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Science News for February 1, 2022


Study links lead in childhood well water to teen delinquency

A new study found that children who drank well water with lead have a 21% higher risk of delinquency and 38% increased risk of serious complaints. Researchers analyzed a 20-year dataset linking blood lead measurements to reported juvenile delinquency records after age 14.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Single-use sensor strips detect cerebrospinal fluid leaks

Researchers developed a single-use sensor strip that can detect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, providing a rapid diagnostic tool for patients with brain and spinal cord injuries. The test uses antibodies specific to proteins found in human CSF, detecting leaks even when other substances are present.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Nanotechnology and Microelectronics Materials Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateFeb 1, 2022

Magnetic seeds used to heat and kill cancer

Scientists at University College London have developed a novel cancer therapy using magnetic seeds guided by an MRI scanner to heat and destroy tumours. The therapy, called MINIMA, has the potential to precisely treat hard-to-reach cancers with minimal side effects.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Controlling robots from space

For the first time, astronauts in orbit successfully controlled a robot on the ground using haptic feedback, simulating geological exploration missions. This breakthrough enables more complex investigations of planetary surfaces without human exposure to danger.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Exercise program could improve cancer treatment outcomes

A moderate exercise programme was shown to improve chemotherapy success rates and reduce negative side effects in oesophageal cancer patients. The study found that exercise can be safely included as part of cancer treatment, potentially benefiting more patients.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 1, 2022

Finding structure in the brain’s static

Scientists found smaller, faster waves in the visual cortex that relate to how attentive the brain is. These wave patterns may help understand sleep, anesthesia, and attention by suppressing irrelevant information. The discovery could also improve artificial brains using machine learning techniques.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 1, 2022

More is not always better

A research team from the University of Jena has made an important breakthrough in generating high-energy proton radiation using laser-plasma interaction. By precisely adjusting parameters such as foil thickness, laser focusing, and pulse duration, they have achieved a maximum energy yield that could enable the development of smaller an...

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalPhysical Review Research·DateFeb 1, 2022

How fuel poverty ‘gets under the skin’

Researchers found that fuel poverty leads to higher levels of inflammation, affecting physical health, and lower life satisfaction, impacting wellbeing outcomes. The study's findings highlight the need for policies to support low-income households struggling with fuel poverty.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEnergy Economics·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 1, 2022

The price is right: Pusan National University scientists develop new model to determine pricing of vulnerable exchange options

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a new model using 'double Mellin transforms' and the 'method of dimension reduction' to accurately price vulnerable exchange options. The model provides an effective and accurate mathematical solution, enabling quick deployment without long calculations.

SourcePusan National University·JournalThe North American Journal of Economics and Finance·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

Moons may yield clues to what makes planets habitable

Researchers found that only certain types of planets can form large moons in respect to their host planets. They propose that smaller planets are better candidates to host fractionally large moons. This study provides constraints for future observations and sheds light on the formation of Earth's unique moon.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

More than 9,000 tree species yet to be discovered

A new study estimates that there are approximately 73,274 tree species on Earth, with 9,186 still to be discovered. This represents a 14% increase from previous estimates of 60,000 and 64,000 species. The majority of these undiscovered species are found in South America, highlighting the importance of forest conservation efforts.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022

New study supports pricing long-acting injectable cabotegravir to compete with generic oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that the value of long-acting injectable cabotegravir for HIV prevention is comparable to generic oral alternatives. The study found that CAB-LA's superiority over oral PrEP among high-risk individuals would not justify a large price difference.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022

Prioritized supportive care needs of patients and caregivers during active cancer treatment

A new study from Regenstrief Institute identifies divergent priorities among cancer patients and their caregivers during active treatment, with patients focusing on physical issues like pain and caregivers prioritizing social support. The research emphasizes the need for enhanced whole-family approaches to supportive oncology care deli...

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJCO Oncology Practice·DateFeb 1, 2022

Study: 30-second single-leg stand better identifies post-concussive impairments in children and teens

A recent study suggests that the 30-second single-leg stance is an effective task for identifying balance deficits in children and teens who have sustained a concussion. This assessment may help clinicians distinguish symptomatic children from those who have clinically recovered better and faster.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Sport Rehabilitation·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Taking time with sound

Nagoya University researchers have discovered how bird brains compute time differences between sounds reaching each ear to determine their location. This process relies on the clustering of nerve junctions in specialized dendrites dedicated to low-frequency sounds.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Use of melatonin supplements among US adults

A survey of 55,000 US adults found that melatonin supplement use rose substantially over nearly two decades. The study's findings suggest a shift in attitudes towards supplements and health, highlighting the growing demand for natural health products.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 1, 2022

European report reveals a massive treatment gap and disparities in osteoporosis care

A new European report reveals a massive treatment gap and disparities in osteoporosis care, with significant economic burden and projected increases in fragility fractures. The report emphasizes the need for improved service provision and uptake, particularly in countries with high disease burdens.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalArchives of Osteoporosis·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022

The Lancet Global Health: Industry arguments against alcohol labelling influencing policy discussions at World Trade Organisation, study suggests

A qualitative study found that industry arguments against alcohol health warning labels were cited by World Trade Organization representatives, despite not being explicitly stated as industry demands. This highlights the need for greater transparency and curbing the alcohol industry's influence on global policy implementation.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeCase study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Female primary care physicians face a higher electronic health record workload than male counterparts

A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that female primary care physicians spend 20% more time working in the electronic health record than their male counterparts. The increased workload was attributed to a higher volume of messages received from staff and patients, which may contribute to burnout rates among female PCPs.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

New Earth Trojan asteroid

The discovery of 2020 XL5, the second Earth Trojan asteroid, provides significant insights into the early conditions of the Solar System. The asteroid's stable orbit around the L4 or L5 Lagrangian points makes it an ideal candidate for future space missions.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

COVID-19 patients may need less oxygen than previously thought

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that all individual COVID-19 patients with low oxygen saturation levels may need lower oxygen flows than previously believed. The study's results suggest that oxygen requirements for severely ill patients are significantly lower than the World Health Organization's estimated 10 l/min.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

The power of chaos: a robust and low-cost cryptosystem for the post-quantum era

A team of researchers from Ritsumeikan University developed an unprecedented stream cipher using chaos theory to create highly secure cryptographic systems. The new system is resistant to statistical attacks and eavesdropping, even against quantum computers, making it a promising solution for post-quantum era cryptosystems.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Circuits and Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

People who have taken sick leave due to cancer have greater difficulty to continue working and enjoy less job stability

A new study by researchers at the Center for Research in Occupational Health found that people who have taken sick leave due to cancer are more likely to struggle with returning to work. The study also highlights the impact of cancer and its treatment on long-term employment, with men facing greater challenges than women.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2022

ESMO-WHO collaboration in Kazakhstan yields evidence-based approach for closing the gaps in access to high-quality cancer care

The ESMO-WHO collaboration developed an evidence-based methodology for evaluating national medication formularies, helping Kazakhstan update its list of essential cancer medicines and treatment protocols. The approach resulted in increased budget allocation to cancer care and improved access to high-quality treatments.

NYU Tandon professor examines the issue of battery recyclability

A new study by NYU Tandon professor Nikhil Gupta explores the recyclability of lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries, highlighting the need for a circular economy approach. While lead acid batteries have a high recycling efficiency, lithium-ion batteries pose significant challenges due to their rapidly evolving chemistry and cell design.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalJournal of the Indian Institute of Science·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 1, 2022

Hepatitis E virus -- hard to break down

A recent study found that most common hand disinfectants are ineffective against the hepatitis E virus (HEV), a leading cause of acute liver inflammation worldwide. Despite being non-enveloped and highly resistant to chemical influences, HEV can still be infectious after exposure to certain disinfectants.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

TERAVOLT study identifies seven factors that increase mortality risk for patients with COVID-19

A recent study by TERAVOLT identified seven major determinants of death from SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with thoracic malignancies, including poor ECOG-PS and laboratory confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. The study found a high all-cause case fatality rate of 24.2% among patients with COVID-19 and thoracic cancer.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 1, 2022

Roadmap for rolling out COVID-19 risk mitigation initiatives at educational institutions

Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina and Clemson University published a roadmap for rolling out COVID-19 risk mitigation initiatives in educational institutions. The roadmap outlines a theory-based framework for evaluating the success of exposure notification mobile apps, which can help institutions hit the ground running.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJMIR Research Protocols·DateFeb 1, 2022

New super-conductors could take data beyond zeroes and ones

Researchers have developed conducting systems that control electron spin and transmit a spin current over long distances without ultra-cold temperatures. This breakthrough enables the creation of new technologies for encoding and transmitting information at room temperature.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Cover crops help squash squash their pathogens

A recent study found that cover cropping can reduce the population of Pseudomonas syringae, a common bacterial pathogen affecting agricultural crops. The researchers also discovered an increase in beneficial microbes such as Sphingomonas and Methylobacterium, which have been used as biocontrol agents against pathogens.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalPhytobiomes Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Even dying stars can still give birth to planets

Researchers discovered that a large cavity in the discs surrounding evolved binary stars could be evidence of planet formation. The presence of heavy elements on the surface of dying stars suggests that dust particles rich in these elements were trapped by planets, supporting this hypothesis.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateFeb 1, 2022

Solar energy means the sun’ll come out tomorrow for cost-effective decarbonization, Surrey expert demonstrates

A University of Surrey expert emphasizes the economic case for solar energy, citing IRENA data that shows 61% of US coal capacity costs more to operate than building new renewables. Retiring uneconomic coal plants and replacing them with renewables can save significant costs and reduce emissions.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 1, 2022

Early childhood exposure to lead in drinking water associated with increased teen delinquency risk

A new study by Indiana University researchers found that children exposed to lead in drinking water before age 6 have a higher risk of being reported for delinquency after age 14. The study highlights the need for recognition of risks to children relying on private well water and access to clean drinking water.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2022

Did you hear what he did?

A new study by Arizona State University and Columbia University reveals that people are more likely to divulge another person's secret when they consider the behavior immoral, often driven by a desire to punish. This phenomenon is specific to secrets, whereas public information is driven by gossiping motivations.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Exercise may boost impact of pre-surgical chemo in patients with food pipe (oesophageal) cancer

A comparative trial found that exercise 'prehab' significantly enhanced tumour shrinkage and downstaging in patients with operable oesophageal cancer. The study showed improved skeletal muscle mass, reduced visceral fat, and a stronger immune response in the prehab group compared to conventional care.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 1, 2022

How Omicron escapes from antibodies

A computational study finds that Omicron's spike protein has evolved to evade multiple classes of antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2, even those from vaccinated individuals and monoclonal antibody treatments. The study suggests vaccines still offer protection due to the development of T cell immunity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

Obesity may increase risk of some female reproductive disorders

A study published in PLOS Medicine found associations between obesity and various female reproductive conditions. Researchers used Mendelian randomization to investigate causal links between body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, and risk of conditions like uterine fibroids and pre-eclampsia.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy linked to childhood trauma

Research suggests a strong link between childhood trauma and vaccine hesitancy, with 3 times higher rates among those who experienced 4 or more trauma types. This is associated with lower trust in health services and increased likelihood of flouting COVID-19 restrictions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Historic buildings could be protected from rising energy bills by solar panels

A new study by University of Bath researchers suggests that installing solar panels on historic buildings like Bath Abbey could significantly reduce energy bills and carbon emissions. The proposed system would generate around 45 Mega-Watt hours per year, saving approximately 10 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalEnergy Science & Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

Story tips: DNA in a drop, printing in the wind, drier air, revealing hidden biology and calculating better batteries

Researchers use environmental DNA to monitor aquatic species near hydropower facilities, while also developing a novel method for printing full-strength steel components using additive manufacturing. These advancements could lead to more efficient and cost-effective monitoring and renewable energy production.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022

Treatment keeps alcoholic monkeys from drinking as much

Researchers discovered that a hormone called FGF21 suppresses alcohol consumption in primates by altering neural transmission in the brain. This finding provides a mechanism for a liver-to-brain endocrine feedback loop to protect the liver from damage and may lead to potential treatment options for alcohol use disorder.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Brown researchers develop new model to investigate fibrosis treatments without use of animals

Researchers at Brown University have developed a new laboratory test model to investigate fibrosis treatments without the use of animals. The model uses human cells and replicates not only the structure of human tissue but also its mechanics, enabling scientists to study the underlying mechanisms of fibrosis and test potential treatments.

SourceBrown University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

OSU finds little genetic basis for some sea stars staying healthy amid deadly wasting syndrome

Healthy-looking ochre sea stars have minimal genetic difference from those displaying symptoms of sea star wasting syndrome. The scientists found no significant genetic variation between healthy and sick individuals, raising concerns about the species' resilience in the face of future outbreaks. However, they identified some genomic re...

SourceOregon State University·JournalMolecular Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 1, 2022

Mass customization can make fashion more sustainable if customers are willing to wait for it

A new study suggests that mass customization can generate higher profits and reduce environmental waste considerably when overproduction is a problem. Customers willing to wait for bespoke clothing can make the fashion industry more environmentally sustainable.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

CHOP researchers use deep learning to find genetic causes of mental health disorders in frequently understudied African American population

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia used deep learning to analyze whole genome sequencing data from African American patients with mental disorders. The model demonstrated over 70% accuracy in distinguishing between disorders and identifying multiple disorders.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022

The genetics of flower power: Hidden link between genes and flower formation revealed

A team of researchers at UMass Amherst identified the specific genes responsible for growth suppression in maize flowers, including GRASSY TILLERS1 and RAMOSA3. These findings provide insights into the evolution of life on earth and have implications for plant breeding, benefiting humans from apples to corn.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2022

Pictorial warnings could reduce purchases of sugary drinks

A trial found that parents bought fewer sugary drinks when products displayed pictorial warnings about type 2 diabetes or heart damage. Pictorial warnings are being explored as a strategy to reduce children's intake of sugary drinks and related health outcomes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 1, 2022

Geography affects mental health care

A new study found that rural patients rely on primary care physicians and nurses more often, leading to higher copays and out-of-pocket costs for mental health care. The usage gap narrowed over time, but quality and cost of care remained inequitable.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalThe Journal of Rural Health·DateFeb 1, 2022

Study finds higher risk in families of Black patients with inherited heart muscle disease

A study led by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center finds that Black patients with dilated cardiomyopathy have a higher risk of family members being affected. The research analyzed data from 1,220 patients and their relatives, revealing that 39% of Black patients had at least one first-degree family member with the condition.

C-Path and the European Joint Programme on Rare Diseases to expand global impact and partnership

The collaboration aims to create an interoperable global data ecosystem for rare diseases, accelerating the development of new therapies. This partnership benefits patients, regulators, advocacy stakeholders, researchers, and industry, while expanding C-Path's global capabilities in collaborating on methodologies and technologies.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2022