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Science News for February 19, 2020


Fetal balloon treatment for lung-damaging birth defect works best when fetal and maternal care are highly coordinated

Researchers from Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy report improved lung function in infants born after FETO therapy, which involves a minimally invasive procedure to block the fetal trachea. The study found that prenatal and postnatal monitoring and care were highly coordinated, allowing for favorable outcomes in the 14 infants born.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 19, 2020

An optimized structure of memristive device for neuromorphic computing systems implemented

Lobachevsky University scientists create a new variant of the metal-oxide memristive device that holds promise for use in RRAM and novel computing systems, including neuromorphic ones. The optimized structure stabilizes resistive switching between nonlinear resistive states, enabling robust switching and low variation of resistive states.

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateFeb 19, 2020

Diabetes patients who use online tools manage disease better

A Kaiser Permanente study found that diabetes patients who used the patient portal and mobile phone app showed significant improvements in health outcomes. The use of these online tools was associated with increased medication adherence and lower blood glucose levels, particularly among patients with higher baseline HbA1c levels.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 19, 2020

A new model of the worm C. elegans to progress in the study of a rare disease

A new model of chromosome X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy in C. elegans has been identified, accelerating research on the disease and its potential pharmacological targets. The model points to glial cells as responsible for neurological damage, with oxidative stress caused by mitochondria being a major cause.

SourceIDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute·JournalFree Radical Biology and Medicine·DateFeb 19, 2020

Time-resolved measurement in a memory device

The study achieved time-resolved measurement of a single magnetic memory event using a tunnel junction, revealing two stages: incubation and actual reversal. The researchers developed a strategy to minimize time fluctuations, reducing the total time for the reversal event to less than 0.3 nanoseconds.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 19, 2020

Improving assessments of an endangered lion population in India

A new study provides alternative method for monitoring endangered lions, estimating an overall density of 8.53 lions per 100 square kilometers. The researchers found that prey density does not influence variations in lion density within the study site, and baiting lions for tourism perturbs their natural density patterns.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 19, 2020

Scientists develop open-source software to analyze economics of biofuels, bioproducts

A new open-source simulation software package in Python allows researchers to quickly compare and prioritize strategies for converting biomass to fuels and products. BioSTEAM provides a fast, flexible tool to analyze the economic and environmental implications of biorefineries.

Tart cherry juice concentrate found to help improve endurance exercise performance

A new meta-analysis found that tart cherry concentrate significantly improved endurance exercise performance when consumed for seven days to 1.5 hours before cycling, swimming or running. The study pooled results from 10 previously published studies and concluded that tart cherries improved performance in endurance-trained individuals.

SourceWeber Shandwick Chicago·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateFeb 19, 2020

One drug, many diseases

Researchers are working on developing drugs that inhibit the function of NLRP3, an inflammatory protein involved in various diseases such as atherosclerosis, cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and arthritis. Several NLRP3 inhibitors are currently in preclinical trials with varying mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 19, 2020

Grabbing atoms

Researchers at the University of Otago have successfully trapped and cooled three individual atoms, allowing them to observe previously unseen complex atomic interactions. This breakthrough has significant implications for future quantum technologies, including the potential to build and control single molecules of particular chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 19, 2020

Freedom of Information legislation: Fit for purpose?

A study by University of Leeds researchers found high levels of non-disclosure due to refusal, partial refusal, or non-response to FOI requests. The current FOI Act is deemed unfit for purpose, with only 24% of requests resulting in full disclosure, and many authorities failing to respond within the statutory 20-day period.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalParliamentary Affairs·DateFeb 19, 2020

A new way to assess male fertility

A new microfluidic chip developed by researchers can quickly identify small differences in sperm chemotactic behavior, providing a more complete picture of male fertility. The device uses a concentration gradient of progesterone to guide sperm towards the egg, offering a pump-free alternative to existing tests.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 19, 2020

Future soldiers may get improved helmet padding

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory has developed new materials and manufacturing methods to create higher performing helmet padding that reduces the likelihood of head injury. The new padding consists of highly-tuned open-cell lattice structures, demonstrating a 27% increase in energy attenuation efficiency compared to existing foam pads.

Antidote to pain and negativity? Let it be

A new study by Yale researchers found that a brief introduction to mindfulness concepts can significantly reduce physical pain and negative emotions in people. The study's results showed that even when participants were subjected to high heat on their forearm, their brain responded as if it was experiencing normal temperature.

SourceYale University·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateFeb 19, 2020

Right place, right time

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a control mechanism in the brains of mice that ensures adequate blood flow to areas of heightened neural activity. The study found that arteries actively regulate neurovascular coupling and that the protein Mfsd2a plays a critical role in this process.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateFeb 19, 2020

Green chemistry of fullerene: Scientists invented an environmentally friendly way to realize organic

Researchers developed a novel approach for preparing thin fullerene films from aqueous solutions, reducing environmental risks and making organic electronics more accessible. The method enabled fabrication of organic field-effect transistors with high charge carrier mobility and gas sensors.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateFeb 19, 2020

Journey to the center of Mars

Scientists Takashi Yoshizaki and Bill McDonough developed a new compositional model for Mars, predicting the depth to its core-mantle boundary at around 1,800 km. The model suggests moderate amounts of sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen in Mars' core, with the core accounting for only about one-sixth of the planet's mass.

SourceTohoku University·JournalGeochimica et Cosmochimica Acta·DateFeb 19, 2020

Spanish modified Story Memory Technique efficacious for Mexicans with multiple sclerosis

A pilot study found that the Spanish adaptation of the modified Story Memory Technique improved learning and life satisfaction in Mexicans with multiple sclerosis. The intervention, which teaches imagery and context to facilitate learning, may be an effective rehabilitative tool for Spanish-speaking populations with MS.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateFeb 19, 2020

Fish in the Sahara? Yes, in the early Holocene

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals the ancient hydrographic network of the Sahara, showing significant changes in climate and fauna over time. The Takarkori rock shelter, excavated by researchers, yielded fish remains that decreased in abundance as the region became more arid, replaced by mammal-heavy diet.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 19, 2020

The potentially deadly paradox of diabetes management

A new study found that people with Type 2 diabetes in the US often receive treatment that is too aggressive or not aggressive enough, with those who are most likely to benefit from intensive therapy being underserved. The study suggests a fine line between effective treatment and increased risk of hypoglycemia.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateFeb 19, 2020

Cannabis use during pregnancy

A large observational study found an association between cannabis use during pregnancy and increased risk of depression, anxiety, and trauma diagnoses. The study analyzed data from over 1 million women screened for prenatal cannabis use in California.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 19, 2020

Could water solve the renewable energy storage challenge?

Researchers found that seasonal pumped hydropower storage has considerable potential for highly competitive energy storage costs, with estimated global energy storage potential of 17.3 PWh. The study also addresses environmental concerns related to traditional hydropower plants, suggesting a more sustainable solution for renewable ener...

Changes to Title X mean contraception access for teens could worsen nationwide, study shows

A new study from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus finds that changes to Title X have led to confusion and loss of access to confidential family planning services for teens in Texas. The research suggests that similar issues may worsen nationwide as the new policies are implemented.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateFeb 19, 2020

Community health worker-led care improves blood pressure control in hypertensive patients

A multi-country intervention trial found that community health worker-led care led to significant reductions in blood pressure and improved hypertension management. The study, conducted in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, showed a 5mmHg decline in systolic blood pressure and better BP control in the intervention group.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 19, 2020

Jet stream not getting 'wavier' despite Arctic warming

A new study by University of Exeter researchers has found that Arctic warming does not drive a more meandering jet stream, despite earlier studies suggesting a link between the two. The research suggests random fluctuations in the jet stream influencing Arctic temperatures may be behind any observed correlation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 19, 2020

Big investment needed to eliminate Hep C in Pakistan could deliver huge health benefits

A study estimates that Pakistan needs a significant investment of $3.9 billion to achieve the World Health Organization's target for eliminating Hepatitis C virus (HCV) by 2030. This would involve screening or re-screening 36 million people annually and treating 660,000 each year, with regular follow-ups to identify new infections.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateFeb 19, 2020

Training the mind in resilience

Two studies from University of Miami researchers show that mindfulness training programs tailored for firefighters and soldiers improve attention, mood, and resilience. The Mindfulness-based Attention Training (MBAT) program provides tools to succeed under VUCA circumstances.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPsychiatry Research·DateFeb 19, 2020

A spookily good sensor

Scientists at Japan Science and Technology Agency developed a method to couple a magnetic sphere with a sensor using quantum entanglement, enabling single-shot detection of magnetic excitations. The device's sensitivity is comparable to that of theoretical dark-matter particles, opening new avenues for research.

Ancient gut microbiomes shed light on human evolution

A new study suggests that our ancestors' gut microbiomes were critical for their survival in new environments, allowing them to digest and detoxify local food sources. The findings also imply that social sharing of microbes might have led to local adaptations, influencing human migration and settlement.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateFeb 19, 2020