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Science News for April 5, 2021


Study highlights benefits of tax planning for companies facing financial constraints

A recent study of over 2,000 companies found that those facing financial constraints can recoup significant amounts by modifying their tax strategies. The researchers discovered that these firms generated an average of 19% of their investment shortfall through tax planning, with some even receiving one-time benefits like R&D expenses.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·DateApr 5, 2021

Contraceptive planning is essential to optimal health for women with heart disease

Women with cardiovascular disease require reproductive planning to ensure optimal health and minimize risks during pregnancy. The American College of Cardiology emphasizes the importance of sharing decision-making with healthcare providers to create an action plan for contraception and medical decision-making.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2021

ACP best practice advice: Shorter course of antibiotics may be appropriate for some common infection

The American College of Physicians suggests prescribing shorter antibiotics courses for uncomplicated bronchitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and cellulitis, with duration guidelines varying by infection. This approach aims to reduce antibiotic exposure and prevent resistant organisms from developing.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 5, 2021

How climate change affects Colombia's coffee production

A new study by the University of Illinois reveals that climate change will impact Colombia's coffee production significantly, with low-altitude regions facing negative effects and high-altitude areas experiencing improved yields. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and coffee growers, highlighting the need for regi...

New study ties solar variability to the onset of decadal La Nina events

A new study finds a correlation between the end of solar cycles and a switch from El Nino to La Nina conditions in the Pacific Ocean. The researchers applied a 22-year solar clock to find this elusive correlation, which could improve predictability of major El Nino and La Nina events.

A diversity of wildlife is good for our health

Research suggests that biodiversity loss increases exposure to zoonotic pathogens. Restoring nature can prevent future pandemics by reducing the abundance of risky animal species. Biodiversity has a protective effect, and managing this risk requires understanding how human development and habitat conversion affect zoonotic hosts.

SourceCary Institute of Ecosystem Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

Ranking virus spillover risk

A new web application, SpillOver, evaluates wildlife viruses to estimate their zoonotic spillover and pandemic potential. The tool creates a watchlist of newly-discovered viruses, prioritizing them for further characterization, surveillance, and risk-reducing interventions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

Biodiversity's healthy byproduct -- nutrient-rich seafood

Researchers found that high biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems is essential for meeting human needs for micronutrients like calcium and iron. Seafood from biodiverse sources can help combat 'hidden hunger,' a phenomenon where people have access to enough calories but not enough nutrients.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

An artful study of cellular development in leaves

Researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing to track genetic activity in nearly 20,000 cells as they formed an Arabidopsis leaf. They found a surprising abundance of ambiguity in how cells traversed various identities, particularly early on within the stem cell population. The study reveals that cells may double-back on their developme...

SourceStanford University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 5, 2021

Humans were apex predators for two million years

Researchers at Tel Aviv University reconstructed the nutrition of stone age humans, finding they were specialized carnivores with a high-fat diet. The study used multiple lines of evidence, including genetics, metabolism, and archaeology, to conclude that humans evolved as apex predators for two million years.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateApr 5, 2021

Researchers extend the life of a dipolar molecule

Harvard University researchers have extended the lifespan of a dipolar molecule, enabling stable qubits for quantum computing and simulation applications. The new method allows for controlled individual atom interactions, granting scientists a key resource for molecule-based quantum information processing.

A sun reflector for earth?

A team of experts, including Phoebe Zarnetske and Jessica Gurevitch, investigate the ecological impacts of reflecting sunlight to cool the planet. Their research highlights the complexity of cascading relationships between ecosystem function and climate under different scenarios.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2021

New batteries give jolt to renewables, energy storage

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new type of battery that uses aluminum, offering up to 10,000 error-free cycles and potentially replacing lithium-ion batteries. This innovative technology could provide a safer and more sustainable alternative for energy storage, addressing the challenges of intermittent solar energy.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 5, 2021

Story tips: Mighty Mo material, fueling retooling, goods on the move, doubling concrete and more

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a refractory metal alloy that can withstand extreme temperatures and is viable for additive manufacturing. The team also created an electrocatalyst that enables the conversion of water and carbon dioxide into higher weight hydrocarbons, set to reduce fuel costs.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateApr 5, 2021

For 80% of Americans with resolved drug problem, significant personal achievements

A recent study published in Psychology of Addictive Behaviors found that 80% of Americans with resolved drug problems report significant personal achievements, including self-improvement, family engagement, and civic participation. These achievements accumulate over time and are associated with greater happiness and quality of life.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateApr 5, 2021

This hydrogen fuel machine could be the ultimate guide to self-improvement

Scientists at Berkeley Lab have discovered a self-improving property in Si/GaN that enables it to become more efficient and stable as an artificial photosynthesis device. The material, made of silicon and gallium nitride, can harness sunlight into carbon-free hydrogen with twice the efficiency and stability of previous technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 5, 2021

COVID-19 news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Case report describes two patients who underwent a successful second dose of the Moderna vaccine using a graded dosing protocol after experiencing immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Both patients responded well and developed IgG antibodies, suggesting effective vaccination despite the modified dosing schedule.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 5, 2021

CNIC scientists identify mutations acquired by blood cells that accelerate heart failure progression

A study published in JACC reveals that clonal hematopoiesis, a phenomenon where acquired DNA mutations accelerate heart failure progression, is an independent risk factor. The presence of specific mutant clones, including those with TET2 and DNMT3A mutations, increases the risk of hospitalization and death from heart failure.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2021