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Science News for January 21, 2020


Influenza vaccination of children cuts hospitalization in half: Ben-Gurion U. researchers

A new study published in Clinical Infectious Disease found that fully vaccinating children reduced the risk of hospitalization for influenza complications by 54%. The research, led by Dr. Hannah Segaloff and Prof. Mark Katz, validated guidelines recommending two vaccine doses for children under 8 who have never been vaccinated or recei...

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 21, 2020

To reverse engineer dynamics of microbial communities, researchers construct their own

Researchers at the University of Illinois constructed synthetic microbial communities to study their dynamics and predict behavior. The study found that increasing variability in microbial interactions drives community structure, and that characterizing this variation can empower predictions of ecosystem succession.

Visits to pediatricians on the decline

Commercially insured children in the US see pediatricians less often, with primary care visits decreasing by 14% and problem-based visits declining by 24%. The trend may be driven by higher out-of-pocket costs and changes in healthcare behaviors, including increased use of telemedicine and urgent care.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 21, 2020

Let the europium shine brighter

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a stacked nanocarbon antenna that makes europium shine brighter than previous designs, with potential to create more efficient photosensitizers. The new design uses low-energy blue light absorption, reducing energy loss and enabling photodynamic therapy applications.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2020

Taming electrons with bacteria parts

Researchers created an artificial electron transfer system by modifying a protein from bacteria, which can be used to produce medicines and biofuels. The system works by guiding electrons through short 'pit stops' made of heme molecules, allowing for more efficient energy transfer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateJan 21, 2020

Insecticides are becoming more toxic to honey bees

Researchers found that neonicotinoid seed treatments have driven a significant increase in insecticide toxicity to honey bees, particularly oral-based toxic loads, which rose by 9-fold across the US. The study highlights the need for mitigation and conservation efforts in regions with high levels of insecticide use.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 21, 2020

Drug combo reverses arthritis in rats

A combination of two experimental drugs has reversed osteoarthritis in rats, with improved cartilage thickness and reduced cell death. The treatment may potentially translate to human use, offering a promising therapy for millions of adults affected by the disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProtein & Cell·DateJan 21, 2020

Zebrafish teach researchers more about atrial fibrillation

Researchers have found a possible link between a genetic variation and atrial fibrillation in zebrafish, suggesting a structural defect in the heart muscle and mitochondria. Early treatment with antioxidants may prevent the disorder in fish, but more research is needed to understand its human implications.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

A model ecosystem fish story

A study led by Michigan State University researchers found that a collective model created by over 200 anglers and fishing club members accurately predicted pike populations, habitat, and fishing pressure. The results show that involving diverse interest groups improves the accuracy of the solution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2020

Cybercrime: Internet erodes teenage impulse controls

A new study by Flinders University finds that teenagers' online impulsivity is a significant risk factor for cybercrime. The internet's blurring of social boundaries encourages thrill-seeking behavior, which can lead to digital piracy, pornography, and hacking. The researchers suggest that policy interventions should take into account ...

SourceFlinders University·JournalEuropean Journal of Criminology·DateJan 21, 2020

Women still face barriers to breastfeed at work

Despite federal guidelines in place, many working mothers struggle to access breastfeeding resources such as private rooms, lactation consultants, and breast pumps. Experts recommend employers designate a point person for breastfeeding support to improve work-life balance for new mothers.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalWorkplace Health & Safety·DateJan 21, 2020

Bend and snap: New interventions for rib fractures

A new multicenter study finds that stabilizing fractured and partially dislocated ribs through surgical stabilization improves patient outcomes, with reduced pain, increased comfort, and lower complication rates. Patients who underwent the procedure experienced better quality of life and fewer complications compared to those who did not.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateJan 21, 2020

How fruit flies flock together in orderly clusters

Researchers discovered that fruit flies use fly-fly interactions to establish regular spacing in clusters, driven by a balance between congregating and maintaining personal space. Depriving the flies of their senses results in abnormal responses and high failure rates in cluster formation.

SourceeLife·DateJan 21, 2020

Human-sparked fires smaller, less intense but more frequent with longer seasons

A CU Boulder-led study reveals human-sparked fires are becoming more frequent and occurring over longer seasons, presenting new challenges for U.S. wildfire managers and firefighters. The shift toward more human-caused fires results in decreased fire intensity and size, but may not be a good thing due to changes in ecosystem roles.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJan 21, 2020

Mosquitoes are drawn to flowers as much as people -- and now scientists know why

Researchers at the University of Washington found that mosquitoes are drawn to certain flowers like the blunt-leaf orchid due to a finely balanced bouquet of chemical compounds. The team discovered that combining specific chemicals stimulates the mosquito brain, drawing in mosquitoes as effectively as a real flower.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

A chronicle of giant straight-tusked elephants

Researchers have identified distinct species of giant straight-tusked elephants in Europe and Asia, with the Indian form featuring a robust skull crest. The study, published in Quaternary Science Reviews, reveals that these prehistoric giants went through six sets of teeth in their lifetimes.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateJan 21, 2020

Researchers identify a possible cause and treatment for inflammatory bowel disease

A recent study published in PNAS reveals that extracellular matrix protein-1 (ECM1) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. The researchers found that ECM1 is highly expressed in macrophages and regulates their polarization through the GM-CSF/STAT5 signaling pathway.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

Traumatic brain injury impairs hormone production, disrupting sleep, cognition, memory

Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have discovered that traumatic brain injuries can lead to a cascade of health issues, including fatigue, depression, and memory problems. Growth hormone replacement therapy has been shown to improve symptoms, but the mechanisms behind its effectiveness are still not fully understood.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·DateJan 21, 2020

Cultural difference play crucial role in when people would sacrifice one to save group

A new study found that people in Eastern countries are less likely to support sacrificing someone to save more lives, highlighting the importance of considering local ethics in AI development. The 'Trolley Dilemma' thought experiment showed a significant difference in willingness to sacrifice one person versus five.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

Mars' water was mineral-rich and salty

A new study suggests that Mars' ancient waters were characterized by high salinity and a neutral pH, creating an environment potentially suitable for microbial life. The research found evidence of hyposaline lakes on early Mars, which could have supported life forms similar to those found on Earth.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2020

Novel composite antimicrobial film could take a bite out of foodborne illnesses

A new composite film made with an antimicrobial layer has shown promise in reducing the growth of harmful bacteria on packaged meat and fish products. The film, which contains a biopolymer called pullulan and an antimicrobial compound called Lauric arginate, was found to be effective in killing pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.,

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateJan 21, 2020

Platypus on brink of extinction

A new study warns of the platypus's critically high risk of extinction, citing water resource development, land clearing, climate change, and severe drought as major threats. The researchers call for urgent national action to prevent the species from disappearing from Australian waterways.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 21, 2020

Select few cancer patients enroll in potentially life-extending clinical trials

Researchers found that only 0.1% of cancer patients were enrolled in clinical trials as their first course of therapy after diagnosis. White males with private health insurance and metastatic cancers are more likely to enroll, but the low enrollment rate is still troubling due to the potential for increased life expectancy.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateJan 21, 2020

Recent health reforms in Oregon reduce infant deaths, improve access for women's health

A recent study by Oregon State University researchers found that Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) in 2012 reduced infant mortality rates among Medicaid patients, particularly preterm births. The CCOs' integrated care model addressed social determinants of health, such as housing and transportation, to improve patient outcomes.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHealth Services Research·DateJan 21, 2020

The little auks that lived in the Pacific

A 700,000-year-old fossil bone found in Japan indicates that a close relative of the modern dovekie was once thriving in the Pacific Ocean. The discovery suggests that dovekies were more abundant in Japan and the Pacific than previously thought.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·DateJan 21, 2020

Designer-defect clamping of ferroelectric domain walls for more-stable nanoelectronics

Researchers at FLEET have made a significant step in solving the primary challenge of information stability in domain-wall nanoelectronic data storage. By introducing designer defects, they were able to clamp down domain walls, effectively preventing ferroelectric domain relaxation and promoting superior polarisation retention.

Doubts raised about effectiveness of HPV vaccines

A new analysis of HPV vaccine clinical trials raises doubts about their effectiveness, citing methodological problems and limited trial populations. The study found that the trials were not designed to detect cervical cancer, which takes decades to develop, and that vaccination may only prevent low-grade abnormal cell changes.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJan 21, 2020

Banning food waste: Lessons for rural America

A new study suggests that rural communities in Vermont are already managing their food waste effectively through composting and feeding scraps to pets or livestock. While support for banning food waste is high, only a minority of residents are willing to pay for curbside compost pickup programs.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Food Systems·DateJan 21, 2020

Maternal depression on rise in poor countries

A study by Flinders University found rising levels of reported antenatal depression in low and middle-income countries. Antenatal depression is associated with increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, highlighting the need for more services, particularly in low-income economies.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 21, 2020

New glaucoma test to help prevent blindness

Researchers have identified 107 genes that increase a person's risk of developing glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness globally. The new test uses genetic information from tens of thousands of people worldwide to accurately predict glaucoma risk using a single blood or saliva sample.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 21, 2020

Sustainable markets must be created and defended

A conceptual framework has been developed to analyze the creation and shaping of sustainable markets, such as Sweden's biogas market. The framework highlights three key requirements: enabling exchange practices, constructing a narrative about sustainability, and proving the system through reliable evidence.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEnvironmental Innovation and Societal Transitions·DateJan 21, 2020

Study verifies a missing piece to urban air quality puzzle

A new study from Carnegie Mellon University sheds light on an under-appreciated source of organic aerosol (SOA) in urban areas, showing that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute significantly to SOA formation. The research reveals that non-traditional VOCs, such as those found in everyday household products, are a major contrib...

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 21, 2020

Cell biology: All in a flash!

Researchers at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have developed a tool that allows for the selective degradation of essential proteins in cells using light or chemicals. This method enables the study of protein function without relying on genetic mutations or gene deletion, which is often not possible for essential proteins.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 21, 2020

Glutamate in the brain has unexpected qualities, researchers show with new analysis method

Glutamate molecules have unexpected qualities, researchers show with a new analysis method. The technique measures activity and quantity of glutamate in brain cells, shedding light on its role in neurological disorders and diseases. This breakthrough could help improve understanding of pathologies and deliver real benefit.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 21, 2020

New roles found for Huntington's disease protein

A new study reveals that neurons in the striatum require the huntingtin gene for regulating movement, maintaining cell health, and developing connections between cells. This discovery may provide a new avenue against Huntington's disease, which affects motor control, dementia, and psychiatric symptoms.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 21, 2020

Less may be more in next-gen batteries

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a mechanism that protects cathodes from degrading in lithium-ion batteries by applying a thin layer of alumina, which also accelerates charging speed. This breakthrough could lead to more stable and efficient batteries for electric cars and grid storage.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJan 21, 2020

New tool assesses risk of depression in adolescence

Researchers developed a predictive tool to identify adolescents at high risk of depression in young adulthood using data from Brazilian adolescents. The tool demonstrated strong performance in Brazil but weaker results in UK and New Zealand samples due to differences in diagnostic measures, highlighting the need for local adaptation.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 21, 2020

Modified plants to curb climate change

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have discovered modified plants capable of absorbing excess carbon dioxide more effectively. The plants' metabolic networks can be modulated to increase CO2 absorption by five times, which could help mitigate global warming.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·DateJan 21, 2020

Research supports new approach to mine reclamation

Researchers found that geomorphic reclamation, a novel approach mimicking nearby undisturbed lands, outperforms traditional practices in restoring plant diversity and wildlife habitat. The study suggests that this method may be a practical solution for landscape-level restoration in post-mining sites.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateJan 21, 2020

Feeding the world without wrecking the planet is possible

Researchers at Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) discovered a way to produce enough food for up to 10 billion people without compromising the Earth system. The study suggests that adopting more sustainable forms of agriculture can increase production in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and improve climate resilience.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 21, 2020

University of Miami study explores cognitive function in people with mental illness

A University of Miami study has found that the profiles of genes influencing cognition are similar across people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and the general population. This discovery could lead to more effective therapies for improving cognitive function in patients with severe mental illness.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics·DateJan 21, 2020

New self-assembled monolayer is resistant to air

Scientists at the University of Groningen have created a new self-assembled monolayer using buckyballs functionalized with ethylene glycol, which remains chemically unchanged for several weeks when exposed to air. This makes it easier to use in research and devices, and could lead to breakthroughs in molecular electronics.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 21, 2020