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Science News for May 26, 2014


Melatonin makes old bones stronger

Researchers at McGill University discovered that melatonin supplements increase bone volume and density in elderly rats, making them stronger. This finding suggests that melatonin may be a useful tool in combating osteoporosis.

SourceMcGill University·JournalRejuvenation Research·DateMay 26, 2014

Molecules do the triple twist

A team of scientists has successfully created a triple twisted Möbius annulene, a complex molecule with three twists but only one surface. This achievement demonstrates their expertise in manipulating molecular structures and has significant potential for future applications in molecular electronics and optoelectronics.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMay 26, 2014

Insights into genetics of cleft lip

Researchers have identified a specific DNA stretch controlling genes that determine face structure and those producing building materials. The region's regulatory elements affect gene Myc activity, leading to facial changes and increased susceptibility to environmental factors like smoking during pregnancy.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 26, 2014

New perspectives to the design of molecular cages

Researchers from the University of Jyväskylä report a new method for building molecular cages that exploits intermolecular steric effects to control self-assembly. This allows for the creation of cages with vacant metal binding sites, enabling modifications to their properties.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalChemical Communications·DateMay 26, 2014

The perception of discrimination is greater among younger immigrants

A study by the University of the Basque Country reveals that younger immigrant youth perceive discrimination as a major issue, while those from Latin America have a more optimistic view. The research highlights the importance of actively coping with discrimination in improving wellbeing and adaptation to the new social context.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalInternational Journal of Intercultural Relations·DateMay 26, 2014

A mechanism of how biodiversity arises

A recent study by evolutionary biologists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst shows that a mutation in a single gene during development can lead to different consequences, including changes in jaw shape and feeding strategies. This genetic variation predicts differences in feeding mechanics and alters skull structure.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 2014

Ebola vaccine success highlights dilemma of testing on captive chimps to save wild apes

A new Ebola vaccine has been successfully tested on captive chimpanzees, producing a robust immune response and showing safety. The researchers argue that this could be a turning point in saving endangered ape species from extinction, but the need for captive chimps testing raises ethical concerns about animal welfare.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 26, 2014

Outgrowing emotional egocentricity

Max Planck researchers identify supramarginal gyrus region crucial for children's ability to assess others' emotions, improving with age. The study reveals that adults can easily overcome egocentrism, whereas children between 6-13 tend to project their own emotions onto others.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateMay 26, 2014

Intermediaries increase corruption

A recent study published in Experimental Economics found that intermediaries significantly increase corruption, regardless of their level of involvement. The researchers designed a laboratory experiment to test the impact of intermediaries on corrupt behavior, and their results confirm this suspicion.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalExperimental Economics·DateMay 26, 2014

Fighting cancer with dietary changes

Researchers found that calorie restriction decreased microRNA production, which promotes the extracellular matrix and prevents cancer cells from spreading. The study aims to test whether calorie restriction can improve outcomes for women with breast cancer in a clinical trial.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateMay 26, 2014