Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2011 - Page 14


Page 14 of 29

Welsh wound test could save NHS

Developed by Cardiff University, the test identifies a wound type based on its gene signature with an initial accuracy rate of 98%. It has the potential to transform service provision and provide the right treatment at the earliest possible opportunity.

NIH scientists find earliest known evidence of 1918 influenza pandemic

Researchers discovered proteins and genetic material from the 1918 influenza virus in specimens from 37 soldiers, including four who died between May and August 1918. The findings suggest that the virus did not undergo a dramatic change during the pandemic, contributing to unusually high mortality.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2011

Time is of the essence when it comes to stroke treatment

A new image-guided technique may enable more stroke patients to be successfully treated, particularly those living far from specialist medical care. Researchers found no difference in recovery time or 90-day survival rates between patients receiving treatment within six hours of symptom onset.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of NeuroInterventional Surgery·DateSep 19, 2011

Primitive birds shared dinosaurs' fate

A new study provides clear evidence that many primitive bird species survived right up until the time of the Chicxulub meteorite impact. The team identified and dated a large collection of bird fossils representing various species, showing diversity in size, beak structure, and other features.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2011

Lasers light the path to neuron regeneration

A multidisciplinary approach using laser technology has been successfully employed to fabricate tiny scaffolds for cell delivery and growth in damaged neural tissue. This study demonstrates the potential of direct laser writing in tissue engineering, enabling precise control over scaffold design and structure.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBiofabrication·DateSep 19, 2011

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

The American College of Physicians advocates for a seventh ACGME/ABMS general competency on cost-conscious care. Meanwhile, research on Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure in relation to diabetes remains inconclusive. Additionally, local incidence data may improve the diagnosis of strep throat, which affects millions worldwide each year.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 19, 2011

Why carbon nanotubes spell trouble for cells

Researchers at Brown University found that carbon nanotubes enter cells tip-first and at a 90-degree angle, often causing repeated inflammation. The team's study suggests that understanding how nanomaterials interact with cells is crucial for designing products that help cells rather than harm them.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 18, 2011

Catching a breath -- wirelessly

Researchers developed a noninvasive wireless system to measure breathing rates, alerting caregivers if breathing stops. The technique could increase surgery patient safety and reduce infant mortality by detecting sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) without invasive monitoring.

Gamers succeed where scientists fail

A team of gamers solved the molecular structure of a retrovirus enzyme using online game Foldit, achieving results in just three weeks. The breakthrough could lead to the development of new anti-AIDS drugs by targeting specific features on the molecule.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 18, 2011

Autism, intellectual disabilities related to parental age, education and ethnicity, not income

A new study published in Autism Research found that parental age, maternal ethnicity, and paternal age are associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID), while household income has no significant link. The research also identified demographic risk factors such as male gender and...

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAutism Research·DateSep 16, 2011

Quantum behavior with a flash

Researchers develop a method using flashes of light to observe quantum features of large objects with unprecedented resolution. By analyzing the dynamics of such behavior, pulsed quantum optomechanics provides a path for investigating whether macroscopic mechanical objects can be used in future quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 16, 2011