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Science News for November 17, 2021


Did the US COVID-19 vaccine strategy work?

The CDC's four-tiered vaccine prioritization strategy outperformed most approaches in reducing deaths and cases, while some optimizations could improve outcomes. The study found that prioritizing healthcare workers and individuals under 16 was optimal, but strategies focusing on comorbidities were also effective.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 17, 2021

New technique improves conversion of carbon dioxide into liquid fuels

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new approach to modify the surface of copper catalysts, improving the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels. The technique involves coating the copper with thin films of ionomers, which steer the reaction towards generating carbon-rich products.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Dartmouth study reveals flaws in statistical modeling approach used in health services research

A Dartmouth study found that the stratified approach to statistical modeling in health services research can lead to inaccurate conclusions about disparities and inequities in healthcare. Joint modeling, on the other hand, provides a more accurate estimate of physician treatment patterns across different patient types.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalHealth Services Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

Henry ford study shows non-opioids provide effective pain relief after knee surgery

A Henry Ford Health System study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that a novel opioid-free pain management protocol provided the same pain relief for patients as common types of prescription opioids. This approach aims to reduce opioid misuse and promote more effective pain management after ACL knee reconstruc...

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalThe American Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 17, 2021

Powering up next-generation energy storage

An international research team led by Jennifer L. Schaefer has analyzed the potential of magnesium-ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes in two separate battery systems. The study found that these electrolytes exhibit higher thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, making them ...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Matters of the heart

A team of UB researchers, led by Cristian Cañestro and Alfonso Ferrández-Roldán, have deciphered a new evolutionary scenario that sheds light on the evolution of our phylum. By studying the gene loss in appendicularian tunicates, they revealed that massive losses of genes eased the transition to a free pelagic lifestyle.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Glass as stable as crystal : homogeneity leads to stability

Researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science used computer simulations to study the aging mechanism that can cause an amorphous glassy material to turn into a crystal. By removing tiny irregularities in local densities, they found that it prevents atomic avalanches that trigger ordered structure formation.

Veterans with mild traumatic brain injury show premature cognitive decline, in some ways comparable to that of people with early Parkinson's Disease and significantly worse than that of healthy non-veterans

Young veterans with mTBI experience premature cognitive decline in specific domains, matching elder normative scores and early-stage Parkinson's patients. The study highlights the significant negative impact of mTBI on cognitive function compared to healthy non-veterans.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 17, 2021

A way in: Newly-identified state in bacteria has major implications for antibiotic treatment and resistant strains

Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem discover a 'disrupted' state in bacteria that resists current antibiotics, requiring new pharmacological agents to combat. The breakthrough model predicts bacterial population responses to treatments, offering avenues for better treatments against cancer cells.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Exploring links between financial knowledge, age and gender in Japan

Research in Japan found a link between financial knowledge, age, and gender, suggesting potential policy targets to improve financial health. While men had higher financial literacy, women reported more sound financial behaviors, indicating that policies may need to focus on supporting women's financial decision-making.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateNov 17, 2021

Air pollution does not increase the risk of getting infected but does increase the risk of getting sick from COVID-19

A study found that long-term exposure to air pollution increases the risk of developing COVID-19 symptoms, especially among older men and those living in poverty. However, no association was found between infection and exposure to air pollutants.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Should all babies have their genome sequenced at birth?

Experts debate whether newborn genome sequencing should be routine, with some arguing it can save lives and be cost-effective. A phased rollout is advocated, with genomic information disclosed sequentially at appropriate ages. The rollout requires data quality improvement and informed consent.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 17, 2021

MDI Biological Laboratory scientist advances prospect of regeneration in humans

A recent study by James Godwin, Ph.D. has identified the liver as a primary reservoir for pro-regenerative macrophages essential to limb regeneration in axolotls. The research paves the way for regenerative medicine therapies in humans, potentially treating diseases like heart and lung disease with scar-free healing.

SourceMDI Biological Laboratory·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

TRIUMF's IRIS provides a glimpse of deformation in helium-8

Researchers at TRIUMF's IRIS group have discovered an unexpected deformation in the nucleus of helium-8, which challenges current understanding of nuclear shell dynamics. The study provides a unique energy fingerprint of the reaction products, revealing a significant deformation in the arrangement of outer neutrons.

SourceTRIUMF·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Methane from carbon dioxide

Researchers have developed a highly active and stable nickel-carbon catalyst for the light-driven methanation of CO2, converting it into methane with high efficiency. The new catalyst, named Ni@C, demonstrated a high rate of conversion and selectivity under artificial UV, visible, and IR light.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Using rocks to hammer out a connection between visual gaze and motor skills learning

A new study published in Communications Biology found a significant connection between visual gaze and motor skills learning, as participants learned to make stone tools through video training. The researchers discovered that the connection evolved over time, with certain phases of learning being more closely tied to gaze patterns.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

Sports leagues can fight climate change with lockdown-era schedules, Concordia research shows

Concordia researcher Seth Wynes estimates that permanent adoption of lockdown-era schedules could cut carbon dioxide emissions from team travel by 22%, reducing overall annual emissions. Implementing these changes could also have co-benefits, such as reduced injuries and improved player rest.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

Why drinking water needs monitoring for HIV drugs

Researchers emphasize the need for monitoring drinking water for HIV medications, as they can contaminate rivers and streams through wastewater. The lack of regulation on pharmaceuticals in wastewater treatment plants poses a significant challenge in ensuring safe drinking water.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalEnvironmental Nanotechnology Monitoring & Management·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

New knowledge about our Earth’s most important biochemical reaction: A step towards increasing CO2 uptake in plants

A team of researchers at the University of Copenhagen has identified a group of proteins, called CURT1, that control the development of green leaves in plants. This discovery sheds new light on photosynthesis, which is essential for life on Earth and could lead to more efficient CO2 absorption.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2021

Fasting-mimicking diet is safe, may modulate metabolism and boost antitumor immunity in cancer patients

A fasting-mimicking diet was found to be safe and biologically active in cancer patients, with potential benefits for modulation of metabolism and enhancement of antitumor immunity. The study demonstrated significant reductions in blood glucose and growth factor concentrations, as well as enhancements in intratumor T-cell infiltration.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Discovery·DateNov 17, 2021

Exploding and weeping ceramics provide path to new shape-shifting material

Scientists have created a reversible shape memory ceramic material by combining different phases, overcoming the brittleness of traditional ceramics. This breakthrough has potential applications in high-temperature or corrosive environments, enabling new ferroelectric ceramics that can generate electricity from small temperature differ...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

Making the wait less arduous

Researchers found that children who were described as calm tended to play calmly, while active toddlers played actively, regulating their negative feelings. Toddlers also learned distraction strategies by observing adults playing while waiting, regardless of the adult's temperament.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalChild Development·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Chemistry breakthrough leads way to more sustainable pharmaceuticals

Scientists at the University of Bath have developed a new method for synthesizing primary amines, used in over half of all pharmaceuticals, significantly reducing energy usage and chemical waste. This breakthrough aims to speed up drug discovery by making it easier to synthesize new chemical structures for testing.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Natural feedback or human activities? A new study points to agricultural and industrial sources as the main cause to the soaring atmospheric methane

A new study using methane stable isotopes and thousands of emissions scenarios confirms that agricultural emissions are the primary driver of atmospheric methane increases. Human activities account for 60% of global methane emissions, with significant contributions from agriculture, landfills, and oil and gas industries.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateNov 17, 2021

Children with CMV infection by age 1 more likely to develop tuberculosis in childhood

Infants who contract cytomegalovirus (CMV) before age 12 months are at a significantly higher risk of developing TB later in their childhood. The study found that babies infected with CMV were more than three times more likely to develop TB after age 1 than children who had not become infected with CMV.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

Incontinence and incontinence-associated dermatitis have serious negative health and financial outcomes—Massive, multi-site study shows

A massive multi-site study reveals that incontinence and IAD are associated with significantly higher healthcare costs, longer hospital stays and poorer patient outcomes. Incontinent patients have a 4.7 times greater risk of sacral pressure injuries compared to continent patients.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Wound Ostomy and Continence Nursing·DateNov 17, 2021

Prior weight loss, history of bone stress injury, and eating behaviors associated with dietary supplement use in preadolescent endurance runners

A new study found that preadolescent endurance runners who experience weight loss, have a history of bone stress injury, or follow a vegetarian diet are more likely to use dietary supplements. The study discovered that supplement use was associated with lower food intake and energy deficiency.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

"Alien" invasions and the need for planetary biosecurity

The article highlights the dangers of biological contamination from space travel, citing examples of bacteria resistant to ionizing radiation and disinfectants found in NASA 'clean rooms'. Researchers propose the use of invasion science to address this threat, leveraging insights on epidemiology, rapid evolution, and early detection.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 17, 2021

Functional precision medicine using drug sensitivity testing enables tailoring of therapy for leukemia patients

A functional precision medicine study demonstrates that treatment selection based on results from drug sensitivity testing can be clinically useful in patients with aggressive hematological cancer. The approach combines deep molecular profiling with comprehensive drug sensitivity testing to advance the therapy decision-making system.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCancer Discovery·DateNov 17, 2021

Warning over antibiotic-resistant bacteria

A study by Anglia Ruskin University has identified potentially dangerous Pseudomonas bacteria in 21% of wild bird faeces collected from locations near the River Cam. The bacteria, which can be passed on to humans through cross-contamination, were resistant to multiple antibiotics.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateNov 17, 2021

“Can you show me how to calm myself down?” Observing adults can help toddlers regulate their emotions

Toddlers increased their use of distraction as a mechanism to calm themselves after observing others. Toddlers also benefited from observing both calm and active distraction strategies, regardless of temperament or play preferences. Observing strangers can help toddlers develop emotional regulation skills.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

Autism diagnosis by 2.5 years of age leads to dramatic improvements in social symptoms as compared to those diagnosed later in life, Ben-Gurion University researchers and colleagues find

A new study published in Autism highlights the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Children diagnosed before 2.5 years old showed considerable improvements in core social symptoms compared to those diagnosed later in life. Early intervention is critical, emphasizing the need for u...

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAutism·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

Maternal caregiving may reverse effects of stress during pregnancy on newborns

Research suggests that high stress levels in pregnant women are associated with increased cortisol responses in infants. However, sensitive caregiving by mothers after birth can mitigate these effects. The study's findings highlight the importance of postnatal interventions to support children whose mothers experienced prenatal adversity.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateNov 17, 2021

Study finds infants later diagnosed with autism show reduced social communication before their first birthday

A new study documents that observable social-communication differences for infants with ASD unfold by 9 months, pointing to a critical window for targeted intervention. Infants with ASD exhibit significantly fewer social and early speech skills than their typically-developing peers at 9 months of age.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

New holographic camera sees the unseen with high precision

Researchers at Northwestern University developed a new high-resolution camera that can see hidden objects by indirectly scattering coherent light. The device overcomes limitations of existing NLoS imaging technologies with high spatial and temporal resolution, small probing area, and large angular field of view.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Sloan Kettering Institute researchers discover one way genetic mutations occur during formation of eggs and sperm

Researchers used mutant mice to study meiosis, which forms eggs and sperm, revealing that breaks in DNA can lead to unanticipated types of harmful mutations. The study found that when there are too many double-strand breaks, they may not be repaired properly, leading to potentially severe mutations.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

New group of antibacterial molecules identified

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a new group of small antibacterial compounds that inhibit the formation of bacterial cell walls, showing promise against antibiotic-resistant strains. The molecules work by binding to lipid II, a crucial molecule for bacterial cell wall construction.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Genetic changes in Bronze Age Southern Iberia

A new study analyzing ancient Iberian genomes uncovers genetic shifts and social transformations during the Copper Age to Bronze Age transition. The data suggests that incoming steppe-related ancestry mixed with local Iberian Chalcolithic ancestry, but the paternally inherited Y chromosome lineages show a complete turnover.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·TypeCase study·DateNov 17, 2021

When the gut's internal ecosystem goes awry, could an ancient if gross-sounding treatment make it right?

Research using ring-tailed lemurs shows that fecal microbiota transplants can stabilize and restore a healthy gut microbiome after antibiotic use. The study confirms the effectiveness of this ancient treatment for reducing the negative effects of antibiotics on the gut, which can cause severe diarrhea and abdominal pain.

SourceDuke University·JournalAnimal Microbiome·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Fatal heart attack or stroke could be first sign of CVD in some smokers

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that smoking may be the first sign of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in some individuals. The research, which analyzed data from nine long-term cohort studies, discovered that fatal or non-fatal heart attacks and strokes were more common among smokers, particula...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateNov 17, 2021

Bacteria as climate heroes

Acetobacterium woodii bacteria can efficiently metabolize CO2 into formate, providing a sustainable alternative to oil-based products. This process can be genetically modified to produce ethanol or lactic acid, enabling the recycling of CO2 and carbon monoxide.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalMetabolic Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

After comparing 17.5 million strategies, researchers validate CDC’s vaccine rollout recommendation

Iowa State University researchers validated the CDC's COVID-19 vaccine rollout strategy, which prioritized frontline essential workers, older age groups, and individuals with underlying health factors. The model showed that this approach was highly effective in curbing mortality while keeping case numbers at bay.

SourceIowa State University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 17, 2021

Persistent, distressing psychotic-like experiences associated with impairment in youth

A new study found that children with persistent, distressing PLEs show impaired cognition, higher levels of psychopathology, and delayed developmental milestone achievement compared to those without these experiences. The researchers highlight the need for early intervention and support for youth who report these experiences.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 17, 2021

When older couples are close together, their heart rates synchronize

A study from the University of Illinois examines how spatial proximity affects relationship dynamics in older adult couples. The researchers found that when partners are close to each other, their heart rates synchronize in a lead-lag relationship, indicating a complex interplay between physiological responses and interaction patterns.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2021

12-year-old children consume on average 8 1/4 hours of media daily, with media multitasking associated with worse mental health outcomes but videogaming associated with better mental health outcomes

A study of 8-12 year olds reveals that media multitasking is associated with worse mental health outcomes, while videogaming shows a positive correlation. The research highlights the importance of balancing screen time with other activities for children's overall well-being.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 17, 2021

A CARE-ing route to advanced nanoelectronics

Osaka University researchers developed an ultra-thin film of magnetite with superior crystallinity and conductive properties, overcoming challenges in spintronics technology. The discovery enables the film to undergo a temperature-dependent resistivity change, crucial for implementation in quantum computing technologies.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Abbott's research review highlights five HMO prebiotics in breast milk that may benefit digestive, immune and cognitive development in complementary ways

A review by Abbott researchers highlights five HMOs in breast milk that may provide support for digestive health, the immune system and cognitive development. The study suggests these five core Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) could help influence overall brain health due to their impact on the gut-brain axis.

SourceAbbott·JournalNutrients·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

Felsic volcanism in south China drove the end-Permian mass extinction

A study published in Science Advances reveals that felsic volcanism in South China drove the end-Permian mass extinction, with extreme elemental copper enrichment and light isotopic compositions indicating large-scale eruptions near the studied outcrops. This finding strengthens the case against the Siberian Traps as the sole trigger f...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 17, 2021

Brief 5:2 diet advice is as effective as traditional GP advice, but people like it better, according to new study

A clinical trial found that long-term weight loss was similar for those who received 5:2 diet or standard weight management advice, with 18% and 15% of participants losing at least five per cent of their body weight. However, the 5:2 diet group was more likely to recommend the intervention to others or continue with it.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 17, 2021

Experts call for continued use of personal protective and social measures alongside COVID-19 vaccination

Handwashing, mask wearing, and physical distancing are effective in reducing COVID-19 incidence, with a 53% reduction seen with mask wearing and a 25% reduction with physical distancing. However, more stringent measures like lockdowns need further assessment to weigh their potential negative effects on general populations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 17, 2021

Virtual fluid for the description of interfacial effects in metallic materials

Physicists at the University of Stuttgart have developed a novel computer simulation strategy using a virtual fluid that allows for the calculation of electrostatic interactions within any material. This approach enables the study of wetting transitions and phase transitions of ionic liquids at metal surfaces, shedding light on unusual...

SourceUniversitaet Stuttgart·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Researchers uncover potential way to protect against diet-induced obesity and inflammation

Researchers have discovered a protein called CPEB4 that plays a key role in diet-induced obesity. Blocking CPEB4 expression in mice protected them from weight gain, inflammation, and improved their microbiome health. The findings could lead to new treatments for diet-induced obesity and its associated cancer risks.

SourceWorldwide Cancer Research·JournalMolecular Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

No ohmic loss! Electromagnetic zero-index metamaterials

Scientists design a special metamaterial that achieves 'zero index' with infinite effective spatial wavelength, overcoming limitations of short spatial wavelength in the optical regime. DCZIMs offer advantages over other mechanisms, including no ohmic losses and scalable fabricating using standard planar processes.

New clinical practice guideline on fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) to help guide asthma treatment

The American Thoracic Society has published a clinical practice guideline on the use of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) to guide asthma treatment. The guideline recommends using FeNO in addition to usual care for patients with asthma whose treatment is being considered, suggesting this may be eligible for the measurement.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 17, 2021

A "compass" in the brain to navigate thoughts

Researchers at the University of Trento discovered brain cells acting as a compass for navigating conceptual spaces, similar to those found in physical environments. These 'head-direction cells' signal direction even when movement occurs in abstract spaces, suggesting a complementary mechanism for conceptual navigation.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 17, 2021