert Peter Whitehouse questions current approaches to Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment, suggesting that AD represents our culture's attempt to make sense of natural brain aging. The book offers practical advice and information on how to maintain cognitive vitality and a sense of fulfillment as we age.
Researchers challenge previous findings regarding widely used asthma treatment
A new study has found that widely used asthma medication long-acting beta-agonists may not be associated with adverse events based on a patient's genotype. The study analyzed data from two clinical trials and found no differences in asthma symptoms or control between patients with different beta-2 adrenergic receptor genotypes.
UT Southwestern scientist honored among best in Texas research
Dr. Beth Levine, a renowned specialist in autophagy, received the award for medicine for her groundbreaking work that has propelled forward medical research on cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and infectious diseases. Her investigations have identified key genes involved in autophagy, contributing to various diseases.
Supernova remnants dance in the LMC
Two distinct gas and dust clouds formed by different types of supernova explosions are detected in DEM L316 nebula, with one shell containing more iron suggesting a Type Ia supernova. The two shells appear to be aligned by chance in the sky due to their vastly different ages.
Protein in human hair shows promise for regenerating nerves
A protein found in human hair, keratin, has been shown to speed up nerve regeneration and improve nerve function in animal studies. The study used keratin-filled gels to repair nerve gaps and showed promising results compared to current treatment options.
Common molecule notifies immune system of prostate cancer
Immune cells can detect prostate cancer using a specific receptor on T cells, which recognizes the cancerous tumor. The molecular signpost is histone H4, a protein found in all cells but displayed only on the surface of tumor cells.
A new way to boost red blood cell numbers
Researchers discovered that Gas6 protein increases cell signaling in response to Epo treatment, enhancing its therapeutic potential for treating anemia. The study also found that mice deficient in Gas6 have decreased sensitivity to Epo and reduced ability to recover from anemia.
Scientists map out potential for restoring California fisher populations
Researchers have identified potential habitats in the central and northern Sierra Nevada Mountains for reintroducing California fishers, a rare and elusive carnivore. The study suggests caution in implementing reintroduction efforts due to limited connectivity and distance from existing populations.
For nutrition info, moms like the Web best
A new study found that low-income mothers prefer receiving nutrition information on the web rather than through a video game or printed pamphlet. The study suggests that websites are a smart strategy for certain groups, particularly in increasing nutrition literacy.
Physicists uncover new solution for cosmic collisions
Theoretical physicists use mathematical modeling to describe interstellar shock waves, which could provide insights into the formation of stars, planets, and life. The study's findings have implications for NASA's upcoming missions and may shed light on the solar system's history and chemical origins.
Older Arctic sea ice replaced by young, thin ice, says CU-Boulder study
A new study indicates older Arctic sea ice is being replaced by younger, thinner ice, making the region more susceptible to rapid melt. The researchers used satellite data to reconstruct past Arctic sea ice conditions and found that 58% of remaining perennial ice is thin and only 2-3 years old.
A PIN(1) prick for lung scarring: inhibiting PIN1 reduces rodent lung scarring
Inhibiting PIN1 has been shown to reduce airway fibrosis driven by TGF-beta-1 production in rodents with chronic asthma. Mice lacking PIN1 also exhibited reduced airway fibrosis when exposed to allergens.
KSU Press receives grant from Mellon Foundation for ethnomusicology series
The three publishers will collaborate on a five-year project to publish ethnomusicology scholarship and make emerging research more accessible. They will develop digital formats for monographs and fieldwork materials, and offer enhanced online access to scholars.
Chandra data reveal rapidly whirling black holes
A new study using Chandra X-ray Observatory results provides evidence that many supermassive black holes are spinning extremely rapidly. The research suggests that these fast-spinning black holes can drive powerful jets, pumping energy into their environment and affecting galaxy growth.
Researchers shed light on genetic factors behind UK's biggest killer
Researchers have identified a new chromosomal region strongly associated with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. This discovery may lead to the development of new therapies for coronary heart disease, which claims over 250,000 lives annually in the UK.
Fighting pollution the poplar way: Trees to clean up Indiana site
Researchers are using transgenic poplars to remove pollutants from a contaminated site in north-central Indiana. The trees have been shown to absorb and break down contaminants such as trichloroethylene, making them a promising solution for phytoremediation.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory's lung cancer research program awarded $100,000 grant
A $100,000 grant from Joan's Legacy will enable Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory to build upon recent lung cancer discoveries, focusing on epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) and their potential link to estrogen. The research aims to understand how EGFR genetic mutations contribute to non-small cell lung cancer development.
JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 10 2008
Researchers found that Gas6 protein increases cell signaling in response to Epo treatment and treats both chronic and acute anemia in mice. Additionally, mice deficient in Gas6 have decreased sensitivity to Epo and reduced ability to recover from anemia.
New picture of HIV-1's protein jacket identifies target for antibody-based vaccine
Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School have identified a target for an antibody-based HIV-1 vaccine by revealing the structure of a key surface protein. The discovery may help overcome challenges in developing a vaccine due to the virus's envelope protein variations and sugar molecules.
NASA scientists predict black hole light echo show
Researchers found that rapidly spinning black holes produce light echoes, where X-ray photons travel different paths around the black hole, causing a constant delay independent of source position. This effect would allow astronomers to measure black hole masses with high accuracy.
Researchers move 2 steps closer to understanding genetic underpinnings of autism
Researchers have validated the association between CNTNAP2 and autistic behaviors in the general population, validating an earlier finding. This discovery highlights the potential of small science approaches and may lead to early diagnostic tests for autism.
High blood pressure in older adults traced to gene's effects in blood vessels
Researchers at Ohio State University identified a genetic link between the profilin 1 gene and increased risk of high blood pressure in older adults. The gene affects vascular remodeling, which can lead to structural and functional changes in blood vessels, ultimately causing hypertension.
Hubble finds double Einstein ring
The Hubble Space Telescope has discovered a double Einstein ring, caused by the bending of light from two distant galaxies behind a massive foreground galaxy. The discovery offers insights into dark matter and the nature of distant galaxies.
UCLA scientists identify new genetic link to autism
Researchers at UCLA discovered a strong association between the contactin-associated protein-like 2 (CNTNAP2) gene and autism, particularly in boys. The study found that CNTNAP2 is most active in brain regions involved with language and thought, suggesting a link to speech delay and other symptoms of autism.
Africa's biggest mammals key to ant-plant teamwork
A study reveals that elephants, giraffes, and other large plant-eaters spur Acacia trees to hire ants as bodyguards, but without them, the trees suffer. The research highlights how people's impacts on ecosystems can cascade down unexpected paths.
New research demonstrates potential diagnosis, treatment benefits
Researchers have made significant advances in treating and diagnosing LAM through the use of sirolimus and serum VEGF-D test, showing improved lung function and reduced tumor growth. These studies provide hope for patients suffering from this deadly disease, paving the way for targeted therapies.
Genetic breakthrough offers promise in tackling kidney tumors
Researchers at Cardiff University have made promising progress in treating tuberous sclerosis, an inherited disease that causes tumours to grow in organs. After a year of Sirolimus treatment, kidney tumour diameters shrunk by 26% on average.
Joni Gladowsky Breast Cancer Foundation funds CSHL's innovative breast cancer research
The Joni Gladowsky Breast Cancer Foundation has funded CSHL's innovative breast cancer research, led by Dr. Senthil Muthuswamy, to develop alternative treatment strategies for early-stage breast cancer. The foundation aims to identify genetic differences between benign and malignant lesions to prevent cancer progression.
Lasting impression: Does the face of a CEO determine a successful company?
A recent study found that college students could accurately distinguish between successful and unsuccessful CEOs based on their facial features, which were rated for competence, dominance, likeability, maturity, and trustworthiness. The study suggests that first impressions can be a reliable indicator of leadership abilities.
Story ideas from the Journal of Lipid Research
Blocking the enzyme SCD1 reduces fat accumulation, improves insulin sensitivity and weight loss in FH-mice affected by metabolic syndrome. This finding highlights SCD1 as a potential drug target for individuals with familial hyperlipidemia and metabolic syndrome.
CSHL scientists identify cells that promote formation of lethal lung metastases
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered endothelial progenitor cells that regulate tumor growth and transform dormant lung metastases into life-threatening lesions. Targeting these cells may provide a novel approach to treating lung cancer.
Feeling the heat
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a novel method to synthesize silicon nanowires with exceptionally rough surfaces, which exhibit high thermoelectric efficiency. This breakthrough technology could enable the widespread adoption of thermoelectric materials in various applications.
Supercomputer could throw light on 'mysterious' dark energy
Researchers used supercomputing power to simulate the early Universe and identify potential methods for measuring dark energy. The study's findings will help design a proposed satellite mission called SPACE, which aims to unveil the nature of dark energy and its role in the Universe's accelerating expansion.
Eat less or exercise more? Either way leads to more youthful hearts
A yearlong study showed that overweight individuals who lose a moderate amount of weight experience improved heart health, regardless of whether it's achieved through calorie restriction or exercise. The researchers found that participants' hearts regained some of the elasticity characteristic of younger heart tissue, allowing them to ...
Carbon offset warning from international team of scientists
A leading international team of marine scientists has warned that it is too early to sell carbon offsets from ocean iron fertilization. The researchers emphasize the need for larger-scale experiments to assess the efficiency and potential side effects of this method, which could have unintended ecological impacts.
Auditory neurons in humans far more sensitive to fine sound frequencies than most mammals
Researchers found that human auditory neurons can detect subtle frequency differences down to a tenth of an octave, surpassing other mammals. This sensitivity may be linked to musical skill and cognitive abilities such as working memory.
A paired sedation and ventilator weaning protocol ...
A new protocol combining daily spontaneous awakening trials with spontaneous breathing trials results in better outcomes for mechanically ventilated patients, including shorter ventilation periods and earlier discharge. The study found that this approach improved clinical outcomes without increasing adverse events.
Stanford researchers publish review of US medical device regulation
Researchers at Stanford University have released a comprehensive review of US medical device regulation, highlighting the differences between regulations guiding medical devices versus pharmaceuticals. The report emphasizes the complexity of the approval process and post-market surveillance administered by the FDA.
Most people with diabetes should be considered for statin therapy
A meta-analysis of 18,686 individuals with diabetes and 71,370 without diabetes found a significant reduction in all-cause mortality and major vascular events with statin therapy. The study suggests that most people with diabetes should now be considered for statin therapy.
Rutgers wireless networking lab awarded Alexander Schwarzkopf Prize for Technological Innovation
The Rutgers University Wireless Information Networking Laboratory has established a unique facility for testing new mobile computing and communications technologies. The ORBIT Open Access Radio Grid Testbed features a 400-node programmable radio transceiver emulation laboratory and an outdoor field trial system.
Happy 60th, NHS ... possibly
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) is turning 60, but its future is uncertain due to a lack of scientific focus on health-system reform. The Editorial calls for a radical change in the NHS's training system and culture to address its fundamental problems.
UT Health Science Center researchers decoding saliva to detect breast cancer
Researchers have identified specific protein markers in human saliva that can provide an early, non-invasive diagnosis of breast cancer. The study found 49 proteins that differentiated healthy patients from those with benign and malignant breast tumors.
Overactive nerves in head and neck may account for 'ringing in the ears'
Research by Michigan Medicine suggests that overactive nerves in the head and neck may contribute to tinnitus. Acupuncture and trigger point therapy may be effective treatments for people with 'ringing in the ears'. The study found hyperactivity of touch-sensing neurons in animals, which could lead to new insights into the condition.
Pediatricians call for a cohesive definition of metabolic syndrome in children
Researchers from the Pediatric Metabolic Syndrome Working Group explore the potential for a unified definition of metabolic syndrome in children, highlighting the need for clear identification of risk factors. They find that waist circumference and weight-to-height ratios may be more accurate than body mass index alone in determining m...