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Science News for September 15, 2021


Hot-band absorption of Indocyanine Green for advanced anti-Stokes fluorescence bioimaging

Scientists discovered hot-band absorption (HBA) in FDA-approved Indocyanine Green, enabling advanced anti-Stokes fluorescence bioimaging. HBA-based ASF has high thermal sensitivity and allows for IR perception, making it suitable for applications such as tumor detection and blood vessel imaging.

Cartilage resurfacing implant reduces pain, restores hip joint function in dogs

A textile-based implant containing cartilage derived from stem cells reduced pain and restored hip joint function to baseline levels in a study of dogs with moderate osteoarthritis. The implant successfully integrated into the hip joints, effectively resurfacing them and allowing the dogs to regain activity levels.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 15, 2021

World first for AI and machine learning to treat COVID-19 patients worldwide

Researchers developed an AI tool using data from hospitals across four continents to predict oxygen needs of hospital Covid patients anywhere in the world. The study achieved high-quality predictions with a sensitivity of 95% and specificity of over 88%, demonstrating the transformative power of federated learning in healthcare.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

Heterogeneous development of children with Congenital Zika Syndrome-associated microcephaly

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that children born with congenital Zika Virus-related microcephaly have varying levels of neurodevelopmental impairment. The researchers used a routine neurological assessment to track the children's development, revealing differences in cognitive and motor skills. The findings suggest that HINE ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2021

Subthreshold depression in adolescents can be successfully treated with psychological interventions

A new study found that psychological interventions can have a significant effect on the treatment of subthreshold depression in adolescents. The meta-analysis showed that approximately eight adolescents need to be treated to see one more positive outcome than no treatment, with moderate effects size.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Are there DBPs in that cup of tea?

A recent study measured 60 DBPs in three types of tea and found that brewed tea contained significantly lower levels of DBPs than tap water. However, the researchers also identified 15 previously uncharacterized compounds that likely form from chlorine reactions with natural precursors in tea leaves.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 15, 2021

Scientists from Pusan National University emphasize the health benefits of ginseng

Researchers from Pusan National University have compiled a comprehensive review of ginsenosides, the main component of ginseng, which can prevent inflammation, diabetes, and cancer. The study provides insights into how to improve ginsenoside production through chemical and enzymatic treatments, as well as microbial action.

SourcePusan National University·JournalCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 15, 2021

Municipal takeover in Michigan: A rational, apolitical response to financial distress, or something else?

A study of Michigan cities under state emergency management found that the likelihood of takeover was not driven solely by financial distress, but also by factors such as race and economic status. Changes to drinking water systems were common in takeovers, often leading to poor water quality and increased bills.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalState and Local Government Review·DateSep 15, 2021

Have we detected dark energy? Cambridge scientists say it’s a possibility

Researchers at the University of Cambridge suggest that unexplained results from the XENON1T experiment could be attributed to dark energy, rather than dark matter. The study proposes a physical model to explain the findings, which may have originated from dark energy particles produced in the Sun's strong magnetic fields.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPhysical Review D·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Many mothers may have delayed or abandoned plans for additional children because of COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that nearly half of New York City mothers who were trying to become pregnant again before the COVID-19 pandemic began stopped in the first few months of the outbreak. Additionally, one-third of women who had been thinking about becoming pregnant but hadn't yet started trying said they were no longer considering it.

Roads have far-reaching impact on chimpanzees

A recent study found that roads can extend the impact zone for western chimpanzees by an average of 17.2 km from major roads and 5.4 km from minor roads. This results in a significant decrease in population density, with the species facing mounting pressure from infrastructure expansion.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Rising temperatures reshape when and how much people get outdoors on public lands

Rising temperatures are projected to decrease outdoor recreation during summers by 18% over the next 30 years, but increase winter recreation by 12% in mid-century. This shift may lead to a decline in popular winter sports like downhill skiing and an increase in winter mountain biking.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

DNA researchers develop critical shortcut to detect and identify known and emerging pathogens

Researchers have developed a sophisticated new tool to detect and identify rare and unknown viruses and potentially deadly bacterial pathogens. The algorithm helps isolate DNA sequences shared among related organisms, enabling faster detection and identification of pathogens in clinical or wildlife settings.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCell Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

Classifying EGFR mutations by structure and function offers better way to match non-small cell lung cancer patients to treatments

A study identifies four novel subgroups of EGFR mutations that predict drug response, offering a more accurate framework to match patients with targeted therapies. The findings reveal that certain mutations respond better to specific classes of TKIs, providing new clinical opportunities for approved treatments.

Further evidence that vitamin D might protect against severe COVID-19 disease and death

Researchers found that ambient UVB radiation before COVID-19 infection was strongly associated with reduced hospitalization and death. The study suggests that vitamin D may protect against severe COVID-19 disease and death, particularly in individuals who do not produce enough vitamin D through sun exposure.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Coconut tree cloning breakthrough will help propagation and preservation

Researchers at KU Leuven and the Alliance of Bioversity International have developed a method to multiply coconut trees faster and store them more efficiently in gene banks. This technique allows for the preservation of coconut shoots for eternity through cryopreservation, ensuring the long-term conservation of genetic diversity.

Study reveals rates of the most common form of liver cancer are rising in rural areas while slowing in urban areas

The most common form of liver cancer is on the rise in rural areas, with men aged 60-69 and non-Hispanic Blacks disproportionately affected. Urban areas, however, have seen a decline in HCC rates since 2013, including among younger individuals and certain ethnic groups.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Scientists pretend to be Neanderthals to explore how they caught birds in caves for food

Researchers used a 'role-play' approach to study how Neanderthals caught choughs in caves. They found that the birds were vulnerable to artificial light and could be caught using nets or by hand. The findings suggest that catching birds was another skill of Neanderthals, which is surprising given their intelligence and adaptability.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Stem cells model genetic risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers used human-induced stem cells carrying different versions of the APOE gene to study their interaction with neurons and astrocytes. The study found that astrocytes carrying the AD-associated APOE4 gene released more cholesterol, which led to increased beta-amyloid production in neurons.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

COVID-19 slows birth rate in US, Europe

A new study found that COVID-19 led to a significant decline in births across high-income countries, with the strongest declines observed in southern Europe, while northern Europe showed little impact. The researchers attribute this variation to differences in economic disruption and social support policies.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘optimal strategies’ computer model that could significantly reduce future COVID-19 infections and deaths

A team of NTU Singapore scientists developed a predictive computer model called NSGA-II, which proposed strategies to reduce COVID-19 infections and deaths by an average of 72%. The model recommended timely and country-specific advice on interventions such as home quarantines and social distancing measures.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalSustainable Cities and Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 15, 2021

More effective partnerships between medics and dance professionals needed to discover the benefits of dance to health, report finds

Researchers found that dance impacts health in key areas, including sense of identity, belonging, and self-worth. They call for more collaboration with dancers and co-research with participants to better capture the benefits of dance on its own terms.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 15, 2021

Combining melatonin with vancomycin reduces kidney failure

A study found that adding melatonin to vancomycin treatment significantly reduces acute kidney injury in hospitalized patients, alleviating oxidative stress and restoring kidney function. The findings could lead to larger therapeutic breakthroughs and pave the way for further clinical studies.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

New research supports stricter social and economic mandates to reduce COVID-19 spread

A new study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that stricter non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as policy restrictions on business operations and indoor mask mandates, are associated with reduced COVID-19 cases in Ontario. The study also suggests that increases in workplace attendance correlate with higher case counts.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCanadian Public Policy·DateSep 15, 2021

A statistical fix for archaeology's dating problem

Archaeologists have developed a new statistical approach to overcome the challenges of radiocarbon dating, allowing for more accurate population estimates. The new method uses Bayesian reasoning and flexible probability models to combine radiocarbon dates with additional archaeological information.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Marching band kids at risk from heat illness

A comprehensive study found that marching band students are at risk of heat-related illnesses due to their physical demands and lack of protective measures. The study analyzed news reports of heat illnesses among band members from 1990 to 2020, revealing nearly 400 cases, including hospitalizations and heat stroke.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalInternational Journal of Biometeorology·DateSep 15, 2021

No, stress isn’t always bad. Here’s how to harness it

University of Rochester psychologists train adolescents and young adults to reinterpret their stress response as adaptive, leading to reduced anxiety, improved test scores, and healthier coping mechanisms. The study finds that 'good stress' mindset resets help students perform better under pressure and stay enrolled in classes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Test screening for leading infectious cause of hearing loss in babies feasible and well-received

A new saliva test for congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) has been shown to be feasible and well-received by parents, with high uptake and accuracy rates. The test could lead to early diagnosis and treatment of cCMV-related hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalJournal of Paediatrics and Child Health·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2021

Planets form in organic soups with different ingredients

Astronomers have mapped out the chemicals inside planetary nurseries with unprecedented detail, revealing dozens of molecules within five protoplanetary disks. The locations of these molecules vary dramatically across each disk, resulting in diverse chemical environments that may impact planetary formation and potential for life.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·DateSep 15, 2021

Aquarium-led landmark study finds some shark species are tougher than others when it comes to surviving catch and release

A new five-year study found that some shark species, like sandbar and tiger sharks, have low mortality rates after being caught and released, while others, like blacktip and spinner sharks, face higher mortality rates. The study's findings are crucial for sustainably managing shark populations.

SourceNew England Aquarium·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 15, 2021

Pregnancy intentions following COVID-19 outbreak

The study examines changes in pregnancy intentions among women following the COVID-19 outbreak. Women's reproductive healthcare and family planning were significantly impacted by the pandemic, with many experiencing increased stress, anxiety, and decreased access to reproductive health services.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 15, 2021

Coconut tree cloning breakthrough will help propagation and preservation

Scientists at KU Leuven developed a method to multiply coconut trees faster and store them more efficiently, preserving genetic diversity and meeting the demand for coconuts. The technique allows thousands of new specimens with the same genetic profile to be obtained, offering potential for coconut plantations worldwide.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Atmosphere and caring teachers at special schools more important to parents of children with SEN than educational standards, study shows

A study found that parents prioritize atmosphere and teacher approach over academic standards when selecting a special school for their child. High-quality inclusive education provision means a sense of belonging, social acceptance, and individualized curriculum. Only a minority reported experiencing 'hard choice' due to limited options.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEuropean Journal of Special Needs Education·TypeSurvey·DateSep 15, 2021

An explosive Cosmic Chinese Conundrum - a hot detective story from a very cold case: HKU astrophysicists solve a 900-year-old mystery, giving an ancient Chinese guest star of AD 1181 a place to stay and rest

HKU astrophysicists identify historical supernova of AD 1181 with recent discovery of 'Parker's star' and its surrounding nebula Pa30. The team found the event matches ancient Chinese reports within 3.5 degrees, providing a firm historical basis for the rare Type Iax designation.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 15, 2021

Astrophysicists identify large reservoirs of precursor molecules necessary for life in the birthplaces of planets

Researchers found significant reservoirs of large organic molecules in protoplanetary disks, providing a potential pathway for life to form elsewhere. The presence of these molecules suggests basic chemical conditions that led to life on Earth could exist more widely across the Galaxy.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

Lasers light up neutron generation for radiography

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a laser-driven neutron source that can generate fast neutrons in short bursts, enabling rapid imaging. The technique was used to detect hazardous substances in batteries and images materials like boron carbide.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 15, 2021

The COVID-19 virus rapidly evolves to higher infectivity during in vitro growth, which may be a step toward lower virulence

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that SARS-CoV-2 viruses grown in successive generations exhibit increased infectivity, binding to heparan sulfate, and reduced virulence. The study suggests that evolved strains may be used as a basis for development of stable live attenuated vaccines.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Virology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Married couples in supportive relationships felt significantly less stressed while watching horror movie clips with their partner than without, as measured by pupil dilation

Married couples in supportive relationships showed a significant decrease in stress levels when watching horror movie clips with their partner compared to alone. The study found that spousal emotional support and relationship quality have a buffering effect on pupillary response to horror movies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Three state and federal grants fund campaign to encourage COVID-19 vaccination among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

A campaign is being launched to encourage COVID-19 vaccination among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in New York State. The Einstein-Montefiore team has received grants from the state and federal governments to create tailored messages and content to counter vaccine misinformation and promote vaccination.