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Science News Archive 2012 - Page 3


Page 3 of 333

miR-205 can be responsible for breast cancer

A new study challenges previous views on miR-205's function in breast cancer. Research found that miR-205 is overexpressed in transformed cells and contributes to the abnormal morphology of acini. The findings suggest miR-205 can act as an oncogene, promoting cell growth or inhibiting apoptosis.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOncomiRs·DateDec 21, 2012

Many causes for learning lags in tumor disorder

New research sheds light on the complexities of learning problems in neurofibromatosis 1 patients. The study found that both increased RAS function and reduced dopamine levels contribute to cognitive dysfunction in individuals with NF1. Developing personalized therapies is now a priority.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateDec 21, 2012

JCI early table of contents for Dec. 21, 2012

Researchers found that Xbp1s regulates liver metabolic switch after eating, while low iron accelerates H. pylori-induced gastric cancer. Additionally, p62 is crucial for brown fat thermogenesis, and dendritic cells play a protective role in atherosclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 21, 2012

May the force be with the atomic probe

Theoretical physicists created models to study van der Waals-Casimir-Polder (vdW-CP) force, which depends on electron diffusion. This finding could contribute to designing minimally invasive surface probes for quantum computer hardware architectures.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateDec 21, 2012

Small wasps to control a big pest?

Researchers have identified five small wasp species that directly attack the younger life stages of the pine wood nematode vector Monochamus galloprovincialis. The study, published in ZooKeys, highlights the potential for these tiny insects to control a major pest affecting southwest Europe pine stands.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateDec 20, 2012

Physicians admit feeling under qualified and lacking necessary education to treat obesity

A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that primary care physicians feel unprepared to address obesity due to inadequate medical education. Despite this, they support additional training and practice-based changes to improve their skills. Key findings include the importance of nutritionists and dietitian...

A nanoscale window to the biological world

Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute invent a way to directly image biological structures at their most fundamental level, providing a gateway to understanding dynamic systems in structural biology. The technique has successfully imaged viruses and other biological structures in their natural environments.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalLab on a Chip·DateDec 20, 2012

University of Alberta research working towards treatment for aortic aneurysms in the abdomen

A research team led by Professor Zamaneh Kassiri has discovered that boosting TIMP3 levels can prevent the development of abdominal aneurysms. The study found that a protein called MMP2, despite being a contributor to heart and vascular disease, did not cause aneurysms when combined with TIMP3 deficiency.

Low vitamin D levels in pregnancy associated with lower birth weights, pitt research finds

Women deficient in vitamin D early in pregnancy are more likely to deliver babies with lower birth weights. Maternal vitamin D deficiency may impact fetal growth by reducing calcium absorption and glucose production, leading to a higher risk of small for gestational age births.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 20, 2012

Silver sheds light on superconductor secrets

Researchers from the Institute of Solid State Physics found that superconductivity is intrinsic to a bismuth-based layered material when doped with silver. The material's characteristics were measured using x-ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, electrical transport, and thermal transport.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateDec 20, 2012

UGA research offers new targets for stroke treatments

Researchers at the University of Georgia have identified a new target for stroke treatments using candesartan, which increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor and stimulates angiogenesis. This approach has the potential to improve recovery outcomes for stroke patients and may also benefit veterans with traumatic brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateDec 20, 2012

Transplanted genetically-modified adipose cells offer potential therapy for liver diseases

Researchers have successfully transplanted genetically modified adipose cells into mice with liver disease, demonstrating their potential as a therapy. The study used bioluminescent imaging to track the cells' migration and engraftment in the liver, revealing their ability to persist for up to two months.

Gene expression improves the definition of a breast cancer subtype

A recent study by Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology has led to the redefinition of hormone-sensitive breast tumours, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Gene expression analysis revealed discrepancies between histopathological data and molecular profiles, prompting a new definition that incorporates progesterone receptor levels.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 20, 2012

Sync to grow

Researchers discovered that embryo growth is controlled by oscillating gene expression in neighboring cells, resulting in well-proportioned animals. The speed of this wave determines the size of future vertebrae, with faster waves indicating larger vertebrae.

Extending steroid treatment does not benefit children with hard-to-treat kidney disease

A new study found that six months of steroid treatment didn't reduce relapse rates or side effects in children with nephrotic syndrome, challenging previous assumptions about optimal treatment strategies. The research highlights the need for new treatment strategies to prevent frequent relapses in this disease.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 20, 2012