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Science News for February 17, 2022


First study to analyse brain changes associated with juvenile fibromyalgia

A study published in Arthritis and Rheumatology characterizes grey matter volume alterations in adolescents affected by juvenile fibromyalgia, revealing a link between brain region activity and pain processing. The research suggests therapeutic strategies to modulate the activity in brain circuits involved with emotion and language.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Research roundup: E-cigs aren’t safe

A recent review of e-cigarette research highlights the significant health risks associated with vaping, including lung inflammation and injury. The study found that e-cigarettes can cause negative effects in multiple organs, from the brain to the bladder, and may even increase the risk of lung cancer.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalAnnual Review of Physiology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 17, 2022

Nanoantennas for light controlled electrically

Scientists at Linköping University have created optical nanoantennas using conducting polymers that can switch between metallic and dielectric properties. The researchers achieved electrical control of the nanoantennas, enabling gradual tuning by applying external bias potentials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Sediment cores from ocean floor could contain 23-million-year-old climate change clues

Researchers from Texas A&M University have discovered past methane release in the Southern Ocean during a peak glaciation 23 million years ago. This finding suggests that ancient methane gas hydrates could contribute to ocean acidification and low oxygen levels, similar to recent environmental issues in the Gulf of Mexico.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeNews article·DateFeb 17, 2022

Extremely rare observation of 'tennis-like' vibrations of lead

Physicists at the Polish Academy of Sciences have observed 'tennis-like' vibrations in lead nuclei excited by high-energy proton collisions, a phenomenon previously seen only once over three decades ago. The researchers used advanced detectors to measure gamma quanta and confirm oscillations in the nucleus.

Illinois musicians, chemists use sound to better understand science

Researchers at the University of Illinois used sonification to analyze data and teach protein folding, leading to a new discovery about protein folding mechanisms. Musicians collaborated with chemists to create audio-mapped visualizations that complemented traditional views, increasing intuition for experts.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Chemical Education·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

How picking up your smartphone could reveal your identity

Researchers found that smartphone app usage patterns can be used to identify individuals with over 30% accuracy. The study analyzed data from 780 people and showed consistent patterns in application usage behaviors on a day-to-day basis. This highlights the potential risks to privacy when using apps automatically collected by smartphones.

SourceLancaster University·JournalPsychological Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Depression and Alzheimer’s disease share genetic roots

A new study identifies common genetic factors in depression and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a potential causal role of depression on dementia. The research found that depression played a significant role in AD development, with those experiencing worse depression experiencing faster memory decline.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Public administration should consider effects of whiteness, masculinity, as well as representation, researchers say

New research from the University of Kansas suggests that representative bureaucracy is a positive step, but the neutral effects of white male overrepresentation need further understanding. The study argues that acknowledging the value of diverse perspectives can improve outcomes for all members of a community.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalPublic Administration Review·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Algorithm optimizes trade-offs in Amazonian hydropower expansion

A new computational approach reveals opportunities for more sustainable hydropower development in the Amazon, considering environmental criteria like river flow and fish biodiversity. The algorithm minimizes environmental impacts while achieving energy production goals, providing tools for policy discussions on sustainable development.

OSU research uncovers impact of leisure activities on mental health during pandemic

A recent OSU study found that engaging in leisure activities can help lower the risk of depression and improve mental well-being during the pandemic. The results showed that people who reported higher stress also engaged more in their preferred leisure activity, which served as a protective buffer.

SourceOregon State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 17, 2022

COVID-19 pandemic brought humanity closer to the next stage of technological revolution

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated humanity's transition to a new technological stage, particularly in fields like medicine, biotech, and robotics. This shift is expected to bring about significant socio-political changes, including the development of an e-state and the increasing role of sociotechnical systems in managing society.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·DateFeb 17, 2022

Exploring Indian genetic heritage in present-day Thailand

A new genetic study found evidence of South Asian genetic admixture in several mainland Southeast Asian populations influenced by Indian culture. The researchers also discovered close genetic links between languages from different families, supporting an earlier hypothesis about their common origin.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

What will a CO2-neutral Switzerland cost us?

A study published in Frontiers in Energy Research calculates the costs of a CO2-neutral Switzerland, finding that three different energy systems would require significant investments and increased energy costs. The most efficient option is electrifying the entire energy supply, but this comes with the challenge of storing enough renewa...

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalFrontiers in Energy Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 17, 2022

New DNA computer assesses water quality

A new DNA-based device can detect contamination levels in water, providing a more accurate picture of water quality. The device uses genetic networks to mimic electronic circuits and can detect zinc, lead, and other contaminants at varying concentrations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

A fish story with a human tell

Researchers used an ancient fish, elephant sharks, to gain insights into human biology and how a widely used medication works. The findings show that progesterone receptor activation in humans requires a different mix of hormones and steroids than in elephants sharks, with the latter not inhibited by RU486.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateFeb 17, 2022

Stanford Medicine study shows differences between brains of girls, boys with autism

A new Stanford University School of Medicine study has identified unique differences in the brains of girls and boys with autism, which may help explain why symptoms differ between the sexes. The research used AI techniques to analyze hundreds of brain scans, revealing distinct patterns that were not found in typically developing boys ...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 17, 2022

Large-scale study of North American eagles reveals unexpectedly high frequencies and population-level consequences of lead poisoning

A large-scale study of North American eagles found unexpectedly high frequencies of both chronic and acute lead poisoning. The study revealed that adults are more frequently chronically poisoned than younger species, and that regional trends play a significant role in the frequency of lead exposure.

A boost to sulfur metabolism

A recent study by ITQB NOVA scientists uncovered the crucial role of a small marker protein, DsrD, in increasing metabolic activity for sulfate respiration. The findings suggest that DsrD acts as an allosteric activator of the DsrAB dissimilatory sulfite reductase, enhancing energy efficiency in microbial metabolism.

Core strength could help dogs avoid knee injuries

A study of over 1,200 agility dogs found that core strength exercises and balance activities can lower the risk of cranial cruciate ligament ruptures. Dogs that engage in high-level agility events and flyball are at higher risk, while those with certain breeds and age factors may also be more prone to injury.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBMC Veterinary Research·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 17, 2022

Rogue antibodies make cells “sticky” to trigger blood clots in COVID-19 patients

Researchers found higher-than-expected levels of antiphospholipid autoantibodies in COVID-19 patients, causing endothelial cell activation and promoting clotting. Removing these antibodies from blood samples lost the activation effect, suggesting a potential cause of severe COVID-19 symptoms.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

UTSA collaborative study with DoD and VA aims to heighten awareness, improve care for veterans with traumatic brain injury

A UTSA-led study found that post-9/11 military veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at higher risk of chronic disease, mortality, and mental health issues compared to the general population. The study estimates excess deaths among a large cohort of veterans and highlights the need for better methods of intervening.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateFeb 17, 2022

Using an “unseen species” model to estimate survival rates of medieval literature uncovers surprising differences between persistence of works in different languages

A team of researchers used an 'unseen species' model to estimate the original population of medieval European literature and discovered surprising differences in persistence across languages. The study found that island literatures were more resilient, with Icelandic and Irish works showing high survival rates.

Facial recognition technology taken to the next level in virtual reality

Researchers developed a system using facial expressions to manipulate objects in virtual reality environments, outperforming handheld controllers in terms of immersion. The technique has potential applications for people with disabilities, including amputees and those with motor neurone disease, allowing hands-free interactions.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Human-Computer Studies·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Professor’s M-Score model remains most viable means of predicting corporate fraud

A new study co-authored by Indiana University professor M. Daniel Beneish finds that the M-Score model is still the most economically viable means of predicting corporate fraud. The model's success rate has been doubled, but at a higher cost of false positives, making it less practical for auditors to use in practice.

SourceIndiana University·JournalThe Accounting Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

CityU’s scholars participate in a global study that reveals broad contamination of pharmaceuticals in the world’s rivers

A recent global study found that more than a quarter of the world's rivers had pharmaceutical concentrations at potentially toxic levels. The study, which included data from over 258 rivers across seven continents, also revealed concurrent contamination by multiple classes of pharmaceuticals.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

A new strategy for counteracting the impact of negative online brand reviews

Researchers found that consumers scrutinize social distance in negative reviews to protect their identities and brands. Displaying reviewers' profiles can highlight social distance and consistency, protecting and benefiting identity-relevant brands after negative reviews. This strategy helps managers cultivate strong brand relationships.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateFeb 17, 2022

SMART researchers discover unique lysin capable of killing deadly multidrug-resistant bacteria

SMART researchers identified a novel phage lysin, Abp013, with promising antimicrobial ability against Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The study demonstrated Abp013's ability to effectively target complex bacterial environments and could advance treatment methods for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalAntibiotics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Continuation versus discontinuation of anti-rheumatic biologics during the perioperative period: What does the evidence support?

Patients who discontinue biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) before orthopaedic surgery are more likely to experience a disease flare following surgery. However, discontinuing bDMARDs does not appear to increase the risk of surgical site infections or delayed wound healing. The review and meta-analysis highlights ...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 17, 2022

CNIO researchers design a drug screening platform compatible with patient biopsies to fight metastasis

Researchers have designed METPlatform, a drug screening platform compatible with patient biopsies, to investigate patients' own tumour tissue. The platform has identified new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for aggressive brain metastases, suggesting HSP90 inhibitors as potential treatments.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2022

New study finds high-touch surfaces in long-term care facilities are frequently contaminated with potentially infectious material

A study published in American Journal of Infection Control found that 90% of high-touch surfaces in LTC facilities were positive for crAssphage or had organic material levels indicating contamination. This suggests that auditing programs to improve infection prevention could benefit LTC facilities.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

A novel method to diagnose model uncertainties in projecting the South Asian summer monsoon

Researchers revealed key sources of uncertainty in projecting the South Asian summer monsoon's circulation under global warming, attributing it to tropospheric meridional thermal contrast. A novel diagnostic method identified atmospheric dynamics, cloud radiation effects as dominant contributors to uncertainty.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateFeb 17, 2022

Scientists pinpoint genetic target with promise for treating many forms of blindness

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have pinpointed a key driver gene, SARM1, that contributes to impaired vision and blindness. Deleting this gene shows promise in preserving vision, suggesting targeted therapies may offer long-lasting preservation of sight for various ocular conditions.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

CPRIT supports work on combo cancer therapy

Rice University's Gang Bao receives $1 million CPRIT grant to develop a three-pronged strategy combining magnetic nanoparticles, free radical generation, and immune checkpoint blockade to kill cancer cells. The approach aims to increase the efficacy of cancer therapy, potentially leading to a clinical trial.

*Free* A new framework to assess health outcomes from endocrine-disrupting chemical mixtures

Researchers have developed a new framework to evaluate the health impacts of endocrine-disrupting chemical mixtures. A large cohort study found that prenatal exposure to these chemicals may be associated with language delay in children, highlighting the need for risk assessments to account for mixture effects.

A novel evaluation framework for energy neutrality potential of wastewater treatment plants

Researchers propose a novel evaluation framework to assess energy neutrality in wastewater treatment plants, integrating energy efficiency and recovery. The study evaluated 970 plants in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, identifying 98 energy benchmark plants and 112 fully energy self-sufficient facilities.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Fungus found to synthesize valuable compounds in perennial plant found in Northern Asia

A study discovered that fungus Cyanodermella asteris synthesizes valuable compounds in plant Aster tataricus, influencing its growth. The interaction reveals a two-way dialogue between the microbe and host, with the fungus producing beneficial compounds while also being influenced by plant hormones.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

MRI may lower breast cancer deaths from variants in 3 genes

Annual MRI screenings starting at ages 30-35 may reduce breast-cancer mortality by more than 50% among women who carry certain genetic changes in three genes. The predictions involve pathogenic variants in ATM, CHEK2 and PALB2 genes – which collectively are as prevalent as the much-reported BRCA1/2 gene mutations.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 17, 2022

Southampton-led study shows need for painkiller caution to prevent kidney damage

A recent study led by Dr Simon Fraser from the University of Southampton found that painkiller prescriptions decreased during the pandemic, but high-risk individuals continued to receive them. The research highlights the need for greater caution when prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to prevent kidney damage.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalBJGP Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Key advance in neurological disorder pre-clinical testing

Scientists at Flinders University have developed a new petri-dish that can grow and age live brain cells from patients, enhancing future studies on conditions like dementia, Parkinson's, epilepsy, and autism. The innovation could lead to more effective targeted drug treatments with reduced wait times.

SourceFlinders University·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Stanford researchers take “protein circuits” a step closer to cell-to-cell communication

Stanford researchers have made a breakthrough in developing protein circuits that can enable cell-to-cell communication, mimicking the natural process of cells interacting with neighboring cells. The new platform, RELEASE, allows proteins to be secreted and displayed on the cell surface, enabling cells to respond to these signals.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 17, 2022

Survey heightens concern about pandemic’s impact on education of students with autism

A recent online survey found that pandemic-related school closures have a disproportionate negative impact on students with autism. The study reveals differences in the psychological impact of the pandemic on neurotypical and autistic children, highlighting the need for alternative ways to support autistic children's educational goals.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalFrontiers in Education·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 17, 2022

Study finds ulcerated plaque in the femoropopliteal artery as source of arterial embolism in the popliteal arteries

A study of 31 patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) reveals a high correlation between ulcerated plaque in the femoropopliteal artery and poor angiographic runoff scores, suggesting a possible origin for arterial embolism. This discovery could lead to improved treatment methods for PAD.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Child marriages violating statutory rape laws in many US states

A study by McGill University researchers found that child marriages in 14 US states violated statutory rape laws, often due to exemptions allowing sex between married couples. The research highlights the need to reexamine marital exemptions and raise the minimum legal age for marriage to avoid inconsistencies.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

London produces up to a third more methane than estimates suggest

A new study by Imperial College London reveals that London is releasing more methane than previously thought, primarily due to natural gas infrastructure leaks. The findings suggest that upgrading leaky pipes could significantly reduce emissions. This research highlights the importance of atmospheric measurements in tracking progress t...

SourceImperial College London·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Rural low-income households bear a larger share of fuel carbon taxes

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management finds that residents in low-income and rural areas are disproportionately affected by increases in fuel carbon taxes. The researchers discover significant differences across regions and income groups, with higher price pass-through rates in rural areas.

SourceVATT Institute for Economic Research·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

PM2.5 reduction improves kidney function

A population-based study found that reducing ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration led to significant improvements in laboratory test results for kidney function, including increased glomerular filtration rate and decreased blood urea nitrogen and uric acid levels.

SourceHealth Data Science·JournalHealth Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Global Library of Underwater Biological Sounds, “GLUBS,” will help monitor changing marine life

Scientists are creating a global audio collection of aquatic life to monitor changing marine life and identify new species. The GLUBS platform uses ocean hydrophones, AI, and citizen science to analyze soundscapes and track biodiversity on reefs and other ocean habitats.

SourceProgramme for the Human Environment, The Rockefeller University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Sucking millipedes

Researchers discovered a sucking pump in millipedes that is similar to those of insects, enabling them to ingest more liquid food. The study found that the functional tools for liquid-based diets have evolved independently in all major subgroups of arthropods.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Learning in the lab can continue at a distance

A study by University of Georgia researchers found that remote learning programs in labs continued to be effective during the pandemic, with students praising quality mentorship and skills development. However, they also reported missing informal interactions and structure.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalCBE—Life Sciences Education·DateFeb 17, 2022

Finding friends in the Utah State Legislature

A University of Utah-led study examines cooperation networks in the Utah State Legislature, finding that politicians tend to work with colleagues from their own political and gender groups. The researchers discovered a high rate of reciprocation, with members of the same gender increasing the likelihood of future cooperation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalHuman Nature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 17, 2022

Scientists discover how our circadian rhythm can be both strong and flexible

Researchers found that the master clock and slave clock operate via distinct molecular mechanisms, allowing for robustness and flexibility in regulating bodily rhythms. The master clock's ability to adapt to environmental changes enables quick adjustment to new time zones after international flights.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

More chemicals, fewer words: exposure to chemical mixtures during pregnancy alters brain development

A recent study found that exposure to complex mixtures of endocrine disrupting chemicals during pregnancy can impact children's brain development and language acquisition. The research, conducted in collaboration with multiple institutions, used a novel approach linking human population studies with experimental cell and animal models.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 17, 2022