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Science News Archive March 2019 - Page 22


Page 22 of 43

Low-risk patients may benefit from less invasive transcatheter valve replacement

A new study suggests that minimally invasive transcatheter valve replacement is a safe and effective therapy for healthier patients at low surgical risk. Patients treated with TAVR had lower incidence of disabling stroke, bleeding complications, and atrial fibrillation, but slightly higher moderate aortic regurgitation.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 18, 2019
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Evidence for ancient magnetic sense in humans

A recent study suggests humans possess an ancient magnetic sense, as their brains respond to changes in the Earth's magnetic field. The research used electroencephalography to record brain activity during magnetic field manipulations, revealing a decrease in alpha-band brain activity in some participants.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateMar 18, 2019

Breastfeeding can erase effects of prenatal violence for newborns

A study by Laura Miller-Graff found that breastfeeding for six weeks can protect infants from the negative effects of prenatal intimate partner violence. This protective effect was observed in low-income women who experienced IPV during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateMar 18, 2019

New record: Over 16 percent efficiency for single-junction organic solar cells

Researchers have achieved a remarkable power conversion efficiency of over 16 percent for single-junction organic solar cells. The breakthrough is attributed to the use of a newly designed wide-bandgap polymer P2F-EHp with an appropriate HOMO energy level, which enables optimal morphology and complementary absorption profile.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateMar 18, 2019

Surgery using ultrasound energy found to treat high blood pressure

A one-off operation targeting kidney nerves successfully maintains reduced blood pressure in hypertension patients, with fewer medication requirements. The procedure, known as renal denervation, was found to be effective in controlling blood pressure without long-term safety concerns.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalCirculation·DateMar 18, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Where are teens getting their electronic cigarettes?

Daily teen e-cigarette users are more likely to purchase from commercial sources like drug stores and vape shops, while non-daily users turn to friends and family. The study suggests restricting e-cigarette sales and informing parents about online purchases to prevent adolescent access.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateMar 18, 2019

Research into aphasia reveals new interactions between language and thought

Researchers investigated factive and counterfactive constructions in aphasia, finding that individuals with aphasia performed similarly well on factive interpretation tests but struggled with counterfactive ones. The study highlights the relationship between language, cognition, and propositional thought in aphasia.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJournal of Neurolinguistics·DateMar 18, 2019

Seafood mislabeling rate less than 1 percent for products with MSC ecolabel vs. global average of 30 percent

A recent study found that more than 1400 Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) labeled products showed less than 1% species mislabeling rate, significantly lower than the global average of 30%. The study suggests that the MSC's ecolabeling and Chain of Custody program is an effective deterrent for deliberate species substitution and fraud.

SourceMarine Stewardship Council·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 18, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Pure omega-3 prescription drug markedly reduces first, repeat and total CV events

A new study shows that a 4 gram dose of icosapent ethyl significantly reduces the occurrence of ischemic events, including heart attacks, strokes, and related deaths. The drug also prevents subsequent cardiovascular events and may be a cost-effective way to prevent CV complications in patients with elevated triglycerides.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2019

Lowering blood pressure prevents worsening brain damage in elderly

A new study found that keeping blood pressure around 130 mm Hg for three years significantly reduced the accumulation of harmful brain lesions compared to maintaining a higher systolic blood pressure. This reduction also led to fewer major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2019

Jawbone reconstruction with 3D-printed bioreactors

Researchers reconstructed jawbones in sheep using 3D printed bioreactors filled with autologous bone or synthetic graft. The bioreactors aided the growth and harvesting of bony tissue, successfully repairing five out of six sheep's jawbones.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2019

Most teens report using marijuana less often after legalization

A recent study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that teen marijuana use decreased significantly after legalization in Washington state. High school seniors who work more than 11 hours per week were more likely to report using marijuana, highlighting the need for employers to enforce zero-tolerance policies and ensure...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateMar 18, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

TAVR as good as surgery for patients at low surgical risk

A new trial found TAVR to be equal to or better than open-heart surgery for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are considered low surgical risk. The study showed that TAVR was associated with lower rates of disabling stroke and death from any cause, as well as improved quality of life and hemodynamics.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 18, 2019

Helping physio students get to grips with complex motor skills

A new tool, SpinalLog, is being used at the University of Melbourne to help physiotherapy students master complex fine motor skills. The device provides real-time visual feedback on pressure patterns and technique used to mobilise the spine, improving students' ability to replicate force patterns.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·DateMar 18, 2019

Tilt training prevents fainting

A new study by the European Society of Cardiology found that tilt training can significantly reduce the frequency of fainting episodes in patients with recurrent syncope. The program improved cardiovascular function and reduced worry, fear and frustration related to fainting.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Virtual reality could improve your balance, study finds

A new study by Lund University found that virtual reality can help individuals with long-term dizziness shift their reliance from vision to other senses for better balance. The study showed differences in how men and women are affected by VR, with more women needing additional practice to master this skill.

SourceLund University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 18, 2019

New perspective on changing travel conditions in Arctic communities

A new study finds that Inuit communities' regional knowledge and travel skills have helped reduce the effects of Arctic climate change on trail access. Despite significant changes in climate-related conditions, overall trail access has changed by only one or two days over the past 30 years.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 18, 2019

Origins of forelimb diversity in mammals

Researchers found that forelimb diversity increased around 270 million years ago with the emergence of Permian therapsids. This increase may have allowed for new forelimb functions and enhanced locomotion capabilities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2019

Scientists identify compounds in coffee which may inhibit prostate cancer

Scientists have identified two coffee compounds, kahweol acetate and cafestol, which inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells in cell culture and animal models. The study's findings suggest that these compounds may be used to treat drug-resistant prostate cancer, with further investigation needed.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·JournalThe Prostate·DateMar 17, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Depression screening does not impact quality of life after heart attack

Researchers found that systematic depression screening after a heart attack did not impact patients' quality of life. Depression was identified in about 7% of screened patients, and interventions such as medication, phone-based psychotherapy sessions, or a combination both were shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 17, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Fast-acting agent shows promise in reversing effects of ticagrelor

Researchers developed PB2452, a monoclonal antibody fragment that reverses ticagrelor's antiplatelet effects within five minutes and sustains reversal for over 20 hours. The study found immediate and sustained reversal of ticagrelor's effects, with no serious adverse events or infusion reactions.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2019

TAVR outperforms surgery in younger, low risk patients with AS

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) significantly reduces the primary endpoint of death, stroke, and re-hospitalizations in patients with severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis at low surgical risk. TAVR also shows lower rates of mortality, stroke, and repeat hospitalizations compared to surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2019

World's oldest semen still viable

Scientists at University of Sydney have successfully used 50-year-old ram sperm to impregnate 34 Merino ewes, demonstrating the viability of long-term frozen storage. The resulting live birth rate was comparable to that of recently frozen semen.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·DateMar 17, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Transcatheter valve replacement safe in those with unusual valve anatomy

A new study suggests that transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a safe and effective option for patients with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis, particularly those at intermediate or high risk for open heart surgery. While patients with a bicuspid valve had a higher risk of stroke after TAVR, the overall mortality rate was simi...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 17, 2019

Expansion of transposable elements offers clue to genetic paradox

A recent study reveals that transposable element insertions drive rapid phenotypic variation in plants, enabling them to adapt to novel environments. Researchers found that transposable elements are enriched in the gene promoter regions of a plant species with limited genetic variation, associated with changes in gene expression.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2019

New cardiac pump clinically superior, safer for patients

The final results of MOMENTUM 3 show that the HeartMate 3 left-ventricular assist device markedly reduced re-operation due to pump malfunctions, lowering risk of bleeding events and strokes. The study found significant reductions in pump-related thrombosis, strokes and mucosal bleeding compared to the previous generation of cardiac pumps.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Study suggests painkillers taken during pregnancy not a cause of asthma in kids

A study of nearly 500,000 women found that taking paracetamol or other painkillers during pregnancy increases the risk of asthma in children, but the risk is similar when other types of painkillers are used. The research suggests that another factor linked to painkiller use and asthma risk may be chronic pain and stress.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateMar 17, 2019

Low-risk patients benefit from minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Results from the PARTNER 3 trial demonstrate that low-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis can significantly benefit from minimally invasive TAVR, leading to shorter recovery times and lower complication rates. This groundbreaking procedure has the potential to transform treatment options for patients with heart disease.

SourceNorthwestern Memorial HealthCare·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2019

Prevention of alcohol use in older teens

A randomized trial of Smart Choices 4 Teens, an online family prevention program, found significant reductions in teen alcohol use and related problems. The program decreased drinking days, amount consumed, and parent-teen communication about social host laws.

SourcePacific Institute for Research and Evaluation·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateMar 17, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Abnormal heart rhythm detected by smartwatch: What does it mean?

A large-scale study using a smartwatch app to detect atrial fibrillation found the detection rate was about 0.2% among over 400,000 participants. European experts discuss the implications of this technology, citing concerns about anxiety, legal issues, and readiness for implementation.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateMar 16, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Testosterone slows prostate cancer recurrence in low-risk patients

Researchers have found that testosterone replacement therapy reduces prostate cancer recurrence in low-risk patients by nearly three-fold over three years. This study challenges the long-held notion that testosterone promotes prostate cancer and suggests a potential new treatment approach for these patients.

SourceEuropean Association of Urology·DateMar 16, 2019
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

In study, TAVR is superior to surgery for low-risk patients with aortic valve stenosis

In the multicenter clinical trial, TAVR showed superiority to open-heart surgery in low-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis. One-year mortality rates were significantly lower with TAVR, with 42 deaths vs 68 in the surgical group. The study also found shorter hospital stays and fewer strokes for TAVR patients.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 16, 2019

What is the real link between bacterial vaginosis and HIV risk in women?

Researchers explore link between bacterial vaginosis and HIV transmission in women, highlighting importance of standardized diagnosis and testing. The study aims to standardize discussions around BV clinical and research findings, shedding light on the microbial make-up of the vagina and its impact on HIV acquisition.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateMar 15, 2019

NASA sees development of Tropical Depression 03W near Yap

Tropical Depression 03W has formed near the island of Yap in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean. The storm is expected to maintain its general course and speed through the weekend, passing close to Koror on Sunday. Maximum sustained winds remain at 30 mph, with damaging winds expected on the north side of the storm.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 15, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Opioid prescribing across the United States

This analysis of US outpatient prescribing records reveals a two-to-three-fold variation in opioid prescribing metrics among states, with significant implications for policy and public health. Researchers suggest that this data can inform state-specific laws, policies, and interventions to address opioid-related problems.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 15, 2019