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Science News for February 14, 2022


Study reveals likely link between mitochondrial dysfunction and age-dependent cognitive disorders

Scientists demonstrate a definitive link between mitochondrial oxidative damage and cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease using a transgenic mouse model. The study found that Aβ1-42 aggregation in the hippocampus caused cognitive impairment, while oxidation led to mitochondrial dysfunction.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalBiomedicines·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Psyche, the iron giant of asteroids, may be less iron than researchers thought

New research suggests that asteroid 16 Psyche is likely harboring a hidden rocky component, contradicting initial assumptions about its iron-rich composition. The study's findings indicate that the asteroid's porosity would be unlikely to remain stable over time, and alternative explanations for its metallic surface must be explored.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·DateFeb 14, 2022

Social support may lower American Indians’ risk of cardiovascular disease, death

A study by Washington State University found that social support can mitigate the risk of heart disease and death in older American Indians. Higher rates of depression symptoms, poor quality of life, and social isolation were linked to increased mortality, but instrumental social support reversed this effect.

SourceWashington State University·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Reframing the controversial bushmeat trade

Researchers examine the complex relationship between bushmeat consumption and global health, finding that Western definitions of progress may overlook local cultures. By reframing conservation perspectives, they aim to create a more balanced narrative around this contentious trade.

SourceYale University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 14, 2022

NOACs associated with lower risk for diabetic complications and mortality compared with warfarin

A retrospective cohort study of patients with atrial fibrillation and diabetes found that non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC) were associated with a lower risk of diabetes complications and mortality than warfarin. The study suggests that NOAC may be a better therapeutic choice for this patient population.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Fighting poverty won’t jeopardize climate goals

According to a new study, lifting over 1 billion people out of poverty worldwide would increase global carbon emissions by 1.6-2.1%. The main reason for this is the huge inequality in carbon footprint between rich and poor nations. Rich countries emit significantly more carbon than poor ones.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Oestrogen levels linked to risk of COVID-19 death in older women

Research published in BMJ Open found that older women with higher oestrogen levels had a lower risk of severe COVID-19 infection and death. Women taking hormone replacement therapy also showed a significantly reduced risk of dying from COVID-19, highlighting the potential benefits of hormonal treatment in reducing infection severity.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

How climate change is destroying Arctic coasts

Scientists at the University of Hamburg have calculated for the first time the future balance of Arctic coastal erosion, which increases by up to three meters per year with each degree of temperature increase. A shift towards greater sustainability could slow this process, but it's unlikely to stop land loss entirely.

SourceUniversity of Hamburg·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 14, 2022

At bioenergy crossroads, should corn ethanol be left in the rearview mirror?

A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers finds that corn ethanol's environmental impacts are worse than expected, with carbon emissions potentially negating any climate advantages. The analysis suggests a shift towards next-generation biofuels made from perennial plants could be necessary.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

How can we get better at telling misinformation from reliable expert consensus?

A recent study found that people are equally convinced by false and true expert consensus, but provide source information can strengthen the latter. Researchers at UNSW Science's School of Psychology tested this phenomenon and developed strategies to combat misinformation. By providing context on how original sources used evidence to a...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalCognition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

New study finds COVID-19 hotspots in Canadian urban centers

A new study identifies COVID-19 hotspots in Canadian cities across four provinces, with concentrations of cases linked to social determinants of health such as income, housing and visible minority status. The study calls for city-specific public health supports tailored to communities at disproportionate risk of COVID-19.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Helping the body overcome Sars-Cov-2

A team of scientists has identified specific interferon-alpha subtypes that elicit a strong immune response against Sars-Cov-2. These subtypes were found to be highly effective in suppressing the virus, even when combined with antiviral drugs like remdesivir.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Study performs cost analysis of popular autism interventions

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Kansas has analyzed the cost of two commonly used interventions for students with autism spectrum disorder. The results showed that implementing emerging or ineffective interventions can consume valuable resources without promising positive outcomes. The study's goal was to p...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalExceptional Children·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Growing the perfect diamond: Simulations reveal interesting geometric patterns

Scientists have simulated the growth of ultra-thin polycrystalline diamond films with promising results. The two-dimensional simulations revealed interesting geometric structures and shed light on how to create robust materials. The research has implications for biomedical science, quantum devices, and other applications.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalActa Materialia·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 14, 2022

Filtering out the noise

Researchers find that familiar stimuli quiet down brain activity in fruit flies, allowing for clearer processing of specific odors. This mechanism applies to neural circuits in other animals, including humans, and is essential for filtering out distractions to focus on relevant information.

Cell groups push, rather than pull, themselves into place as organs form and cancers spread

Researchers discovered that cells in moving group push the front of their group, contrary to previous findings that they pull with their front edges. The discovery sheds light on how tissues apply force in groups to generate motion in living organisms, which could have implications for cancer spread.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Federally funded sex education programs linked to decline in teen birth rates, new study shows

A new study finds that federally funded comprehensive sex education programs led to a significant decline in teenage pregnancy rates, with an average reduction of over 3 percent. The research analyzed data from 55 counties that received funding and compared them to over 2,800 unfunded counties.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Decline of vultures and rise of dogs carries disease risks

A recent study published in the Journal of Wildlife Management found that vulture declines are linked to increased disease risks due to their absence. With no natural clean-up crew, diseases spread rapidly among scavenger communities, including feral dogs, which fill the ecological gap left by vultures.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Follow-up costs can add up if a free cancer screening shows a potential problem

New studies from Michigan Medicine researchers aim to remove financial barriers for patients who receive abnormal test results, enabling them to complete the diagnostic process. The findings suggest that removing cost barriers could save lives by increasing screening uptake, particularly among women and underserved populations.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Businesses run by minorities, women and vets disproportionately affected by pandemic, NIST, NOAA study finds

A new study found that businesses run by minorities, women, and veterans were more likely to experience negative effects from the pandemic than non-HUGO businesses. The researchers analyzed responses from over 1,350 businesses and found that demographic factors played a significant role in determining a business's resilience during the...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·DateFeb 14, 2022

Numerical model of butterfly flight dynamics

A team of researchers from Shinshu University has developed a precise numerical model of butterfly flight dynamics, revealing the intricate relationship between wing movement and air flow. The study's findings have significant implications for designing micro air vehicles (MAVs), which could lead to breakthroughs in aerospace engineering.

SourceShinshu University·JournalBiology Open·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

What lies beneath: Roots as drivers of South African landscape pattern

A new study reveals that roots are the true engine of terrestrial nutrient cycling, driving biodiversity in South Africa's Fynbos and Afrotemperate Forest biomes. The research found that Fynbos plants use thinnest roots to limit nutrient availability for trees, allowing them to outcompete forest species.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B Volume 11, Issue 12 publishes

This issue of Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B presents several studies on drug-induced liver injury, including the role of p62/SQSTM1 in acetaminophen-induced liver injury and the importance of gut barrier function in pyrrolizidine alkaloid-induced hepatotoxicity. The journal also explores mechanisms of immune checkpoint inhibitor-mediated...

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateFeb 14, 2022

Sustainable bioeconomy: Development of environmentally friendly bio-shampoos and plant protection agent technologies

A new study examines the toxic impact of bio-based substances and innovative technologies on the environment, finding both biosurfactants and microgels as highly promising candidates for use in sustainable products. The results highlight the importance of integrating green toxicology into bioeconomy strategies.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Trauma centers expand care to treat patients beyond physical injury

Trauma centers in the US are increasingly screening and intervening for patients with alcohol and substance abuse issues, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicidal ideation. A survey found that over 95% of trauma centers screen and intervene for high-risk patients, leading to significant reductions in re-entry rates.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateFeb 14, 2022

Decolonize research to save heritage threatened by climate change

New research from the University of East Anglia and partner institutions highlights the need for locally led research and equitable funding to address the loss and damage of heritage from climate change. The study suggests that decolonial approaches can strengthen adaptation action globally and recognize the breadth of heritage.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

'Math neurons' identified in the brain

Researchers at the University of Bonn and Tübingen discovered specific brain cells that fire during mathematical operations. The study found unique neurons for addition and subtraction tasks, suggesting a complex coding system in the human brain.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

New in the Hastings Center Report: January-February 2022 issue

The Hastings Center Report examines four key considerations for assessing risk-trade-offs in the pandemic, including education, economies, healthcare, travel, social engagement, and medical countermeasures. The report also challenges traditional notions of advance directives in end-of-life care, proposing a new principle of patient aut...

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalThe Hastings Center Report·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 14, 2022

High levels of hazardous chemicals found in Canadian nail salons

A University of Toronto study found high levels of hazardous chemicals in Canadian nail salons, with exposures up to 30 times higher than in homes and 10 times higher than in e-waste handling facilities. The study urges government and product manufacturers to make safer personal care products and safer spaces for workers and customers.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Estimating reward & risk with machine learning improves portfolio performance by up to 28%

A study published in The Journal of Finance and Data Science found that using machine learning to estimate reward and risk improves portfolio performance. Machine learning helps provide accurate estimates by taking advantage of complex non-linear relationships between market variables, outperforming linear methods.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Finance and Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Researchers train neural network to recognize chemical formulas from research papers

A team of researchers from Skoltech and universities developed a neural network-based solution for automated recognition of chemical formulas on research paper scans. The algorithm combines molecules, functional groups, fonts, styles, and printing defects to mimic existing molecular template depiction styles.

Researchers use supercomputers for largest-ever turbulence simulations of its kind

Researchers at TU Darmstadt and Universitat Politècnica de València used HPC resources to develop a new symmetry-based turbulence theory, resolving the closure problem of turbulence. This approach allows for reduced computational grid size and direct access to mean values like air pressure and speed.

SourceGauss Centre for Supercomputing·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 14, 2022

Intervention reduces disparities in timing of lung cancer surgery between Black and white patients

A multi-faceted intervention resulted in timelier lung cancer surgery for Black patients, with median times of 23 days compared to 43 days for historical groups. The ACCURE trial improved treatment rates and reduced treatment delays, demonstrating the effectiveness of addressing racial inequities in care.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Progress in reproductive biology - new insights into the binding behaviour of the porcine sperm protein 'AWN'

Researchers from Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research discovered a previously unknown localisation of the porcine sperm protein 'AWN', strengthening its involvement in sperm-egg fusion. The findings are crucial for improving assisted reproduction methods, including artificial insemination.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalBiology of Reproduction·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Type 1 diabetes in children: Only 22 euros for an early diagnosis before symptoms arise

A recent study found that early detection of type 1 diabetes in children can effectively monitor and treat the disease. The cost analysis shows that standard screening could reduce costs from 28 euros to 22 euros per child, while also preventing metabolic derailments and their consequences.

Trust clinical COVID-19 signs over a negative RT-PCR test

A Rutgers study found that hospital patients with repeated negative RT-PCR tests but exhibiting COVID-19 signs and/or symptoms were half as likely to receive treatment as those who tested positive. The study suggests that clinicians should not solely rely on RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 diagnosis.

SourceRutgers University·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Mental health crisis follows COVID-19 wake

A recent study found that Australian international border restrictions had a negative impact on mental health, with participants reporting high levels of psychological distress. The study highlights the need for policymakers to consider the toll of pandemic policies on people's mental health and wellbeing.

SourceFlinders University·JournalGlobalization and Health·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 14, 2022

Advanced computer simulations shed intriguing new light on magma deep below Earth’s surface

A team of researchers used computer modeling to discover that water-rich magmas are more buoyant and fluid than previously thought, allowing them to rise through the upper mantle towards the surface. This discovery provides new insight into the deep Earth water cycle and its connection to Earth's habitability.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 14, 2022

Time crystals leave the lab

Researchers at University of California - Riverside observe time crystals in a system not isolated from its environment, achieving a major breakthrough. The all-optical time crystal uses a disk-shaped magnesium fluoride glass resonator and has potential applications in accurate measurements and precision timekeeping.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

3 doses of Pfizer–BioNTech COVID vaccine better than 2

A Kaiser Permanente study found that a third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine significantly improved protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. The study's results suggest that three doses of the vaccine provide greater benefit than two doses in preventing these outcomes.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateFeb 14, 2022

New research finds digital music streaming consumption dropped as a result of COVID-19 and lockdowns

A new study found that audio music consumption decreased by over 12% during the pandemic, while people turned to video platforms for entertainment. The researchers attributed this shift to human mobility playing a larger role in music consumption than previously thought.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

First get your heart in shape then get pregnant

A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that more than half of young women in the US have at least one risk factor for poor heart health before pregnancy. Optimizing heart health before and during pregnancy can prevent complications, deliver a healthy baby, and even reduce the risk of heart disease years later.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 14, 2022

New study details the ways patients with multiple sclerosis develop impairment

A new study analyzed data from over 27,000 patients with multiple sclerosis to understand the impact of relapses on long-term outcomes. The research found that progression independent of relapse activity can start early in relapsing remitting MS and becomes the dominant driver of disability accumulation as the disease evolves.

Oregon State research uncovers key insight for restoration of globally important kelp forests

A new study by Oregon State University found that kelp forests tend towards stability in areas with high substrate complexity, which retains 'drift algae' that urchins prefer to eat. This suggests that restoration efforts targeting these areas could create 'hotspots of resilience.'

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Behind a good mutation: How a gene variant protects against Alzheimer’s

Researchers have discovered a gene variant that protects against Alzheimer's disease by increasing the activity of brain immune cells called microglia. The P522R variant also enhances the activation of other important aspects of immune function, suggesting potential new strategies for treating or preventing the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Accelerated ammonia synthesis holds promise for conversion of renewable energy

Researchers at Hiroshima University have developed a process to synthesize ammonia from its constituent molecules of nitrogen and hydrogen at ambient pressure, paving the way for efficient use in renewable energy applications. The new method utilizes lithium hydride as a molecular scaffold to prevent clumping and increase reaction speed.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateFeb 14, 2022

At bioenergy crossroads, should corn ethanol be left in the rearview mirror?

A new study published in PNAS reveals that the environmental impacts of corn ethanol far outweigh its benefits, with carbon emissions potentially negating any climate advantages. The research highlights the need to shift towards next-generation biofuels and improve efficiency, electrification, and policy-making.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

Structural sexism and anti-LGB stigma linked to poor birth outcomes in the US

New research links structural sexism and anti-LGB stigma with increased risk of preterm birth and decreased birth weight, regardless of the mother's sexual orientation. The study found that these systemic issues can limit access to reproductive health care and socioeconomic opportunities, contributing to adverse birth outcomes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalDemography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2022

A Nanocleaner specifically penetrates the blood‒brain barrier at lesions to clean toxic proteins and regulate inflammation in Alzheimer's Disease

Researchers designed a nanocleaner that specifically targets the blood-brain barrier at lesions to clean toxic proteins like A± and regulate inflammation in Alzheimer's disease. The nanocleaner, containing rapamycin and KLVFF peptide, accelerates  ± degradation and alleviates oxidative stress and excessive inflammatory response.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalActa Pharmaceutica Sinica B·DateFeb 14, 2022