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Science News for May 19, 2022


NACMI: International COVID-19 registry finds significant increased risk of in-hospital mortality for STEMI patients with COVID-19 compared to pre-pandemic

A new analysis from the NACMI registry found that STEMI patients with COVID-19 have a significant increased risk of in-hospital mortality compared to pre-pandemic levels. Clinical characteristics and treatment strategies differ between men and women, highlighting the need for continued research into cardiovascular health impacts of COV...

Executive narcissism inhibits inter-unit knowledge transfer

A new study published in the Strategic Management Journal found that executive narcissism inhibits inter-unit knowledge transfer. However, when there is a high level of environmental complexity or dynamism, the negative effects of narcissism are reduced. In contrast, high inter-unit competition enhances the negative impact of narcissism.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeSurvey·DateMay 19, 2022

Music alleviates collective grief

Researchers analyze viral video of musicians covering Michael Jackson song to understand how it alleviated collective grief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study identifies key traits that allow empathy and resilience in the face of trauma, highlighting the value of music as a non-pharmacological strategy.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalBehavioral Sciences·TypeCase study·DateMay 19, 2022

The state of China's climate in 2021: A new temperature high and abnormal precipitation

In 2021, China experienced a new temperature high of 10.5℃, breaking the historical record since 1951. Annual precipitation was 672.1 mm, 6.7% above normal, with severe consequences including torrential rain, autumn floods, and heat waves. Despite some economic losses, crop area and human fatalities decreased significantly.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMay 19, 2022

Cancer death rates among Black people declined over time, but remain higher than other racial and ethnic groups

Cancer death rates among Black people decreased steadily between 1999 and 2019, yet they remained significantly higher compared to other racial and ethnic groups. The study highlights the need for improved access to cancer screening, earlier detection, and quality care, as systemic barriers contribute to disparities in cancer outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

Disrupt PAD III trial demonstrates safety and effectiveness of intravascular lithotripsy for peripheral artery calcification

The Disrupt PAD III trial found intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) to be effective in treating severely calcified peripheral artery lesions, with high patency rates compared to percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). IVL also showed reduced severe complications and need for additional interventions.

Upscale hotels benefit from EV charging stations, study shows

A new study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University finds that upscale hotels in Texas benefit most from hosting Tesla charging stations between 2015-2018. The study suggests that the benefits are due to brand alignment and the presence of nearby tourist attractions, which attract customers seeking charging services.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Travel Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

Problems in the powerhouse: Excessive degradation of mitochondria found to be a tipping point from normal, beneficial alcohol metabolism to alcoholic liver disease

Research finds that excessive mitochondrial damage caused by alcohol exposure can lead to chronic liver disease. Mitochondrial depolarization triggers mitophagy, a process removing damaged mitochondria; however, constant removal causes additional liver tissue damage.

Dietary cholesterol worsens inflammation, sickness in mice with influenza

Researchers linked dietary cholesterol to exacerbation of viral infections in mice, showing that high levels of cholesterol made mice sicker when infected with influenza. The study found that dietary cholesterol increased the number of cytokine-producing immune cells in the lungs, contributing to excessive inflammation.

DAP array casts a wide net to fix mutations

A new genome-editing strategy called DAP array can correct dozens of errors at the same time with high precision and efficiency, avoiding off-target edits. The technique leverages tRNA to drive multiple guide RNAs on a single array, then released individually by cells to direct genome editors for edits at multiple human genomic sites.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Charging a green future: Latest advancement in lithium-ion batteries could make them ubiquitous

Researchers have developed a polymer composite binder that improves the performance of silicon anodes in lithium-ion batteries. The binder, consisting of P-BIAN and PAA polymers, stabilizes the silicon particles and maintains a thin solid-electrolyte interface layer, resulting in improved discharge capacity and structural integrity.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateMay 19, 2022

How have changes in anemia care affected patients with kidney failure?

A study found that changes in anemia care policies led to lower rates of major adverse cardiovascular events, mortality, and stroke among patients with kidney failure receiving hemodialysis. The policy changes resulted from a shift towards more conservative ESA dosing, which reduced acute myocardial infarction risk.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 19, 2022

The missing piece to faster, cheaper and more accurate 3D mapping

A new method for 3D mapping uses artificial intelligence to detect correspondences and correct gaps in laser-point clouds, eliminating the need for manual data corrections. This approach enables faster, cheaper, and more accurate maps, with potential applications in construction, climate change monitoring, and road safety.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 19, 2022

World’s largest islet transplant program celebrates 20 years of changing lives for people with diabetes

The Edmonton Protocol team has reported that islet transplantation is an effective therapy for patients with difficult-to-control Type 1 diabetes, with a high rate of graft survival and insulin independence. The procedure has been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve quality of life for patients.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateMay 19, 2022

How Stockholm applied greening concepts and what we can learn from it

The study analyzed 574 articles on greening concepts in Sweden, finding that parks and semi-natural green spaces are the most common type of greening. The researchers derived recommendations for practice, emphasizing the need to harness scientific knowledge through translation and integration into decision support systems.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalUrban Forestry & Urban Greening·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 19, 2022

UCalgary study finds probiotic supplement helps to form a mature microbiome in extremely preterm infants

A randomized clinical trial found that a specific probiotic supplement accelerated the maturation of the microbiome in extremely preterm infants, leading to reduced intestinal inflammation and improved feeding tolerance. The study also showed potential benefits for reducing the risk of food allergies in these vulnerable infants.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2022

A new idea for refining the biocrude

A new study examines the nitrogen pathway in biocrude obtained from hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of microalgae, revealing key findings on NOC distribution and transformation. The research highlights the importance of reaction conditions and microalgae selection in optimizing HTL processes.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Physical activity and healthy diet during menopause help to protect from the health risks associated with increased adiposity

A study of middle-aged women approaching menopause found increased body fat, particularly in the waist area, but those with healthier lifestyles had lower fat mass. The research suggests that maintaining physical activity and a balanced diet during this life stage may help protect against health risks associated with increased adiposity.

Talking about sexual consent and expectations can improve relationships and wellbeing

A new study found that teaching affirmative sexual consent and validating anxieties around consent communication improves relationships and wellbeing. Researchers identified barriers such as shame and guilt, but also found that discussing consent can enhance the relationship, create a safe context, and clarify expectations.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateMay 19, 2022

Patient safety and quality of care: Regenstrief study explores medical record linkage with goal of improving match accuracy

A new Regenstrief Institute study evaluates commercially available matching methodologies against real-world gold standard data to identify opportunities for improving match accuracy. The study found that referential patient matching demonstrates greater sensitivity and accuracy than traditional probabilistic approach.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateMay 19, 2022

Male pheromones improve health of females’ eggs

Researchers found that male pheromones slowed down the aging of female roundworm eggs, resulting in healthier offspring. This finding could lead to pharmacological interventions improving human egg cell quality and delaying reproductive aging. The study used C. elegans as a model organism.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Watch and wait strategy could be better than emergency surgery for patients with severe levels of frailty, says study

A new study published in Anaesthesia found that a 'watch and wait' approach can lead to better outcomes for patients with severe frailty, reducing the need for emergency surgery. The study analyzed hospital data for adult patients with common acute conditions and found significant differences in survival rates between those who receive...

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateMay 19, 2022

SMART researchers enable early-stage detection of microbial contamination in cell therapy

Researchers from CAMP have identified a secreted metabolite biomarker, nicotinic acid to nicotinamide ratio, to detect microbial contaminations in human cell therapy products. This method enables early-stage detection of microbial contaminants and differentiates between live and dead bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalMolecular Therapy — Methods & Clinical Development·DateMay 19, 2022

THE LANCET: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) responsible for more than 100,000 deaths worldwide in children under five in 2019

A new study estimates that RSV-attributable acute lower respiratory infection was responsible for over 100,000 deaths worldwide in children under five in 2019. The study found that infants under six months old are particularly vulnerable to RSV and account for one in five of the total global cases.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 19, 2022

Discovery of high-speed moving plasma turbulence for the first time in the world

Researchers at NIFS have made a groundbreaking discovery in fusion plasmas, finding that turbulence moves faster than heat. This characteristic allows for predictive control of plasma temperature, paving the way for real-time manipulation. The study used advanced instruments to measure turbulent behavior with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Genomic differences selected through evolution may offer clues as to why COVID-19 outcomes vary widely

A new study analyzed genomic data from global populations to identify genetic variants linked to COVID-19 severity. The investigation found dozens of genomic variations in critical genes, suggesting these may have evolved to protect against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

Fly researchers find another layer to the code of life

A new study has discovered that rare pieces of genetic code can serve as another layer of control in the genome, essential for fertility and evolutionary innovation. Researchers found that certain tissues are more tolerant of diverse codons, particularly the testes, which may play a critical role in fertility.

SourceDuke University·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Medication treatment of pediatric psychiatric disorders reduces the later onset of substance use problems

Early treatment with psychotropic medications in children and adolescents significantly reduces the risk of developing a substance use disorder (SUD) by 30-35% for ADHD and major depressive disorder. Longer treatment durations also show positive results, especially when initiated before age nine.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

Diet plays key role in ADHD symptoms in children

A new study suggests that a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research, which analyzed data from 134 kids with ADHD symptoms, found that those who consumed more fruits and veggies showed less severe symptoms of inattention.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNutritional Neuroscience·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2022

‘Sting’ protein’s efforts to clean up brain cell damage may speed Parkinson’s disease progress

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that a protein called STING responds to clean-up signals in brain cells damaged by Parkinson’s disease by creating a cycle of inflammation that accelerates the disease’s progression. In mice with deactivated STING proteins, there was less microglial activity and brain cell death.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 19, 2022

Should all chemosensory modalities be unified into a single sense?

A new paper proposes unifying chemosensory modalities into a single sense, moving beyond the traditional differentiation between gustation and olfaction. The authors argue that this distinction is based on anthropomorphic biases and has hindered research efforts in understanding the evolution of chemosensation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 19, 2022

Poll the audience: Using data from citizen science to keep wild birds in flight

A new analysis found that citizen science data from apps like eBird can be a valuable resource for researchers and managers, offering insights into wild bird populations. By comparing publicly-produced data with officially tracked numbers, researchers have identified patterns and potential areas for improvement.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeCase study·DateMay 19, 2022

Topology is everywhere

A team of scientists discovered that over half of known 3D materials in nature exhibit at least one topological state, challenging the long-held idea that these materials are rare. The study also introduces a new concept called 'supertopological' and makes its data freely available to researchers.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalScience·DateMay 19, 2022

Epilepsy drug stops nervous system tumor growth in mice

Researchers discovered that neurons carrying a mutation in the Nf1 gene are hyperexcitable and suppressing this hyperactivity with lamotrigine stops tumor growth in mice. The study provides an explanation for why some people with NF1 lack optic gliomas or neurofibromas, highlighting the critical role of neurons in tumor biology.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

New process revolutionizes microfluidic fabrication

Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences developed a novel photolithography technique to create self-enclosed, porous channels in microfluidic devices. This process enables the creation of high-resolution channels capable of carrying aqueous solutions and separating small biomolecules.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2022

Past events reveal how future warming could harm cold-water corals

A new study identifies food and oxygen supply as crucial environmental factors influencing the vitality of cold-water corals in the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. The analysis of ancient sediments reveals that changes in food supply, rather than ocean temperature, are likely to determine the future health of these ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2022

Repurposed antibiotic may be an effective therapeutic in COVID-19 infected mice

A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that the repurposed antibiotic clofoctol may be an effective therapeutic for SARS-CoV-2 infected mice, with decreased viral load, reduced inflammatory gene expression, and lowered pulmonary pathology. Further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a treatment for COVID-19 patients.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Using light and sound to reveal rapid brain activity in unprecedented detail

Biomedical engineers at Duke University have created a method to scan and image the blood flow and oxygen levels inside a mouse brain in real-time. The new imaging approach breaks long-standing speed and resolution barriers, enabling researchers to uncover insights into neurovascular diseases like stroke, dementia, and acute brain injury.

SourceDuke University·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

SCAI issues official guidelines for the management of patent foramen ovale

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions has released official guidelines for the management of patent foramen ovale (PFO), addressing five clinical scenarios. The guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for PFO closure in various situations, aligning with stroke neurology principles.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalJournal of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions·DateMay 19, 2022

Better keep the instructions

Researchers challenge long-held assumptions about human problem-solving abilities, revealing that many people fail to adapt a sophisticated strategy. A new study suggests that individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) tend to rely on an inefficient approach, even when faced with complex problems.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Human behavior is key to building a better long-term COVID forecast

Researchers applied simple but nuanced variables to enhance modeling capabilities, resulting in improved mid- to long-term predictions. Human behavior, particularly the endogenous feedback loop of reduced mobility and social distancing after increased death rates, was found to be key to accurate forecasting.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 19, 2022

International study identifies most important vascular risk factors for dementia

A new international study has identified the most critical vascular risk factors for dementia, highlighting the importance of controlling high blood pressure and diabetes. The research, led by Professor Emer McGrath, found that individuals with these conditions are four times more likely to develop dementia than those without them.

SourceUniversity of Galway·JournalNeurology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

Within U.S., exporting electricity imports about 700 premature deaths annually, Stanford study finda

A new Stanford University study reveals that US power plants generating electricity for export account for approximately 700 premature deaths in 2019. The majority of these health damages occur within the states where the power is both generated and used, but large discrepancies exist across regions.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2022

How to break up with your phone

McGill University researchers found that participants who implemented a nudge-based intervention reduced their screen time by about an hour per day, leading to better sleep quality. The intervention also helped individuals report feeling less addicted to their phones.

SourceMcGill University·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health and Addiction·DateMay 19, 2022

First intermediate to long-term study of the harmony transcatheter pulmonary valve system validates safety and efficacy

A one-year study validated the Harmony transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) system's safety and efficacy in treating congenital heart disease patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation. The study showed favorable clinical and hemodynamic outcomes, including low mortality rates and minimal interventions.

Satellite monitoring of biodiversity moves within reach

Researchers from the University of Zurich and University of Montréal developed a method to assess plant biodiversity across ecosystems using satellite imaging spectrometry. The study found that spectral diversity calculations can capture differences in plant community composition across all ecosystems studied, allowing for targeted fie...

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

How fast-growing algae could enhance growth of food crops

Researchers at Princeton and Northwestern universities developed a computational model of the pyrenoid, identifying key features needed for enhanced carbon fixation in plants. The study suggests that engineering a pyrenoid-like ability could improve crop growth rates and mitigate food insecurity.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Plants·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 19, 2022

Ocean seafloor identified as the ultimate sink for marine plastics

Research at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology finds that 98% of ocean plastic is buried in the seafloor, with coastal habitats like mangroves also significant sink sites. The discovery resolves a mystery and has significant implications for human health and UN Sustainable Goal 14.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·TypeSurvey·DateMay 19, 2022