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Science News Archive June 2009 - Page 16


Page 16 of 26

A case of cecal volvulus

A case of cecal volvulus was reported in a 78-year-old woman with severe abdominal pain and fever. The patient underwent an emergent laparotomy and recovered after intensive care. A review of Japanese literature revealed an increase in aged patients with mental disabilities presenting with cecal volvulus, adoption of ileo-colectomy as ...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJun 11, 2009

If you do good, you look good

A study by Dr. Anat Bracha of Tel Aviv University found that participating in charitable events in public settings boosts donations due to positive recognition from the community. In contrast, monetary incentives are more effective in private settings, where social judgment is less present.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateJun 11, 2009

The microbial hydrocarbon diet

Researchers have found the optimal conditions for a new microbe to degrade n-hexadecane, suggesting a more effective approach to bioremediation. The team discovered that enzymes within the microbial cell and its membrane are responsible for degradation, with neutral pH and 30 Celsius temperature being ideal conditions.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Pollution·DateJun 11, 2009

Hidden genitalia in female water striders makes males 'sing'

In a study on female water striders, researchers found that females use morphological shields to protect their genitalia from male attempts at copulation. In response, males produce a courtship song by tapping the water surface, allowing females to expose their genitalia only after receiving the signal.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 11, 2009

Researchers at Case Western Reserve discover a new way the body fights fungal infection

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have identified a critical role of interleukin-1β in protecting against oral colonization by Candida albicans. The study found that IL-1β is secreted by human immune cells in response to Candida infection and helps modulate the immune system, providing new avenues for therapeutic targets.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateJun 11, 2009

New American College of Surgeons risk calculator determines colorectal surgery risk

A new risk calculator developed by the American College of Surgeons can help surgeons provide patients with more detailed preoperative information about the risk of death and complications following colorectal surgery. The tool considers both patient and hospital factors, improving resource planning and informed decision making.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 11, 2009

Study reveals publics' ignorance of anatomy

A study published in BMC Family Practice found that most people lack basic knowledge of human anatomy. Approximately half of the participants correctly identified the location of major organs, highlighting potential problems in doctor-patient communication and diagnosis.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Family Practice·DateJun 11, 2009

The dark side of animation

A study found that custom animations in PowerPoint lectures negatively impact student learning, requiring greater concentration and reducing exposure time. In contrast, static graphics are better retained by students.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Innovation and Learning·DateJun 11, 2009

A strong future for women in medicine

Despite progress, women still face underrepresentation in senior academic roles and limited flexible working support. The medical profession should be secure with a merit-based selection process, providing a larger talent pool for both women and men.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 11, 2009