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Science News for September 30, 2021


New metamaterial with unusual reflective property could boost your Wi-Fi signal

Researchers at University of Toronto have developed a new metamaterial that can channel light to enable more wireless data transmission over a single frequency, potentially doubling the capacity of existing networks. The 'full-duplex' intelligent metasurface has the potential to revolutionize wireless communication.

Optically generated quantum fluids of light reveal exotic matter-wave states in condensed matter physics

Scientists from Skoltech and the University of Southampton created an all-optical lattice that houses polaritons, quasiparticles with half-light and half-matter properties. They demonstrated breakthrough results for condensed matter physics and flatband engineering.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Study: Aerobic exercise after a sport-related concussion speeds recovery in adolescent athletes

A new study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that daily aerobic exercise within 10 days of getting injured reduced the risk of prolonged recovery by 48%. This approach is non-pharmacological, safe and effective, with benefits experienced by both genders equally.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2021

OSU study on African buffalo offers insights on persistence of highly contagious pathogens

A new OSU study on African buffalo offers insights into the persistence of highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease pathogens. Researchers found that carrier transmission among certain strains can allow them to persist in populations, highlighting the need for public health interventions to limit transmission and endemicity.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Study explores how women handle stigma of staying with imprisoned men

Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 women who dated or were married to incarcerated partners, analyzing the impact of courtesy stigma and women's coping strategies. The study found that despite disapproval from loved ones, women chose to remain in their relationships, highlighting benefits such as deeper communicat...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalCriminal Justice Studies·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

New nanomaterial for treatment of skin infections

Researchers at IOCB Prague have developed a novel antibacterial material called NANO-LPPO that can prevent infection and facilitate treatment of skin wounds. The material combines lipophosphonoxins with a nonwoven nanotextile, which releases active substances in response to bacterial presence.

Sexual minority identity impacts career trajectory among medical students

A study analyzing data from the Association of American Medical Colleges Graduate Questionnaire found that sexual minorities, particularly female, are underrepresented in undergraduate medical training and certain specialties. The researchers concluded that standardized data collection and consideration of diversity in recruitment are ...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Older adults who receive additional supportive care services experience fewer side effects from chemotherapy, City of Hope study finds

A City of Hope clinical trial showed that patients over 65 experiencing significantly fewer treatment-related side effects when a multidisciplinary team analyzed each case and introduced personalized interventions. The completion of advance directives was also higher in the experimental group.

SourceCity of Hope·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2021

Satirical essay critiques power imbalances in global health research

A satirical opinion article by Iruka Okeke critiques the extractive and exploitive aspects of health research partnerships between high-income and low-income countries. The author highlights twenty problematic practices that maintain and exacerbate inequities in global health biomedical research.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 30, 2021

Quantum photonics based on metasurfaces

Researchers discuss the recent development of quantum optics based on micro/nano structures, including metasurfaces, which offers rich light field control function to discover new quantum physics. Metasurfaces has great potential in quantum optics, enabling the exploration of quantum technologies with strong stability and high efficiency.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateSep 30, 2021

Virtual care with remote monitoring catches drug errors and reduces patient pain

A national study led by McMaster University researchers found that patients using take-home technology following non-elective surgery had significantly greater detection and correction of drug errors, and reduction in patients' pain. The study also showed a reduction in acute-hospital care as the result of virtual care and remote autom...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2021

How fine-root traits fit in plant form and function

A global study of thousands of plant species reveals that fine-root traits are fundamentally decoupled from aboveground traits, suggesting that plants employ different strategies to acquire nutrients and water. This discovery challenges the 'plant economics spectrum hypothesis' and highlights the need for further research into the rela...

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Wildfire bees on the brink

A new study finds that the 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires increased the number of threatened Australian native bee species by nearly five times. The research assesses the long-term environmental damage from the natural disaster and highlights the need for urgent conservation action.

SourceFlinders University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2021

Preventing child malnutrition and promoting healthy development

A small sachet of a fortified food-based supplement added to young children’s daily diets has shown remarkable results in preventing child mortality and malnutrition while promoting healthy development. The intervention resulted in lower prevalence of stunted growth, anemia, and adverse language and motor development outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Review concludes managing weight and preventing obesity in people with type 1 diabetes is a difficult but not impossible balance

A new review concludes that people with type 1 diabetes can manage their weight, but more research is needed to understand the specific needs of this patient group. The review explores strategies such as nutrition education, adjunct therapies like metformin and GLP-1 receptor agonists, and obesity surgery.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateSep 30, 2021

Primordial ‘hyper-eye’ discovered

A team of researchers has found a 390-million-year-old hyper-facet eye system in trilobites that is unique to the animal kingdom. The discovery suggests that this ancient eye may have been an adaptation for life in low light conditions, and could provide insights into the evolution of visual systems.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2021

Expert report indicates neural harm of marine parks on cetacean brains

A new report published in De Gruyter exposes the neural impact of marine parks and other impoverished environments on cetaceans. The authors conclude that these environments cause significant neurobiological harm, leading to abnormal behavior such as repetitive swimming patterns and social isolation.

SourcePeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)·JournalReviews in the Neurosciences·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 30, 2021

HKU theoretical chemists develop a breakthrough quantum chemistry technique for illuminating new opportunities towards computational design and optimisation of organic photofunctional materials

The University of Hong Kong researchers have developed a novel quantum chemistry technique to reveal complex electron and energy transfer pathways in photophysical processes. The study reveals that strong electron-electron correlations and electron-vibration couplings govern the efficient singlet fission process in organic materials.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalChemical Science·DateSep 30, 2021

More effective treatment of Alzheimer’s

Researchers at Uppsala University have designed new antibodies that bind to both large and small aggregates of the amyloid-beta protein, potentially providing a more effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The new antibody format is stronger in binding to clumps and can also target smaller aggregates.

SourceUppsala University·JournalTranslational Neurodegeneration·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Dynamic pregnancy intentions

Researchers found that economic stability, relationship status, and educational status can lead to shifts in pregnancy intentions, with 22% of participants changing their mind within a year. The study aims to provide insight for healthcare providers to check in frequently about patients' desires.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Smartphone sensors are capable of detecting cannabis high and have the potential to provide early intervention

Researchers led by Stevens Institute of Technology's Sang Won Bae developed a machine-learning model using smartphone data to detect cannabis intoxication in young adults. The study combined features such as GPS, noise, light, and activity levels to predict intoxication with high accuracy. This technology has the potential to provide e...

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

New research from Children’s Hospital Colorado shows dual therapy upon diagnosis of MIS-C improves cardiac outcomes

A recent study found that pediatric patients with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) who received initial IVIG plus Infliximab had improved cardiac outcomes, reduced need for additional therapies, and faster resolution of inflammation. The updated care pathway recommends this intensified therapy for all MIS-C patients.

SourceChildren's Hospital Colorado·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2021

New report shows accelerated adaptation can substantially reduce Egypt’s food production losses from climate change

A new report by International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) suggests that accelerated adaptation can substantially reduce Egypt’s food production losses from climate change. Climate change-induced biophysical crop stress could lead to a 10% reduction in food crop yields by 2050, but investing in agricultural research and devel...

SourceInternational Food Policy Research Institute·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 30, 2021

HSE researchers say only female public officials will be able to eliminate corruption in Russia

A study by HSE researchers found that women believe corruption presents an obstacle to economic development, while men see it as a problem for customers and suppliers. The survey of over 1,200 public procurement experts revealed significant gender differences in perceptions of corruption.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Economic Behavior & Organization·DateSep 30, 2021

Earth is dimming due to climate change

Researchers found a significant drop in Earth's albedo over the past two decades, primarily caused by reduced bright clouds in the eastern Pacific Ocean. This decrease in reflectivity allows more solar energy to be captured by the climate system, contributing to potential global warming.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 30, 2021

Cell labelling method from microscopy adapted for use in whole-body imaging for the first time

Researchers at the University of Münster have developed a new cell labelling method using SNAP-tag technology and positron emission tomography (PET) for whole-body imaging. This breakthrough allows for the visualization of specific cellular processes, opening up new avenues for understanding bodily functions.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

How a committed minority can change society

An agent-based study found that a committed minority can influence the majority to overturn long-standing practices. The researchers created an online game where participants voted on a product launch, with a small group of 'activists' able to sway the majority. The study's findings may help stimulate sustainable behavior.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Living at high altitudes may lower chance of having a deadly stroke

Researchers found that people living at high altitudes have a lower risk of stroke and stroke-related death. The study suggests that adaptation to low oxygen conditions may help protect against stroke damage. A protective window between 2,000 and 3,500 meters was identified, with less protection seen above this altitude.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2021

Gene found in monkeys and mice could work as a new type of antiviral to block HIV, Ebola, and other deadly viruses in humans

Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation called retroCHMP3 that can block the replication of certain viruses like HIV and Ebola by disrupting their ability to exit an infected cell. This finding has the potential to lead to the development of new medical interventions against these deadly diseases.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Light in, sound out: photoacoustic probe helps find and fight Wilson's disease and other maladies

Researchers developed a non-toxic, small-molecule probe that provides real-time visualization of disease progression, overcoming limitations of MRI and PET imaging. The probe binds copper ions and detects dysregulated levels, accurately identifying Wilson's disease and other maladies.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2021

New research provides compelling evidence of the connection between AMR surgical-site infections and arthropods

A new study by Oxford academics found that approximately 20% of flies and cockroaches carry carbapenem resistance, while 70-80% carry extended spectrum cephalosporin resistance. Climate change could lead to a doubling of insect populations and an increase in the global spread of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 30, 2021

Relieving pain by mapping its biological signatures

Scientists have identified specific epigenetic signatures for nociceptive and neuropathic pain, allowing for quicker and more reliable classification. This breakthrough enables a simple blood test to determine the type of pain an individual suffers from, paving the way for targeted treatment.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalJournal of Pain·TypeNews article·DateSep 30, 2021

A Chinese medical journal review sheds light on T-cell responses in respiratory diseases

Researchers comprehensively review T-cell responses to respiratory viral infections and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), highlighting key characteristics of peptide-reactive T-cells. The review aims to improve understanding of the underlying mechanisms, leading to more effective immune protection and treatment methods.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 30, 2021

The Lancet: More than half of police killings in USA are unreported and Black Americans are most likely to experience fatal police violence

A new study by The Lancet found that over 55% of police killings in the USA are unreported and Black Americans are 3.5 times more likely to experience fatal police violence than white Americans. Researchers estimate an additional 32,000 deaths from police violence between 1980-2019.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeObservational study·DateSep 30, 2021

Signaling from neighboring cells provides power boost within axons

A recent NIH study identifies oligodendrocytes as a key player in maintaining energy levels within axons, which are essential for long-distance communication. The research discovered that oligodendrocytes release an enzyme called SIRT2, which increases mitochondrial activity and provides a local power boost to axons.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Pruning the dendritic tree

Researchers at the University of Bonn have discovered that the enzyme SLK plays a vital role in maintaining inhibitory synapses, which help regulate neuronal excitability. Without SLK, neurons become increasingly excitable and less responsive to inhibitory signals, potentially leading to increased seizure frequency.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021