With random lasers, Yale researchers fight random noise, improve imaging

Using "random lasers" as a source of illumination in medical imaging equipment could improve both processing time and the clarity of the final images, according to new research by Yale University scientists. 30 Apr 2012 11:01

SA's first oestrogen metabolism gene test available

Local molecular biotechnology firm, DNAlysis Biotechnology announced the availability of South Africa's first oestrogen metabolism gene test last week, 18 April 2012. The test will identify 12 gene variations involved in oestrogen metabolism and detoxification in women, a significant contribution in the prevention of breast cancer. 23 Apr 2012 17:43

Improved MRI system for LCM

The Life Little Company of Mary Hospital (LCM) in Groenkloof, Pretoria, recently installed a Philips Ingenia 3.0 Tesla MRI system. Delivering crystal clear images, rapid results and patient comfort, the new MRI system combines advanced technology and ambient lighting effects for a much improved patient experience. 4 Apr 2012 08:25

Yale Nobel laureate creates compound that halts growth of malaria parasite

[Bill Hathaway] A drug candidate that has shown promise for neutralizing dangerous bacteria also prevents growth of the parasite that causes malaria, new research by a Yale University team headed by Nobel laureate Sidney Altman shows. 3 Apr 2012 08:42

Scientists develop first snap shot of tiny brain tumours

Cancer Research UK scientists have developed a technique they believe could be used to detect tiny secondary tumours in the brain, a process that is currently impossible, according to research published in PNAS, yesterday, 26 March 2012. 27 Mar 2012 15:09

Yale research offers new way to see inside solids

[Eric Gershon] Researchers at Yale University have developed a new way of seeing inside solid objects, including animal bones and tissues, potentially opening a vast array of dense materials to a new type of detailed internal inspection. 20 Mar 2012 14:20

Program allows instant assessment of heart murmurs

Stellenbosch-based Diacoustic Medical Devices has developed SensiCardiac, an auscultation-based computer-aided software program aimed to help doctors instantly establish whether a child's heart murmur is pathological or physiological, without having to refer the patient to a paediatric cardiologist. 6 Mar 2012 12:38

iPads show the way forward for medical imaging

Tablet computers such as the iPad are becoming more and more popular, but new research from the University of Sydney means they could soon be used in hospitals as a tool for doctors to view medical imaging. 21 Feb 2012 14:12

Yale study: how mitochondrial DNA defects cause inherited deafness

[Helen Dodson] Yale scientists have discovered the molecular pathway by which maternally inherited deafness appears to occur: Mitochondrial DNA mutations trigger a signaling cascade, resulting in programmed cell death. The study is in the 17 February issue of Cell. 20 Feb 2012 17:37

Understanding how early breast tumors become deadly

OHIO, USA: Researchers have discovered a restricted pattern of molecules that differentiate early-stage breast tumors from invasive, life-threatening cancer. They also found a similar molecular signature that correlated with the aggressiveness of invasive tumors, and with the time to metastasis and overall survival. 14 Feb 2012 14:35

Shining a new light on ageing

You probably know by now how bad sunlight is for your skin. Too much of it over time makes you look older than your years. It causes photo-ageing - the medical term for damage to the skin from too much exposure to the sun's ultra violet (UV) radiation rays. 10 Feb 2012 15:24

Freezing technique exposes molecule-to-molecule attachments

[Eric Gershon] Researchers at Yale University have developed a new way of exposing the atomic attachments that keep complex molecules in precise alignment. The new method could provide insight into the mechanics of a variety of molecular structures, potentially aiding efforts to manipulate them for drug discovery and other purposes. 2 Feb 2012 15:32

Scientists map one of life's molecular mysteries

All living organisms are made up of cells, behind these intricate life forms lie complex cellular processes that allow our bodies to function. Researchers working on protein secretion - a fundamental process in biology - have revealed how protein channels in the membrane are activated by special signals contained in proteins destined for secretion. The results help explain the underlying mechanism responsible for the release of proteins such as hormones and antibodies into the blood stream. 31 Jan 2012 14:00

Scientists reveal first 3D image of cancer prevention molecule

Cancer Research UK scientists have created the first 3D structure of a key protein that protects against the development of cancer, according to research published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology on Sunday, 22 January. 24 Jan 2012 11:05