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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 24


Page 24 of 41

Single biological factor predicts distinct cortical organizations across mammalian species

A KAIST research team identified a retino-cortical mapping ratio as the prime determinant in the topography of cortical organization, resolving a long-standing puzzle in understanding visual neuroscience. The study found that evolutionary variation in biological parameters induces distinct functional circuits in the visual cortex acros...

The naming of the shrew

Researchers at Louisiana State University have discovered a new species of shrew, the Sulawesi hairy-tailed shrew, which has thick hair on its tail and climbs trees. The discovery highlights the significant diversity of mammals in Indonesian islands, with many habitats remaining unexplored.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateMar 11, 2020

Detecting aromas in aged cognac

Scientists used gas chromatography and sensory panel analysis to uncover volatile compounds in aged cognac, finding terpenoids for the first time. The study reveals how specific compounds enhance or suppress flavors, shedding light on aging's impact on aromas.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 11, 2020

Rural Hondurans embrace cancer screening opportunities

A collaborative research team from Dartmouth and Honduras found a high level of participation in rural cancer screening events, resulting in over 88% of identified individuals seeking follow-up care. The 'multiphasic' approach involved multiple cancer screenings in one event, which was well-received by local communities.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalJCO Global Oncology·DateMar 11, 2020

Natural bayou better when floods threaten Houston

Researchers at Rice University found that Buffalo Bayou's natural form is better at absorbing floodwater and preventing it from spilling over into heavily populated areas. The study shows that urban development in the Brays watershed increased the 100-year flood plain, making it more prone to flooding.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Flood Risk Management·DateMar 11, 2020

ESO telescope observes exoplanet where it rains iron

The ESO's Very Large Telescope has observed an ultra-hot giant exoplanet where it rains iron on its night side. Strong winds carry iron vapour from the day side to the cooler night side, where temperatures decrease, resulting in a unique and extreme phenomenon.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateMar 11, 2020

Understanding how monomer sequence affects conductance in 'molecular wires'

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a method to precisely control the sequence in synthetic polymers, allowing them to study charge transport properties and measure conductance through single chains. This work has significant implications for designing and manipulating materials with designer properties.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 11, 2020

New nano strategy fights superbugs

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new strategy to destroy antibiotic-resistant genes, known as superbugs, in sewage system wastewater. The nano technology traps and degrades these genetic remnants before they can infect other bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 11, 2020

Doctors group sues California for failing to add processed meat to state carcinogen list

A doctors' group is suing California for neglecting to add processed meat, such as hot dogs and bacon, to the state's cancer-causing substances list under Proposition 65. This move comes after experts classified consumption of processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, increasing risks of colorectal, breast, prostate, pancreatic, and ov...

African Americans, Hispanics less likely to receive recommended lung cancer imaging

A University of Colorado Cancer Center study found that African American patients were half as likely as non-Hispanic whites to receive PET-CT imaging for non-small cell lung cancer, while Hispanics received it 70% as frequently. This disparity may be due to limited access to specialized imaging equipment and unconscious bias.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 11, 2020