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Science News Archive May 2021 - Page 43


Page 43 of 47

Mantis shrimp eyes inspire six-color imaging platform for cancer surgery

Researchers have developed a six-color imaging platform inspired by mantis shrimp eyes to accurately label tumors in mice and visualize lymph nodes near breast cancer tumors. The system detected cancerous tissue in 92% of cases and successfully integrated into the operating room without disrupting surgeons' workflow.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 5, 2021

Medicaid enrollment during COVID-19 pandemic

The study analyzed changes in Medicaid enrollment for all 50 states and the District of Columbia during the first nine months of last year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Medicaid enrollment increased by 22% compared to the previous year, with a significant increase in new enrollments, totaling 5.4 million.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 5, 2021

Stirling experts develop artificial intelligence to monitor water quality more effectively

Researchers at the University of Stirling have developed a new algorithm that analyzes data from satellite sensors to estimate trophic state directly, improving monitoring of issues like harmful algal blooms. This method outperforms current approaches with an accuracy rate of over 90% for highly affected waters.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing·DateMay 4, 2021

People with disabilities faced pandemic triage biases

A new study found that unconscious biases in emergency triage protocols led to prioritization of able-bodied patients over those with intellectual disabilities. Social workers can act as advocates for these individuals, while educational changes are needed to address structural inequalities and biases.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalDisaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness·DateMay 4, 2021

Cayman Islands sea turtles back from the brink

Sea turtle nesting populations in the Cayman Islands have recovered significantly after conservation efforts, with loggerhead and green turtle numbers increasing dramatically. However, hawksbill turtle nest numbers remain low and populations still face threats including illegal hunting and artificial lighting on nesting beaches.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateMay 4, 2021

Examining the 'service cliff' for youth with autism and their family caregivers

A new study by Case Western Reserve University researchers highlights the need for improved access to Medicaid waivers for families affected by autism spectrum disorder. The study found that having a Medicaid waiver and high school enrollment were key predictors of youth with autism and their families using available services.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMay 4, 2021

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor suppresses immunity to oral cancer through immune checkpoint regulation

Researchers discovered that deleting the aryl hydrocarbon receptor from oral cancer cells results in a robust tumor-specific immune response, allowing mice to reject the cancer. This finding provides a new target for cancer immunotherapy treatment, potentially leading to more effective treatments.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2021

Machine learning accelerates cosmological simulations

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a technique using machine learning and high-performance computing to simulate complex universes in less than a day. The approach enables high-resolution cosmology simulations, advancing physics research and providing new insights into the universe's mysteries.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2021

Original investigation: When drug companies raise list prices, out-of-pocket costs for patients

A new study by Dr. Benjamin Rome and colleagues found that over half of patients experience increases in out-of-pocket costs when drug prices increase, with some patients facing 15% hikes. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed 79 brand-name drugs and found average out-of-pocket costs rose 3.5% from 2015 to 2017.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMay 4, 2021

U of A researchers successfully use 3-D 'bioprinting' to create nose cartilage

A team of University of Alberta researchers has discovered a way to use 3-D bioprinting technology to create functional cartilage in just four weeks, which can be used to restore nasal features in skin cancer patients. This method reduces the risk of complications and provides a more precise solution for reconstructive surgery.

HKUST scientists discover how antibiotics target bacterial RNAP to inhibit its gene transcription

A research team at HKUST has discovered the mechanism of DNA melting and how an antibiotic called Myxopyronin inhibits this process. The study found that Myxopyronin binds to a partially closed form of the flexible clamp domain, diminishing the gate's ability to close and eventually inhibiting DNA melting.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2021

Help for serious shopaholics

Researchers and clinicians now have evidence-based criteria to develop targeted interventions for this debilitating condition. Compulsive Buying-Shopping Disorder is characterized by excessive purchasing without utilising items for their intended purposes and using shopping to regulate internal states.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Behavioral Addictions·DateMay 4, 2021

Climate change impacts conservation sites across the Americas

A new study finds that a network of Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) in the Caribbean and Central and South America will remain robust under climate change. Despite predictions of species shifts, more than half of IBAs are projected to remain climatically suitable for 73% of conservation-concerned species.

SourceDurham University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMay 4, 2021