Friday, January 1, 2016

ScienceDaily: Latest Science News

ScienceDaily: Latest Science News


New DFG Grant proposal for a software quality control able to stand the test of time

Posted: 30 Dec 2015 11:38 AM PST

For a software to be maintained in an optimal condition, as well as in track of any necessary updates and innovations, it needs to be kept in check constantly. A new grant proposal suggests a new set of quality control approaches meant to analyze a software both manually and automatically during its creation and from before its introduction.

Opioid prescribing guideline significantly decreases prescription rates

Posted: 29 Dec 2015 05:46 PM PST

An opioid prescribing guideline had an immediate and sustained impact on opioid prescribing rates for minor conditions and chronic noncancer pain in an acute care setting, emergency medicine physicians have found.

Researchers link climate-induced disasters, food security across time, place

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 01:12 PM PST

Societal vulnerability to food shortage causes susceptibility to dangerous outcomes from climate challenges, new research confirms. This research shows that social factors like limited networks and mobility are the main contributors to vulnerability to food shortage.

Seeking treatment earlier may improve heart attack outcomes

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 01:12 PM PST

While hospitals have made strides in reducing the time it takes to treat heart attack patients once they arrive at the hospital, patient delays recognizing symptoms and seeking treatment are associated with increased damage to the heart, according to a study.

Treatment time lags for heart attack patients with prior bypass graft surgery

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 01:12 PM PST

Heart attack patients who had previously undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery were less likely than other heart attack patients, including those with prior angioplasty, to be treated within the 90-minute recommended 'door-to-balloon time,' according to a study.

Simultaneous detection of polarities of hundreds of semiconducting nanowires

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 09:51 AM PST

Researchers have developed a technique to determine the individual polarities of hundreds of semiconducting nanowires in a single, time-saving process. The study constitutes a major step forward in both our understanding and application of these structures, since their polarity defines the properties of devices made from, say the scientists.

Gene analysis could allow the risk determination for esophageal cancer

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 09:51 AM PST

A genetic modification in the mucous membrane of the esophagus, the Barrett esophagus, can lead to esophageal cancer. If certain biomarkers are contained in these tissue alterations, so-called miDNA, these are extremely short DNA strands, it could be an indication that this preliminary stage of esophageal cancer indeed leads to cancer, scientists have discovered.

Researchers see promising results in treating age-related decline in muscle mass and power

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 09:47 AM PST

A proof-of-concept, phase 2 trial by an international research team has found promising results for a myostatin antibody in treating the decline in muscle mass and power associated with aging.

Eating healthy or feeling empty?

Posted: 28 Dec 2015 09:46 AM PST

Eating too much is typically considered one of the prime culprits of obesity. Now a new study has looked specifically at overconsumption of 'healthy' foods which consumers often perceive as less filling.

Liver may sway sweet tooth, alcohol consumption

Posted: 25 Dec 2015 11:15 AM PST

It may be your liver (and not your better judgement) that keeps you away from excess sweets this holiday season. Two independent research groups have found the first evidence of a liver-derived hormone that specifically regulates intake of sugars and alcohol in mice. One of the studies also found that the same hormone suppresses the consumption of sweets in primates.

Potent parasite-killing mechanism of anti-malarial drug uncovered

Posted: 23 Dec 2015 11:14 AM PST

A team of researchers has uncovered the mystery behind the potent parasite-killing effect of artemisinin, a drug that is considered to be the last line of defense against malaria. Given the emergence of artemisinin resistance, these findings could potentially lead to the design of new treatments against drug-resistant parasites.

Philippine coastal zone research reveals tropical cyclone disruption of nutrient cycling

Posted: 23 Dec 2015 11:14 AM PST

The influence of Typhoon Haiyan damage on leaf nutrient traits in coastal habitats is explored by researchers in a new study. Their publication illuminates several ways in which a tropical cyclone disrupts nutrient flow through the ecosystem.

Midnight munchies mangle memory

Posted: 23 Dec 2015 11:14 AM PST

Modern schedules can lead us to eat around the clock so it is important to understand how this could dull some of the functions of the brain. New research in mice shows that clocks in different regions of the brain start working out of step, altering the brain's physiology.

Helmetless-tackling drills significantly reduce head impact

Posted: 23 Dec 2015 11:14 AM PST

Sparked by national debate and efforts to help make football safer for players, research has found that a novel set of helmetless-tackling drills are effective in reducing head impacts by 28 percent in one season.

Newly discovered windows of brain plasticity may help stress-related disorders

Posted: 23 Dec 2015 11:13 AM PST

Even under repeated stress, the brain maintains the potential to adapt and recover. Researchers have shown how changes in gene expression cause these transitory opportunities to open up. Their results suggest well-timed treatment could change the trajectory of a brain suffering from a stress-related disorder.