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Science News for May 9, 2022


More coronary disease among COPD patients

A new study from Norway found that COPD patients have a higher degree of coronary artery calcification and narrower coronary arteries. The researchers discovered an increased risk of coronary disease in COPD patients, independent of disease severity, emphasizing the importance of early detection.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 9, 2022

Nonlethal parasites reduce how much their wild hosts eat, leading to ecosystem effects

A study led by Washington University in St. Louis found that nonlethal parasitic infections reduce herbivory rates and trigger trophic cascades impacting plant communities. The research used a mathematical model and global meta-analysis to highlight the ecological consequences of common parasitic infections in wild animals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 9, 2022

Multi-tasking wearable continuously monitors glucose, alcohol, and lactate

A new wearable device can simultaneously monitor glucose, alcohol, and lactate levels, providing users with a comprehensive picture of their health. This technology has the potential to improve disease management for individuals with diabetes and other conditions, as well as enhance overall wellness through real-time tracking.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 9, 2022

Failed eruptions are at the origin of copper deposits

Scientists from the University of Geneva discover that copper deposits are formed by mechanisms similar to those causing large volcanic eruptions. The 'porphyry' deposits, containing copper, form when hot fluids release from cooling magmas and develop under the earth's surface.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeNews article·DateMay 9, 2022

How do water mould spores swim?

Researchers have developed a theoretical model explaining how water mould spores move and change direction, revealing a breaststroke-like motion for turning. The study provides insights into the biophysical nature of these microorganisms, which could lead to new avenues in physics research.

SourceCNRS·JournaleLife·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2022

COVID-19 pandemic led to increase in loneliness around the world

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found a small but significant increase in loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 5% rise in loneliness prevalence across individual studies. However, not all groups experienced this increase, highlighting the need for further research on risk and protective factors.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 9, 2022

Step toward a circular economy?

Researchers have discovered a zirconium-based metal–organic framework material that catalyzes the degradation of PET into its monomers. This process can be reused to make high-value PET products, enabling the development of a circular economy. The catalyst breaks down PET waste at 260°C with yields up to 98%

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Genetic options ensure rust resistance is toast

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have identified a stem rust resistance gene in Aegilops sharonensis and transferred it to common wheat. The new transgenic wheat lines show high levels of resistance to the stem rust pathogen, providing hope for mitigating the devastating effects of climate change.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

A better diet helps beat depression in young men

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a healthy Mediterranean diet can significantly improve symptoms of depression in young men. The 12-week randomized control trial showed that nearly all participants stayed with the program and reported positive results.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2022

Study sheds light on treatment of hyperkalaemia

A new study at Stellenbosch University identified significant knowledge gaps among medical specialists regarding the emergency management of hyperkalaemia. The researchers recommend starting therapy when potassium levels reach 6 mmol/L or higher, performing an ECG on all patients, and monitoring for hypoglycaemia.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalAfrican Journal of Nephrology·TypeSurvey·DateMay 9, 2022

Unprecedented cyclone activity potentially clouds future forecasts

A recent analysis reveals a unprecedented increase in Atlantic tropical cyclones and a decrease in Western North Pacific storms, with greenhouse gas-induced global warming potentially playing a role. The study suggests that climate models need to be evaluated to predict future changes in tropical cyclone numbers between the two basins.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateMay 9, 2022

Quantifying cognitive decline in dogs could help humans with Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers have developed a multi-dimensional approach to quantify cognitive decline in aging dogs, which may also inform human Alzheimer's disease treatment. The method combines physical exams, lab tests, and cognitive assessments to provide a more complete picture of canine cognitive function.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2022

Crystal study may resolve DNA mystery

A study by Rice University bioscientists has revealed the presence of a central metal ion critical to DNA replication and implicated in misincorporation. The research found that three metal ions are involved in the process, with the first supporting nucleotide binding and the second stabilizing the binding of loose nucleotides. This di...

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Stopping lung damage before it turns deadly

Researchers found that hypoxia can activate immune cells called ILC2s, which respond to harmless environmental allergens and drive mucus production and inflammation in the lungs. The study identifies adrenomedullin as a new target for treating inflammatory and allergic lung diseases.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

“New and improved” supermarkets trim childhood obesity in NYC

A new study found that access to modernized supermarkets with fresh foods in NYC's poorest neighborhoods led to a 1% decline in obesity rates and reductions of 4-10% in BMI-z scores. The results suggest that supermarket subsidies could play an effective role in addressing childhood obesity, especially among Hispanic and Black children.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2022

Recurring brain tumor growth is halted with new drug

A new drug called abemaciclib has been shown to halt the growth of recurring brain tumors in patients with aggressive meningiomas. The treatment targets a common molecular pathway that enables cells to divide rapidly and come back after surgery, allowing researchers to predict recurrence more accurately.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Spider can hide underwater for 30 minutes

A tropical spider species uses a thin layer of air to hide underwater from predators for up to 30 minutes, according to Binghamton University researchers. This unique adaptation allows the spider to prevent thermal loss and maintain respiratory function while submerged.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalEthology·DateMay 9, 2022

Ultrafast 'camera' captures hidden behavior of potential 'neuromorphic' material

Researchers used a mega-electron-volt ultrafast electron diffraction instrument to study vanadium dioxide's insulator-metal transition. The 'stroboscopic camera' captured the hidden trajectory of atomic motion, showing two stages with non-linear atomic motions in the second stage, influenced by electron orbital forces.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

50 years of traditional crop conservation a success but some crops still lack protection

A recent study reveals that nearly two-thirds of traditional farmer crop varieties are already represented in genebanks, but conservation gaps persist for key crops like pearl millet and potatoes. The analysis highlights areas with high diversity in landraces, such as Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and India.

SDSU researchers identify rare genetic markers of drug-resistant tuberculosis

Researchers at San Diego State University have identified rare genetic markers in M. tuberculosis that could improve early detection of drug-resistant strains of the disease, helping prevent their spread. These markers may help block common TB drugs from interfering with the pathogen's ability to synthesize proteins.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Development of an ensemble model to anticipate short-term COVID-19 hospital demand

Researchers developed an ensemble model combining multiple individual predictive models to anticipate COVID-19 hospital demand, achieving a significant reduction in prediction error. The study's findings show that incorporating early predictors such as epidemiological data and mobility data leads to better forecasts.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2022

Follow the science? Consumers aren’t always impressed with scientifically developed products, study shows

A new study from the University of Notre Dame found that consumers have mixed feelings about science in product development. When marketing focuses on sensory pleasure, consumers are less likely to buy products described as scientifically developed, but are more likely to buy them when focusing on practicality.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 9, 2022

Researchers at the GIST uncover the key to safer energy storage devices

The study reveals significant information on the thermal properties of electric double-layer capacitors, which can help create safer and more reliable energy storage devices. The research team found that charging and discharging alter the heat capacity of EDLCs, leading to a decrease in capacitance.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

What Spotify and Tinder aren't telling us

A University of Auckland research team analyzed the legal documents of Spotify and Tinder to understand their algorithmic recommendations. The study found that both platforms collect and use personal data without transparency, influencing users' choices in various ways.

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of New Zealand·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 9, 2022

More difficult than expected for glaciers to recover from climate warming

The study found that even if Earth's climate stopped warming, it would be difficult to rebuild the ice shelf once it has fallen apart. The researchers suggest that the ice shelf may not recover unless the future climate cools considerably. This has significant implications for sea-level rise and the stability of polar ice sheets.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 9, 2022

Tailoring diabetes screening by race and ethnicity may catch cases earlier, improve health equity

A new study suggests that tailoring diabetes screening for Black, Hispanic, and Asian Americans based on lower BMI thresholds and younger ages can significantly reduce disparities in diabetes diagnosis rates. This approach may improve health equity by identifying cases earlier and reducing mortality rates associated with diabetes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2022

New research pinpoints ‘blue corridors’ for highly migratory fish

Researchers at UBC's Sea Around Us initiative identified four high-traffic areas in the Pacific Ocean as crucial for conserving large pelagic fishes like tuna and swordfish. By analyzing migration routes, genetic sequencing studies, and catch distribution maps, they pinpointed 'blue corridors' where strict fisheries management measures...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSustainability·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 9, 2022

Energy researchers invent chameleon metal that acts like many others

Energy researchers have invented a device that electronically converts one metal into behaving like another to use as a catalyst for speeding chemical reactions. The invention opens the door for new catalytic technologies using non-precious metal catalysts, potentially improving efficiency and sustainability in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 9, 2022

Using virtual reality for anger control

A new study published in Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking found that virtual reality-based Anger Exposure Training reduced anger provoked by angry expression in both high and low aggression groups. Mindfulness Training also increased comfort levels in both groups, according to the researchers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

These bats deter predators by buzzing like hornets

Researchers found that greater mouse-eared bats imitate the buzzing sound of a stinging insect to avoid predatory owls. The study, published in Current Biology, provides evidence of interspecific mimicry between mammals and insects.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Chronobiologists identify key circadian clock mechanism in cyanobacteria

Chronobiologists have identified a crucial mechanism involved in the setting of the circadian clock of cyanobacteria, a model organism for studying circadian systems. The study reveals that the KaiC protein's dual ATPase active sites communicate through an interface to regulate the assembly and disassembly cycle of other clock proteins.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Why science doesn’t help sell chocolate chip cookies

Researchers found that invoking science in marketing pleasurable products like cookies decreases consumer interest. However, pairing science with practicality makes sense to consumers. The study suggests updating public beliefs about scientists and their approach to make science more acceptable for marketing indulgent goods.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

New therapy shown to be effective in women with fibromyalgia and depression

A multicentre study has proven personal construct therapy as effective as cognitive-behavioural therapy in improving quality of life and symptoms of depression in patients with fibromyalgia. The therapy focused on people's identity and how they see themselves, offering a personalized approach to treatment.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 9, 2022

Getting sticky with it: Phospholipid found to play a key role in epithelial cell adhesion

Researchers found phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2) essential for epithelial cell-cell adhesion and maintaining cellular identity. PIP2 regulates epithelial properties by recruiting Par3 to the plasma membrane, facilitating the formation of adherens junctions and preventing epithelial-mesenchymal transformation.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Exposure to wildfires increases risk of cancer

A new study from McGill University finds that people living near regions prone to wildfires may have a higher incidence of lung cancer and brain tumors. Exposure to carcinogenic wildfire pollutants on a chronic basis increases the risk of certain cancers, according to researchers.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 9, 2022

Moffitt researchers identify key factors impacting adaptive therapy

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute have identified key factors impacting the effectiveness of adaptive therapy in cancer treatment. The study found that spatial organization and competition between drug-resistant cells play a crucial role in determining the success of adaptive therapy.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 9, 2022

Keeping time with the cosmos

The cosmic time synchronizer uses cosmic rays from deep space to detect specific signatures, allowing devices to synchronize their clocks accurately. This technology has the potential to fill gaps in current time synchronization methods, particularly in remote or underwater locations.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

One in 3 people who drowned in Canada had a chronic health condition

A recent study in CMAJ found that nearly half of Canadian drownings were caused by pre-existing medical conditions, with seizure disorders posing a significant risk. Young women aged 20-34 with seizure disorders were particularly vulnerable, facing a risk 23 times higher than the general population.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 9, 2022