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Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 24


Page 24 of 42

Moffitt researchers develop model to predict prostate cancer aggressiveness

A new mathematical model predicts prostate cancer tumor growth and invasiveness based on stromal ecology, revealing that highly reactive stroma drives aggressive tumors. The model was validated in animal models and patients, suggesting improved prognosis with ecological metrics.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 14, 2020

Geography of childhood cancer in Switzerland studied

A study found increased cancer risks in two regions of Switzerland, particularly brain tumors, due to localized factors. The research suggests a need for intensified search for environmental risk factors and separate consideration of different brain tumor subgroups.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalInternational Journal of Health Geographics·DateMay 14, 2020

Patients prefer their consent to share their data and to manage it digitally

Researchers surveyed patients with diabetes on their understanding of sharing medical data, finding they prefer a digital consent application that offers empowerment and control. The Dovetail Digital consent application, using blockchain infrastructure, received favorable responses for its transparency and traceability.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalDigital Health·DateMay 14, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Coping after breast cancer

A recent NIH-funded project explores how the fear of cancer recurrence affects the well-being and relationships of breast cancer patients and their spouses. The research team, led by Jean-Philippe Laurenceau, will focus on three main health behaviors that can be influenced by recurrence fears.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateMay 14, 2020

Making quantum 'waves' in ultrathin materials

Scientists have observed long-lived plasmons in a new class of conducting transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) called quasi 2D crystals. The study reveals that these plasmons could enhance light intensity by more than 10 million times, opening the door for renewable chemistry and electronic materials controlled by light.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2020

Persistence of forages is dependent on harvest intervals

Researchers found that longer alfalfa harvest intervals in the southeastern US result in positive outcomes, with harvesting at 42-day intervals producing maximum productivity. Growing alfalfa in mixtures with tall fescue also yields greatest forage mass and nutritive value.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·DateMay 14, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

AI successfully used to identify different types of brain injuries

Researchers developed an AI algorithm that can detect and identify different types of brain lesions on CT scans, with clinical validation showing high accuracy. The tool has the potential to improve patient outcomes by providing more personalized treatments for head injuries.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateMay 14, 2020

Gaps in international law impede pandemic research

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for clear international laws governing the sharing of pathogen samples and genetic sequence data. Despite critical importance to global public health efforts, there is currently no legal obligation for countries to share such information, impeding scientific progress.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 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.

New study to assess the efficacy of ivermectin against COVID-19

A new study launched by Clínica Universidad de Navarra and the Barcelona Institute for Global Health aims to determine if ivermectin can reduce viral replication in patients with mild COVID-19. The trial, which will be conducted at home, will monitor symptoms and nasal swabs over a month-long period.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·DateMay 14, 2020

SCAI releases official position statement on optimal percutaneous interventional therapy for complex coronary artery disease

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has released a position statement on optimal percutaneous interventional therapy for complex coronary artery disease. The guidelines address the challenges of treating patients with advanced age, frailty, comorbidities, and compromised hemodynamic status.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 14, 2020

COVID-19: Hospital response risks worsening health inequalities

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened health inequalities in hospitals due to restricted clinical services and emergency department attendances. Marginalized groups, including homeless people and migrants, are disproportionately affected by these changes.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateMay 14, 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.

SCAI issues position statement on the performance of percutaneous coronary intervention in ambulatory surgical centers

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has issued a position statement on the performance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). The guidelines recommend diagnostic procedures, procedural standards, and operator standards for ASCs, emphasizing patient suitability ...

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateMay 14, 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.

Pollinator-friendly flowers planted along with crops aid bumblebees

A new study by UMass Amherst and NC State biologists found that flower strips benefit common Eastern bumblebees despite some plants increasing pathogen infection rates. The researchers created three conditions with canola plants and different types of flower strips, showing that bees reproduce more with flower strips than without.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2020

IU School of Medicine study tracks COVID-19 spread in pediatric dialysis unit

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine tracked COVID-19 spread in a pediatric dialysis unit using antibody testing on patients, staff, and healthcare workers. The study found a high occurrence of COVID-19 antibodies among individuals interacting in the unit, suggesting that more healthcare workers may be antibody-positive.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateMay 14, 2020

Answers to these questions can help #Decision2020 build momentum for Americans as we age

The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has released a high-priority question guide for the 2020 elections, addressing eight policy issues important to older adults. The guide focuses on increasing access to geriatric health professionals, expanding Title VII training programs, and prioritizing aging research to address chronic diseases.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 14, 2020

Scientists discover why some birds live fast and die young

A new study from the University of Sheffield reveals that bird species' development time is influenced by their lifestyle, environment, and evolutionary history. The research found that 'live fast die young' strategies allow birds to maximize offspring production in short periods.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 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.

Danish researchers find new breast cancer gene in young people

Researchers have identified a new breast cancer gene, RBBP8, that may explain why some young women develop the disease. The study found that mutations in this gene can lead to cancer by damaging DNA and increasing the risk of genetic variants.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 14, 2020

New research into stem cell mutations could improve regenerative medicine

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered ways to reduce DNA damage and mutations in pluripotent stem cells, a crucial step for regenerative medicine. The findings may allow for safer use of these cells in patients and significantly reduce the risk of genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMay 14, 2020

Ticking time bomb: Malaria parasite has its own inherent clock

Research found that malaria parasites have an inherent clock that drives their activity, resulting in cyclical fevers in humans. The parasite's gene expression patterns remained consistent despite changes in lighting conditions and host circadian rhythms.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScience·DateMay 14, 2020

Assessment of deaths from COVID-19, seasonal influenza

A recent study analyzed publicly available data on COVID-19 and seasonal influenza deaths, comparing mortality rates between the two. The research found that while both viruses cause significant morbidity, seasonal influenza was associated with a higher number of deaths compared to COVID-19.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 14, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Expandable foam for 3D printing large objects (video)

Researchers developed an expandable resin that can be used to print large objects with an inexpensive, commercially available 3D printer. The material expands upon heating, creating a porous, polystyrene foam-like material up to 40 times larger in volume than the original printed object.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 13, 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.

Trial E3311 validates a less intense treatment for HPV+ throat cancer

The trial found that reduced postoperative radiation therapy in intermediate-risk patients with HPV+ oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma is safe and effective, with very good oncologic outcomes. Patients at low risk had favorable two-year progression-free survival without postoperative therapy.

SourceECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group·DateMay 13, 2020

Minimum legal age for cannabis use should be 19, study suggests

A study found that an optimal minimum legal age of 19 for non-medical cannabis use balances the risk of adverse outcomes with the potential benefits. This age limit is lower than previously recommended ages, but higher than the current age of 18 in Canada.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateMay 13, 2020

Lidar technology demonstrates how light levels determine mosquito 'rush hour'

A recent study using lidar technology reveals that mosquitoes are most active during morning and evening hours in Tanzania, with males being 87 times more active than usual. This finding suggests that light levels affect mosquito behavior, creating opportunities for developing light-based measures to prevent malaria.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 13, 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.

Scientists successfully develop 'heat resistant' coral to fight bleaching

Researchers have successfully developed heat-resistant coral by bolstering the heat tolerance of its microalgal symbionts, potentially reducing the impact of reef bleaching from marine heat waves. The breakthrough provides a novel tool to increase coral tolerance and is a great win for Australian science.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 13, 2020

Atomically thin magnets for next generation spin and quantum electronics

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology have developed an atomically thin magnetic semiconductor that enables faster processing speed, less energy consumption and increased storage capacity. The material works at room temperature and can be integrated with existing semiconductor technology.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2020

American Journal of Preventive Medicine focuses on critical public health aspects of COVID-19

The American Journal of Preventive Medicine emphasizes the importance of addressing risks in correctional facilities and marginalized communities. Researchers outline guidelines to mitigate transmission and protect workers and prisoners, as well as caution about existing health disparities and potential exacerbation of stigma.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 13, 2020

Novel treatment using patient's own cells opens new possibilities to treat Parkinson's disease

A team of investigators from McLean Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital have successfully reprogrammed a patient's skin cells to replace lost brain cells in Parkinson's disease. The patient has shown significant improvements in daily activities and quality of life after receiving the treatment, which involves transplanting repl...

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 13, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

How plants forget

A team of scientists discovered that plants reset their epigenetic memory by removing the H3K27me3 histone mark from sperm, allowing seeds to remember only their mother's environment. This process is crucial for seed development and ensures proper flowering times.

SourceGregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant Biology·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 13, 2020

Signs of fetal alcohol syndrome detected in womb

Researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to detect fetal brain impairments in rhesus macaques exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. The study suggests that early detection of fetal-alcohol syndrome could lead to timely therapy and improved outcomes.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 13, 2020

Mucus breakthrough could help patients breathe easy

Researchers have discovered that trefoil factors, a type of protein, bind to mucin glycoproteins in the lungs, making mucus thicker and more viscous. This knowledge could lead to new therapeutics for treating chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and COPD.

SourceWalter and Eliza Hall Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 13, 2020

Effectiveness of programs to enhance aspects of wisdom

A comprehensive review of 57 studies involving 7,000 participants found that programs can effectively enhance the social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of wisdom. The study suggests that interventions targeting these areas can lead to improved mental health outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateMay 13, 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.

Secure land rights essential to protect biodiversity and cultures within indigenous lands

New research highlights the importance of legally protecting large indigenous territories in Brazil to preserve biodiversity, traditional livelihoods, and cultural heritage. Almost 90% of indigenous territories retain higher native vegetation cover than their surroundings, safeguarding over 100 million hectares of forests and savannahs.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalLand Use Policy·DateMay 13, 2020

First epigenetic study in 3D human cancer cells

A comprehensive epigenetic study on human tumor organoids reveals their potential as a reliable model for cancer research. The findings validate the use of these samples in biomedical research and pharmaceutical development, opening up new avenues for discovering anti-cancer treatments.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalEpigenetics·DateMay 13, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Causes of tinnitus

A team of researchers at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg has developed a computer-based model to explain chronic tinnitus. The model is based on stochastic resonance, which amplifies white noise in the brain to compensate for hearing loss and increased nerve cell activity.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateMay 13, 2020

Game plan for resumption of sport, exercise after COVID-19 infection

Researchers provide guidance on resuming intense exercise training after COVID-19 infection, emphasizing the importance of gradual progression and medical clearance. Athletes and highly active individuals can follow these recommendations to minimize risk of cardiac complications and return to sports safely.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMay 13, 2020

Yale researchers discover how HIV hides from treatment

Researchers at Yale University have discovered a molecular explanation for how HIV hides in immune system cells, allowing it to remain dormant and re-emerge. By understanding this process, scientists may develop new ways to control HIV infection.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 13, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

You cannot avoid microplastics

Researchers have found microplastics in air, drinking water, and table salt, highlighting the need for better understanding of their potential hazards to human health. Microplastics can be ingested through indoor air, especially from household plastic products, and may reach the lungs and digestive system.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 13, 2020

T. rex was a champion walker, super-efficient at lower speeds

Research finds giant T. rex relied on low-energy walking due to their massive size, contrary to previous focus on running speeds for theropod dinosaurs. The study analyzed limb proportions, body mass, and gaits of over 70 species, suggesting a trade-off between speed and efficiency in theropods.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 13, 2020

Dynamics of gut bacteria follow ecological laws

Researchers discovered mathematical relationships describing gut microbiome dynamics, including Taylor's power law and drift rates. These principles help identify abnormal bacterial behavior and predict how dietary changes affect microbiomes.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 13, 2020