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Science News Archive September 2014 - Page 11


Page 11 of 34

University of Chicago neuroscientists challenge long-held understanding of the sense of touch

Researchers challenged the long-held principle that separate groups of nerves and receptors are responsible for distinct components of touch. They found that all types of afferents contribute to the overall sensation, regardless of specific textures or shapes. This new understanding has far-reaching implications for the study of somato...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Where is that spacecraft?

The Gauss von Mises (GVM) distribution offers improved predictive capabilities for tracking infrequently-observed space objects. This new approach allows for more accurate prediction of satellite and debris locations, enabling better resource allocation and detection of potential collisions.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM/ASA Journal on Uncertainty Quantification·DateSep 22, 2014

Firelight talk of the Kalahari Bushmen

A University of Utah study suggests that stories told over firelight helped human culture and thought evolve by reinforcing social traditions and promoting harmony. Researchers analyzed scores of daytime and firelight conversations among !Kung Bushmen, finding that nighttime discussions involved more storytelling and imaginative thought.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Job loss fears may boost first-time asthma risk

Research found that workers experiencing high levels of job insecurity were more likely to develop asthma. The study, based on a German survey, indicates a potential link between psychological stress and new onset asthma.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateSep 22, 2014

Scientists seen as competent but not trusted by Americans

A new review published in PNAS reveals that Americans view scientists as competent, but not entirely trusted. To gain public trust, scientists should focus on conveying warm intentions and expertise, rather than persuasive agendas. The study's findings highlight the importance of warmth and trustworthiness in scientific communication.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

Variability keeps the body in balance

The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, uses control theory to analyze heart rate data from athletes and found that a healthy heart must maintain certain patterns of variability during exercise to keep the body in balance. This variability is essential for maintaining homeostasis and preventing fati...

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014

We drink more alcohol on gym days

A Northwestern Medicine study found that people drink more alcohol on days when they exercise, particularly Thursdays to Sundays. The study used smartphone technology to record daily physical activity and alcohol use, and found uniform results across age groups.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateSep 22, 2014

New guidelines issued for managing peri- and postoperative atrial fibrillation

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery has released new evidence-based guidelines for preventing and treating perioperative and postoperative atrial fibrillation. The guidelines aim to reduce the incidence of POAF, which is associated with longer hospital stays, increased morbidity, and mortality.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateSep 22, 2014

Discount generic drug programs grow over time

The use of generic discount drug programs (GDDPs) has grown significantly since their introduction in 2006, with a notable increase in racial/ethnic minorities. GDDPs can help reduce medication costs and improve access to drug therapy for vulnerable populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 22, 2014

Classroom intervention helps shy kids learn

A NYU study found that a classroom intervention program helps shy children improve their math and critical thinking skills, with effects substantially greater for shy kids compared to control group peers. The INSIGHTS program teaches teachers to recognize individual temperaments and support differences.

SourceNew York University·JournalSchool Psychology Review·DateSep 22, 2014

Communication without detours

Researchers at the University of Bonn discovered a previously unknown nerve cell shape that allows signals to be transmitted directly from dendrites to axons, bypassing the cell body. This unique structure facilitates faster and more efficient communication between neurons.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuron·DateSep 22, 2014

Battling superbugs

Researchers use CRISPR genome-editing system to target specific genes conferring antibiotic resistance, resulting in 99% killing of resistant bacteria. CombiGEM technology rapidly identifies genetic combinations that sensitize bacteria to different antibiotics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateSep 21, 2014