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A new laser source for infrared chemical imaging

Researchers at Université de Limoges developed a compact, optical fibre-based laser source that rivals synchrotron facilities in performing infrared spectromicroscopy. This breakthrough enables accurate chemical imaging of biological tissues with high precision, paving the way for early cancer diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversité de Limoges·JournalOptica·DateMar 23, 2018

Study examines differences in hip fracture rates among nursing homes

A nationally representative study found considerable variation in US nursing home hip fracture rates among facilities. The majority of the variation remained unexplained by measured characteristics, but psychotropic medication prescribing and staffing requirements emerged as plausible targets for initiatives to reduce hip fractures.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 22, 2018

Four to beam up

Jefferson Lab's Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) successfully delivered beams to all four experimental halls for the first time. This milestone enables researchers to conduct more complex studies and maximize research output, potentially leading to breakthroughs in nuclear physics.

The Lancet Public Health: Living near physical activity facilities linked to smaller waistline, lower BMI and lower body fat percentage

A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that people living within a kilometre of physical activity facilities have smaller waist circumferences, lower BMI, and lower body fat percentages. Increasing access to physical activity facilities and reducing fast food outlets may help reduce obesity.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateDec 12, 2017

Blast off!

The University of Pittsburgh has established a new NSF-funded research center, SHREC, to focus on mission-critical computing in space, high-performance computing, and resilient computing. The center aims to bring in $1 million in annual external funding and collaborate with industry partners.

A fresh set of eyes: Rotating plant inspectors reduces risk of medical device recalls

A seven-year review found that more frequent rotation of plant inspectors at medical device manufacturing facilities leads to fewer product recalls. The study suggests that rotating investigators reduces the risk of recalls by 21-57% depending on the number of visits, providing an objective assessment of a plant's quality.

SourceIndiana University·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateSep 26, 2017

Sharp rise in common ownership

A recent analysis found that nearly half of hospitals have shared ownership with providers in post-acute care or hospice sectors, up from 25 percent in 2005. This trend has significant implications for antitrust, payment, and regulatory policies, as well as the quality and cost of care.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 5, 2017

How to educate future therapists more effectively

A Concordia study identifies conflicting demands of education and therapy in the classroom, causing emotional stress among students. The study recommends increased transparency between teachers and students, clearer policies on affective material, and discussions on ethical practices to enhance the student experience.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Arts in Psychotherapy·DateJun 15, 2017

How to attack Africa's neonatal mortality problem

A new study by Michigan State University scholars highlights the need to address inadequate healthcare and water access in Africa to reduce neonatal mortality rates. The study found that nearly half of under-5 child deaths occur during the neonatal period, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalGeospatial health·DateJun 1, 2017

The fed's bank bailout

New research from Washington University in St. Louis shows that the Fed's actions were effective in encouraging banks to lend, benefiting the economy. The study found that a total of 62% of bigger US banks used the Discount Window or Term Auction Facility during the crisis, leading to increased lending of almost all types.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Financial Intermediation·DateMar 16, 2017

Molecular phenomenon discovered by advanced NMR facility

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered a molecular phenomenon where a guanosine derivative changes its supramolecular structure upon transitioning from solution to solid state and vice versa. This defies chemical precedent, suggesting a complex interplay between molecular interactions in different environments.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateFeb 17, 2017

Proteins at the movies

Researchers have successfully filmed protein folding in three dimensions for the first time, enabling them to observe minute changes in protein structures during transformation. The technique, developed using Japan's XFEL facility, has significant implications for drug development and studying membrane transport proteins.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·DateDec 22, 2016