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Science News Archive March 2015 - Page 38


Page 38 of 38

Brain waves

Research at Harvard Medical School identifies basal forebrain GABA parvalbumin neurons as crucial for triggering synchronized brain waves associated with conscious thought and perception. These neurons use the neural inhibitor GABA to create a pulsing rhythm, fine-tuning cognition and organization of data from the world around us.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2015

Did climate change help spark the Syrian war?

A new study suggests that a record drought in Syria (2006-2010) was likely stoked by ongoing manmade climate change, contributing to the 2011 Syrian uprising. The researchers found that the drought destroyed agriculture and drove dispossessed farmers to cities, exacerbating poverty and government mismanagement.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2015

One step closer to defeating Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that deleting TREM2 receptor in mice with AD-like disease reduced plaque formation, brain inflammation, and improved neuron survival. Macrophages lacking TREM2 were more effective at clearing beta-amyloid aggregates, suggesting a potential role for the receptor in neurodegeneration.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015

New research aims to refine increasingly popular plastic surgery procedures: Buttock augmentation and vaginal rejuvenation surgery

Researchers evaluate changes in gluteal muscle volume after silicone implant placement, finding significant muscle atrophy despite improved body shape. A new classification system is proposed to standardize labiaplasty techniques, ensuring better patient outcomes and satisfaction rates.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMar 2, 2015

The hidden burden of dengue fever in West Africa

A study by University of Miami researchers found dengue virus circulating in urban areas of Ghana, with 21.6% of malaria patients tested positive for long-lasting dengue IgG antibodies, indicating lifetime exposure. The findings suggest that up to one-third of all outpatient visits could be misdiagnosed as malaria.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateMar 2, 2015

US women's awareness of breast density varies

A Mayo Clinic study found that US women's awareness of breast density varies significantly by race, ethnicity, household income, education level, and healthcare experiences. More than half of women reported having heard of breast density, but only 53% knew it was associated with cancer risk.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 2, 2015

Despite broad awareness, only half of doctors use prescription drug monitoring programs

A survey of 420 primary care physicians found that nearly three-quarters reported accessing their state's database easily, but most faced barriers to using the data. The study suggests that improving program usability and information sharing between states could increase participation and reduce prescription drug abuse.

The failure of the Medicare principle of universality

A new study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that Australia's mental health care system is multi-tiered rather than universal, with those living in disadvantaged areas receiving fewer services and from less highly trained providers. The research highlights a disparity in access to psychiatric and clinical psychologis...

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateMar 1, 2015

Soft drink tax could improve health of the nation

A new study suggests that an excise tax on sugar-sweetened drinks can effectively reduce consumption rates, especially among heavy drinkers. The research found that adding a 20 cents per litre tax was more effective than a sales tax of similar levels in lowering consumption rates.

SourceMonash University·JournalHealth Economics·DateMar 1, 2015