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Science News for October 19, 2012


Moffitt researcher says no survival advantage with peripheral blood stem cells versus bone marrow

A two-year clinical trial found no survival difference between patients receiving peripheral blood stem cells and bone marrow stem cells from unrelated donors. However, peripheral blood stem cell transplants were associated with a higher incidence of chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 19, 2012

Cholera discovery could revolutionize antibiotic delivery

Researchers at Simon Fraser University have discovered a Trojan horse-like mechanism that enables antibiotics to deliver directly into a bacterial cell. The method uses pilus filaments to transport antibiotics into bacteria, offering a new approach to treat deadly bacterial infections like cholera and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 19, 2012

Ancient DNA sheds light on Arctic whale mysteries

Scientists have conducted the first range-wide genetic analysis of bowhead whales using ancient DNA samples from archaeological sites and modern populations. The study reveals differences in population diversity between ancient and modern times, suggesting recent disappearance of unique maternal lineages due to habitat loss and whaling.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateOct 19, 2012

Geosphere explores the Sierra Nevada, Colorado River system, Laurentia, and the deep sea

The Geological Society of America's Geosphere journal has added four special issues exploring the Sierra Nevada, Colorado River system, Laurentia, and the deep sea. New research reveals that Basin and Range volcanism was triggered by extensional tectonics, while Cenozoic erosion in southwestern North America was linked to surface uplif...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateOct 19, 2012