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Science News for April 3, 2020


The Lancet Public Health: US modelling study estimates impact of school closures for COVID-19 on US health-care workforce and associated mortality

A new modelling study published in The Lancet Public Health finds that school closures to reduce COVID-19 transmission may lead to increased childcare needs among healthcare workers, potentially compromising the system's response. Researchers estimate that up to 15% of health-care workers may need additional childcare, with certain occ...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateApr 3, 2020

Unsustainable food systems: Can we reverse current trends?

A new study found that only international trade has a net positive effect on global food systems sustainability, while population growth, urbanization, and lifestyle change have negative impacts. The study suggests that policymakers need better tools to measure and monitor food system dynamics to make them more sustainable.

Anterior insula activation restores prosocial behavior in animal model of opioid addiction

Researchers at Arizona State University found that activating the anterior insula restored prosocial behaviors in animals with opioid addiction, a potential breakthrough in treating social behavioral deficits. The study used chemogenetic methods to selectively activate the brain region involved in both prosocial and addictive behaviors.

SourceArizona State University·JournalSocial Neuroscience·DateApr 3, 2020

Study of rare genetic disorder that effects the eyes

A retrospective observational study of ophthalmologists' experiences with familial amyloid polyneuropathies (FAP) reveals the challenges of treating this rare disease, particularly in maintaining eyesight despite liver transplants. The study aims to share knowledge and best practices with other researchers and doctors worldwide.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 3, 2020

A combined optical transmitter and receiver

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a tiny unit that can both transmit and receive optical signals using perovskite diodes. This innovation has the potential to simplify and shrink optoelectronic systems, particularly in applications requiring low weight, flexibility, or large surfaces.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Electronics·DateApr 3, 2020

Using sponges to wipe out cancer

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have discovered a natural product, manzamine A, that exhibits anti-cancer properties in cervical cancer cells. The compound stops cell growth and causes some cells to die, with potential applications for treatment and development.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateApr 3, 2020

Dilemma of COVID-19, aging and cardiovascular disease

A recent study explores the dilemma of COVID-19, aging, and cardiovascular disease, examining the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers in patients with coronavirus disease 2019. The findings highlight the need for careful consideration of treatment options in this vulnerable population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2020

Extreme rainfall days in metropolitan São Paulo have risen four-fold in seven decades

The study found that extreme rainfall days have increased significantly in metropolitan São Paulo, with a four-fold rise over the past seven decades. The researchers also observed an increase in consecutive dry days, suggesting that heavy rainfall events are becoming more concentrated in shorter periods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2020

Passport to improved health for military veterans

A universal health passport scheme has been shown to improve the mental health of military veterans by providing a sense of control and continuity of care. The VUP pilot project reduced anxiety and gave participants a single document to access various services, promoting feelings of pride and identity.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Military Health·DateApr 3, 2020

New study identifies characteristics of patients with fatal COVID-19

Researchers identified common characteristics of COVID-19 patients who died in Wuhan, China, including high mortality rates among males over 50 with chronic diseases. The study found that respiratory failure, shock, and cardiac arrhythmia were leading causes of death, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 3, 2020

New UTA study finds people tune out facts and trust their guts in medical emergencies

A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that people tend to rely on personal anecdotes rather than facts during medical emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This bias can lead to irrational decision-making and a lack of fact-based decision-making when individuals feel vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateApr 3, 2020

New measurements reveal evidence of elusive particles in a newly-discovered superconductor

Researchers at the University of Illinois have used high-resolution microscopy tools to study an unusual type of superconductor, uranium ditelluride (UTe2). The measurements reveal strong evidence for the presence of exotic Majorana particles on its surface, which could provide insights into fundamental physics and quantum computing.

Plant root hairs key to reducing soil erosion

Researchers found that plant root hairs significantly reduce soil erosion by binding soil particles and increasing soil cohesion. The study suggests that root hairs may release materials that reinforce soil or enhance its properties, providing new insights into soil conservation.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCommunications Biology·DateApr 3, 2020

Changes to drylands with future climate change

Future climate change will cause drylands to expand at an accelerated rate, but their average productivity is expected to decline. The study found that while total global productivity may increase by 12%, individual dryland areas will experience decreased productivity due to changes in precipitation and temperatures.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2020