Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2012 - Page 17


Page 17 of 30

Fragmented sleep, fragmented mind: A new theory of sleep disruption and dissociation

A new theory suggests that sleep problems may contribute to dissociation and dissociative disorders. Research finds that sleep disturbances can impair memory and increase suggestibility, potentially increasing the impact of leading interventions. Therapists should adopt a more nuanced approach to treat patients with dissociative symptoms.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateFeb 14, 2012

Let's stretch...

Scientists at EMBL Hamburg have discovered the myomesin protein can stretch up to two-and-a-half times its length, unfolding in a previously unknown way. The study reveals the protein's superhelical architecture and unusual elastic properties, shedding new light on muscle contraction mechanisms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 14, 2012

Diagnostics for viruses a step closer to reality

Scientists at the University of Leeds create a biosensor technology that can detect Adenovirus viruses, identify individual strains, and count virus particles. This breakthrough could lead to faster, simpler, and less costly testing for viruses, ultimately benefiting patients.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateFeb 14, 2012

Study shows cognitive behavioral therapy is a safe and effective treatment for women having hot flushes and night sweats following breast cancer treatment

A new study published in The Lancet Oncology shows that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) significantly reduces hot flushes and night sweats in women after breast cancer treatment. CBT improves symptoms by 46-52% compared to usual care, with sustained benefits at 26 weeks.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateFeb 14, 2012

Weight loss can be contagious, study suggests

Researchers found that teammates and social influence play a significant role in weight loss, particularly in team-based weight loss competitions. Participants who said their teammates played a large role in their weight loss actually lost the most weight. Individual characteristics such as obesity status also affected weight outcomes.

SourceLifespan·JournalObesity·DateFeb 14, 2012

What shields gay youth from suicide

Adolescents who feel supported by their families and have caring friends are less likely to consider ending their lives. Conversely, those who experience victimization due to being gay are at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm behaviors.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateFeb 14, 2012

Treating acute sinusitis with antibiotic does not appear helpful

A study published in JAMA found that treatment with amoxicillin for acute uncomplicated rhinosinusitis did not result in a significant difference in symptoms compared to placebo. Patients who received antibiotics reported similar improvements in quality of life and symptom relief, contradicting the common practice of prescribing antibi...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 14, 2012

UBC researchers illuminate link between sodium, calcium and heartbeat using Canadian Light Source

Researchers used the Canadian Light Source to study the sodium channel in heart cells, revealing a key role for calmodulin and calcium ions in regulating heartbeat. The findings shed light on two potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia conditions, Brugada Syndrome and Long Q-T type 3.

SourceCanadian Light Source, Inc.·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2012

JCI online early table of contents: Feb. 13, 2012

Researchers have discovered a new way to enhance trastuzumab treatment in HER2-positive breast cancer patients by stimulating natural killer cells. Additionally, the activation of FoxO1 has been linked to the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy, offering a promising therapeutic target. Leptin's direct action on POMC neurons may also...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 13, 2012

First prospective analysis links breast and pancreatic cancer risk with lynch syndrome

A prospective study links Lynch syndrome with significantly increased risks of breast and pancreatic cancers, while relatives without genetic mutations have no increased risk. The study provides clearer estimates of cancer risks associated with Lynch syndrome and may inform screening and early detection strategies.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 13, 2012

2 studies recognized for improving health policymaking

Research studies evaluated the impact of Massachusetts health reform on insurance coverage, access to care, and affordability, providing insights into system-wide changes. Another study identified the benefits and risks of relationships between physicians/scientists and industry, influencing policies and practices nationwide.