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Science News for August 17, 2021


How special are we?

A recent study sheds light on the formation of planetary systems like our own, suggesting that nearby supernovas may have contaminated gas with radioactive material. The researchers found a 59% chance that the enrichment process in Ophiuchus star-forming region is due to supernovas.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Astronomy·DateAug 17, 2021

Brain organoids develop optic cups that respond to light

Researchers generated brain organoids containing functional optic cups from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), demonstrating intrinsic self-patterning ability. The optic cups exhibited light sensitivity, diverse retinal cell types, and connectivity to brain regions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

A new approach to curing HIV

A new strategy for curing HIV targets latent viruses by blocking and excising the virus, offering hope for patients to be taken off daily treatments. The HOPE Collaboratory's approach uses genome editing technology to destroy latent HIV.

New exotic magnetic quasiparticle "skyrmion bundle" joins topological zoo

Researchers discovered a new family member of topological magnetic structures, the skyrmion bundle, which exhibits arbitrary topological charges. The study used Lorentz transmission electron microscopy and found collective motions and topological sign dependence of Hall sideway shifts driven by nanosecond pulsed currents.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Europe-wide political divide emerging between cities and countryside – study

A new study reveals a deepening geographical fracture in European societies, with rural areas showing lower trust in politics but higher voting rates. The research suggests that mainstream politicians must address feelings of disconnection from politics and provide economic opportunities to re-engage residents of small towns and villages.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCambridge Journal of Regions Economy and Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Humans vs. automation: Service center agents can outperform technology, study shows

Researchers from University of Notre Dame discovered that behavioral inertia can be beneficial in service center operations, particularly when agents are experts or handling difficult calls. The study suggests striking a balance between automated routing systems and agent discretion to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Operations Management·DateAug 17, 2021

US health care spending by race, ethnicity

Researchers estimated health care spending by race and ethnicity in the US from 2002 to 2016, finding that Hispanic patients faced the highest costs. The study suggests racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare spending are significant, affecting patient outcomes and access to care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 17, 2021

Contact tracing is key to suppressing COVID-19

A new University of Georgia study models the impact of three interventions - social distancing, contact tracing, and case isolation - on containing COVID-19. The researchers found that robust contact tracing was essential in suppressing outbreaks, with a significant increase in cases when efforts were less efficient.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEpidemics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2021

Dieting: Villain or scapegoat?

Research suggests that dieting is a consequence of an unhealthy food environment, rather than the cause of weight loss problems. Experts recommend refocusing concerns on changing the food environment to curb dieting and related issues.

SourceDrexel University·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateAug 17, 2021

Team develops bioprocess for converting plant materials into valuable chemicals

A team of scientists developed a bioprocess that efficiently converts plant matter into high-value bioproducts, overcoming a major hurdle in lignocellulosic biofuels. The process uses xylose and acetate as carbon sources, resulting in significant increases in TAL production and biomass accumulation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Ice formation on surfaces enhanced via a non-classical nucleation process

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have discovered a non-classical nucleation process that can greatly facilitate ice formation on foreign surfaces. This finding has the potential to decelerate glacier melting and alleviate environmental concerns by predicting and controlling crystallization processes.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2021

HKUST scientists develop genome-editing strategy for potential Alzheimer’s disease therapy

Researchers at HKUST have developed a novel genome-editing strategy to reduce Alzheimer's disease pathologies in genetically modified mouse models. The technology offers immense potential as a long-acting therapeutic treatment for AD patients, with lasting effects that prevent amyloid-related neurodegeneration.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 17, 2021

Researchers uncover evolutionary forces at play in the aging of the blood system and identify people at increased risk of blood cancer

A recent study has uncovered the evolutionary forces at play in the aging of the blood system and identified individuals at increased risk of blood cancer. The research provides a robust indicator for classifying patients with ARCH mutations, allowing for more frequent screening and early treatment.

SourceOntario Institute for Cancer Research·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2021

Indigenous territories fight climate change

Researchers found that Indigenous Territories are as effective as Protected Areas in preserving forest's carbon stocks, with some areas showing up to 10% more carbon storage. The study suggests that securing land titles and formalizing forest co-governance can bring multiple benefits for both indigenous people and national governments.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2021

Should cancer patients participate in tumour conferences?

A new study investigated the benefits of patient participation in tumour conferences for complex cancer cases. Most respondents perceived their participation as a positive experience, finding it informative and recommended to others. However, some patients reported feelings of fear and uncertainty after participating in the conference.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalCancer Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2021

Worsening GP shortages in disadvantaged areas likely to widen health inequalities

A study published by the University of Cambridge found significantly fewer full-time equivalent GPs and total direct patient care staff in deprived areas. Despite some compensation due to increased numbers of nurses, the shortage is likely to widen health inequalities, with limited access to care for those who need it most.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBJGP Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

New tool to quantify risk of cognitive dysfunction in drug treatment programs

Researchers have developed a simple assessment tool to evaluate patients' risk of cognitive dysfunction in drug treatment programs. The tool combines cognitive measures with patient demographics and health history to produce an overall risk score, helping staff identify accommodations needed for effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2021

Ultra-complex structure of carbon disulfide proved under high pressure

A study by researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science reveals that non-molecular carbon disulfide exhibits a mixture of 3 and 4-fold coordinated carbon atoms, contradicting the long-held Bridgman's polymer model. This finding enhances understanding of bonding behaviors in group IV and VI AB2 compounds.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

New way of analyzing tree rings confirms unprecedented central Asia warming

Researchers reconstructed Mongolia's temperature history using a new tree ring analysis method, confirming record-breaking summer warmth over the past eight centuries. The study supports the delta blue intensity method and enhances climate projections, highlighting the urgent need to address Central Asia's rapid warming.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Researchers identify mechanisms of resistance to drug for triple-negative breast cancer

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified two separate genetic alterations that enable triple-negative breast cancer cells to develop resistance to a highly effective drug. The findings could help improve therapy and prolong survival for patients with this aggressive form of breast cancer.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Light can trigger key signaling pathway for embryonic development, cancer

Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a method to regulate the Wnt signaling pathway using blue light, allowing them to study its functions in embryonic development and cancer. This approach enables precise control over the pathway's activity, potentially leading to new treatments for tissue repair and cancer research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Cannabis use rises during Australian COVID lockdown, but less meth on the streets

A wastewater study conducted in Australia during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown found that cannabis use surged, while methamphetamine (ice) use plummeted. The research, led by the University of South Australia, analyzed wastewater samples from 20 treatment plants across the country and showed a significant increase in cannabis use nationwide.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Cracking a mystery of massive black holes and quasars with supercomputer simulations

Researchers used high-powered simulations to study the mysterious process of gas flow across the universe, feeding massive black holes. The new method shows that strong gravitational forces from stars can twist and destabilize gas, driving sufficient influx to power a luminous quasar at galaxy activity peaks.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2021

Novel nanoplatform to enhance therapeutic effect for cancer

Researchers have developed a novel nanoplatform to enhance therapeutic effects for cancer, using biomimetic cell membranes and pseudomonas geniculate cells as the natural source. The platform shows minimal cytotoxicity and facilitates efficient drug internalization, while accelerating reactive oxygen species generation in cancerous cells.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Nanobiotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Mutated enzyme weakens connection between brain cells that help control movement

Researchers found a mutation in ELOVL4 enzyme impairs communication between neurons, leading to impaired motor control and coordination. The study provides new insights into the essential role of ELOVL4 in motor function and synaptic plasticity, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateAug 17, 2021

Cancer increases future risk of kidney failure

A Korean population-based cohort study found that cancer, particularly multiple myeloma and leukemia, is associated with an increased risk of kidney failure. The study included approximately 825,000 patients with cancer compared to twice as many without cancer, matched on other characteristics.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateAug 17, 2021

New epidemiology study reveals clues that can help combat HIV/AIDS in China

A new epidemiology study reveals crucial trends in HIV/AIDS progression in China from 1990 to 2017. The study highlights the need for effective strategies to reduce mortality rates, especially among men, by intensifying targeted efforts including early identification and diagnosis, high-quality treatment services, and patient retention.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 17, 2021

Phasecraft improves Hamiltonian simulation for near-term quantum computers by five orders of magnitude

Phasecraft's new research improves Hamiltonian simulation for near-term quantum computers by five orders of magnitude, making it possible to simulate complex materials and chemistry applications within 2-3 years. The breakthrough algorithm can run on noisy, intermediate-scale quantum hardware, accelerating the pace of real-world impact.

SourcePhasecraft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2021

604,000 emergency ambulance calls for COVID in first wave, UK national survey reveals - care provided varied widely across the country

A major new survey of UK ambulance services found over 600,000 emergency calls for suspected COVID-19 during the first wave, with ambulances sent to nearly 80% of cases. Care received varied widely by geographic area, with some services sending ambulances to under 60% of Covid callers.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open·DateAug 17, 2021

Gender revolutions in who holds the purse strings

Research from Lancaster University finds that low-earning and high-earning women are taking more control of their finances, with high-earning women 'going solo' in money management. Meanwhile, low-earning women are seeing a relaxation of male control over household finances.

SourceLancaster University·JournalGender & Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Sharing the love helps male acorn woodpeckers father more chicks

A new study finds that male acorn woodpeckers breeding in polygamous groups with one or two other males sire significantly more chicks over their lifetimes than males breeding alone. In contrast, females in polygamous groups leave behind fewer offspring than those in monogamous pairs.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

New study reveals that children of mothers with diabetes during pregnancy have an increased risk of eye problems

A new study published in Diabetologia found that children of mothers with diabetes before or during pregnancy are more likely to develop high refractive error (RE), including long and short-sightedness. The study analyzed data from over 2.4 million births in Denmark and found a significant association between maternal diabetes and an i...

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateAug 17, 2021

US health systems must adopt unified vision to succeed according to a new survey

A new survey by University of Colorado Denver researchers found large disparities in virtual care models across US health systems. Smaller and low-burdened health systems adopted analytics and customer-oriented digital technologies, while larger and higher-revenue systems used futuristic and growth-oriented digital technologies.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Denver·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeSurvey·DateAug 17, 2021

Study: As cities grow in size, the poor 'get nothing at all'

A new study found that larger cities produce more income inequality, with the poor experiencing a decline in quality of life. The researchers analyzed data from municipal areas across the US and found that the top 10% of earners gain an increasingly large portion of wealth as cities grow.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

Elder abuse impacts over 10% of older adults in NY

A new study from Cornell University finds that elder mistreatment is a highly prevalent problem in New York state, affecting nearly 1 in 10 older adults over the next decade. The research team identified poor health as a major risk factor and noted that people who transition to living alone are more likely to suffer financial abuse.

SourceCornell University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 17, 2021

Nanocluster discovery will protect precious metals

Researchers from the University of Nottingham have developed a novel catalyst that combines homogeneous and heterogeneous features, defying traditional categorization. The discovery holds promise for increasing the active surface area available for catalysis, leading to more efficient and sustainable production of molecules.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Public opposes repressive policing of protesters, but fear, racial beliefs, protests’ goals can boost support for police control

A new study found that the public generally opposes repressive policing of protesters, but certain tactics by protesters increase fear and support for police repression. The goals of protests also impact support for police repression, with racially resentful individuals more supportive of repression.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology·DateAug 17, 2021

Gestational diabetes by race, ethnicity in US

Gestational diabetes rates in the US have increased among certain racial and ethnic groups between 2011 and 2019, highlighting persistent health inequities. The study found that Hispanic women had significantly higher rates of gestational diabetes compared to non-Hispanic white, black, or Asian women.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 17, 2021

Benefits of time-restricted eating depend on age and sex

A new study by Salk scientists found that time-restricted eating (TRE) confers multiple health benefits, including reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and sepsis, regardless of age and sex. TRE may also protect against infectious diseases like COVID-19 and improve insulin resistance.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021

Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B volume 11, issue 7 publishes

This issue of Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B features innovative research on pharmacologically targeting molecular motor for anti-cancer, novel PGAM5 inhibitor LFHP-1c protecting blood-brain barrier integrity in ischemic stroke, and a versatile tool for anchor pharmacophore steered drug discovery. Additionally, the journal publishes revie...

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateAug 17, 2021

Cannabis use disorder: Another COVID risk factor

Research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests that cannabis use disorder (CUD) may be a risk factor for poorer COVID-19 outcomes due to a genetic predisposition. CUD was found to account for up to 40% of genetically influenced risk factors, such as body mass index and diabetes, for severe COVID-19 presentations.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalBiological Psychiatry Global Open Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2021

OU-MRU: A berry vine found in Asia proves useful in combating lung cancer

A research team from Okayama University has reported the potential of a berry-producing vine, Vitis coignetiae Pulliat (Yamabudo), against lung cancer in mice. The study found that extracts from Yamabudo and its chemical compounds display tumor-suppressing properties by repairing DNA damage and suppressing growth signaling pathways.

SourceOkayama University·JournalFood and Chemical Toxicology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 17, 2021