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Science News Archive March 2016 - Page 12


Page 12 of 41

Brain to foot: Come in, foot!

A new study by ETH Zurich researchers sheds light on the body representation in paraplegics, finding altered communication between the brain and foot. The study used a task to analyze participants' responses to pictures of foreign body parts, revealing longer response times for those with complete spinal cord damage.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 22, 2016

Predicting severe hail storms

Researchers at University of Oklahoma are developing a higher-resolution model that uses Stampede supercomputer to predict severe hail storms with greater accuracy. The goal is to provide 2-hour warnings for storms like the May 1995 Fort Worth Mayfest storm, which caused over $2 billion in damage.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalWeather and Forecasting·DateMar 22, 2016

Noise disrupts the tactile skills of premature babies

A study by the University of Geneva found that excessive noise disrupts premature babies' tactile skills, hindering their ability to memorize shapes and distinguish between objects. The researchers suggest implementing environmental measures to reduce noise levels in neonatal units to support optimal brain development.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 22, 2016

Making the most out of biological observations data

The EU BON project published guidelines for standardized, easy-to-find, re-shareable, and re-usable biodiversity data. The report aims to increase interoperability of data and make its re-use both easy and legal. EU BON also promotes the use of biodiversity data as a common resource for human society.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalResearch Ideas and Outcomes·DateMar 22, 2016

Why do sunbathers live longer than those who avoid the sun?

New research found that women with active sun exposure habits had a lower risk of heart disease and noncancer deaths. Smokers in the highest sun exposure group were at a similar risk as non-smokers avoiding sun exposure. The study's findings suggest that guidelines regarding sun exposure may be too restrictive, potentially harming health.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateMar 22, 2016

Study shows levels of panda hearing

A study published in Global Ecology and Conservation reveals that giant pandas can detect sound into the ultrasonic range, potentially disrupting their reproductive success due to noise from human activities. The San Diego Zoo's contribution to this research has provided crucial insights into panda hearing sensitivity.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateMar 22, 2016

Printing nanomaterials with plasma

Researchers developed a new method that uses plasma to deposit nanomaterials onto flexible surfaces and 3-D objects. The technique can produce wearable chemical and biological sensors, flexible memory devices, batteries, and integrated circuits with improved efficiency and reduced costs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 22, 2016

Study: Half of parents of uninsured minority children unaware they are Medicaid eligible

Half of uninsured minority children are unaware they're eligible for Medicaid, leading to suboptimal health, special healthcare needs, and financial strain on families. Parents face significant stress and anxiety due to their child's health issues, with many experiencing financial problems and reduced work hours.

SourceMedica Research Institute·JournalInternational Journal for Equity in Health·DateMar 22, 2016

New method measures nicotine delivery from e-cigarettes

A new study evaluates a method for measuring nicotine delivery from e-cigarettes and finds that later-generation e-cigarettes with 'atomizers' deliver nicotine more consistently than earlier ones. The consistency of nicotine delivery from these atomizers is comparable to nicotine inhalers and tobacco cigarettes.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateMar 22, 2016

Use of open access platforms for clinical trial data

A study found that only 15.5% of available clinical trials were requested through open access platforms, suggesting underutilization due to lack of awareness or funding support. The researchers called for promoting the use of shared clinical trial data to increase transparency and validation studies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 22, 2016

DNA molecules directly interact with each other based on sequence, study finds

Researchers discovered that DNA molecules interact directly with each other based on their sequence and epigenetic factors, suggesting a new mechanism for DNA organization in the cell. The study found that methyl groups play a key role in regulating these interactions, which could impact gene expression and chromosome organization.

More cost-effective cure for hepatitis C may be close

Researchers at Loyola University Health System have developed a new approach to treating hepatitis C, using mathematical models to predict when patients can safely stop taking direct-acting antiviral medication. This approach could lead to a 50% reduction in treatment cost and improved patient adherence.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateMar 22, 2016