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Science News Archive February 2016 - Page 3


Page 3 of 39

Immune therapy breaks down wall around pancreatic tumors for chemo to attack

Researchers have discovered a novel role for CD40 antibodies in re-educating macrophages to break down the tumor microenvironment, allowing chemotherapy to target pancreatic cancer more effectively. The optimal timing of delivery is critical, with chemotherapy being most effective when administered five days after CD40 treatment.

Imaging algorithm gathers information about how cells move

Brown University engineers developed a new technique to understand how cells move through complex tissues, building on mean deformation theory. The algorithm analyzed images of human neutrophils moving through collagen matrices, revealing differences in contractility and rotation between healthy and sepsis models.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 29, 2016

New vaccine could save thousands of lives

Researchers at the University of Exeter have created a vaccine that offers high-level protection against melioidosis, a bacterial infection that causes pneumonia and sepsis. The new vaccine, which has been tested on mice, holds promise for preventing a disease that affects thousands in tropical regions and is often misdiagnosed.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalVaccine·DateFeb 29, 2016

Mammalian fertilization, caught on tape

Researchers develop a novel microfluidic device called the 'IVF chip' that enables high-resolution imaging of the initial steps of fertilization. The device allows scientists to observe the fusion of sperm and egg, membrane remodeling, and sperm DNA incorporation into the egg.

Tarantula toxins converted to painkillers

Researchers convert tarantula toxins into painkillers by targeting neural receptors, providing an alternative to current treatments with limited pain relief and side effects. The study reveals the importance of cell membranes in peptide toxin activity and opens opportunities for designing new drugs.

SourceBiophysical Society·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateFeb 28, 2016

Breast reconstruction using abdominal tissue -- Differences in outcome with four different techniques

A new study compared four types of abdominal flaps used in breast reconstruction, revealing that muscle-sparing techniques like DIEP and msf-TRAM reduce hernia risks and improve patient satisfaction. The study found these methods to have lower rates of fat necrosis and abdominal morbidity compared to traditional flaps.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 26, 2016

Determining the structures of nanocrystalline pharmaceuticals by electron diffraction

Researchers have developed a new method to determine the structures of nanocrystalline pharmaceuticals, reducing radiation damage and allowing for study at room temperature. The approach uses low-dose electron diffraction with a high-sensitivity detector, enabling the collection of high-quality data for direct crystallography methods.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section A·DateFeb 26, 2016

Being overweight linked to poorer memory

Researchers found an association between high BMI and poorer performance on a test of episodic memory in young adults. The study suggests that obesity may be linked to changes in brain structure and function, potentially affecting memory and decision-making abilities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalQuarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2016

Building living, breathing supercomputers

A team of researchers led by Prof. Nicolau has created a model bio-supercomputer that processes information quickly and accurately using parallel networks, powered by proteins present in all living cells. The device uses much less energy than traditional electronic supercomputers, making it more sustainable.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2016

Consumers care about carbon footprint

Research shows carbon footprint labels influence consumer choice, with usage-related emissions being most important factor. Consumers value recycling and prefer manufacturers to offset emissions, rather than taking direct action.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Policy and Decision Making·DateFeb 26, 2016

Extreme events in the brain

Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a new model that simulates the behavior of neurons in the brain during extreme events, such as epileptic seizures. The model reveals how small-world networks can exhibit spontaneous changes, shedding light on the conditions under which these events develop.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review X·DateFeb 26, 2016

Non-integrating viral vector delivers chemotherapy-sensitizing gene to pancreatic cancer cells

Researchers develop integrase-defective lentiviral vector to deliver chemotherapy-sensitizing gene to pancreatic tumor cells, reducing risk of insertional mutagenesis. The system enables high efficacy delivery of the gene that encodes for DCK protein to cancer cells, making them more sensitive to chemotherapeutic drug gemcitabine.