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Science News for September 6, 2010


With HMGB1's help, cells dine in

A team of researchers discovered HMGB1 as a critical pro-autophagic protein that enhances cell survival and limits programmed cell death. This finding suggests blocking HMGB1 could benefit cancer patients by preventing tumor cells from revving up autophagy to withstand chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation treatment

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 6, 2010

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that a low-carb diet based on animal protein may increase death risk compared to a vegetable-based diet. Additionally, patients often overestimate the benefits of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and radiation-free magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) offers an accurate diagnosis for peripheral arterial disease.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 6, 2010

Carbon mapping breakthrough

Researchers created high-resolution maps of carbon storage and emissions in the Peruvian Amazon, revealing patterns that differ among forest types and geology. The study's findings could inform the United Nations' REDD initiative and provide financial incentives to reduce deforestation and degradation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2010

Gambling on breast scans

Researchers developed a Monte Carlo analysis tool to optimize X-ray mammography, improving image quality and reducing radiation dose. The algorithm may also detect cancerous tissue in breasts automatically.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Low Radiation·DateSep 6, 2010

Largest ever epigenetics project launched

The Epitwin project will analyze methylation patterns of 20 million sites in DNA from 5,000 twins to identify differences that explain why identical twins don't develop the same diseases. This study has the potential to uncover key genes responsible for disease and accelerate research into human healthcare.

The brain speaks

Researchers translated brain signals into words using two grids of 16 microelectrodes implanted beneath the skull but atop the brain. The study showed that the method can distinguish between brain signals for each word, with an accuracy rate of 76-90%, demonstrating proof of concept.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateSep 6, 2010