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Science News for November 15, 2021


Trial stopped early: Giving immunotherapy before targeted therapy improves survival in advanced melanoma

A clinical trial found that giving immunotherapy before targeted therapy improves survival in advanced melanoma patients, with a two-year overall survival rate of 72% compared to 52%. The study suggests that immunotherapy should be the initial approach for treating metastatic melanoma patients, regardless of BRAF mutation status.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2021

Solo seniors with social support are less likely to need nursing home care

A new UCSF study shows that solo seniors with social support are less likely to need nursing home care. Older adults who said they could count on a friend or relative for assistance in the event of a health crisis reduced their risk of institutional care from 14.2% to 10.9%. The study found that many older adults can take care of thems...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateNov 15, 2021

Liquid fuels from carbon dioxide

A team of Chinese researchers has developed an electrocatalyst that efficiently converts CO2 into liquid fuels with multiple carbon atoms. The primary products are ethanol, acetone, and n-butanol, which have high energy density and are safe to store and transport.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Rice lab first to mimic molecule found in poppies

A Rice University undergraduate student and her mentor have synthesized the first molecule found in poppies, setigerumine I, using a three-step process at room temperature. The environmentally friendly method produced 20 milligrams of the rare extract, which could be a potential precursor for non-addictive painkillers.

SourceRice University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Sierra Nevada range should celebrate two birthdays

The Sierra Nevada mountain range in California has a complex history, with two distinct periods of formation. The ancient range was formed around 100 million years ago as a volcanic chain, but was later dwarfed by a vast plateau. Volcanic activity around 40 million to 20 million years ago lifted the Earth's surface, forming new mountai...

SourceStanford University·JournalGeological Society of America Special Papers·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2021

Prions may channel RNA’s messages

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new mechanism by which prions can regulate protein synthesis in cells. The model proposes that prion aggregates and their monomers play a role in channeling RNA messages into new proteins, forming organized protein synthesis factories. This discovery has implications for our understandin...

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 15, 2021

Mount Sinai cardiologist develops new risk score to help predict possible contrast-associated kidney injury after percutaneous coronary intervention

A new risk score developed by Mount Sinai researchers can help predict possible contrast-associated acute kidney injury among patients undergoing PCI. The 'Mehran-2 CA-AKI Risk Score' enhances management of high-risk patients before, during, and after the procedure.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Hubble tension: Showing the cracks in Gaussian Processes

Researchers Eoin Ó Colgáin and Mohammad Mehdi Sheikh-Jabbari found that the approach may not be universally applicable across all models. Their study evaluates Gaussian Processes using the Hubble constant, highlighting a mismatch between smaller-scale and overall measurements.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal C·DateNov 15, 2021

Keeping chocolate milk smooth, stable without carrageenan

A team of Penn State researchers used high-pressure jet technology to enhance the viscosity and stability of fat-free chocolate milk, eliminating the need for carrageenan. The study found that structural changes in casein micelles and new casein-cocoa interactions induced by the processing method increased cocoa stability.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateNov 15, 2021

After 70 years, advanced carbon-based magnetic material finally synthesized

Osaka University researchers have successfully synthesized a stable, crystalline nanographene with predicted magnetic properties, opening the door to revolutionary advances in electronics and magnets. The breakthrough uses a simplified model system called triangulene, which has long been elusive due to polymerization issues.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Simple surgical technique associated with significant reduction in the risk of atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery

A new study found that a simple surgical technique called posterior left pericardiotomy significantly reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The procedure, which involves draining excess fluid and small clots from the heart sac, was associated with a 56% lower incidence of irregular heart rhythm...

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 15, 2021

High impact climate events: Better adaptation through earlier prediction

A new prediction framework can forecast extreme climate events like floods and heatwaves up to two days in advance, allowing for crucial preparation time. This network-based approach analyzes large-scale connectivity patterns in observational data to improve forecasting accuracy.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 15, 2021

Tian & Wang to receive funding for project focused on securing multi-access edge computing using artificial intelligence

George Mason University researchers Zhi Tian and Yue Wang are securing $125,000 in funding from the Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority to develop an artificial intelligence-based solution for multi-access edge computing. The project aims to enhance network security and improve efficiency of collaborative machine learning.

Cannabis use during pregnancy impacts the placenta and may affect subsequent child development

Research conducted by Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that cannabis exposure in utero can lead to higher levels of anxiety, aggression, and hyperactivity in children. Placental gene expression also shows lower immune-activating genes, predicting these outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Texas Heart Institute presents paradigm-shifting, late-breaking heart failure therapy research at the American Heart Association annual meeting

Researchers at the Texas Heart Institute have made significant breakthroughs in treating persistent heart failure with a novel stem cell therapy. The phase 3 clinical trial results show that this treatment has the potential to alter the natural history of heart disease, reducing hospitalizations and improving patient outcomes.

SourceTexas Heart Institute·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Applying systems biology to aging research: AFAR recognizes Junyue Cao of Rockefeller University with 2021 Sagol Network Geromic Award for Junior Faculty

The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) has awarded the 2021 Sagol Network GerOmic Award to Junyue Cao, PhD, Assistant Professor at The Rockefeller University. Dr. Cao's project aims to profile single-cell molecular dynamics in aging tissues using high-throughput techniques.

Ludwig Lausanne team devises a method to selectively grow tumor-targeting T cells for cancer therapy

Researchers have devised a new method, NeoScreen, to generate large numbers of immune cells specifically engineered to recognize neoantigens and destroy tumors. This approach significantly improves the identification of patient-specific neoantigens, holding promise for the development of personalized immunotherapies.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateNov 15, 2021

Show me, don’t tell me: Operational transparency increases trust, support of government

A new study by Harvard Business School researchers found that increased operational transparency leads to higher levels of trust and engagement with government. By providing photographs of government addressing service requests, users submitted 60% more requests than those without visual cues.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2021

Weekly electronic reporting of symptoms improves care for patients with advanced cancer

A nationwide study found that patients who reported their symptoms weekly using a digital tool received more timely treatment, leading to improved physical function, symptom control, and quality of life. The PRO-TECT trial showed statistically significant improvements over the current standard of care.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2021

New technology improves antibiotic treatment decisions

Zheng's sensor can determine effective antibiotics for treating bacterial infections in patients, providing detailed information about microbial growth faster and more sensitively than conventional approaches. The device achieves single-cell spatial resolution and 15-second temporal resolution over a centimeter-scale field of view.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine effective in patients with lung cancer results from a French study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology

A new study found that SARS-CoV2 vaccines are safe and effective in patients with thoracic cancer, with an 88% immunization rate after a third dose. The study also showed that older age, chemotherapy, and corticosteroid treatment were associated with lower immunization rates.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·TypeCase study·DateNov 15, 2021

Neurobiologists identify a new gene important for healthy daily rhythms

A new gene called Tango10 has been identified as critical for daily behavioral rhythms, modulating the activity of neurons to drive the animal's sleep-wake cycle. The study suggests that targeting this molecular pathway could lead to therapeutics to address sleep problems and related human diseases.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Budtenders, healthcare providers seek more training as cannabis use rises sharply in perinatal women

A study found that budtenders and healthcare providers are seeking more training on interacting with pregnant and breastfeeding women about their cannabis use. Healthcare providers have a negative opinion of the effects of cannabis use, while budtenders perceive marijuana as a safer alternative to perinatal alcohol or cigarette use.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 15, 2021

Common blood pressure drug does not slow down the progression of more advanced Alzheimer’s, study finds

A phase 2 clinical trial found that losartan, commonly used to treat high blood pressure, did not significantly slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease in people with mild-to-moderate symptoms. However, the drug may still be beneficial for those with early-stage disease if prescribed for longer periods.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2021

Researchers discover new insights about tau proteins in people living with ALS

A study published in Brain Pathology found elevated levels of tau protein in the brains of people with ALS who carry a mutation in the C9orf72 gene. The researchers also identified new genetic mutations in the tau gene and discovered that the ratio of different forms of tau protein may be an indicator of disease progression.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalBrain Pathology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Medical training takes a mental toll, but less than a decade ago

A 13-year study tracked the mental health of new doctors during their most stressful time, showing a significant reduction in depression scores over the past decade. The study suggests that reduced work hours, increased sleep, more feedback from supervisors, and greater use of mental health care contributed to this change.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2021

Woodrat microbiomes: It’s who you are that matters most

A University of Utah team analyzed woodrat gut bacteria and found that evolutionary history plays the greatest role in shaping microbiome structure. Diet and geography also influenced microbiome composition, but host relatedness was the strongest predictor in both wild and captive populations.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

COVID patients on SSRI antidepressants are less likely to die, UCSF-Stanford study finds

A large US-based analysis of electronic health records found that people taking SSRI antidepressants, particularly fluoxetine, were significantly less likely to die from COVID-19. The results add to evidence suggesting SSRIs may have beneficial effects against the worst symptoms of COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 15, 2021

As we develop, the brain connects lessons learned differently

A new study found that adults and children make inferences about connections between experiences in different ways. Children create separate memories and compare them to make inferences, while adults build integrated memories with inferences already baked in. This difference may be due to differences in brain development and maturation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Where does gold come from? — New insights into element synthesis in the universe

Researchers used computer simulations to investigate the conversion rates of neutrons and protons in accretion disks surrounding black holes, finding that disks with masses between 0.01 to 0.1 solar masses are optimal for heavy element production. This suggests that neutron star mergers producing such disks could be the origin of a lar...

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 15, 2021

Researchers target a mouse’s own cells, rather than using antibiotics, to treat pneumonia

Researchers at NIH have discovered a therapy that targets host cells rather than bacterial cells in treating bacterial pneumonia. By boosting macrophage eating capacity using EETs inhibitors, they reduced bacteria numbers in lung tissue and improved treatment outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Ultra-large single-crystal WS2 monolayer

Researchers develop new epitaxial growth mechanism to achieve large-scale single-crystal WS2 monolayers, overcoming a crucial hurdle in replacing silicon with 2D materials. The technique enables uniform alignment of small crystals and leads to the successful growth of wafer-scale single-crystals of WS2, MoS2, WSe2, and MoSe2.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Artificial intelligence–based method predicts risk of atrial fibrillation

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed an AI-based method to predict atrial fibrillation risk based on electrocardiogram data. The method was highly predictive, especially in subsets of individuals with prior heart failure or stroke, and could serve as a pre-screening tool for patients at risk.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCirculation·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 15, 2021

Automated texting system saved lives weekly during first COVID surge

Researchers found that patients enrolled in COVID Watch, an automated texting system, were 68% less likely to die than those not using it. The system used algorithmically guided text message conversations with patients and was credited with saving 1.8 lives per 1,000 patients at 30 days.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2021

Promising discovery: D-glyceric acid activates cellular mitochondria and reduces low-grade inflammation in aging humans

A study found that D-glyceric acid treatment improved metabolism, blood parameters, and reduced low-grade inflammation in healthy volunteers aged 50-60 years. The compound's activation of mitochondrial metabolism may help interrupt the spiral of persistent systemic inflammation and improve liver function.

Where COVID-19's death grip slipped (briefly)

Researchers found that COVID-19 mortality rates were significantly lower in rural Bangladesh compared to other countries, with only 276 deaths reported between February and October 2020. This contrasted with a 10% increase in urban areas. The study suggests that the region's unique circumstances may have contributed to this outcome.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

New evidence identified on safety of IVF embryo screening method

Researchers at the University of Kent identified strong evidence-based benefits of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) in IVF. Live birth rates per embryo transferred and per treatment cycle were significantly higher with PGT-A compared to regular IVF, especially in women over 40.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Who bought firearms during 2020 purchasing surge?

A Rutgers study of 3,500 adults found that those who bought firearms during the 2020 purchasing surge tend to be more sensitive to threats and have less emotional control. This suggests that individuals prone to impulsivity may buy firearms as a coping mechanism for stress.

SourceRutgers University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 15, 2021

Recognize every miscarriage as a bereavement, UK government urged

The UK government is being called on to recognize every miscarriage as a bereavement, rather than an illness, and award statutory bereavement leave. This would provide parents with up to 1 week of paid leave after a miscarriage, regardless of gestation, and address the current arbitrary cliff edge at 24 weeks.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 15, 2021

Serious mental illness? There’s an app for that

A fully remote randomized controlled trial found that a smartphone app called CORE reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and improved recovery in people with serious mental illness. The app provided daily game-like exercises to help users reassess their beliefs and adopt healthier thought patterns.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 15, 2021

Scientists identify second HIV patient whose body appears to have rid itself of the virus

Researchers have identified a second person living with HIV who appears to have rid themselves of the virus, with no intact HIV genomes found in over 1.19 billion blood cells and 500 million tissue cells sequenced. This finding may represent a sterilizing cure for people with HIV who cannot achieve this on their own.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Experimental demonstration of negative refraction at visible frequency

Researchers at POSTECH demonstrate experimental demonstration of negative refraction at visible frequency for the first time, achieving high-resolution images beyond diffraction limit. The study uses a vertical hyperbolic metamaterial to exhibit negative refraction in entire visible domain, overcoming limitations of conventional materi...

Africa's "Green Wall" also makes economic sense

A study by the University of Bonn shows that building Africa's 'Green Wall' is economically worthwhile due to its long-term provisioning services, such as food and water production. However, the project faces challenges in regions plagued by conflicts, which limit its potential.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 15, 2021

Dreaming of being an investment shark? Better figure out if you’re an ‘owl’ or a ‘lark,’ study finds

Researchers found that individuals who evaluate investments at a time that conflicts with their natural internal clock tend to make poor choices, resulting in potential losses. The study suggests that matching one's circadian rhythm with investment timing can lead to more successful outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalJournal of Business Venturing·TypeSurvey·DateNov 15, 2021

Solvent effect on liquid-phase synthesis of lithium solid electrolytes

The study investigates the effect of solvent on liquid-phase synthesis of lithium solid electrolytes. The research team found that solvents with high dielectric constants enhance reactivity and lead to crystalline Li7P3S11 with high conductivity. Acetonitrile emerges as the best solvent for mass production of sulfide solid electrolytes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021