Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 7, 2021


Insect protein has great potential to reduce the carbon footprint of European consumers

Researchers found that insect protein has great potential to reduce global warming associated with food consumption in Europe, especially when used in broiler meat production. Using edible insects or low-value food industry side stream products can increase the carbon footprint benefits of using insect protein over soybean meal protein.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateSep 7, 2021

Eliminating cash could benefit average U.S. families

A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that eliminating physical currency could benefit average Americans as long as certain taxes are lowered too. The research finds that reducing cash transactions would lead to lower tax evasion, allowing governments to reduce other taxes and boost overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalEuropean Economic Review·DateSep 7, 2021

Under loading ceramics self-heal cracks by forming kink-bands

Researchers have discovered that MAX phases ceramics can form kink-bands under loading, which can effectively stop cracks from growing and even close and heal them. This self-healing mechanism makes MAX phases suitable for a variety of advanced structural applications, including efficient jet engines and safer nuclear reactors.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateSep 7, 2021

Eco-friendly process for synthesizing organic materials developed for high-performance materials industry

Researchers at CeMM have developed an eco-friendly process to synthesize organic materials using water instead of toxic solvents, achieving cost savings of up to 25% and improving material properties. The process involves heating molecules in water under pressure to create high-performance materials with unique structures and properties.

Hopkins med news update

Researchers found that remnant cholesterol levels above 24 micrograms per deciliter were associated with a 40-50% higher risk of major heart disease or stroke. The study suggests using remnant cholesterol as an additional metric for predicting cardiovascular disease and stroke risk, in addition to LDL cholesterol levels.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateSep 7, 2021

Neanderthal genes tell us about how old our ancestors were when they had children

A new study using Neanderthal fragments suggests that generation intervals have fluctuated over the past 40,000 years, with human life history changing in response to environmental and cultural factors. The research found that Eurasian populations reproduced at a younger age than those in Europe, indicating a difference of 3-5 years in...

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2021

The warming climate is causing animals to "shapeshift"

Researchers are studying how climate change is forcing animals to evolve and adapt, with changes in beak and ear sizes reported in birds and tail length increases in mice, experts warn that these changes may have unintended ecological consequences

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 2021

HKUST and PolyU researchers develop an in-vitro vesicle formation assay to reveal mechanistic insights into the secretory pathway

Scientists from HKUST and PolyU develop an in-vitro vesicle formation assay to study cargo clients and factors that mediate vesicular trafficking. The study reveals cytosolic proteins associated with vesicle membranes, including FAM84B and PRRC1, and uncovers novel cargo proteins dependent on GTP hydrolysis.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Planned surgery in independent sector linked to shorter hospital stays and fewer readmissions than in NHS

Research finds that patients undergoing planned surgery in independent sector hospitals have shorter hospital stays and lower readmission rates than those treated in NHS hospitals. The study analyzed data from over 3.5 million patients and found significant differences in length of stay, emergency transfers, and readmissions.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Quality & Safety·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

‘ASCENT’ makes it easier to study the electrical stimulation of nerves

Researchers at Duke University have developed an open-source software platform called ASCENT that allows non-experts to create patient-specific, 3D models of nerves being electrically stimulated. This enables more accurate predictions and potentially new therapies for diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021

Why do people with diabetes develop severe COVID-19?

A study from Michigan Medicine found that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop a cytokine storm during coronavirus infection due to the enzyme SETDB2. Administering interferon beta increased SETDB2 and decreased inflammatory cytokines in diabetic mice, offering potential therapy for severe COVID-19.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Apologizing to customers after product failures can encourage repurchase, stave off lawsuits

A study by Binghamton University found that companies that express remorse in the wake of a product failure are more likely to encourage customers to repurchase from them. The researchers also discovered that remorseful statements can help stave off retaliatory actions such as lawsuits by framing messages that match consumers' natural ...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Consumer Marketing·DateSep 7, 2021

Trial finds childhood weight management program effective for Hispanic children from low-income families

A randomized clinical trial shows that a community-based weight management program delivered at health centers improved BMI in Hispanic children aged six to 12. The program, which included text messaging and connections to community resources, also reduced sugary beverage consumption, increased physical activity, and led to healthier l...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateSep 7, 2021

How do pathogens evolve novel virulence activities and why does it matter?

Scientists are still unraveling how pathogens adapt to changing conditions, including climate change and global trade. Genome sequencing and big data technologies have revealed that dramatic events like hybridization between pathogen species can lead to rapid evolution of virulence on new host plants.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 7, 2021

These fridge-free COVID-19 vaccines are grown in plants and bacteria

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed COVID-19 vaccine candidates made from plant viruses and bacteriophages, which can be stored and shipped without refrigeration. These vaccines trigger high production of neutralizing antibodies in mice, offering a potential solution for global distribution efforts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Officials leading hurricane response need ‘risk literacy’

A new study suggests that emergency management officials often lack the numeracy skills needed to make best evacuation decisions based on data. The most numerate officials provided additional evacuation times to their coastal communities, while less numerate ones gave less advance warning and over-evacuated tens of thousands more people.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Atom by atom: Scientists simulate a step in hepatitis B viral infection to help develop therapies targeted at capsid disassembly

Researchers successfully simulated the capsid disassembly step of hepatitis B viral infection at an unprecedented atomic level, identifying specific regions of the capsid protein that contribute to breakage. This high-accuracy simulation can help design drugs to interrupt these processes and prevent chronic infection.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021

Computer model may offer way to limit the spread of MRSA in hospitals

A new computer model developed by Columbia University researchers accurately predicts the likelihood of individuals being colonized with MRSA in hospital settings. The model identifies asymptomatic carriers, who are responsible for most of the spread, and suggests targeted interventions to control infections.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021

Safeguarding clean water for spaceflight missions

A team of researchers characterized different bacterial populations isolated from the International Space Station's potable water system, exploring their functional properties and long-term interactions. The study aimed to improve microbial risk assessments for human-built environments in space and on Earth.

SourceArizona State University·Journalnpj Biofilms and Microbiomes·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Simple creation of a super multi-element catalyst homogeneously containing 14 elements

Researchers developed a nanoporous super multi-element catalyst containing 14 elements through de-alloying. This alloy exhibits excellent water electrolysis properties due to the multi-element superposition effect. The breakthrough creation has potential for future development into an omnipotent and versatile catalyst.

SourceJapan Science and Technology Agency·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Bird malaria spreading via global ‘hotspots’

Researchers have identified global hotspots where bird malaria is spreading rapidly, with significant impacts on bird populations. The study found that climate and forest conditions play a crucial role in predicting infection risks, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect bird species from this deadly disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateSep 7, 2021

Stable memory test scores for Alzheimer’s patients with omega-3 intake

Researchers found that patients taking omega-3 supplements showed stable memory function compared to those in the control group. However, no significant differences were observed in biomarkers in spinal fluid samples. The study provides valuable insights into the potential effects of omega-3 on Alzheimer's disease.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 7, 2021

New study puts focus on early symptoms of Huntington’s disease

A new study from Lund University reveals that psychiatric and cognitive symptoms emerge at an early stage in Huntington's disease, highlighting the importance of targeting the emotional brain. Researchers identify changes in oligodendrocytes and white matter in the limbic system, suggesting a need for new treatment approaches.

SourceLund University·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateSep 7, 2021

Older patients benefit from cancer immunotherapies

Researchers analyzed large datasets to find biomarkers that could help select immunotherapy treatment for older patients. The analysis suggests that factors such as mutational burden and immune checkpoint protein expression are associated with increased response to immunotherapies in older patients, despite lower general immunity.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 7, 2021

Babies wanted: Males need not apply

Researchers at Kyoto University have made a groundbreaking discovery by creating functional sperm cells from mouse pluripotent stem cells. The breakthrough has significant implications for male fertility and reproduction, providing a new model for generating male germ cells in a test tube.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Stem Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

How land birds cross the open ocean

Researchers tracked five species of large land birds flying nonstop over the open ocean, exploiting wind and uplift conditions to save energy. The study reveals that many land birds rely on atmospheric support to complete their migrations, making them vulnerable to climate change.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

Some coral reefs are keeping pace with ocean warming

Researchers found that coral communities in the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) are recovering from past heatwaves, with heat-tolerant offspring repopulating the reefs. This study provides a source of hope for coral reef conservation and restoration, highlighting the potential for some reefs to keep pace with ocean warming.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Surroundings affect rhythm of an individual’s walk, according to new study

A new study by University of Bristol researchers found that people's comfort in their surroundings affects their walking patterns, with those feeling relaxed having regular stepping patterns regardless of environment. The study suggests well-designed urban environments can benefit wellbeing, concentration, and attention similar to natu...

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation completes the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history

The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation has completed the largest coral reef survey and mapping expedition in history, assessing over 1,000 reefs in 16 countries. The Global Reef Expedition provided a comprehensive dataset for coral reef conservation, highlighting the status and major threats to these ecosystems.

SourceKhaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation·TypeObservational study·DateSep 7, 2021

Analyzing marijuana legalization, use among high schoolers

A new study published in JAMA Network Open analyzed the relationship between marijuana legalization and adolescent use, finding no significant association. The researchers used updated estimates from survey data, concluding that state-level marijuana legalization does not impact teenage marijuana use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 7, 2021

Chemotherapy drug puts young children with cancer at high risk of hearing loss

A new study by UBC researchers found that chemotherapy drug cisplatin is more likely to cause hearing loss in young children, particularly those under five years old. The study, published in Cancer, shows that the hearing of these children is impacted early during treatment and is affected to a greater extent than older children.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 7, 2021

Think climate change is bad for corn? Add weeds to the equation

Researchers found that late-season weeds had a significant impact on corn yields, with minimal control resulting in an average loss of 50% and exacerbating crop losses under hot or dry conditions. The study suggests that climate change is not the only factor affecting corn yield, but rather its interaction with weeds.

Mining waste could be used as an ingredient for cheaper hydrogen fuel production

Researchers have discovered a way to use mining waste as part of a potential cheaper catalyst for hydrogen fuel production. The new catalyst triggers water splitting reactions using aluminosilicate minerals found in mining waste, which could lead to lower production costs and increased efficiency.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy and Sustainability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

History of traumatic brain injury linked to higher rates of prescription opioid use and misuse

Adults with a history of traumatic brain injury are at increased risk of using and misusing prescription opioids, with nearly 52% increased risk for use and over 65% increased risk for misuse. The findings support the 'Perfect Storm' hypothesis, suggesting that TBI increases vulnerability to pain and opioid risks.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateSep 7, 2021

Researchers identify a mechanism that can help guide the development of new STING-activating drugs using imaging

A new study found that STING-activating drugs significantly alter nucleotide metabolism in pancreas cancer cells, which can be visualized using [18F]FLT PET imaging. This provides a non-invasive tool to track the effects of these drugs and fine-tune treatments for hard-to-treat cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2021

Injuries to youth by law enforcement

A recent study found that Black youth in California have significantly higher rates of injuries caused by law enforcement than their non-Black peers. The researchers used California emergency department and hospitalization data to examine the overall rates of such incidents.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 7, 2021

Bacteria could learn to predict the future

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered that bacteria can adapt to changing environments by learning statistical regularities, enabling them to predict the future faster than traditional evolutionary methods. The study reveals a simple regulatory architecture that allows bacteria to process information and mak...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournaleLife·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 7, 2021