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Science News for September 8, 2021


Lasting immunity and protection from new single-shot, room-temperature stable COVID-19 vaccine

A novel gene-based COVID-19 vaccine leveraging an adeno-associated viral vector platform was highly effective in eliciting neutralizing antibody responses and cellular immunity from a single dose. The vaccine provided near-complete protection against SARS-CoV-2 challenge in nonhuman primates for at least 11 months.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Houser to receive funding for doctoral dissertation research in economics: Asymmetric Shocks In Contests: Theory and Experiment

Daniel E. Houser and Jian Song will investigate how the distribution of random shocks affects effort provisions in rank-tournament participants using economic theory and laboratory experiments. The research aims to develop an improved understanding of why and how people make decisions when facing unlikely but possible bad outcomes.

500-million-year-old fossil represents rare discovery of ancient animal in North America

Researchers uncover a 500-million-year-old 'worm-like' fossil, expanding the number of worm-like species known from this time period in North America. The discovery provides new clues about prehistoric environments and ecologies, helping scientists better understand the diversity of ancient animals during the Cambrian explosion.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalActa Palaeontologica Polonica·DateSep 8, 2021

Using electricity to give chemistry a boost

Researchers have successfully produced iron-based Metal Organic Framework (MOF) materials directly using renewable electricity at room temperature, overcoming challenges in scalability and environmental friendliness. The new method is 96% efficient and enables the creation of advanced MOF sensors.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 8, 2021

New way to pull lithium from water could increase supply, efficiency

A new research method developed by an interdisciplinary team of engineers and scientists has the potential to significantly increase lithium supply and reduce costs for devices that rely on it. The technique involves extracting lithium from contaminated water using precise membranes, which can improve efficiency and simplify the extrac...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2021

Mapping the evolution of materials

Lehigh University researchers are developing a model to understand the impact of grain growth on material properties. The project aims to create new materials informatics methods, innovative stochastic differential equations, and models of grain growth to improve material performance and reliability.

A T-cell power-up for tumor treatments

Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering have discovered a way to boost the effectiveness of CAR T-cell therapy for treating solid tumors, including breast and melanoma. By engineering CAR T-cells to produce an enzyme called adenosine deaminase, they break down an immune-suppressive microenvironment, allowing cancer-killing cel...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

New study on COVID-19 vaccinations in the largest US cities finds stark inequities

A new study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health reveals stark racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic inequities in COVID-19 vaccination rates across neighborhoods in the largest US cities. High-vaccination neighborhoods were predominantly white with fewer people of color, higher incomes, and lower poverty rates.

Natural killer cells coordinate wound healing

Researchers discovered that natural killer cells play a crucial role in wound healing by accelerating blood vessel growth. However, this process increases the risk of bacterial infections. The study suggests harnessing killer cells to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria and finding a balance between wound healing and immune defense.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Forest fires linked to tens of thousands of avoidable deaths

A new study quantifies the contribution of agricultural and forest fires to poor air quality in Southeast Asia, finding that preventing these fires could reduce premature deaths by an estimated 59,000 annually. The region's poorest communities are disproportionately exposed to air pollution from these fires.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalGeoHealth·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 8, 2021

Flies in a VR world reveal how vision affects locomotion

Researchers used fruit flies in a virtual reality setting to show that vision influences body movements by tuning postural adjustments as a preventative measure. Without vision, the limb control systems respond to balance and posture perturbations, but when vision is available, the behavioral goal of walking straight takes precedence.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Soft components for the next generation of soft robotics

Researchers developed electrically-driven soft valves to control hydraulic soft actuators, enabling faster and more powerful control of macro- and small-scale hydraulic actuators. The breakthrough allows for unprecedented motion control of soft robots with internal volume ranging from hundreds of microliters to tens of milliliters.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2021

Novel AR film developed to maximize the transmission of infrared light

A research team from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science has developed a novel antireflective (AR) film using sol-gel technology, maximizing the transmission of infrared light on a CdSe substrate. The film shows excellent high and low temperature resistance, reducing reflectivity by up to 27% in a wide band.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalColloids and Surfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Does accountability always work? Workplace bias suppression can be difficult to sustain, study shows

A new study from the University of Notre Dame found that efforts to counteract biases in the workplace tend to wane over time, even with high accountability. The researchers discovered that when accountability changes, biased decisions are more likely to be sustained. Increasing accountability may not be effective if a person initially...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateSep 8, 2021

After 10,000 years of inbreeding, endangered flightless parrots from New Zealand are in surprisingly good genetic health

Despite 10,000 years of inbreeding, the kākāpō genome sequencing reveals that the species has lost potentially deleterious mutations and now carries fewer harmful mutations than extinct mainland populations. This finding suggests that natural selection may have facilitated genetic purging in small populations.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Genomics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 8, 2021

Aptasensors helpful in detection of mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that contaminate agricultural products, posing severe health risks. Aptasensors utilize aptamers to specifically detect mycotoxins with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for fast and reliable detection in field settings.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalChemosensors·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 8, 2021

Researchers show low uptake of only FDA-authorized monoclonal antibody treatments for COVID-19

Despite their effectiveness in preventing severe symptoms and hospitalization, fewer than 70,000 patients received monoclonal antibody treatments out of over 200 million Americans diagnosed with COVID-19. The low uptake may be attributed to stockpiling, limited distribution, barriers to access, or hesitancy among providers and patients.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

The growing threat of wildfires in America

A study by Matthew Auer highlights the need for community-led wildfire protection plans to address growing threats, particularly among low-income households. These plans can provide educational resources, fire-resistant home construction, and access to funding.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalSustainability Science·DateSep 8, 2021

T cell therapy alone or combined with cancer drug nivolumab is safe and persistent in attacking Hodgkin's lymphoma cells

A new study suggests that T cell therapy alone or combined with cancer drug nivolumab is safe and persistent in attacking Hodgkin's lymphoma cells. The treatment showed promising results in patients with relapsed or refractory HL, offering a potential option for those who do not respond to checkpoint inhibitors.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalBlood Advances·DateSep 8, 2021

Environmental conditions of early humans in Europe

A recent study reconstructed environmental conditions in Europe during early human occupation, revealing a range of climates and vegetation types. The research suggests that early humans preferred sites with mild climates and wooded environments, but later phases saw absences from areas with severe conditions.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

Packages to simplify deep renovation of buildings

A European project developed standard solutions for energy refurbishment, considering various climate zones. These packages include prefabricated façades, decentralized ventilation systems, and smart ceiling fans to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort. Pilot sites showed significant savings and improvements in tenant well-being.

SourceEurac Research·TypeCase study·DateSep 8, 2021

RICCA: A ‘Lab-free, Lab-quality’ testing of RNA viruses to prepare for next pandemic

The Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology has developed a 'lab-free, lab-quality' testing method for RNA viruses called RICCA, which can detect low copy numbers of virus RNA directly from saliva without laboratory processing. This method has the potential to decentralize COVID-19 molecular diagnosis in developing countries.

Many popular nutrition apps lack behavior change content features

Top-performing diet and nutrition apps often track dietary intake, anthropometrics, and physical activity but lack behavior change features. A new study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that premium versions offered more features than free ones, but these did not significantly impact app ratings or user engagement.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateSep 8, 2021

Nearly 20 percent of patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma contracted COVID-19: A case study from a Barcelona hospital

A recent case study from a Barcelona hospital found that nearly 20% of patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma contracted COVID-19 during the pandemic. The study revealed a 75% mortality rate among these patients, highlighting the severity of the impact of COVID-19 on this vulnerable population.

As dementia’s toll rises, new study shows major gaps in who gets care that could help them remain at home

A new study highlights significant disparities in dementia care availability by gender, race, ethnicity, education level, and family structure. The findings emphasize the importance of family caregivers, with those having available spouse or adult child support being less likely to move into nursing homes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

How confined protons migrate

Protons seem to migrate faster than other ions in free aqueous solutions, but individual protons do not really move. In confined spaces, protons get stuck in an oscillatory state due to confinement effects and acid concentration.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 8, 2021

New substance classes for nanomaterials: Nano spheres and diamond slivers made of silicon and germanium

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt and Bonn have synthesized molecular nano spheres made of silicon atoms, known as silafulleranes, which can encapsulate chloride ions. The discovery of these new compounds may lead to improved applications in electronics, solar cells, and batteries.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Patients treated by mobile stroke units had better outcomes, according to study published in NEJM

Patients treated by mobile stroke units had faster anti-clot medication delivery and less disability at 90 days compared to standard ambulance care, according to a study published in NEJM. The trial, which enrolled over 1,500 patients, showed that MSU-treated patients were more likely to receive tPA and have better mortality rates.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 8, 2021

Experience Yellowstone’s geysers ‘in concert’

Scientists at Anglia Ruskin University have created a new way to experience Yellowstone's geysers through classical music. By sonifying the physical characteristics of the geothermal landscape, they've turned vibrations into melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. The result is an evolving musical representation of the earth, water, and steam.

Long-distance relationships for endangered corals

Researchers successfully used cryopreserved sperm to fertilize coral eggs from hundreds of miles away, demonstrating the reproductive compatibility of distant coral colonies. The technique, known as assisted gene flow, has potential as a conservation tool for endangered corals and could accelerate their adaptation to climate change.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Recipe for success: Reputations start from inner circles​

A recent research on electric dance music DJs found that those with a distinct genre identity and network positions combining brokerage and cohesion tend to have higher social standing. The study analyzed playlist data from 815 DJs and found that focused musical identity is correlated with social standing among EDM DJs.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

Stem cell model for early human embryo development

Researchers at KAUST have developed an in vitro model of early human embryogenesis using extended pluripotent stem cells, overcoming ethical concerns. The model, called EPS-blastoids, is a faithful representation of the earliest moments of human development and holds promise for studying developmental defects and regenerative medicine.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalCell Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Inspired by metamorphosis, researchers create materials for shape-shifting architecture

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a class of materials that can change their fundamental architecture, inspired by nature's metamorphosis. The metamorphosis system involves connecting kirigami units to create structures capable of bearing significant weight and transforming into different architectures.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMaterials Today Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer names Australian researcher Dr. Michael Boyer 2021 recipient of the Adi F. Gazdar IASLC Merit Award

Dr. Michael Boyer is the chief clinical officer at The Lighthouse Chris O'Brien comprehensive cancer center in Sydney, Australia. He has been recognized with the Adi F. Gazdar IASLC Merit Award for his pioneering work in molecular pathology and dedication to lung cancer research.

Exploring the genetic ma(i)ze: Functional genomics can help molecular breeding of maize

Researchers used functional genomics to identify key genes involved in inducing callus from immature maize embryos, overcoming a major roadblock in plant breeding. The study found that nearly 30% of predicted A188 genes were structurally different from other maize lines, accounting for high protein divergence and phenotypic variations.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalThe Crop Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

Exposure to traffic noise linked to higher dementia risk

A study from Denmark found that long-term exposure to road traffic and railway noise is associated with a higher risk of developing dementia, especially Alzheimer's disease. The researchers estimate that up to 1,216 cases of dementia in 2017 could be attributed to these noise exposures.

SourceBMJ Group·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

USC study identifies new risk factor for most common childhood cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

Children genetically predisposed to overproduce lymphocytes in relation to other white blood cells are at higher risk of developing ALL, according to a new USC study. The research found that the ratio of lymphocytes to other key blood cells is significant in predicting leukemia risk.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

HIV linked with increased risk of sudden cardiac death

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people living with HIV are at a higher risk of sudden cardiac death compared to those without the virus. The study analyzed data from over 144,000 veterans and found that 26% of those who died from sudden cardiac death had HIV.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 8, 2021

Antioxidant drug reverses process responsible for heart attacks and strokes

A new antioxidant drug, cysteamine, has been found to reverse atherosclerosis by reducing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. This process reduces inflammation, damage, and clot formation, ultimately lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Cysteamine was shown to decrease plaque size by up to 56% in mice with atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 8, 2021

Sunlight can break down marine plastic into tens of thousands of chemical compounds, study finds

A new study finds that sunlight can break down marine plastic into tens of thousands of chemical compounds, transforming it into a suite of polymer-, dissolved-, and gas-phased products. This process produces more complex transformation products than previously understood, with some bags producing up to 15,000 formulas.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

Study finds critical data needed for monitoring and preserving biodiversity is missing

The world's largest repository of raw genomic sequences is missing critical data necessary for monitoring and preserving biodiversity. Only 14% of archived datasets contain information about when and where organisms were sampled, highlighting the need for community standards to preserve metadata.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

Monash University researchers unlock the key that could lead to the development of non-opioid painkillers to treat chronic pain

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a new mode of targeting the adenosine A1 receptor protein, which could lead to the development of non-opioid painkillers to treat chronic neuropathic pain. The study provides an opportunity for researchers to develop safer and more effective drugs.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Doing Poseidon’s work: How citizen scientists are restoring NSW’s endangered seagrass meadows

A study published in Biological Conservation enlisted the help of 80 citizen scientists to collect 1500 naturally detached Posidonia shoots washed up on the beach after storms. The 'Storm Squad' successfully rehabilitated populations of NSW's endangered Posidonia australis, with most transplanted fragments producing new shoots after on...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalConservation Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Museum collections predict species abundance in the wild

Researchers analyzed 1.4 million field observations and 73,000 museum records to find a strong correlation between species abundance in nature and their presence in museum collections. This method enables scientists to study species decline and estimate past abundances, providing insights into conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2021

Steps per day matter in middle age, but not as many as you may think

A UMass Amherst researcher found that walking 7,000 steps per day significantly reduces middle-aged mortality risk, but further increases do not provide additional benefits. The study analyzed data from over 2,100 participants and suggests that even small increments in physical activity can have substantial health implications.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021

NIH-funded modern “white cane” brings navigation assistance to the 21st century

A newly improved robotic cane, funded by NIH/National Eye Institute, uses a color 3D camera, inertial measurement sensor, and onboard computer to guide users to desired locations while avoiding obstacles. The device can provide accurate navigation assistance in large spaces with sensory and auditory cues.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021

Immunologic resilience: A new metric to accurately gauge COVID-19’s path

Researchers developed a novel concept to predict COVID-19 severity using immunologic resilience, which was linked to patient outcomes such as mortality, hospitalization, and SARS-CoV-2 levels. The study found that patients with inferior immune health grades had higher risks of severe illness and poorer outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2021