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Science News for January 7, 2022


New: COVAX results

A registry study found that people with inflammatory RMDs, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, tolerate their COVID vaccine well, with short-lived reactions being the most common side effect. The majority of participants were able to continue on their normal medication with no changes.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJan 7, 2022

JNM publishes appropriate use criteria for prostate-specific membrane antigen pet imaging

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has published appropriate use criteria (AUC) for prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET imaging. The guidelines provide a framework for healthcare providers to determine the most effective use of PSMA PET scans in patients with suspected or known prostate cancer.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 7, 2022

Eccentric exoplanet discovered

A sub-Neptune exoplanet named TOI-2257 b has been found to have an eccentric orbit around its host star, making it a candidate for further study. The planet's distance from the star allows for liquid water and potentially life-supporting conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateJan 7, 2022

N95 respirators can be safely decontaminated up to 25 times, research shows

A new study from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that N95 respirators can maintain their function and effectiveness through 25 cycles of re-use using vaporized hydrogen peroxide. The study expands on previous findings, showing a relatively safe method for reprocessing personal protective equipment in future epidemics.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJan 7, 2022

Success in efficient fabrication of high-performance neodymium magnets using machine learning

Researchers at NIMS successfully fabricated high-performance neodymium magnets using machine learning, optimizing processing conditions with limited experimental data. By leveraging active learning and Bayesian optimization, they were able to achieve better magnetic properties than conventional sintered magnets.

Biotechnology could provide an environmentally more sustainable alternative to egg white protein production

Researchers at the University of Helsinki and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed a biotechnology-based solution to produce ovalbumin, a key protein in egg white powder. The fungus-produced ovalbumin reduces greenhouse gas emissions and land use by up to 72% compared to traditional chicken-based production.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Food·DateJan 7, 2022

Study: Re-enrolling and completing a bachelor's degree has positive effect on annual income

A Kansas State University study found that re-enrolling and completing a bachelor's degree results in an immediate increase in annual income of $4,294, with an additional income growth of $1,121 per year. This suggests that colleges and universities can improve economic outcomes for students by providing support to help them re-enroll ...

SourceKansas State University·JournalEconomics of Education Review·DateJan 7, 2022

Integrated photonics for quantum technologies

Researchers outline potential and challenges of integrated photonic circuits for quantum technologies, highlighting need for investment in education and infrastructure. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of current state and future applications of integrated photonics for quantum technologies.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalNature Reviews Physics·DateJan 7, 2022

Differing cybersickness when playing or watching a virtual reality game

A study found that cybersickness decreases when playing a virtual reality game compared to passive watching, suggesting eye movement patterns play a key role in its occurrence. The researchers suggest developing methods to detect and mitigate cybersickness to enhance the sense of presence in VR experiences.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeCase study·DateJan 7, 2022

Making object invisible under fluid flow

Researchers develop simplified version of large-scale invisibility cloak using fluid dynamics, controlling fluid flow speed and direction. The technique uses varying fluid channel thickness to conceal obstacles, restoring original streamline paths.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 7, 2022

Tangled messages: Tracing neural circuits to chemotherapy's 'constellation of side effects'

A new study by Georgia Tech researchers has found a novel pathway for understanding why debilitating side effects occur with cancer treatment. The findings suggest that the central nervous system is vulnerable to cancer treatment's adverse effects, and correcting any one may not be enough to improve human function and quality of life.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 2022

Life in the "dead" heart of Australia

A team of Australian and international scientists has discovered a valuable new fossil site in New South Wales, containing exceptional examples of fossils from the Miocene epoch. The site, named McGraths Flat, provides insights into the history of the Australian continent and its ecosystems.

SourceAustralian Museum·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 7, 2022

COVID-19 patients in ICUs: study reveals an increased risk of invasive fungal secondary infections

A recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that COVID-19 patients in ICUs have a high risk of developing invasive fungal secondary infections. In fact, the MYCOVID study revealed that 22% of intubated and mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients in ICUs had proven or probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and...

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 7, 2022