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Science News for November 9, 2021


Penn study finds solid-tumor cancer patients ineligible for clinical trials receive immunotherapy at greater rates despite lack of benefits

A nationwide study published in JAMA Oncology found that immunotherapy use among trial-ineligible solid-tumor cancer patients increased significantly between 2014 and 2019, yet no survival benefit was observed. Researchers emphasize cautious use of immunotherapies for this population due to potential early harm.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Can't find your keys? You need a chickadee brain

Scientists have identified a genetic component underlying the spatial memories of Mountain Chickadees, which rely on these abilities to survive harsh winters. The study used genetic sequencing and behavioral tests to show that natural selection is shaping chickadee memory.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Mangrove restoration has ecological and economic benefits

A global meta-analysis supports the U.N.'s goal of restoring habitats, finding mangrove restoration performs better than unvegetated mud, sand flats or abandoned aquaculture ponds. Restored mangroves yield significant ecological benefits and economic value, making them an ecologically and economically sound choice.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Most children with cancer have mild COVID-19 and make full recovery

A new study published in the European Journal of Cancer found that most children with cancer have mild COVID-19 disease and make a full recovery. However, patients with underlying health conditions, severe infections, and low white blood cell counts were significantly more likely to experience severe disease. The research involved 131 ...

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalEuropean Journal of Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateNov 9, 2021

Cellular aging: a basic paradox elucidated

A research team at the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre has found that cellular aging is caused by irreversible damage to the genome, not just telomere erosion. This discovery challenges the long-held scientific model and opens up new research opportunities for preventing cellular aging and genomic instability.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

A new model for selling surplus energy from electric vehicles to local grids shows potential savings for V2G users in six major US cities

Researchers at the University of Rochester develop a computational V2G model that accounts for factors not previously considered, showing potential savings of $120-$150 per year for vehicle owners. The model uses data from the US Census Bureau and calculates battery degradation costs based on various variables.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

Climatic drivers of honey bee disease revealed

A new study has found that increasing temperatures and heavy rainfall reduce the prevalence of Varroa mite disease in UK honey bee colonies, while heavy wind reduces its severity. Climate change is predicted to impact the risk of European foulbrood disease, with a hot spot identified in the South West England.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

Brain connections have their own tempo

Researchers discovered that neurons forming connections between brain areas share similar genetic programs, but unfold at varying speeds. This tempo-dependent development enables the creation of diversity in neurons without requiring major genetic differences.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateNov 9, 2021

Size matters for bee ‘superorganism’ colonies

Research suggests that larger bee colonies with comfortable food stores are less willing to take risks, while smaller colonies with limited resources are more likely to ignore warning signals. This study provides insights into the complex communication system of bees and its implications for understanding biological collectives.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and related dementias reduces social activity

A recent Rutgers University study found that receiving a new diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias leads to decreased formal and informal social engagement. This can be particularly concerning for disadvantaged populations with limited resources. The study highlights the need for practitioners and policymakers to consi...

SourceRutgers University·JournalDementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

This robot doesn't need to knock

Researchers have developed an autonomous robot that can open its own doors and find nearby outlets to recharge. The innovation addresses a significant challenge in robotics, enabling helper robots to work independently without human assistance.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalIEEE Access·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

AFAR Scientific Awards of Distinction lectures at GSA Annual Meeting on November 12 recognizing Malene Hansen (Buck Institute), Morgan Levine (Yale), Andrea Gilmore-Bykovskyi (University of Wisconsin), and Kali Thomas, MA, PhD (Brown University)

Four scientists will receive AFAR Scientific Awards of Distinction for their groundbreaking work on aging and disease. Malene Hansen, Morgan Levine, Andrea Gilmore-Bykovskyi, and Kali Thomas will present lectures on their research topics.

Researchers find disparities in suicide risk among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults

A NIH study found that sexual identity intersects with gender, age, and race/ethnicity to compound suicide risk for some lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals. Rates of suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts were higher among LGB adults compared to heterosexual adults across all demographic groups.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateNov 9, 2021

The optical Stern-Gerlach Deflection and Young’s experiment in the reciprocal space

Researchers demonstrated Young's experiment for photons in reciprocal space, creating an interference pattern of light polarization with circular polarized stripes. The observation coincided with the 100th anniversary of spin discovery and showed a classic entanglement of two degrees of freedom - direction and polarization of light.

SourceUniversity of Warsaw, Faculty of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Supplementing patient health questionnaire with suicide cognition scale questions improves identification of individuals at highest risk of suicide

Researchers found that adding one of three Suicide Cognitions Scale items to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 improved accuracy in identifying those at highest risk of suicidal behavior within a month. This augmentation can lead to reduced unnecessary treatment and misallocated resources, benefiting both patients and physicians.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 9, 2021

Surrey researchers reveal the hidden behaviour of supercapacitor materials

Researchers from the University of Surrey and the University of São Paulo have developed a new analysis technique that enables scientists to investigate the complex inter-connected behaviour of supercapacitor electrodes made from layers of different materials. The technique, known as Distribution of Relaxation Times, allows researchers...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalElectrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Anxiety effectively treated with exercise

A study led by University of Gothenburg researchers found that both moderate and strenuous exercise significantly alleviate symptoms of anxiety in patients with the disorder. Exercise intensity was also found to impact improvement, with higher intensity exercising resulting in greater symptom reduction.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 9, 2021

Life cycle assessment of carbon capture

A life cycle assessment of carbon capture at Amager Bakke incineration plant reveals that the technology reduces CO2 emissions from incineration but decreases electricity production by 50%. The overall net energy efficiency is not affected, but heat output increases by 20%.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalWaste Management & Research The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy·DateNov 9, 2021

Pregnancy stretch marks cause stress and emotional burden, study finds

Researchers found that nearly 75% of pregnant women with stretch marks reported moderate to prominent embarrassment, which impacted their social activities, self-esteem, and clothing choices. The study highlights the need for open discussions about stretch marks to normalize them and identify potential mental health issues.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Women’s Dermatology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 9, 2021

Retrospective study finds that cancer drug also lowers blood glucose

A retrospective study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that dasatinib lowers serum glucose levels in patients with pre-existing type 2 diabetes to a greater degree than imatinib and comparable to first-line diabetic medications. Researchers suggest further study is needed to determine the primary mechanism behind dasatinib's ...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateNov 9, 2021

Multiplex network improves diagnosis and analysis of rare diseases

A new multiplex network developed by Jörg Menche's research group maps all genes and their interactions, improving the identification of genetic defects and assessing their consequences. The network increases the probability of finding the crucial gene aberration threefold compared to separate networks.

Biodiversity ‘time machine’ uses artificial intelligence to learn from the past

Researchers have developed a 'time machine' framework that uses artificial intelligence to learn from past environmental changes and predict future biodiversity loss. This framework can help decision-makers prioritize conservation approaches and mitigation interventions, leading to more effective management of ecosystem services.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 9, 2021

On repeat: Listening to favorite music improves brain plasticity, cognitive performance of Alzheimer’s patients, Toronto researchers find

Researchers at the University of Toronto have demonstrated that listening to personally meaningful music induces beneficial brain plasticity in patients with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's disease. The study showed changes in neural pathways correlated with increased memory performance on neuropsychological tests, suppo...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Wash-and-wear sensors

Researchers create biosensors that can be integrated into clothing, allowing for more precise measurement of muscle activity and improving therapeutic outcomes. The technology uses a combination of silver and gold nanocomposites to enhance conductivity and biocompatibility.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAPL Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Very preterm born adults score their relationships with family and colleagues highly, but not with friends

Researchers found that very preterm born adults scored lower on friendship relationships but perceived their family, partner, work, and educational experiences as comparable to term-born peers. Parents, schools, and workplaces may help improve social relationships by providing opportunities for friendship development.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Anthropogenic emissions and urbanization increase risks of compound hot extremes in cities

A new study reveals that compound hot extremes, where days and nights are simultaneously extreme, pose significant health risks, especially for female and older residents. Urban compound hot extremes have increased by 1.76 days per decade in eastern China, driven by anthropogenic emissions and urbanization.

Retinoid therapy may improve vision in people with rare genetic disorder, according to study in mice from University of Maryland School of Medicine and NIH

Researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and NIH found that retinoid therapy improved vision in mice with Usher syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. The study identified key functions of protocadherin-15, which helps recycle molecules essential for eye tissue.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Going for gold to reduce antibiotic resistance

Research identifies way of using nanoparticles to target and disrupt bacterial cells, making them more susceptible to standard antibiotic treatments. Laboratory studies show a strong effect in killing a range of bacteria, including some linked to hospital-acquired infections.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

By capsule through the bloodstream: How intestinal bacteria communicate with the body

An international research team discovered that intestinal bacteria can distribute their metabolic products throughout the body via the bloodstream using membrane vesicles. The study found that these vesicles can overcome the blood-brain barrier and enter brain cells, suggesting a new method for delivering drugs or vaccines.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Extracellular Vesicles·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Model predicts early response to cancer immunotherapy

Researchers developed a mathematical model that can predict the effectiveness of immunotherapy treatment for individual patients based on standard clinical measures. The model showed high sensitivity in predicting treatment response within two months, with minimal false-negative results.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 9, 2021

OHSU model reduces opioid prescribing

A review board comprising healthcare professionals from various disciplines has sharply reduced opioid prescribing at an OHSU internal medicine clinic. The clinic uses a systematic approach to review high-risk cases and coach primary care providers on tapering patients off opioids.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

Why teapots always drip

Researchers at TU Wien have successfully described the 'teapot effect' with a theoretical analysis and experiments. The effect occurs when a liquid is poured out of a teapot too slowly, causing it to dribble down the outside of the pot due to an interplay of inertia, viscous, and capillary forces.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Service provides a lifeline for primary care providers amid a crisis in youth mental health made worse by the pandemic

The MC3 program provides a lifeline for primary care providers in Michigan, connecting them with psychiatrists and behavioral specialists for consultation and training. This has led to improved diagnosis and care for young people with mental health concerns, including those who express suicidal thoughts or have harmed themselves.

Who's the boss?

Researchers found that both male and female Guinea baboons initiate group departures and are equally successful in leading the group. The study's findings challenge the common assumption that only males lead groups, suggesting that social organization alone does not determine leadership roles.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateNov 9, 2021

How to turn specific genes on and off

Researchers at McGill University developed a new technique to manipulate DNA methylation levels at specific genes using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. This approach enables targeted demethylation of genes associated with diseases, such as insulin gene dysregulation in diabetes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2021

To persuade college students to practice social distancing, scaring them into action isn’t enough

Researchers investigated social distancing behavior among university students worldwide and found that confidence in one's ability to protect themselves and others was crucial for change. The most effective public health messaging emphasized the protection of social distancing as an action people could easily carry out.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalGlobal Health Promotion·DateNov 9, 2021