Science Researchers Sequence the Genome of the Denisovans, A Close Relative of the Neandertals

Researchers have now described the complete sequence of the Denisovan genome, shedding light on the relationships between these archaic humans, who were closely related to Neandertals, and modern humans. . .

By AAAS, USA.

Technology Policy Resource.

AAAS Award Encourages Creative Outreach As Part of a Scientist’s “Job Description”

You could call it the “Carl Sagan Trap,” after the late Cornell astronomer who was chided by some of his colleagues for spending too much time as a science popularizer. Far too many scientists still see themselves in this trap, seemingly caught between being a top-notch researcher and a public communicator. . .

By AAAS, USA.

Technology Policy Resource.

Genome Sequencing Provides High-Tech Tracking of Intensive-Care Outbreaks

Whole-genome sequencing of drug-resistant bacteria during a hospital outbreak could help infection control efforts, reports a new study in the 22 August issue of the journal Science Translational Medicine.The report details the steps taken after a 2011 outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae at a clinical center located at the National Institutes of Health. Six of the 18 patients infected during the outbreak died. 

By AAAS, USA.

Technology Policy Resource.

Landmark Study Confirms that Drug Treatment for AIDS Helps Prevent New Infections

Treatment is part of a total effort to contain the spread of most infectious diseases, from gonorrhea to tuberculosis. Most experts assumed that would apply to HIV as well—that treating people with antiretroviral therapy and lowering their HIV viral load would reduce the risk of transmission to others—but definitive evidence has been lacking. 

By AAAS, USA.

Technology Policy Resource.