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Science News for December 20, 2013


JCI early table of contents for Dec. 20, 2013

Researchers identified a fungal surface protein that promotes host cell invasion in mucormycosis, while others found that melanocytes from light-skinned humans secrete a molecule promoting angiogenesis. These findings could lead to new treatments and biomarkers for diseases associated with increased vascularization.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 20, 2013

Breaking down cancer's defense mechanisms

Researchers develop new treatment for pancreatic cancer by using a drug that breaks down the protective barrier surrounding cancer tumours. The approach enables T cells to get through and kill cancer cells, resulting in almost complete elimination of cancer cells in initial tests.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2013

Elucidating biological cells' transport mechanisms

Researchers have calculated the force of molecular motors acting on organelles in biological cells, finding discrepancies with physical laws due to complex biological processes. The study used non-equilibrium statistical mechanics to analyze the motion of motor proteins in living cells, providing new insights into the transport mechanism.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateDec 20, 2013

Wayne State cholesterol study shows algal extracts may counter effects of high fat diets

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition & Metabolism found that algal extracts from Health Enhancement Products, Inc. improved plasma cholesterol profile despite a hypercholesterolemic state induced by a high fat diet. The extracts increased 'good' cholesterol levels and decreased 'bad' cholesterol concentrations.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of Nutrition and Metabolism·DateDec 20, 2013

Staph stoppers

Researchers at the University of Iowa have developed a new vaccine that targets staph toxins, providing almost complete protection against staph infections. The vaccine was tested in an animal model and found to be effective even against high doses of bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateDec 20, 2013

New mechanism that permits selective capture of microRNAs in nanovesicles that shuttle between cells

A new study describes a mechanism by which microRNAs are encapsulated and exported in nanovesicles, facilitating intercellular communication. The researchers identified EXOmotifs, specific nucleotide sequence patterns, that enable the export of miRNAs from human T lymphocytes.

Sierra Nevada, western North America, and the Andaman Sea focus of new Geosphere articles

Researchers analyzed detrital zircons from passive margin strata in western North America, revealing variations in ages and Hf isotope compositions that provide insights into the provenance of Cordilleran passive margin strata. Strike-slip faulting along the Wassuk Range of the northern Walker Lane, Nevada, was also studied, providing ...

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateDec 20, 2013

Religion is good for business shows Rotman study

A new study from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that businesses with head offices in highly religious communities were less likely to experience stock price crashes due to not disclosing bad financial news. Strong social norms, regardless of whether individuals are religious or not, can help minimize bad ...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateDec 20, 2013

How the cells remove copper

A study published in Nature Structural and Molecular Biology reveals that the protein responsible for copper excretion uses a unique transport mechanism to remove toxic copper from cells. This knowledge has important implications for understanding copper-related diseases, as well as developing new antibiotics targeting harmful bacteria.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateDec 20, 2013

New research provides insight into epilepsy

Scientists have discovered that microRNA-128 plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression in neurons, leading to increased neuron activity and epilepsy. The study used mice experiments to demonstrate the effects of reducing microRNA-128 levels, which can help hamper muscle activation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalScience·DateDec 20, 2013

Ohio State study shows 2 drugs help adolescents with ADHD, aggression

A new Ohio State University study found that a combination of two ADHD medications, along with parent training, significantly reduced aggressive behavior in children. The treatment approach showed promise in addressing physical aggression and disruptive behavior in children aged 6-12 with ADHD.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateDec 20, 2013