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Science News Archive January 2015 - Page 25


Page 25 of 28

Social equity in urban transportation planning

A recent study published in Transport Policy found that many North American cities prioritize environmental and congestion-reduction goals over social-equity objectives. Researchers analyzed 18 metropolitan areas and identified clear indicators for promoting social equity, such as changes in accessibility to desired destinations and di...

SourceMcGill University·JournalTransport Policy·DateJan 7, 2015

Having a hard time focusing?

A research team at McGill University has identified a complex of neurons in the lateral prefrontal cortex that interact to filter visual information while ignoring distractions. The discovery has far-reaching implications for understanding diseases such as autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateJan 7, 2015

Shedding light on why blue LEDS are so tricky to make

Scientists at UCL have discovered the root of the problem in making blue LEDs by examining gallium nitride's unusual behavior using sophisticated computer simulations. The study reveals that doping with magnesium is necessary to achieve the desired properties, but the complexity of the process was previously unknown.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 7, 2015

Music cuts across cultures

Researchers discovered that despite cultural differences, listeners from various groups responded similarly to the excitement and calmness of music. The study used emoticons and physiological measurements to compare reactions to Western and Pygmy music.

SourceMcGill University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJan 7, 2015

Drug stimulates brown fat and boosts metabolism

A FDA-approved drug may help combat obesity by stimulating brown fat's metabolic activity, increasing resting metabolic rate, and promoting weight loss in rodents. Researchers discovered that mirabegron activates the beta-3 adrenergic receptor, a promising target for obesity treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 6, 2015

Fractional quantum Hall effect: Experimental progress and quantum computing applications

Recent research on the fractional quantum Hall effect (FQHE) has made significant progress, including the observation of the 5/2 filling state in graphene. This state is an even denominator state that requires new theoretical concepts to understand its many-body physics. FQHE applications in quantum computing are also being explored.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 6, 2015

Study finds certification may impact surgical patients

A recent study published in AORN Journal found that specialty nursing certification contributes to improved surgical patient outcomes in hospitals. The research showed higher rates of certified ambulatory perianesthesia nurse (CAPA) and certified nurse operating room (CNOR) certifications were associated with lower rates of central-lin...

Poor vitamin D status linked to longer respiratory support in ICU patients, study finds

A new cohort study found that low plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels are inversely associated with the need for mechanical ventilation in critically ill surgical patients. The study suggests that optimized vitamin D status may reduce respiratory muscle weakness and systemic inflammation, leading to shorter respiratory support times.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJan 6, 2015

An unexpected way to recover from a breakup

A new study suggests that repeatedly reflecting on a breakup can speed emotional recovery. Researchers found that participants who completed a more intensive set of tasks and measures had better overall recovery from their breakups. Reflecting on the relationship helped participants build a stronger sense of themselves as single people.

SourceSAGE·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJan 6, 2015

Landmark trial: Early blood glucose control extends life in people with type 1 diabetes

A recent report led by a University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health investigator found that people with type 1 diabetes who intensively control their blood glucose soon after diagnosis are likely to live longer. The study showed a 33 percent reduction in deaths over the past several decades among participants.

Children's vulnerability reflected in genes

Researchers found that a specific gene variant is associated with children's vulnerability to negative environments, but also responded positively to an intensive intervention program called Fast Track. The study suggests that personalized treatments may be possible for society's most troubled children.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateJan 6, 2015