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Science News for March 21, 2018


Certain pain medications linked to increased heart risks

A recent study published in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found a significant link between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. The research highlights the importance of closely monitoring NSAID use for heart health, particularly among high-risk individuals.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateMar 21, 2018

Gradual release of immunotherapy at site of tumor surgery prevents tumors from returning

Researchers developed a new approach using biodegradable gels containing immune-stimulating drugs to deliver immunotherapy directly to the surgical site, preventing tumor recurrence and metastasis. The method showed promising results in mice with breast, lung, and melanoma tumors, offering hope for improving cancer treatment outcomes.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 21, 2018

Can a smartwatch detect irregular heartbeat?

A smartwatch coupled with a machine learning algorithm detected atrial fibrillation (AF) with high accuracy in patients undergoing treatment for AF. The study used data from 9,750 participants and found promising results for the use of commercially available smartwatches to detect AF.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 21, 2018

Learning to see

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed an artificial intelligence technique, AUTOMAP, that enables the production of high-quality images in less time and with lower doses. This approach uses deep learning to automatically determine the correct image reconstruction algorithm, allowing for instant feedback during scanning.

Design approach developed for important new catalysts for energy conversion and storage

Northwestern University researchers have discovered a new design approach for creating catalysts that can accelerate chemical reactions and processes, including clean energy conversion and storage. The method has the potential to impact various industries such as pharmaceuticals, optical data storage, and petroleum products.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2018

Seizures may be detected through sound

Researchers developed a novel method to detect ongoing seizures in comatose patients using brain waves converted to sound. The sonification of EEG provides a potential tool for quickly assessing patients with suspected subclinical seizures like nonconvulsive status epilepticus.

SourceWiley·JournalEpilepsia·DateMar 21, 2018

How trees coexist. New findings from biodiversity research published in Nature Communications

A study published in Nature Communications found that tree diversity and neighbourhood interactions significantly impact forest productivity, promoting more wood production and reducing soil erosion. By planting multiple native tree species at small spatial scales, afforestation programs can benefit from biodiversity conservation.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2018

Brain stethoscope listens for silent seizures

A new brain stethoscope technology has been developed that translates brain electrical activity into sounds, allowing medical professionals to detect silent seizures. Medical students and nurses were found to be remarkably accurate in identifying seizures with this tool, outperforming their traditional diagnostic abilities.

SourceStanford University·JournalEpilepsia·DateMar 21, 2018

Sweet surprise

Researchers studying cavefish found that they can live healthy lives with high blood sugar levels, contrary to what is seen in humans. The fish have insulin resistance but no apparent harm from chronically elevated glucose levels.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateMar 21, 2018

Cutting greenhouse gas emissions would help spare cities worldwide from rising seas

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions would significantly reduce sea level rise globally by the end of the century, especially for coastal cities on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Cities like New York, Boston, London, and others would see substantial benefits from emission reductions.

Do young children learn anything from YouTube videos?

A study of 55 Indian children aged 6-24 months found they were attracted to music and could identify themselves in videos at various stages. However, despite interacting with parents during smartphone viewing, the children did not learn anything from the YouTube clips.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 21, 2018

Conservation costs can be higher than bargained for

A new Michigan State University study reveals that participants in payments for ecosystem services programs may become conservation martyrs due to oversimplified payment models. The research highlights the importance of considering opportunity costs at the beginning and monitoring benefits over time to ensure participant well-being.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 21, 2018

Live 3-D printing of osteogenic scaffolds into bone defects

A team of researchers has successfully developed a novel method for live 3D printing osteogenic scaffolds into bone defects. The method uses nanobiosilica-based scaffolds with adequate 3D printing properties to improve implantability and rapid bone healing capability, resulting in nearly 55% bone defect healing after four weeks.

Hunting squid slowed by rising carbon levels

Scientists have found that high carbon dioxide levels cause squid to bungle attacks on their prey, leading to a 20% decrease in successful hunts. This effect is observed across two cephalopod orders, suggesting that many species may be impacted by rising CO2 levels in the oceans.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 21, 2018

Medicating for mental health

A University of Guelph study found that intense exercise before taking a daily dose of olanzapine can reduce the risk of weight gain and Type 2 diabetes. The researchers discovered that moderate exercise did not have the same effect, highlighting the importance of intense physical activity in mitigating medication side effects.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 2018

Islet transplantation improves QoL for people with hard-to-control type 1 diabetes

A Phase 3 clinical trial funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found consistent and dramatic improvements in quality of life among participants with type 1 diabetes who had frequent severe hypoglycemia. Islet recipients also reported better overall health status despite needing lifelong treatment.

Bioengineered tooth bud model functionalized with decellularized tooth bud ECM

Researchers created a 3D bioengineered tooth bud model using Gelatin Methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogel and postnatal dental stem cells. Decellularized tooth bud extracellular matrix (dTB ECM) was introduced to enhance dental stem cell differentiation, resulting in whole tooth structures upon in vivo implantation

Flood protection is everyone's responsibility

A mathematical economist has developed conceptual models to describe economic decisions for long-term flood protection strategies. The study highlights the importance of central government investment in infrastructure and private sector responsibility, with calculations showing that government investment is better than direct subsidies.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCentral European Journal of Operations Research·DateMar 21, 2018

Automated notification system improves follow-up of actionable tests pending at discharge

A new study by researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital demonstrates that implementing an automated notification system can improve the follow-up of actionable tests pending at discharge. The system significantly improved the time to documented action for these tests, with patients receiving follow-up on their results much faster.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 21, 2018

Study evaluates connection between drug, alcohol use and infant abdominal malformation

A study published in the Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine found a significant link between mother's alcohol use one month prior to or early in pregnancy and an increased risk of gastroschisis. The condition occurs when an infant's intestines form outside the abdomen, posing risks for other organ system anomalies.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·DateMar 21, 2018

Neglect common in English care homes

A recent study found that neglectful behaviors are widespread among English care home staff, despite efforts to provide person-centered care. The survey of 1,544 staff revealed that many witnessed residents being left waiting for care or having insufficient time for food.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 2018