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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 12


Page 12 of 41

Study uncovers increasing global rates of liver cancer

A new study found increasing global rates of liver cancer, particularly in people aged 30-59 years and 60 years and older, as well as a notable increase in men. The research, published in the journal Cancer, also revealed that hepatitis B vaccinations and obesity are associated with decreased rates of liver cancer in younger adults.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMar 23, 2020

Can migration, workforce participation, and education balance the cost of aging in Europe?

A new IIASA study shows that higher levels of education and increasing workforce participation can offset the economic burden of an aging population in Europe. The 'productivity-weighted labor force dependency ratio' reflects the impact of expanding education and labor market participation, particularly among women and the elderly.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2020

After statewide teacher evaluation reform, low-rated teachers leave struggling schools: Study finds

A recent study by New York University found that statewide teacher evaluation reform is associated with increased turnover of lower-performing instructors, particularly in urban districts and low-performing schools. The research suggests that these reforms can help retain more effective teachers for longer periods.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateMar 23, 2020

Associations between screen use, language skills

Research combining data from 42 studies shows a correlation between increased screen time and decreased language proficiency in young children. The analysis found that children who spent more time on screens had poorer language skills, suggesting a potential link between excessive screen use and delayed linguistic development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 23, 2020

Five language outcome measures evaluated for intellectual disabilities studies

Researchers developed five language outcome measures using expressive language sampling (ELS) to assess treatment efficacy in individuals with fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities. The study found that ELS yielded valid and reliable measures for most participants, but were more challenging for younger or less able individuals.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateMar 23, 2020

Counteracting a legacy of extinctions

A new study comparing introduced herbivore species to those of the past reveals that these introductions have restored many important ecological traits that have been lost for thousands of years. Introduced megafauna are now ecologically similar to their extinct relatives, making the world more similar to its pre-extinction state.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2020

Made to degrade (eventually)

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a marine biodegradable plastic using starch and cellulose, demonstrating excellent water-resistance and high strength. The new material has the potential to significantly reduce marine debris accumulation and contribute to sustainable development goals.

'Thermometer' protein regulates blooming

Researchers have discovered that a thermosensing protein complex regulates plant growth and flowering in response to temperature changes. The study found that ELF3 protein plays a crucial role in this process, preventing the complex from repressing plant genes when temperatures rise.

SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 23, 2020

Clinicians should consider screening for TSH-R-Abs before pregnancy in patients with history of autoimmune thyroid disorders

Screening for thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibodies (TSH-R-Abs) before pregnancy is crucial for patients with a history of autoimmune thyroid disease. This is because TSH-R-Abs can lead to irreversible impairment in fetal neurodevelopment. A case report highlights the importance of screening, especially in women with Graves' ...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 23, 2020