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Science News Archive November 2015 - Page 30


Page 30 of 35

Supervolcanoes likely triggered externally, study finds

A new study suggests that massive magma chambers in supervolcanoes may erupt when the roof above them cracks or collapses, rather than building up internal pressure. The researchers found that the size of the magma chamber is a key factor in triggering eruptions, and that external forces such as earthquakes or faults may play a role.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research·DateNov 4, 2015

Scarlet fever making a comeback

A recent study by University of Queensland researchers has tracked the re-emergence of scarlet fever-causing bacteria, resulting in a significant increase in cases worldwide. The rise in scarlet fever could pre-empt a future rise in rheumatic heart disease, highlighting the need for swift identification and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 4, 2015

Mooving manure beyond drug-resistant bacteria

Research found that composting is most reliable to kill bacteria with resistance genes in cow manure. Composting speeds up decomposition and reduces volume of manure. Manure management practices like composting and stockpiling can make it difficult for resistant bacteria to travel from farm to environment.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateNov 4, 2015

Can scientists agree on a definition of curiosity?

Researchers propose a working definition of curiosity as a drive state for information, which can be observed in organisms as simple as nematode worms. They also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of curiosity, including its role in learning and decision-making, and how it relates to attentional disorders.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateNov 4, 2015

More than skin deep

Researchers at LSU have identified a new gene regulation pathway that prevents inflammation and speeds up the skin's healing process. A nanoparticle-carried small interference RNA blocks the Nax sodium sensor, enabling faster healing.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 4, 2015

Does defensive medicine work?

A new study published in The BMJ found that higher-spending physicians face significantly fewer malpractice claims, with malpractice rates ranging from 1.6% to 4.1% per physician-year across specialties. This suggests that increased spending may signal defensive practice and reduce errors or liability.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 4, 2015

Should psychiatric hospitals ban smoking completely?

Experts argue that banning smoking in all areas of psychiatric hospitals can lead to better patient engagement with treatment and improved mental health. Studies show that patients with serious mental health problems are more likely to die prematurely due to smoking-related diseases.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 4, 2015

Warning over online access to sleeping tablets

Experts warn that easily accessible online prescription sleeping tablets pose a significant risk of addiction and misuse, particularly for vulnerable individuals. The BMJ report highlights the need for regulatory authorities to ensure websites comply with medicines regulations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 4, 2015

A slim by design breakfast

A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab found that healthy-weight individuals tend to eat nutritious breakfasts including fruits and vegetables. The research revealed that egg consumption was higher than expected among slim people, highlighting the importance of breakfast in weight management.

Who's the 'enviest' of them all?

A recent study by UC San Diego researchers found that young adults experience envy more frequently than older adults, particularly in regards to physical appearance and academic success. The study also revealed that men and women tend to envy someone of the same age group, with younger participants reporting envy over looks and romance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBasic and Applied Social Psychology·DateNov 4, 2015

Home remediation in low-income housing shows significant effect on childhood asthma

A program combining home repairs, training, and comprehensive care significantly reduces childhood asthma symptoms and emergency department visits in low-income urban public housing. Removing asthma triggers such as mold and pests from these homes helps address the disproportionate impact of childhood asthma on minority communities.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Justice·DateNov 4, 2015

Bottle-brush design enhances cellular imaging

Researchers developed bottle-brush nanotags to enhance cellular imaging by containing thousands of fluorophores, overcoming the limit of self-quenching and amplifying signal detection. The design permits the use of different dyes, enabling a wide range of colors for these fluorescent nanotags.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateNov 4, 2015