science newsletter: Science News SciGuru.com

Δευτέρα 18 Φεβρουαρίου 2013

Science News SciGuru.com

A new form of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to study nanostructures
Following the footprints of positive selection
Pathway controlling cell growth revealed
Synthetic molecule first electricity-making catalyst to use iron to split hydrogen gas
‘Snooze button’ on biological clocks improves cell adaptability
A neural basis for benefits of meditation
Scientists Find Promising New Approach to Preventing Progression of Breast Cancer

A new form of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to study nanostructures

Posted: 18 Feb 2013 06:53 AM PST

Making new insights into the nanoworld a reality! An international team working with scientists from the University of Stuttgart and the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research in Stuttgart have put the conditions in place to examine proteins and other nanostructures with the help of nuclear spin spectroscopy. This is a method that reveals the structure of a material, however, on nanoscopic samples it previously involved enormous technical complexity.

Following the footprints of positive selection

Posted: 18 Feb 2013 06:41 AM PST

For decades, the human genome could only tell us what we already suspected about the evolution of certain traits. Researchers were able to trace the genetic origin stories of lactose tolerance (as opposed to lactose intolerance), malaria resistance, and more only after observing these successful traits in specific populations.

Pathway controlling cell growth revealed

Posted: 18 Feb 2013 04:52 AM PST

A Melbourne-based research team has discovered a genetic defect that can halt cell growth and force cells into a death-evading survival state.

The finding has revealed an important mechanism controlling the growth of rapidly-dividing cells that may ultimately lead to the development of new treatments for diseases including cancer.

Synthetic molecule first electricity-making catalyst to use iron to split hydrogen gas

Posted: 18 Feb 2013 04:44 AM PST

To make fuel cells more economical, engineers want a fast and efficient iron-based molecule that splits hydrogen gas to make electricity. Online Feb. 17 at Nature Chemistry, researchers report such a catalyst. It is the first iron-based catalyst that converts hydrogen directly to electricity. The result moves chemists and engineers one step closer to widely affordable fuel cells.

‘Snooze button’ on biological clocks improves cell adaptability

Posted: 18 Feb 2013 04:37 AM PST

The circadian clocks that control and influence dozens of basic biological processes have an unexpected “snooze button” that helps cells adapt to changes in their environment.

A study by Vanderbilt University researchers published online Feb. 17 by the journal Nature provides compelling new evidence that at least some species can alter the way that their biological clocks function by using different “synonyms” that exist in the genetic code.

A neural basis for benefits of meditation

Posted: 17 Feb 2013 08:35 AM PST

Why does training in mindfulness meditation help patients manage chronic pain and depression? In a newly published neurophysiological review, Brown University scientists propose that mindfulness practitioners gain enhanced control over sensory cortical alpha rhythms that help regulate how the brain processes and filters sensations, including pain, and memories such as depressive cognitions.

Scientists Find Promising New Approach to Preventing Progression of Breast Cancer

Posted: 17 Feb 2013 08:08 AM PST

Doctors currently struggle to determine whether a breast tumor is likely to shift into an aggressive, life-threatening mode—an issue with profound implications for treatment. Now a group from The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) has identified a mechanism through which mitochondria, the powerhouses of a cell, control tumor aggressiveness. Based on their findings, the team developed a simple treatment that inhibits cancer progression and prolongs life when tested in mice.