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Science News for January 25, 2022


Copycat red nectar shows promise as a natural colorant and is gecko-approved

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified a natural colorant derived from plant nectar, which has been shown to attract pollinators. The discovery, known as nesocodin, has significant implications for the food and textile industries, where synthetic colorants are currently relied upon.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

New sequencing technique established for low-biomass, degraded or contaminated microbiome samples

A new sequencing technique called 2bRAD-M has been developed to accurately identify species-level information from low-biomass and degraded microbiome samples. The method uses restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) to produce high-resolution profiles of bacteria, archaea, and fungi down to the level of species.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGenome Biology·DateJan 25, 2022

Ion pairings change honeycomb crystal states

The team used high pressure and synchrotron X-ray experiments to analyze the crystal's structure, finding a unique ladder-like pattern of vanadium-vanadium dimers at temperatures below 500K. This arrangement may enable the creation of new magnetic or electrical functions in similar materials.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 25, 2022

How we view the future may hold keys to recovery from alcohol use disorder

Researchers at Virginia Tech found that people with 'slow' life-history strategies, focusing on future rewards, exhibited positive behaviors and were more likely to be in remission. In contrast, those with 'fast' life-history strategies, prioritizing immediate rewards, faced greater challenges during recovery.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

An effectiveness study of combinatorial pharmacogenetics testing to guide the treatment of depression in adolescents

A randomized controlled trial of combinatorial pharmacogenetics testing found no significant improvement in depressive symptoms among adolescents with depression. However, the study suggests that testing results may influence physician decision-making and could be useful in specific cases where individual gene-drug pairs impact clinica...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 25, 2022

Using the eye as a window into heart disease

Researchers developed an AI system that can analyze retinal scans to identify patients at high risk of a heart attack over the next year. The system uses deep learning techniques and achieves an accuracy of 70-80%, revolutionizing the way patients are screened for signs of heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 25, 2022

New discovery shows how targeting healthy cells could help develop treatments for pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Barts Cancer Institute made a breakthrough finding that blocking PKN2 in healthy cells around tumours can change their behavior, potentially leading to new treatments for pancreatic cancer. Fibroblasts, highly mobile and invasive cells, may play both positive and negative roles in cancer progression.

SourceWorldwide Cancer Research·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

Forward-thinking gym lifts weights, shifts attitudes

A Boston gym's anti-racism program has effectively shifted views on race and class, according to a study by University at Buffalo researcher Christopher St. Vil. The program utilizes intergroup contact theory, which suggests that contact between different racial and class groups can reduce bias and prejudice.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Community Practice·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

‘Lefty’ tightens control of embryonic development

Researchers at Rice University have discovered that the Lefty protein plays a crucial role in regulating Nodal signaling during embryonic development. By visualizing the interaction between Nodal and Lefty, they found that cells relay the signal to produce new Nodals, triggering a wave of differentiation. This study provides new insigh...

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

Scientists warn that ocean microplastic pollution may be greater than estimated

A study by ICTA-UAB suggests that microplastic levels in the Mediterranean Sea are likely higher than previously estimated due to the limitations of current sampling methods. The researchers emphasize the need for a common framework to compare results and combine methods to better understand the distribution and impacts of microplastics.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 25, 2022

Multi-organoid system to simulate human liver-islet axis in normal and type 2 diabetes

Researchers developed a novel multi-organoid system to simulate the human liver-islet axis, enabling 3D co-culture of hiPSC-derived organoids for up to 30 days. The system exhibited cooperative interaction between liver and islet organoids, reflecting the dynamic interplay among organs in type 2 diabetes.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 25, 2022

Sediments a likely culprit in spread of deadly disease on Florida coral reefs, study finds

A new study found that seafloor sediments can transmit a deadly pathogen to local corals, contributing to the persistence of a devastating coral disease outbreak. Coastal construction activities like dredging and beach renourishment may further spread the disease.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

Amber fossil reveals new clues about ancient cockroach ecology

A 100-million-year-old cockroach fossil provides insights into its sensory organs, which suggest the species lived in bright environments during the day. The study found that the extinct species had well-developed eyes and a unique pattern of receptors on its antenna, indicating it may have used these to communicate between sexes.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Science of Nature·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Scientists fabricate smart heat isolator

Researchers create intelligent material that automatically controls heat transmission, enabling thermal insulation at low temperatures while dissipating excess heat during overheating. The study reveals a promising model for building thermal fields, providing new avenues for designing smart reactors for green chemical industries.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·DateJan 25, 2022

Study reveals fourfold range in rates of mental health problems among US children based on relational and social risks

A large multi-year study found that 21.8% of US children have one or more common mental, emotional, and behavioral health conditions. Relational and social risks were associated with a fourfold range in rates of mental health problems among US children.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalChild and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America·DateJan 25, 2022

AI and ghost imaging boosts super resolution imaging

A team of scientists developed an AI-driven super-resolution technique called Ghost Imaging using Deep neural network Constraint (GIDC) to overcome the diffraction limit in long-distance imaging. GIDC uses single-pixel measurements and a physics-enhanced deep neural network to restore high-quality images.

Connection to racial identity may boost body image in Black youth

A new Penn State study found that Black youth with high BMIs reported fewer weight concerns when they had a strong sense of racial identity. Fathers also played a role in shaping their daughters' body image, particularly when involved in teaching about Black culture. The findings suggest that services promoting youth racial identity an...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Scientists discover link between gut microbiota and chronic inflammatory diseases like arthritis

A recent study by Éric Boilard at Université Laval has established a link between the gut microbiota and chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. The research reveals that phospholipase A2-IIA, a protein naturally present in the gut, alters the bacterial lipid profile and promotes inflammation. This finding suggests that local ...

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

Is your seafood climate friendly? Scientists outline the benefits of marine aquaculture

Mariculture has the potential to deliver high-protein foodstuffs with a significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to terrestrial products. The authors suggest various ways to improve mariculture's sustainability, including supply chain improvements and cofarming practices that can lead to net reductions in CO2 emissions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 25, 2022

U of M researchers find machine learning supports M Health Fairview emergency departments

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School developed a COVID-19 prediction model that performed well across gender, race, and ethnicity for three different outcomes. The logistic regression algorithm created to predict severe COVID-19 facilitated shared decision-making with patients regarding discharge, reducing undue de...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Experts emphasise the role of wellbeing in human health

A new paper by Swansea University academics highlights the importance of wellbeing in health, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions. The researchers develop a transdisciplinary framework to improve 'whole health' outcomes, which has been applied to various populations and led to significant benefits.

SourceSwansea University·JournalGlobal Advances in Health and Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 25, 2022

New research reveals COVID-19 traumatic stress may predict PTSD, particularly for people with a history of trauma

A new study by Georgia State University reveals that COVID-19 traumatic stress may predict post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, especially in individuals with a history of past trauma. The findings showed a positive association between COVID-19 traumatic stress and PTSD symptoms across racial groups, except for Asian Americans.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateJan 25, 2022

USPSTF statement on screening for atrial fibrillation

The USPSTF recommends against screening for atrial fibrillation in asymptomatic adults aged 50 or older. The current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening, which is associated with a substantial increase in stroke risk. Atrial fibrillation is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 25, 2022

Improved retinal transplant technique ready for clinical trials

Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new retinal transplant technique by engineering human-derived retina sheets to lose bipolar cells, allowing better connections to host retinas and improved responses to light. The technique has shown substantial functional improvement in animal studies and is now poised for human clinical trials.

SourceRIKEN·JournaliScience·DateJan 25, 2022

New research strengthens link between glaciers and Earth’s ‘Great Unconformity’

A new study verifies that ancient glaciers caused the erosion of rocks up to 3 miles thick during the Snowball Earth period, resolving a long-standing debate. The research uses thermochronology to estimate temperature and thermal structure, finding a widespread signal of rapid cooling consistent with massive glacier erosion.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2022

Chronic marijuana use negatively impacts male reproductive health, may decrease testicular function

A new study published in Fertility & Sterility found that chronic marijuana use negatively impacts male reproductive health, leading to decreased testicular size and lowered testosterone levels. The Oregon Health & Science University study used nonhuman primates to assess the effects of daily THC consumption on reproductive function.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalFertility and Sterility·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 25, 2022

Mothers working from home drink more in lockdown

A new study by the University of Auckland found that mothers working from home and experiencing psychological distress were more likely to increase alcohol consumption during lockdown. The research, which analyzed data from over 37,000 adults across 38 countries, suggests that increased psychological distress led to increased alcohol c...

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·TypeSurvey·DateJan 25, 2022

Randomized controlled trial offers insights on how the timing of dinner and genetics affect individuals’ blood sugar control

A randomized controlled trial found that late eating, associated with high melatonin levels, impairs blood sugar control through a defect in insulin secretion. Participants with the genetic variant in the MTNR1B gene had higher blood sugar levels, highlighting the importance of considering genetics in food timing recommendations.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

Genes newly linked to longer human lifespan

A new study published in Genome Research has identified a group of genes that play a crucial role in building cellular components and may contribute to human longevity. Inhibiting these genes may increase lifespan by reducing their impact on the body later in life.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGenome Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Now you don’t see it … and now you do

A team of researchers at Rice University has developed a new method to detect tiny cracks in concrete using silicon fluorescence. The technique involves applying a thin coat of opaque paint to the concrete and shining near-infrared light on it, revealing even the smallest microcracks.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2022

Young sexual minority men and transgender women are at higher risk of transactional sex

A recent survey by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that about 22% of young sexual minority males and transgender females engage in transactional sex. The practice is associated with HIV exposure, substance use disorder, and unstable housing. Researchers plan to develop interventions to address economic and social vulnerabilities.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 25, 2022

Study probes Earth’s turbulent past to explain where oceans came from

A recent study suggests that a chemical compound called magnesium hydrosilicate, stable at high pressures and temperatures, could have stored water deep within the Earth's mantle during its violent early days. This finding has significant implications for understanding the origin of water on Earth and potentially habitable exoplanets.

Physicist solves century old problem of radiation reaction

A physicist at Lancaster University has suggested an alternative approach to calculate radiation reaction, which has sparked controversy. The proposed method considers the effects of many charged particles on each other's fields, rather than self-interaction, leading to new insights into energy and momentum conservation.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of Physics A Mathematical and Theoretical·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 25, 2022

Finding the tipping point for coastal wetlands

A recent study by Duke University researchers identified a critical salinity threshold of 265 parts per million sodium for understory plants in coastal wetlands. Above this level, the marsh floor undergoes significant changes, with rushes and reeds dominating over salt-tolerant plants.

SourceDuke University·JournalPlant Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 25, 2022

Studying the big bang with artificial intelligence

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new type of neural network that can accurately simulate the quark-gluon plasma, a state of matter present in the early universe. The networks use gauge invariant convolutional neural networks to recognize patterns and predict properties of the plasma.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 25, 2022

Study finds that patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis have worse outcomes in recovering from critical illness, compared with other cirrhosis patients

A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis had significantly higher post-ICU death rates and mortality at 30 days after ICU discharge compared to those with cirrhosis attributed to other causes. The study, which analyzed case files of 1,174 patients, suggests that early diagno...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 25, 2022

Large study provides reassurance that COVID-19 vaccination does not affect fertility or early pregnancy

A large study has found that COVID-19 vaccination does not affect fertility outcomes in patients undergoing IVF, providing reassurance to those trying to conceive. The study compared rates of fertilization, pregnancy, and early miscarriage in vaccinated and non-vaccinated patients, with no significant differences observed.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 25, 2022

New study validates benefits of convalescent plasma for some COVID-19 patients

A new international study shows that convalescent plasma, containing antibodies from recovered individuals, reduces mortality by 15% in patients hospitalized with COVID-19, particularly those with pre-existing conditions. The treatment is most effective for patients with type A or AB blood and those with co-existing diseases.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 25, 2022

Faulty BRCA genes linked to prostate and pancreatic cancers

A recent study has found that faulty versions of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of developing prostate and pancreatic cancers in men. The study analyzed data from over 3,200 families and estimated that men who carry a BRCA2 mutation have a 27% risk of developing prostate cancer by age 80.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 25, 2022

Hungry yeast are tiny, living thermometers

Researchers discovered that yeast cells can actively regulate temperature-dependent phase separation in their membranes. This process is crucial for membrane function and cell division. By adjusting the temperature, yeast cells can maintain a consistent state of phase separation, which may be essential for optimal cellular performance.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022

OU engineers build a molecular framework to bridge experimental and computer sciences for peptide-based materials engineering

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have developed a molecular framework that solves the challenge of predicting peptide structures. The framework bridges experimental and computer sciences, enabling the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence to model peptide structures for materials engineering.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 25, 2022