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Science News for August 26, 2021


A solid favor for researchers: A new way to investigate the electric double layer effect

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science develop a new methodology to investigate the elusive electric double layer (EDL) effect in all-solid-state batteries. The study reveals that the EDL effect is dominated by the electrolyte's composition and can be suppressed through charge compensation, leading to improved performance.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Lewis Katz School of Medicine researchers awarded prestigious grant from the NIH's Martin Delaney collaboratories for HIV cure research program

Researchers at Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine have been awarded a prestigious grant from the National Institutes of Health to develop novel treatments for individuals living with HIV using CRISPR technology. The $4.8M grant will fund four major research laboratories working towards eliminating HIV DNA from infected c...

Pfizer jab side effects in 12-15 year olds at high risk of COVID-19 complications, mild to moderate

A small study of 27 children aged 12-15 with neurological conditions found the Pfizer jab's side effects were mild to moderate and cleared up within a week. The vaccination was taken by parents who believed their children were at high risk of COVID-19 disease, highlighting its benefits in vulnerable groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Science-backed tips for maximizing play time with kids

Research highlights six core pillars of learning: active, engaged, meaningful, socially interactive, iterative, and joyful. Experts offer practical advice on transforming everyday spaces into playful learning environments that support children's growth.

SourcePenn State·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeCase study·DateAug 26, 2021

Symptomatic COVID patients are more contagious

A new study by researchers at the University of Georgia found that symptomatic COVID-19 patients are more contagious than asymptomatic cases. The study identified a high-risk transmission window between two days before and three days after symptom onset, supporting interventions like contact tracing and masking.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateAug 26, 2021

New method visualizes blood flow in the brain down to 1 blood cell

Researchers have developed a dye-free method to visualize blood flow in the brain, allowing for detailed mapping of small capillaries and assessing blood flow rates. The technique has potential applications in understanding cardiovascular diseases, tumor growth, and targeted drug delivery.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Bidding on a better future

Co-authors James Salzman, Andrew Plantinga, and Christopher Costello propose changing the 'use it or lose it' stipulation in public resource laws. This would allow non-extractive interests to compete with traditional extractive interests in bidding for licenses and permits, potentially increasing biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Environmental pollution may contribute to racial/ethnic disparities In Alzheimer’s disease risk, says new study

A recent study found that fine particle pollution, specifically PM2.5, may contribute to the disproportionate number of African American women affected by dementia. Despite adjusting for various risk factors, Black women still had double the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to white women.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Taking the pain out of kidney stone analysis

A team of scientists has reported a technique that provides the most detailed picture of kidney stone components yet. The researchers used a novel method to analyze kidney stones, revealing the distribution of three different proteins and their role in crystal growth.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Forensic anthropological work dealing with ancestry may mistakenly support the idea that racial differences are biological

A new study examines the use of terminology in forensic anthropology, finding that research often fails to critically address racial and social constructs. The study suggests that using alternative terms like 'ancestry' can help reduce the perpetuation of white supremacy and biomedical claims based on biological differences.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalForensic Anthropology·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 26, 2021

Families estimated to lose $18,000 a year in wages when they have to cut work hours or leave a job to care for their child’s health

A study of 14,000 families found that those caring for children with chronic health conditions lost an average of $18,000 per year in household income. Foregone family employment was reported by nearly 15% of families and was more common among younger caregivers and those living in poverty.

Study confirms virus variants reduce protection against COVID-19

A new study by OHSU researchers found that blood serum from vaccinated or infected individuals shows significantly reduced defense against two widely circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants. The findings emphasize the importance of vaccinations combined with maintaining public health measures to cut off the spread of the virus.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

How migraines protect against diabetes

Researchers found that certain peptides associated with migraine pain can regulate insulin production in mice, potentially preventing type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that these peptides could be developed into therapeutic strategies to control blood sugar levels, while minimizing the risk of migraines.

Artificial intelligence re-stained images of tissue biopsy expedite diagnoses

Researchers at UCLA have developed a computational technique powered by artificial intelligence that transforms images of tissue previously stained with H&E into new ones with added special stains. The process takes less than one minute per tissue sample, significantly improving diagnoses in medical conditions such as organ transpl...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

New research: The internet does not turn people into trolls – it just makes real-life trolls more visible

A new study published in American Political Science Review finds that those prone to hostility in offline discussions are also hostile online. The researchers suggest that increasing the visibility of aggressive behavior online can exacerbate online hostility, rather than removing it through education or moderation.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·TypeSurvey·DateAug 26, 2021

When humans disturb marine mammals, it’s hard to know the long-term impact

A new study from the University of California, Santa Cruz, develops a comprehensive framework to determine when short-term changes in behavior caused by human activities have biological significance. The framework highlights the importance of life history traits and specific characteristics of disturbances in assessing vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 26, 2021

Precipitation in central Asia shaped by sea surface temperature over tropical pacific and north Atlantic: Study

Researchers from the Institute of Atmospheric Physics found that tropical Pacific decadal variability and Atlantic multidecadal variability drive Central Asian precipitation changes. Warmer SSTs in these regions favor wetter conditions, especially in southern and northern parts of Central Asia.

Keeping it random

Scientists created a reliable true random number generator using atomically thin two-dimensional films, overcoming long-term stability issues and power consumption concerns. The innovation uses memristors to produce fluctuating electronic signals with an exceptionally high degree of randomness.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

City of Hope study suggests adding the drug berzosertib to standard treatment for metastatic bladder cancer does not benefit patients

A Phase 2 trial found that combining cisplatin, gemcitabine, and berzosertib did not prolong progression-free survival in patients with urothelial cancer. The study suggests that berzosertib may have a negative impact on bone marrow, leading to reduced white blood cells and platelets.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Eye in the sky

The team used machine learning technique generative adversarial networks to digitally remove clouds from aerial images, generating accurate datasets of building image masks. This work may help automate computer vision jobs critical to civil engineering, enabling the detection of buildings in areas without labeled training data.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

Breakthrough in sizing nanoparticles using fluid-filled tubes

Scientists from the University of Melbourne and MIT have discovered a simple mechanical tube method to measure nanoparticle mass and size simultaneously. This breakthrough enables the simultaneous measurement of these properties, which is crucial for various applications such as drug delivery and nano-optics.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

A new model for group decision-making shows how 'followers' can influence the outcome

Researchers developed a mathematical framework that captures the influence of multiple interactions among group members. The model predicts that social learners can impair collective performance if they are above a certain threshold, and committed minorities can be bolstered by these social learners.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 26, 2021

Plants evolved ability to actively control water-loss earlier than previously thought

Scientists have discovered that ferns can actively close their stomata in response to low humidity or the hormone ABA, similar to flowering plants. This finding confirms that the earliest land plants were able to control water loss through stomata, providing valuable insights into plant evolution and climate change adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Cystic Fibrosis – Increasing numbers of patients benefit from improved treatment

A clinical trial has shown that a triple combination therapy consisting of elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor is safe and effective in cystic fibrosis patients with rare genetic defects. The treatment improves CFTR function, lung function, and quality of life in these patients.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Engineers create double layer of borophene for first time

Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully created a double layer of atomically flat borophene, a feat that defies the natural tendency of boron to form non-planar clusters. The material maintains its electronic properties while offering new advantages, including potential applications in energy and chemical storage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Extreme precipitation has increased significantly in arid Northwest China

Researchers found extreme precipitation events are the primary contributor to total precipitation in Northwest China. The region's westerly and plateau zones have seen a significant increase in EPE frequency and occurrence, starting earlier and lasting later. In contrast, monsoon regions of Southeast China experience opposite trends.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateAug 26, 2021

Study identifies nearly 600 genetic loci associated with anti-social behavior, alcohol use, opioid addiction and more

A genome-wide association study has identified 579 locations in the genome linked to self-regulation disorders, including addiction and child behavioral problems. The study found a significant genetic risk score that predicts various life outcomes, such as education levels, obesity, and opioid use disorder.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 26, 2021

Inflammatory proteins help better diagnose progression of Alzheimer’s disease

A Rutgers study found that testing for specific inflammatory proteins can help diagnose the earlier onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers identified two proteins, TNFR1 and TREM2, which are associated with slower decline in early-stage Alzheimer's, while another protein is only useful once dementia sets in.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Female hummingbirds avoid harassment by looking as flashy as males

Researchers found that over a quarter of female white-necked Jacobin hummingbirds exhibit showy colors similar to males, aiding in evasion of aggressive behaviors during feeding and mating. This study suggests that the display of flashy colors is driven by social selection rather than sexual selection.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

JNCCN study reveals neuroendocrine tumor mortality patterns to inform treatment decisions

A population-based cohort study in Canada identified mortality patterns for different types of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), revealing varying risks of cancer-related and non-cancer death. The study found that small NETs can be safely monitored, while larger tumors may require more aggressive treatment.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2021

Probiotics prove effective in treating antibiotics-induced dysbiosis in mice

A study by Kazan Federal University found that probiotics administered to antibiotic-treated mice improved behavior, reduced oxidative stress, and restored gut microbiota diversity. The researchers demonstrated a strong link between the gut microbiota and brain functioning, with potential therapeutic benefits for treating dysbiosis-rel...

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalLife·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Cost of raising a child with rare genetic disorder significant but could be reduced by earlier diagnosis

A new study found that the economic burden of caring for children with rare genetic disorders such as Fragile X syndrome and Chromosome 15 imprinting disorders is significant. Earlier diagnosis and targeted interventions could reduce yearly costs by up to $734, depending on the child's intellectual functioning.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

New study: Heat stress in dairy cows damages health of calves

A new study found that heat stress in pregnant dairy cows reduces fetal growth and influences the performance and immune development of offspring. Calves born to heat-stressed cows have lower birth weights, organ weights, and higher rates of cell death, suggesting compromised placental and fetal development.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Discovery of two-phase superconductivity in CeRh2As2

The discovery of two-phase superconductivity in CeRh2As2 reveals the material has the highest critical magnetic field to transition temperature ratio of any known superconductor. Researchers found a clear transition between two different order parameters as the applied field is raised, leading to unique thermodynamic properties.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Ending prices with “.99” can backfire on sellers

A new study from Ohio State University found that pricing just below a round number can lead consumers to perceive a product as cheaper and less likely to upgrade. This threshold-crossing effect was observed in various experiments, including coffee stands and car purchases.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Development of Cd-Free Quantum Dot Synthesis Technology for overcoming the limitations of existing technology

Prof. Jong-Soo Lee's team creates green-emitting Cd-Free quantum dots with high color reproduction performance, suitable for HDR in ultra-high definition displays. The material has higher color purity and photostability than other luminescent materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

University of Kentucky study: Healthy dietary intake associated with lower brain iron, better cognition in older adults

A University of Kentucky study found that higher intake of specific nutrients is associated with lower brain iron concentration and better cognitive performance in older adults. The research team evaluated the relationship between nutritional intake, brain iron, and cognitive performance in a group of healthy, older adults.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

From couch to ultra-marathon – mental imagery technique can aid running challenge completion

A new study published in the Journal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity found that functional imagery training (FIT) significantly reinforced a person's motivation to complete a challenging goal. FIT, developed at the University of Plymouth, teaches people new ways of thinking about their immediate future to help them s...

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 26, 2021

Deleting DNA to treat mitochondrial diseases

Scientists at Kyoto University developed a chemical compound that can tag and remove mutant DNA sequences from mitochondria, potentially treating mitochondrial diseases. The approach overcomes existing problems with genetic material injection and antioxidant drugs.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateAug 26, 2021

Altered Functional Brain Network Connectivity Associated with Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress in COVID-19 Survivors, Study Shows

A recent study found COVID-19 survivors exhibit abnormal patterns of brain connectivity associated with increased post-traumatic stress symptoms. The research team discovered three distinct states of functional connectivity in the brains of COVID-19 survivors, which are linked to symptom severity.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNeurobiology of Stress·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2021