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Science News for April 25, 2022


Zircons (and the secrets they hold) are forever

Researchers found that around 3.8 billion years ago, a major transition in the geochemistry of zircons occurred, suggesting the onset of plate tectonics. This discovery provides hints about how the planet became habitable and under which conditions the earliest forms of life developed.

SourceHarvard University·JournalAGU Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2022

How to assess a community's resilience

Researchers developed an interdisciplinary resilience framework to understand the connection between social and water systems in communities like the Choyeros. The framework explores how social systems impact water supply resilience and vice versa, providing a tool to generate conversations and coordinate responses.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalSustainability Science·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2022

Passion has its rewards

Researchers at Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that passion is a crucial factor in determining success among top football players. The study, which compared elite and regional players, revealed that burning passion for the sport was the key differentiator.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNew Ideas in Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 25, 2022

Study suggests policy, education and training make youngest novice drivers better prepared for license exam, less likely to crash

A study using Ohio license data found that mandatory driver education, including behind-the-wheel training, reduces crash rates among novice drivers under 18. The research suggests reevaluating comprehensive licensing policies to keep young drivers safe.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 25, 2022

When male bees don’t get lucky

A study found that pesticides can impact the reproductive behavior of male bees, making them less desirable to females. The researchers exposed horned mason bees to a low-toxicity fungicide and discovered that pesticide-exposed males were more likely to be rejected by females.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateApr 25, 2022

Study examines resilience of immigrant youth in various living arrangements

Resilience and emotional well-being were higher among immigrant youth who lived with family members or had no family members, whereas those without family support expressed lower resilience and more stress. The study highlights the impact of household composition on the mental health of adolescent migrants.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Migration and Health·TypeSurvey·DateApr 25, 2022

Where the mind is without fear: Scientists discover mechanism behind the chemically induced suppression of fearful memories

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science identify brain regions and signaling pathways involved in fear extinction via delta receptor activation. The study suggests a potential therapeutic agent for post-traumatic stress disorders by suppressing fearful memories.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Study of all fully vaccinated people in Belgium assesses risk of breakthrough COVID-19 infections

A Belgian study assessed the risk factors of breakthrough COVID-19 infections in fully vaccinated people, finding mRNA vaccines offered greater protection than viral vector jabs. Breakthrough infections were more common in those who received viral vector vaccines, while prior Covid infection and vaccination provided added protection.

Six in ten people with COVID-19 still have a least one symptom a year later, long Covid study reveals

A new study found that six in ten people with COVID-19 still experience at least one symptom a year later, with fatigue, shortness of breath, and irritability being the most common. The study also revealed that participants with moderate/severe COVID-19 were more likely to have ongoing symptoms and sleep problems.

Classifying exoplanet atmospheres opens new field of study

An international team of researchers analyzed data from 25 hot Jupiters, finding a link between thermal inversions and the presence of hydrogen anion and metallic species. These findings will help establish a generalized theory of planet formation, improving our understanding of all planets, including Earth.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2022

Is immunotherapy the answer to peanut allergy purgatory?

The efficacy of Palforzia in treating peanut allergies is being called into question by Dr. Michael R. Perkin, who raises concerns about adverse events and potential long-term side effects. The editorial review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the treatment option.

SourceWiley·JournalClinical & Experimental Allergy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 25, 2022

Hitting rewind to predict multi-step chemical reactions

A new method predicts the starting materials and reaction paths of multi-step chemical reactions using only information about the target product molecule. The algorithm reduces the number of paths to explore, mitigating the combinatorial explosion that occurs in single-step reactions.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJACS Au·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2022

Meat consumption must fall by at least 75 percent

A new study by the University of Bonn recommends significantly reducing meat consumption to mitigate climate change and environmental damage. While mass vegetarianism is not a viable solution due to limited food availability in some regions, moderate meat consumption can be sustainable if implemented carefully.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAnnual Review of Resource Economics·DateApr 25, 2022

Death in darkness: a new type of cell death discovered in fly guts

Researchers have identified a new type of programmed cell death, erebosis, that takes place in the intestines of fruit flies, contradicting the long-held theory of apoptosis. The process involves gradual cell death without nuclear membranes, mitochondria, and cytoskeletons, and is thought to play a role in gut metabolism.

SourceRIKEN·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 25, 2022

HKUMed finds strengthened road safety measures associated with fewer traffic injuries and drink-driving despite alcohol tax cuts

A study found that strengthened road safety policies reduced road traffic injuries and drink-driving in Hong Kong by 13.8% and 63.6%, respectively, after the implementation of these measures in 2008. The research also showed a sustained decline in road traffic injuries linked to increased police traffic enforcement.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalAddiction·DateApr 25, 2022

Long COVID associated with different clinical trajectories and characteristics depending on severity of initial SARS-CoV-2 infection

A large study found that over a third of ICU patients developed long COVID, compared to 6% of hospitalised patients and 1% of outpatients. Long COVID is associated with different clinical trajectories and characteristics depending on the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection severity.

A combination of three simple treatments may reduce invasive cancer risk by 61% among adults aged 70+

A combination of high-dose vitamin D, omega-3s, and a simple home strength exercise program (SHEP) showed a cumulative reduction of 61% in cancer risk among healthy adults aged 70 or older. The study, published in Frontiers in Aging, highlights the potential benefits of combining multiple public health interventions for cancer prevention.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging·DateApr 25, 2022

Top thought leaders tackle health care inequities in population health management

This special issue of Population Health Management examines health disparities in underserved populations, including telehealth utilization and mobile medical clinics. Thought leaders discuss the importance of addressing structural racism and promoting health equity to reduce inequities in pediatric healthcare access.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPopulation Health Management·TypeCase study·DateApr 25, 2022

Talk therapy may alleviate depression and improve quality of life for people with dementia

A new Cochrane Review paper reveals that talk therapy can alleviate depression and improve quality of life for people with dementia. The study found that psychological interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), are effective in reducing symptoms of depression and improving wellbeing.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 25, 2022

Managing UK agriculture with rock dust could absorb up to 45 per cent of the atmospheric carbon dioxide needed for net-zero, research shows

A new study by the University of Sheffield suggests that adding rock dust to UK agricultural soils could remove between 6 and 30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually by 2050. The approach offers a cost-effective alternative to other carbon removal options, with estimated costs falling to £100 per tonne by 2050.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 25, 2022

New research harnesses the power of movement

Researchers have developed a unique design for sensors capable of using human movements, such as bending and stretching, to power wearable technology devices. The self-powered pressure sensors can detect health conditions and measure performance in sports, with potential applications including smart watches and fitness trackers.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 25, 2022

Mysteries of gas giants known as ‘hot Jupiters’ unravelled

Researchers have uncovered significant trends in hot Jupiters' atmospheres, including dramatic temperature swings and the presence of metallic elements. The study's findings provide valuable insights into the evolution of our solar system and offer a better understanding of exoplanet populations.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2022

CU study reviews COVID-related hospital visitation limits and family stress

A CU study finds that COVID-19 hospital visitation limits may have contributed to a significant increase in stress-related disorders among family members of ICU patients. Nearly two-thirds of those restricted from visiting suffered from stress-related disorders three months after their family member was hospitalized.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateApr 25, 2022

Risk score seems to accurately identify patients at low risk for syncope in Emergency Department

A new study validates the Canadian Syncope Risk Score as a reliable tool to identify patients at low risk for serious outcomes after 30 days, potentially reducing hospitalization rates. The score showed better performance than another validated score, but its clinical utility remains uncertain and warrants further research.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2022

First-of-its-kind study compares domestic violence programs, finds promising results

A randomized controlled trial comparing an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based program with the Duluth Model found that men convicted of domestic violence were charged with significantly fewer violent and nonviolent charges one year after completing the treatment program. Survey data also suggested a reduction in behaviors li...

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 25, 2022

UTMB study shows common antibody therapy has anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies

Researchers at UTMB confirmed the presence of neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in a commonly used immunoglobulin product, providing protective benefits to immunocompromised patients. The study's findings have value for future immunoglobulin-based modalities and reduce anxiety about infection or exposure to the virus.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

A catalyst for the development of carbon-neutral technology of the radiation accelerator

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has developed a new strategy to fabricate an electrode by observing the surface electronic structure during the reaction of the water oxidation electrode. The research team found that general cobalt is reconstructed during the reaction, enabling the maintenance of a trivalent oxidati...

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 25, 2022

Friendship ornaments from the Stone Age

A study by University of Helsinki researchers suggests that some Stone Age ornaments were deliberately fragmented as part of social relations, bartering, or ritual activities. The analysis of geochemical composition and use traces revealed fragments from the same ornament found in different locations, indicating they were worn by two i...

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory·DateApr 25, 2022

Relationship quality affects depressive symptoms in African American couples

A new study found that partner support significantly influences changes in depressive symptoms over time, but relationship satisfaction and effective arguing have a weaker effect. The research suggests strengthening partner support can improve mental health for individuals in committed relationships.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Unvaccinated people increase risk of SARS-CoV-2 for vaccinated people even when vaccination rates are high

A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that unvaccinated individuals pose a significant risk to vaccinated people, even when vaccination rates are high. The research suggests that mixing between unvaccinated and vaccinated populations can lead to substantial new infections among the vaccinated.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2022

Fatigue, breathlessness and other symptoms improve after six weeks of virtual exercise sessions, Ireland’s first exercised-based recovery program for COVID-19 patients finds

A six-week virtual exercise program has improved fatigue, breathlessness, and quality of life for COVID-19 patients in Ireland. Participants were able to walk further and experience significant improvements in physical fitness and overall health.

LightPC Presents a Resilient System Using Only Non-Volatile Memory​

The KAIST research team has developed LightPC, a lightweight persistence centric system that ensures both data and execution persistence using only non-volatile memory. This technology reduces power consumption and increases performance by minimizing internal volatile memory components and increasing parallelism.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 25, 2022

Human cells’ emergency response could lead to better cancer treatment, research finds

Researchers found that a critical enzyme called AAG plays a crucial role in making cells respond to stress by communicating between different parts of the cell. This new understanding could lead to improved cancer treatments using alkylating agents, a class of drugs commonly used in chemotherapy.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Automated analysis of animal behaviour

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an automated way to analyze animal behavior from video footage using computer vision and machine learning. The new algorithm can distinguish individual animals and identify specific behaviors, such as curiosity or fear responses, with high accuracy.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Learning from endangered zebra stem cells

Researchers at Kyoto University have produced induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from the endangered Grévy's zebra, showcasing similarities with human and mouse stem cells. The study's findings provide insight into evolutionary conservation between mammals and may help advance research on endangered species.

SourceKyoto University·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateApr 25, 2022

New study examining women’s breast density knowledge suggests opportunities for improvement

A new study suggests that while breast density knowledge may be increasing due to existing state laws, there is still room for improvement. The study found that most women with non-dense breasts did not correctly know their own density, and that lower education was associated with a lower chance of accurately knowing one's own density.

SourceDartmouth Health·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·TypeSurvey·DateApr 25, 2022

A new era of mitochondrial genome editing has begun

Scientists have successfully developed a gene-editing platform called TALED that can perform A-to-G base conversion in mitochondria, the final missing piece of the puzzle in gene-editing technology. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating previously incurable genetic diseases caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Newly discovered protein in fungus bypasses plant defenses

A team of scientists has identified a protein called SsPINE1 that allows the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum to overcome plant defenses. This discovery could lead to new avenues for controlling white mold stem rot pathogens and potentially even more effective, targeted breeding to make plants naturally resistant.

SourceUS Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Inflammation markers associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy may signal adverse impacts to long-term infant health

A new study from Boston Medical Center found that COVID-19 infection during pregnancy is associated with elevated inflammatory markers in infants, potentially impacting growth and brain development. Researchers emphasize the importance of COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant women to avoid long-term adverse consequences for their infant.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of Perinatology·DateApr 25, 2022

An international consortium, led by IRB Barcelona and the biotechnology company Merus, reports the discovery of MCLA-158, the first clinical candidate screened in organoids targeting cancer stem cells of solid tumors

Researchers from IRB Barcelona and Merus have discovered MCLA-158, a bi-specific antibody targeting cancer stem cells. The treatment prevents metastasis and slows primary tumor growth in experimental models of cancer.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Controlling heat flow in a solid by switching crystal structure dimensionality

Scientists have created a material that can reversibly switch between high and low thermal conductivity by changing its crystal structure dimensionality, opening up new possibilities for thermal management. The material's ability to alter its thermal conductivity allows for more efficient heat flow control.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Membrane bioreactor performs better than the conventional activated sludge process in techno-economy

A study of 20 full-scale WWTPs found MBR performed better than CAS in terms of energy consumption and environmental benefits, with increased marginal environmental benefit and average net profit. The techno-economic feasibility of retrofitting from CAS to MBR is confirmed, especially under strict effluent standards.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 25, 2022