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Science News for February 7, 2022


Discovery of 29 new acne risk genes provides hope for new treatments

A recent study has identified 29 new genetic variants associated with acne, providing potential new targets for treatment and helping clinicians identify individuals at high risk of severe disease. The research, involving over 20,000 individuals with acne, also found a link between genetic risk and disease severity.

SourceNIHR Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ and King’s College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Who is that? Kids find it more difficult than adults to recognize faces behind masks

A new study found that children's face-perception abilities are impaired when wearing masks, with a 20% impairment rate compared to adults' 15%. This disruption can affect social interactions and relationships. Researchers highlight the need for future studies on the impact of mask-wearing on children's educational performance.

SourceYork University·JournalCognitive Research Principles and Implications·DateFeb 7, 2022

Where mental health help is scarce, telehealth makes a big difference

A randomized study of over 1,000 people with PTSD and/or bipolar disorder shows that telehealth and integrated care models can improve treatment engagement and outcomes. Patients who received guidance from local clinic team members and in-person follow-up with nurses or social workers had better results.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022

Kinks, skinks and supersymmetry

Researchers have designed an experimental protocol to detect the dynamics of kinks and skinks, which are energy lumps and their supersymmetric partners. The study focuses on a one-dimensional lattice, but the findings may inspire more elaborate simulators in higher dimensions.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 7, 2022

Pusan National University scientists enhance durability of lithium-sulfur batteries with dyes

Researchers developed a novel coating material based on methylene blue dye to mitigate the polysulfide shuttling effect in lithium-sulfur batteries, improving their durability and electrochemical performance. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of sustainable energy storage systems.

SourcePusan National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Speeding through nanowire

Researchers discovered that applying tension to nanowires significantly enhances electron mobility, allowing for faster transistor switching and lower energy requirements. The core-shell nanowires demonstrated a 30% increase in electron speed compared to strain-free or bulk gallium arsenide.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Brain stimulation rapidly improves cognitive deficits in long-COVID

Non-invasive brain microcurrent stimulation therapy significantly improves cognition and reverses visual field loss in two patients with long-COVID, reducing vascular dysregulation. Cognitive impairments such as fatigue and short-term memory loss are reversed within three to four days.

SourceIOS Press·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 7, 2022

International land use scientists urge policymakers to adopt new approaches to addressing climate change, biodiversity and other global crises

A new study identifies key facts about global land use, highlighting opportunities for a more sustainable and equitable approach. The study's findings emphasize the need for policymakers to consider trade-offs between competing benefits and prioritize value judgments when making land use decisions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 7, 2022

New fossil reveals origin of arthropod breathing system

A new fossil discovery at the Chengjiang Fossil Site has provided a crucial link in understanding how arthropods evolved specialized limbs for breathing. The 520-million-year-old Erratus sperare organism has revealed the origins of biramous limbs, found in modern water-dwelling arthropods.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

COVID-19 infections increase risk of heart conditions up to a year later

A recent study found that COVID-19 infections can lead to serious cardiovascular complications, including heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease, even among previously healthy individuals. The risk of these complications remains high for up to a year after infection, highlighting the importance of post-infection care.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

Rice team’s mask strategy passes muster

The Rice team created an easily manufactured adhesive silicone harness that improves the fit of light surgical masks, making them comparable to N95 and KN95 masks in terms of aerosol droplet stopping. The revised design includes a wider harness along the nose slope for better sealing.

SourceRice University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

The ‘silent epidemic’: Study reveals impact of loneliness among older American women during the pandemic

A study of over 27,400 Women's Health Initiative participants found that loneliness increased among women aged 70+ during the pandemic, leading to worsening mental health. The 'silent epidemic' also showed a decline in social connections and increased isolation among women of color.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

'Bionic' pacemaker reverses heart failure

A new 'bionic' pacemaker is being developed to restore the natural variability of the heartbeat, which has been found to improve cardiac output by 20%. This innovation could revolutionize the treatment of heart failure in New Zealand patients.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalBasic Research in Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022

No time to exercise? What about THREE SECONDS a day?

A recent study from Edith Cowan University found that even brief periods of weightlifting, such as three seconds a day, can increase muscle strength. The research involved 39 healthy university students performing isometric, concentric, or eccentric bicep curls for three seconds daily over four weeks.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022

Beyond sci-fi: manipulating liquid metals without contact

Scientists have successfully manipulated liquid metals in a non-contact manner by applying electromagnetic induction, allowing for the creation of unique shapes and structures. The discovery opens up new possibilities for advanced manufacturing and dynamic electronic structures.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Poor sleep can triple risk for heart disease

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that combining aspects of poor sleep health increases the risk of heart disease. Researchers analyzed data from 6,820 U.S. adults and found a strong association between sleep health problems and heart disease risk, with Black participants showing higher rates of both.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

In world-first, Tel Aviv University researchers engineer human spinal cord implants for treating paralysis

Researchers from Tel Aviv University have engineered 3D human spinal cord tissues and implanted them in lab models with long-term chronic paralysis, resulting in an 80% success rate in restoring walking abilities. The team aims to conduct clinical trials in human patients within a few years to make the treatment commercially available.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 7, 2022

Culinary medicine education program shows positive outcomes for low-income patients with diabetes

A culinary medicine curriculum significantly improved biometric and diet-related behavioral outcomes among low-income patients with type 2 diabetes. Participants showed reduced glycosylated hemoglobin levels and increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, suggesting a positive impact on diabetes management.

Fear of predators in free-living wildlife reduces population growth over generations

A new study by University of Western Ontario researchers finds that fear of predators can reduce prey population growth rates over generations. The study, led by Professor Liana Zanette, demonstrates for the first time in any free-living wild animal that fear itself can halve populations in a short period.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2022

Maternity health care workers expressed anguish, questioned roles early in pandemic

A survey of Michigan healthcare providers found increased anguish and fear due to COVID-19, with implications for mental health and worker retention. The study identified five major themes: provider health, patient care impact, burdens of personal protective equipment, decreased support during labor, and ethical challenges.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Perinatal Pediatric and Neonatal Nursing·DateFeb 7, 2022

Osterweil receives funding for project aimed at enabling invisible security and privacy for resilient human-centric cybersecurity systems

Eric Osterweil, George Mason University Assistant Professor, receives $40,000 funding to develop an adaptive encryption platform and threat intelligence information sharing system. The project aims to enable usable cryptographic protections for email transactions and establish a foundation for future cybersecurity efforts.

Europe’s most valuable marine species “reduced to a fraction” of their current population size by 2100

Over one quarter of Europe's 20 most highly-fished marine species will face extreme pressure by 2100 if no action is taken to address climate change, overfishing, and mercury pollution. The study projects a significant decline in population size for key species like great Atlantic scallop, red mullet, and common octopus.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

Self-healing ice

Researchers from the University of Amsterdam have found that ice can heal itself by forming a new layer of ice to cover scratches and cuts. This discovery could potentially extend breaks between skating races, but careful control of moisture in the air is still necessary.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry·DateFeb 7, 2022

Study finds survivors of weather-related disasters may have accelerated aging

A study published by Arizona State University found that survivors of Hurricane Maria experienced accelerated aging in their immune systems, with molecular changes indicating a 7-8 year acceleration in human lifespan. The research used rhesus macaques as a model to explore the effects of extreme weather events on biological aging.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Do emotions impact decisions on punishment in the context of crime?

A Canadian research team found that individuals making punishment decisions experience an almost instantaneous emotional reaction, which is stronger when responding to stereotypical criminals. This discovery has implications for policy makers and highlights the importance of considering emotions in decision-making processes.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalPsychology Crime and Law·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

HKU Electrical and Electronic Engineering researchers make MRI technology accessible to large populations worldwide

HKU Electrical and Electronic Engineering researchers have successfully developed a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology that can operate from a standard AC wall power outlet, removing the need for radiofrequency shielding. The ultralow field (ULF) 0.055 Tesla brain MRI scanner is estimated to be only a fraction of the cost ...

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2022

How Mars lost its oceans

Researchers recreated conditions expected in Mars' core billions of years ago and found that molten metal gave rise to a brief magnetic field. This led to the evaporation of water vapor and eventual loss of Martian oceans about 4 billion years ago.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Spinal anesthesia no better than general anesthesia for hip fracture patients: Study

A major study has found that spinal anesthesia is not safer or more effective than general anesthesia in patients undergoing surgery for hip fractures. The study, involving 1,600 patients, showed similar outcomes and risks between the two types of anesthesia, contradicting accepted wisdom.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022

Computer predicted life saving benefit of Baricitinib for ventilated COVID patients

A recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that baricitinib significantly reduced all-cause mortality in critically ill COVID patients on mechanical ventilation. The drug showed a 62% lower mortality rate compared to placebo, with one additional life saved for every six people treated with baricitinib.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022

Many firearm buyers and sellers do not comply with assault weapons bans

A new study from the University of California San Diego's Rady School of Management found that the 2016 Massachusetts Assault Weapons Ban Enforcement Notice resulted in a 560% increase in assault rifle sales within five days, but compliance remained low. The research suggests that stricter enforcement is needed to gain full compliance ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Empirical Legal Studies·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

International land use scientists urge policymakers to adopt new approaches to addressing climate change, biodiversity and other global crises

A new report identifies 10 key facts about global land use, highlighting opportunities for a more sustainable and equitable approach. The study emphasizes the need for policymakers to consider trade-offs and marginalized groups' rights in developing effective solutions.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2022

Research lays a foundation for prevention of the most common childhood cancer

Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Cancer Research Center in Spain have discovered a potential strategy to prevent B-ALL, the most common childhood cancer, using the drug ruxolitinib. By blocking IL-7 signaling, researchers were able to significantly reduce the risk of leukemia development in genetically predis...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 7, 2022

Discovery of natural compounds that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 main protease through virtual screening

A study identified eleven natural compounds that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 main protease, a key player in viral replication and transcription. The virtual screening approach used to discover these compounds has implications for the development of new antiviral therapeutics.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalJournal of Chemical Information and Modeling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 7, 2022

New calculations of worldwide glacial flows and volumes

Researchers have created the first global map of flow velocities for 98% of the world's glaciers using satellite images. The study found that Himalayan glaciers hold a third more water than previously estimated, while tropical Andean glaciers may be up to 23% smaller.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 7, 2022

Hybrid machine-learning approach gives a hand to prosthetic-limb gesture accuracy

Researchers developed a hybrid machine-learning approach combining CNN and LSTM to recognize complex hand gestures in prosthetic hands. The technique achieved far superior performance than traditional machine learning efforts, with an accuracy of over 80%, but struggled with certain pinching gestures.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalCyborg and Bionic Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

New benchmark could improve detection of genetic variants linked to spinal muscular atrophy, other diseases

A new DNA benchmark, developed by NIST and collaborators, enables more accurate detection of genetic variants linked to diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy. The benchmark, based on HiFi sequencing technology, helps labs and clinics sequence genes with high accuracy, critical for disease diagnosis and treatment.

Wastewater monitoring for public health

Researchers from UC Davis successfully monitored wastewater for COVID-19, supporting student return to campus and community insights. The approach offers early warning of infection and cost-effectiveness but also has limitations due to high transmission rates and resource requirements.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 7, 2022

Saturn’s high-altitude winds generate an extraordinary aurorae, study finds

Researchers at the University of Leicester have discovered a new mechanism driving Saturn's massive aurorae, which are fueled by swirling winds in its upper atmosphere. This discovery answers one of NASA's Cassini mission mysteries and highlights the complex interactions between atmospheric weather and aurora creation.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

The Congo tropical forest is simply different

The Congo Basin's tropical forest is a unique greenhouse gas emitter, with low nitrous oxide emissions but high methane releases, particularly in swamp forests. Soils play a crucial role in converting nitrous oxide to harmless nitrogen, affecting the forest's overall climate gas balance.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Suicidal thoughts can help identify teens with a variety of treatable psychosocial problems

A new study finds that adolescents with frequent suicidal thoughts are at risk for a range of psychological and social issues, including depression, anxiety, attention disorders, and more. Pediatricians can use screening tools to identify teens who need help, regardless of whether they will attempt suicide.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Stanford engineers create catalyst that can turn carbon dioxide into gasoline 1,000 times more efficiently

Researchers at Stanford University have created a new catalyst that can convert carbon dioxide into gasoline up to 1,000 times more efficiently than existing standards. The breakthrough allows for the production of long-chain hydrocarbons, making it easier to handle and store, with potential applications in a carbon-neutral cycle.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Self-​motivation helped pro­fes­sional mu­si­cians main­tain their prac­tice dur­ing the COVID-​19 pan­demic

A study found that self-motivated musicians were more resilient to pandemic threats and maintained their practicing routines, while externally motivated musicians experienced a reduction in dedicated practice time. The research suggests that professional support can help musicians develop coping strategies and redirect focus towards in...

SourceUniversity of the Arts Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

Researchers discover repair properties of a protein critical for wound-healing in gut diseases

A team led by Case Western Reserve University discovered the novel repair properties of Gasdermin B protein, promoting restoration of epithelial layers and effective wound-healing. The findings have significant implications for designing therapeutics to enhance wound repair in various organs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateFeb 7, 2022

Slight increased risk of congenital abnormalities in infants exposed to opioid medications in utero

A large study analyzed administrative health data from Ontario and found a low risk of major anomalies with tramadol and morphine, minor anomalies with codeine, hydromorphone, and oxycodone exposure. The study highlights the need to consider both the benefits and harms of opioid treatment during pregnancy.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 7, 2022

Biologists isolated the coronavirus nucleoprotein in its pure form to improve the accuracy and sensitivity of the antibody tests

Biologists isolated the SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein in its pure form to create more accurate antibody tests. The new approach significantly improves sensitivity, increasing the ability to detect antibodies to the nucleoprotein. This breakthrough helps determine if vaccinated individuals have been infected with COVID-19.

Vaccine protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection wanes quickly but is better maintained against severe disease

A nationwide study in Sweden found that vaccine-induced protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection decreases over time, with most protection lost within seven months. However, protection against severe COVID-19 remains relatively stable, suggesting that booster shots may be necessary to maintain effectiveness.

SourceUmea University·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

International land use scientists urge policymakers to adopt new approaches to addressing climate change, biodiversity and other global crises

A new report identifies ten key facts about global land use and details opportunities for a more sustainable and equitable approach. The study emphasizes the importance of considering trade-offs and acknowledging the rights of marginalized groups in policymaking.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2022

PSU study challenges idea that college degree is still the great equalizer

A Portland State University study suggests that rising tuition and debt burdens limit higher education's power to reduce socioeconomic disparities. College graduates from lower-income families are more likely to hold large educational debt, which can negatively impact their financial investment and savings.

SourcePortland State University·JournalSocius Sociological Research for a Dynamic World·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

Managing pain after knee, shoulder surgeries without opioids

Researchers at Mayo Clinic developed a non-opioid pain management approach that provides equivalent or better pain control and patient satisfaction compared to traditional opioid regimens. This approach eliminates opioids after common sports surgeries, such as knee and shoulder procedures.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalArthroscopy The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery·DateFeb 7, 2022

Jet stream models help inform US offshore wind development

A new study from Cornell University provides detailed models characterizing the frequency, intensity, and height of low-level jet streams over the U.S. Atlantic coastal zone. The research finds that low-level jets can occur up to 12% of the time in the late spring and early summer, potentially impacting wind turbine performance.

SourceCornell University·JournalEnergies·DateFeb 7, 2022

A yet unknown neural mechanism of habit formation identified

A study by the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience has identified a new neural mechanism of habit formation, showing that striatal dopamine signals are region-specific and temporally stable across action-sequence habit formation. This finding challenges traditional theories on dopamine signaling in habit development.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Columns designed from nanographenes

Scientists from University of Würzburg create custom-made nanographene with cavities to hold smaller PAHs, forming two- and three-layer complexes in solution. They also isolate pairs as solids, leading to promising results for solar cells

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Smartphone reminders can improve memory for older adults with dementia

A recent study found that using personal assistant applications on smartphones can significantly improve memory in older adults with dementia. The researchers trained participants to use the technology to receive reminders about daily events and activities, resulting in improved memory performance.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 7, 2022

Marijuana vaping among youth who use e-cigarettes

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics has estimated that a significant proportion of e-cigarette users among youth ages 12 to 24 are also vaping cannabis. The study found an association between cannabis vaping and increased risk of mental health issues, highlighting the need for further research and prevention efforts.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateFeb 7, 2022

New “vertical map” of airborne microorganisms indicates how global warming will impact global ecosystems

A comprehensive 'vertical map' of airborne microorganisms has been created, showing that temperature is the single most important factor influencing their composition. As global temperatures rise, this could lead to significant changes in the air microbiome, affecting human health and food security.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2022

Quantum errors made more tolerable

Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully implemented a novel measurement scheme for finite-energy states, extending the coherence time of a trapped ion quantum oscillator by a factor of three. This breakthrough addresses a major challenge in quantum computing and brings us closer to enabling fault-tolerant quantum computers.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

The frogs of Baja California

Researchers found chytrid infections were more common and intense at higher elevations, with the California red-legged frog being among the most infected. The disease was also more prevalent in Baja California, where 68% of surveyed animals had the fungus, compared to 15% in Southern California.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateFeb 7, 2022

Biomedical research leader

Melinda Duncan has been appointed associate vice president for research and director of the Delaware IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence. She aims to expand the state's biomedical workforce and infrastructure to improve healthcare in Delaware.

University of Limerick, Ireland study finds young carers have ‘higher depressive symptoms’ than youths not providing care

A University of Limerick study has found that young carers exhibit higher levels of depressive symptoms compared to their peers without caregiving responsibilities. However, increased social participation is associated with improved life satisfaction and reduced depressive symptoms among young carers.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalInternational Journal of Adolescence and Youth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022