Relaxation helps pack DNA into a virus
Researchers discovered that DNA relaxes to pack into virus heads at speeds determined by physics. The process counteracts the molecule's tendency to repel itself due to its negative charge.
Science News Archive May 2014
Page 7 of 31
From chaos to order: How ants optimize food search
Researchers found that individual ants' experiences contribute to their foraging success and lead to an optimization of the path. The collective behavior of ants forms a highly efficient complex network, applicable not only to animals with homes but also to human behavioral patterns.
Funding for better understanding of cancer-causing cell defect
A research team led by Dr. Bing Hu aims to understand a cell defect that contributes to diseases like cancer and develop effective drug therapies.
Immunologists discover immune system precursor cells that fight infection
A team of scientists has identified a previously unknown form of lymphocyte that protects against intracellular infection, providing important insights into the human immune system. The discovery of these 'precursor cells' could lead to the development of new vaccination strategies to prevent intracellular infections.
Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for May 27, 2014
The USPSTF recommends screening for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in nonpregnant high-risk adolescents and adults, as well as postnatal immunoprophylaxis to prevent maternal transmission. Studies have shown that these interventions can reduce mortality and hospital readmissions related to heart failure.
Sound and vision: Visual cortex processes auditory information too
Researchers found that the visual cortex uses auditory input to predict incoming information, enhancing its ability to focus on surprising events. This discovery could provide insights into mental health conditions such as schizophrenia or autism.
Team validates potentially powerful new way to treat HER2-positive breast cancer
A team at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has validated a potentially powerful new approach to treating HER2-positive breast cancer by inhibiting the protein PTP1B. The discovery may lead to improved treatments for the disease, which affects one in four patients and is often resistant to existing therapies.
Researchers map the epic evolution of a 'ring species'
Researchers mapped the epic evolution of a 'ring species' using genomic analysis, revealing complex divergence and hybridization. The Greenish Warbler's range expansion involved periods of geographic separation and interbreeding.
Gene mutation found for aggressive form of pancreatic cancer
Researchers have discovered a unique molecular signature for adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC), a rare and virulent form of pancreatic cancer. The identification of somatic mutations in the UPF1 gene may lead to the development of novel diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies, offering new hope for patients with ASC.
Study identifies how signals trigger cancer cells to spread
A new fluorescent protein biosensor reveals the activation of Rac1 inside cancer cells during invadopodia formation, showing its role in controlling the invasion and spread of cancer cells. The study provides insights into the signaling mechanism that regulates cancer cell invasion and offers potential targets for developing treatments.
A new molecule for high-resolution cell imaging
Researchers at EPFL create two powerful probes for the imaging of cytoskeletal proteins with unprecedented resolution. These probes provide a significant improvement over existing techniques, enabling easier and higher quality imaging of cells with minimal toxicity.
DNA nanotechnology places enzyme catalysis within an arm's length
Researchers develop 3-D artificial enzyme cascade using DNA nanotechnology, mimicking a crucial biochemical pathway that could lead to future biomedical and energy applications. The system consists of multiple enzymes attached to a DNA scaffold, with each arm serving as a 'swinging' catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions.
Buried fossil soils found to be awash in carbon
Deeply buried fossil soils in the Great Plains have been found to be rich in carbon, potentially grossly underestimating carbon storage capacity. The study's findings suggest that these ancient soils could contribute significantly to global climate change as they are disturbed.
Mice with 'mohawks' help scientists link autism to 2 biological pathways in brain
Researchers at NYU Langone Health found a link between autism and two biological pathways in mice with Mohawk-like hairstyles. The study suggests that reversing these effects could lead to potential treatments for the disease.
Stanford discovery could pave way to new treatment for rare jaw tumor
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified the genetic mutations underlying ameloblastoma, a rare type of jaw tumor. They found that drugs already approved for other cancers can be effective in treating this disease, and are planning a pilot study to assess their efficacy.
The Lancet Oncology: UN officials warn refugees are struggling to access cancer treatment
A recent study highlights the challenges faced by refugees from Iraq and Syria in accessing affordable cancer treatment, with host countries struggling to find the money and medicine. Innovative financing schemes are needed to improve access to quality care for these patients.
On alert: Stanford study identifies cell-cycle phase that primes stem cells for action
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have identified a new cell-cycle phase in resting stem cells, dubbed an 'alert' state, which enables them to rapidly respond to tissue damage. This systemic response is distinct from fully resting or activated stem cells and has been observed in various types of injuries.
Promising approach to slow brain degeneration in a model of Huntington's disease uncovered
Blocking extrasynaptic NMDA receptors may improve motor learning, coordination and prevent cell death in animal models of Huntington disease. This finding could lead to new treatment avenues for neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and traumatic brain injury.
Advanced light
Researchers at Joint Quantum Institute investigate entangled beams in fast-light materials, where anomalous dispersion causes faster-than-light-like behavior. The findings reveal potential applications in ultrafast data processing and secure communication.
Scientists discover potential new target for cancer immunotherapy
Scientists have discovered a potential new target for cancer immunotherapy, peptide antibodies that deplete immune-suppressing MDSCs without harming other vital cells. The treatment showed promising results in preclinical experiments, shrinking tumors and improving outcomes.
Novel drug target linked to insulin secretion and type 2 diabetes treatment
Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a novel enzyme, ABHD6, that breaks down a fat-like signal involved in insulin release. Inhibiting this enzyme may increase insulin levels in blood and improve sensitivity to insulin, providing a potential new target for type 2 diabetes treatment.
Climate change accelerates hybridization between native and invasive species of trout
The study found that climate change has accelerated the spread of hybridization between native westslope cutthroat trout and introduced rainbow trout in North America. Hybridization has contributed to the decline and extinction of many native fish species, including all subspecies of cutthroat trout.
EuroPCR 2014 session defines future horizons for renal denervation
The SYMPLICITY-HTN-3 clinical trial confirmed the safety of renal denervation, but questions remain about its efficacy in patients with difficult-to-control hypertension. Further research is needed to identify the best patients who will benefit from treatment with the procedure.
Major EPSRC Programme Grant to support new Oxford Centre for Drug Delivery Devices
A new centre, The Oxford Centre for Drug Delivery Devices (OxCD3), will be established to exploit engineering approaches to improve the therapeutic outcomes of drug-based cancer treatments. The centre aims to use stimulus-responsive nanocarriers and medical devices to enhance drug delivery into tumours.
Health-care professionals must be aware of rarer causes of headaches in pregnancy
A new review highlights the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of rare causes of headaches in pregnancy, including conditions like idiopathic intracranial hypertension and cerebral venous thrombosis. These conditions can be fatal if not treated promptly and require prompt medical attention.
A new concept to improve power production performance of wind turbines in a wind farm
A new concept for counter-rotating wind turbines in tandem arrangements has been developed to improve power production performance. Experimental studies have shown that this configuration can increase energy utilization by up to 20%, particularly beneficial for onshore wind farms with smaller spacing between turbines.
Fruit fly research to provide new insight into our body clock and its biological impact
Researchers at the University of Southampton are using fruit flies to study the internal circadian rhythms that control sleep, blood pressure, and metabolic rate. The findings could provide valuable insights into medical conditions and even help understand jet lag and temperature response mechanisms.
Rising star uses paper to tackle food-borne diseases
A University of Alberta researcher has developed a paper-based diagnostic tool to detect deadly food-borne pathogens such as E. coli. The device, slightly larger than a postage stamp, is designed to be extremely portable and self-contained, allowing for daily testing on farms in developing countries.
Slide Fire update May 23, 2014
The Slide Fire has burned 7,500 acres in Oak Creek Canyon, threatening 300 structures, including private homes and a Forest Service lookout tower. Over 840 personnel are fighting the fire, which is 5% contained, with crews conducting burnout operations along the north and east flanks.
Nature inspires drones of the future
Drones have been developed with flight control mechanisms inspired by birds, bats, insects, and snakes to navigate through urban environments. Researchers have made significant advancements in drone technology, enabling them to perform complex tasks such as obstacle avoidance, pick-up and delivery, and landing on tricky surfaces.
Personal judgments are swayed by group opinion, but only for 3 days
Researchers found that people's private opinions are influenced by group norms, but this effect only lasts for three days. The study controlled for methodological issues and suggests a neurological explanation for the short-lived impact of social influence.
SLU virologists harness adenovirus to kill breast cancer cells
Researchers at SLU's Institute for Molecular Virology have discovered a small fragment of adenovirus that can repress HER2 cell growth and kill breast cancer cells. The discovery offers a promising new therapy for the deadly disease, which affects 20-30% of breast cancers.
Rapid evolution aids spread of exotic plant species
Researchers at KU Leuven found that the Pyrenean rocket, a plant from southern Europe, genetically adapted rapidly to its new environment in Belgium, allowing it to spread quickly. This study provides evidence that rapid evolution can aid the spread of non-native plant species.
A new way to make sheets of graphene
Researchers at MIT have developed a method to produce graphene directly on materials like large sheets of glass, enabling scalable manufacturing. This breakthrough could lead to advances in display screens, solar cells, and other electronic devices.
Slowing the insect invasion: Wood packaging sanitation yields US $11.7 billion net benefit
A study by Ecological Society of America finds that excluding invasive pests like the emerald ash borer from imported goods saves US $11.7 billion, outweighing added costs. The treatment reduces wood borer infestation rates by up to 52%, benefiting homeowners and local governments.
Brain imaging reveals clues about chronic fatigue syndrome
A brain imaging study reveals differences in basal ganglia activity and similarity to inflammation-induced fatigue in chronic fatigue syndrome. Reduced basal ganglia activity is associated with the severity of fatigue symptoms.
Straw from oilseed as a new source of biofuels
Researchers at Norwich BioScience Institutes have found ways to improve the efficiency of turning straw into biofuel. By varying pre-treatment stages, they increased cellulose conversion and sugar yield.
Flatland optics with graphene
Researchers successfully trapped and controlled light using graphene-based optical antennas, demonstrating the fundamental principles of conventional optics. The discovery paves the way for the development of compact and faster photonic devices and circuits, which could revolutionize signal processing and computing.
The protective milk shot
Researchers discovered that pigs from infected mothers suffer less from the infection than those from non-infected mothers. The study found that maternal antibodies in the sow's milk protect piglets from infections in the first few weeks of life, leading to fewer cases of severe diarrhoea and faster recovery.
Breakthrough method for making Janus or patchy capsules
Researchers have developed a new method for creating Janus and patchy capsules using electro-coalescence and electro-hydrodynamic flow. These capsules can be used to transport substances and release them in specific environments, making them useful for biomedical applications.
Dr. Dobryakova of Kessler Foundation receives New Jersey Neuropsychological Society award
Dr. Ekaterina Dobryakova, a postdoctoral fellow at Kessler Foundation, received an award to study motivation's influence on cognitive fatigue in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The research aims to determine whether motivation activates brain regions thought to be impaired in cognitive fatigue.
Risk is much more than a game
Researchers develop a new framework for risk assessment that incorporates sociological perspective and human risk perception, leading to more effective mitigation plans. The framework helps decision-makers understand public perception of natural hazards, resulting in better policy decisions.
New sensor could light the way forward in low-cost medical imaging
A new multispectral light sensor can detect ultra-violet to near infrared light, enabling non-invasive medical procedures like oxygen level measurement and tumor detection. The sensor's low cost and flexibility make it suitable for various applications, including security cameras and consumer products.
Untangling whole genomes of individual species from a microbial mix
A new approach enables researchers to distinguish between different microbial species in complex communities, allowing for the discovery of previously unknown species and a better understanding of their genomic content. This breakthrough has significant implications for studying the human microbiome and its impact on individual health.
Failed dwarf galaxy survives galactic collision thanks to full dark-matter jacket
Researchers believe a high-velocity hydrogen cloud, known as the Smith Cloud, contains and is wrapped in a substantial halo of dark matter, allowing it to survive a collision with the Milky Way. The discovery could provide insights into the formation of galaxies and the earliest star formation in our galaxy.
New drug for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia passes early test
A phase I study found that alisertib inhibited aurora A kinase, a target for aggressive lymphoma treatment, in about one-third of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The oral drug showed manageable side effects, paving the way for advanced trials.
Lack of plant diversity spurs cankerworm damage in cities
A recent study published in Urban Ecosystems found that a lack of plant diversity is a significant contributor to the widespread defoliation caused by cankerworms in cities. Increasing plant diversity can help limit future damage. Native plants were particularly hard hit, while nonnative species were largely ignored.
NASA sees first tropical depression of Eastern Pacific hurricane season
The National Hurricane Center expects TD1E to strengthen into a tropical storm later today. The depression has maximum sustained winds increasing to 35 mph (55 kph) and is moving west-northwest at 5 mph (7 kph).
Wound-healing role for microRNAs in colon offer new insight to inflammatory bowel diseases
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered a critical role for microRNA cluster miR-143 and miR-145 in regulating wound healing in the intestine, which may lead to potential treatments for chronic digestive diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
An infrared NASA eye sees a weaker System 92B
Tropical System 92B has weakened due to persistent easterly vertical wind shear, according to NASA's infrared data. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center downgraded the potential for significant tropical cyclone development within the next 24 hours to medium.
Social marketing at the movies
Research by Chong Oh found that Twitter activity has a direct positive effect on movie attendance and online word-of-mouth chatter. Engaging with followers on social media increases the likelihood of higher box office performance.
Stanford researchers discover immune system's rules of engagement
Researchers have discovered a common rulebook for the immune system's T cells, enabling faster identification of antigens and potential treatments. This breakthrough could lead to improved understanding of autoimmune diseases like diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Mapping atherosclerotic arteries: Combined approach developed
Researchers develop protocol combining hard X-ray tomography and histology to visualize constricted vessels, enabling simulation of blood flow and targeted drug delivery. The method also characterizes soft tissues in the vicinity of calcified arteries with high precision.
Poor diet before pregnancy is linked with preterm birth
A study by the University of Adelaide found that women who eat a poor diet before becoming pregnant are around 50% more likely to have a preterm birth than those on a healthy diet. Women who consistently ate high protein and fruit prior to conception were less likely to have a preterm birth.
Dawn breaks on Tropical Storm Amanda in Eastern Pacific
Amanda strengthened into a tropical storm on May 23 with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The storm is expected to remain in weak steering flow and maintain its current trajectory.
Tiny muscles help bats fine-tune flight, stiffen wing skin
Researchers at Brown University discovered that tiny muscles called plagiopatagiales embedded in a bat's wing membrane can adjust stiffness and curvature during flight, fine-tuning aerodynamic performance. The muscles tense on the downstroke and relax on the upstroke, working in synchrony to stiffen the wing.
Yale Cancer Center's tip sheet for the 50th Annual Meeting of ASCO May 30-June 3, 2014
Researchers at Yale Cancer Center presented findings from the 50th Annual Meeting of ASCO, highlighting the effectiveness of nivolumab and ipilimumab in treating advanced melanoma. Additionally, studies showed that lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and regular exercise can decrease biomarkers related to breast cancer recurrence ...
Gene therapy extends survival in an animal model of spinal muscular atrophy
Researchers successfully delivered a replacement SMN1 gene to animal models of SMA, extending their survival. The study demonstrates that enough copies of the SMN1 gene can be delivered to motor neurons in the spinal cord.
First broadband wireless connection ... to the moon?!
A team of MIT researchers has successfully demonstrated a broadband wireless connection to the moon using a laser-based communication system, transmitting data at a rate of 622 megabits per second. The system, which uses multiple telescopes and amplification techniques to overcome atmospheric challenges, has the potential to enable lar...
Lower mantle chemistry breakthrough
Scientists have discovered a significant difference in lower mantle chemistry, shifting from a single ferromagnesian silicate mineral to two distinct phases, including an iron-rich and hexagonal structure called H-phase. This finding challenges geodynamic models and may lead to new discoveries about the deep Earth.