Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 23, 2022


Researchers feed worms a natural plant extract; watch them fatten, live 40% longer

A study led by LSU researchers has found that a natural plant extract called Artemisia scoparia can increase the lifespan of roundworms by 40% and improve their metabolic health. The extract, which is native to Asia, was fed to worms in various doses and showed significant effects on fat regulation and stress resistance.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalJournal of Gerontology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

New work examines importance of early life factors in pubertal development

A nationwide multi-cohort study found that male children who gained weight or grew faster in the first five years of life entered puberty at a younger age. Female children with faster weight gains during infancy and early childhood also started their periods earlier, suggesting sex-specific associations between early growth and puberta...

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 23, 2022

Dual functions of the Interleukin-1 Receptor-Like 2 Cytokine

The IL-1RL2 cytokine has been implicated in the development of inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and IBD, while also promoting the expression of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Its role in controlling infection, including COVID-19 pathology, highlights its potential as a target for therapeutic interventions.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Interferon & Cytokine Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

New study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis marries modern science with traditional knowledge to decipher anti-diarrheal effect of cashew stem bark extract

A new study found that cashew stem bark extract inhibits abnormal gut motility associated with diarrhea, revealing a potential low-cost remedy for treating and managing the condition. The extract's mechanism of action involves blocking muscarinic acetylcholine receptors responsible for gastrointestinal motility.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Children with higher exposure to air pollution and lower exposure to green space have 62% increased risk of ADHD

A study of 37,000 children in Vancouver found a significant association between air pollution and ADHD, as well as the protective effects of green spaces. Children living in areas with higher PM2.5 exposure had an increased risk of ADHD, while those in greener neighborhoods had a lower risk.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironment International·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Reducing carbon emissions of C&D waste in building refurbishment

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Study shows need for national breast milk monitoring programs for PFAS

Researchers analyzed existing studies on PFAS in breast milk, finding that levels of PFOA and PFOS exceeded children's drinking water screening values by up to two orders of magnitude. The study emphasizes the need for a national breastmilk monitoring program to provide credible advice to pregnant or breastfeeding women.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 23, 2022

New power sources

In the 1990s, Massachusetts activists drafted model legislation for community choice aggregation, which has been adopted by 1,800 communities in six states. The program allows cities and towns to purchase renewable energy, reducing reliance on utility companies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateFeb 23, 2022

Digital holography, an answer to soft matter quantitative characterization

A review of digital holography (DH) for measuring and characterizing soft matter structures reveals its strong ability to characterize films and dynamic processes. DH enables accurate and high-precision measurements in various applications, including inkjet printing, additive manufacturing, and advanced fabrication techniques.

New study sheds light on axion dark matter

A new study from Durham University and Kings College London presents a theoretical review strongly supporting the search for axion dark matter. Axions are proposed as a possible explanation for why the strong interaction obeys time reversal symmetry, a fundamental aspect of the Standard Model of particle physics.

SourceDurham University·JournalScience Advances·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 23, 2022

Touch sensitive brain cells controlled by micromagnets

Researchers at UCL have created a technique called magnetomechanical stimulation that uses microscopic magnetic particles to control touch-sensitive brain glial cells. This allows for precise and remote activation of astrocytes, providing a new tool for understanding their function and potential treatment of neurological disorders.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

New molecular mechanism promotes growth of duckweed, an important plant in aquatic ecosystems

Scientists identified a new plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) that enhances duckweed biomass productivity by 2.7-fold, increasing photosynthesis and wastewater treatment efficiency. The molecular mechanism suggests that organic compounds are transferred from the bacteria to duckweed, triggering an increase in photosynthetic activity.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

New awards in science communication totaling $600,000 annually launched by Schmidt Futures and the National Academies

The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Awards for Excellence in Science Communication will provide cash awards and training resources to recognize and develop outstanding science communicators. The program aims to encourage high-quality science communication and build a diverse community of science journalists, research scientists, and institutions.

Predicting the chaos in Tourette Syndrome tics

Researchers have replicated and expanded on previous work to show that tics associated with Tourette syndrome have a fractal pattern, which can predict disease severity. This discovery could lead to a diagnostic tool for doctors to analyze tic patterns and diagnose patients with Tourette's

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2022

A study in which UNEATLANTICO participated, led by Dr. Cubas, demonstrates the benefits of nut consumption in the elderly

A study led by Dr. Cubas found that regular nut consumption is associated with a lower prevalence of abdominal obesity and metabolic syndrome in elderly people in northern Spain. The research, published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, involved 556 participants aged 65-79 years.

SourceUniversidad Europea del Atlantico·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

(Bio)sensing protein interactions

The study reveals new details about the conditions under which WDR5 starts and stops interacting with other proteins, allowing researchers to better understand its multitasking role in cancer. The biosensor's ability to recognize different types of protein connections will help develop more effective drugs to target WDR5.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 23, 2022

Astronomers identify real-life Tatooine using new method

Scientists have successfully identified a real-life Tatooine, the gas giant planet Kepler-16b, orbiting two stars using a new ground-based telescope technique called radial velocity method. This discovery opens the door for applying this method to find other systems with planets that could be habitable.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Mysterious source of fast radio bursts

Researchers have discovered a source of fast radio bursts in the vicinity of galaxy M81, adding to the ongoing mystery surrounding these enigmatic events. The findings suggest that magnetars, highly magnetized neutron stars, may be responsible for generating FRBs, but further study is needed to fully understand this phenomenon.

SourceNicolaus Copernicus University in Torun·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

New 'cocktail' drug could benefit up to 45 per cent of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a new cocktail of treatments that could benefit up to 45% of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The treatment uses an approach called 'exon skipping' to produce the protein needed to rebuild muscle tissue, addressing limitations of existing exon-skipping molecules.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Ethnic minority and migrant women’s struggles in accessing healthcare during COVID-19: an intersectional analysis

A recent study by Dr. Sabrina Germain and Dr. Adrienne Yong found that the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened inequalities in accessing healthcare for ethnic minority and migrant women in the UK. The researchers identified institutional, community perception, and socio-economic barriers that disproportionately affect these groups.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal for Cultural Research·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Offshore wind farms reshape the North Sea

Researchers found shifts in airflows and sea currents downwind of North Sea offshore wind farms, affecting plankton production and the food web structure. The turbines induce atmospheric wakes that redirect existing currents, leading to changed salinity distribution and mean temperatures.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2022

Salt in soluble paracetamol linked to increase risk of cardiovascular disease and death

A large study found a significant link between salt-containing paracetamol and an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, and death. Patients with high blood pressure who took sodium-containing paracetamol had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death compared to those taking non-sodium-containing paracetamol.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Navigation tools could be pointing drivers to the shortest route — but not the safest

A study by Texas A&M researchers found that navigation systems frequently guide drivers to take paths with a greater risk of crashes, despite reducing travel time. The study analyzed road and traffic characteristics in five metropolitan areas and proposed a new system architecture for finding the safest route using navigation systems.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalTransportation Research Part C Emerging Technologies·TypeNews article·DateFeb 23, 2022

Study explores how to reduce bad behaviour at work

A new study explores how to reduce bad behavior at work by focusing on moral self-efficacy, a set of beliefs that individuals have about their capabilities to self-reflect and regulate moral behavior. The results show that highly morally efficacious individuals are more likely to bounce back after a failure and learn from their mistakes.

Researchers from the GIST use artificial intelligence to identify potential unsafe locations in cities

GIST researchers propose a new strategy for crime prevention using artificial intelligence, trained on a large-scale dataset of deviant incident reports and corresponding images. The model, called DevianceNet, can accurately classify and detect deviant places, making it a useful tool in urban safety development.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2022

Robots are increasing mortality among US adults

A new study found a causal link between automation and increasing mortality rates among US adults, with a significant impact on middle-aged men. The study suggests that public policy measures such as strong social safety nets and labor market policies can mitigate the effects of automation on community health.

SourceYale University·JournalDemography·DateFeb 23, 2022

Nanocarrier spray: Better crops without genetic modification

Researchers at RIKEN CSRS have developed a non-transgenic method to modify plant genes using a bioactive molecule spray, which can be used to improve crop yield and resistance to pests. The technique has shown promising results in improving economically desirable quality traits in crops.

SourceRIKEN·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 23, 2022

Public interest technologist argues social media must be governed akin to urban planning

A paper by University of California, Berkeley's Joanne Cheung argues that social media platforms should be governed like urban planning spaces to prioritize public interests. She notes parallels with commercial real estate development and suggests establishing a professional role with ethical principles to serve the public interest.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Social Computing·DateFeb 23, 2022

How well do boosters work? Depends on your genes

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that genetics play a crucial role in how our bodies respond to vaccines and booster shots. The team identified a specific form of an antibody-related gene that predicts whether boosting will be effective for increasing innate immune responses.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateFeb 23, 2022

For the first time: researchers identified brain wounds in IDF veterans with PTSD and relieved their symptoms using hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Researchers from Tel Aviv University found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) relieves PTSD symptoms in treatment-resistant veterans, improving brain function and microstructure. The breakthrough study provides new hope for PTSD sufferers, offering an objective diagnostic tool and potential long-term improvements.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 23, 2022

The last day of the dinosaurs

Researchers analyzed fossilized fish bones from the Tanis locality to reconstruct the latest Cretaceous seasonality. The study reveals that the catastrophic extinction occurred during northern-hemisphere spring and affected sensitive life stages of organisms, including dinosaurs.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 23, 2022

Sensor breakthrough announced in Nature paves way for groundbreaking map of world under Earth surface

Researchers from the University of Birmingham have successfully used a quantum gravity gradiometer to detect an object hidden below ground, marking a significant milestone in the development of this technology. The breakthrough could lead to faster, cheaper, and more comprehensive underground mapping, with potential applications in ind...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

The future of work: What have we learned during the pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to accelerated change in the workplace, with flexible hybrids of the WFH mode emerging and evolving. Research studies have explored lessons learned about WFH, drawing conclusions about challenges and opportunities, and making recommendations for optimizing experiences and outcomes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalWork·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Serious allergic reactions to food among children stabilize since guideline changes

A new study found that serious allergic reactions to food among children have flattened since changes to Australian infant feeding guidelines. The research showed a slowing rate of increase in hospital admissions for food anaphylaxis among young children and teenagers, but overall rates remain high. Experts emphasize the need for effec...

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 23, 2022

Extreme heat linked to increase in mental health emergency care

A nationwide study found that days with higher-than-normal temperatures during the US summer season were associated with increased rates of emergency department visits for any mental health-related condition, particularly substance use and mood disorders. The impact of heat on mental health was similar across age groups and regions, hi...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Princeton Chemistry reports method for direct “uphill” isomerization of numerous olefin classes

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a method to generate less-stable olefins from internal olefins catalytically, utilizing photocatalysis and chromium co-catalysis. This innovation allows for the conversion of internal olefins into terminal olefins, which are useful starting points in various chemical processes.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Patients with rare skin cancer face 40% recurrence rate

Patients with Merkel cell carcinoma face a high risk of recurrence, with 95% of cases occurring within the first three years. The study found that advanced age, male sex, immunosuppression, and known primary lesions are associated with higher recurrence rates, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance efforts.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 23, 2022

Bringing out the best in wild birds on farms

A University of California, Davis study found that farms with surrounding natural habitat experience the most benefits from birds, including less crop damage and lower food-safety risks. The presence of natural habitat was the single most important driver differentiating a farm where wild birds brought more benefits than harm.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 23, 2022

From recession to pandemic, American optimism survives

A new study by Yale School of Medicine reveals that Americans' hopes for a better future have endured despite historical economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic. The research found that people with a more optimistic orientation tend to do better during illnesses, adhere to healthier behaviors, and exhibit better psychological health.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateFeb 23, 2022

Study reveals strong demand for open-access science

A new study from Georgia Tech's School of Public Policy found that nearly half of the reports were downloaded for academic purposes, while even more were accessed by people outside educational settings. The analysis revealed strong demand among users for open-access scientific information to improve their lives, with downloads categori...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Scientists identify neural disruptions underlying feeding, swallowing disorders in children

A study published in Disease Models & Mechanisms reveals that premature differentiation of pain-sensing neurons and increased mechanosensory neuron production contribute to the development of pediatric dysphagia. The researchers found that disruptions in neural crest cell interactions lead to cranial nerve dysfunction.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Cognitive brain function in youth football players can be impaired by repetitive “subconcussive” head impacts

Research finds that subconcussive head impacts in youth football can impair cognitive brain function, particularly in attention and processing sensitivity. The study used brain vital signs to track changes in brain function over time, providing a predictive relationship between head impact exposure and cognitive impairment.

SourceHealthTech Connex Inc.·JournalBrain Communications·DateFeb 23, 2022

Colon cancer screening can erase disparities in outcomes

A regionwide, structured colorectal cancer screening program eliminated disparities in colorectal cancer death rates between Black and white Kaiser Permanente members. Organized screening outreach markedly increased screening rates and led to significant decreases in incidence and death rates.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2022

CDI lab discovers novel mechanism of immune ‘memory,’ with vaccine implications

Scientists at Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation have discovered a novel mechanism of immune 'memory' that could improve vaccine effectiveness. The Tcf1 transcription factor plays a crucial role in recognizing threats the immune system has faced before, and researchers believe it may be possible to enhance this imm...

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalNature Immunology·DateFeb 23, 2022

Digging deeper into cannabis research

LaTrice Montgomery, a University of Cincinnati researcher, emphasizes the need for more specific data on cannabis use among different racial and ethnic groups. Her research focuses on cannabis addiction, also known as cannabis use disorder (CUD), which is listed in industry standard handbooks alongside other stimulants.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalCurrent Addiction Reports·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 23, 2022

Public engagement benefits scientists: lessons from the initiative to bring science programs to the incarcerated

A survey of incarcerated individuals and scientists participating in the INSPIRE program found significant benefits for scientists, including increased interest in taking action on social justice. The experience also produced counterstereotypical effects, shifting negative preconceived notions into empathy.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 23, 2022

Brazilian babies born with Zika virus syndrome at greater risk of death in first three years of life than those born without

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that babies born with Congenital Zika Syndrome are at an 11x greater risk of dying during their first three years of life compared to those born without. The study highlights the importance of protecting women, especially those pregnant or of child-bearing age, against ...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2022

Analysis highlights role of Chile's feminist movement in push for social and political progress

A new analysis examines how Chile's feminist movement evolved in response to the country's enduring inequality, particularly gender inequality. The study highlights the movement's impact on mass protests and the writing of a new constitution, with key findings including increased feminist participation and intersectional perspectives.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalSocial Inclusion·DateFeb 23, 2022

Researchers identify a promising drug for treating serious COVID-19 complication in children

Researchers have identified larazotide acetate as a promising treatment for multi-inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but severe condition. The study showed rapid improvement in symptoms and faster resolution of gastrointestinal issues among children treated with the drug, suggesting its potential as an adjuvant therapy.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCritical Care Explorations·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 23, 2022

Perovskites used to make efficient artificial retina

KAUST researchers develop an artificial electronic retina that mimics human vision and recognizes handwritten numbers with high accuracy. The retina uses perovskite nanocrystals to detect light intensity via capacitive change, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to existing systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2022

Colorfully detecting stressed-out polymer films, gels before they break (video)

A team of researchers has designed a compound with 'wings' that makes polymers change color when stressed, allowing for the detection of stress before breakage. The new probe is more accurate in detecting mechanical stresses in both polymer gels and films, paving the way for tougher gel materials and nanoscale tension probes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 23, 2022

Black heart disease: Two elevated biomarkers distinguish Blacks with resistant hypertension from Whites

Researchers found elevated plasma xanthine oxidase activity and more fragments of damaged mitochondrial DNA in Black adults with resistant hypertension compared to white adults. These findings suggest an important underlying cause of increased cardiovascular risk in Blacks with difficult-to-treat hypertension.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalHypertension·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

Study shows impact of school closures on preschool children during Covid-19

A recent study published in Child Development found that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted preschool children's educational development, particularly in motor, language, and logical-mathematical skills. The research highlights the importance of targeted interventions for vulnerable children to mitigate the achievement gap.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 23, 2022