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Science News for December 2, 2021


Host and resident bacteria join forces to control fungi in plant roots

A complex microbial community comprising bacteria, fungi, and oomycetes is beneficial for plant growth. Inactivation of the plant innate immune system shifts this balance, making the fungal load a primary cause of disease. Bacterial partners residing in roots provide an additional layer of protection.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2021

How vaccinated UK healthcare workers infected with different variants respond to new ones

A new study found that vaccinated UK healthcare workers who were previously infected with different COVID-19 variants show varying levels of protection against new variants. The results suggest that the sequence of variant exposure influences immunogenicity profiles, highlighting the need for tailored vaccine development.

Refinement of genetic signals for psoriasis by combining European-origin and South Asian populations

A Michigan Medicine study combined genetic samples from patients of different ethnic backgrounds, identifying two new psoriasis genetic signals. The inclusion of South Asian subjects allowed researchers to pinpoint several genetic variations within HLA genes that are likely to play a causal role in psoriasis.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHuman Genetics and Genomics Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 2, 2021

Microplastic pollution aids antibiotic resistance

A new study led by Rice University engineers finds that microplastic pollution contributes to the spread of antibiotic-resistant genes. The researchers discovered that aging polystyrene breaks down into microplastics with high surface areas, trapping microbes and leaching chemicals that enhance gene transfer.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Data can help address health disparities

A local health department in Indiana used surveillance data to identify neighborhoods with high disease burden and set up test sites, resulting in a decline in new cases among targeted groups. The success of this intervention highlights the importance of using data to address systemic racism and promote health equity.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 2, 2021

Harvard-led researchers document the presence of quantum spin liquids, a never-before-seen state of matter

Researchers at Harvard have successfully observed quantum spin liquids, a previously unseen state of matter that has been elusive for nearly 50 years. By manipulating ultracold atoms in a programmable quantum simulator, the team was able to create and study this exotic state, which holds promise for advancing quantum technologies.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Breakthrough research on human embryo models paves the way for improving in vitro fertilization success rate and new non-hormonal, user-friendly contraception

Researchers have discovered molecules that could be candidates for contraceptives or fertility enhancers using human blastoid models. These models also show promise in improving the self-organization of stem cells during IVF procedures.

Baryon form factor measurements at the BESIII experiment

The BESIII experiment has made significant contributions to understanding the internal structure of baryons. By measuring proton and neutron form factors, the team has clarified long-standing tensions between previous experiments. The study also reveals new insights into the interactions and fundamental structure of baryons.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 2, 2021

Discovery of a new kinetic factor that governs the carbon metabolism evolution of ancient microbes

Researchers developed a kinetic hypothesis governing the evolution of the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA) based on simulation experiments. They discovered a kinetic factor that governs the flow of chemical reactions in the TCA cycle, validating their hypothesis for deep-branching bacteria and archaea.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 2, 2021

It takes guts to make a heart

Researchers developed a new kind of organoid that grows both heart and gut cells together, mirroring their cooperation in embryonic development. This breakthrough could improve understanding of tissue communication and inform research into congenital disorders.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateDec 2, 2021

Perovskite solar cells soar to new heights

Researchers have developed a novel method to improve the efficiency of inverted architecture perovskite solar cells by introducing organic halide salts at both interfaces. This approach has achieved a power conversion efficiency of 23.7%, the highest reported to date, while also improving device stability.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2021

Growing carbon footprint for plastics

The global plastics supply chain has a significant impact on the climate, with production accounting for 96% of total greenhouse gas emissions. The use of coal-based energy in plastic production is driving this growth, with emissions quadrupling since 1995 and causing health issues like air pollution and asthma.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateDec 2, 2021

Racial disparities and facility access in mammography recovery after COVID-19 closures

A study found that racial disparities in mammography screening worsened after COVID-19 closures, with non-white patients facing reduced access to facilities. Early interventions aimed at expanding access to these facilities helped to recover late recovery volumes for patients of races other than white.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

Georgia State University Center for Translational Antiviral Research reports a novel broad-spectrum antiviral drug class with activity against SARS-CoV-2

Researchers at Georgia State University have developed a new candidate antiviral drug, 4’-FlU, which shows potent activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory RNA viruses. The study demonstrates that 4’-FlU induces termination of the viral polymerase, aborting replication and offering a strong therapeutic asset.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

How food intake modifies the gut

Researchers found that increasing food amount elevates intestinal absorptive surface and function due to enhanced PPARα expression. Food restriction reverses this process, suggesting potential avenues for limiting obesity.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

In Bangladesh, mask-wearing reduced COVID-like illness, cluster-randomized controlled trial shows

A cluster-randomized controlled trial in rural Bangladesh shows that proper mask-wearing significantly reduces symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections. Mask distribution and promotion increased community-wide mask-wearing by 29% and reduced reported COVID-like illness, especially among high-risk individuals.

Tracking the neurons that make us social

A team from UNIGE found that dopaminergic neurons in the reward system are responsible for motivating social interactions. The study used mice to demonstrate how these neurons release dopamine, crucial for motivated behaviors and learning.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Light vs. data: Backpropagation advancing optical metrology and inverse design process

A new technique using thin-film neural networks (TFNNs) improves processing times for all-optical neural networks and enables fast optimization of photonic devices. The approach accelerates the design and fabrication of multilayer thin films, mimicking human retina cells.

Predictive analytics pays off with complementary investments

A study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management found that predictive analytics can increase revenue by $500,000 to $1 million for manufacturers who invest in IT capital, educate their workforce, and implement high-efficiency manufacturing processes. The research team surveyed over 30,000 manufacturers and found that...

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalBusiness Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Boosting thermopower of oxides via artificially laminated metal/insulator heterostructure

Researchers developed a new method to significantly enhance thermoelectric voltage at low temperatures by creating laminate structures with transition metal oxide and insulating layers. The 'phonon-drag effect' is responsible for the enhancement, where flowing phonons drive electrons to produce extra thermoelectric voltage.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Subminiature multifunctional brain chip analyzes brain activity from multiple aspects

A subminiature multifunctional brain chip has been developed to analyze brain activity from multiple aspects. The chip integrates a fluid channel for extracting cerebrospinal fluid, injecting medicine, and measuring brain signals, minimizing brain damage and enabling precise analysis of neurotransmitters and brain signals.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 2, 2021

Scientists identify animal model for two emerging tick-borne hemorrhagic viruses

Researchers have identified pigtailed macaques as a suitable animal model for studying two emerging tick-borne hemorrhagic viruses, Kyasanur Forest disease and Alkhurma hemorrhagic disease. The study found that infected macaques exhibited symptoms similar to those in humans, including loss of appetite, dehydration, and hemorrhaging.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

New insights to combat soft drink consumption

Research from Flinders University found self-regulatory control and evaluative bias towards soft drinks associated with increased consumption. The study aimed to identify new methods to help habitual soft drink users regulate their intake. Young adults are the core consumers of soft drinks, posing a major public health problem.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAppetite·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

Mouse study suggests manipulation of certain nerve cells can help regenerate lost heart muscle

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that manipulating certain nerve cells may trigger the formation of new heart muscle cells, restoring heart function after heart attacks. The study found that removing specific genes associated with circadian rhythms increased neonatal heart size and cardiomyocyte numbers by up to 10%.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 2, 2021

Perceiving sound-letter associations in English can help learn to read it better, Pusan National University scientist says

A new study from Pusan National University suggests that phonological awareness (PA) and phonics instruction can significantly improve the reading skills of English language learners. The meta-analysis of 46 studies found a moderate effect of PA and phonics on word reading, but a larger impact on pseudo-word reading.

SourcePusan National University·JournalSAGE Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Caught on Camera: Live Imaging of Transcription Using Active RNA Polymerase II-Specific Probes

Scientists from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a genetically encoded probe to visualize active transcription sites in living cells. The probe successfully identified phosphorylated Ser2 in RNA polymerase II, allowing for the localization of elongation phase transcription sites in real-time.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Twisting elusive quantum particles with a quantum computer

Scientists from TUM and Google Quantum AI used a highly controllable quantum processor to simulate exotic particles called anyons, which can emerge as collective excitations in two-dimensional systems. The study reveals the properties of these particles through braiding statistics, a key feature of topologically ordered states.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 2, 2021

Predicting protein-protein interactions

A deep-learning model called D-SCRIPT predicts protein-protein interactions from primary amino acid sequences with high accuracy. The model enables the detection of functional subnetworks and can be applied to many species, including those with rare or lacking PPI data.

SourceTufts University·JournalCell Systems·DateDec 2, 2021

Parent-teacher relationship vital to home schooling

A new study reveals the vital role primary school teachers play in supporting families during home schooling, particularly for middle-income families who struggle to balance work and childcare responsibilities. The research highlights the range of resources and services provided by teachers to help mitigate socio-economic disadvantages.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEducational Review·TypeSurvey·DateDec 2, 2021

PCORI Board approves $49.5 million to fund new research studies addressing pain relief, smoking cessation, mental health and other conditions

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Board approved funding for nine new comparative clinical effectiveness research studies addressing various health conditions. These studies focus on telehealth and mobile health strategies, reducing disparities in maternal health, and improving care for people with intellectual a...

Blue hydrogen can help protect the climate

A study by the Paul Scherrer Institute finds that blue hydrogen can play a positive role in the energy transition under certain conditions, especially when carbon capture and storage is used effectively. However, methane leakage along the supply chain can reduce its climate benefits.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

‘Immune imprinting’ by different SARS-CoV-2 spike sequences from variants and vaccines means we now have diverse patterns of protection against new variants

A study by Imperial College London found that the first SARS-CoV-2 spike protein encountered through vaccination or infection influences subsequent immune responses to current and future variants. This 'immune imprinting' affects the rate of decay of protection and impacts antibody levels over time.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

Language used by researchers to describe human populations has evolved over the last 70 years

Researchers studied the usage of population terms in a 70-year publication history of the American Journal of Human Genetics, finding changes in word usage and associations between terms. The study suggests that structural racism, social trends, and changing views on social constructs may be linked to these changes.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 2, 2021

Teens, isolation and COVID

Research suggests that adolescents who struggled with difficult peer interactions before the pandemic did not experience increased depression and anxiety during isolation. In contrast, teens in general reported increased symptoms. The findings imply that COVID isolation may have had a different impact on teenagers with problematic peer...

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalResearch on Child and Adolescent Psychopathology·DateDec 2, 2021

Evasive maneuvers

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified likely mutations that would allow the virus to evade immune defenses, including natural immunity and vaccine-developed antibodies. The study provides important clues about areas of concern with omicron variant and serves as a primer for future variants.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateDec 2, 2021

Aircraft reveal a surprisingly strong Southern Ocean carbon sink

A new study led by NCAR finds that the Southern Ocean absorbs significantly more carbon than it releases, clarifying its role as a carbon sink. Airborne measurements of carbon dioxide reveal critical patterns in the global carbon cycle, providing insights into climate change projections and emission reduction measures.

Putting the fizz into salty water

A new study from the University of Bath is shedding light on the behavior of saline solutions under extreme conditions, a crucial step towards carbon storage in deep-sea aquifers. The research uses neutron diffraction to examine the interaction between salt ions and water molecules at high pressures and temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Does cancer immunotherapy work differently in men vs. women?

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that women with advanced melanoma are more likely to die from checkpoint inhibitors, a class of cancer treatment. The researchers analyzed health records of 1,369 patients and discovered a significant difference in mortality rates between men and women treated with the same combinatio...

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

‘Implementation Science’ Critical to Reducing Antibiotic Resistance

A new white paper shares practical strategies to inform stewardship efforts and ensure appropriate use of antibiotics, citing the public health crisis of antibiotic resistance leading to 23,000 preventable deaths each year. Implementation science principles can bridge the evidence-practice gap.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 2, 2021

New research suggests medical instrument processing personnel may be exposed to tissue, blood, and patient fluids despite the use of personal protective equipment

New research found that even with proper PPE, medical instrument processing personnel are frequently exposed to splashing liquids during routine activities. The study highlights the need for additional research to support evidence-based guidelines and recommends a combination of engineering solutions and improved protective gear.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

For cardiovascular disease patients, more physical activity may be better

Researchers found that increased physical activity reduced mortality risk in all groups, but health benefits plateaued in healthy individuals and those with cardiovascular risk factors. In contrast, cardiovascular disease patients showed no further benefit beyond a certain volume of physical activity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

Study: Many Medicaid-enrolled women in Virginia weren’t aware of dental pregnancy benefits

A study found that many Medicaid-enrolled women in Virginia were unaware of dental pregnancy benefits, despite comprehensive coverage enacted in 2015. The survey revealed significant gaps in oral health knowledge among reproductive-age women by insurance status, with Medicaid-enrolled women facing barriers to care at higher rates.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJournal of Women s Health·DateDec 2, 2021

Unlocking the cause of UTI-induced delirium

Cedars-Sinai researchers discovered that interleukin-6 mediates delirium-like phenotypes in mice with urinary tract infections, highlighting a potential therapeutic target. The study suggests that modulating immune responses may help alleviate UTI-induced delirium.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

A new microscope

Researchers have developed a new two-photon microscope that provides subcellular resolution of multiple brain regions, enabling monitoring of neural circuitry in mammals. The microscope has the largest field of view and imaging speed to capture changes in neuron activity during behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2021

Are pandemic-related stressors increasing young women’s vulnerability to STIs?

A recent study published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology found a significant increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among girls and young women in western Kenya, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers attribute this rise to increased stress-related changes in the vaginal microbiome.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 2, 2021

Presentation of the first personalized virtual planning and navigation system for craniosynostosis surgery

Researchers at Hospital Gregorio Marañón and UC3M developed a navigation system combining surgical navigation, three-dimensional photography, and augmented reality to estimate bone fragment positions during surgery. This system has been used on 7 patients with optimal results, reducing dependency on surgeons' experience.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPlastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open·DateDec 2, 2021

Green information technologies: Superconductivity meets spintronics

Researchers have created a material system exhibiting unusually long-range Josephson effect, enabling macroscopic quantum coherence and potential for spintronic applications. The discovery of 'triplet' superconductivity, where electrons with the same spin circulate, expands possibilities for low-power consumption devices.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Building better tools for biomanufacturing

A team of researchers has developed a Dynamic Sampling Platform to analyze cells in real-time, overcoming the time-consuming and expensive process of biomanufacturing. The platform provides insight into cell behavior and biochemical information needed for process control, potentially lowering the cost of cell therapies.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Kids’ books missing the mark on gender equity -- study

A new study found that children's books in long day care centres are often not inclusive of diverse characters and perpetuate traditional gender roles. The research team analysed eight long day care centres in Australia and the USA, finding that only 10% of frequently read books featured diverse characters.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalThe Australian Educational Researcher·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Forty percent of North Atlantic right whale population using Gulf of Saint Lawrence as seasonal habitat

Researchers identified 187 North Atlantic right whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, a 40% segment of the catalogued population, with most returning every year for up to 5 months. The study highlights the importance of the Gulf as a habitat and provides valuable information for developing protection measures.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalEndangered Species Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 2, 2021

Harnessing the organization of the cell surface

Scientists have developed a technology called LUX-MS to study the organisation of cell surface molecules, revealing that proteins work together to fulfil cellular functions. The method can detect the proximity of molecules on the cell surface with nanometer-scale precision.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 2, 2021

14 new attacks on web browsers detected

Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum identified 14 new types of cross-site leak (XS-Leak) attacks on web browsers. XS-Leaks allow malicious websites to grab personal data by interacting with other sites in the background, with popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox vulnerable to multiple attacks.

Most dog breeds highly inbred

A recent study published in Canine Medicine and Genetics reveals that most dog breeds are highly inbred, with an average inbreeding rate of 25% or sharing the same genetic material with a full sibling. This high level of inbreeding contributes to increased disease and healthcare costs throughout a breed's lifespan.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCanine Medicine and Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021

Giving ugly food a chance

Researchers found that consumers are willing to pay a small discount for imperfect carrots, maxing out at 40% of misshapen carrots. Marketing messages promoting the nutritional quality and societal benefits of ugly produce were more effective in convincing consumers to buy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·DateDec 2, 2021

THE LANCET: Six different COVID-19 boosters are safe and increase immunity when given after two doses of AstraZeneca or Pfizer-BioNTech, with large variations in immune responses, UK trial shows

A UK trial shows six different COVID-19 boosters are safe and stimulate strong immune responses in people who have previously received a two-dose course of ChAdOx1-nCov19 or BNT162b2, according to the first randomised trial of boosters given after two doses. The study found varying levels of protection against COVID-19 infection and ho...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 2, 2021

Special Issue of Criminology & Public Policy examines effects of COVID-19 on the criminal justice system

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed weaknesses in the criminal justice system, highlighting issues with family and domestic violence, gang activity, and police-community interactions. Scholars from the American Society of Criminology investigate these concerns in a special issue, exploring lessons learned and policy implications.

SourceAmerican Society of Criminology·JournalCriminology & Public Policy·DateDec 2, 2021