Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 21, 2021


New single-cell lineage tracing technique offers detailed insights into drivers of metastasis

A new method traces real-time cancer progression across thousands of cells, identifying rare events and distinct gene expression profiles associated with metastatic phenotypes. The approach could inform aspects of cellular cancer biology, including genetic mutations, microenvironment adaptation and resistance to therapeutic agents.

Diamonds need voltage

Researchers have found that tiny diamonds can form in the presence of small electric fields, which play a central role in their creation. The experiments conducted by the Russian research team showed that applying less than one volt triggers a chemical transformation process, resulting in pure carbon in the form of diamond.

Patients in cancer remission at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness

A new study from Penn Medicine reveals that patients with inactive cancer and not currently undergoing treatments are significantly more likely to experience severe COVID-19 illness. The research highlights the importance of COVID-19 mitigation measures, such as social distancing and mask-wearing, and vaccinations for all patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJNCI Cancer Spectrum·DateJan 21, 2021

Modified pain management strategy reduces opioid exposure to trauma patients, study shows

A new study by physician-researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston found that a modified pain management strategy reduced opioid exposure in trauma patients while maintaining equal levels of pain control. The MAST regimen, a multi-modal analgesic approach using over-the-counter medications, achieved this o...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 21, 2021

Study results show COVID-19 virus triggers antibodies from previous coronavirus infections

A study by Northern Arizona University and TGen found that COVID-19 may awaken an antibody response created in humans prior to the pandemic, suggesting pre-existing immunity. The research also identified cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and previous coronavirus infections, which could help design new diagnostics and vaccines.

SourceNorthern Arizona University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateJan 21, 2021

PTSD link to pandemic panic

A global study found that over 13% of participants developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related symptoms in response to the pandemic. The research highlights the need for comprehensive documentation of COVID-19-related traumatic stress reactions to help healthcare professionals support those affected.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 21, 2021

Positive messaging plays a key role in increasing COVID-19 mask compliance

Researchers found that positive messages about togetherness and unity were more appealing than fear-based or instructive messages. Participants wore masks frequently in public settings but not when physically distanced outside or alone, highlighting the importance of community safety as a motivation for mask-wearing.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 21, 2021

Researchers develop new graphene nanochannel water filters

Researchers at Brown University have created a new type of graphene nanochannel water filter that can efficiently remove contaminants from liquids. The VAGME membrane technology, developed by Robert Hurt and Muchun Liu, features narrow channels that allow small molecules to pass through while blocking larger ones.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2021

Alpha particles lurk at the surface of neutron-rich nuclei

A team of scientists has found evidence of alpha clusters in heavy nuclei, which challenges our understanding of neutron star structure and nuclear interactions. The discovery provides new insights into the process of alpha decay and has important implications for the study of neutron stars and their role in the universe.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2021

Much of Earth's nitrogen was locally sourced

Researchers found distinct nitrogen isotopic signatures in iron meteorites, suggesting the protoplanetary disk divided into two reservoirs within 300,000 years of its formation. This discovery challenges current understanding of volatile elements' origin and habitability of exoplanets.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateJan 21, 2021

New study on the role of monocytes in sarcoidosis

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a key role of monocytes in sarcoidosis, revealing they can be potent TNF producers and predict disease outcome. This breakthrough opens possibilities for identifying biomarkers and more effective treatment strategies, potentially reducing cases of chronic sarcoidosis.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateJan 21, 2021

Racial/ethnic disparities in unintentional EMS-attended opioid overdoses during COVID-19 pandemic

This observational study found significant racial and ethnic disparities in unintentional opioid overdose deaths among emergency medical services (EMS) patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study identified a higher risk of overdose deaths among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations compared to non-Hispanic White populations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 21, 2021

Effect of bamlanivimab as monotherapy or in combination with etesevimab on viral load in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19

Researchers investigated bamlanivimab's effects on mild to moderate COVID-19 patients, finding that higher doses of bamlanivimab significantly reduced severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 viral loads. Combination therapy with etesevimab also yielded promising results, highlighting its potential as a treatment option.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 21, 2021

The interconnection of global pandemics -- Obesity, impaired metabolic health and COVID-19

A recent study published in Nature Reviews Endocrinology highlights the interconnection between obesity, impaired metabolic health, and COVID-19 severity. The research found that obesity, visceral fatness, and impaired metabolic health are significant risk factors for a more severe course of COVID-19.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalNature Reviews Endocrinology·DateJan 21, 2021

Study reveals new insights into the link between sunlight exposure and kidney damage

A new study from researchers at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth has found that skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can trigger inflammatory processes in the kidney, even in normal, healthy mice. This subclinical injury may lead to pathologic consequences in lupus patients and worsen their clinical symptoms.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2021

How clicks on a job platform can reveal bias

Researchers analyzed millions of decisions made by recruiters on a popular job platform, revealing significant bias against immigrants and women. The study found that biases were more pronounced towards the end of the workday and in male-dominated professions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2021

Tough childhood damages life prospects

A new study by Uppsala University researchers found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have serious lifelong repercussions on people's lives and health. Couples who experienced ACEs had lower educational attainment, poor couple relationships, and higher rates of anxiety and depression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 21, 2021

Advances in modeling and sensors can help farmers and insurers manage risk

Recent advances in crop modeling and remote sensing can enhance the quality of index insurance programs, increasing the value that index insurance offers to agricultural households and communities. This approach enables inexpensive, quick coverage to many people who would otherwise be uninsured.

School-made lunch 'better' for children

Researchers at Flinders University suggest that a universal school-provided lunch model could ensure all children have access to healthy food, reduce stigma around food choices, and support learning. A study found that 40% of energy consumed by kids during school hours comes from unhealthy foods.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJan 21, 2021

Stanford: forecasting coastal water quality

The study presents a modeling framework that accurately predicts water quality at beaches after only a day or two of frequent water sampling. This approach could be used to monitor unmonitored coastal areas, protecting the well-being of beachgoers and thriving ocean economies worldwide.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 21, 2021

New technique to fast-track pain research

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new technique to replicate sensory neurons involved in pain sensation, providing ample resources for testing potential drugs. The technique allows for the easy generation of large numbers of cells, enabling the simultaneous testing of thousands of samples or potential drug libraries.

SourceFlinders University·JournalMolecular Pain·DateJan 21, 2021

Producing green hydrogen through the exposure of nanomaterials to sunlight

A research team has developed new nanostructured electrodes to split water molecules under sunlight, paving the way for efficient green hydrogen production. The electrodes, made with titanium dioxide and cobalt oxide, can absorb up to 50% of visible light and produce hydrogen through photocatalysis.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateJan 21, 2021

Rethink immigration policy for STEM doctorates

A new study from Cornell University and UC San Diego finds that international STEM doctoral students graduating from US universities face a complex and inefficient path to permanent residency, with most following a guest worker visa before obtaining a green card. The researchers argue that this process should be treated differently due...

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2021

Strange colon discovery explains racial disparities in colorectal cancer

African-Americans are more likely to develop cancerous lesions on the right side and suffer from colorectal cancer at a younger age due to unique biological aging patterns. The research found that the right side of the colon in most African-Americans had suffered epigenetic changes contributing to their increased cancer risk.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 21, 2021

Hand sanitizer-induced ocular injury

A case of accidental hand sanitizer contact with the eyes resulted in severe ocular injury in one child. The authors describe two cases of such accidents and highlight the importance of proper hand hygiene practices to prevent such incidents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJan 21, 2021

Study suggests coffee temporarily counteracts effect of sleep loss on cognitive function

A new study suggests that moderate coffee intake can help mitigate some repercussions of reduced sleep over a few days. The study found that caffeinated coffee drinkers showed better vigilance, alertness, and reaction-time compared to decaffeinated coffee drinkers during the initial three-to-four days of restricted sleep.

SourceKaizo·JournalProgress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry·DateJan 21, 2021

How cells 'eat' their own fluid components

Researchers have unraveled the mechanisms of how cells capture and degrade fluid droplets through autophagy. The study reveals that a tug-of-war between the droplet's surface tension and the isolation membrane's bending energy governs this process, with the outcome determining whether a piece or complete droplet is captured.

Solar system formation in two steps

A team of researchers discovered that the early Solar System formed in two distinct steps, resulting in different planetary compositions and evolutionary paths. The study explains why the inner planets are small and dry, while the outer planets are larger and wet.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience·DateJan 21, 2021

Opiate overdoses spike in black Philadelphians, but drop in white residents since COVID-19

A study found that fatal opioid overdoses increased by over 50% among Black individuals in Philadelphia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, white residents experienced a 31% drop in fatal overdoses during the same period. The research suggests that racial inequities worsened the opioid crisis, with factors such as economic hardshi...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 21, 2021

Electrons caught in the act

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have developed a technique to visualize ultrafast electron motion with sub-nanoscale spatial resolution, enabling the study of semiconductor device operation and potential defect control. This breakthrough may lead to more efficient electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalACS Photonics·DateJan 21, 2021

Children 'not scared' by PPE, says study

A new study from Alder Hey Children's Hospital found that children are not anxious or scared when wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in the anaesthetic room. In fact, most children reported feeling happy and safe with PPE, while none experienced anxiety or fear.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateJan 21, 2021

Fish sex organs boosted under high-CO2

Research found that some fish species exhibit larger gonads and increased reproductive output under elevated CO2 levels, leading to more offspring. Males and females adjust their behavior to optimize reproduction, with males foraging more and investing energy in egg care.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 21, 2021

Research finds people more likely to follow Covid rules when friends and family do

A recent study published in the British Journal of Psychology found that people are more likely to follow Covid-19 restrictions based on their close circle's behavior rather than their own principles. The researchers discovered that the best predictor of compliance was how much one's close friends and family were following the rules.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBritish Journal of Psychology·DateJan 21, 2021

Food insecurity spiked during early months of pandemic

A new study by the RAND Corporation found that food insecurity increased by nearly 80% in two predominantly African American neighborhoods during the first weeks of the coronavirus pandemic. This marked a reversal of decade-long trends, with disparities between these areas and the general US population reaching their highest levels.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 21, 2021

How to get more electric cars on the road

A new study from MIT researchers reveals that installing charging stations on residential streets and adding high-speed charging stations along highways can greatly increase the adoption of electric cars. The findings suggest that making convenient charging options available to people, especially those with limited access to garages or...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 21, 2021

Detailed tumour profiling

Researchers developed a platform to derive comprehensive molecular profiles of tumours, enabling personalized therapy recommendations and expanded treatment options. The Tumor Profiler study analyzed 240 patients' tumour samples using advanced testing methods, providing insights into cellular diversity and treatment response.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCancer Cell·DateJan 21, 2021

Study shows number and variety of issues experienced by staff wearing

A study by Dr Tom Hutley and colleagues found that the longer healthcare workers wear personal protective equipment (PPE), the more issues they experience, including tiredness, headaches, and dizziness. The survey also revealed a negative impact on team performance, with 92% of respondents feeling PPE affected communication.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateJan 21, 2021

Making protein 'superfood' from marine algae

A team of researchers at Flinders University has developed a sustainable way to produce protein 'superfoods' from marine algae. The process involves cultivating single-cell organisms from the ocean and converting them into healthy cell patties, chips, pastes, jams, and even caviar.

SourceFlinders University·JournalInternational Journal of Biological Macromolecules·DateJan 21, 2021

Crystal close up

Researchers use novel techniques to observe salt crystal formation at the atomic level for the first time. The study confirms theoretical predictions about crystal formation and provides insight into polymorphism in crystal growth.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 21, 2021

NIH study compares low-fat, plant-based diet to low-carb, animal-based diet

A small, highly controlled study at the National Institutes of Health compared the effects of a low-fat, plant-based diet to a low-carb, animal-based diet on calorie intake, hormone levels, body weight, and more. Participants lost weight on both diets, but only the low-fat diet led to a significant loss of body fat.

Teamwork in a molecule

Chemists at the University of Jena have successfully created a bimetallic main-group complex using gallium, demonstrating cooperative bond activation that can remove fluorine atoms from hydrocarbon compounds. The breakthrough paves the way for further development of sustainable catalytic reactions.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 21, 2021

Gold nanoparticles more stable by putting rings on them

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a method to prevent gold nanoparticles from clumping, which could improve their effectiveness as anti-cancer therapy. Attaching ring-shaped synthetic compounds to gold nanoparticles retains their light-absorbing properties and maintains dispersion in solution.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2021

Ten suggestions for female faculty and staff during the pandemic

During the pandemic, female academics are sharing their experiences and advice on managing work-life balance while juggling caregiving responsibilities. The authors suggest finding peer support groups, saying no to non-essential tasks, and prioritizing self-care. They also emphasize the importance of recognizing individual differences ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 21, 2021