Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2016 - Page 36


Page 36 of 39

Autophagy -- a review of techniques

The Autophagy Regulatory Network database provides integrated and systems-level source for autophagy research, containing data on over 14,000 proteins. The new edition of the guidelines offers recommendations for best practices in autophagy monitoring, measurement, and diagnosis.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalAutophagy·DateFeb 2, 2016

Extracting rare-earth elements from coal could soon be economical in US

Researchers at Penn State have developed a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to extract rare-earth elements from coal byproducts. This breakthrough could provide an economic boon for companies and reduce the US's dependence on importing these metals, which are essential for producing high-tech equipment.

SourcePenn State·JournalMetallurgical and Materials Transactions E·DateFeb 2, 2016

Geology 101

A new book by UC Santa Barbara geologist Arthur Sylvester explores the region's complex geology and notable features like the San Andreas Fault and Joshua Tree National Park. The guide includes 196 geo-referenced photographs, maps, and diagrams to help drivers appreciate the region's geological treasures.

Flu tackles Super Bowl fans

Researchers at Cornell University found a significant spike in flu-related deaths among people above 65 in areas with NFL teams that reached the Super Bowl. The study suggests disease transmission is driven by increased socialization and cramped spaces.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 2, 2016

'Schizophrenia' does not exist, argues expert

A professor of psychiatry argues that schizophrenia should be replaced with 'psychosis spectrum syndrome' due to the complexity and heterogeneity of psychotic illness. The current classification system uses outdated language and may lead to misdiagnosis or overemphasis on this condition.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 2, 2016

Using mathematics to improve human health

Researchers used mathematical calculations to create a complete picture of protein nanoparticle surface morphology, identifying structures most advantageous for vaccine design. This approach may lead to the development of cost-effective vaccines, including a malaria vaccine set to start clinical testing soon.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateFeb 2, 2016

Extending length of surgical trainees' shifts does not affect surgical patients' safety

A national multicenter randomized trial found that extending surgical trainees' shifts does not compromise patient safety. The study showed flexible duty hour policies reduced handoffs and increased residents' satisfaction with their training. The findings provide high-level evidence to inform resident duty hour policies.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2016

National politics shape the impacts of park law enforcement

A University of Illinois researcher found that a country's governance quality affects the livelihoods of families who rely on resources from national parks. In Benin, better governance led to better social and ecological outcomes, while Niger's poor governance resulted in negative consequences for poorer communities.

Doctor raises serious questions about medical awards system

A consultant cardiologist calls for a culture shift in British medicine to prioritize integrity and transparency, highlighting the case of Anjan Kumar Banerjee, who was awarded an MBE despite research fraud and financial misconduct. The doctor argues that the system is opaque and prone to manipulation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateFeb 2, 2016

Pilot training program to improve transgender competency among medical staff in an urban clinic

A pilot training program implemented in an urban clinic significantly improved attitudes and clinical skills towards transgender individuals. The evaluation showed a notable change in awareness of transphobic practices and readiness to serve transgender patients, indicating potential for broader healthcare equity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalTransgender Health·DateFeb 2, 2016

Fishing for answers about mercury consumption

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that moderate seafood consumption was associated with less Alzheimer's disease pathology, including lower amyloid plaques and tangles. Seafood intake was only linked to reduced harm when individuals had a specific genetic profile, highlighting the need for personalized nutrition advice.

Inflammation attacks brain's reward center

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry suggests that inflammation can directly affect the brain's reward center, leading to changes in behavior similar to depression. The study found that patients with hepatitis C who received interferon-alpha treatment showed microstructural changes in their striatum, which was associated with...

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2016

The secret of scholars who impact policy

A new study in PNAS suggests that environmental scholars can increase their policy impact by consulting widely with stakeholders during research. Stakeholder engagement is found to be a better predictor of future policy impacts than perceived scientific credibility.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2016

Teen suicide: ADHD medication as prevention

Researchers challenge Health Canada's black-box warnings on ADHD medications, citing epidemiological studies showing reduced youth suicide rates with increased medication use. The study suggests that ADHD medications may actually reduce the risk of suicide in adolescents, contradicting previous warnings.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateFeb 1, 2016