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Science News for October 12, 2021


Living near oil and gas wells increases air pollution exposure

A Stanford University study found higher levels of air pollutants within 2.5 miles of oil and gas wells, likely worsening negative health outcomes for nearby residents. The research reveals that wells emit toxic particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and ozone, posing a risk to residents' health.

SourceStanford University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Choosing the 'best' embryo in IVF

Researchers found that selecting the embryo with the lowest predicted risk score reduces disease risk more effectively than eliminating high-scoring embryos. However, polygenic embryo screening offers no guarantees about a baby's health and has limited effectiveness depending on factors like ancestry and age.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Seeking the star stuff that made us

Two independent research groups unveil new measurements to explain the birth of half the universe's elements. One group uses laboratory techniques to hunt for 'astromers,' while the other compares heavy elements in stars to better understand their origin.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 12, 2021

Physics outreach programs benefit students’ scientific identities, career prospects

A Texas A&M University study found that physics outreach programs have a positive effect on both students and their audiences, boosting confidence, skills, and career readiness in STEM fields. The programs provide experiential learning opportunities beyond classrooms, promoting deeper understanding and enhanced job prospects.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPhysical Review Physics Education Research·TypeNews article·DateOct 12, 2021

Conservatives tweet louder

Researchers found that conservative tweets are more effective at reaching moderates than liberal tweets, thanks to their network connections and linguistic similarities. The study suggests that liberals need to consciously connect with moderates to compete on Twitter.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeContent analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Researchers achieve universal route to family of penta-twinned gold nanocrystals

A research team has developed a universal route with fine kinetic control to synthesize a family of penta-twinned gold nanocrystals. The method, which uses tailored atom deposition sites and rates, allows for the fabrication of seven types of penta-twin nanocrystals with tunable sizes and high purity.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Molecular scales on biological membranes

Researchers have developed Mass-Sensitive Particle Tracking (MSPT) to analyze proteins on biological membranes in real-time. The method enables the determination of protein location and size changes without labeling, providing valuable insights into dynamic processes at the membrane.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Novel habitats created by non-native mangrove trees may inform the future management of some invasive species

The study found that non-native mangroves on Moloka'i Island support a diverse range of zooplankton communities, rivaling those found in open coastal areas. This suggests that non-native mangroves may provide suitable habitats for rare and important species, altering the way invasive species are managed.

SourcePortland State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeCase study·DateOct 12, 2021

Training in ACT for medical personnel reduces the need for sick leave

Medical personnel trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) showed a 21% reduction in patient sick leave, primarily related to anxiety and depression. The study suggests that ACT training can empower healthcare staff to take a comprehensive view of patients' needs, promoting sustainable change and reducing reliance on sick leave.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBMC Family Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 12, 2021

First worldwide personalized-medicine study using a functional test demonstrates clinical feasibility and efficacy of individualized therapy in leukemia and lymphoma patients

Researchers conducted a functional test to identify effective therapies for advanced hematological cancers, achieving significant positive outcomes with 56 patients receiving individually tailored treatment. The study demonstrates the clinical feasibility and efficacy of personalized medicine in breaking resistance to prior therapies.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 12, 2021

A computationally quick approach to predict molten droplet solidification on a solid surface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a computationally quick approach to predict molten droplet solidification on a solid surface. The model simulates the solidification process by considering the droplet behavior and heat transfer between the hotter droplet and cooler surface, replicating experiments with high accuracy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2021

This laser is supposed to rejuvenate vaginal tissue. But scientists say it’s no better than a placebo

A new trial has found that vaginal laser therapy treatments claim to reduce negative vaginal symptoms of menopause – experienced by about half of all women – by up to 100 per cent. However, the study shows they might not work at all, with no difference found between the laser treatment and a placebo.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 12, 2021

New research finds algorithm meant to eliminate racial disparities in Airbnb revenue fails to enhance revenue equality

New research finds that Airbnb's smart-pricing tool has done little to solve the problem of racial disparities in revenue, with Black hosts being less likely to adopt the algorithm and facing suboptimal pricing. To address this issue, experts suggest incorporating host race into the pricing algorithm.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Sex matters when it comes to immune responses against infection and disease, study shows

A University of Alberta-led study found that anemia can generate different immune responses in males versus females, making females more prone to infections. The research highlights the importance of considering sex as a variable in prevention, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies for immune-related conditions.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateOct 12, 2021

More effective cell studies using new AI method

A new study from the University of Gothenburg introduces an AI-based method to develop faster, cheaper, and more reliable information about cells using microscopy. This approach eliminates the drawbacks of traditional fluorescence microscopy by providing accurate results without damaging cells or inhibiting processes.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalBiophysics Reviews·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2021

Baycrest-developed at-home cognitive assessment performs as well as widely used, clinician-led test

The Baycrest-developed Cogniciti Brain Health Assessment is as accurate as the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) in identifying problems with memory and attention, but outperforms MoCA in detecting subtle cognitive decline. The self-administered online assessment can provide important information for clinical assessment of memory an...

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series B·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Brain damage from long stays in space

A study published in JAMA Neurology found that long-term exposure to space can cause brain damage in cosmonauts. The research analyzed five Russian male cosmonauts who spent an average of 169 days in space, showing significant increases in biomarkers for brain cell damage upon their return to Earth.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeCase study·DateOct 12, 2021

The future of neuroimaging is “lit”: PET-based technique aids better live visualization

A novel neuroimaging technique using bacterial enzymes and inhibitors enables better live visualization of brain circuitry. The technique facilitates in vivo imaging without disrupting the blood-brain barrier, allowing for the detection of undetectable tau protein assemblies in neurodegenerative diseases.

Radiationless anapole states in on-chip photonics

A team of researchers has discovered radiationless anapole states in on-chip photonics, which enable the creation of highly sensitive biosensors and nonlinear signal processing systems. The discovery allows for tunability of anapole states within a wide wavelength range, with enhanced energy concentration inside nanoparticles.

Mindful breathing for pain control: Like yin and yang

Researchers found that mindful breathing can reduce pain by modulating the somatosensory cortex, a region responsible for processing pain. The study compared two types of meditation: traditional mindful breathing and virtual reality guided breathing, which used immersive visual and audio stimuli to decrease pain sensitivity.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateOct 12, 2021

Patients’ referral to primary care after COVID-19 hospitalization varied widely during the pandemic

Researchers found that only a quarter of patients were scheduled for primary care follow-up prior to discharge during the second wave, highlighting the need for improved healthcare system navigation. Outpatient care can help screen for physical and emotional impairments common among COVID and sepsis patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateOct 12, 2021

Insects in the light of land use and climate

A new study published in Nature Communications finds that insect biomass is higher in warmer temperatures, while diversity declines in agricultural environments compared to semi-natural habitats. Researchers recommend increasing green spaces in urban areas and promoting forest habitats to mitigate climate change.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

Contributing to solve the heat concentration problem in power semiconductors

Developed a highly efficient boiling immersion cooler using lotus metals, increasing critical heat flux from 200 W/cm² to 530 W/cm² or more. The technology is expected to solve the heat concentration problem of in-vehicle power semiconductors and be applied to CPUs for workstations and large-scale servers.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Expanded lung screening rules provide more equitable care

A Kaiser Permanente study found that the 2021 USPSTF guidelines will likely increase lung cancer screening of women, racial and ethnic minority groups, and individuals with lower socioeconomic status. This is expected to lead to an estimated 30% increase in lung cancer diagnoses compared to the 2013 recommendations.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 12, 2021

New strategy achieves efficient and stable carbon dioxide electrolysis in solid oxide electrolysis cell

Researchers developed a new strategy to achieve efficient and stable CO2 electrolysis in solid oxide electrolysis cells. They found that redox cycle manipulations promoted the exsolution of high-density metal/perovskite interfaces, improving performance and stability.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 12, 2021

Clarification on diabetes and dementia risk

Researchers found that poorly controlled type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of developing preclinical dementia, which can progress to full-blown dementia. The study also suggests that controlling blood glucose levels may be key to preventing cognitive decline.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

Desert locusts remain a serious threat to Pakistan

A severe upsurge of desert locusts in 2019-2020 caused $3.4 billion to $10.21 billion in monetary losses and severe acute food insecurity for over 3 million people in Pakistan. The authors suggest improving the prevention system, developing compensatory measures, and increasing the use of alternative pesticides.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalJournal of Orthoptera Research·DateOct 12, 2021

Toward accurate modeling of power MOSFET electrical characteristics

A team of scientists at NAIST successfully used automatic differentiation to accelerate calculations of model parameter extraction, reducing computation time by 3.5 times compared to conventional methods. This breakthrough enables the design of more efficient power converters with increased performance and reduced energy consumption.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·DateOct 12, 2021

Electronic health record messaging during pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, patient electronic health record inbox message volume increased significantly in an ambulatory practice network in New England. The study compared pre-pandemic and pandemic levels to understand the impact of the outbreak on healthcare communication.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 12, 2021

Scientists discover a highly potent antibody against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers have identified a highly potent antibody that effectively blocks the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, halting viral replication and enabling the immune system to eliminate the virus. This breakthrough discovery offers a potential preventive-treatment option for unvaccinated individuals or those with weakened immune systems.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Researcher discovers key gene responsible for cancer drug resistance

A researcher at the University of Missouri-Columbia has discovered a protein called USP15 that protects cancer cells from destruction by removing ubiquitin tags placed on them by immunomodulatory drugs. Testing patients for USP15 may help determine resistance to these therapies, paving the way for more precise and customized treatments.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Study at molecular level finds IRL green sea turtles biologically stressed

Research at Florida Atlantic University found that green sea turtles in polluted environments have impaired immune systems, leading to increased disease susceptibility. The study suggests a positive feedback loop where pollution compromises immunity, making turtles more prone to Green Turtle Fibropapillomatosis.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

The deepest dive into the Earth's soil

The University of Idaho's Deep Soil Ecotron facility will be a game-changer for understanding soil ecosystems, allowing researchers to conduct experiments at unprecedented depths. By studying deep soils, scientists can better understand how organisms respond to global environmental change and improve carbon sequestration.

Synthesis of AgNPs@rGO: Simple and green way for wound healing

Scientists from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science create a novel approach to synthesizing silver nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide composite material using plasma technology. The resulting AgNPs@rGO nanomaterial shows excellent disinfection effects and bio-compatibility, making it suitable for wound healing band-aids.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Engineering Journal Advances·DateOct 12, 2021

How to better identify dangerous volcanoes

Researchers found that high water content in magma can reduce the risk of an explosive eruption. The study suggests combining different metrics to predict gas bubbles and crystallization, potentially leading to better forecasts for dangerous explosions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Geoscience·DateOct 12, 2021

Worsening depression cuts survival in lung cancer patients

A new study has found that worsening depression after diagnosis significantly reduces the survival of lung cancer patients. The trajectory of depressive symptoms was found to be a key factor in understanding how depression relates to premature death. Patients with worsening depression had shorter lifespans, even when receiving advanced...

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

Ultrafast and coupled -- atomic vibrations in the quantum material boron nitride

Researchers discovered ultrafast coupled atomic vibrations in few-layer hexagonal boron nitride, resulting in a frequency down-shift of the optical phonons. The study also reveals a nonlinear optical effect that can be induced by moderate power light, holding potential for optoelectronic applications.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

The dark side of social media networks

A systematic review of social media research identified 46 harmful effects, ranging from psychological harms like jealousy and loneliness to security and privacy issues. The study highlights the need for user moderation and software development strategies to mitigate these negative effects.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Global Information Management·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 12, 2021

Exposure to childhood adversity is linked to early mortality and associated with nearly half a million annual US deaths

A new study reveals that childhood adversity is a major contributor to early and preventable causes of mortality and long-term physical and mental health issues. Childhood adversity was found to be associated with elevated risk for chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer.

No apparent shortage of prey for southern resident killer whales in Canadian waters during summer

A study by University of British Columbia researchers reveals that southern resident killer whales have access to four to six times more Chinook salmon in the Salish Sea than northern residents. This challenges the common notion of a prey shortage for southern residents during summer feeding grounds.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateOct 12, 2021

Fintech can promote financial inclusion in emerging economies

A new study from the University of Illinois evaluates fintech systems in 16 emerging markets, finding that digital technologies improve access to financial services. However, vulnerable populations face barriers to usage due to digital literacy, cost, and limited consumer protections.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalEmerging Markets Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2021

Islands are cauldrons of evolution

Research by Washington University in St. Louis explores the collision of island and mainland adaptive radiations in neotropical anoles, finding that island species can diversify greatly on the mainland. Contrary to traditional thinking, islands are not evolutionary dead ends but rather cauldrons of innovation and diversification.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Meet the 42: ESO images some of the biggest asteroids in our Solar System

The study of 42 asteroids provides detailed images and shapes, revealing a variety of asteroid types, including spherical and elongated objects. The densities of the asteroids vary significantly, suggesting different compositions and origins, supporting theories of substantial migration and distinct region formation in the Solar System.

SourceESO·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateOct 12, 2021

Glaciers are melting faster and faster

A research team from VUB has been monitoring glaciers in the Alps for 20 years, using drones to track glacier melting and find that the Morteratsch and Pers glaciers have lost mass again. The study found that climate change is causing glaciers to lose mass faster, with one cooler summer not changing the overall trend.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateOct 12, 2021

Helmet use reduces moderate or severe head injuries in youths riding ATVs and dirt bikes

The study analyzed data from 680 patients aged 1-17 who were involved in ATV or dirt bike crashes. Helmeted riders had lower rates of neurosurgical consultation, intracranial injury, moderate or severe traumatic brain injury, and required fewer neurosurgical procedures compared to unhelmeted riders.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

Growing droplets in the matrix

The study assesses how temperature influences droplet size in elastic matrices, providing insights into biological molecule arrangement and condensate formation. It also explores the role of phase separation and its effect on droplet growth.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2021

Women indirectly hurt more by noncompete pacts

A Cornell University study finds that noncompete agreements disproportionately affect women entrepreneurs, blocking them from starting high-growth companies. The 'fear factor' associated with noncompetes also limits the ability of women to hire experienced employees, making entrepreneurial ventures riskier.

SourceCornell University·JournalOrganization Science·DateOct 12, 2021