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Science News Archive March 2012 - Page 22


Page 22 of 32

Touch of gold improves nanoparticle fuel-cell reactions

Researchers at Brown University created a triple-headed metallic nanoparticle that generates higher current per unit of mass than any other nanoparticle catalyst tested, with good durability as well as good activity. The FePtAu nanoparticle removes carbon monoxide from the reaction, improving performance and stability.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 12, 2012

Study reports steady increases in long-term survival among children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, reflecting impact of treatment advances

The study reported a significant increase in five-year and 10-year survival rates for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, rising to 90.4% and 83.9%, respectively. Advances in treatment, including new drugs and supportive care, contributed to the improved outcomes.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 12, 2012

The shape of things to come

Researchers at McGill University have developed a mathematical method to predict the movement of oil and ash following environmental disasters. The tool uses Lagrangian Coherent Structures (LCSs) to forecast dramatic changes in pollution patterns, allowing for more informed decision-making about controlling spills.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 12, 2012

JCI early table of contents for March 12, 2012

A study found that bone marrow-derived progenitor cells promote liver regeneration in rats, improving our understanding of how liver tissue can regenerate following damage. Researchers also discovered a new determinant of human breast cancer metastasis, highlighting the potential for new therapeutics targeting this pathway.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 12, 2012

Trudeau Institute announces latest discovery

A study by the Trudeau Institute has identified key mechanisms in controlling gamma-herpesvirus infections and their implications for treating and preventing cancer. Researchers found that immune responses differ between initial active phase and long-term latent infection phases.

SourceTrudeau Institute·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMar 12, 2012

Prescribing opioids for pain after short-stay surgery appears associated with long-term use

A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that prescribing opioids for pain after short-stay surgery is associated with long-term analgesic use. Researchers analyzed population-based data and found that patients who received opioid prescriptions within seven days of surgery were more likely to become long-term opioid users.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMar 12, 2012

New study examines how medical symptoms presented online makes a difference in health-care choices

A new study reveals that identifying symptoms in 'streaks' prompts people to perceive higher disease risk than uninterrupted series. Researchers found that alternating common and specific symptoms or longer lists can mitigate this effect, highlighting the importance of online presentation formats on medical decision-making.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 12, 2012

Lifestyle changes for obese patients linked to modest weight loss

Researchers at WashU Medicine found that lifestyle interventions can slow weight gain and improve blood pressure in high-risk, low-income patients. Despite modest six-month weight losses, participants who received lifestyle intervention maintenance over two years experienced significant improvements in blood pressure control.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMar 12, 2012

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement threatens public health

The draft TPPA threatens progressive public health policies by shifting the balance of power in favour of transnational corporate interests. The agreement aims to set a 'gold standard' for removing barriers to the global alcohol and tobacco industries, posing minimal impediments to global strategies.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateMar 12, 2012

Potential role of parents' work exposures in autism risk examined

A pilot study found associations between parental exposure to certain solvents and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in their children. The researchers also observed higher levels of asphalt and solvent exposures among parents of children with ASD compared to those without the condition.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMar 12, 2012

US citizenship may be determined at random

A Michigan State University researcher found that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) test is not reliable in measuring civics knowledge. The test questions are randomly selected from a pool of 100, but no data has been released on their reliability or validity.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalLanguage Assessment Quarterly·DateMar 11, 2012

World breakthrough on salt-tolerant wheat

A team of Australian scientists has bred salt tolerance into a variety of durum wheat, showing improved grain yield by 25% on salty soils. The research uses non-GM crop breeding techniques and introduces a salt-tolerant gene that works by excluding sodium from the leaves.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 11, 2012