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Understanding nutrition labels can lead to healthier eating

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed an activity called 'See it, Do it, Teach it' to help people understand nutrition labels and increase their calcium intake. The eight-week study showed that participants significantly increased their calcium consumption, getting closer to daily requirements.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateApr 7, 2004

'Shocking' research points to ways to protect technology

Researchers at the University of Toronto have identified patterns in electromagnetic fields caused by lightning strikes on tall structures, such as the CN Tower. This study provides crucial insights for designing protective measures, including enclosures for sensitive equipment and special diodes to prevent over-voltage.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Electrostatics·DateMar 16, 2004

Death rates for certain complex surgeries lower at teaching hospitals

A study found that teaching hospitals have lower operative mortality rates for pancreatic, hepatic, and esophageal resections. Higher volume at teaching hospitals is a contributing factor to these differences in outcomes. The findings suggest that hospital structure and process variables play a role in variation in surgical outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateFeb 9, 2004

University partnership boost for company

The project implemented a vision system to improve part inspection, introduced a computerised quality management system to enhance efficiency, and installed a co-ordinate measuring machine for fast measurements. These new systems have had wide-reaching benefits for the company, improving production processes and staff working conditions.

Teaching hospital physicians report trouble obtaining specialty services for the uninsured

A recent survey of US academic health centers found that physicians struggle to access specialty care for uninsured patients, with significant problems reported at both public and private hospitals. The study highlights the limitations of the nation's safety net and suggests broadening reimbursement funds as a possible solution.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 12, 2003

Sex in the soil

The nematode worm can alter its sex based on the perceived food availability, affecting the sex ratio. The research helps understand how animals adapt to variable environments and why sex exists.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScience·DateNov 6, 2003

Elementary schools need a lesson in bathroom breaks

A University of Iowa Health Care study found that public elementary school teachers often restrict young students' access to the bathroom, despite it being a common issue. Teachers with more experience were better equipped to recognize bladder problems and involved school nurses in addressing them.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateAug 11, 2003

Peering inside a blood vessel

Dr. Alan Wilman is developing a new MRI technique that provides highly detailed images of blood vessels, allowing doctors to diagnose conditions like heart attacks and strokes earlier. His goal is to create a safer and cheaper alternative that can help prevent deaths by aiding in early diagnosis.

Workplace violence in hospitals

One in five nurses experience multiple types of violence in a single shift period. The Broken Windows theory suggests that tolerating minor acts of aggression among hospital staff creates an environment conducive to more severe violence. Researchers aim to address this issue with a visible response to incidents.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalHealth Policy·DateFeb 28, 2003

Leaving hospital AMA

Patients who leave hospital against medical advice (AMA) are at a higher risk of being readmitted, with 21% likelihood compared to 3% for routine discharges. Readmissions often occur within the first 15 days after discharge.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 17, 2003

Do the ivory towers need ramps

A study by University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that disabled medical faculty often face significant challenges in their careers due to the lack of ramps and accommodations. The researchers believe that with limited changes in academic criteria and improved physical access, they can compete for promotions more successfully.