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Science News Archive January 2019 - Page 12


Page 12 of 37

Important signaling pathway in breast cancer revealed

Researchers at Kanazawa University have discovered a critical signaling pathway that drives the proliferation of cancer stem cells in breast cancer. The pathway, involving Semaphorin 3 and MICAL3 proteins, is targeted by inhibiting these proteins to reduce breast-cancer stem-like cells.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2019

New global task force report questions effectiveness of spinal fusion procedures, provides recommendations

A new report from a global task force of bone health experts suggests that surgical procedures for spinal fractures may not be effective in reducing pain or improving quality of life. The report recommends against the use of vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty, citing a lack of evidence supporting their benefits.

SourceBurness·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJan 24, 2019

Zika vaccines should induce responses by CD4+ T cells

A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that CD4+ T cells are essential for local control of viral infection and can confer protection against lethal doses of the Zika virus. The findings support the development of vaccines targeting this cell type, which may be safe and effective against infection in multiple contexts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJan 24, 2019

Plants can smell, now researchers know how

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered how plants detect odor molecules by binding to transcriptional co-repressors, changing gene expression. This understanding may lead to new ways of influencing plant behavior, such as altering crop quality or deterring pests.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 23, 2019

Can you pick an MMA winner by studying fighters' faces?

Czech researchers used 360-degree headshots to assess fighters' perceived fighting ability. Despite this, ratings were not linked to actual MMA score or physical characteristics. However, heavier fighters with higher anaerobic performance were judged as more successful based on their facial features.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 23, 2019