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Science News for February 3, 2022


Study shows discrepancy in 'hookup culture' sexual activity on dates

A recent study from the University of Kansas found that college students' self-reported attitudes towards sex on dates do not match their actual behavior. When men initiated dates, sex was more restricted than when women asked for a date. In contrast, female-initiated dates saw genital contact occurring on 63% of occasions, while tradi...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSexuality & Culture·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

NRG oncology trial results indicate trametinib should represent the new standard of care for women with recurrent low-grade serous ovarian cancer

The NRG-GOG 0281/LOGS trial demonstrated that trametinib significantly reduces disease progression and improves response rates in women with recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary/peritoneum. The study found a trend towards higher overall survival rates when compared to standard of care options.

SourceNRG Oncology·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 3, 2022

People prefer interacting with female robots in hotels

A study by Washington State University researcher Soobin Seo found that people are more comfortable talking to female robots working in service roles in hotels. The preference is stronger when the robots are described as having more human features, with participants rating female robot interactions as more pleasant and satisfying.

SourceWashington State University·JournalInternational Journal of Hospitality Management·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

Immunotherapy with house dust mite extract reduces symptoms of atopic dermatitis

Researchers found sublingual immunotherapy with house dust mite extract to be effective in reducing signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis. The treatment, administered over 18 months, resulted in significant improvements in pruritus and lesions, with rare side effects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

An NICU quality-improvement program reduced death or severe brain bleeding in extremely premature infants

A comprehensive quality-improvement initiative in a NICU reduced death and severe brain bleeding in extremely preterm infants from 27.4% to 15%. The program introduced evidence-based practices, including electronic order sets, improved monitoring of blood carbon dioxide and pH levels, and standardized delivery room practices.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Physicists unify sociological theories that explain social stability

Researchers from the Complexity Science Hub Vienna propose that homophily, or interacting with like-minded individuals, automatically leads to social balance and stability. They demonstrate this using data from the Massive Multiplayer Online Game Pardus, where players tend to form friendships with those who share similar characteristics.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Origin of supermassive black hole flares identified: largest-ever simulations suggest flickering powered by magnetic ‘reconnection’

A new simulation suggests that energy released near a black hole's event horizon during magnetic field line reconnection powers the intense flares. The process involves interactions between the magnetic field and material falling into the black hole, releasing hot plasma particles that radiate away as photons.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

First U.S. peer-reviewed study on omicron patient outcomes reveals rapid spread and significant differences in infection behavior

The first US peer-reviewed study on omicron patient outcomes found significant differences in infection behavior. Ominron patients are significantly younger, have increased vaccine breakthrough rates, and are less likely to be hospitalized compared to patients with alpha or delta variants.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Love of nature is partially heritable, study of twins shows

A large-scale study of UK twins found that identical twins shared a greater affinity for nature and frequent visits to natural spaces compared to fraternal twins. Heritability estimates ranged from 46% for nature orientation to 34% for garden visits, suggesting a moderate genetic influence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study uncovers new features of genome organization

Researchers identified two classes of DNA elements: tethering and insulators, which work together to regulate gene expression. Tethering elements facilitate timely activation by bringing enhancers close to target genes, while insulators prevent interference between neighboring genetic loci.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

New research finds that having a care manager during pregnancy reduces likelihood of delivering a baby prematurely for individuals most at risk

A new study found that pregnant people on Medicaid who received intensive care management had lower preterm birth rates compared to those who did not. This initiative, known as Pregnancy Medical Home (PMH), provided comprehensive care from a team of professionals, including social and economic support.

Exploring the strategies of categorization

Researchers explored pigeons' categorization strategies using computer-generated stimuli and machine learning analysis. The study found that pigeons attach importance to specific characteristics of stimuli, leading to individualized categorization preferences.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAnimal Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

New study suggests automated, interactive video content could improve hand-washing practices to reduce healthcare-associated infections

A new study found that automated smart technology, including video engagement, can increase mean hand-washing duration and the number of users who achieve recommended 20 seconds of hand washing. However, researchers suggest that video content should be refreshed every 3 months to sustain engagement.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

February issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover new research on disparities in the opioid crisis, new practice guidelines for peer specialists and supervisors, more

The February issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services highlight new research on the opioid crisis, with a focus on improving treatment outcomes. Additionally, the latest issue of Focus features articles on novel neurotherapeutics and practice guidelines for peer specialists and supervisors.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 3, 2022

How to get chloride ions into the cell

A study led by Przemyslaw Nogly at PSI has detailed insight into the mechanism of a light-driven chloride pump in bacteria, revealing how light energy converts to kinetic energy and transports chloride ions inside cells. The pump uses two molecular gates to ensure one-way transport, with the process taking around 100 milliseconds.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Strong corporate inclusion and diversity practice can help bring along employees reticent about supporting transgender and non-binary (‘trans’) people

Research from the University of Bath finds that companies with strong diversity and inclusion climates can spur support for trans staff, even among those initially hesitant. The study emphasizes the importance of practical frameworks, leadership, and authentic allyship initiatives to create a more inclusive work environment.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalThe International Journal of Human Resource Management·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Earth’s water was around before Earth

Researchers found two gas reservoirs, one containing solar gas and the other with terrestrial water signature, in the earliest stages of our solar system. This discovery suggests that Earth's water was present before the accretion of its constituent blocks.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 3, 2022

Improving air quality associated with slower cognitive decline in women

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that reducing air pollution exposure can slow cognitive decline in older women, with benefits seen across various demographics. The research followed 2,232 women for up to 20 years, revealing a significant association between improved air quality and reduced cognitive decline.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

“Inflaming” cold tumors

Scientists at Technical University of Munich discovered a promising combination therapy for mesenchymal PDAC subtype, showing improved T-cell infiltration and cell cycle arrest when using nintedanib with trametinib. The treatment significantly improves the response of highly aggressive mesenchymal PDAC subtypes in mice.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study predicts that routine immunisation with the first typhoid conjugate vaccine (TCV) could avert 46-74% of typhoid fever cases

A mathematical modeling study predicts that routine immunization with TCV could avert 46-74% of all typhoid fever cases in 73 countries. Vaccination is also expected to reduce the relative prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant typhoid by 16%, preventing millions of cases and deaths.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

Increase in home delivery service usage during COVID-19 pandemic unlikely to last

Research at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute finds that over 90% of people who use online delivery services would likely revert back to their original way of shopping. Delivery service users access products in four categories: groceries, food, home goods, and other items, with grocery deliveries having the highest proportion of new ado...

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

Treasure in tree rings: Using untapped tree ring data to calculate carbon sequestration

A new research synthesis suggests using tree ring data from forest inventory plots to estimate carbon sequestration in forests. This approach could provide a direct record of the carbon gained by individual trees and forests, scaling up to estimate forest-wide and continent-wide carbon savings.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalBioScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Ten hospitals reduced opioid prescriptions for children who underwent appendectomy through a quality improvement initiative

A quality improvement initiative at 10 US children's hospitals has led to an almost 80% reduction in opioid prescribing for children after appendectomy, without harming patient outcomes. The study used a standardized prescribing protocol and ACS NSQIP Pediatric data to minimize opioid prescriptions.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 3, 2022

As the volume of social sciences journal articles increases, academic book publication is slowing

A study by Academic Analytics Research Center found a significant increase in journal article publications (64%) and decrease in book publications (34-54%) across 12 Social Sciences disciplines from 2010 to 2020. This shift may impact library acquisitions strategies and affect humanities-related fields.

SourceAcademic Analytics Research Center (AARC)·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Scientists test promising biosensor aimed for use in brain

Researchers developed a waterproof biosensor that can accurately detect changes in potassium and sodium ion levels important in TBI. The chip features electronic components that produce an electrical signal when sensing chemicals, and the team successfully tested it in artificial cerebrospinal fluid and human blood serum.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Untangling mixed (neural) signals

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered how 'polyglot' neurons encode and decode sensorimotor chatter, enabling the differentiation between motor and sensory signals. This breakthrough has vital applications in brain-computer interfaces and neuroprosthetics, where accurate decoding is crucial.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 3, 2022

Aromatase inhibitors are better than tamoxifen at reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence in premenopausal as well as postmenopausal women

A new study published in The Lancet Oncology found that aromatase inhibitors are more effective than tamoxifen at reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Aromatase inhibitors were shown to be particularly beneficial for younger women, reducing the risk of recurrence by 30%.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

NYUAD study offers new insights about urban traffic management

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have published a comprehensive review of 50 fundamental traffic models using an extensive data set of 2.3 billion vehicle observations from 25 cities worldwide. The study found that a non-parametric model outperformed other traffic flow models, regardless of road type and congestion level.

SourceNew York University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateFeb 3, 2022

Tracking SARS-CoV-2 during Tokyo 2020 via wastewater

A team of researchers used wastewater-based epidemiology to detect SARS-CoV-2 in more areas of the Olympic village than clinical testing indicated. The study found that daily screenings missed asymptomatic and post-quarantine patients, highlighting the need for alternative methods.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Little test, big impact: dipstick screening for hematuria

Researchers in Japan evaluated the cost-effectiveness of adding dipstick hematuria screening to a mass health check-up program. The study found that including routine testing for hematuria would promote early detection and treatment, leading to cost savings and improved patient outcomes. This cost-effective approach has the potential t...

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalClinical and Experimental Nephrology·DateFeb 3, 2022

UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center scientists identify germline signature that predicts side effects from anti-PD1/PDL1 checkpoint therapy

Researchers have identified a germline biomarker signature that can predict serious side effects in up to 3 in 10 patients undergoing anti-PD1/PDL1 therapy. The findings represent an important step toward personalizing checkpoint therapy, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing harm.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

For the uninsured, crowdfunding provides little help in paying for health care and deepens inequities

A new study found that crowdfunding has limited success in helping people pay their medical bills, particularly in low-income and under-insured communities. Despite raising over $650 million annually, 33.8% of campaigns remain unfunded, highlighting the need for better health insurance coverage and social assistance programs.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Missing the bar: how people misinterpret data in bar graphs

Researchers at Wellesley College found that people frequently misinterpret bar graphs, with one in five graph readers categorically misunderstanding averages. The 'bar-tip limit error' occurs when viewers interpret the tip of the bar as the outer limit of the data, despite the average being the balanced center point.

SourceWellesley College·JournalJournal of Vision·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Precious metal commodities can enhance investment portfolio performance, say Pusan National University researchers

A study published in Applied Economics analyzed the relationship between precious metal commodities and equity markets, revealing that gold and aluminum are the most desirable metals for investment. The research also found that copper and zinc have the largest spillovers on global equity indices.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Economics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 3, 2022

Switch to dry powder inhaler more than halves carbon footprint of asthma treatment

A study found that switching from a metered dose inhaler to a dry powder version for maintenance therapy reduces the carbon footprint of people with asthma by more than half. The researchers conclude that this substitution is an acceptable and worthwhile option for most patients who can safely manage their condition at home.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThorax·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

Study indicates link between food insecurity and higher infant mortality rates in North Carolina

A new study by Wake Forest School of Medicine found a significant link between food insecurity and higher infant mortality rates in North Carolina. The study analyzed health data from all 100 counties in the state, finding that infants in North Carolina had a 36% higher mortality rate compared to national averages.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·DateFeb 3, 2022

Dose-finding trial paves way for new rotavirus vaccine to prevent a deadly diarrheal disease from birth

A phase 2 clinical trial found that the Australian-developed neonatal rotavirus vaccine RV3-BB was safe and produced a robust immune response in African babies. The reduced dose of the vaccine generated an equivalent immune response as the highest dose, offering opportunities to reduce vaccine manufacturing costs.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 3, 2022

OSU study finds high levels of depression, anxiety among disabled people during COVID-19 pandemic

A new study from Oregon State University found that people with disabilities have been experiencing high levels of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social isolation was a major predictor for both conditions, exacerbated by limited access to healthcare, including delayed or canceled medical appointments.

SourceOregon State University·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 3, 2022

Poor sleep and stress exacerbate each other among nurses who work night shift, OSU study finds

A recent study by Oregon State University found that night shift nurses are more likely to suffer from poor sleep, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and inflammation. The researchers also discovered a significant disparity in sleep quality among Black nurses, highlighting the impact of systemic racism on their health.

SourceOregon State University·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Lonely teenagers at greater risk of poor educational outcomes

A new study from King's College London found that lonely teenagers are at a greater risk of poor educational outcomes and negative mental health issues. Participants who experienced loneliness during early adolescence were more likely to finish school with lower grades and experience problems such as depression and anxiety by age 18.

SourceKing's College London·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Rosalind Franklin University researchers identify new therapeutic for cystic fibrosis

Researchers at Rosalind Franklin University have identified a new therapeutic approach for treating cystic fibrosis. The treatment uses antisense oligonucleotides to restore CFTR function by removing stop mutations. This strategy has shown promise in treating CF patients with class I mutations and similar types of mutations.

SourceRosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

A sponge playing in defense

A team of scientists at the University of Würzburg has identified a previously unknown RNA sponge, OppX, that mimics a key regulator of bacterial membrane permeability. The discovery sheds light on how bacteria evade antibiotics and could lead to the development of new therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022

Marshall University researchers explore use of robotic arm technology in revision total knee arthroplasty

Researchers at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine have successfully applied robotic arm technology to revision total knee arthroplasty, achieving well-aligned components and excellent range of motion in patients. The study utilizes computer-assisted technology to improve component positioning and reduce the burden...

Matthew Jones wins NSF CAREER Award

Matthew Jones, a Rice University chemist, has won a National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award to investigate the fundamental processes of nanoparticle formation. He aims to develop a mechanistic understanding of nanoparticle growth to control their size and shape, enabling advances in biomedicine, energy storage, and computing.

Kessler Foundation scientists explore evidence for improving outcomes for prism adaptation therapy in stroke survivors

Researchers analyzed fMRI studies on healthy individuals and stroke survivors to understand the neural mechanisms underlying prism adaptation therapy. The study found differences in brain activity patterns between healthy individuals and those with spatial neglect, suggesting a shift in spatial processing to the left hemisphere.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalBrain Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Humans and other primates have evolved less sensitive noses

A study found that humans have evolved less sensitive noses compared to other primates, with genetic variations affecting scent perception. Researchers screened the genomes of over 1,000 Han Chinese people and an ethnically diverse population to identify novel genetic variants associated with odor detection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2022