Science News for January 28, 2007

100 percent juices found as beneficial to health as fruits and vegetables

A European study reviews various studies on risk reduction attributed to fiber and antioxidants in 100% fruit juices and whole fruits/vegetables. It concludes that pure fruit and vegetable juices are comparable in reducing risk factors for certain diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease.

SourceKellen Communications·JournalInternational Journal of Food Science and Nutrition·DateJan 28, 2007

Voluntary organizations for refugees resist pressure to operate as 'shadow state' agencies

A study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council highlights tensions between voluntary organizations supporting refugees and government funding rules. Voluntary groups resist pressures to deliver government policy, citing conflicts with client interests and potential harm to migrants.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJan 28, 2007

Novel laboratory technique nudges genes into activity

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a novel method to activate specific genes using RNA strands, which can help alleviate disease conditions. By introducing tailor-made RNA strands into cells, the researchers can nudging genes into activity, potentially treating diseases such as cancer.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 28, 2007