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Science News Archive February 2015 - Page 17


Page 17 of 31

Light in the Moebius strip

Scientists generate Moebius strip from laser light to process materials and manipulate microparticles, opening up new possibilities for nanotechnology. The optical tool could also be used to guide nanoparticles on complex paths using optical tweezers.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateFeb 12, 2015

JMD publishes article on laboratory perspective of incidental findings reporting

The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics published a Special Article on laboratory perspective of incidental findings reporting, highlighting the need for increased understanding and transparency of complex genomic testing. The AMP Incidental Findings Working Group recommends laboratories establish clear policies for delivering ancillary i...

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateFeb 12, 2015

Ebola has lessons for local health departments' role in health crises

A recent article highlights the importance of local health departments' roles in responding to global health security threats posed by infectious diseases. Key findings include the need for dedicated staff to interpret federal guidance, form partnerships with healthcare coalitions, and communicate accurate risk information. The Ebola e...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateFeb 12, 2015

Under pressure

Researchers found that receiving cells respond to pressure on their membranes by stiffening their skeletons to prevent movement away from the attacking cell. This process allows for close proximity of cell membranes, enabling fusion to occur.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 12, 2015

Remoras don't suck

Researchers studied remoras' ability to attach to surfaces securely yet release easily, finding a complex mechanism involving lamellar spinules and uniquely-structured blood vessels. This discovery could inspire designs for tags or bandages that don't harm hosts.

NIH Ebola study in macaques provides timeframes for post-mortem viral stability

A recent NIH study found that Ebola virus can remain infectious in a body for at least seven days after death, with viral RNA detectable for up to 10 weeks. The research highlights the importance of safe handling practices and suggests oral swabbing as a reliable alternative for obtaining diagnostic samples.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 12, 2015

A*STAR develops systems to identify treatment targets for cancer and rare diseases

Researchers at A*STAR's Genome Institute of Singapore have developed an expert system called OncoIMPACT that combines cancer omics data with machine learning models to predict treatment targets. The system has been applied to over a thousand cancers, including melanomas and ovarian cancers, and shows promise for personalized medicine.

SourceBiomedical Sciences Institutes (BMSI)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateFeb 12, 2015

Harm and response

A comprehensive study reveals that plants respond uniquely to different insects, activating specific genes to defend against attacks. The research shows that plants can distinguish between closely related insect species, leading to targeted defense responses.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateFeb 12, 2015

The company you keep

Researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology report that Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells (NFAT) plays a key role in CD8 T cell exhaustion, leading to impaired immune responses. The study identifies NFAT as a molecular hub that orchestrates T cell activation and exhaustion.

Study: Global rainfall satellites require massive overhaul

A new study by Cornell University warns that the existing system of space-based rainfall observation satellites requires a serious overhaul due to aging technology and lack of international coordination. Replacing just two of the four outdated satellites could help close gaps in data coverage, but broader collaboration is still needed.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 12, 2015

An aggressive form of HIV uncovered in Cuba

Researchers at KU Leuven's Laboratory for Clinical and Epidemiological Virology have identified a recombinant form of HIV that targets the anchor point CXCR4 early after infection, shortening the healthy phase and triggering rapid progression to AIDS. The study found abnormally high doses of the virus and defensive molecule RANTES in i...

SourceKU Leuven·JournalEBioMedicine·DateFeb 12, 2015

Genomic profiling for cancer of unknown primary site

A study published in JAMA Oncology found that at least one clinically relevant genomic alteration was present in most samples tested, suggesting a potential for personalized therapy. The research analyzed 200 cancer of unknown primary site (CUP) samples and identified 169 specimens with potentially targetable genomic alterations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateFeb 12, 2015

How the Eastern tiger swallowtail got 'scary'

The Eastern tiger swallowtail's genome has been sequenced, revealing mutations in proteins responsible for its unique circadian rhythm and stinky substance used to scare off predators. This breakthrough opens the door for more insect genome sequencing projects at an affordable price.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 12, 2015