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Science News for November 22, 2021


How well do wet masks contain droplets?

Researchers found that wet masks make it more difficult for respiratory droplets to penetrate and escape the mask, splintering into smaller aerosolized particles. This is because wet masks create additional resistance due to their hydrophobic or hydrophilic materials, making them more effective at stopping droplet penetration.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Fluids·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Microrobots for treating neurological diseases through intra-nasal administration

Researchers developed a magnetically powered microrobot for minimally invasive delivery into brain tissue via the intranasal pathway, overcoming limitations in traditional stem cell therapy. The new method is expected to bring possibilities for treating various intractable neurological diseases.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateNov 22, 2021

Snow cover critical for revegetation following high-severity forest fires, OSU study shows

A new OSU study found that snow cover plays a critical role in post-fire revegetation in the Pacific Northwest. Summer precipitation was the most important variable driving this process across four subregions, while snow cover frequency and prefire forest composition were also significant influencers.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Biogeosciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 22, 2021

Giving social support to others may boost your health

A new study from Ohio State University suggests that giving social support to others is essential for boosting one's health. The research found that people who were available to provide social support experienced lower inflammation levels, whereas those who only received support did not show the same benefits.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBrain Behavior and Immunity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 22, 2021

Inadequate sleep is bad for preteens’ brains

A study from Boston Children's Hospital found that inadequate sleep can jeopardize brain organization in early adolescence, leading to deficits in cognitive processes such as attention, reward, and memory. The research identified racial disparities in the impact of sleep on brain networks, with non-white participants experiencing dispr...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalCerebral Cortex Communications·DateNov 22, 2021

Logistical Herculean tasks

A team of researchers developed a sophisticated study design to investigate the effects of climate change and land use on species diversity. The design allowed for the selection of 179 study sites across Bavaria, taking into account various factors such as habitat size, distance to other habitats, and land use patterns.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateNov 22, 2021

Before geoengineering, some fundamental chemistry

A new study suggests that atmospheric conditions in the stratosphere pose a challenge to generating sulfuric acid, a crucial component of a proposed geoengineering strategy to mitigate climate change. Researchers found that solar radiation causes HOSO2 to quickly photolyse, breaking it down into harmful sulfur dioxide, which may reduce...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2021

Activation of a key protein that allows glioblastoma cells to complete apoptosis

Researchers have discovered a substance derived from the cotton plant, gossypol, which enhances the activity of DFF40/CAD, allowing glioblastoma cells to complete apoptosis. This breakthrough treatment shows promise in promoting cell death and may provide new tools for developing effective strategies against this incurable disease.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCancers·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

COVID-19 testing kits also can measure oral microbiome in saliva

A Rutgers study found that COVID-19 saliva testing kits with a preservative can accurately measure the oral microbiome, which may lead to new treatments for lung health in people with COVID-19. The study collected saliva samples from participants and compared their ability to measure microbes before and after COVID-19 infection.

SourceRutgers University·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

New device modulates visible light—without dimming it—with the smallest footprint and lowest power consumption

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a compact and power-efficient phase modulator that can control the phase of visible light waves. This breakthrough enables large-scale integration of devices for applications such as chip-scale LIDAR, AR/VR goggles, and quantum information processing chips.

Using short-acting opioids in the hospital could improve care for patients experiencing opioid withdrawal without pain

Experts suggest expanding treatment options for hospital patients with opioid withdrawal symptoms, potentially allowing more individualized and patient-centered care. Randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the efficacy of short-acting opioids in this context.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 22, 2021

Closing in on a new test for Schistosomiasis

Researchers have made progress towards a new diagnostic test for schistosomiasis, which could help interrupt transmission and eventually eliminate the disease. The test targets proteins produced by the parasite and can detect even low-intensity infections.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

High-speed propeller star is fastest spinning white dwarf

Astronomers have detected a white dwarf star that spins at an incredible rate of once every 25 seconds, completing one rotation faster than Earth. The star is thought to be the size of the Earth but massive enough to pull material from its companion star, creating a magnetic propeller system.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Letters·DateNov 22, 2021

Fundamental particles modelled in beam of light

Researchers have successfully created an experimental model of a skyrmion particle in a beam of light, providing a real system to demonstrate the behavior of this elusive type of fundamental particle. The study reveals the intricate structure and topological properties of skyrmions, which can be distorted but not broken.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

COVID gets airborne

UC San Diego researchers developed a computer model to understand how viruses travel through the air, shedding new light on airborne COVID-19 transmission. The model simulates aerosol behavior and helps explain why SARS-CoV-2 is highly transmissible through the air.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2021

Ultrathin solar cells get a boost

Researchers have achieved a new benchmark in designing atomically thin solar cells made of semiconducting perovskites. Sunlight effectively shrinks the space between atomic layers, improving photovoltaic efficiency by up to 18%. This breakthrough addresses stability concerns and offers significant implications for studying excited stat...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Model suggests extending annual mammography screening past age 75 may be cost-effective for some healthy older women

A modeling study found that annual mammography screening beyond age 75 may provide little to no benefit in terms of lives saved, while increasing costs and potential harms from overdiagnosis. Biennial screening up to age 80 is more cost-effective but yields a small number of deaths averted.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2021

Allergic inflammation and experimental skin cancer risk

A recent study at Tampere University discovered that the expression of an allergy-related receptor chain for proinflammatory IL-13 cytokine protects against experimental skin cancer. The absence of this receptor led to increased regulatory T cells and a suppressed immune response, allowing cancer cells to grow and form tumors.

SourceTampere University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateNov 22, 2021

'Mantle wind' blows through slab window beneath Panama

Researchers from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution have discovered a 900-mile-long mantle conduit beneath Panama, which allows hot material to travel laterally through the shallow mantle. This 'mantle wind' helps explain why plume-derived volcanic material appears in central America despite the absence of active volcanoes.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Requests for anti-racism classroom curricula increased following recent police brutality events

A study found a significant increase in requests for anti-racism books and materials following police brutality events and BLM protests, particularly among teachers of younger students. The demand for inclusive curriculum materials also rose sharply, with over $3.4 million worth of books acquired for half a million students.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManagement Science·DateNov 22, 2021

Study digs up roles bacteria play in global carbon cycle

Researchers at Cornell University developed a novel method to track microbes and understand their role in processing soil carbon. The study found that different types of bacteria have varying strategies for assimilating carbon, categorized into guilds based on their access to food.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2021

How people understand other people

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum found that people combine different strategies to comprehend others, with mindreading playing a crucial role in building and maintaining long-term relationships. This approach suggests that social cognition should not be viewed as competing strategies, but rather as interacting and flexible methods.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalErkenntnis·DateNov 22, 2021

Ultrathin solar cells get a boost

Researchers discovered that sunlight contracts the space between atomic layers in 2D perovskites, improving photovoltaic efficiency and stability. The new material shows a threefold increase in electron conduction and is less prone to degradation.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Are political parties getting in the way of our health?

Historical state-level analysis finds that increased party competition leads to higher spending on infrastructure, human capital, literacy, earnings, and longevity. States with more party competition tend to have lower infant mortality, higher life expectancy, and greater social well-being.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 22, 2021

Novel Lyme vaccine shows promise

Researchers developed a novel vaccine using mRNA technology that prompts a quick response to components of tick saliva, limiting infection. The vaccine offers broad-based protection against other tick-borne diseases and can be used in conjunction with traditional vaccines.

SourceYale University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 22, 2021

Not all patients with type 2 diabetes receive appropriate care to prevent cardiovascular diseases

A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that patients with type 2 diabetes often do not receive adequate cholesterol-lowering treatment, despite guidelines recommending statin prescriptions for elevated LDL-C levels. Women tend to have higher average LDL-C levels and receive less statin treatment than men.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 22, 2021

Taking it easy as you get older? Wrong.

Research from Harvard University reveals that physical activity later in life shifts energy towards mechanisms that extend health, reducing chronic illnesses. The study highlights the importance of staying physically active as we age to allocate energy to physiological processes that slow down deterioration.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2021

Using the law to advance public health equity: JPHMP presents update on public health interventions to address disparities related to structural racism

A special article in JPHMP presents a pathway for public health departments and practitioners to incorporate law into efforts to advance equity in health outcomes. The article highlights the illustrative case of Coal Run, where residents filed a civil rights complaint and ultimately received water services after decades of denial.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Public Health Management and Practice·DateNov 22, 2021

Ending market exclusivity for statins saves US $12 billion and individuals nearly $1,000 annually

A recent study from George Mason University found that introducing generic statin medications can reduce prices by up to 95% when six or more generic competitors exist. The study reveals average annual cost savings per individual of $211.9 for out-of-pocket, translating to an $11.9 billion savings for the US.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 22, 2021

GeSnOI mid-infrared laser technology

Researchers developed a GeSn-on-insulator (GeSnOI) technology for high-performance GeSn lasers, tackling interface defects, strain engineering, thermal management, and optical confinement. This leads to improved laser properties, including lower threshold, higher maximum lasing temperature, and stronger lasing intensity.

Warnings may reduce hate speech on Twitter, new study finds

A new study by New York University's Center for Social Media and Politics found that warning users of the potential consequences of their use of hate speech can decrease their subsequent posting of hateful language for a week. Researchers examined the impact of issuing warnings to users who had been suspended for posting tweets with ha...

SourceNew York University·JournalPerspectives on Politics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Healthier UK diets linked to lower greenhouse gas emissions

A new analysis found that non-vegetarian diets result in higher greenhouse gas emissions than vegetarian diets, while a diet rich in nutrients and low in saturated fats can significantly reduce emissions. The study suggests small changes, such as cutting out sweets or switching brands, can make big environmental gains.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 22, 2021

Stanford researchers reveal how to turn a global warming liability into a profitable food security solution

A new process converts potent greenhouse gas methane into protein-rich fishmeal, a potential solution for global food security. The analysis found production costs involving methane from certain US sources are lower than conventional fishmeal prices, with feasible cost reductions possible using other methane sources.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 22, 2021

Viral Visitation

Researchers at UNM's AIM Center have discovered how SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus interferes with the autophagy process, a vital cellular mechanism for recycling debris and invading microorganisms. The study found that the virus hijacks cellular membranes to evade immune systems.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Why long samples are one of the keys to improving predictive algorithms in finance

A recent study published in The Journal of Finance and Data Science suggests that long-term returns are stable and easier to predict than short-term returns, which suffer from noise and 'look-ahead' bias. The study also found that larger training samples are required for optimal model performance

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Finance and Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 22, 2021

Deep learning algorithms assist in identifying microplastics in human body

A study has developed a method using dark-field microscopy and deep learning algorithms to identify microplastics in human cells, achieving an accuracy of 93% for 1-micron polystyrene particles. The technique has the potential to screen microplastics in various samples, reducing time-consuming data acquisition and processing steps.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Private education in lower-income countries is having limited impact on learning

A study of over 560,000 children in India, Pakistan, Kenya, and Uganda found that private education made little difference in learning outcomes, with gains largely attributed to more advantaged backgrounds. The researchers suggest that private schools may be drawing support away from state education without significantly improving stan...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalComparative Education Review·DateNov 22, 2021

Getting quantum dots to stop blinking

A team of chemists at MIT has developed a method to control the blinking phenomenon in quantum dots using mid-infrared laser light, eliminating intermittency for precise applications. This technique may also be applicable to other materials, enabling new uses in biological research and quantum information science.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 22, 2021

Ancient Aboriginal bush medicine could improve modern day cancer treatment

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have discovered a natural substance, a flavonoid, that can inhibit cancer cells' ability to defend themselves against chemotherapy by targeting efflux pumps. This could lead to more effective treatment and potentially even combat antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalBiomolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Scientists pick up the 'slack' on describing the brain networks behind motor function

A new study by Ritsumeikan University reveals that whole-body dynamic balance training increases brain connectivity and improves motor learning. The research found significant changes in brain activity associated with offline learning, opening up new avenues for studying neural networks during natural tasks.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

New documentation of dramatic climate changes at the end of the last ice age sheds light on the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer to settlement and farming societies

Researchers reconstruct Land of Israel climate at end of last ice age using plant remains, revealing significant temperature and precipitation differences that impacted the transition from hunter-gatherer to settled agricultural societies. The study provides insights into the region's flora and its response to past climate change.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateNov 22, 2021

Deleting dysfunctional cells alleviates diabetes

Researchers at UConn Health have discovered that eliminating senescent cells in human fat tissue can alleviate signs of diabetes and improve insulin sensitivity. The study suggests that clearing away these dysfunctional cells could lead to game-changing new treatments for Type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Stereotypes in STEM fields start by age six

A new study by the University of Houston researcher found that gender stereotypes in computer science and engineering begin at age six, leading to a lack of representation of girls and women in these fields. The study suggests that introducing high-quality STEM activities in elementary school can help close the gender gap.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Cascading femtosecond lasers into the mid-infrared

Researchers at ETH Zurich demonstrate the first direct femtosecond-pulse emission from a quantum cascade laser in the mid-infrared region, generating powerful pulses as short as 630 femtoseconds and 4.5 watt peak power. This breakthrough opens up practical routes to accessing ultrafast dynamics across the molecular fingerprint region.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Prediction of lupus nephritis treatment response may help doctors and patients preserve precious kidney function

A new web-based application uses machine learning to predict lupus nephritis treatment response, considering various disease indicators. The tool may help physicians identify patients at risk of poor outcomes, enabling them to provide targeted care and preserve as much kidney function as possible.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalLupus Science & Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Mystery of high performing novel solar cell materials revealed in stunning clarity

Perovskite materials have emerged as promising alternatives to crystalline silicon for producing solar panels. Despite defects that reduce performance, perovskites show impressive efficiency levels comparable to silicon alternatives. Researchers used multimodal microscopy methods to visualize and explain the complex interactions betwee...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Biased beta-agonists may provide better control of asthma and other obstructive lung diseases, drug discovery study shows

A University of South Florida Health-led team discovered a lead candidate that selectively relaxes airway smooth muscle cells with no detectable drug desensitization. The biased beta-agonist, C1-S, offers a therapeutic option for asthma and obstructive lung diseases without the rapid loss of effectiveness seen with traditional β-agonists.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

Kids, teens believe girls aren’t interested in computer science, study shows

A recent study from the University of Washington and the University of Houston found that children as young as age 6 develop ideas that girls are less interested than boys in computer science and engineering. The study suggests that these gender-based beliefs can contribute to a gender gap in STEM college courses and related careers.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021

How to eat a poison butterfly

Scientists have discovered that four types of monarch predators - a bird, a mouse, a parasitic wasp, and a worm - evolved the same unusual cellular mutations as monarchs. These mutations allow them to resist the toxic effects of milkweed plant toxins, which can be deadly to most animals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 22, 2021