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Science News for December 21, 2012


The X factor in liver metabolism

Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center found that activating the unfolded protein response (UPR) triggers the expression of Xbp1s, a protein regulating genes needed for metabolic switch. This suggests Xbp1s could play a role in metabolic disease.

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

Hawaiian Islands are dissolving, study says

Research by Brigham Young University geologists reveals Hawaiian Islands are dissolving from within, with groundwater removing more mineral material than stream water. The study predicts Oahu will continue to grow for up to 1.5 million years before eventually declining in elevation.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateDec 21, 2012

Fighting sleeping sickness with X-ray lasers

Researchers used an X-ray free-electron laser to determine the structure of trypanosomal Cathepsin B, a promising target for treating sleeping sickness. The study provides detailed insight into how the naturally occurring native inhibitor binds, offering new ideas for designing targeted treatments.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 21, 2012

New calculations solve an old problem with DNA

Scientists at the University of Luxembourg have developed a new calculation technique that accurately predicts the B-Z transition in DNA, which can lead to cancer. The breakthrough enables the prediction of material properties such as melting temperatures and elasticity with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Luxembourg·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateDec 21, 2012

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