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Science News for September 21, 2022


Researchers demonstrate chemically sensitive lidar method

Researchers have developed a chemically sensitive lidar method that can map and identify the composition of environments, augmenting human interactions and industrial processes. The new technique resolves chemical information by detecting sub-nanometer surface deformations due to photothermal absorption.

SourceOptica·DateSep 21, 2022

Chemical cocktail in skin summons disease-spreading mosquitoes

Researchers at University of California - Riverside discovered a chemical cocktail in human skin that summons disease-spreading mosquitoes. The combination of carbon dioxide plus two chemicals, 2-ketoglutaric and lactic acids, elicits a scent that attracts female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, vectors of Zika and other viruses.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

A consistent lack of sleep negatively impacts immune stem cells, increasing risk of inflammatory disorders and heart disease

A new study finds that consistently losing an hour and a half of sleep per night can negatively impact immune stem cells, leading to increased inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Even after catching up on sleep, the effects of disrupted sleep remain long-lasting.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

Electronic laboratory notebook for materials science: A lossless data management platform for machine learning and sharing of experimental information

Researchers developed an electronic laboratory notebook that uses knowledge graphs to describe material properties and experimental processes. The platform enables automated analysis, lossless sharing, and discovery of new materials with potential applications in energy-related devices.

SourceWaseda University·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Nightmares in middle age linked to dementia risk

Research at the University of Birmingham suggests that people who experience frequent bad dreams in middle age are more likely to be diagnosed with dementia later in life. The study found that middle-aged individuals with weekly nightmares were four times more likely to experience cognitive decline over a decade.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Severe COVID-19 caused by “senile” interferon response in older patients, researchers suggest

A team of researchers found that aged mice infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibited impaired type I interferon signaling and reduced levels of type II interferon IFN-γ, leading to increased susceptibility to severe disease. Treatment with IFN-γ protected these animals from severe illness.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

No evidence that dehorning black rhinos negatively impacts the species’ reproduction or survival, study finds

A study by the University of Bristol and Namibian Ministry found no statistically significant differences in population growth factors between dehorned and horned black rhinos. The research suggests that dehorning is not a hindrance to black rhino reproduction or survival, reassuring its use as an anti-poaching deterrent.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEuropean Journal of Wildlife Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

Same same but different

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to detect intraspecies genomic diversity, or microdiversity, of uncultivated bacteria. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of microbial ecology and evolution, as previously overlooked variations are now being studied.

SourceKyoto University·JournalmSystems·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

New guideline may help improve testing for penicillin allergies

A new guideline published in Clinical & Experimental Allergy aims to improve the testing process for penicillin allergies among patients. The guidelines provide recommendations on patient selection, risk stratification, and drug provocation testing, aiming to reduce errors and ensure accurate diagnosis.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·DateSep 21, 2022

SMART and NTU Singapore develop a quick test kit to determine a person’s immunity against COVID-19 and its variants

A team of scientists from SMART and NTU Singapore has developed a quick test kit that can determine a person's immunity against COVID-19 and its variants based on antibodies detected in a blood sample. The test kit, which requires just 10 minutes to show results, can be easily adapted for new variants of concern and other diseases.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 21, 2022

Patients experiencing virtual reality immersion during hand surgery required less anesthetic to keep pain at bay, indicating the potential of this non- pharmacologic distraction technique

Patients undergoing virtual reality immersion during hand surgery required significantly less anesthetic to manage pain, suggesting its potential as a non-pharmacologic distraction method. The study compared VR immersion to monitored anesthesia care and found no significant differences in post-operative pain or anxiety levels.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 21, 2022

Rooftop solar cells can be a boon for water conservation too

A study by Duke University researchers found that rooftop solar cells can save a significant amount of water, with households saving an average of 16,200 gallons per year. Converting to solar in homes reduces the use of grid electricity and therefore also the volume of water used.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

How old is that fingerprint?

Researchers have identified two new unique molecular trends in fingerprint oils that can help estimate the age of a fingerprint. The presence of epoxides and an increase in medium-length fatty acids were found to be indicative of fingerprint aging.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 21, 2022

Lenabasum, a cannabinoid receptor agonist, is an effective and safe treatment for amyopathic dermatomyositis

Lenabasum has been shown to improve skin symptoms in patients with amyopathic dermatomyositis, demonstrating significant reductions in inflammation and disease severity. The study's findings suggest that lenabasum is a well-tolerated treatment option for refractory skin disease.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 21, 2022

New research shows children exposed to natural disasters in the womb have higher rates of developmental psychopathology in a sex-specific manner

Researchers found that children prenatally exposed to Superstorm Sandy had substantially increased risks for depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorders. Male children had elevated risks for attention deficit and disruptive behavioral disorders, while female children had elevated risks for anxiety disorders.

SourceThe Graduate Center, CUNY·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

Hair finds new roots as urban farming growth medium

Researchers from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a sustainable hydroponic substrate using keratin extracted from human hair. The substrate has been tested with microgreens, leafy vegetables, and seedlings of Arabidopsis and bok choy, showing promising results in terms of water retention and nutrient delivery.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateSep 21, 2022

Scientists find evidence for food insecurity driving international conflict two thousand years ago

A new study reveals that declining agricultural yields due to climate change led to the rise of social shifts, militarization, and conflict in Palmyra around the middle of the third century. The research team used computer simulations to analyze ancient data, providing a new perspective on the city's history.

SourceAarhus University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 21, 2022

The super-fast MRI scan that could revolutionise heart failure diagnosis

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have developed a super-fast MRI scan that can diagnose patients with heart failure in record time. The new 4D heart MRI scan takes just eight minutes to produce detailed images of the heart valves and blood flow, helping doctors determine the best course of treatment.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEuropean Radiology Experimental·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

Artificial intelligence tools quickly detect signs of injection drug use in patients’ health records

Researchers developed an AI tool using natural language processing and machine learning to identify people who inject drugs in electronic health records. The model accurately identified PWIDs in 1,000 records from 2003-2014, significantly improving clinical decision making and resource allocation.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Heart attack risk increased among people with HIV and hepatitis C as they aged

Research found that people with HIV who also have untreated hepatitis C virus have a higher risk of heart attack as they age. The study analyzed health data from 23,361 people with HIV and found that those co-infected with hepatitis C had a significantly increased risk of heart attack compared to those with HIV alone.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 21, 2022

How does what we eat affect our healthspan and longevity? It’s a complex dynamic system

A recent study published in BMC Biology found that normal variation in dietary patterns affects the aging process. The researchers identified key patterns of specific nutrients associated with minimal biological aging, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to nutrition and aging. The findings suggest that balanced nutrient intak...

How white consumers helped drive discrimination by businesses

A new study from Ohio State University finds that white consumers' preferences played a significant role in driving discriminatory practices by private businesses against Black customers before the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The study analyzed data from the Negro Motorist Green Book and found that counties with more Confederate monument...

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

SMART and NTU Singapore develop a quick test kit to determine a person’s immunity against COVID-19 and its variants

A team of scientists from SMART and NTU Singapore has developed a rapid point-of-care test kit that measures antibodies against SARS-COV-2 and its variants, offering personalized vaccination strategies. The test kit requires just 10 minutes to show results and has up to 93% accuracy.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeNews article·DateSep 21, 2022

Now you don't have to wait for smoke to know where fires are likely to occur

A new model developed by US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service and the University of Montana forecasts which areas in the Great Basin have the highest probability of a large rangeland fire. The model combines measures of accumulated annual and perennial grass vegetation with recent weather and climate data.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalRangeland Ecology & Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Old genes keep sea anemones forever young

Researchers deciphered the diversity and evolution of nerve and gland cell types in sea anemones, revealing common progenitor populations and conserved regulatory mechanisms. The study highlights a remarkable ability of sea anemones to maintain neural balance throughout their lives.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 21, 2022

Study finds potentially dangerous levels of arsenic in California prison drinking water

A new study led by researchers at UC Berkeley found instances where arsenic levels exceeded regulatory limits for months or years at a time in the Kern Valley State Prison and nearby communities. Long-term exposure to arsenic has been linked to various health concerns, including cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

Rare human gene variant in ADHD, autism exposes fundamental sex differences

A new study reveals key differences in dopamine disposal machinery between male and female mice with a rare human genetic variant found in boys with ADHD or ASD. Females exhibit unique behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety and novelty recognition issues, while males display reduced social behavior and perseverative traits.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

Fertilizers cause more than 2% of global emissions

A study by the University of Exeter and Greenpeace Research Laboratories reveals that synthetic nitrogen fertilisers contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers estimate that the supply chain for these fertilisers is responsible for emitting the equivalent of 1.13 gigatonnes of CO₂ in 2018.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Teaching robots to be team players with nature

Researchers have developed a novel global-to-local design approach to compose heterogeneous swarms of robots, enabling them to achieve collective behavior. The system allows users to define target behaviors by changing the number and position of distribution's modes, enabling swarms to adapt autonomously.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Modelling study estimates the number of people living with Type 1 Diabetes is set to double by 2040

A new study estimates that up to 17.5 million people worldwide will live with Type 1 Diabetes by 2040, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries. The modeling study predicts a significant increase in global deaths due to T1D, highlighting the need for improved surveillance, diagnosis, and care.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 21, 2022

JDRF announces launch of global type 1 diabetes index

The T1D Index, a data simulation tool, measures the human and public health impact of type 1 diabetes globally. Simulations suggest over 3.86 million 'missing people' and 32 healthy years lost due to T1D, highlighting the need for interventions such as timely diagnosis, accessible care, and research funding.

SourceJDRF·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Does stress make it more difficult to become pregnant?

Research suggests that stress can affect a woman's probability of becoming pregnant within a menstrual cycle. Women with higher levels of chronic stress had lower fecundability rates compared to those with lower levels. The study found that women with an allostatic load score of 5-6 had a 59% reduction in fecundability.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateSep 21, 2022

EIP Pharma publishes translational data of preclinical and phase 2a results for Neflamapimod in dementia with Lewy bodies: Nature Communications

Neflamapimod, a p38α kinase inhibitor, demonstrates reversible neurodegeneration in animal models and improves clinical endpoints associated with cholinergic neuronal function in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies. The findings support the initiation of a confirmatory Phase 2b clinical trial for neflamapimod.

SourceLaVoieHealthScience·JournalNature Communications·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 21, 2022

Astronomers unveil new – and puzzling – features of mysterious fast radio bursts

A new study by an international team of scientists has discovered a complex, dynamically evolving, magnetized environment around a fast radio burst source. The findings challenge current understanding and suggest that the source may be located in a region without significant star-forming activity, defying expectations.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

New MIT Sloan research identifies which countries may be better positioned to accept a “new normal” of living with COVID-19

Researchers at MIT Sloan School of Management studied 93 countries and found more than half willing to tolerate higher death rates without NPIs. The US, however, may face high daily death rates exceeding 1,000 per day during winter months if past responsiveness continues.

SourceMIT Sloan School of Management·JournalSystem Dynamics Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 21, 2022

Study uncovers mechanism behind virus-induced heart inflammation, suggests potential therapeutic target

Researchers have identified two NLRP sensors, NLRP1 and CARD8, as key players in Coxsackievirus B3-induced heart inflammation. Targeting CARD8 may prevent CVB3 infections from progressing to heart failure. The study provides new insights into the inflammatory response triggered by this common viral cause of viral myocarditis.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2022

New endoscope uses bendable GRIN lens for 3D microscopy

Researchers have developed a flexible endoscopic imaging probe using a bendable graded index (GRIN) lens, enabling 3D microscopic imaging of tissue. The new technology could shorten biopsy waiting times to minutes and enable real-time monitoring of tissue changes.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateSep 21, 2022

Common gene variant linked to COVID mortality

A new study found that mice with the APOE4 gene variant were more likely to die from COVID-19, while those with APOE2 had increased virus replication and inflammation. The researchers also analyzed 13,000 patients in the UK Biobank and found that individuals with two copies of APOE4 or APOE2 were at higher risk of death from COVID-19.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateSep 21, 2022

Patient decision aids enhance informed consent for interventional radiology procedures

A prospective study found that patient decision aids improve patients' self-perceived understanding of image-guided procedures and satisfaction with the consent conversation. Patients who received a PDA before their visit reported significantly greater understanding and felt more listened to by their clinician.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Maternal education and household income at birth can increase a child’s chances of overweight and obesity at age 10, according to new research

A new international study found that maternal education levels and household income at birth are significant predictors of childhood overweight and obesity. Social inequalities were evident across seven high-income countries, with lower maternal education associated with higher risk of overweight and obesity.

SourceConcordia University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Myths busted: New studies show telemedicine is effective, doesn’t reduce access to care

Two new studies published in NEJM Catalyst demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness of telemedicine in addressing access barriers and improving health outcomes. The research highlights the benefits of telemedicine for patients with transportation challenges, mental health services, and overall quality of care.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNEJM Catalyst·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Do sleep timing and duration affect dementia risk?

A cohort study of Chinese older adults found that sleeping for more than 8 hours increases dementia risk by 69% and going to bed before 9 PM doubles the risk. The study suggests monitoring cognitive function in those with prolonged sleep timing.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 21, 2022

Looking at images of people smiling at you extends antidepressant effects of ketamine

A clinical trial found that using positive words and images during the window of heightened brain plasticity after a single ketamine treatment can help maintain depression relief for at least one month. Researchers developed an automated intervention to pair ketamine with computer-based training, showing promising initial findings.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 21, 2022

New study explains mechanisms of salt transport and could help treat cystic fibrosis

A recent study by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center researchers has shed light on the mechanisms of salt transport across membrane barriers. The findings have significant implications for treating cystic fibrosis, a disease caused by mutations in three types of sodium-potassium pumps.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 21, 2022

Killer cells get better with age

Research by Saarland University scientists reveals that killer T cells become more effective and powerful with age, making them a promising tool for cancer immunotherapy. The study's findings suggest that older patients' immune systems can produce more potent killer cells to fight off pathogens.

SourceSaarland University·JournalAging Cell·DateSep 21, 2022

Stain-resistant school uniforms could expose children to harmful chemicals

Millions of schoolchildren in the US and Canada are exposed to potentially harmful levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through stain-resistant school uniforms. The study found concentrations as high as those in outdoor clothing, posing health risks such as cancer and severe COVID-19 outcomes.

SourceIndiana University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022