Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 9, 2022


Baycrest-led audiology study finds that screening memory clinic patients for hearing loss helps in physicians’ management of important risk factor for dementia

A Baycrest-led study found that point-of-care screening for hearing loss in memory clinic patients increased physicians' awareness and led to more frequent referrals for hearing help. The study demonstrated the feasibility and value of hearing screening for older adults at risk for dementia.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

The miracle of mucins

New research from University of Utah biomedical engineer Jessica Kramer reveals that human mucus and saliva may prevent the spread of coronaviruses when dry on a surface. Mucins in mucus form a barrier around live virus, preventing infection by binding to sugars on viruses instead of cells.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Backward over forward: eccentric cycling offers more benefits and requires less effort than concentric cycling

A study by Dr. Ryoichi Ema found that eccentric cycling has higher neuromuscular activation of the rectus femoris muscle and can be performed with less effort. This suggests that eccentric cycling exercise is beneficial for improving athletic performance and preventing muscle damage.

SourceShizuoka Sangyo University - Iwata Campus·JournalJournal of Electromyography and Kinesiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

Treatment length reduced for children with tuberculosis

Researchers found that four-month treatment is as effective as six months in non-severe TB cases, allowing for savings on screening and training healthcare workers. The study's results led to a change in the World Health Organisation's global guidelines, recommending a shorter treatment course for children with non-severe TB.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 9, 2022

New paper offers innovative solution for thermal energy storage

Researchers have developed a novel approach to improve thermal energy storage by decoupling energy density and power density using pressure-enhanced close contact melting. This method has demonstrated efficacy in achieving high power and energy density, making it suitable for demanding applications like electric vehicles and data centers.

Overcoming resistance to breast cancer treatment

A team from UNIGE has identified a potential target for restoring the efficacy of standard breast cancer treatment. The loss of SPRED2 protein leads to tumor proliferation even with tamoxifen treatment. Combining tamoxifen with an inhibitor of estrogen-independent cell activation may be promising for resistant patients.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCancers·TypeNews article·DateMar 9, 2022

COVID-19: Tannic acid targets key stages in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 infection

Researchers found that tannic acid targets the RBD protein and enzymes involved in viral entry and replication, suggesting its potential as a preventative or therapeutic agent. The polyphenol's low toxicity and anti-inflammatory properties make it an attractive alternative to existing antivirals.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateMar 9, 2022

Novel radioligand therapy proven superior for metastatic prostate cancer patients

A novel radioligand therapy has been shown to increase progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients. Ninety-one percent of patients experienced a greater than 50% reduction in PSA values after treatment, with a median PFS of 22 months.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateMar 9, 2022

Researchers unravel the inner workings of heat conduction in galaxy clusters

A team of researchers used the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to create a laboratory replica of galaxy-cluster plasmas, discovering strong suppression of heat conduction in these turbulent environments. The experiments provide insight into complex physics processes and raise additional questions that may be answered in future studies.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

A text-reading robot with heart

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba created a handheld social robot, OMOY, that can appear to convey emotions by shifting an internal weight while reading out text messages. The robot was tested with 94 people and found to reduce negative emotions such as anger, revenge, and avoidance motivation.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·DateMar 9, 2022

New research from Pusan National University sheds light on nature of friction in multi-layered graphene

A study by researchers at Pusan National University has investigated the relationship between surface structures and nanoscale friction in multi-layered CVD graphene. They found that only the top-most layer of graphene was twisted with respect to the rest, affecting layer-dependent nanoscale friction.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Promoting transparency and sharing in transportation research - data and code disclosure and sharing policy of Communications in Transportation Research

Communications in Transportation Research enforces Data and Code Disclosure and Sharing Policy to ensure replicability and research resource sharing. Authors must provide necessary materials for reproducing published works, contributing to the community's rigor and transparency.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCommunications in Transportation Research·DateMar 9, 2022

Heatwave hotspots linked to urban agglomerations in Africa

Research in Africa identified heatwave hotspot regions linked to urban areas, affecting 36% of Northern Hemisphere and 57% of Southern Hemisphere populations in 2019. Climate change likely contributed to these hotspots, with significant implications for human health, energy consumption, and water security.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 9, 2022

Half century of protection pays off for sea turtles

Researchers have tracked green turtle populations at Aldabra Atoll and found a significant increase in clutches laid since the species was protected in 1968. The study reveals an overall 2.6% annual rise in clutch numbers, offering hope for marine conservation success stories.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEndangered Species Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

Anchoring strategy helps to set new record of efficient ideal bandgap perovskite solar cells

Researchers at Hefei Institutes of Physical Science reported a novel solution to tackle bimetallic traps in high-efficiency perovskite solar cells by applying an anchoring strategy. The strategy led to a record power conversion efficiency of 22.51% and improved open-circuit voltage, addressing a major issue in ideal bandgap perovskite ...

Women want to work, despite workforce precarity

A new study by Cornell University's Landon Schnabel found that women are now as likely as men to report working because they want to, not just out of necessity. The gender gap in preferring to work is closing, except for pockets of the most religiously active Americans.

SourceCornell University·JournalSociological Science·DateMar 9, 2022

Genetic mechanisms of coral metamorphosis identified

Researchers have identified key molecular mechanisms driving coral metamorphosis, a radical transformation from free-swimming larvae to sedentary adult reef-builders. Alterations in gene expression and receptor signaling regulate the irreversibility of this process, enabling corals to adapt to their environment.

SourceTohoku University·JournalZoological Letters·DateMar 9, 2022

Cerebral palsy rates are dropping in Australia

Research published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology shows a decline in cerebral palsy rates among Australian babies, with the largest decrease seen in premature births. The study found a 32% reduction in prevalence over two decades.

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateMar 9, 2022

Large mammals can help climate change mitigation and adaptation

A new study finds that large wild animals like elephants and whales can help restore ecosystems and battle climate change by dispersing seeds, clearing vegetation, and increasing albedo. Protecting these animals also supports local biodiversity and ecological resilience in temperate, tropical, and subtropical grassland ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 9, 2022

​​​​​​​Research sheds light on mysterious messenger RNA modifications

Scientists have discovered that mRNA modifications play a crucial role in the brain's reward learning process and transporting mRNAs to synapses. The study found that removing these modifications impaired flies' ability to learn essential survival skills, highlighting the importance of these modifications in animal function.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Does loneliness affect your memory?

A study by the University of Oslo found that feelings of loneliness were associated with memory decline in Swedish participants, but not German ones. However, this association was lost once dementia patients were excluded, suggesting a complex relationship between loneliness and cognitive decline.

SourceUniversity of Oslo, Department of Psychology, Center for Lifespan Changes in Brain and Cognition·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

Targeting dysregulated kappa-opioid receptors reduces working memory deficits in alcohol use disorder

A University of South Florida study suggests targeting kappa-opioid receptors may alleviate working memory deficits and improve executive function in individuals with severe alcohol use disorder. A compound blocking these receptors alleviated working memory deficits and restored normal executive function.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalAddiction Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Ribociclib added to endocrine therapy extends survival in postmenopausal patients with metastatic breast cancer

A randomized Phase III trial showed a significant overall survival benefit with ribociclib plus endocrine therapy for postmenopausal patients with HR+ and HER2- metastatic breast cancer. The median survival was 63.9 months, and the six-year survival rate was 44.2%, compared to 51.4 months and 32% for placebo.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 9, 2022

Sleep apnea accelerates aging, but treatment may reverse it

Researchers found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) accelerates the biological aging process and causes epigenetic age acceleration, leading to increased mortality risk. However, one year of CPAP treatment significantly slows down biological age acceleration in OSA patients, suggesting a potential reversal of age-related trends.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

Mothers’ exposure to air pollution associated with low-birth-weight babies

A recent study published in Environmental Research found a significant association between air pollution and low birth weight in Israel. The study, which analyzed data from over 380,000 births, revealed that mothers who were underweight or of lower socioeconomic status were more vulnerable to exposure to air pollution.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

Hugging a “breathing” cushion to ease anxiety

A new, touch-based device has been developed to ease anxiety in students by mechanically simulating breathing. The 'breathing' cushion was found to be equally effective at reducing anxiety as guided meditation in a study of 129 volunteers.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Frequent external childcare can affect children’s behavior

Research suggests that frequent external childcare can lead to behavioral issues in children, including aggression, ADHD symptoms, and anxiety. However, these problems typically disappear by the age of 13. The study also found no strong link between external childcare and substance use or delinquency in adolescents.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

People without jobs or secure housing have worse outcomes when treated for depression

A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry has found that individuals without jobs or stable housing experience worse depression symptoms when treated with therapy or antidepressants. The researchers analyzed data from nine studies involving over 4,800 participants and discovered that unemployed patients had 28% poorer outcomes compar...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

What factors help students with disabilities transition to college?

A qualitative study identified key factors helping students with disabilities transition to college, emphasizing the importance of self-determination and inclusive education. Teachers can infuse self-determination into their teaching methods, while institutions should promote a welcoming climate through restructuring programs and foste...

SourceWiley·JournalPsychology in the Schools·DateMar 9, 2022

Music combined with auditory beat stimulation may reduce anxiety for some

A new study found that music and auditory beat stimulation can significantly reduce state anxiety in people with moderate trait anxiety. The treatment was more effective than music alone or pink noise for reducing somatic anxiety, while music alone was more effective for reducing cognitive state anxiety.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 9, 2022

Study results may help improve firearm safety messaging to prevent suicides

A study published in Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior reveals subgroups of firearm owners in the United States who can be trusted to discuss safe storage. The study found that certain groups, such as those owning multiple firearms or shotguns and rifles, may require more individualized conversations about safe storage.

SourceWiley·JournalSuicide and Life-Threatening Behavior·DateMar 9, 2022

Working to revolutionize the way we live

University of Houston researchers have developed a pressure-quench process that enhances superconductivity in materials at room temperature, potentially revolutionizing electric power transmission. This breakthrough could lead to highly efficient electric power transmission systems with zero energy wasted.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Superconductivity and Novel Magnetism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

An obesity treatment for women only?

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have identified a potential way to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes in women by targeting a specific gene called KLF14. Increasing KLF14 abundance in fat cells may help alleviate metabolic abnormalities, including slower metabolic rates and less efficient triglyceride management.

COVID-19 & impact on informal caregivers’ mental health: Study

A recent study published in The Journals of Gerontology: Series B found that female informal caregivers who provide intensive care at home experienced higher levels of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those caring for a loved one within the home reported more depressive symptoms and anxiety compared to those caring ...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series B·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2022

Private investment in California’s solar energy industry increases climate vulnerabilities, study finds

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that private investments in California's solar energy industry increase climate vulnerabilities. Large-scale infrastructure needed to attract private investment makes the system more vulnerable to climate extremes, including heat waves and droughts.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironment and Planning E Nature and Space·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

Beheaded croc reveals ancient family secrets

The discovery of Hanyusuchus sinensis, an extinct crocodilian species, sheds light on the evolution of modern crocodilians and their role in ancient ecosystems. Human migration and hunting led to its extinction, which may have influenced ancient Chinese myths and characters.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

From quantum vibrations to nanodiamonds, unusual toolbox puts dangerous SARS-CoV-2 variants under surveillance—and may detect the most infectious

Scientists have developed an unusual toolbox using quantum physics and molecular mapping to monitor SARS-CoV-2's spike protein. The approach aims to improve diagnosis, variant risk assessment, and treatment by identifying hotspots in the genome where highly-infectious mutations emerge.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 9, 2022

Immunological signature against SARS-CoV-2

Scientists at LMU found that mild disease courses are characterized by strong antiviral upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes, preventing viral spread and lung infection. This 'specific immunological signature' is initially independent of antibodies and holds promise for modulating the immune system to activate these mechanisms.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 9, 2022

Reservists, especially those with combat exposure, are at risk for alcohol misuse after military deployment: Study

A study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that Army Guard soldiers who returned from deployment were at risk for heavy drinking. The rate of drinking among deployed Guard soldiers exceeded that of deployed military personnel, with combat exposure being a significant factor.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2022

Electronic pneumonia decision support helps reduce mortality by 38% in community hospitals

A real-time electronic decision support system helped reduce intensive care unit admissions, improve antibiotic use, and lower overall mortality rates for patients with pneumonia. The study found a 38% decrease in mortality among community hospital patients using the system.

SourceIntermountain Healthcare·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 9, 2022

Childhood trauma and genetics linked to increased obesity risk

A new study from the Healthy Nevada Project found associations between genetics, childhood trauma, and adult obesity. Participants with specific genetic traits and who experience childhood traumas are more likely to suffer from adult obesity. The study suggests that understanding the interplay between genes and environment can help pro...

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Improved maize yields in Tanzania

A study by McGill University researchers shows that tailored fertilizer recommendations based on on-site soil tests can significantly improve maize yields. The approach also helps farmers overcome financing constraints, increasing productivity and profits while minimizing environmental impact.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateMar 9, 2022

How a virus packages its genetic material

A UC Riverside-led team developed a theory and performed simulations to understand how viruses package their genetic material. The research reveals that capsid proteins are inclined to form shells around viral RNAs due to lower stress distribution, which can aid in designing nanocontainers for drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalACS Nano·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 9, 2022

Ants can “sniff out” cancer!

Scientists discovered that ants can differentiate healthy from cancerous human cells based on distinct smell signatures. The insects, trained to recognize volatile organic compounds, show high potential for cancer detection with lower costs and efficiency.

SourceCNRS·JournaliScience·DateMar 9, 2022

New analysis shows chronic lower extremity lymphedema has dramatic impact on physical function in large number of older female cancer survivors

A new study found that nearly one-third of older adult female survivors of colorectal, endometrial, and ovarian cancer experience quality-of-life-impacting challenges with physical activity due to chronic lower extremity lymphedema. The researchers urge the medical community to include regular lymphedema assessments in survivorship care.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

Global environmental risks from treated wastewater

A new global database reveals 1.2 million km of rivers at risk from treated wastewater discharge, with some exceeding environmental thresholds for concern. The research aims to identify hotspots and pinpoint individual treatment plants in need of improvement to mitigate water pollution risks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalEarth System Science Data·DateMar 9, 2022

Office buildings with infrequent water use may have poor water quality

A study published in PLOS Water found that office buildings with low-consumption plumbing may experience chemical and microbiological safety issues due to weekend stagnation. The research highlights the need for regular water testing in commercial buildings, even those designed as 'green' to reduce water consumption.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Water·TypeObservational study·DateMar 9, 2022

Even at best hospitals, low-income older cancer patients struggle after surgery

A new study found that dual-eligible patients for Medicare and Medicaid have poorer outcomes and higher costs after cancer surgery, even in high-quality hospitals. These patients are more likely to experience complications, longer hospital stays, and lower chances of going home instead of a nursing facility.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Surgery·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 9, 2022

Are pesticides used in urban and suburban areas harming honey bees?

A study published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry found that pesticide levels are low in nectar and pollen collected by honey bees in urban and suburban areas across the US. Chemical analyses detected 17 pesticides in nectar and 60 in pollen samples, with 73% of all samples containing no detectable pesticide residues.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateMar 9, 2022

Prof. Zhu Tong’s team reveals the association between short-term exposure to ultrafine particles (UFPs) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels increase

A panel study in Beijing found a consistent, robust increase in fasting blood glucose levels after exposure to ultrafine particles (UFPs). The research suggests potential biological pathways, including pro-opiomelanocortin processing and regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 A function.

SourcePeking University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateMar 9, 2022