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Science News Archive November 2016 - Page 2


Page 2 of 38

How did web-based cognitive therapy work for insomnia?

A randomized clinical trial found that web-based cognitive behavior therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) improved sleep outcomes in adults. The fully automated and interactive SHUTi intervention was more effective than access to a patient education website alone, with participants showing significant improvements in sleep duration and quality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 30, 2016

New strategy may drop cancer's guard

Researchers at Rice University have discovered that a diabetes drug can halt the production of glycoproteins that make up the protective mucus lining cells, allowing immune cells to target tumors. The study suggests that reducing mucin levels may be enough to breach the tumor's protective shield and allow for cancer cell destruction.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Cellular Biochemistry·DateNov 30, 2016

Corals much older than previously thought, study finds

Researchers have estimated that elkhorn coral genotypes in Florida and the Caribbean are up to 5,000 years old, making them potentially the longest-lived animals. This study uses a genetic approach to estimate coral ages, which may provide hope for their survival under climate change.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateNov 30, 2016

Overlooked elements of language and literature play a key role

Researchers analyzed word frequencies in six Indo-European languages, finding that punctuation marks play a key role in shaping the distribution of words. The study used over a million words from literary texts and found that including punctuation marks significantly altered the results, revealing a more complex structure.

Throwing new light on printed organic solar cells

Scientists at the University of Surrey achieved record power conversion efficiencies for large area organic solar cells, outperforming traditional inorganic solar cells. The innovative cells can be printed in different colors and shapes, making them ideal for powering devices on-the-go, such as Internet of Things applications.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateNov 30, 2016

Sellers 3.5 times more influential than buyers in driving e-commerce platform growth

A study published in Marketing Science journal reveals that sellers are 3.5 times more impactful than buyers in growing e-commerce platforms like Taobao.com. The findings suggest that the presence of diverse product offerings on the platform is crucial for attracting buyers, while frequent buying activity motivates sellers to join.

The economy of cold soil blues

A new study by University of Minnesota researcher Daniel Kaiser found that in-furrow starter fertilizer application has limited economic benefits for corn farmers in areas with cool spring temperatures. The practice, which aims to boost early-season growth, may not outweigh the costs of the fertilizer itself.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateNov 30, 2016