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Science News Archive 2013 - Page 36


Page 36 of 352

'Undruggable' mutation meets its match

A team of scientists at the University of California, San Francisco has identified a previously unknown pocket on the K-Ras protein that can be targeted by a new compound. This compound inhibits only mutant K-Ras and leaves normal protein untouched, offering real translational implications for cancer patients.

Involving patients in their nurses' shift change reduces medical errors and satisfies patients

Research at St. Michael's Hospital found that bedside handover, where patients are involved in the transfer of accountability with their care team, can reduce potential errors and improve patient engagement. The study also showed that this approach increases patient safety, satisfaction, and better informs care plans.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Nursing Care Quality·DateNov 20, 2013

Coffee may help perk up your blood vessels

A study of 27 healthy adults showed that drinking caffeinated coffee significantly improved blood flow in a finger, with a 30% increase compared to decaffeinated coffee. The researchers suggest that caffeine may help open blood vessels and reduce inflammation, providing new insights into how coffee may benefit cardiovascular health.

Insomnia linked to mortality risk

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital found a link between insomnia symptoms and higher mortality risk in men, particularly those with difficulty falling asleep and non-restorative sleep. The study, published online in Circulation, followed over 23,000 men for six years and found modest increases in cardiovascular-related death.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalCirculation·DateNov 20, 2013

New research gives clues of antibiotic use and resistance in US children's hospitals

Researchers found that surgical patients in US children's hospitals account for 43% of all antibiotic use, with pneumonia, appendicitis, cystic fibrosis, and skin infections being high-usage conditions. The studies provide insights into antibiotic resistance patterns and opportunities for targeted antimicrobial stewardship efforts.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateNov 20, 2013

Mount Sinai finds brain abnormalities linked to impaired self-awareness in cocaine addiction

Researchers at Mount Sinai found long-term cocaine abuse linked to deficits in parts of the brain monitoring behavior, suggesting targeted treatments based on quantifiable biological abnormalities. The study's findings challenge clinical assumptions about addicted individuals' motivations and behaviors.

Focusing on faces

Researchers found specific neurons in the amygdala of autistic individuals respond differently to faces, with reduced processing of the eye region compared to control-group individuals. These neurons also responded more strongly to mouths than eyes, shedding light on abnormal face processing in autism.

Breakthrough in adult heart repair

Researchers have made a significant discovery in adult heart repair by identifying the Hippo pathway as a key regulator of cardiomyocyte proliferation. This breakthrough has the potential to improve heart function after a heart attack and reduce the severity of heart disease.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDevelopment·DateNov 19, 2013