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Science News for December 1, 2012


Extended sleep reduces pain sensitivity

A study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that extended sleep time improves daytime alertness and reduces pain sensitivity in mildly sleepy adults. The results show a 25% increase in finger withdrawal latency, indicating reduced pain sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalSLEEP·DateDec 1, 2012
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Lung cancer patients with pockets of resistance prolong disease control by 'weeding the garden'

Researchers have found that targeting resistant lung cancer 'pockets' with focused radiation can prolong disease control in patients who initially respond to crizotinib or erlotinib. This approach showed significant benefits in patients whose cancers progressed in the brain, where the drugs are less effective.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateDec 1, 2012

X-ray analysis deciphers master regulator important for skin cancer

A research team has uncovered the molecular structure of MITF, a master regulator central to melanoma and other diseases. The X-ray analysis revealed unexpected insertions that limit MITF's ability to bind to DNA, providing a rational basis for the development of tailor-made drugs targeting this protein.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 1, 2012

Long-term research reveals how climate change is playing out in real ecosystems

A recent study published in BioScience reveals surprising results on the effects of climate change on ecosystems, highlighting the value of long-term ecological research. The analysis shows how changes in temperature and precipitation affect hydrologic variables, plant and animal community composition, and ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico, Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) Network·JournalBioScience·DateDec 1, 2012