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Science News Archive April 2012 - Page 18


Page 18 of 29

An Achilles heel of AML

Researchers have discovered that activating mutations in the FLT3 gene play a crucial role in acute myeloid leukemia, making it an attractive target for new treatments. The study identifies drug-resistant mutations in FLT3 and suggests that therapies involving combinations of multiple drugs could suppress these mutated forms.

Urgent research needed to determine most effective follow-up care for lung cancer patients

Researchers analyzed four studies and found that regular follow-up reduces crisis-driven health episodes. While no preferred method was determined, the authors recommend guidelines for initial specialist appointments and protocol-driven follow-up led by a lung cancer clinical nurse specialist.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 15, 2012

Hogg named to National Academy of Engineering

Richard Hogg, a renowned expert in particle technology, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his groundbreaking work on coagulation and flocculation. His research interests span multiple areas of particle technology, including characterization, mixing, and agglomeration processes.

DNA repair pathway score for predicting chemotherapy response in ovarian cancer patients

A DNA repair pathway-focused score has been developed to predict chemotherapy response in ovarian cancer patients. The score is positively correlated with complete response rate, recurrence-free survival, and progression-free survival, and outperforms other clinical factors in predicting overall survival.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 13, 2012

Scientists count penguins from space

A new study using satellite mapping technology reveals there are twice as many emperor penguins in Antarctica than was previously thought. The research provides an important benchmark for monitoring the impact of environmental change on the population of this iconic bird.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 13, 2012

Volcker awarded 2012 Moynihan Prize

The American Academy of Political and Social Science recognized Paul Volcker's career for its use of social research in shaping public policy. Volcker, a former Chairman of the Federal Reserve, advocated for increased banking regulation, leading to the inclusion of the Volcker Rule in Dodd-Frank legislation.

SourceSAGE·DateApr 12, 2012

Discovery of the Musket Ball Cluster

The Musket Ball Cluster is a newly discovered galaxy cluster where so-called normal matter has been wrenched apart from dark matter through a violent collision. The system, observed 700 million years after the collision, provides valuable insight into the evolution of galaxy clusters and their member galaxies.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 12, 2012

Sex, tools and chromosomes

Researchers at UC Davis have discovered a crucial enzyme system that regulates chromosome pairing during meiosis, ensuring precise genome sorting and development of healthy sperm and eggs. The discovery could lead to insights into fertility, miscarriages, cancer, and developmental disorders.

Rapid climate change threatens Asia's Rice Bowl

Climate change is expected to reduce agriculture productivity by up to 50% in Southeast Asia, posing a significant threat to food security. Climate-smart agriculture has become crucial for the region's adaptation strategy, focusing on innovations to adapt agriculture to wild swings in climate extremes.

Parolees behaving badly

Researchers found that drug use and sex with multiple partners were common behaviors among men who had been reincarcerated due to parole violations. The study highlights the need for prevention programs targeting substance abuse and sexual risk behavior among parolees.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Correctional Health Care·DateApr 12, 2012