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Science News for December 17, 2019


Teen overdoses from anxiety drug rising

A national study found a significant rise in teens taking and overdosing on benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed anxiety medications. The rate of exposure among adolescents increased by 54% between 2000 and 2015, with nearly half of all reported exposures documented as intentional abuse or misuse.

SourceRutgers University·JournalClinical Toxicology·DateDec 17, 2019

How cells get moving

A research team has identified essential proteins for archaeal motility and its structure, revealing a complex protein complex that enables archaella to swim. The discovery provides insights into the unique mechanism of archaeal movement, distinct from bacterial flagellum-based locomotion.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Microbiology·DateDec 17, 2019

Taking an X-ray of an atomic bond

Researchers have developed a new technique to study electron behavior in atomic bonds using resonant x-ray reflectivity. This method allows for the measurement of individual elements' contributions to their shared bond, providing insights into the degree of covalent and ionic bonding.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 17, 2019

How immune cells switch to attack mode

Macrophages change their metabolism drastically after coming into contact with bacteria, triggering an inflammatory response. This process involves the activation of Toll-like receptors, which leads to histone acetylation and changes in gene expression.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalImmunity·DateDec 17, 2019

Study finds Chinese plant biodiversity at risk due to human activity: Narrow-ranged losers, widespread winners

A study published in PNAS found that humans are driving the loss of biodiversity among narrow-ranged plant species in China, while widespread species are thriving. The research revealed that human impact factors lead to a negative correlation with narrow-ranged species and a positive correlation with widespread species.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2019

Study: US takes 'low road' to growth with adverse impact on wellbeing, future prosperity

A new study published in the Cambridge Journal of Economics finds that countries taking the 'low road' to growth, like the US, experience adverse effects on wellbeing and future prosperity. In contrast, Scandinavian countries that take the 'high road' by investing in social reproduction see positive effects on human welfare.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalCambridge Journal of Economics·DateDec 17, 2019

Protein injections in medicine

Researchers have successfully replaced bacterial toxins with proteins in nano-syringes, enabling targeted delivery of drugs to specific body cells. The innovation aims to introduce drugs into cancer cells with minimal side effects.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 17, 2019

There is no 'I' in team -- or is there?

A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that individual psychological ownership boosts personal engagement and creativity, but decreases collective effort. Conversely, collective ownership enhances team engagement, but not necessarily individual performance.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology·DateDec 17, 2019

Differentiating amino acids

Researchers from the University of Freiburg and US universities have developed a method to differentiate between individual amino acids in short peptides. They used an aerolysin nanopore to measure the ion current through the pore, enabling the sensitive measurement of peptide size and structure.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 17, 2019

Social determinants of health are linked to gun homicide rates

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that social determinants of health, such as income inequality and trust in institutions, are associated with higher gun homicide rates in the US. The study also showed that levels of social mobility and poverty are linked to neighborhood gun homicide rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 17, 2019

And then there was light

Phytochromes can sense light intensity, duration, color, and day length by measuring the proportions of their inactive and active forms. Researchers have overcome a major hurdle to defining the transition between these states, allowing for atomic-resolution molecular movies of the process.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2019

Applying physics principle yields grim prediction on hurricane destruction in an era

A physicist has developed a new model predicting the increased destructive power of hurricanes as water temperatures rise. The model is based on a physics principle and suggests that the destructive power of Atlantic hurricanes off Africa could reach three times their current level if water temperatures increase by 2 degrees Celsius.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalTheoretical and Applied Climatology·DateDec 17, 2019

Poor sight causes people to overstep the mark

Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that people with impaired vision lifted their lead foot higher but less quickly over obstacles, increasing their risk of falls. This pronounced gait also led to increased anxiety and decreased stability, highlighting the need for better vision correction and care.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

High-def mapping of moisture in the soil

A new approach developed by University of Delaware researchers uses machine learning to predict soil moisture conditions in smaller areas with greater detail than standard models. This improves regional and global analysis while providing more accurate predictions even without existing data.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 17, 2019

Suction cups that don't fall off

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered how aquatic larvae of net-winged midges create super-strong suction organs, enabling them to move around on rocks in turbulent water. This study aims to inspire the development of bio-inspired suction cups with improved industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBMC Zoology·DateDec 17, 2019

'Locally grown' broccoli looks, tastes better to consumers

Consumers rated locally grown New York broccoli as better-looking and tasting than a California variety, even though it didn't look more appealing. The study suggests that labeling products as local can improve their perceived value and quality, regardless of actual differences in taste or appearance.

SourceCornell University·JournalAgricultural and Resource Economics Review·DateDec 17, 2019

Brain waves in mice change based on memory age

A team at RIKEN Center for Brain Science analyzed mouse brain activity using machine-learning algorithms, identifying distinct brain waves for recent and remote memories. They found a strong link between the frontal brain region and hippocampus, suggesting a possible mechanism to track memory age.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

In breakthrough method of creating solar material, NREL scientists prove the impossible really isn't

Researchers at NREL successfully integrated aluminum into their HVPE reactor and demonstrated the growth of semiconductors aluminum indium phosphide (AlInP) and aluminum gallium indium phosphide (AlGaInP). This breakthrough could lead to cheaper solar cells with comparable efficiency to MOVPE-grown ones.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateDec 17, 2019

Sinuses bothering you? Use those nasal sprays regularly

A recent study found that consistent use of nasal saline and corticosteroid sprays can significantly reduce the need for antibiotics and oral steroids in individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This reduction can lead to fewer side effects associated with these medications, such as gastric issues and mood disturbances. By using ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateDec 17, 2019

Special issue of Educational Researcher examines the nature and consequences of null findings

A newly released special issue examines the prevalence of null findings in randomized control trials, highlighting their expected and valuable role in evaluation research. Key articles propose frameworks for defining and interpreting null results, exploring context and implementation fidelity as factors influencing outcomes.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateDec 17, 2019

Scientists reveal the neural basis of confirmation bias

Researchers at Virginia Tech and University College London discovered a key brain region that drives confirmation bias, where activity modulates decision-making and memory. The study found that people tend to favor information reinforcing their existing opinions over contradictory ones.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 17, 2019

Here's a bitter pill to swallow: Artificial sweeteners may be doing more harm than good

A recent review suggests that artificial sweeteners, commonly used to aid weight loss, may actually contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and weight gain. According to UniSA Professor Peter Clifton, consuming large quantities of artificial sweeteners can alter gut bacteria and lead to increased calorie intake.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalCurrent Atherosclerosis Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

First study on human-grade dog food says whole, fresh food is highly digestible

A recent study from the University of Illinois discovered that human-grade dog foods are not only highly palatable but also more digestible than initially estimated. The researchers tested six commercial dog foods made with minimally processed human-edible ingredients, finding high protein quality and low stool volume in dogs.

Solving a combinatorial quandary

Lehigh University professor Brian Chen is developing software that can predict protein interactions, reducing the need for human interpretation. The software has already successfully demonstrated the ability to predict something completely unknown in a collaboration with Rutgers University.

First US study shows strong results for procedure to treat knee pain from OA

A new US study demonstrates the effectiveness of genicular artery embolization (GAE) in treating osteoarthritis knee pain. The minimally invasive procedure blocks blood flow to certain parts of the knee, providing rapid relief from pain and disability. Results show significant improvement in pain scores, with nearly all patients experi...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateDec 17, 2019

Novel genetic signature that can predict some kinds of breast cancer is identified

Researchers have identified a genetic signature associated with the degree of pathological angiogenesis in breast cancer tumors. The study combined gene expression profiles from public databases with analysis of retinopathy models to uncover key genes involved in pathological angiogenesis, providing a new tool for breast cancer treatment.

Limiting global warming would relieve populations from wet and dry extremes in China

A study published in Science Bulletin finds that limiting global warming to 1.5°C would reduce precipitation extremes in China, particularly in southeastern regions. The research highlights the social impacts of climate change, with heavy rainfall events intensifying across the country and dry extremes increasing in South China.

New metrics needed to evaluate and combat HIV epidemics in the US

A commentary published in the American Journal of Public Health argues that existing metrics are insufficient to track the public health response to HIV in the US. Newer metrics are needed to inform and evaluate efforts aimed at reducing new HIV infections by 75% and 90% over the next five and ten years, respectively.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 17, 2019

Consider marine life when implementing offshore renewable power

Researchers warn of potential negative impacts of offshore renewable energy on marine life, including head trauma and hearing loss. The study suggests that consideration should be given to the impact of technologies like wind turbines and wave energy converters on marine animals before implementation.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 17, 2019

Good aerobic fitness doesn't protect children against type 2 diabetes, staying active does

Good aerobic fitness is not linked to lower risk of insulin resistance in obese children. Instead, more physical activity and less sedentary time were associated with reduced insulin resistance regardless of body fat percentage. The study suggests that more physical activity plays a key role in preventing type 2 diabetes in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateDec 17, 2019