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Science News for February 2, 2022


A horse slicker is just a horse slicker, of course, of course, unless it can monitor chronic disease

A new study by Purdue University engineers has developed a horse slicker that can monitor chronic diseases in horses using e-textiles. The technology allows for continuous monitoring of equine cardiac, respiratory, and muscular systems, enabling early detection of disease flare-ups and improving treatment decisions.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

“Taste” and “smell” of coral reefs provide insights into a dynamic ecosystem

Scientists have characterized thousands of small molecules in coral reef ecosystems, providing insights into food web dynamics and chemical ecology. The study found that corals and seaweeds release diverse compounds that influence nutrient concentrations and availability in the ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Nearly 1,000 mysterious strands revealed in Milky Way’s center

Researchers discover nearly 1,000 mysterious filaments stretching up to 150 light years long, found in pairs and clusters, with magnetic fields amplified along the filaments. The study sheds new light on the origins of these structures, which are likely related to past activity of the Milky Way's central supermassive black hole.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

First 3D structure of regulator protein revealed

Scientists at the University of Münster and Max Planck Institute have clarified the molecular basis for cellular degradation processes by elucidating the 3D structure of Mon1/Ccz1. The complex determines which vesicles deliver their content to the lysosome, a key step in protein regulation.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Suicides by drug overdose increased among young people, elderly people, and Black women, despite overall downward trend

A recent study found an increase in intentional drug overdose deaths among young people aged 15-24, older adults aged 75-84, and non-Hispanic Black women. Despite a downward trend in overall deaths, these subgroups saw a rise in intentional overdose death rates, with women ages 45 to 64 having the highest rates.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 2, 2022

UCLA Health team develops new mouse model to shed light on the mystery surrounding Huntington’s disease onset and improve the targeting of potential therapies

Researchers have developed a new mouse model of Huntington's disease that recapitulates more disease-like characteristics than earlier models. The study provides new clues to the mystery surrounding genetic mutations and gives researchers a powerful tool to test new therapies.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Disadvantage impacts white men’s perception of privilege

A study by Cornell University researchers found that white men who have faced disadvantages at work, particularly those related to social identities such as disability or sexual orientation, are more likely to acknowledge their own racial privileges and empathize with the experiences of other groups. The research involved 5,124 white m...

SourceCornell University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateFeb 2, 2022

ADHD medicine may treat symptoms of genetic movement disorder in children, University of Maryland School of Medicine study finds

A University of Maryland School of Medicine study finds that a common ADHD medication, lisdexamfetamine, reduces symptoms of a rare genetic movement disorder in children, including collapsing episodes and improvements in speech and concentration. The treatment may also shed light on the mechanisms behind other neuromuscular diseases.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalMovement Disorders Clinical Practice·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Team led by University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center researcher develops and validates three-in-one CAR T therapy

A team led by Reshmi Parameswaran at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center has developed a novel approach to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy for B-cell cancers, which triples the targeted antigens on cancer cells. The new BAFF CART product is effective in killing multiple B-cell cancers with minimal side effects.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2022

Hummingbirds exert fine control over body heat

Researchers discovered multiple levels of torpor in hummingbirds, including shallow and deep states, as well as a transition stage between normal sleep and torpor. This flexible control allows hummingbirds to conserve energy while minimizing potential costs, such as increased vulnerability to disease or predation.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Shocked zircon find a ‘one-off gift’ from Mars

Researchers found evidence of high-intensity damage caused by asteroid impact in a Martian meteorite, challenging previous findings on early Mars habitability. The discovery provides new insights into dynamic processes that affected the young planet's surface.

SourceCurtin University·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Reassessing radon as a reliable groundwater tracer

Researchers reassess radon's accuracy for tracing natural radioactive atoms in flowing groundwater. A new study reveals that the equilibrium assumption used in previous measurements may be flawed, throwing doubt on radon transfer rates.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateFeb 2, 2022

Coordinated conservation and restoration critical to save Asia’s threatened native trees

A new study reveals that South and Southeast Asia's native tree diversity is at risk of extinction, with only 10% of ranges suitable for conservation. Coordinated conservation and restoration efforts are critical to prevent further destruction and biodiversity loss.

Genetic study suggests more sensitive people respond better to couple’s therapy

A genetic study published at Queen Mary University of London found that individuals with higher genetic sensitivity benefit more from couple's therapy, particularly in the long-term. The researchers used genome-wide data to assess genetic sensitivity and found that it had a significant impact on marital satisfaction over time.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Virtual tours make pig farming more transparent

Researchers at the University of Göttingen found that virtual farm tours using virtual reality glasses and tablets can improve transparency in pig farming. Participants appreciated the comfortable and entertaining information intake, but suggested that additional explanations be provided to support virtual farm tours.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 2, 2022

Unique strengths and facilitators in American Indian and Alaska Native communities can help reduce food insecurity

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior reveals that unique strengths and facilitators within American Indian and Alaska Native communities can help reduce food insecurity. The study found that cultural values such as sharing and supporting one another can improve healthy food access for older adults.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

New expert review of the global approach to rehabilitation following fragility fracture

A new review by the International Osteoporosis Foundation highlights the importance of comprehensive post-fracture care, including exercise, nutrition, physiotherapy, and patient education. The study concludes that individualized exercise approaches can improve recovery and reduce future fracture risk.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 2, 2022

Molecular profiling of meningioma can lead to improved prognosis and therapy

A team of researchers at Baylor College of Medicine has developed a new approach to classify meningiomas into three biologically distinct groups, one of which is reliably malignant. This classification system, which integrates multiple molecular profiling approaches, provides better prognosis and reveals tumors that require more aggres...

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Analysis of 20-year study finds malaria control in young children saves lives into adulthood

A 22-year study in Tanzania found that children who slept under bed nets at an early age had a 40% higher survival rate compared to those who didn't. The study tracked over 6,700 children and provided unique insights into the long-term benefits of malaria control in young children.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Japanese squirrels can consume 'poisonous' mushrooms

A Japanese squirrel's feeding behavior on poisonous Amanita species has been observed, suggesting a potential mutualistic relationship. The study found that the spores of these fungi may survive being eaten and excreted by squirrels, facilitating their dispersal.

SourceKobe University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

COVID forecasting method using hospital and cellphone data proves it can reliably guide US cities through pandemic threats

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a reliable COVID-19 forecasting system using hospital admissions data and cellphone mobility data. The system has been used by 22 municipal areas in Texas to manage healthcare resources and communicate pandemic risks.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2022

Photodynamic therapy with chlorin e-6 can be effective auxiliary treatment for dental caries

The study demonstrated that photodynamic therapy (PDT) using chlorin e-6 can effectively reduce bacterial plaque biofilms containing cariogenic microorganisms, including Streptococcus mutans. The treatment eliminated S. mutans and decreased total microorganisms by up to 3.7 units, with approximately 99% efficacy of antimicrobial activity.

For young people with meniscal tears, surgery and exercise are equally effective

A new study published in NEJM Evidence reveals that exercise and patient education can provide similar results as surgery for young people with meniscal tears. The research compared surgical and non-surgical treatment options among 121 young individuals and found no significant difference in outcomes between the two groups.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalNEJM Evidence·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 2, 2022

A naturally-occurring metabolite is a potent senolytic in both mice and human cell culture

Researchers at the Buck Institute discovered a naturally occurring metabolite, 25-hydroxycholesteral, that significantly reduces senescent cells in multiple cell types and improves muscle mass in aged mice. The molecule targets CRYAB, a small heat shock protein associated with age-related diseases like myopathies.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Post-pandemic, urban planners are seeking a return to ‘old normal’ in downtown areas

Researchers at the University of Waterloo found that urban planners are focusing on restoring pre-pandemic downtown functions, with increased use of outdoor spaces and mixed-use development. However, government intervention is seen as a challenge to revitalization efforts due to reduced public investment in mid-sized cities.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPlanning Practice and Research·DateFeb 2, 2022

Not living the dream: Millennials locked out of housing market by older generations

A new research paper from the University of South Australia reveals that older generations hold a significant portion of housing properties, locking out younger Millennials. The study highlights how government policies designed to protect one generation can hinder another, creating severe housing tenure inequalities.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalProperty Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2022

Research advances technology of AI assistance for anesthesiologists

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm to automate propofol dosing for unconscious patients, matching human performance in sophisticated simulations. The 'dose penalty' model improved upon traditional software, but limitations remain, highlighting challenges in AI system accuracy and real-world application.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalArtificial Intelligence in Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2022

How machine learning can improve food insecurity predictions

Researchers found that machine learning models can help predict village food insecurity outcomes in Sub-Saharan African countries. The models incorporate publicly available data on weather, geography, and food prices to capture a wide variety of factors that can influence food insecurity. Key takeaways include the need for interpretabl...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalApplied Economic Perspectives and Policy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2022

Researchers set record by preserving quantum states for more than 5 seconds

Researchers have achieved a record breakthrough by preserving quantum states for over 5 seconds, utilizing silicon carbide, a widely available material. This advancement enables the development of scalable and cost-effective quantum innovation, including potential applications in quantum communication networks and quantum computers.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Lighting up tough pancreatic cancers

Researchers have designed a nanoparticle system that can deliver fluorescent dyes to diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer tumors. The system overcomes the challenge of reaching cells deep within dense tumor masses, enabling detailed images of tumor structures and potentially targeted therapies.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJACS Au·DateFeb 2, 2022

Optimizing indoor light conditions to mimic the natural light-dark cycle could help mitigate adverse metabolic effects of extended periods of exposure to indoor lighting

A study found that bright light during daylight hours and dim light in the evening improves glucose metabolism, thermoregulation, and energy expenditure. In contrast, a dim day with bright evening led to reduced postprandial glucose levels despite unchanged insulin levels.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateFeb 2, 2022

UMass Amherst study examines associations between contraceptive methods and early menopause

A UMass Amherst study found associations between oral contraceptive use and certain tubal ligation methods with lower levels of antimüllerian hormone (AMH), a biomarker for ovarian aging. This may suggest an increased risk for early menopause in women who have used oral contraceptives or undergone specific types of tubal ligation.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalMenopause·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

New study estimates prevalence of undiagnosed HIV in children in sub-Saharan Africa

A new study by CUNY SPH researchers estimates that nearly 40% of children living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa are undiagnosed, highlighting the urgent need for improved pediatric testing coverage. The study found that only 55% of children on ART had suppressed viral loads, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

More spice could help seniors avoid salt

Researchers found that adding chipotle seasoning to white sauce formulations made it difficult for older adults to differentiate between low and high levels of salt. Conversely, herbs like basil leaves and garlic powder were not as effective at masking salty flavors.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFood Quality and Preference·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Study finds concerning variations in care between physicians of the same specialty and in the same city, delivering care in the same clinical scenarios

A new study published in JAMA Health Forum found significant variations in care delivery among physicians with the same specialty and city, despite delivering care in the same clinical scenarios. The researchers analyzed medical insurance records from 2016 to 2019 and found that top-performing physicians were five to 10 times more like...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2022

Tackling an epidemic

The opioid crisis in the US has reached epidemic levels, with over 100,000 drug overdose deaths reported for the first time. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention attributes the rise to abuse of synthetic opioid fentanyl and the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Lancet·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 2, 2022

An insulin patch that sticks inside a person’s cheek

Researchers have developed a prototype insulin-loaded patch that comfortably sticks to the inside of a person's cheek, offering a less invasive way to manage blood sugar levels. The patch, activated by heat, releases insulin into the bloodstream several times faster than through skin, showing promise for diabetes treatment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateFeb 2, 2022

What is your dog’s lifespan? You might be surprised

The Dog Aging Project is a groundbreaking study that has enrolled over 32,000 dogs to understand the aging process. Researchers are using this dataset to identify biomarkers of canine aging and potential genetic factors contributing to exceptional longevity, which they hope will translate to human health.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Study of Penn patients with decade-long leukemia remissions after Car T cell therapy reveals new details about persistence of personalized “living drug” cells

Researchers discovered two patients with CAR T cell therapy achieved the longest-known remission to date, providing new details about treatment effects and outcomes. The study shows that the infused CAR T cells remained detectable for at least a decade, with sustained remission in both patients.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 2022

The Lancet: Over 1.2 million additional opioid overdose deaths expected in North America by 2029, with epidemic set to expand globally, experts warn

The opioid crisis is predicted to grow exponentially in North America, adding 1.2 million more overdose deaths by 2029. The epidemic began in the 1990s and has worsened over the past decade due to the availability of illicit opioids like heroin and fentanyl.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 2, 2022

The key to a powerful antibiotic’s formation now clear

Researchers have imaged an enzyme involved in carbapenem biosynthesis, shedding light on the process of creating a potent side chain that makes these antibiotics effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The discovery could lead to improved antibiotics and new strategies for combating bacterial resistance.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 2, 2022

A new, nanoscale, 3D structure to control light

Researchers at Penn State developed a computational optimizer to design a 3D unit cell with cube-shaped cavities that enables asymmetric transmission of linearly polarized light across a wide frequency range. The optimized design was successfully fabricated and tested, demonstrating robust optical properties.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 2, 2022