Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2015 - Page 2


Page 2 of 31

Undocumented Mexican immigrants' kids have higher risk of behavior problems

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that children of undocumented Mexican immigrants have a significantly higher risk of internalizing and externalizing behavior problems compared to their co-ethnic counterparts with documented or naturalized citizen mothers. The study used data from over 2,500 children ages three to 17 in L...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateFeb 26, 2015

Looking into the light

Jon Schuller, UCSB assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, is studying how light interacts with complex materials like plastics, which have unique optical properties. The research could lead to the development of new organic photonic devices with enhanced performance and low-cost semiconductors.

Patient perceptions of physician compassion measured

A study published in JAMA Oncology found that patients with advanced cancer perceived a higher level of compassion from physicians when presented with an optimistically framed message about future treatment options. The results suggest the need for extra support and care for delivering bad news while preserving hope.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateFeb 26, 2015

Children of undocumented Mexican immigrants have heightened risk of behavior problems

A new study reveals that children of undocumented Mexican immigrants are more likely to experience internalizing and externalizing behavior problems, such as sadness and aggressiveness. The researchers rule out explanations based on socioeconomic status or maternal mental health, highlighting the need for culturally-sensitive services.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateFeb 26, 2015

A taxi ride to starch granules

The discovery of Protein Targeting to Starch (PTST) reveals the crucial role of a molecule in transporting Granular Bound Starch Synthase (GBSS) to starch granules, necessary for normal amylose synthesis. The research found that PTST is essential for GBSS stability and function.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 26, 2015

Online education tool helps bridge gaps in therapeutic decision-making for advanced NSCLC

An interactive online education tool has been developed to help practicing oncologists with therapeutic decision-making for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by providing feedback from an expert panel. The tool integrates clinical, histological, and molecular features into treatment plans, leading to a change in treatment cho...

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 26, 2015

Why debunked autism treatment fads persist

Despite being discredited, interventions like Facilitated Communication remain widely used in the autism community due to emotional appeal and a desire for quick fixes. Experts emphasize the need for better education on effective treatments and caution against false hope.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalEvidence-Based Communication Assessment and Intervention·DateFeb 26, 2015

Cancer screening concerns

Research reveals that adults in Ontario with IDD are nearly twice as likely not to be up-to-date on colorectal tests compared to their non-IDD counterparts. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to make cancer screening more equitable in this population, where chronic conditions like cancer increase with age.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2015

Social circles

A new study by MIT researchers uses anonymized phone data to infer that around one-fifth of urban movement is strictly social, distinguishing it from work-oriented activity. The study's findings have implications for planners and policymakers seeking estimates of city movement.

'Blue-green algae' proliferating in lakes

A global study reveals a rapid increase in cyanobacteria levels in lakes over the past two centuries, with alarming acceleration since the mid-20th century. The research highlights the potential for toxic algal blooms to contaminate drinking water and pose serious health risks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEcology Letters·DateFeb 26, 2015

New research signals big future for quantum radar

Researchers have developed a hybrid quantum radar system that uses microwave-optical entanglement to detect cancer cells and stealth aircraft. The device operates at lower energies than conventional systems, enabling long-term potential for non-invasive medical applications such as NMR scans.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2015

Studies find emergency doctors and paramedics commonly misinterpret documents for end-of-life care choices, reports Journal of Patient Safety

Studies found significant confusion among emergency physicians and prehospital care providers in interpreting POLST orders. Only when specifying CPR and full treatment did consensus rates reach 95%. The studies call for continued research, standards, and education to ensure patient autonomy and appropriate care.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Patient Safety·DateFeb 26, 2015

New cicada species discovered in Switzerland and Italy

Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a new singing cicada species in Italy and southern Switzerland with a four-centimeter wingspan and high-pitched song. The 'Italian Mountain Cicada' has been identified through its distinctive song pattern, which includes slow phrases alternating with fast and rhythmic ones.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateFeb 26, 2015