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Science News for June 17, 2011


Hospitalizing children with normal CT scans after blunt head trauma is not necessary

A large national multi-center study found that most children with minor blunt head trauma and normal CT scans do not require hospitalization for further observation. Children who were hospitalized after normal CT scans did not have subsequent abnormal CT scans or MRIs, and none required neurosurgical intervention.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateJun 17, 2011

Etanercept shows promise for treating dermatomyositis

A multicenter pilot study found etanercept successfully weaned patients from steroid therapy, with no significant increase in adverse event rates. Larger studies are needed to investigate the safety and efficacy of etanercept for dermatomyositis treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 17, 2011

ONR announces technology investments

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has announced significant investments in technology and education to promote student interest in the sciences. The agency is supporting various partnerships aimed at kindling student enthusiasm for STEM disciplines, with a focus on teacher training and hands-on activities.

Imaging cereals for increased crop yields

Researchers use computerized 3-D models to estimate plant yield based on measurable attributes, enabling rapid and accurate prediction of large numbers of plants' potential yields. The project aims to improve Australian agriculture's efficiency and competitiveness by producing more food for a growing population.

Restoring memory, repairing damaged brains

Researchers develop a way to duplicate the neural mechanism of learning in rats, restoring memory function. The team's artificial hippocampal system can strengthen internal brain memory and enhance cognitive processes, paving the way for potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·DateJun 17, 2011

University of Louisville surgeons perform first prosthetic bypass graft with patient's stem cells at point-of-care

Researchers have successfully performed a new surgical procedure that uses a patient's own stem cells to line man-made bypass grafts, aiming to improve the long-term results of peripheral artery disease treatment. The first three patients enrolled in the clinical trial are doing well and report relief from symptoms almost immediately.