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Science News Archive March 2015 - Page 3


Page 3 of 38

Study debunks common misconception that urine is sterile

Researchers from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine found bacteria in the bladders of healthy women, contradicting the long-held belief that normal urine is sterile. This discovery has significant implications for understanding bladder health and disease, particularly lower urinary tract disorders.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalEuropean Urology·DateMar 30, 2015

How DNA alarm-system works

A new study by Lomonosov Moscow State University researchers clarifies the DNA alarm-system, which detects single-strand breaks and activates kinase ATM to signal repair. This system prevents cancer-causing mutations and cell death.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2015

New drug stalls estrogen receptor-positive cancer cell growth and shrinks tumors

Researchers have developed an experimental drug, BHPI, that rapidly shrinks most tumors in a mouse model of human breast cancer. The drug works by hyperactivating the unfolded protein response pathway, driving cancer cells from using it for protection into making it a lethal pathway.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2015

Clues to aging from long-lived lemurs

Dwarf lemurs' ability to put their bodies in standby mode, known as torpor, correlates with increased longevity. Hibernating lemurs live up to ten years longer than non-hibernators, staying healthier and reproducing for a longer period.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateMar 30, 2015

Cats relax to the sound of music

Researchers found that cats undergoing surgery benefit from classical music, particularly George Handel compositions, which reduce respiratory rate and pupil diameter. The study suggests using calming music in surgical environments could decrease anaesthetic doses and promote patient safety.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateMar 30, 2015

To statin or not to statin?

A Johns Hopkins report provides clinicians with concrete tips to help patients decide whether to take statins, balancing benefits and risks. The report emphasizes the importance of individualized advice, clear explanation of benefits and risks, and shared decision-making.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 30, 2015

Study shows short & long-term cost-savings associated with minimally invasive surgery

A study by University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center found that laparoscopic colectomy procedures resulted in $6,689 lower costs compared to open surgery, with patients experiencing fewer days of health care utilization. The study also showed a significant difference in healthcare expenditures and patient workdays after the procedure.