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Science News for November 1, 2016


U-M study bodes well for low-carb eaters

A University of Michigan study found that low-carb meals significantly lower insulin resistance by over 30 percent within 24 hours, while high-carb meals sustain it. Exercise before meals also failed to lower insulin resistance, and may even increase blood sugar levels.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 1, 2016

Home is where the astronaut is

The study investigates changes in perceptions about home in space and the development of a unique culture among astronauts. Researchers found that a shared space culture can help crew members respond to different situations, reducing stress and improving morale.

Nanomaterials for neurology: State-of-the-art

Chronic neurodegenerative disorders are progressively altered brain cell functions, but nanotechnology offers a solution with bio-engineered systems that interact at a molecular level. Nanomedicine improves drug efficacy with sustained release, reduced toxicity and fewer side effects.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets·DateNov 1, 2016

Simple food additive slows E. coli poisoning

A team of researchers found that polysorbate 80, a safe food additive, can slow the toxic effects of E. coli poisoning by attacking its protective biofilm and rendering it harmless. This approach could provide an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics without driving antimicrobial resistance.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalBiofouling·DateNov 1, 2016

Rehabilitation services for trauma patients improve outcomes after hospital discharge

Trauma patients who receive intensive physical, occupational, and cognitive therapy at acute care inpatient rehabilitation facilities are more likely to go home and survive a year after discharge. The study found that these patients experienced significant improvements in functional outcome and had a lower risk of death after a year.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateNov 1, 2016

The dark side of 'junk' DNA

Scientists at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center found that certain short, repetitive DNA sequences contribute to the development of Ewing sarcoma by enhancing susceptibility to an oncoprotein. These sequences interact with histones in a way similar to stem cells, allowing the oncoprotein to change gene expression.

Cosmic connection

A team of scientists has discovered that human cells and neutron stars share similar structures, including Terasaki ramps, which are helical shapes connecting stacked sheets. The similarities between these two vastly different systems suggest a universal principle governing the energy of a system.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhysical Review C·DateNov 1, 2016

Scientists find cause of facial widening defects

The study reveals that the loss of cilia on facial cells impairs the function of developmental repressors, leading to increased Hedgehog signaling and facial widening. This discovery provides insights into the mechanisms of midfacial development and sheds light on the underlying causes of ciliopathies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 1, 2016

Women have a remarkable variety of orgasmic experiences

A new review by Concordia research reveals that women can experience orgasms through multiple sensory inputs, including the external clitoris, internal vagina, and non-genital areas. The study challenges traditional notions of a single 'whole' orgasm and highlights the diversity of female arousal experiences.

SourceConcordia University·JournalSocioaffective Neuroscience & Psychology·DateNov 1, 2016

OPTIMISTIC study: Advance care planning in nursing homes challenging but critical

A new study highlights the importance of advance care planning in nursing homes, where most residents prefer less aggressive treatment and comfort care over life-extending measures. The study found that formal conversations facilitated by specially trained nurses resulted in changes to care plans about two-thirds of the time.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 1, 2016

Research review confirms positive school climates can narrow achievement gaps

A comprehensive analysis of research published since 2000 found that schools with positive climates can narrow achievement gaps among students of different socioeconomic backgrounds. The study suggests that by promoting a positive climate, schools can decrease socioeconomic inequalities and enable more social mobility.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalReview of Educational Research·DateNov 1, 2016

Short RNA molecules mapped in single cell

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have measured the absolute numbers of short, non-coding, RNA sequences in individual embryonic stem cells, revealing their precise function. The new method could lead to improved IVF treatments by identifying embryos with the best chance of development.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 1, 2016

Patient safety benefits when hospitals provide feedback to staff who report errors

A St. Jude Children's Research Hospital analysis found that providing feedback to staff who report errors is crucial for improving patient safety. The study, published in the Journal of Patient Safety, suggests that hospitals should focus on informing staff about how their previous reports have helped enhance patient care.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Patient Safety·DateNov 1, 2016

The Lancet: Most breast and cervical cancer deaths occur in developing countries, yet many could be prevented with cost-effective interventions

A new series published in The Lancet highlights the need for international efforts to end preventable deaths from breast and cervical cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Cost-effective interventions, such as routine HPV vaccination and cervical screening, can significantly reduce mortality rates if implemented.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 1, 2016

Anesthesia sedation practices for patients in the pediatric congenital cardiac cath lab

The new expert consensus statement provides recommendations for patient monitoring and sedation administration during pediatric cardiac catheterization procedures. Key findings highlight the need for standardized practices to minimize anesthesia-related morbidity and mortality in patients with congenital heart disease.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateNov 1, 2016

Is shotgun marriage dead?

Research from Duke University finds shotgun marriages increasing among certain groups of women, including young mothers and those with less education. The study suggests that shotgun marriages are not as unstable as thought, with divorce rates comparable to other marriages.

SourceDuke University·JournalDemography·DateNov 1, 2016