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Science News for November 10, 2021


Study pinpoints molecular targets of transplant rejection

Researchers identified molecular targets of transplant rejection and developed a laboratory procedure to quantify donor-reactive T cells in mice. The study's findings could lead to improved immune monitoring of clinical transplant recipients and potentially replace invasive procedures like biopsies.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

AI helps design the perfect chickpea

A genetic model for the 'ultimate' chickpea has been developed using AI, identifying gene combinations that can lift crop yields by up to 12%. The research consortium mapped thousands of chickpea varieties and used AI to predict optimal genetics for seed weight.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Rapid COVID-19 tests using saliva could be easier alternatives

Researchers found that rapid antigen tests can detect COVID-19 in saliva samples with high sensitivity early in infection, but later in infection the tests lose sensitivity. Saliva-based tests may offer a more comfortable and convenient option for diagnosing COVID-19, especially in children or younger unvaccinated students.

SourceLund University·JournalInfection Ecology & Epidemiology·DateNov 10, 2021

New ways for dynamical prediction of extreme heat waves

Researchers have developed a new method that uses deep neural networks to predict extreme heat waves with unprecedented accuracy, up to two weeks before they occur. This breakthrough has significant implications for risk management, planning, and warning systems, which will greatly improve public safety and support public policies.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 10, 2021

Study uncovers mechanisms of drug side effects

A study at Weill Cornell Medicine reveals how drugs can affect membrane-spanning proteins, causing unwanted side effects. The researchers found that membrane-associated drugs can interact with these proteins in multiple ways, leading to changes in membrane characteristics.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2021

New feature adaptation of Github Discussions

A recent study by Shinshu University explores the early adoption of GitHub Discussions, revealing its utility for managing project discussions and identifying key factors for improvement, including guidelines for participation and encouraging core members.

SourceShinshu University·JournalEmpirical Software Engineering·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Combination immunotherapy improves survival for patients with asymptomatic melanoma brain metastases

A Phase II study shows that combination treatment with nivolumab and ipilimumab improves overall survival in patients with asymptomatic melanoma brain metastases, with an overall survival rate of 71.9% at three years. The treatment demonstrates durable responses, even in symptomatic patients.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 10, 2021

Two leading US physicians say doctors now need to screen and treat patients for exposure to air pollution

Two leading US physicians urge doctors to screen patients for exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, recommending interventions to limit exposure and improve cardiovascular health. Governments also have a primary responsibility to adopt technologies and regulations that reduce air pollution.

SourceBoston College·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 10, 2021

Does previous SARS experience help healthcare workers cope with COVID-19?

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that over half of surveyed healthcare workers reported PTSD symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic, regardless of previous SARS experience. Healthcare workers with prior SARS experience showed lower scores of PTSD and depression, but this effect disappeared after correcting for other factors.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateNov 10, 2021

Record-breaking rainfall in Asia prompts special curated journal issue

A record-breaking summer of flooding in eastern Asia prompted an international team to research and submit findings on the event to a special journal issue. The studies highlighted unusual behavior of an anti-cyclone and its connection to the Indian Ocean's warming, leading to persistent extreme rainfall.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 10, 2021

Improve recycling compliance by using this technique in PSAs

A University at Buffalo study found that a specific messaging strategy in PSAs increased recycling intention among New Yorkers who struggle with proper recycling. The research used the theory of planned behavior to develop an effective video, targeting those who feel uncertain about their own recycling abilities.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalEnvironment Development and Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Development of a curious robot to study coral reef ecosystems awarded $1.5 million by the National Science Foundation

The grant aims to build a robot that navigates complex environments and collects data over long periods, combining image collection and acoustic analysis to mimic a trained diver's curiosity. This will enable scientists to slowly build a detailed picture of ecosystem function and health, reducing the impact on animals' behavior.

New tests track sources of lead contamination in urban soils and assess its risks

Duke University scientists developed isotope-based tests to identify lead contamination origins and assess risk in urban soils. The new test can distinguish between legacy and modern sources of lead, helping public health officials track and remediate contaminated areas. Elevated lead levels pose long-term health risks for children.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

New target for COVID-19 vaccines identified

Researchers have discovered a new target for COVID-19 vaccines that could complement existing vaccines by inducing an immune response against 'replication proteins', essential for the viral cycle. The approach may lead to the creation of a pan-coronaviruses vaccine protecting against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Needle free glucose monitoring a step closer for diabetics

Auckland Bioengineering Institute researchers have demonstrated that a jet injector can release enough blood for glucose concentration measurement without pricking the skin. The study, published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, showed that most participants found the procedure less painful than a standard lancet prick.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Immunotherapy may yield longer treatment-free survival than targeted therapy in advanced renal cell carcinoma patients

Patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma treated with checkpoint inhibitor combination nivolumab plus ipilimumab experienced longer treatment-free survival compared to those receiving targeted therapy sunitinib. The analysis revealed significant differences in how patients spent their overall survival time between the two treatments.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 10, 2021

Apple chips moisture analysis made easy with near-infrared spectroscopy

A new study from the University of Illinois explores the use of near-infrared spectroscopy to measure moisture content in real-time during the drying process of coated and uncoated apple chips. The technology offers several advantages, including speed, accuracy, and sustainability, over traditional methods.

Adding sound to quantum simulations

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new device that brings sound to quantum science experiments, opening up new possibilities for studying solids and phases of matter. The device uses a precise cavity to hold an optical lattice of atoms, which vibrates at around 1 kHz, producing phonons - the building blocks of sound.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateNov 10, 2021

Tiny droplets offer glimpse of real life inside a living cell

Researchers at Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) have developed a system to study cellular reactions in a way that more closely reflects how molecules behave in a living cell. By mixing a polymer with protein, they created membraneless droplets that can mimic the molecular properties of how molecules move in the cell.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Parent-collected nose swabs are as good as nurse-collected nose swabs at detecting respiratory infections in children

A study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that parent-collected nose swabs outperform nurse-collected swabs in detecting respiratory infections in children, with high inter-rater agreement rates for viral and bacterial infections. The study's findings suggest that parents can collect high-quality samples, and this method may be ...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Disclosures on auditor firings are useless in forecasting restatement trouble, study shows

A new study from the University of Notre Dame finds that companies' disclosures about auditor firings are useless for assessing whether restatement trouble lies ahead. Instead, researchers recommend investors pay attention to when the disclosure comes out, with firings after the second fiscal quarter signaling an above-average chance o...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Accounting and Public Policy·DateNov 10, 2021

Researchers link pollution to cardiovascular disease, develop strategies to reduce exposure and encourage government intervention

Pollution has been linked to nine million deaths worldwide in 2019, with five million due to cardiovascular disease. The researchers emphasize the need for individual physicians to consider pollution as a risk factor when treating patients, and advocate for government-supported interventions to reduce exposure.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 10, 2021

Gamma ray discovery could advance understanding of UFOs’ role in the evolution of galaxies

Researchers detected gamma rays from ultra-fast outflows (UFOs) launched by supermassive black holes, providing a basis for understanding their role in regulating black hole growth and galaxy evolution. UFOs create shock waves that accelerate charged particles, influencing the surrounding matter and accelerating star formation.

SourceClemson University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 10, 2021

Nuclear radiation used to transmit digital data wirelessly

Researchers at Lancaster University successfully transferred digitally encoded information wirelessly using nuclear radiation, achieving 100% successful transmission tests. This novel approach uses fast neutrons, which can penetrate materials like metals, making it ideal for safety-critical scenarios and emergency rescue operations.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A Accelerators Spectrometers Detectors and Associated Equipment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

The gatekeepers of German business: How companies attain coveted key positions

A study by Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg reveals that mid-sized collaborations are crucial for companies to become gatekeepers in Germany's business network. These collaborations lead to improved innovation and profits. Large companies dominate the gatekeeper position, but smaller collaborations can also be beneficial.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalEuropean Management Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Study: Recommended approach for preventing blood clots after stent placement may not be as beneficial as once thought

A new study suggests that the recommended approach for preventing blood clots after stent placement may not be as beneficial as previously thought. The researchers found that the risks of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) may now outweigh its benefits for most patients, due to improvements in stent technology and changes in patient demo...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateNov 10, 2021

Zika virus-specific therapy protects the fetal mouse brain

A gene-silencing therapy harnessing nanoparticles called small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) for drug delivery has protected against Zika virus transmission in pregnant mice to the mouse fetuses. The treatment reduced fetal neurological damage, including virus-induced brain shrinkage.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Study shows how to debunk health misinformation

A new study from Karolinska Institutet shows that explicitly addressing falsehoods is more effective in busting misbeliefs than simply stating scientific facts. The study found that two communication campaigns using WhatsApp audio dramas significantly reduced participants' incorrect beliefs about typhoid and malaria.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 10, 2021

Southern Company signs agreement with US Department of Energy to demonstrate world’s first fast-spectrum salt reactor in collaboration with TerraPower, Idaho National Laboratory

The Molten Chloride Reactor Experiment will provide crucial operational data for fast-spectrum salt reactors and unlock this uniquely flexible advanced reactor technology for use in a net-zero future. The project represents a significant inflection point in the technology demonstration roadmap for TerraPower's MCFR.

TESS Detects Planet in Orbit Around Two Stars

Researchers detected a planet in a 200-day orbit around two stars using TESS data from just one sector over 27 days. The discovery was made possible by observing the planet's transits and eclipses, providing new insights into circumbinary planets.

SourceSETI Institute·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Uncovering racial disparities in nonfatal police shootings

A study of four US states finds that Black people are more likely to be nonfatally shot and injured by police, with disparities greater than seen for fatal shootings. The research highlights the need for comprehensive data on police shootings to draw reliable conclusions about racial disparities.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Tread lightly: ‘Eggshell planets’ possible around other stars

Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis have discovered a new type of exoplanet known as 'eggshell planets,' which are likely to have little topography and no plate tectonics. These planets may resemble the lowlands on Venus, with vast expanses of lava but little high-standing terrain.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 10, 2021

Researchers at UC Davis may have unlocked function of mysterious structure found on neurons

Researchers at UC Davis have discovered that mysterious protein clusters on neurons play a critical role in activating gene transcription and allowing neurons to produce crucial proteins. The clusters, known as calcium-signaling hotspots, are highly conserved across species and enable the process of excitation-transcription coupling.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

'Tuition myopia' may negatively impact students' financial future, study finds

A recent study by Indiana University Kelley School of Business reveals that students who choose low-cost, low-return colleges are more likely to default on their student loans and experience a higher chance of bankruptcy after graduation. In contrast, high-cost, high-return colleges result in lower lifetime income but also fewer defaults.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Time series study first to suggest that increased consumption of ultra-processed foods has environmental implications

A 30-year study in Brazil found that increased ultra-processed food consumption is linked to worsened environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions, water footprint, and ecological footprint. Experts warn that this trend may soon affect other countries due to growing economies and nutrition transitions.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2021

Quality measures don't match patient-reported outcomes in inpatient behavioral health

A study published in Journal for Healthcare Quality found that good performance on quality measures doesn't necessarily lead to improved symptoms and patient self-reported outcomes. The researchers suggest adding direct measures of patient improvement, such as symptom assessments, to enhance the current quality assessment framework.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal for Healthcare Quality·DateNov 10, 2021

Superfish

Fish schools operate like superorganisms, with individual fish optimized for maximum surveillance and energy efficiency. Researchers discovered a 'perfect efficiency curve' in tail beats, allowing schools to conserve energy while monitoring their surroundings.

Airborne Detection

Researchers at East Carolina University have discovered a new way to detect SARS-CoV-2 by testing air passing through building ventilation systems. The method revealed the presence of the virus in air samples with high accuracy, potentially leading to earlier detection and reduced transmission.

SourceEast Carolina University·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateNov 10, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns closed racial gap in exposure to air pollution in rural New York, new research shows

Research by Binghamton University economists found that COVID-19 lockdowns led to a significant improvement in air quality for minority neighborhoods in rural New York, narrowing the existing gap with majority white neighborhoods. The study suggests stronger regulation can improve air quality in polluted areas.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateNov 10, 2021

A salty treat: Extracting high-quality magnesium sulphate from seawater desalination brine

A team of Korean researchers has successfully extracted high-quality magnesium sulphate, without calcium impurities, from seawater desalination brine using a novel ethanol-based process. The process achieved up to 67% magnesium recovery efficiency and has potential applications in the pharmaceutical and food industry.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalDesalination·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Second wave of kids with MIS-C had more severe illness than first wave, according to new Children’s National Hospital study

A new prospective cohort study of 106 patients at Children’s National Hospital found that the second wave of kids with multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) had more severe illness compared to the first wave. Despite this, both cohorts had similarities in cardiac outcomes and length of stay.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal·DateNov 10, 2021

Identifying individual proteins using nanopores and supercomputers

Researchers from Delft University of Technology and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed a method to identify individual proteins with single-amino acid resolution, reducing errors to practically zero. Using DNA nanopores and supercomputer simulations, they characterized protein sequences with high accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 10, 2021

Major cities could be close to self-sustaining through fully integrated solar

A new study models the viability and impact of window-integrated photovoltaics at a city scale, showing that buildings in Melbourne could provide up to 74% of their own electricity needs through comprehensive adoption of existing rooftop PV technology. The researchers also highlight the potential for emerging solar windows and building...

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalSolar Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 10, 2021

When algorithms get creative

Researchers at the University of Bern have developed an approach called 'evolving-to-learn' (E2L) that enables computers to discover mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, leading to improved learning capabilities. The algorithm was tested in three scenarios and successfully solved new tasks by mimicking biological evolution.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournaleLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 10, 2021

New research helps explain the genetic basis for why we look the way we do

A new study published in Science Advances has shed light on the genetic basis of human appearance features by investigating the role of Hox genes. The researchers replaced the proboscipedia gene in a common laboratory fruit fly with its counterpart from a rarer Hawaiian cousin, revealing that Hox genes function as scaffolds for downstr...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

What’s in the water?

Researchers created a fine-grain understanding of how human wastewater affects coastal waters worldwide, mapping global sources and destinations of nitrogen. The study highlights the impact of modern diets on marine ecology and provides insights for local solutions to tackle a complex global problem.

Palmitic acid promotes cancer metastasis and leaves a more aggressive “memory” in tumour cells

A diet rich in palmitic acid makes tumor cells more aggressive and increases their metastatic capacity, a process that is responsible for 90% of cancer deaths. Exposure to palmitic acid leads to permanent epigenetic modifications in tumor cells, allowing them to conserve metastatic capacity even after the fatty acid is removed.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Adolescents are using social media to post about self-injury

Researchers found a significant rise in Instagram posts with hashtags related to self-injury, with nearly 110,000 posts in December compared to 58,000 at the start of 2018. The study also showed a connection between self-injury and depression, as well as suicide, highlighting the need for effective coping strategies and online monitoring.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal for the Advancement of Counselling·DateNov 10, 2021

COVID-19 forced a shift from healthy feeding practices by parents of young children

Parents of preschoolers used lower levels of structure and autonomy support during the COVID-19 pandemic, associated with negative parent mood and higher coercive control. The study suggests a need for public health advocates to support families in re-establishing healthy eating routines after the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalAppetite·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

UArizona Health Sciences study identifies breast cancer treatment disparities among Native American, indigenous women

A UArizona Health Sciences study found that American Indian and Alaska Native women with early-stage breast cancer had a higher percentage of mastectomy and a lower percentage of lumpectomy compared to white women. The study suggests that geographic and socioeconomic factors may contribute to these disparities.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Surgical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

New computer model is a key step toward low-temperature preservation of 3D tissues, organs

A new computer model developed by researchers at Oregon State University predicts the optimal vitrification method for preserving 3D tissues and organs at low temperatures. The model, which takes into account tissue size changes, could enable the cryopreservation of brain slices, pancreatic cells, and even whole organs.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 10, 2021

Intimate partner violence and reproductive coercion among American Indian and Alaska native women

A study published in Journal of Women's Health found that almost half of American Indian and Alaska Native women reported experiencing reproductive coercion in their lifetime. The research highlights the link between intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and poor reproductive health outcomes among this population.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Women s Health·TypeCase study·DateNov 10, 2021

Your heart 2.0

Researchers have developed AI-powered computer models to predict heart attacks, strokes, and stress-induced blood pressure changes. The models use machine learning to detect early signs of aortic valve anomalies, enabling at-home monitoring and improved diagnostic accuracy.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·DateNov 10, 2021

How do we learn to learn? New research offers an education

A new study on mice finds that cognitive training designed to focus on what's important while ignoring distractions can enhance the brain's information processing. The research suggests that this type of training can lead to improved learning and memory, particularly in novel tasks. By analyzing neural activity in the hippocampus durin...

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Whole genome sequencing improves diagnosis of rare diseases and shortens diagnostic journeys for patients, according to world first study

A world-first study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that whole genome sequencing can uncover new diagnoses for people with rare diseases. The pilot study analyzed 4,660 individuals and found a new diagnosis for 25% of participants, including 14% not detectable by other conventional methods.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 10, 2021

Immune system early responder can combat COVID-19

A new Yale School of Medicine study reveals that a simple RNA molecule called SLR14 can trigger the production of interferons, key proteins in the body's innate response to infection. The compound has shown promise in mice with chronic cases of COVID-19 and may provide important benefits for immunocompromised individuals.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 10, 2021

COVID-19 lockdowns deepened struggle for work-family balance

A new study by McGill University researchers found that COVID-19 lockdowns disproportionately affected graduate students' mental health, particularly among women. Women reported more stress related to remote teaching and caregiving responsibilities, leading to increased depressive symptoms.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Dalian Coherent Light Source demonstrates vibrationally excited molecular hydrogen production from water photochemistry

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics demonstrate vibrationally excited molecular hydrogen production from water photochemistry. This process represents a further source of vibrationally excited H2 observed in the interstellar medium.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 10, 2021

Researchers puncture explanation for largest increase of biodiversity in Earth's history

A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that the greatest increase in marine biodiversity on Earth occurred due to changes in climate cycles, rather than an asteroid explosion. Fossil analysis revealed a shift towards colder climates around 469 million years ago, leading to the blooming of marine life.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 10, 2021

Tiny bubbles: Researchers develop a flexible new system for creating soft robotics

Bubble casting is a new way to make soft robots using 'fancy balloons' that change shape in predictable ways when inflated with air. The researchers successfully cast star-shaped hands, coils and fingers, demonstrating the potential for soft robotics applications such as harvesting produce or providing personal care.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Catching the fog as it rolls in

Researchers develop efficient fog filter design using structured nylon nets to capture fog droplets, offering alternative source of fresh water in drought-stricken regions. The design is inspired by the unique abilities of Namib desert beetles and textile-based face masks.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 10, 2021