Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2014 - Page 30


Page 30 of 33

Survey finds 'significant gap' in detection of malnutrition in Canadian hospital patients

A survey of Canadian physicians reveals a significant gap between optimal practices for detecting and treating malnutrition in hospitalized patients. The study found that actual assessments completed were much lower than reported, with only 33% of patients being weighed upon admission.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJun 3, 2014

Solving sunspot mysteries

Multi-wavelength observations of sunspots have provided new insights into their complex and dynamic nature. The data revealed rapidly rotating plasma rolls, powerful shocks, and widespread plasma eruptions driven by solar-energy flux and controlled by intense magnetic fields.

Climate engineering can't erase climate change

A new report ranks climate engineering approaches in terms of feasibility and cost-effectiveness. Researchers conclude that reducing greenhouse gas emissions through low-carbon energy sources and behavioral changes is still the most effective way to confront climate change.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 3, 2014

Vanishing da Vinci

A team of researchers developed a new approach to identify and quantify chromophores in ancient paper, which contributes to the understanding of visual degradation processes. The study applied this technique to Leonardo da Vinci's self-portrait, revealing its degradation state and providing insights into environmental conditions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 3, 2014

Progress on detecting glucose levels in saliva

The new sensor uses dye chemistry and plasmonic interferometry to selectively measure glucose concentrations in complex solutions like human saliva. It can detect changes in glucose concentration of 0.1 micromoles per liter, which is 10 times more sensitive than previous methods.

SourceBrown University·JournalNanophotonics·DateJun 3, 2014

Proteins 'ring like bells'

Researchers at the University of Glasgow discovered that proteins like lysozyme can vibrate at frequencies similar to a few terahertz, allowing for efficient biochemical reactions. This 'ringing' motion enables proteins to morph quickly and bind with other molecules, critical for life's biological functions.

SourceUniversity of Glasgow_·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2014

New definition of kidney disease for clinical trials could lead to new treatments

A new study suggests revising the definition of kidney disease progression used in clinical trials could shorten trial length and encourage more trials. This revised definition, based on a decline in estimated kidney function, carries higher risks for end-stage renal disease and mortality but is common enough to facilitate testing.

Rice University produces carbon-capture breakthrough

Researchers at Rice University have created a porous material that can capture and polymerize carbon dioxide from natural gas at ambient temperature. The material shows promise to replace more costly and energy-intensive processes, enabling the economic production of gas resources with higher carbon dioxide content.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2014

Two planets orbit nearby ancient star

Astronomers have discovered two new planets orbiting a nearby ancient star, Kapteyn's Star, which is just 13 light years away from Earth. One planet, Kapteyn b, is thought to be warm enough to support liquid water on its surface, while the second, Kapteyn c, is a more massive super-Earth with uncertain habitability.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 3, 2014

In utero exposure to antidepressants may influence autism risk

A new study from Drexel University suggests that in utero exposure to antidepressant medications may contribute to a higher risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. The study analyzed large population-based registers and found a two-fold increased risk for ASD associated with in utero exposure to SSRIs.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJun 3, 2014

Breaking down barriers

Researchers at Vetmeduni Vienna warn of the impact of fencing and railway development on migratory ungulates in Mongolia's Gobi-Steppe Ecosystem. The authors advocate for structural modifications to fences, removal of unnecessary barriers, and re-routing of railway lines to minimize negative effects on ecosystem integrity.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalConservation Biology·DateJun 3, 2014