The world's most powerful acoustic tractor beam could pave the way for levitating humans
Acoustic tractor beams use the power of sound to hold particles in mid-air, and unlike magnetic levitation, they can grab most solids or liquids even small insects. For the first time University of Bristol engineers have shown it is possible to stably trap objects larger than the wavelength of sound in an acoustic tractor beam. This discovery could enable the manipulation of drug capsules or micro-surgical implements within the body. The discovery could even lead to levitating humans.
Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-01/uob-twm011918.php
Changing GP opening hours might be unlikely to ease rising burden of A&E visits
A new study has found no correlation between satisfaction with GP opening hours and the number of visits to A&E in England.
Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-01/icl-cgo011918.php
Epilepsy linked to brain volume and thickness differences
Epilepsy is associated with thickness and volume differences in the grey matter of several brain regions, according to new research led by UCL and the Keck School of Medicine of USC.The largest-ever neuroimaging study of people with epilepsy, published today in Brain, shows that epilepsy involves more widespread physical differences than previously assumed, even in types of epilepsy that are typically considered to be more benign if seizures are under control.
Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-01/ucl-elt011818.php
Study of learning and memory problems in OCD helps young people unlock potential at school
Adolescents with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have widespread learning and memory problems, according to research published today. The findings have already been used to assist adolescents with OCD obtain the help they needed at school to realize their potential -- including helping one individual go on to university.
Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-01/uoc-sol011818.php
Alcohol consumption in late teens can lead to liver problems in adulthood
Alcohol is the leading cause of liver cirrhosis and liver-related deaths. Results of a large long-term study in Sweden have confirmed that drinking during late adolescence could be the first step towards liver problems in adulthood and that guidelines for safe alcohol intake in men might have to be revised downwards, reports the Journal of Hepatology.
Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-01/e-aci011718.php
Human smugglers operate as 'independent traders,' study finds
First study to model the organizations behind trade in illegal border crossings shows no 'Mafia-like' monopoly of routes from Africa into Europe. Instead, myriad independent smugglers compete in open markets that have emerged at every stage of the journey.
Source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2018-01/uoc-hso011718.php
Source: http://www.eurekalert.org/
