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Science News Archive June 2016 - Page 14


Page 14 of 40

Study: Mandatory treatment not effective at reducing drug use, violates human rights

A recent study published in BMJ found that mandatory treatment for substance use disorders is not effective in reducing drug use and may violate human rights. The authors suggest community-based approaches such as methadone and buprenorphine treatment, harm-reduction programs like needle exchanges, and education on overdose medications.

Versatile method yields synthetic biology building blocks

Researchers have developed a high-throughput method for creating stable vesicles of controlled size using microfluidics. The approach works for both liposomes and polymersomes, enabling applications in synthetic biology such as encapsulation of biological agents and creation of artificial cell membranes.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateJun 21, 2016

New statistical approach will help researchers better determine cause-effect

A new statistical technique can help scientists determine causation of effects they are studying, providing a direction for research and overcoming ethical boundaries. The approach was tested on studies involving ADHD and lead exposure, and found support for the link between high levels of lead in blood and ADHD symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateJun 21, 2016

Sweden's 100 percent carbon-free emissions challenge

A Swedish study investigates the feasibility of replacing nuclear power with wind power in Sweden's energy mix. The authors conclude that a backup system based on fossil fuels would be required to maintain constant emissions, leading to doubled CO2 levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateJun 21, 2016

Odors can be measured by analytical chemistry

Researchers from Aarhus University create convincing model to predict and quantify odorants in the atmosphere, reducing nuisance and improving odor abatement solutions. The technique uses precise measurements of odorant content for on-site assessments, offering a more accurate alternative to human olfactory evaluations.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateJun 21, 2016

Better material insights with gentle e-beams

Researchers have developed a new method using gentle e-beams to study electron collisions with liquids, recording 2-dimensional spectra of molecules and measuring electronic excitation. This approach has shown promising results in evaluating quantum theoretical methods and may help identify alternatives to the greenhouse gas SF6.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJun 21, 2016

Mice fed more fiber have less severe food allergies

A study published in Cell Reports found that mice fed a high-fiber diet had fewer severe peanut allergies than those with an average fiber intake. The researchers discovered that gut bacteria release specific fatty acids in response to fiber intake, which impact allergic responses via changes to the immune system.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 21, 2016

Core proteins exert control over DNA function

Core proteins partially disassemble to facilitate gene activation, according to Rice University researchers. Their detailed models support the idea that DNA unwrapping and core protein unfolding are coupled, with histone tails playing a crucial role in nucleosome stability.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 21, 2016

Fossil fuel combustion endangers children’s health in two significant ways: A scientist reviews the evidence

Children are disproportionately affected by disease from air pollution and climate change due to their biological vulnerability. Reducing fossil fuel dependence can alleviate these issues, resulting in fewer low birth weight babies, asthma cases, and neurodevelopmental problems.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 21, 2016

New link found between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease

Research reveals a close relationship between Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes, with drugs used to treat diabetes potentially alleviating Alzheimer's symptoms and vice versa. The study found that dementia-related complications can lead to changes in glucose handling and ultimately diabetes.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateJun 21, 2016

The benefits of friending a grownup

A Drexel University study found that teen-adult social media interactions can aid in students' maturation process by modeling appropriate behavior and teaching self-censoring skills. The research also highlights the importance of establishing healthy relationships with adults on social media to help teens understand boundaries.

Reforming clinical research to reduce waste

Clinical research waste is estimated at 85% of total medical research costs. Professor Ioannidis argues that reforming clinical research with problem-base, context-placing, and patient-centered features can make it more useful to clinicians. This would result in more efficient and effective clinical decision-making.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 21, 2016

UNC researchers help create key diagnostic measures for gastrointestinal disorders

A team of UNC School of Medicine researchers played a critical role in amending diagnostic criteria questionnaires for functional GI disorders. The Rome IV publication updates the diagnostic tools available to clinicians, incorporating research on symptoms and patient experiences. These changes improve treatment options for millions of...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalHYDROMETEOROLOGY AND ECOLOGY PROCEEDINGS OF THE RUSSIAN STATE HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL UNIVERSITY·DateJun 21, 2016