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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 418


Page 418 of 512

Genetic test could pick out 'ultra high risk' bone marrow cancer patients

A new genetic test can identify patients with multiple myeloma who are at 'ultra high risk' of their cancer progressing aggressively early on. These patients have poorer survival rates and are unlikely to benefit from lenalidomide alone, highlighting the need for alternative treatment approaches.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalLeukemia·DateMar 10, 2020

Feeding wildlife can disrupt animal social structures

Researchers observed that male macaques were more likely to interact with humans for food rewards, disrupting normal social behaviors and reducing opportunities for positive interactions such as grooming. This disruption can have detrimental effects on the monkeys' health, life span, reproductive success, and infant survival.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 10, 2020

Education the key to equal parenting rights for same-sex couples

A study found that educating people about the impact of same-sex parenting on children reduces prejudices and misconceptions. However, legal issues persist due to a lack of inclusive marriage policies, which can affect same-sex families in separation cases.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAustralian Journal of Psychology·DateMar 10, 2020

Modern virtual and augmented reality device can help simulate sight loss

Researchers from City, University of London developed a software tool to simulate glaucoma's impact on daily life, using commercially available head-mounted displays (HMDs). The study found that participants with simulated visual impairment performed tasks slower and made more movements compared to those without impairment.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Grad student names new treehopper species after Lady Gaga

A graduate student at the University of Illinois has discovered a new treehopper species named after Lady Gaga, showcasing the diversity of this bug group. The newly identified species, Kaikaia gaga, features unusual characteristics, including horned thoraxes and leg hairs, which differentiate it from other treehoppers.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalZootaxa·DateMar 10, 2020

Arming the body's immune cells

Researchers at UC have discovered a mechanism that could lead to new immunotherapies for patients with head and neck cancers. By understanding how calmodulin interacts with ion channels in immune cells, scientists may be able to develop new treatments to restore the ability of these cells to enter and kill tumors.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·DateMar 10, 2020

Disease-causing virus manipulates crop plants to favor its vector

The disease-causing virus BYDV manipulates its host plant and aphid vector to create warmer regions for feeding, increasing the vector's heat tolerance. This allows certain aphids to thrive in warmer conditions, posing implications for crop health as the global climate warms.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

Some domesticated plants ignore beneficial soil microbes

Researchers found that domestication of crops led to a decline in their ability to form symbiotic relationships with beneficial soil microbes. This loss has negative environmental consequences, including increased fertilizer use and pollution. Reintroducing genes from wild relatives could help restore these traits.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 10, 2020

IKBFU physicists keep improving 'smart' composites for biomedical sensors

Researchers successfully tested a new magnetic micro wire-based concept for 'smart' composite production, creating multiferroic-class materials with controlled magnetic and electric properties. The new composites are expected to enable the development of highly sensitive sensors for health monitoring devices.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalMaterials·DateMar 10, 2020

Toxic masculinity is unsafe...for men

A Michigan State University study found that toxic masculinity can lead to social isolation among aging men, negatively affecting their health and well-being. The researchers suggest an alternative understanding of masculinity can help alleviate social isolation.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSex Roles·DateMar 10, 2020

Cancerous tumors, surrounding cells illuminated by new imaging agent

A new imaging agent has been developed to identify cancer cells and their supporting compromised cells. The compound binds to activated annexin A2 protein present in many solid tumors, allowing for targeted imaging and potential dual targeting of the tumor and surrounding cells with chemotherapy drugs.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMar 10, 2020

How plants protect themselves from sun damage

A new study reveals that plants transfer excess energy from chlorophyll to carotenoids, which release it as heat, preventing photodamage. This discovery could help scientists develop new ways to improve crop yields by understanding the natural photoprotection system of plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

Tracking down false parkers in cancer cells

A research team led by University of Würzburg scientists has found a way to inactivate the cancer protein NP63, which is crucial for squamous cell carcinoma growth. By using a preclinical inhibitor, they were able to switch off NP63's parking ticket remover and stop tumor cells from growing.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Columbia study evaluates cervical cancer risks of IUDs

A Columbia study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that patients using copper intrauterine devices (Cu IUDs) had a lower risk of high-grade cervical neoplasms compared to those using levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (LNG-IUS). The study analyzed data from over 10,000 patients and found the diagnosis rate of high-g...

SourceData Science Institute at Columbia·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 10, 2020

Routine childhood vaccination linked to improved schooling among adults in India

A study of 109,908 non-migrant individuals found that routine childhood vaccination was associated with 0.2-0.3 additional schooling grades among adults, a significant link across socioeconomic and demographic factors. The finding supports the long-term benefits of vaccines beyond health outcomes.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Higher concentrations of IGF-1 are a probable cause of breast cancer

New research suggests that higher concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) may be a probable cause of breast cancer. Studies found an association between IGF-1 and breast cancer development, with higher levels linked to increased risk. The findings support a causal role of the IGF pathway in breast cancer development.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateMar 10, 2020

Tomosynthesis outperforms digital mammography in five-year study

A new study published in Radiology found that digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) improved cancer detection rates and reduced false positives compared to digital mammography (DM). DBT screening detected a higher proportion of poor prognosis cancers than DM, with better visualization of lesions and reduced tissue superimposition.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 10, 2020

Knowing more about a virus threat may not satisfy you

A recent study on Zika virus found that individuals who thought they knew more about the threat were actually more likely to feel uncertain and anxious. The researchers suggest that public health agencies should focus on providing ongoing updates and shaping messages that encourage people to stay informed, as uncertainty can fuel fears...

SourceOhio State University·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 10, 2020

Crosstalk captured between muscles, neural networks in biohybrid machines

Researchers developed a platform to coculture neurons and muscle cells, capturing the emergence of neuromuscular junctions and synchronized bursting patterns. The study provides new insights into biohybrid machines and their potential applications in fields like intelligent drug delivery and environment sensing.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateMar 10, 2020

First-ever analysis of video recorded CPR improves resuscitation outcomes in emergency departments

Researchers developed a novel approach called MTV-CPR to video record and review CPR practices, leading to improved survivorship rates for cardiac arrest patients. The study found that the use of video recording and team-focused strategy increased the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) rate from 26% to 41%.

SourceNorthwell Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMar 10, 2020

Community factors influence how long you'll live, study shows

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that communities with more fast food restaurants, higher population density, and jobs in the extraction industry have shorter life expectancies. Conversely, areas with growing populations, good access to physicians, and high social cohesion tend to have longer lifespans.

SourcePenn State·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 10, 2020

Approximating a kernel of truth

By using approximations instead of explicit kernels, researchers have accelerated machine learning speeds and improved AI's ability to handle large datasets. The new approach uses statistics to derive a nearly accurate kernel that can be computed much faster than traditional methods.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·DateMar 10, 2020

Common feed ingredient tested safe in bulls

Researchers found that bulls fed distillers grains had higher sperm quality and greater body weight, but no significant difference in body fat. The study suggests that distillers grains can be safely used in bull development rations, with minimal impact on reproductive health.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalTranslational Animal Science·DateMar 10, 2020

Young sugarcane workers at high risk of kidney function decline

Researchers found that young, first-time sugarcane workers with even slightly lower than average kidney function were at a greater risk for rapid onset of kidney injury. The study highlights the importance of routine blood pressure and renal function screenings for workers in high-risk occupations.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 10, 2020

Amazon rainforest could be gone within a lifetime

The Amazon rainforest could disappear within a lifetime if a tipping point is reached, according to new research. Ecosystems dominated by single species are more stable and take longer to shift, while the loss of key species like elephants can trigger rapid changes.

SourceBangor University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

New research shows children and teens worry about political issues

A new study reveals that children and teenagers worry about political issues, with concerns spanning environmental issues, gun violence, and racial/ethnic minorities. While the worry may not be harmful in moderation, caregivers of youth with anxiety disorders should be aware of its potential impact.

SourceAmerican University·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateMar 10, 2020

Leaving your baby to 'cry it out' has no adverse effects on child development

Researchers at the University of Warwick found that leaving babies to 'cry it out' does not affect their behavior or attachment, but may actually help them learn self-regulation and reduce crying duration. Parents who adapt to their baby's needs and wait before intervening can provide a safe space for their child to develop.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 2020

Paper sheds light on infant universe and origin of matter

Researchers at IAS and University of Michigan propose QCD axion as solution to cosmological excess of matter over antimatter. The QCD axion could explain three missing pieces of physics puzzle, including the strong CP problem and dark matter.

SourceInstitute for Advanced Study·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

Low-dose chest CT leaves DNA intact

A study found that low-dose chest CT scans used for lung cancer screening do not cause significant DNA damage or chromosome aberrations. The results suggest that the risks of low-dose CT are minimal, and it can be used for lung cancer screening.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 10, 2020

Slime mold simulations used to map dark matter holding universe together

Researchers have successfully mapped the cosmic web's filamentary structure using a slime mold-inspired algorithm, providing insights into dark matter's role in shaping the universe. The study revealed that denser regions of intergalactic gas are organized into filaments that stretch over 10 million light-years from galaxies.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

New study identifies valuable tool for treating pancreatic cancer patients

Researchers developed a new concept of resectability and identified objective pre-operative prognostic factors to predict long-term survival in pancreatic cancer patients. The study's nomogram can estimate patient outcomes before surgery, regardless of local anatomic features.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateMar 10, 2020

Poor sleep in infancy linked to behavioral and emotional problems in toddlers

Researchers at the University of Birmingham found a clear relationship between infant sleep problems and emotional and behavioral problems in toddlers. Infants who experienced frequent night wakings, short sleep duration, or difficulty falling asleep were more likely to show emotional and behavioral problems by 24 months.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalBMJ Paediatrics Open·DateMar 10, 2020

Astronomers use slime mold model to reveal dark threads of the cosmic web

Researchers use a Physarum-based algorithm to visualize the cosmic web's filaments, connecting galaxies and diffuse hydrogen gas. The model replicates the distribution of dark matter on large scales, providing a new tool for understanding the universe's structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 10, 2020

A novel biofuel system for hydrogen production from biomass

A novel biofuel system has been developed for hydrogen production from biomass, improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption. The system uses lignin as an electron donor to produce high-value-added compounds and extract electrons for hydrogen production.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Catalysis·DateMar 10, 2020

Planet's largest ecosystems collapse faster than previously forecast

Research reveals large ecosystems like Amazon forests can collapse in 49 years and Caribbean coral reefs in just 15 years. This accelerated rate of transformation is attributed to the modular structure of larger ecosystems, which initially provides resilience but ultimately accelerates unraveling when a threshold is passed.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2020

Making more MXene

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a lab-scale reactor system that can produce large quantities of MXene in bulk, preserving its unique properties. The system uses a computerized process to refine the material and ensures consistency, a critical step towards achieving manufacturing standards.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·DateMar 10, 2020

New study confirms value of family meals

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior confirms that frequent family meals are associated with better dietary outcomes and improved family functioning. The research found a positive relationship between family meal frequency and increased fruit and vegetable consumption, as well as measures of family c...

SourceThe Ginger Network·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 10, 2020

Experts call for more support for parents of children with genetic learning disabilities

New research from the University of Cambridge suggests that parents of children with genetic learning disabilities are at risk of mental health problems. The study found that social factors do not predict a parent's risk of low mood and stress, instead highlighting the impact of the child's genetic disorder and behavior on family life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 2020