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Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 30


Page 30 of 32

New tool uses UV light to control inflammation

Researchers at Cornell University developed a chemical tool that controls inflammation using UV light, allowing for targeted therapy with minimal side effects. The method has potential applications in treating inflammatory diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceCornell University·JournalChemical Science·DateDec 2, 2016

Fast, efficient sperm tails inspire nanobiotechnology

Scientists at Cornell University developed a system where enzymes are attached to nanoparticles to mimic the efficient energy-producing mechanism of sperm tails. The tethered enzyme system processes glucose to lactate more efficiently than free-floating enzymes, with potential applications in powering devices that carry out various jobs.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 2, 2016

Breaking the backbone

Researchers have developed a method to produce degradable polymers through chemical vapor deposition (CVD), allowing for the creation of biodegradable implants and coatings. The new polymers can be tailored to degrade at specific rates, making them suitable for various medical applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 1, 2016

Single dose of hallucinogenic drug psilocybin relieves anxiety and depression in patients with advanced cancer

A clinical trial led by NYU Langone Health found that psilocybin significantly reduces mental anguish in distressed cancer patients for months. The study showed that one-time treatment with psilocybin quickly brought relief from distress that then lasted for over six months in 80% of the participants.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateDec 1, 2016

Four weeks to prepare cancer patients for surgery

A four-week prehabilitation program has shown promising results in preparing cancer patients for surgery by improving their physical fitness and reducing recovery time. The study involved 116 colorectal cancer patients who underwent the program before undergoing surgery.

SourceMcGill University·JournalSupportive Care in Cancer·DateDec 1, 2016

New in the Hastings Center Report

The Hastings Center Report examines the ethics of crowdfunding for medical care, citing concerns over fraud, misinformation, and health inequities. The article proposes reducing the number of clinical trials to improve their quality and provide evidence-based decision-making.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateDec 1, 2016

Antibody test gauges mosquito exposure

Researchers developed a blood test to assess human exposure to Aedes mosquitoes by measuring antibodies against one individual peptide from Aedes saliva. The test showed decreased human exposure to mosquito bites after a vector control program, with 88% of people having a positive antibody reaction before the intervention.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateDec 1, 2016

Plasma-zapping process could yield trans fat-free soybean oil product

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a hydrogenation process that uses high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) to solidify soybean oil for food processing without creating trans fats. The new process is more efficient and environmentally friendly, with the potential to produce safe plant oils on a large scale.

SourcePurdue University·JournalInnovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies·DateDec 1, 2016