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Science News Archive December 2015 - Page 23


Page 23 of 32

Cancer study identifies genes that stop onset of leukemia

A recent study by University of Edinburgh researchers has identified two molecules, Hif-1alpha and Hif-2alpha, that work together to prevent the development of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in an aggressive type of blood cancer. The findings suggest that therapies designed to block these molecules may have no impact or worsen the disease.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 7, 2015

Suspect cells not guilty after all in late-stage lupus

Virginia Tech researchers have discovered that plasmacytoid dendritic cells do not contribute to late-stage lupus in mice, contradicting years of previous research. The study's findings suggest that pDCs are only involved in the initiation of lupus, rather than its progression.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateDec 7, 2015

Reform model not yet helping people with mental illness

A recent study found that a reform model aimed at improving coordinated care for individuals with mental health diagnoses has yet to deliver desired results. The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Alternative Quality Contract, which began in 2009, was designed to encourage high-value care and improve quality coordination, but its ...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 7, 2015

Breaking bread with colleagues boosts productivity

A recent study by Cornell University found that firefighter platoons who eat meals together have better group job performance compared to those who dine solo. This phenomenon is attributed to the social bonding and intimacy that comes with sharing meals, which spills over into improved work performance.

SourceCornell University·JournalHuman Performance·DateDec 7, 2015

Invasive ants threaten native Australian butterfly

Research on invasive yellow crazy ants found they are more likely to attack native cruiser butterfly caterpillars than green tree ants. The study suggests a potential eradication program could mitigate ecological damage, but federal support is uncertain without state and local backing.

SourceWiley·JournalBiotropica·DateDec 7, 2015

New massive dataset of bacterial proteins

Scientists from Switzerland and the Netherlands have identified over 2,300 bacterial proteins in 22 different growth conditions, representing half of the bacterial genes. The dataset provides insight into protein function, expression levels, and post-translational adaptations.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 7, 2015

Acetaminophen provides no benefits against the flu

A new randomized clinical trial found that acetaminophen does not provide benefits in fighting the flu or reducing symptoms. The trial involved adults with confirmed influenza infections, who were treated with paracetamol or placebo for five days.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateDec 7, 2015

Greenland glaciers retreating at record pace

A new study shows that Greenland's glaciers are retreating twice as fast as in the past 9,500 years, highlighting their acute temperature sensitivity. The sediment cores from a glacier-fed lake provide the first continuous observation of glacier change in southeastern Greenland.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalClimate of the Past·DateDec 7, 2015

Reducing pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the big toe

A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that both prefabricated foot orthoses and rocker-sole shoes alleviate big toe joint pain, with orthoses potentially being the better option due to reduced discomfort and impaired balance. Additionally, these interventions also affect peak pressure under other toes and midfoot.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateDec 7, 2015

Screenbased activities can't replace personal interactions

A new article published in Acta Paediatrica stresses the importance of direct interactions with family members for infants' cognitive and language development. The research suggests that screen-based activities like iPads or DVDs may actually hinder language skills, leading to potential delays.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateDec 7, 2015

What makes Tom Hanks look like Tom Hanks?

University of Washington researchers have developed a technology to capture the 'persona' of a well-photographed person like Tom Hanks from vast numbers of Internet images. The digital model can be animated to deliver speeches that the real actor never performed, and even transfer expressions and mannerisms onto another person's face.

Most men with erectile dysfunction are satisfied with penile prostheses

A study of 47 men with erectile dysfunction found that 79% were satisfied with the outcome of penile prosthesis surgery. The benefits included improved sexual function, enhanced male identity, and relationship improvements. Most men reported positive emotions, self-esteem, confidence, and increased desire after receiving the implant.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateDec 7, 2015