science newsletter: Science News SciGuru.com

Σάββατο 3 Νοεμβρίου 2012

Science News SciGuru.com

Blood Testing Predicts Level of Enzymes that Facilitate Disease Progression
Tumor-causing cells are squishier
Supercomputers to understand carcinogens
Abstract thinking can make you more politically moderate

Blood Testing Predicts Level of Enzymes that Facilitate Disease Progression

Posted: 02 Nov 2012 12:33 PM PDT

Predicting how atherosclerosis, osteoporosis or cancer will progress or respond to drugs in individual patients is difficult. In a new study, researchers took another step toward that goal by developing a technique able to predict from a blood sample the amount of cathepsins—protein-degrading enzymes known to accelerate these diseases—a specific person would produce.

This patient-specific information may be helpful in developing personalized approaches to treat these tissue-destructive diseases.

Tumor-causing cells are squishier

Posted: 02 Nov 2012 12:29 PM PDT

A new tool developed by scientists at The Methodist Hospital separates tumor-causing cancer cells from more benign cells by subjecting the cells to a microscopic game of Plinko -- except only the squishiest cells make it through.

Supercomputers to understand carcinogens

Posted: 02 Nov 2012 11:13 AM PDT

A person doesn't have to go far to find a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH). These carcinogen precursors are inhaled through automobiles exhaust during the morning commute, are present in a drag of cigarette smoke, and are part of any barbequed meal.

Abstract thinking can make you more politically moderate

Posted: 02 Nov 2012 11:00 AM PDT

Partisans beware! Some of your most cherished political attitudes may be malleable! Researchers report that simply answering three “why” questions on an innocuous topic leads people to be more moderate in their views on an otherwise polarizing political issue.