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Science News for March 17, 2022


New strategy for designing thermoelectric materials

Researchers discovered electronic structure properties common to high-performance thermoelectric materials and developed a versatile materials design approach. The database of two electronic structure parameters correlated with thermoelectric conversion properties revealed relationships between chemical elements and material properties.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

Rapid adaptation in fruit flies

Researchers found that fruit flies underwent widespread physical and genomic adaptation within weeks, with changes documented in 60% of their genome. The study's findings suggest a new paradigm for understanding the timescale of evolution, highlighting rapid and dynamic adaptation to environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

The oxidation of volcanoes — a magma opus

A new Yale-led study reveals that arc magmas have a higher oxidation state than rocks in most of the Earth's mantle. The research proposes that this is due to hot, water-rich fluids rising through an oxidized sediment layer, producing oxidized magmas that can ultimately erupt as lava from volcanoes.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 17, 2022

Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) improves gait ability in patients with ALS

The Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) robot has been shown to improve gait ability in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), allowing them to walk longer distances with reduced assistance. The therapy sessions, lasting only 20-40 minutes per day for four weeks, also demonstrated preservation of other vital functions.

SourceToho University·JournalJournal of Clinical Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2022

How a particular protein regulates up to two-thirds of the world’s methane emission: key mechanism for methane emission in anaerobic environments is now understood, potentially helping the fight against climate change.

Researchers have deciphered the activity of B12-dependent radical SAM enzymes, which regulate methane production by archaea. The study's findings have implications for biotechnologies that control key enzymatic events and could help reduce global warming.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

Ln-doped lead-free double perovskite based ultra-broadband LED

Researchers have developed a lead-free ultra-broadband LED using lanthanide-doped double perovskites, offering improved stability and cost-effectiveness. The device shows promising applications in spectroscopic analysis and multifunctional lighting, outperforming previously reported ultrabroadband light sources.

Pioneering technique could unlock targeted treatments for cancer

Researchers have described a pioneering chemical technique that can degrade proteins implicated in cancer, potentially increasing the potency and selectivity of new and existing drugs. This technique, known as proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), targets specific structures within cancerous cells to reduce harmful side effects.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

Researchers led by Case Western Reserve University demonstrate high prevalence of cancer among men living with HIV

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered nearly twice as many men with cancer among those living with HIV compared to those without the virus. The study emphasizes the need for continued use of antiretroviral therapies and HPV vaccination to address known risk factors.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCancer·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

Huddersfield scientists first to show how coronavirus triggers immune response in brain

Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have identified a key mechanism by which the coronavirus causes inflammation in the brain's immune cells, potentially explaining some symptoms experienced by COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that adequate funding is needed to further develop this research and its potential applications.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2022

Mathematical paradoxes demonstrate the limits of AI

Researchers from the University of Cambridge and Oslo identify a century-old mathematical paradox as the Achilles' heel of modern AI. The paradox limits the existence of stable and accurate neural networks, making many AI systems untrustworthy in high-risk areas.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 17, 2022

Pamplin professor explores psychology of welfare politics

A recent study by Virginia Tech's Shreyans Goenka explores the psychology behind conservative reluctance to accept federal welfare programs. The research shows that conservatives are less likely than liberals to enroll in welfare programs without a work requirement policy, but can be encouraged through targeted marketing messaging.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateMar 17, 2022

mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines are safe for high-risk patients, shows study

A new study published in Frontiers in Oncology has shown that mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines are well-tolerated by high-risk patients with impaired immunity. The trial enrolled 566 patients and found no evidence of increased adverse events or interference with treatment, reassuring vaccine-hesitant immunocompromised individuals.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Oncology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2022

New findings on the internal clock of the fruit fly

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has made new findings on the internal clock of the fruit fly, demonstrating the role of transport proteins in regulating circadian rhythms. The study found that ions transported by KCC play a crucial role in synchronising the internal clock with external day-night rhythms.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

The first stages of DNA evolution

Scientists recreating primordial conditions discovered that dew droplets in a CO2-rich atmosphere facilitate the replication of short DNA molecules. These cycles promote DNA mutations and recombinations, leading to longer DNA strands. The findings suggest dew droplets as the first compartments for DNA evolution.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 17, 2022

Unravelling tautomeric mixtures: RIXS at BESSY II allows to see clearly

A team of scientists successfully investigated the electronic structure of tautomeric mixtures using inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) at BESSY II. They can now experimentally separate the signal of each individual molecule, providing detailed insight into their functionality and chemical properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

Promising antibody cocktail takes on Ebola virus—and its deadly cousin

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have developed two human antibodies that target Ebola virus and Sudan virus, showing promise for a powerful antiviral therapy. The antibodies, 1C3 and 1C11, can block three glycoprotein sites on the virus at once and target the fusion machinery used by the viruses to infect host cells.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

NIH’s All of Us Research Program releases first genomic dataset of nearly 100,000 whole genome sequences

The NIH's All of Us Research Program has released its first genomic dataset, featuring nearly 100,000 whole genome sequences from highly diverse participants. This dataset will enable researchers to address unanswerable questions about health and disease, leading to new breakthroughs and advancing discoveries.

SourceNIH/All of Us Research Program·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

ACC statement aims to build civil, respectful and bully-free work environments

The American College of Cardiology's health policy statement outlines organizational and individual strategies to address bias, discrimination, bullying and harassment in the workplace. The statement provides resources and tools for individuals, organizations, and professional societies to build respectful and inclusive work cultures.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 17, 2022

Holo-imprinting: A fast fabrication method for planar liquid crystal optics

The holo-imprinting method overcomes the mass production bottleneck of traditional holographic optical elements. It uses photoalignment and reflective planar LC optics to record high-quality linear polarization fields. The technique has been experimentally validated with samples exhibiting excellent optical quality.

Impacts of ENSO diversity on wintertime PM2.5 pollution in four Chinese megacities

Research reveals ENSO's impact on PM2.5 concentrations varies by region, with Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and Fenwei Plain experiencing higher levels during El Niño years. In contrast, the Pearl River Delta region sees decreased pollution in El Niño relative to La Niña due to enhanced precipitation.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMar 17, 2022

Researchers aim to discover how viruses communicate

A new research project led by Professor Edze Westra aims to uncover the mechanisms of molecular communication in viruses, which coordinate their infections and replicate in infected cells. The team will use a combination of theoretical, experimental, and observational approaches to address key questions about viral communication systems.

How cattle ranchers in Brazil could help reduce carbon emissions

A new study from the University of Colorado Boulder finds that customized training and technical assistance can help Brazilian cattle ranchers sustainably increase their production while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The program resulted in a significant impact on carbon sequestration and emissions, equivalent to reducing CO2 emis...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2022

Are e-cigarettes a “gateway” to cannabis use among adolescents? It depends on mental health status

A new study found that e-cigarette use significantly increases adolescents' risk of cannabis use, especially among those with externalizing mental health problems. However, for those with internalizing mental health issues, the relationship is reversed, and they are less likely to begin using cannabis.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

Lighting the way to healthier daily rhythms

A new report has provided the first scientific consensus on healthy daily light exposure to support sleep, alertness, and well-being. The recommendations aim to optimize lighting in workplaces, public buildings, and homes to promote healthier body rhythms and improve overall health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 17, 2022

Alzheimer’s: Protective immune cells active decades before symptom onset

A study found that microglia's TREM2 receptor is activated up to two decades before Alzheimer's symptoms appear in individuals with a genetic predisposition. This activation may slow cognitive decline and pathological brain changes. The research suggests modulating microglial activity could be a promising therapeutic strategy.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 17, 2022

ENGOT and The GOG Foundation, Inc. (GOG) announce promising first results of new maintenance therapy for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer

A Phase 3 clinical study of selinexor as maintenance therapy for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer showed a 30% decrease in hazard for progression or death compared to the placebo-controlled group. Patients with functional p53 genes saw the most pronounced effect, with median progression-free survival at 10 months longer.

SourceThe GOG Foundation Inc·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 17, 2022

Data science to help find the most appropriate rehabilitation methods for osteoarthritis patients

A study using data science and mathematical models identifies the most suitable rehabilitation method for each patient with osteoarthritis. The research aims to provide personalized treatment recommendations for healthcare professionals, ultimately leading to more effective care for patients.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalAnnals of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 17, 2022

Pusan National University scientists discover why women are more resistant to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease than men

Researchers found that female mice produce more of the FPR2 protein, which helps prevent NAFLD, and that estrogen mediates its production. This discovery highlights the need for sex-balanced animal experiments and could lead to novel treatments and gender-based therapies for NASH

SourcePusan National University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

Researchers find a ‘vicious cycle’ between excessive daytime napping and Alzheimer’s dementia

A new study found that longer, more frequent daytime napping in older adults predicted worse cognitive performance and an increased future risk of Alzheimer's dementia. The researchers discovered a bi-directional link between the two, where excessive daytime napping sped up the increase in daytime napping during aging.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

New study finds aerosolized hydrogen peroxide can significantly reduce C. difficile infections in hospital settings

New data published in AJIC suggests aerosolized hydrogen peroxide can significantly reduce Clostridioides difficile (CDI) infections among patients in large, acute-care facilities. A study found a 41% decrease in HA-CDI rates after implementing an aerosolized hydrogen peroxide system.

SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH: One in three children with disabilities globally have experienced violence in their lifetimes

Children and adolescents with disabilities experience physical, sexual, and emotional violence at higher rates than those without disability. The study highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts to raise awareness of all forms of violence against children with disabilities.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 17, 2022

Researchers develop innovative approach to measure shallow water depth with satellite data

A machine learning algorithm uses data from two Earth observation satellites to determine the depth of optically shallow waters, improving navigation and coastal management. The study focused on tropical regions but aims to generate global high-resolution bathymetric maps for near-shore shallow regions.

SourceJournal of Remote Sensing·JournalJournal of Remote Sensing·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

For youth with a heart defect, shift to adult-focused care is key to health, quality of life

Most people born with heart defects now survive past childhood, requiring seamless transition to adult-oriented healthcare. The American Heart Association updates guidelines for managing congenital heart disease in adolescents and young adults, highlighting the importance of involving individuals and families in research.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMar 17, 2022

A deeper insight into the bag of tricks of bacteria

Researchers led by Cynthia Sharma explore a vast universe of RNA-binding proteins in bacteria, which play crucial roles in stress response and virulence control. The team aims to advance understanding of these proteins, revealing fundamental biological principles that could lead to novel biotechnological methodologies or antimicrobial ...

Carbon molecular sieve integrated graphene sensor: New paradigm in atmospheric gas sensing and molecular identification

A new paradigm in atmospheric gas sensing has been achieved using a graphene sensor integrated with carbon molecular sieve functionality. The sensor demonstrates selective gas detection, including ammonia, at room temperature with a fast response time of seconds.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 17, 2022

Genetic ancestry matters in childhood leukemia treatment success

Researchers found that genetic ancestry is associated with differences in biology of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is an independent factor contributing to treatment outcomes. Children from East Asian and South Asian backgrounds had better survival rates than Caucasian children, with Indian children having the best outcomes.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

The roots of #BlackLivesMatter

A new research group aims to bridge historiographical gaps in the understanding of the Black Power movement's influence on America's democracy and values. The project will examine lesser-known groups and topics to illustrate the struggle between competing ideals of US democracy.

When and how mutant clones expand in normal endometrium

A recent study found that mutant clones expand in the normal endometrium through a rhizome structure, which arises from a common ancestral clone. This expansion increases the risk of developing endometriosis and endometrial cancer. The study proposes a new model of clonal expansion in the normal endometrium.

SourceNiigata University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2022

Global instability and the timing of Russia’s attack on Ukraine

Research by David Carter and Scott F. Abramson suggests territorial conflicts tend to emerge when great powers are embroiled in crisis, creating opportunities for revisionist states like Russia to make aggressive moves. The study found over 60% of European territorial claims were made during the most unstable years after 1815.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalInternational Organization·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 17, 2022