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Science News for March 23, 2018


Diagnosing breast cancer using red light

The new instrument increases the sensitivity of optical mammography by up to 1000-fold, allowing for earlier detection of breast cancer. This advancement offers a safer and more gentle alternative to traditional X-ray imaging, which is often limited by patient age, weight, or other factors.

SourceOptica·DateMar 23, 2018

Older adults who have slower walking speeds may have increased risk for dementia

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults with slower walking speeds may be at increased risk for developing dementia. The research examined data from nearly 4,000 participants and discovered a strong link between slower walking speed and higher risk of dementia.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 23, 2018

Helping older adults discontinue using sedatives

A pilot study found that an educational brochure and support from healthcare personnel helped 64% of hospitalized older adults stop taking sedatives. Participants reported no significant change in sleep problems after stopping sedatives, highlighting the potential benefits of reducing polypharmacy.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 23, 2018

Opioid prescribing patterns of oral and maxillofacial surgeons: A nationwide survey

A nationwide survey found that oral and maxillofacial surgeons prescribed more opioids after hydrocodone-containing products were rescheduled in 2014. The study also showed a significant reduction in phone calls requesting refill authorizations after switching to more potent pain medications.

Dental oral craniofacial tissue regeneration consortia: A new paradigm

The National Institutes of Health (NIDCR) established the DOCTRC Program to develop resources and strategies for regenerating dental, oral, and craniofacial tissues. Two national resource centers were established: The Michigan-Pittsburgh-Wyss Resource Center and the Center for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Tissue and Organ Regeneration.

For patients with drug-resistant infections, infectious diseases experts may be lifesaving

A study published in Open Forum Infectious Diseases found that patients with drug-resistant infections who received consultation from ID specialists had a 50% lower 30-day mortality rate. ID consultation was also associated with reduced mortality and hospital readmissions for certain types of resistant bacteria.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMar 23, 2018

Is knee pain linked to depression?

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that knee pain is associated with an increased risk of depression in older adults. The research team developed a new screening tool based on questions about knee pain at night, which may help identify individuals at risk for developing depressive symptoms.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 23, 2018

Exposed: The path of ransomware payments

Researchers tracked ransomware payments over two years to identify patterns and key findings. South Koreans are disproportionately impacted, with $2.5 million of ransomware payments made within the country. The study also found that most ransomware operators use a Russian Bitcoin exchange, BTC-E, to convert bitcoin to fiat currencies.

New innovations in cell-free biotechnology

A Northwestern University-led team has developed a new way to manufacture proteins outside of a cell, which could have important implications for therapeutics and biomaterials. The team successfully produced high yields of proteins with non-canonical amino acids, opening up possibilities for decentralized manufacturing and distribution...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2018

Investigating the enigmatic link between periodontal inflammation and retinal degeneration

Research investigates the link between chronic periodontitis and age-related macular degeneration, finding a common oral pathobiont, Porphyromonas gingivalis, that can invade human retinal-pigment epithelial cells. The study reveals significant molecular links between CP and AMD.

More people miss NHS appointments when the clocks go forward

Research finds that people are 5% more likely to miss NHS hospital outpatient appointments following the clock change in spring. The study, published in Chronobiology International, analyzed over 2 million appointments in Scotland from 2005 to 2010, revealing a significant increase in missed appointments after the clocks go forward.

SourceLancaster University·JournalChronobiology International·DateMar 23, 2018

A new laser source for infrared chemical imaging

Researchers at Université de Limoges developed a compact, optical fibre-based laser source that rivals synchrotron facilities in performing infrared spectromicroscopy. This breakthrough enables accurate chemical imaging of biological tissues with high precision, paving the way for early cancer diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversité de Limoges·JournalOptica·DateMar 23, 2018