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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
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Neanderthal migration

Researchers found that Neanderthals in Southern Siberia originated from various European populations, including those from Central and Eastern Europe. The study used DNA analysis of Neanderthal bones and sediments to reconstruct the migration route.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·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

Micromotors get supercharged with three 'engines'

Researchers have developed micromotors with three engines that can be controlled separately using chemical fuel, magnets, and light. The new micromotors offer a 'myriad of controllable propulsion behaviors' and can travel at high speeds through viscous fluids like saliva and blood.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateMar 4, 2020

New model improves management of wetland, floodplain and river habitats

Researchers at Utah State University developed a computer model to help manage wetland, floodplain and aquatic habitats. The Watershed Area of Suitable Habitat systems model, known as WASH, identifies optimal water allocation strategies to improve habitat quality and area.

SourceUtah State University·JournalEnvironmental Modelling & Software·DateMar 4, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

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

Decades-old antidepressant may fend off prostate cancer's return

A pilot study at USC found that an MAO inhibitor called phenelzine can help patients with recurrent prostate cancer by disrupting tumor growth pathways. The drug has fewer side effects compared to standard hormone therapy treatments.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProstate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases·DateMar 4, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Nanoscale spectroscopy review showcases a bright future

The nanoscale spectroscopy review highlights the potential of luminescent nanoparticles in diverse areas such as imaging, biomarker detection and data storage. The field aims to understand the properties of artificial atoms to control and tailor them for specific applications.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020

Platinum-based agents not superior to standard chemotherapy

A new trial led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that platinum-based therapy was not superior to standard chemotherapy in treating patients with BRCA mutations. The study, known as INFORM, compared the efficacy of cisplatin to a standard treatment regimen in patients with breast cancer.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·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
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Does antibiotic use during pregnancy and infancy impact childhood obesity?

Use of antibiotics during infancy may increase children's risk of becoming overweight or obese, while prenatal antibiotic use does not appear to affect weight in subsequent years. Investigators analyzed 23 studies involving over 1.2 million participants and found no link between prenatal antibiotic use and childhood obesity.

SourceWiley·JournalObesity·DateMar 4, 2020

Even fake illness affects relationships among vampire bats

A new study found that vampire bats' social relationships change differently depending on the type of behavior and relationship. The lead author injected the bats with a bacterial extract to make them feel sick without harming their health, observing how it affected their social interactions.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 4, 2020

Waves and tides have bigger impact on marine life than human activity

A study of 170 species found that waves and tides have a bigger impact on marine life in Swansea Bay than human activity. This comprehensive picture will help planners understand the Bay's ecosystem and make informed decisions about ecological impact.

SourceSwansea University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 4, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Why runner's addiction is adding to your injury woes

A study by University of South Australia Adjunct Professor Jan de Jonge found that obsessively passionate runners are more likely to suffer from running-related injuries. In contrast, runners who maintain a harmonious balance between running and other activities report fewer injuries.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·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

Tiny scorpion-derived proteins deliver arthritis drugs to joints in preclinical study

Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center discovered a mini-protein in scorpion venom that rapidly accumulates in joint cartilage, allowing it to deliver steroids and other drugs directly to the affected area. This approach may potentially improve the safety of arthritis treatment by reducing systemic side effects.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 4, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Fighting hand tremors: First comes AI, then robots

A team of researchers from NYU Tandon and Canada have developed a machine learning model called PHTNet, which enables robots to accurately predict and compensate for hand tremors in patients with Parkinson's disease. The model has been tested on a dataset of 81 patients and reported a 95% confidence rate over 24,300 samples.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2020

As farming developed, so did cooperation -- and violence

A new study finds that domestication of plants fostered cooperation among people, but also saw the rise of organized intergroup violence. As farming developed, groups aggregated and lived cooperatively in high-quality locations, but this led to a spike in trophy-taking violence.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalEnvironmental Archaeology·DateMar 4, 2020

Integrating electronics onto physical prototypes

CurveBoards enable easier testing of circuit functions and user interactions with products like smart devices and flexible electronics. The custom-designed objects merge form and function testing in early prototyping stages, improving the overall prototyping experience.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateMar 4, 2020

Impact of obesity on ability to work highest amongst women over 50

A new study by the University of Southampton found that older women with obesity are at a higher risk of prolonged sickness absence or losing their jobs due to health reasons. Women with severe obesity were almost three times as likely to lose their job because of their health.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMar 4, 2020
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Safe tackling, padded helmets lower head injuries in youth football

A Rutgers study found that middle school football players who wore padded helmets and used safe tackling and blocking techniques had no concussions during a 20-practice, seven-game season. The study's results suggest that the use of Guardian Caps and age of participants may have contributed to the low number of impacts recorded.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNeurology·DateMar 4, 2020
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Real-world evidence empowers personalized decisions about weight-loss surgery

The PCORnet Bariatric Study's findings provide a more complete picture of the comparative benefits and risks of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Patients with severe obesity can now make informed decisions about weight-loss surgery based on individual circumstances and preferences.

SourcePatient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMar 4, 2020

Newfound cell defense system features toxin-isolating 'sponges'

Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered a cell defense mechanism that uses tiny, protein-coated packages called exosomes to bind to and neutralize bacterial toxins. This 'soaking up' of toxins helps keep cells safe from infection.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMar 4, 2020

Using molecules to draw on quantum materials

Researchers at INRS and McGill University developed a method to draw molecular patterns on the surface of quantum materials using macrocycles, changing their optical, magnetic, and electrical properties. This technique has potential applications for electronic devices and biosensing.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalACS Nano·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
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Supercomputers drive ion transport research

Scientists used XSEDE-allocated supercomputers to study ion transport through nanoporous membranes. Advanced path sampling techniques captured the kinetics of solute transport, revealing a previously unknown mechanism called induced charge anisotropy that affects ion movement.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalMatter·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
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

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

Our eye movements help us retrieve memories, suggests a new Baycrest study

Researchers at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute found that participants' eye movement patterns could predict mistakes in memory. They used an innovative eye tracking technique to map the participants' eye movements and observe pattern completion.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2020

Research brief: Energy researchers invent error-free catalysts

Researchers developed oscillating catalyst technology that accelerates chemical reactions without side reactions, improving performance and cost-efficiency. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce waste by thousands of tons annually and transform the way chemicals are manufactured.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalChemical Science·DateMar 4, 2020

First-ever CRISPR gene editing within human body done at OHSU

Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking milestone in treating inherited blindness by using CRISPR gene editing within the human body. The BRILLIANCE clinical trial aims to repair mutations causing Leber congenital amaurosis type 10, a rare form of blindness. This permanent approach avoids passing on genetic changes to offspring.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateMar 4, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

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

Examining risk of violent assault among young immigrants, refugees in Canada

A population-based study found that young immigrants and refugees in Ontario, Canada, are at higher risk of experiencing violent assault compared to nonimmigrant youth. The study used linked health and administrative databases to analyze the risk of violent assault among young immigrants and refugees aged 10-24.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·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
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Researchers identify novel cybersecurity approach to protect Army systems

A team of researchers has identified a novel cybersecurity approach called SymTCP to enhance the effectiveness and timeliness of protection against attacks on Army systems. The approach uses symbolic execution to explore the state of TCP implementation and identify ways to reach critical points in the code.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·DateMar 4, 2020

Novel compound sparks new malaria treatment hope

A new class of antimalarial compounds has been developed by Australian and US researchers, targeting a previously unexplored parasite pathway. The compounds have shown effectiveness against different species of malaria parasites, including Plasmodium falciparum, at multiple stages of the parasite lifecycle.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalCell Host & Microbe·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
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

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

Moderate egg intake not associated with cardiovascular disease risk

A large US-based observational study found no association between moderate egg intake and increased cardiovascular disease risk. Egg consumption was not linked to higher rates of heart attacks, strokes, or coronary heart disease. However, replacing eggs with processed red meat may be associated with an increased CVD risk.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMar 4, 2020