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Science News for April 9, 2013


1-2 punch could be key in treating blindness

Using two therapies together has been shown to effectively restore vision in dogs with inherited blindness. The treatment approach may have implications for human patients as well. Researchers believe that combining gene therapy and selective photoreceptor cell destruction could lead to better therapeutic outcomes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateApr 9, 2013

AACR news: Misregulated genes common to tobacco-related cancers offer potential new prognostic tool

Researchers have identified a set of misregulated genes common to tobacco-related cancers, which are associated with poor patient outcomes in lung and bladder cancers. These genes relate to the regulation of the cell cycle and could serve as a new prognostic tool to predict survival rates for patients with tobacco-related cancers.

Sensational success in patients with major depression

Researchers at Bonn University Hospital have achieved remarkable results using deep brain stimulation to treat treatment-resistant major depression. In six out of seven patients, symptoms improved considerably and rapidly, with significant improvements observed in anxiety, despondence, listlessness, and joylessness.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 9, 2013

A step toward optical transistors?

McGill researchers demonstrate ability to modulate light using laser-pulse inputs to manipulate quantum mechanical state of semiconductor nanocrystals. This breakthrough could lead to the development of optical transistors, which would enable faster and more efficient data processing in telecommunications networks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 9, 2013

Quantifying heterogeneity in breast cancer

A new study by Fox Chase researchers finds that heterogeneity is prevalent even in early-stage ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) breast cancer, making it challenging for pathologists to accurately diagnose and treat the disease. The results suggest that a multiple-target approach may be necessary to effectively combat breast cancer.

Beavers use their noses to assess their foes

A study by Helga Tinnesand and her colleagues found that beavers use anal gland secretions to assess their foes, with older sons detected as a greater threat. This allows established territory owners to accurately gauge the level of response required.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 9, 2013

Blockade of pathogen's metabolism

Researchers at Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland have discovered a new peptide that inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase, preventing DNA-to-RNA transcription. The peptide, P07, shows promise as a potential new antibiotic with a unique mechanism of action that does not lead to cross-resistance.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Infection Research·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateApr 9, 2013

Snowflakes falling on cameras

Researchers developed a high-speed camera system to photograph snowflakes in 3D as they fall, capturing their true complexity and size. The Multi-Angle Snowflake Camera collects vast amounts of data to improve weather forecasting models and simulate precipitation.

Few to no work efficiencies when different providers read different scans on same patient

A new study by the American College of Radiology found that any potential work efficiencies gained when different providers interpret different medical imaging scans on the same patient are minimal and vary by procedure. The study suggests that Medicare's estimates of potential work savings were greatly exaggerated, with a maximum redu...

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateApr 9, 2013

New technology spots drugs' early impact on cancer

Researchers have developed a new preclinical technology that enables quick determination of a treatment's effectiveness against gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) as early as 24 hours after administering the compound. This tool can help identify new drugs or drug combinations and quickly identify the most effective treatments for ...

Dedicated cleaning staff shown to reduce C. difficile contamination in hospital rooms

A study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that a dedicated daily cleaning crew can effectively reduce C. difficile contamination in hospital rooms. The intervention included a standardized disinfection process, which significantly improved disinfection rates compared to traditional cleaning practices.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateApr 9, 2013

High pressure gold nanocrystal structure revealed

Researchers have successfully imaged the changes in morphology of gold nanocrystals under pressures of up to 6.5 gigapascals, solving a long-standing problem in measuring nanomaterial structures. The study shows that the nanocrystals undergo plastic flow, becoming more fluid-like at high pressure, and reveals new insights into the beha...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2013

Iceman Ötzi had bad teeth

Researchers studied the teeth of the Neolithic mummy Ötzi, finding severe oral diseases such as advanced periodontitis and tooth decay. The Iceman's diet, which included starchy foods like bread and cereal porridge, contributed to his dental problems.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalEuropean Journal Of Oral Sciences·DateApr 9, 2013

1 factor that can help determine black men's college success

A study at Ohio State University found that 'grit' is a key factor in predicting college success for black men. Grit refers to the dedication to pursuing and achieving a goal despite obstacles and failures. This factor affects college grades almost as much as high school GPA and ACT scores, highlighting its importance.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of African American Studies·DateApr 9, 2013