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Science News Archive June 2014 - Page 31


Page 31 of 33

Climate change at the movies

Researchers found that climate change films often perpetuate limiting identity politics, reinforcing racial, gender, and sexual stereotypes. The study suggests that dominant representations in these films fail to align with key sustainable development goals of equity, freedom, and shared responsibility.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Development·DateJun 3, 2014

Modeling and simulation in the big data era

The big data era presents both challenges and opportunities for modeling and simulation, as it requires adapting to novel research thinking and methods. The paper highlights the need for exploratory research combining simulation-based engineering and science to develop a new simulation paradigm.

Reduced neurosurgical resident hours: No significant positive effect on patient outcomes

A study analyzing hospital-based data found no significant changes in patient outcomes after duty hour restrictions were implemented for neurosurgery residents. The researchers examined data from 2000-2002 and 2004-2006, comparing outcomes before and after the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) mandate.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateJun 3, 2014

Toxic computer waste in the developing world

India's population of 1.3 billion will generate over 900 million notebook computers past their life expectancy by 2025, highlighting the need for effective e-waste recycling infrastructure. The study estimates that over a billion PCs will be obsolete by 2020, posing significant risks to human health and the environment.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Science and Technology·DateJun 3, 2014

Fatty liver disease prevented in mice

Scientists discovered that blocking GLUT8, a molecule carrying large amounts of fructose into liver cells, prevents fatty livers in mice. The study suggests the liver acts as a sink for processing fructose, potentially harming overall metabolic syndrome.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 3, 2014

Common cholesterol drug greatly alters inflammatory response to common cold

Researchers discovered that statins can alter the inflammatory response to rhinovirus, a common cause of the cold, in individuals with asthma. This finding suggests that statins may help prevent or reduce asthma symptoms resulting from colds, and could lead to further research into novel asthma control strategies.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJun 2, 2014

CU Denver study shows public health often ignored in transportation policy

A CU Denver study reveals that major roads built through lower-income neighborhoods often neglect public health issues, including air pollution and crime. The study's author emphasizes the importance of incorporating public health into transportation planning to minimize hazards and create healthier environments.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·DateJun 2, 2014

Surgeons report fewer postoperative blood clots using risk-based preventive measures

A standardized prevention program implemented in a hospital department of surgery significantly reduced the rate of deep venous thromboses (DVT) and pulmonary emboli among patients. The program, which scored individual risk factors and provided risk-based prophylaxis, led to an 84% drop in DVT rates and a 55% decrease in pulmonary emboli.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJun 2, 2014

The quest for the bionic arm

Researchers are working on bionic arms with full motor and sensory function to treat veterans with upper extremity amputations. While advancements have been made, challenges remain in creating prostheses that meet the abilities of a human arm and hand.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJun 2, 2014

JCI online ahead of print table of contents for June 2, 2014

Researchers discover that mucin concentration in cystic fibrosis airway secretions contributes to decreased mucus clearance and promotes lung infection and inflammation. Meanwhile, an aptamer-based strategy delivers a specific siRNA to tumor cells and Tregs, reducing STAT3 expression and promoting anti-tumor responses.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 2, 2014

Speaking 2 languages benefits the aging brain

A recent study published in Annals of Neurology found that individuals who speak two or more languages may experience slower cognitive decline and improved cognitive abilities later in life. The research controlled for childhood intelligence and showed a significant impact on general intelligence, reading, and other cognitive functions.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJun 2, 2014

Same face, many first impressions

Researchers found that slight variations in facial expressions can lead to varied first impressions, challenging the assumption that face images accurately represent an individual's personality. The study suggests that online images can have unintended consequences on how others perceive us.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 2, 2014

No sign of 'obesity paradox' in obese patients with stroke

Researchers investigated whether obese patients with stroke experienced a 'weight loss paradox', where heavier individuals have better outcomes than expected. The study found no such correlation, contradicting previous hypotheses on the topic. Obesity status did not affect stroke mortality rates in this cohort.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateJun 2, 2014

Preventive services by medical and dental providers and treatment outcomes

A retrospective study found that children receiving non-dental primary care provider visits had lower tooth decay treatment rates and payments compared to those visiting dentists alone. The study suggests that preventive oral health services provided by non-dental providers may lead to a greater reduction in tooth decay treatment.