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Science News Archive June 2022 - Page 26


Page 26 of 40

Unravelling the diversity of the wild house mouse

Scientists have analyzed whole genome sequences of 98 wild house mice from across Europe and Asia, revealing a greater genetic diversity than previously thought. The study confirms three primary subspecies and infers the population history, with strong evidence for interbreeding between subspecies in East, Southeast, and South Asia.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Energy harvesting to power the Internet of Things

A new study uses finite element simulation to optimize energy harvesting from vibrating micromagnets for wireless sensor networks in the Internet of Things. The research aims to provide a sustainable micro-energy source for the ubiquitous sensors, reducing the need for battery replacements or recharging.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateJun 13, 2022

Study: Text messaging shows promise in reaching unvaccinated patients

A study found that automated text messaging was comparable to direct phone calls in getting unvaccinated patients to seek COVID-19 shots, with higher response rates among Black patients and those with lower incomes. The study suggests using text messaging as a low-cost alternative to traditional patient outreach.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 13, 2022

Twin photons from unequal sources

Scientists have produced identical photons originating from different sources, a crucial step towards applications like quantum computing and secure communication. The researchers achieved this by using precise electric fields to tune the energy levels of quantum dots, resulting in 93% identical photons.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 13, 2022

COVID-19 pandemic stress impacts ovulation

Research presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting found that COVID-19 pandemic stress led to disturbed ovulation in many women. Nearly two-thirds of participants experienced short luteal phases or anovulation, indicating a significant impact on reproductive health.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJun 12, 2022

Virtual CT scans cut patient radiation exposure in half during PET/CT studies

Researchers developed an artificial intelligence method to generate high-quality 'PET/CT' images, reducing radiation exposure and allowing for more frequent imaging. This innovation has the potential to provide more accurate assessment of disease progression and treatment efficacy, ultimately improving patient care.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 12, 2022

“Merlin” serves as a gatekeeper in new blood vessel formation

Researchers at Institute for Basic Science discovered Merlin's crucial role in regulating angiogenesis. By suppressing VEGFR2 internalization, Merlin prevents tip EC induction and promotes balanced sprouting angiogenesis. This study sheds light on the importance of Merlin in maintaining capillary integrity and proper angiogenesis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2022

UCalgary researchers discover molecule in the nervous system that may hold key to treating chronic pain

Researchers at University of Calgary have identified a molecule in the nervous system that enhances sensitivity to pain, potentially treating chronic pain with existing anti-cancer drugs. The discovery could offer an alternative to opioid-based pain medication, which can lead to tolerance and addiction.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2022

COVID-19 vaccination appears to be safe for patients treated for hypothyroidism

A new study presented at ENDO 2022 found that inactivated and mRNA COVID-19 vaccines do not cause significant fluctuations in thyroid function or increase the risk of emergency department visits among patients treated for hypothyroidism. The research suggests that these vaccines can be a safe option for this vulnerable population.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJun 11, 2022

Probiotic bacteria may enhance tamoxifen effectiveness in treatment of ER+ breast cancer

A new study suggests that probiotic bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus, may enhance the effectiveness of tamoxifen and other endocrine-targeted therapies in reducing ER+ breast cancer risk. The researchers found elevated levels of Lactobacillus in breast tissue of mice treated with tamoxifen, leading to decreased breast tumor formation.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJun 11, 2022

Testosterone improves quality of life, sexual function, and delayed verbal recall in men with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes

A randomized controlled trial shows significant improvements in testosterone replacement therapy for men with poorly-controlled type 2 diabetes and hypogonadism. The treatment improved symptoms, libido, and quality of life, as well as delayed verbal recall, a potential early sign of dementia.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJun 11, 2022

Male contraceptive pills show promise in new study

Two experimental male contraceptive pills, DMAU and 11β-MNTDC, have shown promising results in lowering testosterone levels without unacceptable side effects. The study found that 75% of men who took the active drug were willing to use it in the future, compared to 46.4% of those taking a placebo.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJun 11, 2022