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Science News for December 13, 2021


Identifying rare disease-associated genetic variants in patients with severe schizophrenia

Researchers have found that individuals with extremely treatment-resistant schizophrenia carry a higher burden of rare, damaging genetic variants than those with typical schizophrenia. This study suggests that focusing on patients with severe forms of the illness could improve the detection of disease-associated genetic variants.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2021

Extinct megafauna prone to ancient ‘hunger games’

A team of researchers has uncovered a previously unrecognised process contributing to the disappearance of ancient megafauna communities across south-eastern Australia. Changing food supply driven by climatic changes or human land use in the Late Pleistocene era might have facilitated the extinction of the biggest herbivores.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEcography·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

New gene-writing technology to obtain more effective and safe therapies developed

Researchers have developed Find Cut-and-Transfer (FiCAT) technology, a tool capable of accurately writing small and large genes. FiCAT allows precise insertion of large fragments into the genome, enabling development of therapeutic solutions for diseases like Duchenne muscular dystrophy and hereditary blindness.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

New treatment combination without chemotherapy is effective in PH+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia

A new treatment combination of dasatinib, blinatumomab, and prednisone has shown promise in treating older patients with Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The trial achieved a three-year DFS rate of 80 percent and an overall survival rate of 85 percent for enrolled patients.

SourceSWOG Cancer Research Network·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 13, 2021

Researchers of CONTAIN study say convalescent plasma likely had benefit in early days of COVID-19; could be used early in next pandemic

A landmark study found that convalescent plasma was safe and effective in treating early COVID-19 patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems. The trial showed improved outcomes in patients given high-titer plasma during the first quarter of the pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 13, 2021

Marathon experiment reveals quirks of quarks

The Marathon experiment has provided new insights into the distribution of quarks, particularly the down quark, as a function of momentum. The study suggests that nuclei may be built using quasi-particles with changed internal quark structures, a paradigm shift in atomic physics.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 13, 2021

New inexpensive method to detect lime in soil

University of Adelaide scientists developed a new simple and inexpensive method to detect low concentrations of agricultural lime in soils. The Mid Infrared spectroscopy technique allows for accurate detection of very small amounts of lime, enabling farmers to manage their soils more effectively.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalGeoderma·DateDec 13, 2021

Live-streaming ads for alcohol, junk food increased during pandemic

A Penn State study found that live-streaming ads for alcohol, energy drinks, and junk food significantly increased during the pandemic, targeting young viewers. The researchers discovered that energy drinks made up nearly 80% of marketing, while ads for restaurants and soda were also prevalent.

SourcePenn State·JournalPublic Health Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

Superhero behavior sheds light on staying healthy in later life

Researchers analyzed Marvel movies to understand aging trajectories and outcomes among superheroes. They found that physical activity, social cohesion, and a positive mindset are essential for healthy aging, while negative behaviors such as loud noises and smoking increase the risk of dementia and disability.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Computer-, smartphone-based treatments effective at reducing symptoms of depression

A meta-analysis of 83 studies found that digital interventions improved depression symptoms over control conditions, but the effect was not as strong as face-to-face psychotherapy. Digital treatments with human components were most effective in reducing symptoms, particularly when accompanied by human guidance.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

No more ‘patch and go’: Revolving emergency departments must deliver more for victims of child abuse and neglect

Researchers found alarmingly high attendance rates at hospital emergency departments for children, teens, and adult victims of child abuse and neglect. Children exposed to child maltreatment have substantially increased risk of attending emergency departments during childhood and early adulthood.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·TypeCase study·DateDec 13, 2021

Personality traits predict performance differently across different jobs

A new study by researchers at the University of Arkansas found that personality traits, such as conscientiousness and extraversion, have varying effects on job performance across different occupational groups. The study's findings suggest that jobs with moderate complexity are ideal for relying on personality traits to predict performa...

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Vocational Behavior·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

An enemy within: Pathogens hide in tissue

Research at University of Basel discovered that certain areas in tissue allow bacteria to survive despite antibiotic therapy. Immune system plays a critical role in eradicating bacteria, and boosting defenses with immune therapy can lead to more effective clearance.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2021

Gene Network changes associated with cancer onset and progression identify new candidates for targeted gene therapy

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have identified a key class of genetic changes associated with cancer, which may be missed by current gene expression analyses. These 'hub genes' play a central role in shaping the network structure of cancer cells and could serve as new targets for targeted gene therapy.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournaliScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

Common sleep disorder combo could be deadly

A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that people with both insomnia and obstructive sleep apnoea are at a higher risk of heart problems and mortality. Participants with co-morbid insomnia and sleep apnoea were two times more likely to have high blood pressure and 70% more likely to have cardiovascular disease.

SourceFlinders University·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

New health economic framework to help assess what might be required to eliminate African sleeping sickness by 2030

Researchers have created a new framework to help decision makers understand the resources needed to eliminate African sleeping sickness, a disease targeted for elimination by 2030. The framework uses uncertainty, cost-effectiveness, and elimination to support investment in elimination efforts.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

New technology could help doctors improve COVID-19 patient outcomes

Researchers at the University of Tokyo and University of Virginia developed a new diagnostic technology that can identify patients at risk of microvascular thrombosis. The technology analyzes blood samples to detect excessive platelet aggregation, an early indicator of blood clotting, in nearly 90% of COVID-19 patients.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Challenging Einstein’s greatest theory with extreme stars

A team of international researchers challenged Einstein's theory of general relativity using pulsars as a cosmic laboratory. They detected new relativistic effects, including light deflection and time dilation, with unprecedented precision. The study provides significant insights into gravity theories and the fundamental forces of nature.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Early-stage lung cancer may be detected from a drop of blood

A predictive model based on magnetic resonance spectroscopy can detect lung cancer from alterations in blood metabolites, allowing for early-stage screening and potentially improving survival rates. The study screened tens of thousands of blood specimens and found accurate predictions using values from prior-to-diagnosis blood samples.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2021

A gender dimension of energy: Modern cooking fuels connected to quicker demographic transition

Access to modern cooking fuels like gas and electricity improves health and frees up time for women to seek information and education, ultimately leading to reproductive rights. The study found a significant connection between modern energy access and lower fertility rates in countries with high initial fertility rates.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

Decreased vehicle emissions linked with significant drop in deaths attributable to air pollution

A new study found that reducing vehicle emissions since 2008 has resulted in a significant drop in deaths due to air pollution, with estimated social benefits of $270 billion in the US. Passenger light-duty vehicles, such as SUVs and pickup trucks, continue to contribute a substantial amount of air pollution in major metropolitan areas.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Scientists discover and name novel gene that governs left-right asymmetry within the human body

Researchers identified the CIROP gene, crucial for establishing proper left-right asymmetry during embryonic development, which is linked to congenital heart defects and misplacement of internal organs. The study provides insights into the development of left-right patterning and has implications for research on potential therapies.

Experiment gives rise to social conventions between baboons

Guinea baboons developed common rules for a device task in just three days, demonstrating efficient and arbitrary solutions. The conventions were stable over time and unaffected by the absence of individual interaction.

SourceCNRS·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Researchers at Aarhus University, Denmark, develop a molecule that blocks SARS-CoV-2 infection

A research team at Aarhus University has developed an RNA aptamer that attaches to the surface of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, preventing it from entering human cells. This molecule is cheaper and easier to manufacture than current antibodies, making it a promising tool for detecting covid-19 infection.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Isotope analyses unlock Iron Age secrets

The study reveals that ancient metal items were sourced from various Mediterranean locations, including Iberian and eastern Alpine regions. This discovery provides insight into the coastal mobility and cultural interactions between indigenous communities in France and the broader Western Mediterranean basin.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2021

UCF researchers’ ethanol fuel cells offer new alternative to power cars, technology

The University of Central Florida researchers have developed an alcohol-based power source for cars and other technology that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. The ethanol fuel cell has achieved a maximum power density and operation time of over 5,900 hours, making it a promising alternat...

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Ancient acid taste receptors

A team of researchers has identified a taste receptor sensitive to acidity in fruit flies, which is also present in humans. The discovery suggests that sensing acids must be crucial for survival and provides insight into the mechanisms underlying sour taste.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2021

Columbia University study identifies gene variants linked to severe schizophrenia

A study published in PNAS found that individuals with severe schizophrenia have a higher number of rare mutations than those with typical forms of the illness. This discovery could lead to more precise treatments for this chronic disease, which affects over 3 million Americans.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 13, 2021

Massive cost, meager benefit

A new evidence review by Oregon Health & Science University researchers found that the expensive multiple sclerosis drug Acthar provides very little clinical benefit compared to less-expensive alternatives. The study screened 41 studies and found weak or no benefit from Acthar against standard medications like corticosteroids.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2021

Cannabis use could cause harmful drug interactions

New research suggests that cannabis use can lead to harmful drug-drug interactions by interfering with two families of enzymes that metabolize a wide range of drugs. This could result in unintended side effects such as toxicity or accidental overdose, particularly for older individuals using medications.

SourceWashington State University·JournalDrug Metabolism and Disposition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Chicago study finds individual housing dramatically reduced coronavirus rates in at-risk people experiencing homelessness

A Chicago study found that providing individual hotel rooms and medical support to high-risk homeless individuals reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection rates by 75% compared to citywide rates in shelters. The intervention also led to improvements in health measures such as blood pressure and glycemic control, with over half of participants movi...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 13, 2021

Experimental gene therapy reverses sickle cell disease for years

A new gene therapy called LentiGlobin has been shown to completely eliminate episodes of severe pain caused by sickle cell disease and restore blood cells to their normal shape. The treatment uses a patient's own stem cells and has the potential to give people with this disease their life back.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 13, 2021

THE LANCET PUBLIC HEALTH: COVID-19 certification may increase vaccine uptake in countries with below average vaccination coverage, modelling study suggests

A modelling study suggests COVID-19 certification increases vaccine uptake in countries with below-average vaccination coverage. In six countries, certification was linked to a significant uptick in anticipation of restrictions and continued increases after introduction.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

Hip Hop song linked to a reduction in suicides in the US

A study found that a hip hop song about suicide prevention led to an increase in calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and a reduction in suicides. The researchers suggest that positive media stories can have a protective effect, particularly for hard-to-reach groups.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Once upon a BCG vaccine

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology identified Th1* cells as a key marker in the body's immune signature following BCG vaccination. The study found that these cells respond well to the vaccine and can help fight the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium that causes TB.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Australian GenesisCare doctors co-author world-first international consensus statement on Cardio-Oncology

The international consensus statement provides critical recommendations for the cardiovascular management and follow-up of patients undergoing radiation therapy. The paper highlights the need to identify and address cardiovascular risk factors to prevent cardiotoxicity, emphasizing the importance of regular screening and treatment for ...

SourceGenesisCare·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2021

A missing genetic switch at the origin of malformations

Researchers from UNIGE found that a single missing genetic switch can lead to clubfoot and other malformations by disrupting cellular activation. The study highlights the crucial role of genetic switches in developmental disorders, suggesting that flaws in these mechanisms may be responsible for numerous malformations.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Wind turbines kill mostly female and juvenile bats

A study by Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research found that juvenile Nathusius' pipistrelle bats are killed more frequently than adults at wind turbines, with females also being disproportionately affected. This highlights the need to implement schemes to mitigate wind turbine mortality and protect migratory bat populations.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalEcological Applications·TypeSurvey·DateDec 13, 2021

Swirling bacteria mimic Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’

Researchers from Rice University and the University of Wyoming discovered self-organization into circular aggregates in Myxococcus xanthus, a model system for social cooperation. The circular behavior is linked to TraAB protein overexpression, which creates a sticky bond between cells, preventing reversals.

SourceRice University·JournalmSystems·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

Significant energy savings when electric distribution vehicles take their best route

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed an algorithm that learns optimal energy usage for electric delivery-vehicles. By focusing on overall energy usage instead of just distance travelled, the vehicles can reduce their energy consumption by up to 20% and minimize battery usage.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalTransportation Research Part E Logistics and Transportation Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

Big-headed ancient fish had land on its mind

Researchers used CT scanning to study the cranium of Cladarosymblema narrienense, a 330-million-year-old fish that may have evolved into first four-limbed vertebrates. The analysis suggests a significant brain role in regulating endocrine glands and supports the monophyletic group of megalichthyid fish.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPeerJ·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Your perception of self becomes blurrier over time

Researchers found that our concept of self becomes increasingly indistinct as we think about ourselves farther in the past or future, affecting decision-making and memory recall. The 'temporal self-compression' effect challenges traditional notions of identity and time perception.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 13, 2021

UCLA-led study provides first indirect evidence that PSMA PET/CT surpasses conventional imaging in detecting occult prostate cancer spread and predicting long-term course and outcomes

A recent UCLA-led study provided indirect evidence that PSMA PET/CT improves risk-stratification and prognostic capabilities for high-risk prostate cancer patients. The study found that PSMA nomogram outperformed existing tools in predicting clinical outcomes, suggesting its significance in disease course prediction.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2021

Stress, by itself, can lead to excessive drinking in women but not men

A study by Arizona State University found that stress alone can lead to excessive drinking in women, while men only drink more when they've already consumed alcohol. The research highlights the importance of studying sex differences in alcohol consumption and challenges existing models developed primarily for men.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021