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Science News for June 6, 2010


'Remote control' for cholesterol regulation discovered in brain

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that ghrelin, a hunger-signaling hormone, regulates cholesterol levels in the brain. Increased ghrelin levels caused mice to develop higher blood-circulating cholesterol, suggesting a potential 'remote control' mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 6, 2010

Experimental targeted therapy shows early promise against medulloblastomas

A new experimental drug targeting the Hedgehog pathway has shown early signs of efficacy in pediatric brain tumor patients, with some still on treatment a year after diagnosis. The study's findings have given the green light for larger Phase II studies to advance targeted therapies against medulloblastomas.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·DateJun 6, 2010

New treatment regimen shown effective against advanced ovarian cancer

A new treatment regimen combining bevacizumab with standard chemotherapy significantly extends progression-free survival for women with advanced ovarian cancer, reducing disease worsening to 14.1 months compared to 10.3 months. The trial results also point to the possibility of more personalized and effective treatment in the future.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateJun 6, 2010

A new approach to finding and removing defects in graphene

Brown University researchers have gained new insights into graphene defects through molecular dynamic simulations. They found that oxygen atoms forming double bonds with carbon create irregular holes in the lattice. The team proposes adding hydrogen to remove impurities and heal the holes.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 6, 2010
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Chester A. Mathis receives SNM's 2010 Aebersold Award

Chester A. Mathis receives SNM's 2010 Aebersold Award for his groundbreaking work on early detection in Alzheimer's disease using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging techniques. This recognition acknowledges the significant contributions of Dr. Mathis to advancing molecular imaging and nuclear medicine.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 6, 2010

Scientists discover ancient viral invasion that shaped human genome

Researchers found that viruses invading the human genome millions of years ago have changed gene regulation in human embryonic stem cells. The discovery provides definitive proof of a theory proposed by Barbara McClintock and has significant implications for regenerative medicine.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 6, 2010

Scientists begin to unravel causes of mysterious skin disease

Researchers have discovered variations in 10 genes associated with immune response in people with vitiligo, pointing to multiple cellular pathways contributing to the disease. The findings offer potential starting points for developing therapies tailored to individual genetic susceptibilities.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 6, 2010