Suppressing cancer with a master control gene
Researchers discover gene ATOH1 regulates cell specialization, preventing cancer formation in organisms. Reactivating the gene in human colon cancer cells halts tumor growth and induces cell death.
Science News Archive 2009 - Page 240
Browse by Month - 2009
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Previous work experience not always a positive for a new job
A study found that prior work experience can lead to lower performance at a new job, as workers bring old habits and skills that don't adapt to the new role. Employees who score high on adaptability and fit in with their company's culture tend to perform better.
How can bias be prevented in the medical literature?
Bias in medical literature can be prevented through recognition and declaration of competing interests, detailed authorship policies, and mechanisms to control outcome reporting bias. The PLoS Medicine editors propose these measures to reestablish the integrity of the scientific record.
Overdoing it? Simple techniques can help avoid overindulgence
A new study demonstrates simple techniques to avoid extreme actions when feeling depressed or happy. Focusing on reasons why feelings will pass or last can help individuals act in their long-term interests.
Technique tricks bacteria into generating their own vaccine
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a way to modify bacterial sugar molecules, which could be used to create potent vaccines. This technique allows for the easy production of vaccine components through simple fermentation.
Do experiences or material goods make us happier?
A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that highly materialistic individuals were equally happy with positive purchases of either experiential or material goods. However, emotional intensity decreases more quickly after material purchases than experiential ones.
Cholesterol-reducing drugs may lessen brain function, says ISU researcher
A study by ISU researcher Yeon-Kyun Shin found that statins can reduce brain function by depriving the brain of cholesterol, a vital component for efficient brain function. This affects neurotransmitter release, data-processing, and memory functions.
Researchers solve mystery of deep-sea fish with tubular eyes and transparent head
Researchers discovered that a deep-sea fish's tubular eyes can rotate within a transparent shield, allowing it to peer up at prey or focus forward to see its surroundings. This unique adaptation enables the 'barreleye' fish to capture small prey and navigate through the dark environment.
Enhanced skin cancer risk linked to defects in cellular aging controls
A new study describes how telomere dysfunction in skin cells can lead to increased skin cancer risk and pigmentation. Limiting the activity of a tumor suppressor protein, p53, restores cell regeneration but also advances skin cancer progression.
Learning from our mistakes: Consumers won't be deceived twice
Researchers found that consumers' quality expectations were initially misled by biasing cues, but they learned from these mistakes and made more accurate judgments in subsequent purchases. The study suggests marketers should rethink their strategies for misleading consumers with false attributes, as it may backfire on repeat purchases.
Mail and electronic reminders may increase colon cancer screening
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that mail reminders increased colon cancer screening rates by 44% compared to non-reminded patients. Electronic physician reminders also showed promise, especially among patients with three or more primary care visits, resulting in a 59.5% screening rate.
Portable kit may 1 day detect plant disease before disastrous outbreak
A briefcase-sized kit, called PADLOC, aims to detect plant diseases rapidly and accurately, allowing farmers to take action to prevent damage. The kit uses nanotechnology to measure microorganisms and provide real-time recommendations for farmers.
Women less likely to have a stroke after mini-stroke
Research reveals women are 30 percent less likely to experience a stroke within 30 days of a mini-stroke, with significant reductions in cardiac events and mortality rates over the course of one year.
Shape-shifting coral evade identification
Researchers used genetic markers to study coral groupings and found that skeletal shape is not a reliable way to differentiate species. This discovery highlights the need for accurate understanding of coral biodiversity to conserve coral reefs.
Tips from the American Journal of Pathology
Researchers found that HAART contributes to pulmonary hypertension in HIV-infected patients by impairing blood vessel-lining endothelial cell function. A novel treatment for chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) involves neprilysin, which protects against PHTN by regulating neural signaling molecules.
Relationships in rank and file
Researchers Johannes Soeding and Andreas Biegert have developed a new method called CS-BLAST that takes into account the sequence context to improve similarity searches. This approach can identify twice as many distant relatives of proteins compared to traditional BLAST, leading to better insights into gene and protein functions.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2009
Arizona State University research team to receive new US Department of Defense Minerva award
A US Department of Defense-funded project led by Arizona State University aims to understand strategies used by Muslims in West Africa and Europe to counter extremist interpretations. The research, titled 'Finding Allies for the War of Words,' involves a global team of scholars from multiple disciplines.
Canadian scientist mines drugs database for new diabetes treatment
Researchers develop cheap and efficient method to identify small molecules for diabetes treatment, finding NAADP plays a crucial role in insulin secretion. This discovery could lead to a new class of drugs to treat type 2 diabetes.
SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateFeb 23, 2009
Vitamin D deficiency may increase risk of colds, flu
A large-scale study suggests that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of respiratory infections, such as colds and flu. Individuals with chronic respiratory disorders, like asthma and emphysema, are particularly susceptible to these infections.
Children in single-parent households and stepfamilies benefit from time with grandparents
Research found that adolescents in single-parent households and stepfamilies who spend more time with their grandparents experience better emotional and behavioral adjustment. They report reduced hyperactivity and improved peer relationships.
Lower increases in global temps could lead to greater impacts than previously thought, study finds
A new study by Stanford University scientists updates IPCC findings, suggesting even smaller temperature increases could cause significant problems in unique ecosystems, extreme weather events, distribution of impacts, aggregate damages, and risks of large-scale discontinuities. The research highlights increased evidence of climate cha...
Patient knowledge of health information influences cancer treatment
A study published by the American Cancer Society found that patients seeking health information online are more likely to be aware of and receive the latest cancer treatments. Patients who search for information on targeted therapies like Avastin and Erbitux are up to 3.22 times more likely to receive these treatments.
Building a better protein
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a targeted strategy to substantially increase the thermodynamic stability of nearly any protein while preserving its unique function. The design technique creates proteins that remain stable at temperatures 10 degrees Celsius higher than normal.
SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2009
Using wireless sensors to monitor bridge safety
A network of low-power wireless sensors will be used to capture and transmit data on bridge conditions, reducing inspection costs. The technology aims to identify signs of corrosion and wear in aging bridges before they fail, ensuring public safety.
Babies born during high pollen and mold seasons have greater odds of wheezing by age 2
Researchers found that children born in the fall and winter have a higher risk of developing early symptoms of asthma due to exposure to fungal spores and pollen. High concentrations of specific spore groups and total pollen concentration during the first three months of life were linked to an increased risk of early wheezing.
Fate and 'face': Cultural differences lead to different consumer approaches
A new study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that Asian consumers are more tolerant of nonsocial failures due to their strong belief in fate, while Western consumers are more demanding. The researchers also discovered that brands emphasizing fate can increase Asian consumers' tolerance for social failures.
Kids who watch R-rated movies are more likely to smoke
A new study found that parental permission to watch R-rated movies increases the likelihood that children believe it's easy to obtain cigarettes. This perception is associated with a higher risk of smoking among kids, suggesting parental smoking and home environment can contribute to youth smoking.
Does sex sell? New study shows how to make women respond to sexy ads
A new study suggests that women's attitudes toward sexually oriented advertising can improve if ads depict sex in a manner consistent with women's intrinsic values, such as devotion and commitment. Experiment 1 found that commitment-related cues in the ad boosted women's attitudes towards the product.
AGI reports on the state of geoscience employment
The AGI Workforce Program releases its third chapter, Geoscience Employment Sectors, which examines the demographics and dynamics of the geoscience workforce. The report provides insights into salaries, experience, and job transitions for geosciences graduates, as well as employment projections for 2016.
Human stem cells provide a new model for Lou Gehrig's disease
Researchers have developed a human cell-derived model of ALS, allowing for the study of the disease's progression and potential therapeutics. The model, derived from motor neurons generated from human embryonic stem cells, exhibits characteristics typical of the disease.
Revolutionary method generates new template for microelectronics
Researchers at UMass Amherst and Berkeley developed a new method for producing defect-free, thin polymer films using layered block copolymers. The technique achieved densities over 15 times higher than previous efforts, enabling up to 10 terabits per square inch of storage space.
New twist on 40-year-old discovery
Researchers have discovered a new connection between Carter's constant and Newtonian gravity, shedding light on the behavior of rotating black holes. The findings have significant implications for gravitational-wave astronomy, potentially allowing the detection of small black hole orbits.
New technique for cancer screening
Researchers have developed a new technique to determine tumor methylation status in archived tissue samples, providing a potential biomarker for early cancer diagnosis and risk assessment. The technique uses high-resolution melting analysis and has been validated on archival and fresh tissues.
UAB researchers report breakthrough in HPV research
UAB researchers have developed a new method to produce and study HPV-18, which could lead to a better understanding of how the virus functions and causes diseases. The new approach allows for the reproduction of the entire infection cycle of HPV-18 in primary human skin cells, providing opportunities to understand its molecular mechani...
Don't touch that dial! Watching commercials leads to greater enjoyment of TV programs
A study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that commercials improve television viewing experience by disrupting viewer adaptation, making shows more enjoyable. Commercial interruptions were particularly beneficial for younger consumers and certain types of content, such as sitcoms and documentaries.
What the heck is it? Consumers can be primed to understand hybrid products
Researchers found that exposing consumers to product features from outside their initial category can increase awareness and improve evaluations. Hybrid products, such as phones with cameras or watch/cameras, often confuse consumers due to the single-category belief problem.
Don't flatter yourself: Why survey research can be flawed
A new study reveals that socially desirable responding, where people present a more favorable image of themselves, affects the accuracy of surveys globally. Cognitive busyness and cultural orientation play a significant role in this phenomenon.
JCI table of contents: Feb. 23, 2009
Researchers developed small molecules targeting Hsp90 in mitochondria to induce tumor cell death. This combinatorial approach may be more effective than targeting single signaling pathways. Gene therapy also restored muscle strength in a mouse model of muscular dystrophy by anchoring nNOS to the sarcolemma.
Male infertility associated with testicular cancer
Men with male factor infertility are 2.8 times more likely to develop testicular cancer than those without this condition. A total of 34 men diagnosed with testicular cancer were found in a study of 22,562 infertile men.
Get personal to improve heart health
A new study suggests that doctors and nurses should offer high-risk patients targeted advice to improve heart health. The research found that boosting patients' sense of vulnerability does not help, but rather provides personalized information on specific CHD preventative diets.
2009 DeLee Humanitarian Award goes to Marshall Lindheimer, M.D., of the University of Chicago
Marshall Lindheimer, a renowned expert in kidney function and blood pressure control during pregnancy, has made significant contributions to the understanding of preeclampsia. His research has led to the development of treatments for transient diabetes insipidus during pregnancy.
Patience pays off with methanol for uranium bioremediation
Researchers find methanol enhances uranium reduction in contaminated ground water and sediment. Methanol use results in almost complete uranium reduction compared to ethanol or glucose, suggesting potential for improved long-term bioremediation stability.
Ultra-fine coatings on sediment grains influence nitrate and sulfate storage in soil
Scientists found that the mineral composition of these coatings can have a substantial effect on the retention of nitrate and sulfate. Understanding this mechanism is critical to protecting groundwater resources.
Study finds brain hub that links music, memory and emotion
A recent study found that a specific region of the brain serves as a hub linking familiar music, memories, and emotions. The medial prefrontal cortex region is crucial for supporting and retrieving memories, and it also tracks tonal progressions in music, strengthening autobiographical memory connections.
Houseplant pest gives clue to potential new anthrax treatment
Researchers found a citric acid-based Achilles heel in the African Violet houseplant pathogen that could be exploited to treat Anthrax. A common strategy to block both Anthrax and African Violet siderophore synthesis pathways has been identified, offering new possibilities for combating infections.
Calcium associated with lower risk of cancer in women
Women with higher calcium intake have a lower risk of cancer overall and specific digestive system cancers like colorectal cancer, according to the study. Calcium consumption was inversely associated with an increased risk of these types of cancers in both men and women.
Aneurysms don't occur earlier in second generation
A new study suggests that genetic risk factors for brain aneurysms do not accumulate earlier in the second generation, contrary to previous research. The study found that aneurysm ruptures occur slightly later in life in the second generation.
UCSF Gallo team reports hormone disorder drug could help drinkers stay sober
A study by UCSF researchers found that cabergoline, a hormone disorder drug, decreased alcohol consumption and relapse in rodents. The drug showed specificity for alcohol, not affecting general reward or pleasure.
Reduction in parasite infections ahead for India
Experts from Queen's University are in India to advise on reducing parasitic infections that destroy plants and animals, costing the world economy $200 billion annually. The delegation will share their expertise on managing drug resistance in livestock and promoting modern agricultural practices.
Origin of galactic comic rays focus of NASA grant
Astrophysicists at Washington University in St. Louis will design and build Super-TIGER to measure the abundances of ultra-heavy galactic cosmic ray nuclei. The instrument aims to better understand the mechanism by which elements are accelerated in interstellar dust grains.
Caltech and UCSD researchers shed light on how proteins find their shapes
Researchers combined Caltech's experimental technique with UCSD's protein-folding models to understand cytochrome c's precise folding pattern. The models successfully accounted for charge-charge interactions and hydrophobic interactions, matching experimental data.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 23, 2009
For Iraq veterans, headaches continue after traumatic brain injury
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that nearly 98% of soldiers who experienced a concussion or head injury while deployed in Iraq had headaches during their last deployment. The headaches often started within one week of the traumatic brain injury, with 60% experiencing migraine-like headaches.
Don't write off seniors: Retirees are pursuing their life dreams
Research reveals that retirees are actively engaging in new projects and revisiting old interests, seeking personal growth and fulfillment. The study identifies two types of identity work: self-expression and affiliation, which help seniors create a lasting legacy or connect with others.
'Experiment of nature' examines how mother's diet may impact on child's health
A new study investigates whether a mother's diet during pregnancy affects her offspring's methylation patterns and long-term health outcomes. Researchers will measure the diets of pregnant women in The Gambia and compare them to their children's DNA methylation patterns.
Arsenic and old toenails
Researchers from the University of Leicester and British Geological Survey have devised a method to identify levels of environmental arsenic by testing toenail clippings. They found elevated levels of arsenic in people living close to a former arsenic mine, but more research is needed to confirm potential health risks.
The high risk of epilepsy in children and young adults lasts years after traumatic brain injury
A study of over 1.6 million young people in Denmark found that traumatic brain injury significantly increases the risk of epilepsy, with risks persisting for more than a decade after the injury. The risk is particularly high for those with severe brain injuries or family histories of epilepsy.
Safer nanoparticles spotlight tumors, deliver drugs
Researchers have created miniscule silicon flakes that glow brightly, slowly releasing cancer drugs before breaking down into harmless by-products. The particles showed promising results in mice, reducing tumor growth over several weeks.
Scientists identify lab-made proteins that neutralize multiple strains of seasonal and pandemic flu
Researchers identified human monoclonal antibodies that can neutralize a broad range of influenza A viruses, including seasonal and pandemic flu strains. These antibodies offer potential for treatment and prevention of the flu during outbreaks or pandemics.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 22, 2009
Scientists identify human monoclonal antibodies effective against bird and seasonal flu viruses
Researchers identified human monoclonal antibodies that bind to the stem of H5 type hemaglutinin, preventing viral entry into host cells. These antibodies offer potential cross-protection against various flu strains, including bird and seasonal influenza viruses.
Rett Syndrome Research Trust advisor makes significant discovery
Researchers found that MeCP2-deficient astrocytes stunt neighboring neuron growth but can recover when exposed to normal glia. This discovery supports the use of glial cells as targets for drug development, potentially leading to new treatments for Rett Syndrome and related MECP2 disorders.