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Science News for February 11, 2020


More than just a carnival trick: Researchers can guess your age based on your microbes

A new study has found that researchers can accurately predict a person's chronological age using machine learning algorithms and microbiome samples. The study analyzed data from over 4,400 participants across various body sites, including skin, saliva, and feces, and found significant gender-specific differences in gut microbiome results.

Personalized cancer vaccines

Researchers at EPFL have created a prototype vaccine that can travel to the desired location and activate immune cells, overcoming two major obstacles in therapeutic cancer vaccines. The Polycondensate Neoepitope (PNE) combines a patented technique with an algorithm for predicting mutated tumor antigens.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Central Science·DateFeb 11, 2020

Pedal to the metal: Speeding up treatments for ALS

Researchers found that healthy cells clear harmful aggregates via endocytosis, a process previously thought to occur only on external substances. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for ALS by increasing the efficiency of endocytosis. The next step is to develop ways to enhance this process using genetic and chemical methods.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

DIY tools TalkBox and SenseBox help people with disabilities to communicate

Researchers at University of Maryland Baltimore County developed DIY assistive technology platforms, including TalkBox and SenseBox, to facilitate communication for people with disabilities. These open-source platforms use low-cost sensors and a Raspberry Pi to enable users to communicate through images, sounds, or tactile objects.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalIEEE Pervasive Computing·DateFeb 11, 2020

Making 3-D printing smarter with machine learning

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering develop machine learning algorithms to predict shape deviations in 3-D printing, resulting in improved accuracy across various applications and materials. The software tool, PrintFixer, is designed to be accessible to industry professionals and hobbyists alike.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering·DateFeb 11, 2020

Local genetic adaption helps sorghum crop hide from witchweed

Research finds that sorghum crops in areas with high witchweed prevalence have genetic adaptations to resist the parasite, altering hormone production. While these mutations confer some resistance, they also affect photosynthesis and growth, raising potential trade-offs.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2020

Studies gauge effect of soft drink taxation, advertising and labeling laws

Two studies found that soft drink taxation and labeling laws led to a decrease in beverage purchases high in sugar, sodium and saturated fat. In Chile, front-of-packaging warning labels reduced consumption by 22.8mL per capita per day, while the UK Soft Drinks Industry Levy increased prices by 31% and resulted in significant reductions...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2020

Researchers look to fungus to shed light on cancer

Researchers at Florida State University discovered a fungus that stabilizes key proteins involved in cancer and neurological disease signaling pathways. The natural product fusicoccin has been identified as a tool to study these networks, leading to the discovery of 14 promising protein-protein interaction targets.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Why egalitarian values don't catch on in post-Soviet countries

A recent study found that personal values in post-Soviet countries are primarily determined by national pride, rather than education, age, religiosity, or social status. Despite high rates of divorce and abortion, respondents expressed conservative views on individual choice practices, highlighting a cultural shift towards patriotism.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Sociology and Social Anthropology·DateFeb 11, 2020

A better way to rebuild cartilage

A team of scientists has created a new class of 3D-printed biomaterials that can direct the regeneration of functional tissue in damaged cartilage. The materials are designed to provide cells with the exact cues they need to form tissue organized in the same way as natural cartilage.

Ancient Antarctic ice melt increased sea levels by 3+ meters -- and it could happen again

A new international study led by UNSW Sydney reveals that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet melted rapidly during the Last Interglacial period, causing a multi-metre rise in global mean sea levels. The research suggests that the ice sheet is highly sensitive to future ocean warming, posing an urgent need to minimize warming.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 11, 2020

Understanding recent US mumps outbreaks

A recent study analyzing over 200 mumps virus genomes provides insights into the US outbreaks, revealing a dominant strain responsible for many cases. The research also demonstrates the value of high-quality genomic data in public health surveillance and suggests future efforts should incorporate whole genome sequencing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Teens with a history of ADHD need stronger monitoring of health risks

Researchers found that primary care doctors rarely discuss safe driving and monitor patients for risky sexual behavior with adolescents who have a history of ADHD. The study highlights the need for additional resources and training to provide better care for these patients as they transition from childhood to young adulthood.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateFeb 11, 2020

Why the goby can conquer the waters of the world

The round goby's exceptional adaptability is attributed to its immune system, which features up to 30 times more inflammatory genes than comparable species. This enables the fish to deal with pathogens and extreme environmental conditions, facilitating its successful colonization of diverse waters around the world.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalBMC Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

Heroin use in US

A recent study examined changes in heroin use and addiction among US adults over 16 years. Heroin use disorder increased significantly between 2002 and 2018, affecting approximately 800,000 adults in the country.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 11, 2020