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Science News Archive March 2020 - Page 34


Page 34 of 41

New platform for cancer diagnostics and drug testing

A new experimental platform for cancer diagnostics, prognoses, and testing cancer drugs has been developed by analyzing the extracellular matrix of tumor tissues. The platform uses protein fibers surrounding cells to predict disease risk and potential treatment efficacy in various patients with different types of cancers.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBiomaterials·DateMar 4, 2020

Better planning could save millions in health care costs

A new study from Michigan State University and Rutgers University reveals that five to 10 minutes are added to each surgery due to unplanned supplies, resulting in nearly $28 million annually in unnecessary costs. Implementing standardized planning processes for medical supplies can significantly reduce these waste costs.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Operations Management·DateMar 4, 2020

Risks of later abortions on subsequent births

A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that women who had late abortions experienced a higher risk of extremely preterm birth. The research included over 418,000 first-time mothers and observed an increased risk of very low birthweight among those with late abortion(s) compared to early abortion(s).

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateMar 4, 2020

UCF study: Sea level rise impacts to Canaveral sea turtle nests will be substantial

A new study by UCF predicts that Canaveral National Seashore will experience the greatest impact from sea level rise and hurricanes, with a loss of about 1% of its loggerhead habitat by 2100. The study used a new method to calculate current and future sea turtle nesting areas, which can help the National Park Service manage resources.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalEcological Applications·DateMar 4, 2020

Bereaved individuals may face higher risk of dying from melanoma

Research published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that bereaved individuals have a 17% higher risk of dying from melanoma compared to non-bereaved persons. Those who had lost a partner were also 12% less likely to be diagnosed with melanoma, highlighting the importance of skin checks for early detection and improved survival.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateMar 4, 2020

Dental teams could play an important role in early diagnosis of Type 2 and pre-diabetes

A systematic review suggests that dental teams can play a vital role in identifying individuals at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. By using risk assessment tools and point-of-care blood testing, dental professionals can help detect early signs of the condition, potentially leading to better management and outcomes for patients.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCurrent Oral Health Reports·DateMar 4, 2020

Regenerative nerve interface enhances precision and durability of hand prostheses

A new regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) technology has been developed to improve the control and precision of prosthetic hands for upper limb amputees. The RPNIs allowed participants to perform complex finger and thumb movements with high accuracy and worked for up to 300 days without requiring recalibration.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 4, 2020

Car congestion outweighs scooter scourge on city streets

A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that motor vehicles are the main cause of blocking access to other travelers on city streets, with a higher noncompliance rate (24.7%) compared to scooters and bikes (0.8%). The study suggests that cities should rethink their parking policies in response to the rise of technology-e...

SourceCornell University·JournalTransportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives·DateMar 4, 2020

Is it time to nationalize the drug industry?

Experts debate nationalizing the pharmaceutical sector to improve public health priorities, address extortionate pricing, and ensure patient access to new advanced drugs. Mariana Mazzucato and Henry Lishi Li propose a government-provided quality-assured medicine option that co-exists with private sector products.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 4, 2020

Workplace program to improve blood pressure control

A randomized clinical trial in 60 urban workplaces in China found that a wellness program with hypertension management component significantly improved blood pressure control among employees. The program reduced systolic blood pressure by 3.5 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 2.5 mmHg compared to usual care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 4, 2020

Diabetes remission rates after 2 common weight-loss surgeries

Researchers examined associations between two common weight-loss surgeries and type 2 diabetes outcomes, finding improved glycemic control and weight loss after five years. The study included 9,700 adults who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, suggesting these procedures may help achieve diabetes remission.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 4, 2020

Breastfeeding and risks of allergies and asthma

A study of 1,177 mother-infant pairs found exclusive breastfeeding for the first 3 months linked with a lower risk of respiratory allergies and asthma. Breastfeeding duration was insufficient to reduce the risk if not accompanied by family history of asthma.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateMar 4, 2020

Household chemical use linked to child language delays

A new study published in Clinical Pediatrics found that young children from low-income homes whose mothers used toxic household chemicals frequently showed delays in language development and scored lower on cognitive tests. The researchers analyzed data from 190 families and found no link between neighborhood pollution, mold, or pestic...

SourceOhio State University·JournalClinical Pediatrics·DateMar 4, 2020

Researchers gather interventions addressing 'word gap' into special edition of journal

A special edition of Early Childhood Research Quarterly presents 18 language-intervention research studies on the 'word gap,' which documents significant language disparities in young children. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions with parents, educators, and healthcare providers to address these gaps.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEarly Childhood Research Quarterly·DateMar 4, 2020

How loneliness affects end-of-life experiences

A study of over 2,800 Americans aged 50+ found that lonely individuals experience more burdensome symptoms at the end of life and receive more intense care. They are also more likely to die in nursing homes and use life support.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 4, 2020

Researchers identify breaking point of conducting material

Researchers at Penn State developed a new method to predict the temperature when plastics change from supple to brittle, which could accelerate the development of flexible electronics. The study found that a simple relationship between chemical structure and glass transition temperature can be used to predict embrittlement point.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 4, 2020

Young women with breast cancer may face financial hardship after diagnosis

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that young women with breast cancer experience substantial financial difficulties after diagnosis, even if they have stable jobs and insurance coverage. The study highlights the need for better financial planning and awareness of the costs associated with cancer care.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Epidemiology·DateMar 4, 2020