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Science News for February 13, 2015


Use of 'digital badges' in schools would motivate students, research shows

A new study by University at Buffalo education professor Sam Abramovich investigates the use of school-based digital badges as a way to motivate students and measure learning. The research finds that successful educational badges must present enjoyment, recognize work beyond typical academic ability, and value for the student.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalInternational Journal of Learning and Media·DateFeb 13, 2015

How iron feels the heat

Scientists have uncovered a key factor driving iron's unique thermal behavior, revealing a synergy between magnetism and atomic vibrations that increases the metal's stability at high temperatures. This breakthrough could lead to more accurate predictions of steel properties and enable the development of new, stronger alloys.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review B·DateFeb 13, 2015

Study: Door-to-door campaign linked hepatitis C patients to care

A new study shows that a door-to-door campaign in a medically underserved area of Philadelphia was able to help vulnerable patients overcome hurdles and access specialized treatment for hepatitis C. The effort involved a comprehensive approach to nonclinical testing, immediate access to confirmatory testing, and patient navigation to e...

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 13, 2015

NUS pioneers novel strategy to prevent progression of inflammation-associated cancers

A team of NUS researchers developed a novel strategy to prevent inflammation-associated cancers by targeting the interaction between FAT10 and MAD2. This approach facilitates the development of cancer drugs with fewer side effects, as it targets specific pathological functions without affecting other physiological functions.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2015

BGRF announces in silico method to predict effectiveness of cognitive enhancers

The Biogerontology Research Foundation has developed an in silico method to predict the effectiveness of cognitive enhancers. The research uses gene expression data to evaluate activated or suppressed signalling pathways in the brain. This approach can help identify potential geroprotectors that also enhance cognitive function.

SourceBiogerontology Research Foundation·JournalFrontiers in Systems Neuroscience·DateFeb 13, 2015

Would you take dieting advice from a friend?

Researcher Lora Cavuoto's study found that people who achieve weight loss or wellness success are more likely to influence their friends, while charismatic but unsuccessful individuals have a lower impact. This approach is taking precedence in new diet and exercise programs.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Healthcare Engineering·DateFeb 13, 2015