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Science News Archive July 2011 - Page 17


Page 17 of 25

Family planning in conflict

A new study finds that women in conflict-affected areas often want access to family planning but are unable to get it due to limited healthcare services. The research highlights the gap between what women want and what is available, with only a small percentage using modern contraception.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalConflict and Health·DateJul 12, 2011

A 'nutty' solution to type 2 diabetes management

New research from St. Michael's Hospital suggests that consuming two ounces of nuts daily can effectively control glycemic and serum lipid levels for people with Type 2 diabetes. The study found that nut consumption reduced HbA1c levels by two-thirds, a clinically meaningful improvement without weight gain.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalDiabetes Care·DateJul 12, 2011

Too much sitting may be bad for your health

A collection of articles in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine explores the health consequences of prolonged sitting time, independent of physical activity levels. Key findings suggest that sedentary behavior is a distinct health risk, with implications for workplace environments and children's health.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 12, 2011

Neural stem progenitor cell transplantation’s potential to aid spinal cord injury tested

A study published in Cell Transplantation investigated the optimal routes for transplanting neural stem/progenitor cells in animal models of spinal cord injury. Intralesional injection was found to be the best method, with high cell survival rates and no complications. This method holds promise for treating other disorders

Bladder cancer patients rarely receive recommended care

A new study reveals that nearly all high-grade noninvasive bladder cancer patients do not receive complete care as recommended by current guidelines. This suboptimal care has serious consequences, including increased risk of recurrence and progression to invasive tumors.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateJul 11, 2011

Writing DNR orders takes longer, death more likely when surrogate decision-maker involved

A three-year study of 668 adults found that surrogate decision-making significantly delays writing DNR orders, leading to shorter time frames between decision and cardiac arrest, reduced palliative care, and less time for families to cope with death. Surrogate decision-makers may struggle with complex ethical and communication issues.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJul 11, 2011

Natural pain relief from poisonous shrub

Researchers extracted the plant's physiologically active components and found that 200 and 400 mg/kg doses produced analgesia comparable to aspirin. The extract may be acting through both peripheral and central pain mechanisms.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Technology·DateJul 11, 2011

Do-it-yourself brain repair following stroke

Perlecan domain V protects nerve cells from death and promotes blood vessel growth after stroke, enhancing brain repair. Elevated levels of perlecan domain V were detected in rodent models of stroke, suggesting it may provide a nontoxic therapy to improve stroke outcomes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 11, 2011

Malaria parasites use camouflage to trick immune defences of pregnant women

Researchers have discovered that malaria parasites employ camouflage to avoid detection by the immune system in pregnant women. This allows the parasite to infect the placenta, putting both the mother and unborn child at risk. The study provides insight into the complex ways in which malaria evades the human immune response.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 11, 2011

JCI online early table of contents: July 11, 2011

Researchers have identified a way to exploit brain's self-repair mechanism to protect nerve cells and enhance brain repair after stroke. Estradiol has been shown to protect male rats against beta-cell failure in rodent models of type 2 diabetes, suggesting estrogen receptors as a viable therapeutic target.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 11, 2011

Employers with tipped employees

The federal and state laws governing the tip credit, tip pooling, and service charges are complex, with varying requirements for employers. Employers must carefully review their policies to ensure compliance and avoid costly class action lawsuits.

SourceSAGE·JournalCompensation & Benefits Review·DateJul 11, 2011