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Science News Archive December 2007 - Page 10


Page 10 of 16

Immigrant patients less likely to report family history of cancer

A new study found that immigrant patients in the US are less likely to report a family history of cancer, which may impact access to cancer prevention and screening services. The study's findings suggest that immigrants' cultural norms and communication barriers may inhibit reporting of family health histories.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateDec 10, 2007

Researchers led by Penn vet uncover the delicate protein balance behind the immune system response

A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has identified the pathways that lead to the production of Interleukin 10 (IL-10), a major anti-inflammatory factor. Modulating messenger molecules like IL-27 and IL-6 could increase IL-10 concentrations, tempering overactive immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Immunology·DateDec 10, 2007

To catch a panda

A MSU Ph.D. candidate is tracking up to four wild pandas in the Sichuan Province of China using advanced global positioning systems to map their habitat preferences, providing crucial data for conservation efforts.

Cancer risks of eating red and processed meat

A new study published in PLoS Medicine found that consuming high amounts of red and processed meats increases the risk of developing bowel and lung cancer. The research, conducted by Amanda Cross and colleagues, analyzed data from a large US diet and health study involving nearly half a million men and women aged 50-71.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 10, 2007

Employees with workplace flexibility have healthier lifestyle habits

A study by Joseph G. Grzywacz found that employees who perceive flexibility in their work lives have healthier lifestyles and are more likely to start positive behaviors. The study analyzed data from a large multinational pharmaceutical company, which recognized its commitment to flexibility as a family-friendly employer.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateDec 10, 2007

Substance abuse in Somali combatants; and more

A study in PLOS Medicine found that Somali combatants' excessive use of khat, a stimulant with amphetamine-like effects, is prevalent across southern and central Somalia. The study also revealed high levels of cannabis and other drug use among combatants, posing significant challenges for post-conflict reintegration programs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 10, 2007

Scientists develop new measure of 'socioclimactic' risk

A new analysis provides quantitative information on socioclimatic risk for each nation, integrating global climate models and socioeconomic indicators of poverty, wealth, and population. Countries face high exposure in at least one category, with major greenhouse gas-emitting nations like China, India, and the US facing substantial exp...

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2007

Psychiatrists: Least religious but most interested in patients' religion

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that psychiatrists are less religious than other physicians but more comfortable addressing patients' spiritual concerns. Psychiatrists are twice as likely to discuss spiritual issues with patients and more likely to encourage patients in their own religious ideas.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 10, 2007

Genome study places modern humans in the evolutionary fast lane

A recent genome study found that positive selection has occurred at a rate roughly 100 times higher in the past 5,000 years compared to other periods of human evolution. The study, led by University of Wisconsin-Madison anthropologist John Hawks, identified 1,800 genes with recent genetic changes, driven by major cultural shifts such a...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 10, 2007

Dasatinib, Nilotinib show strong early results as frontline therapy for chronic myelogenous leukemia

Two drugs, dasatinib and nilotinib, are showing promising results as frontline therapy for newly diagnosed CML patients with high complete cytogenetic response rates of approximately 90% at 6 months. The treatments target a greater variety of genetic variations than imatinib, which has increased the 5-year survival rate for CML patient...