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Science News Archive February 2014 - Page 9


Page 9 of 30

Dismantling pancreas cancer's armor

Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have found that removing immune suppressor cells from pancreas tumors triggers a spontaneous anti-tumor immune response, providing hope for future immunotherapy strategies. The study showed that these cells, called granulocyte-myeloid-derived suppressor cells (Gr-MDSCs), actively work ag...

Cell behavior in low oxygen conditions mapped

A new study at the University of Liverpool explains how cells adapt to low oxygen environments, potentially controlling cell survival signals. By monitoring protein levels and gene expression, researchers discovered optimal conditions for keeping cells alive, which could lead to cancer treatment advancements.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 20, 2014

Multilevel approach to coping with stigmas identified

Researchers found that a two-way approach can be more effective in reducing health disparities due to social stigma. Interventions at the individual level, such as educational approaches, can be combined with structural changes, like legislative reforms, to achieve better outcomes.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2014

With friends like these, who needs democracy?

A new study by Michigan State University's Michael Colaresi suggests that foreign aid from rival nations can create mistrust among citizens and hinder the establishment of democratic governments after civil wars. Only one country, Algeria, bucked this trend by becoming more democratic in the following decade.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Peace Research·DateFeb 20, 2014

Extreme weather decides distribution of insects

Researchers found that insect distribution is primarily defined by their tolerance to extreme temperatures, not average temperature changes. This knowledge helped model the expected shift in distributions due to climate change, with some species predicted to disappear entirely in a few decades.

SourceAarhus University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateFeb 20, 2014

Rural primary care physicians are committed to professionalism, quality improvement

A new study finds that rural primary care physicians are committed to professionalism and quality improvement, contrary to common perceptions. They were more likely to participate in quality improvement activities, discuss costs of care with patients, and report having added Medicaid or uninsured patients to their patient panels.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·DateFeb 20, 2014

Greece's deepening health crisis

A new study reveals that Greece's health system is deteriorating due to severe austerity measures, leading to a rise in infectious diseases and mental health issues. The country has experienced significant cuts to its healthcare budget, resulting in reduced access to medical care for many patients.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 20, 2014

Better broccoli, enhanced anti-cancer benefits with longer shelf life

Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered a method to increase broccoli's anti-cancer properties while prolonging its shelf life. The combined application of methyl jasmonate and 1-methylcyclopropene increased the presence of cancer-fighting agents in broccoli, while reducing ethylene levels that cause decay.

Study examines correctional officer stress

A new study by Sam Houston State University found that conflicts between work and family life were the most significant issues affecting correctional officers' stress and job satisfaction. The study identified demands from work, incompatibility between work and home roles, and family circumstances as major contributors to job stress.

Turning back the clock on aging muscles?

Researchers have discovered a method for restoring strength to damaged skeletal muscles in the elderly using stem cell therapy. The treatment involves treating cells outside the body with a drug that prevents protein modification and culturing them on soft biomaterials, allowing aged cells to grow and self-renew.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2014

Biopsies before transplantation do not determine success of donated kidneys

Studies found that biopsied kidney injuries were modestly associated with delay in organ function, but only for donor kidneys already at high risk. However, there was a large degree of overlap between discarded and transplanted kidneys, suggesting low-quality biopsies may be used to make acceptance decisions.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 20, 2014

Elsevier announces the launch of a new journal: TrEAC

Elsevier has launched a new journal, TrEAC, which will publish concise and critical overviews of the rapid changes and development in environmental analytical chemistry. The journal aims to enhance understanding of the environment through analysis and detection of new contaminants.

SourceElsevier·JournalTrends in Environmental Analytical Chemistry·DateFeb 20, 2014

Stress hormone linked to frailty

A new study found that individuals with frailty have lower morning cortisol levels and higher evening levels, associated with reduced grip strength and walking speed. This study suggests a link between disrupted cortisol regulation and loss of muscle mass and strength in frail adults.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 20, 2014

MD Anderson researcher uncovers some of the ancient mysteries of leprosy

A new hypothesis suggests that leprosy has existed for millions of years, with roots dating back to around 10 million years ago. The disease is believed to have evolved from a common ancestor of two known leprosy bacteria, which underwent reductive evolution resulting in a lean genome and loss of free-living ability.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 20, 2014