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Science News Archive August 2009 - Page 18


Page 18 of 22

Extension of vaccination policy could be more effective than giving antivirals to healthy adults with flu

A recent study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases suggests that extending the vaccination policy could be a more clinically effective and cost-effective strategy for treating seasonal flu. The study analyzed the effectiveness of antiviral treatments and found that vaccination may be a better option for healthy adults, while th...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateAug 7, 2009

Growth spurts

Researchers have observed single colloidal platinum nanocrystals growing in solution using liquid cell in situ transmission electron microscopy. The study reveals complex growth trajectories, including steady and spurt-like growth driven by coalescence events.

Protein folding: Diverse methods yield clues

Researchers compare two methods for studying protein folding: atomic force microscopy and chemical denaturant method. Both approaches reveal similarities in protein behavior, offering new insights into the forces that shape proteins.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry·DateAug 6, 2009

Nanoscale origami from DNA

Scientists at TUM and Harvard University have successfully programmed DNA to assemble into complex twisted and curved nanoscale shapes. The researchers report achieving precise control over the shape's curvature and twist, with potential applications in building miniaturized devices for biomedical applications.

Beetroot juice boosts stamina, new study shows

A new study published in Journal of Applied Physiology shows that drinking beetroot juice reduces oxygen uptake, allowing individuals to exercise for up to 16% longer. The study also found lower resting blood pressure in those who consumed beetroot juice compared to a placebo.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateAug 6, 2009

More insulin-producing cells, at the flip of a 'switch'

Scientists discover a single transcription factor that can convert alpha cells into functional beta cells, increasing their number eight-fold in mice. The study shows promise for a potential new treatment for type I diabetes, where the body autodestructs beta cells leading to insulin deficiency and complications.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateAug 6, 2009

Yale researchers find key to keeping cells in shape

Yale scientists have discovered a crucial protein that regulates cell size by controlling the exit of potassium and chloride ions. This finding has significant implications for understanding diseases such as sickle cell anemia and neurological disorders, where cell size imbalances can lead to damage.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateAug 6, 2009

Chicken-hearted tyrants

Theropod dinosaurs likely targeted young and small dinosaur species as a primary food source, exploiting their softer bones. This hypothesis is supported by fossil finds and stomach contents, suggesting that giant carnivores mainly fed on juvenile animals, not large herbivorous dinosaurs.

Educate yourself to boost achievement in kids

A University of Michigan researcher suggests that parents who acquire higher education can significantly boost their children's academic achievement. The study found a strong correlation between parental education and language ability in children, with the impact remaining significant even after controlling for other factors.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalMerrill-Palmer Quarterly·DateAug 6, 2009

What makes stem cells tick?

A team of researchers has identified phosphorylated signaling proteins in human embryonic stem cells, shedding light on the mechanisms that determine cell fate. The study's findings may lead to the development of new therapies by controlling stem cell differentiation.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 6, 2009

Scripps Research scientists find early evolution maximized the 'spellchecking' of protein sequences

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have discovered that two separate functions—alanine adding and editing—were joined together in a single enzyme during early evolution. The findings show that the C-Ala domain enhances collaboration between the aminoacylation and editing domains, making them work together synergistically.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateAug 6, 2009

Beep, beep, oops, what was I doing?

A study of 84 students found that those with high working-memory capacity were more resistant to distractions, while those with low capacity struggled to focus. The researchers suggest that improving the brain's ability to filter out irrelevant stimuli could lead to new therapies for easily distracted individuals.

Climbing to new heights in the forest canopy

Climbing plants have evolved remarkable adaptations to ascend walls and trellises, with various modes of attachment, including twining, leaf-climbing, tendril-bearers, root-climbers, and hook-climbers. These structures enable flexibility and withstand mechanical stresses, allowing vines to efficiently transport water and nutrients.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateAug 6, 2009

Live recordings of cell communication

Scientists have recorded live vesicle fusion on the nano-scale using Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET). This breakthrough allows for real-time measurement of vesicle shape and properties, opening up new avenues for understanding neurological and infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2009