A wireless sweat sensor developed by Caltech researcher Wei Gao accurately detects cortisol levels in near real-time, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of stress and mental health conditions. The sensor has been tested on healthy individuals and patients with depression and PTSD, showing promising results.
SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateFeb 26, 2020
The study reveals that ants' cuticular hydrocarbon layer exhibits a huge melting range, from -45 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius, composed of both liquid and solid components. This unique property allows the layer to fulfill both communication and waterproofing functions.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 26, 2020
A novel nanoelectronics device has enabled brain neurons and artificial neurons to communicate with each other over the internet. This breakthrough study shows how three key emerging technologies can work together: brain-computer interfaces, artificial neural networks and advanced memory technologies.
SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 26, 2020
A retrospective study found that patients who underwent regular surveillance imaging after surgery had similar median survival rates to those who only returned when they felt symptoms of recurrence. The results suggest less frequent imaging could improve patient convenience and reduce costs.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalWorld Neurosurgery·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers discovered that the transverse arch (TA) contributes significantly to the stiffness of the human foot, with half of its stiffness attributed to this structure. The study's findings have implications for understanding flatfoot disorder and the design of robotic feet.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers studied 51 cats injured in California wildfires and found a high incidence of heart problems, including thickening of the heart muscle and blood clot formation. The study suggests that wildfires may be a harbinger of human health effects, with severe burns increasing cardiovascular changes.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 26, 2020
Regenstrief Institute researcher Brian Dixon is presenting strategies for integrating social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status and access to food, into patient records. This integration aims to better address individual and public health needs by combining clinical data with social determinants.
Researchers at Kessler Foundation are studying a potential application of a trunk-strengthening program to improve posture, balance, and mobility in individuals recovering from stroke. The pilot study uses the AllCore360º device to examine the effects on posture, balance, and walking ability.
A new study by the University of Washington reveals that experiencing wildness in urban areas is essential for physical and mental health. Researchers surveyed hundreds of park-goers and found that encounters with wildlife, water views, and solitude were key to visitors' meaningful experiences.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Cities·DateFeb 26, 2020
A Yale-led team of researchers discovered that the transverse arch in the human foot, not previously studied, is responsible for nearly half of the foot's stiffness. This finding challenges conventional thinking about the human foot's structure and evolution.
Researchers validate TRAX air quality sensor data, showcasing its ability to capture air pollution events, including summer fireworks and winter inversions. The expanded dataset provides insights into air mass exchange between the Salt Lake and Utah counties.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalUrban Science·DateFeb 26, 2020
The NIH Technology Accelerator Challenge aims to develop handheld, digital technologies for detecting diseases with high global impact. The challenge will focus on sickle cell disease, malaria, and anemia, addressing the need for accessible diagnostic tools in low-resource settings.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Biomedical Imaging & Bioengineering·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study finds that socioeconomic status has the strongest impact on STEM science enrollment in Australian secondary schools. Lower SES schools lack resources and diversity in syllabi, making it difficult for underrepresented students to engage with science. Initiatives promoting inclusivity and cultural capital can help increase pa...
SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInternational Journal of Science Education·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers found that hydroxyl radicals have a surprising partner in crime - Criegee intermediate. This new pathway could help explain age-related diseases and cancer, as well as how food decomposes over time. The study points to an unexpected link between atmospheric chemistry and our bodies' ability to ward off disease.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2020
A breakthrough discovery by Trinity College Dublin researchers identifies Caspase-11 as a key driver of allergic inflammation in asthma. This finding holds great promise for developing new therapeutic options to treat the debilitating disease.
SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2020
Scientists in Japan have reached a breakthrough in controlling fusion plasma's uniformity by studying the movement of hydrogen isotopes. The research found that turbulent states, such as ion temperature gradient turbulence, result in more uniform isotope ratios, which is favorable for fusion reactions.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers developed bifunctional nanobodies that neutralize multiple types of botulinum neurotoxins, including Botox, with greater potency than single-nanobody approaches. The findings address urgent need for antitoxins against Tier 1 select agents.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 26, 2020
A study of veteran endurance athletes aged 50-75 found that 20-25% had an enlarged aorta, challenging the concept that the aorta is a stable structure. The study's findings suggest that lifelong exercise may cause dilation of the aorta with attendant risks.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study by Brigham and Women's Hospital investigators found that aggressively lowering blood pressure levels can add six months to three years to a person's lifetime, depending on their age. The analysis used age-based methods to estimate the long-term benefits of intensive blood pressure control.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 26, 2020
A drug strategy aimed at boosting natural killer cells appears to effectively treat eczema in mice, reducing inflammation and improving skin rash. Researchers hope this approach could help patients with asthma and food allergies as well.
SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers at NIST have made the most sensitive measurements to date of silicon's conductivity using a novel method that allows them to test relatively thick specimens. The new technique has the potential to improve semiconductor materials and their applications, including solar cells and next-generation high-speed cellular networks.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science develop a new method to produce hydrogen fuel efficiently using a catalyst derived from rust. The process, powered by light, can increase hydrogen production up to 25 times compared to existing methods.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateFeb 26, 2020
Purdue University researchers have created a novel way of doing some medical imaging using formable and stretchable RF coils. The technology provides an excellent signal-to-noise ratio for enhanced MRI scanning, making it more comfortable and accessible for patients.
SourcePurdue University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers at UCSF successfully transplanted stem cells into fetal mice carrying a genetic mutation that causes MPS7, a disorder affecting enzyme production. The treatment improved survival rates and helped sustain the fetus through birth, with potential benefits for related metabolic disorders.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2020
A clinical trial led by Queen Mary University of London found that immune therapy drug pembrolizumab significantly reduced the risk of cancer recurrence in patients with early triple negative breast cancer. Nearly 65% of women showed no sign of cancer after treatment, compared to 51% on chemotherapy alone.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study led by University of Michigan researchers found that highly active gray and cubera snappers in a Bahamian mangrove estuary spread the highest levels of essential nutrient nitrogen through their urine, nearly doubling its presence. This fertilizer supports more plant growth and food at the base of the food web.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 26, 2020
The study found that the transverse arch is a bigger source of foot stiffness than previously thought, and it may have evolved to become human-like over 3.5 million years ago. The researchers used mechanical mimics and fossil record analysis to support their findings.
Researchers at Columbia Engineering have introduced a new robotic finger with a highly precise sense of touch over complex, multicurved surfaces. The finger uses overlapping light signals to detect contact and can localize touch with very high precision, making it suitable for dexterous hands.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalIEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics·DateFeb 26, 2020
A longitudinal study in Germany found that classmates' gender stereotypes have a negative effect on boys' reading outcomes, including lower motivation and achievement. In contrast, girls experienced positive effects from their classmates' stereotypes. The study suggests that reducing stereotypical behaviors in classrooms can help creat...
SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers from Curtin University analyzed volcanic meteorites from Antarctica to understand Asteroid Vesta's geological history. The study found that Vesta was volcanically active for at least 30 million years after its formation, contradicting previous models and suggesting pockets of magma survived on the asteroid.
SourceCurtin University·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateFeb 26, 2020
Conserved epigenetic regulators BAZ2B and EHMT1 identified as novel anti-aging targets in aging research. The study reveals a mechanism for regulating cognitive aging by reducing mitochondrial function.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateFeb 26, 2020
The Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative (EDGI) will help researchers better understand eating disorders and enable the design of new treatments. Up to 5% of the population will experience an eating disorder, with genetic factors involved in some cases.
A commonly used anti-psychotic medication has been linked to potentially adverse changes in brain structure, particularly a thinning of the cortex. The study found these changes were more prominent in elderly participants and those who experienced relapse of psychotic symptoms.
SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 26, 2020
The study found improvements in brain metabolism and self-reported cognitive function improvements in patients with multiple sclerosis. N-acetylcysteine administration increased cerebral glucose metabolism and enabled neurons to recover some of their metabolic function.
SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalFrontiers in Neurology·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study of over 88,000 veterans with pneumonia found that broad-spectrum antibiotics did not improve outcomes and may even increase the risk of death. The researchers suggest sticking to standard antibiotic treatments for a couple of days before considering anti-MRSA therapy.
SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers have identified cannabigerol (CBG) as a potent antibacterial agent against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). CBG targets the cell membrane of gram-positive bacteria, showing promise in treating MRSA infections.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 26, 2020
Research estimates that online shopping for fast-moving consumer goods produces varying levels of greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional and 'Bricks & Clicks' models. Shoppers can reduce their footprint by walking or biking to stores, while retailers can cut emissions by switching to electric cargo bikes.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study finds that common malnutrition definitions do not apply equally to all cancers, highlighting the need for cancer-type specific definitions for preoperative risk assessment. The study's findings suggest that using one-size-fits-all definitions could result in overestimating or underestimating a patient's risk of complication...
SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that connectedness to nature has a positive association with sustainability practices and behaviors in children, leading to higher levels of happiness. The study suggests that promoting exposure to nature can encourage pro-environmental behaviors and environmental care in younger g...
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2020
The SEIS seismometer has measured over 174 probable 'Mars quakes', providing valuable data on the planet's composition. The analysis indicates a layer of rock 10 kilometres thick, with waves spreading at relatively slow speeds, suggesting fissured or chemically altered rock.
SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 26, 2020
The prevalence and incidence of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in veterans receiving care from the VA health system increased significantly over the past decade. The rate of new diagnoses also rose steadily, with nearly one percent of patients diagnosed with ADHD.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalMedical Care·DateFeb 26, 2020
A team of HKUST scientists has identified potential vaccine targets for SARS-CoV-2, leveraging genetic similarity with SARS-CoV. The study found that only 20% of SARS-CoV epitopes map identically to SARS-CoV-2, but these promising candidates may offer protection against COVID-19.
SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalViruses·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University analyzed US energy production data from 1970-2014, finding that nuclear power reduced carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 2 million metric tons annually. The study suggests policymakers consider nuclear power as a low-carbon source to incentivize utilities to shift toward increased nuclear gener...
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalResource and Energy Economics·DateFeb 26, 2020
A new study found that middle-aged and older adults who consumed sugary beverages daily had a higher risk of developing abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to those who rarely drank them. The study suggests that limiting sugary drink intake may help maintain healthier blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateFeb 26, 2020
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a new processor architecture, STATICA, that can efficiently solve combinatorial optimization problems. The proposed system is fully connected and considers all spin-to-spin interactions, enabling parallel updating using stochastic cell automata, which reduces calculation time.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania developed a blood test that correlates tumor mutations with clinical outcomes. Patients with higher mutation rates experience better responses to PD-1-based immunotherapy and longer survival times.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 26, 2020
The study revealed that the subsurface at the Chang'E-4 landing site is made of highly porous granular materials embedding boulders of different sizes. The findings suggest a turbulent early galaxy and frequent meteor impacts on the Moon's surface.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 26, 2020
The Roberts Individualized Medical Genetics Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has developed a centralized genetic testing model that has improved diagnosis and patient outcomes. The center's success highlights the importance of standardizing genetic testing across different clinical disciplines.
SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 26, 2020
A study analyzing 5,000 non-surgical rhinoplasties found high efficacy and safety with low complication rates. The procedure involves targeting critical aesthetic points on the nose and using hyaluronic acid filler for reversibility and convenience. Long-lasting results were observed in approximately 32% of patients.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 26, 2020
Chronic job insecurity has been shown to alter a person's personality over time, particularly in regards to emotional stability and agreeableness. Researchers found that those exposed to job insecurity for over four years became less conscientious as well.
SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers found that 39% of Philadelphians and 34% of surrounding city residents drank fewer sugar-sweetened beverages a year after the tax was implemented. However, this reduction was not statistically significant, with only three fewer sugary beverages consumed per month.
SourceDrexel University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers discovered that nanoprecipitates serve as both dislocation sources and obstacles, leading to a self-hardening deformation mechanism. This sustainable approach enhances ductility and strength in structural materials.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2020
Scientists from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign developed a new CRISPR gene-editing methodology that inactivated a key gene responsible for ALS, slowing disease progression and improving muscle function. The treatment also increased overall survival in mice with aggressive forms of ALS.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers created a 'film' of a single atom's measurement process, showing that the state changes gradually over time. This study provides new insights into the inner workings of nature and sheds light on the predictions of modern quantum physics.
SourceStockholm University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers develop new functional metrics to detect anthropic impacts in temporary rivers, surpassing traditional biological indicators. These metrics can be applied regardless of flow intermittence, providing precise environmental degradation detection.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateFeb 26, 2020
Researchers at Ohio State University developed RNA nanoparticles to deliver chemotherapeutic drugs paclitaxel and camptothecin, increasing their water solubility and targeting tumor cells. The nanoparticles showed precise drug loading and retention of anti-tumor activity with minimal toxicity.
SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2020
A promising new study by University of Melbourne researchers suggests that wearing hearing aids may delay cognitive decline in older adults. The study found significant improvements in executive function, working memory, and quality of life for participants aged 62-82 years with hearing loss.
SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJournal of Clinical Medicine·DateFeb 26, 2020
Scientists investigate microorganisms in the twilight zone of the ocean and find they can degrade recalcitrant organic compounds. The study provides insight into the ocean's carbon cycle and may help predict microbes' role in regulating it.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateFeb 26, 2020
A study by Northwestern University found that people with better cardiovascular health in their 20s are more likely to have higher scores on thinking and memory tests, even after adjusting for education level. The researchers also found an association between better cardiovascular health and improved cerebral autoregulation.
A large-scale malaria vaccine study by the World Health Organization has been criticized for failing to obtain informed consent from parents whose children are taking part in the study. The WHO claims that a 'pilot introduction' and not a research activity, but experts argue that this violates international ethical standards.