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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 476


Page 476 of 512

Families give high marks to parenting supports 'for refugees, by refugees,' study finds

A new intervention program developed by Boston College researchers in partnership with Bhutanese and Somali communities reports high rates of satisfaction and engagement from refugee families. The study found improved child mental health and family functioning outcomes, including reduced traumatic stress reactions and depression symptoms.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 30, 2020

Cooperation after eye contact: Gender matters

The study, conducted at FiraTàrrega market in Tàrrega, Spain, found that women are more likely to cooperate and have a better understanding of their partner's intentions. Men, on the other hand, tend to be more impulsive and less cooperative when interacting with someone of the same gender.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 30, 2020

Cells' springy coils pump bursts of RNA

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theoretical model explaining how RNA polymerase enzymes trigger bursts of RNA production in cells. The model suggests that DNA supercoils, like springs, are involved in the process, with RNA polymerases compressing and releasing tension to regulate protein production.

SourceRice University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJan 30, 2020

New injection technique may boost spinal cord injury repair efforts

A new injection technique has been developed to deliver neural precursor cells to spinal cord injuries, reducing further trauma and promoting reparative cell propagation. This method may have utility for multiple neurodegenerative conditions such as spinal traumatic injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateJan 29, 2020

Siri, help me quit -- what does your smart device say when you ask for help with addiction?

A recent study found that leading smart device conversational agents, such as Siri and Alexa, are unable to provide meaningful help for quitting substances like opioids, alcohol, and tobacco. However, researchers suggest that updating these devices to promote resources like helplines could prove highly effective in addressing the natio...

SourceElevated Science Communications·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateJan 29, 2020

Single-cell sequencing of CLL therapy: Shared genetic program, patient-specific execution

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients respond differently to ibrutinib treatment due to individual genetic and epigenetic profiles. The study reveals a shared genetic program in CLL cells responding to ibrutinib, but with patient-specific execution, leading to varying disease progression rates.

On the menu: Study says dining out is a recipe for unhealthy eating for most Americans

A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that most American adults consume meals of poor nutritional quality when dining out, with disparities affecting certain groups. The researchers recommend improving the nutritional quality of restaurant meals and reducing health disparities to promote healthier eating.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJan 29, 2020

Openly acknowledging social inequalities

A multinational study by University of Zurich researchers found that members of disadvantaged groups are less likely to support social change when interacting with privileged groups, but more willing to work in solidarity. The study suggests that actively acknowledging structural inequalities can prevent perpetuation of group disparities.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 29, 2020

Pollination is better in cities than in the countryside

A study by the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research found that flowering plants are better pollinated in urban areas than in rural regions. Bees, particularly bumblebees, played a crucial role in this process. The researchers recommend considering the needs of bees when planning green spaces in both cities and countryside.

Missing link in rare inherited skin disease exposed

Hokkaido University scientists have discovered the missing link in a rare hereditary disease that impairs the skin's barrier function. They found that fatty acid transporter member 4 (FATP4) plays a critical role in synthesizing acylceramides, key skin lipids that prevent water loss and protect against pathogens.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 29, 2020