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Science News for June 17, 2022


More digging needed to see whether bones of fallen Waterloo soldiers were sold as fertilizer, as few human remains have ever been found

A new study suggests that the bones of fallen Battle of Waterloo soldiers were likely sold as fertilizer due to the scarcity of human remains found on the battlefield. The research, published in the Journal of Conflict Archaeology, is based on original data and visitor accounts from the time period.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Conflict Archaeology·DateJun 17, 2022

Math model predicts efficacy of drug treatments for heart attacks

Researchers at Ohio State University created a mathematical model that assesses the efficacy of immunomodulatory drugs in treating myocardial infarctions. The study found that certain combinations of these drug inhibitors were more efficient at reducing inflammation, offering new possibilities for improving patient outcomes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 17, 2022

Accuracy of diagnostic mammograms may vary across racial and ethnic groups

A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that diagnostic mammogram accuracy differed across racial and ethnic groups. Asian/Pacific Islander women were more likely to receive false-positive reports, while non-Hispanic Black women were more likely to receive false-negative reports.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·DateJun 17, 2022

New research delves into the contributors to obesity-related health disparities

This supplement explores the complex contributors to obesity and obesity-related health disparities, highlighting the role of social determinants, behavioral factors, and biological influences. Researchers propose strategies for improving population wellbeing and inform healthcare and public policy approaches.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 17, 2022

Rethinking the rabies vaccine

Scientists have discovered a new, high-resolution view of the rabies virus glycoprotein, which could lead to more effective vaccines. The study's findings suggest that a better-shaped vaccine could provide lifelong protection against the deadly disease.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2022

Exciting light emission and measuring temperature with ultrasound

Researchers at Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena create a material that can emit visible or invisible light in response to ultrasound, also providing feedback on local temperature. This innovation could enable new applications in medicine, such as photodynamic therapy, and other areas where targeted light and heat are required.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2022

Training virtually can reduce psychosocial stress and anxiety

Researchers from Tohoku University found that virtual training can decrease psychosocial stress response and lower anxiety levels, comparable to real exercise. The study used immersive virtual reality to simulate physical activity, inducing physiological changes and cognitive benefits in young healthy subjects.

SourceTohoku University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 17, 2022

Citizens are more supportive of climate action after COVID-19, but more pessimistic in their expectations

A recent study by ICTA-UAB researchers found that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a shift in public expectations, with many citizens becoming more pessimistic about future climate action. However, some respondents expressed positive views on the impact of COVID-19 on consumption habits and environmental awareness.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateJun 17, 2022

When it comes to ADHD and ASD, the eyes could reveal all

New research from University of South Australia and Flinders University uses retina recordings to identify distinct signals for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), providing a potential biomarker for each condition. Children with ADHD showed higher overall energy, while those with ASD sho...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2022

New research to help address blood shortages in Ireland

A study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has identified barriers and motivators to blood donation for people from ethnic minority groups in Ireland. Factors that motivate people from minority ethnic backgrounds to give blood include religious reasons and a desire to help others in their own communities.

SourceRCSI·DateJun 17, 2022

PrEP stigma still high among men who have sex with men

A study found that despite PrEP's effectiveness in reducing HIV risk by 99%, many male couples underestimate its benefits and experience high levels of stigma. Joint education for male couples may improve PrEP adoption rates, and providing information to both partners can facilitate open discussions and concerns about the medication.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateJun 17, 2022

ACMG releases update to secondary findings gene list; SF v3.1 adds five genes, including one with variant linked to heart failure in underrepresented populations

The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics has released an updated recommended minimum gene list for the reporting of secondary findings. The update adds five new genes, four associated with dilated cardiomyopathy predisposition and one with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis, a cause of heart failure. The new list aims to...

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 17, 2022

HKUST researchers discover 'hotspots' of three-layered alternatively rotating circulation in South China Sea

A research team led by Prof. Gan Jianping found a three-layered structure in the SCS rotating circulation with 'hotspots' of intensified currents along steep continental slopes. This discovery clarifies previous misunderstandings of water mass motion and demonstrates the first-ever 3D simulation and visualization system for ocean circu...

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2022

How holographic interferometry could influence the future

Researchers have discovered a new application of holographic interferometry, enabling the measurement of real-time vibrations on reflective surfaces. This technique has significant implications for industries such as aviation, where it can help prevent engine failure and improve overall efficiency.

Why vaccination against malaria quickly loses its protective effect

A study found that malaria vaccines elicit a weak and limited immune response against the naturally occurring Plasmodium falciparum pathogen, resulting in short-lived protection. The researchers suggest that inducing a broader spectrum of T helper cells could generate longer-lasting immunity.

SourceGerman Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ)·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2022

Scientists at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and 23andMe find genetic link to people’s ability to move to a musical beat

Scientists have discovered a significant genetic link to humans' ability to move in sync with music. The study identified 69 genetic variants related to beat synchronization and found connections between rhythm and health, while acknowledging that environment also plays a crucial role.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJun 17, 2022

Study finds that accurate diagnostic mammography outcomes vary by racial and ethnic groups

A multi-institutional study found that diagnostic mammography outcomes vary across racial and ethnic groups, with higher accuracy in non-Hispanic white women and lower accuracy in Hispanic women. The study suggests that imaging facility and concurrent use of breast ultrasound or MRI may contribute to some disparities.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalCancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 17, 2022