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Technology changing teacher's role

A recent Finnish-Swiss-Belgian study finds that technology changes the teacher's role from a traditional knowledge provider into a facilitator guiding students' learning processes and engaging in joint problem-solving. Technology offers new types of learning possibilities, including interactive learning and teaching opportunities.

Doctors who use health information technology are 'slightly' more likely to get patient data, reports Medical Care

A study published in Medical Care found that healthcare professionals who use health information technology are only slightly more likely to receive the necessary patient data for coordinated care. Despite this, many physicians still rely on non-electronic means to access patient information, highlighting ongoing challenges with health...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateJan 15, 2015

Framework may help improve use of social media during disasters

A new analysis identifies 15 distinct social media uses during disasters, including providing preparedness information and reconnecting community members. The proposed framework aims to standardize and organize disaster social media practices, potentially protecting lives and aiding recovery

SourceWiley·JournalDisasters·DateNov 4, 2014

Scientists create possible precursor to life

Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark discover information strings with peculiar properties that can replicate quickly and efficiently, leading to a self-organizing autocatalytic network. This mechanism has potential value for developing technology based on living processes, such as self-healing devices.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateOct 20, 2014

A new multi-bit 'spin' for MRAM storage

A France-US research team reports a new multi-bit MRAM storage paradigm that can store up to 4 bits per cell, rivaling flash memory in terms of storage density. The technology uses Crocus Technology's proprietary Magnetic Logic Unit (MLU) technology to remotely control a sensor to probe magnetic configurations.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 22, 2014

Expectant moms turn to 'Dr. Google' for pregnancy advice

Pregnant women are relying on internet search engines and social media for medical guidance, as they feel doctor's office literature is insufficient. The structure of prenatal care has changed little over the past century, leading to a disconnect between what healthcare providers offer and what patients want.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJul 7, 2014

Ghost writing the whip

Researchers at National University of Singapore develop marked ghost imaging technology to secure stored or shared electronic data. The technology hides data contents in multiple foggy files, making it harder for hackers to access.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 24, 2014

An ecological risk research agenda for synthetic biology

A new report outlines key research areas to study synthetic biology's potential ecological impacts, including species comparative research and genome stability. The report highlights the need for long-term support and interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex questions about synthetic biology's effects on the environment.

Information technology can simplify weight-loss efforts; social support still important for success

Research at the University of Missouri-Columbia found that information technology, such as smartphone apps, can aid in weight loss by streamlining tracking and providing visual feedback. Social support, however, remains essential for long-term success, with in-person connections preferred over online networks.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Telemedicine and E-Health·DateApr 29, 2014

Finnish research improves the reliability of ice friction assessment

Researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed a new thermodynamic model that improves the reliability of ice friction assessments. The model shows that sliding speed and ice temperature significantly affect surface friction, leading to erroneous interpretations in earlier laboratory measurements.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalCold Regions Science and Technology·DateApr 2, 2014

New bioinformatics tool to visualize transcriptomes

ZENBU integrates genome browsers with data analysis and linked expression views to facilitate interactive visualization of next-generation sequencing results. The tool allows for dynamic combination of thousands of experimental datasets, enabling scientists to discover new biological mechanisms.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMar 9, 2014

Potential future data storage at domain boundaries

Researchers have discovered a physical phenomenon that could prove suitable for use in further data aggregation, allowing information to be stored in the tiniest of spaces. The discovery was made using advanced electron microscopes and computer simulations, and involves ferroelectric polar properties within antiferroelectric materials.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2014