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Science News Archive November 2016 - Page 37


Page 37 of 38

WHO Trauma Care Checklist improves care for injured patients

A new study shows that implementing the WHO Trauma Care Checklist Programme at hospitals worldwide led to substantial improvements in injury care, with increased consistency of care and reduced mortality among severely injured patients. The checklist is a simple tool emphasizing key life-saving elements of initial injury care.

SourceSpringer·JournalWorld Journal of Surgery·DateNov 2, 2016

Making high-performance batteries from junkyard scraps

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a steel-brass battery that can store energy comparable to lead-acid batteries and charge/dischcharge at rates comparable to ultra-fast charging supercapacitors. The secret lies in anodization, a common chemical treatment used to give aluminum a durable finish.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateNov 2, 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