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Science News for April 20, 2022


Do pain relievers impede bone drug’s efficacy?

Researchers found that NSAID use negates the bone-protective effects of bisphosphonate clodronate on preventing osteoporotic fractures. The study suggests caution in extrapolating these data to more widely used bisphosphonates, as concomitant usage may lead to reduced fracture risk.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateApr 20, 2022

African dust crosses the Atlantic

Researchers found a simulated annual downward trend in surface PM10 concentrations in Senegal and Cabo Verde after the 1980s. However, there was an increase in dust over the Western Sahara transported to Cabo Verde, suggesting Eastern Atlantic dust continued on toward the U.S. and Caribbean.

SourcePenn State·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateApr 20, 2022

Using bacteria to build settlements on Mars

Researchers at Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a method to make bricks out of Martian soil using bacteria and urea. These 'space bricks' can be used for building-like structures on Mars, reducing porosity and increasing strength. The team plans to study the effect of Mars' atmosphere and low gravity on the bricks.

Lab grown, self-sustainable muscle cells repair muscle injury and disease, mouse study shows

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully cultivated human muscle stem cells capable of renewing themselves and repairing muscle tissue damage in mice. The self-renewing stem cells were created by reprogramming laboratory-grown human skin cells, which then differentiated into specific cell types using a nutrient-rich broth.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 20, 2022

UK National Osteoporosis Guideline Group publishes new guidance

The UK National Osteoporosis Guideline Group has published a new guideline for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, which includes updated recommendations for vertebral fracture detection and anabolic treatment options. The guidance aims to improve service provision in both primary and secondary care settings.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalArchives of Osteoporosis·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2022

Got food cravings? What's living in your gut may be responsible

A new study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that mice with different gut microbiomes choose different diets, influenced by substances produced by microbes. The researchers suggest that certain molecules, such as tryptophan, may be hijacking the body's natural signals to promote specific food cravings.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Dying stars’ cocoons might explain fast blue optical transients

A Northwestern University astrophysics team proposes that fast blue optical transients (FBOTs) originate from the cocoons of jets launched by dying stars. The new model, fully consistent with all FBOT observations, suggests that as the jet pushes the cocoon outward, it cools and releases heat, emitting an observed FBOT emission.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2022

Automated cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia delivered over the internet shown to be highly effective in Black women

A randomized trial found that an internet-delivered CBT-I program tailored for Black women resulted in significant improvements in insomnia symptoms and sustained gains at 6 months. Compared to a standard program, the culturally-tailored version improved engagement with treatment and led to better sleep outcomes.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Providing a potential treatment option to infants where there is none

A study led by MUSC researchers found that inhibiting the complement system with CR2Crry can prevent long-term brain damage and improve outcomes in premature infants with germinal matrix hemorrhage. The treatment has shown improved survival, weight gain, reduced brain injury, and enhanced motor and cognitive performances.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateApr 20, 2022

Fewer smartphones, more well-being

A study of 619 participants found that reducing smartphone use by one hour daily or complete abstinence for a week led to positive effects on physical activity, life satisfaction, anxiety, and depression. These benefits lasted longer in the reduced-use group, suggesting an optimal daily usage time may exist.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology Applied·DateApr 20, 2022

New tools against hospital infections?

A synthetic peptide has been shown to block the communication and virulence of resistant Staphylococcus bacteria in an animal model. The peptide, encapsulated in biodegradable microparticles, effectively inhibited skin wound infections.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

‘Dative epitaxy’: A new way to stack crystal films

Researchers have developed a novel method called 'dative epitaxy' for growing thin layers of crystals made from different materials on top of each other. This technique allows for the formation of special chemical bonds to fix crystal orientation, overcoming limitations of conventional and van der Waals epitaxial techniques.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 20, 2022

Only Arsenal of the Premier League ‘Big Six’ show resilience to withstand major future economic shocks

A new study from the University of Portsmouth reveals that only Arsenal among the Premier League's top six clubs has strong financial resilience to external economic shocks. The research found that Arsenal can withstand significant economic fluctuations, while other 'Big Six' clubs are more vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalSoccer and Society·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Study challenges theories of earlier human arrival in Americas

A recent study published in PLOS One suggests that humans arrived in the Americas by at least 14,200 years ago in Beringia and approximately 13,000 years ago in temperate latitudes. The researchers' findings are based on an analysis of buried archaeological deposits using a new statistic called the Apparent Stratigraphic Integrity Index.

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Warming climate and agriculture halve insect populations in some areas

A new study by University College London (UCL) researchers found that climate change and intensive agricultural land use have already led to a 49% reduction in insect populations in the most impacted parts of the world. Insect declines are linked to rising temperatures and land use changes, with tropical areas seeing the biggest declines.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Astronomers discover micronovae, a new kind of stellar explosion

A team of astronomers has discovered micronovae, extremely powerful events that occur on the surface of white dwarfs and can burn through billions of kilograms of material in a few hours. These new stellar explosions challenge our understanding of thermonuclear reactions in stars and may be more abundant than previously thought.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2022

Feeling worse after single session with health coach

A University of Gothenburg study found that a single visit to a health coach can deteriorate perceived health in 50-year-olds. After one hour-long session, participants reported worse changes in overall wellbeing, physical and mental health compared to those who received no treatment.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 20, 2022

Reversible fuel cells can support grid economically, Stanford researcher finds

Researchers at Stanford University and University of Mannheim find that integrated reversible power-to-gas systems can provide backup electricity during surging prices, reducing costs and increasing capacity utilization. The technology has the potential to link the electricity and hydrogen markets, making renewable energy more viable.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

The answer to keeping moose populations healthy? Wolves

A new study found that wolves preferentially target adult moose with osteoarthritis, an age-related disease, over prime-aged adults. This selective predation helps maintain a balance in prey populations, reducing the incidence of diseases such as osteoarthritis.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 20, 2022

No rest for new elephant mothers

A new study published in Animal Behaviour found that newborn African savannah elephants can keep up with their mothers' daily movements, contrary to previous assumptions. This remarkable ability allows the calves to benefit from protection against predators and integration into the herd's social structure.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalAnimal Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Do personality traits and social norms impact the gender pay gap?

A systematic review of 39 studies found that personality traits and social norms are important determinants of the gender pay gap. The analysis suggests that these factors can explain a significant portion of the gap, but further research is needed to fully understand their contributions.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Economic Surveys·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 20, 2022

Geoengineering could return risk of malaria for one billion people

A new study by Georgetown University Medical Center scientists found that geoengineering the climate could shift malaria transmission regions, increasing the risk of infection in some areas. The research used climate models to simulate malaria transmission under different warming scenarios with and without geoengineering.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2022

Study shines light on fertility education gaps among adolescent and young adult men with sickle cell disease

A new study found that many adolescent and young adult men with sickle cell disease are unaware of potential fertility issues associated with the disorder. The research suggests a need for accessible fertility education and testing options to address this knowledge gap, particularly in how SCD and treatments may affect fertility.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood Advances·DateApr 20, 2022

Stanford engineers develop new kind of 3D printing

Researchers have developed a way to print 3D objects within a stationary volume of resin, removing the need for support structures. This technique uses triplet fusion upconversion nanocapsules to create blue light, enabling the printing of complex designs with improved efficiency and reduced material usage.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateApr 20, 2022

New research reveals the complexity of improving rangeland management in Africa

A recent study found that community-based rangeland management projects in Namibia improved resource governance but had limited impact on environmental and economic outcomes. The projects aimed to increase household incomes and improve rangeland conditions through coordinated land use practices, but ultimately failed to achieve signifi...

Cannabis poisoning cases in pets have increased significantly

A survey of veterinarians in the US and Canada reveals a significant increase in cannabis poisoning cases among pets since Canada's 2018 legalization, with most cases treated successfully. The study highlights the importance of understanding the effects of cannabis on pets to inform veterinary efforts and policies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateApr 20, 2022

Following a Mediterranean-style diet during pregnancy may reduce the risk of preeclampsia

A Mediterranean-style diet during pregnancy was associated with reduced preeclampsia risk, particularly among Black women. The study found that following this diet resulted in a significant reduction in the risk of developing preeclampsia, which is a major cause of complications and death for mothers and their unborn children.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2022

New York City green roofs planted with native vegetation may perform better at managing stormwater than conventional succulent-planted green roofs, according to case study

A recent study found that native vegetation green roofs in New York City are more effective at managing stormwater runoff compared to conventional succulent-planted green roofs. The research used the Ranaqua green roof as a case study, which was constructed and monitored by the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2022

New bird app spreads its wings

The Bird Language Diversity app provides a 'birds eye view' of vital information on bird species globally. Researchers found that 1587 species have 10 languages or more spoken within their distributions, highlighting the importance of overcoming language barriers for effective conservation measures.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 20, 2022

SMEs are likely to achieve higher environmental performance through circular economy adoption – new research

A new study by Aston University reveals that Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) can improve their sustainability performance by adopting circular economy practices. The research found that SMEs in all participating countries are likely to achieve higher environmental performance through CE adoption, with products, processes, and...

SourceAston University·JournalInternational Journal of Production Economics·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2022

Interacting plexcitons for designed ultrafast optical nonlinearity in a monolayer semiconductor

A team of scientists creates ultrafast optical nonlinearity in a monolayer semiconductor by designing plasmon-exciton polaritons, achieving strong interactions and great tunability. This breakthrough enables high-speed all-optical switching and energy-efficient data processing at room temperature.

Deep brain stimulation driven by motor cortical activity can effectively treat Parkinson’s disease

Researchers developed a new method of deep brain stimulation driven by motor cortical activity to treat Parkinson's disease. This approach, known as adaptive DBS (aDBS), uses γ2 band activity from the primary motor cortex to modulate stimulation parameters and reduce battery consumption.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Opioid-related deaths affecting more younger adults, study finds

A new study found that opioid-related mortality rates in Ontario, Canada, have shifted downward to peak in the mid-30s among males and females. The study analyzed high-frequency data from 2003 to 2020 and hypothesizes that opioid-related mortality among younger adults will continue to grow.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Making a game of it: Contests help new moms increase their steps

Researchers found that gamification increased daily steps by an average of 647 for postpartum individuals with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The study, published in JAMA Cardiology, demonstrates the effectiveness of text-based gamification interventions to improve physical activity among high-risk postpartum women.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 20, 2022

A doctor’s visit from the future

A doctor's visit from the future describes patient care in 2042, where diagnosis and treatment are personalized based on individual biological abnormalities. Researchers believe this approach could lead to more effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 20, 2022

New global forecasts of marine heatwaves foretell ecological and economic impacts

Researchers developed global forecasts that can provide up to a year's notice of marine heatwaves, which can dramatically affect ocean ecosystems. The forecasts help fishing fleets, ocean managers, and coastal communities anticipate the effects of marine heatwaves, reducing ecological and economic impacts.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 20, 2022

Multifunctional graphene-based composites oriented by roles of graphene in photocatalysis

The review discusses optimization strategies for multifunctional graphene-based composite photocatalysts, including decreasing defect density, chemical doping, and depositing cocatalysts. Graphene plays a crucial role in enhancing light absorption, electron transfer dynamics, and surface reactions.

Can a blood test help diagnose skin cancer?

Researchers developed a blood test to detect circulating melanoma cells, which can help diagnose skin cancer and monitor treatment response. The test uses the Melanoma-specific OncoBean platform conjugated with melanoma-specific antibodies.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced NanoBiomed Research·DateApr 20, 2022

NIST study shows everyday plastic products release trillions of microscopic particles into water

Researchers analyzed food-grade nylon bags and single-use beverage cups, finding that they release trillions of nanoparticles per liter when exposed to hot water. The average size of these nanoparticles was between 30-80 nanometers, with concentrations seven times higher from nylon bags than from beverage cups.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2022

Studies detail current, future obstacles to abortion care

Two studies from Ohio State University analyze the impact of proposed abortion bans on access to care, revealing that residents may need to travel up to triple the distance for services. The research highlights the exacerbation of health inequities and the challenges faced by patients with limited financial resources.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPerspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health·DateApr 20, 2022

In the race to solve Alzheimer’s disease, scientists find more needles in the haystack

Researchers from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio have identified 33 genes associated with Alzheimer's disease, doubling the known list. This discovery adds 42 new genetic variants to the existing gene list, shedding light on emerging pathways of Alzheimer's biology and potential treatment targets.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 20, 2022

Ubiquitous nutrients suppress appetite and promote movement

A study published in Current Biology found that consuming non-essential amino acids can curb appetite and encourage physical activity in mice. This mechanism is thought to be rooted in evolutionary history, where eating these amino acids promoted the urge to seek out more nutrient-rich food sources.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 20, 2022

ESMO Breast Cancer Congress 2022

The ESMO Breast Cancer Congress 2022 event will present more than 200 studies on various aspects of breast cancer, including new treatments and innovative clinical practices. The congress will be held onsite in Berlin, Germany, and online, offering a platform for breast cancer specialists to share knowledge and improve patient outcomes.

Multiple treatments to slow age-related muscle wasting

Researchers have discovered a combination therapy that can delay sarcopenia, a condition where muscles shrink and strength declines with age. Calorie restriction and rapamycin have been shown to have additive benefits in mice, promoting healthy muscle function and physical capability.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Molecular robots work cooperatively in swarms

Researchers developed micro-sized machines utilizing swarming strategy for cargo delivery, outperforming single robots with efficiency of up to five times. The team created a swarm of cooperating robots that can divide workload and respond to risks, expanding potential uses for microrobots.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Active resolution of inflammation: No evidence that specialized lipid messengers are involved

A recent study led by Goethe University found no evidence that specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) play a role in inflammation resolution. Instead, the transformation of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages is thought to be the key mechanism. This discovery challenges the existing SPM conce...

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 20, 2022

Risky driving behaviors increase as common sleep disorder worsens

A new study found that people with sleep apnea are more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors such as speeding and hard braking. The researchers monitored the driving habits of 96 older adults under real-world conditions and collected data on over 100,000 trips. They also assessed cognitive impairments and molecular signs of earl...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalSLEEP·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Online tool helps older adults who question, “Is it time to stop driving?”

A recent randomized controlled trial found that an online decision aid can help older adults decide whether and when to stop driving. The tool, called Healthwise DDA, had high acceptability and reduced negative feelings about the process among participants. It may help older adults make informed decisions about their driving abilities.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 20, 2022

Flexible printable electrical patches for accelerated wound healing

Researchers at Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation have developed a flexible, antibacterial conductive hydrogel-ePatch that accelerates wound healing with minimal side effects. The e-Patch uses silver nanowires and alginate to promote cell proliferation and migration, resulting in faster wound closure and reduced scarring.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

Protected areas don’t always boost biodiversity

A global study reveals that protected areas can have a positive impact on biodiversity, but only if managed properly. The research found that larger protected areas tend to be more effective in conserving species and their habitats, highlighting the need for better management strategies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Women’s earnings drop after childbirth

A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that women's earnings drop substantially after childbirth, with the gap widening across all education levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, making it more challenging for mothers to restart their careers and leading to worse hiring prospects and wage penalties.

SourceCornell University·JournalPopulation and Development Review·DateApr 20, 2022

Boston University CTE Center study of former Notre Dame football players finds college players more likely to have brain disorders

Former Notre Dame football players from 1964-80 teams found to have higher risk of brain disorders like CTE and ALS compared to general population. However, the study also reveals positive long-term health outcomes in former college players with lower mortality rates and fewer cases of lung cancer and heart disease.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeSurvey·DateApr 20, 2022

Study: Mediterranean-style diet further linked to reduced risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women of all races

A new study found that following a Mediterranean-style diet can lower the risk of preeclampsia by at least 20% in pregnant women. The research surveyed over 8,000 women and found that racial differences in rates of preeclampsia were more related to socioeconomic factors than genetic or biological ones.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateApr 20, 2022

Lockdown for tumour cells

A novel inhibitor has been discovered that stalls a critical enzyme inside tumour cells, locking them in place and preventing invasion into healthy tissue. The findings hold promise for the development of metastasis-blocking agents.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 20, 2022

Ethical communication in the age of information

Researchers from Osaka University proposed a comprehensive ethical framework and practical guidance for communicating with research participants through the Internet. The framework addresses issues such as participant recruitment, informed consent, and data protection, aiming to improve future practice in medical research.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateApr 20, 2022

New “micro-rocker” bots are powered by a single electromagnetic coil

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed micro-rocker bots that can move precisely on a solid surface using a single electromagnetic coil. The robots, about the size of a particle of dust, are controlled by a magnetic field generated by the coil and can perform well-controlled movement with selectable direction.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Micro-Bio Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

With CryoEM, MSK researchers obtain exquisite view of the androgen receptor — a key protein in prostate cancer

Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have obtained exquisite views of the androgen receptor using cryo-electron microscopy. The study reveals unique features of the receptor that enable it to turn on a wide range of genes, distinct from other hormone receptors. This newfound understanding provides clues to how androgen...

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeNews article·DateApr 20, 2022