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Science News for December 9, 2012


New stem cell research, transplant strategies show promise to improve outcomes, reduce complications

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in optimizing stem cells and transplant approaches to treat patients with blood disorders. A new study has shown that the addition of vorinostat to standard therapy can safely reduce the incidence and severity of graft-versus-host disease, a life-threatening complication associated with h...

What it is to be a queen bee?

A new study by Nayuta Brand and Michel Chapuisat found that queen sweat bees restrict the amount of food provided to their first brood, resulting in smaller female workers. This 'choosing' behavior ensures that daughters become workers rather than queens.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateDec 9, 2012

Bugs without borders

Researchers have identified two strains of Clostridium difficile responsible for the global epidemic, highlighting the ease and rapidity of transmission across continents. The study shows that fluoroquinolone resistance played a key role in the spread of these strains.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 9, 2012