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Science News for November 28, 2022


Cryptoassets: New evidence shows that nested financial services could cause domino effects

A new algorithm unravels the structure of financial services on the Ethereum blockchain, revealing highly intertwined structures that involve risks not yet fully understood. The findings highlight the need for transparency and awareness among users, regulators, and policymakers to mitigate systemic risks associated with cryptoassets.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalACM Transactions on the Web·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 28, 2022

Are older women being over-screened for cervical cancer?

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that more public health data is needed on the utilization of cervical cancer screening-associated services among older women. The analysis showed that over 1.3 million women received cervical cancer screening-associated services after age 65, with costs exceeding $83 million.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 28, 2022

Understanding polar species’ behavior to reduce risk of extinction: HKU Scientists discovered the southward migration of Arctic Ocean species during the last glacial period for the first time

Researchers identify two southward migration events of Arctic ostracods in the Last Glacial Period, revealing the impact of East Asian winter monsoon on marine ecosystems. The study's findings help understand Asian monsoon dynamics and their effects on polar species distribution, highlighting the risk of extinction under climate change.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

A breakthrough in bacterial vaginosis treatment for women’s health

Researchers at Harvard University developed a Human Vagina Chip to study the effects of microbiome on vaginal health. The chip replicated the human vaginal tissue microenvironment, including its microbiome, and showed that certain strains of bacteria can help maintain an acidic environment and reduce inflammation.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

The Green Mediterranean diet reduces twice as much visceral fat as the Mediterranean diet and 10% more than a healthy diet

A recent clinical trial found that the Green Mediterranean diet reduced visceral adipose tissue by 14%, outperforming both the traditional Mediterranean diet and a healthy diet. The new diet incorporates dietary polyphenols and lower red meat intake, resulting in significant weight loss benefits.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 28, 2022

Long-standing genomic mystery about the origins of introns explained in new study

A new study led by UCSC scientists suggests that introners are the source of most introns across species, providing a plausible explanation for their vast majority. The researchers found evidence of introners in 5.2% of surveyed eukaryotic species and suggest they may be a fundamental mechanism driving genomic complexity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2022

In some settings, medical masks may offer similar effectiveness to N95 respirators for preventing COVID-19 infection among health care workers

A study of over 1,000 healthcare workers found that medical masks may be as effective as N95 respirators in preventing COVID-19 infection. However, the results varied across countries and were influenced by factors such as vaccine use and variant circulating during the pandemic.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 28, 2022

People with depression are less likely to have children

Research suggests that people with depression are less likely to have children, particularly men. The study, which examined over 1.4 million participants in Finland, found a significant association between diagnosed depression and the likelihood of having children, as well as the number of children born.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 28, 2022

Study using DNA analysis of sacrificial spider monkey suggests Mesoamerican diplomacy

A study using DNA analysis of a sacrificial spider monkey at Teotihuacàn, Mexico, reveals the earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation in the Americas. The research provides insight into ancient trade networks and suggests that the spider monkey was a diplomatic gift between Teotihuacàn and the Maya civilization.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2022

Calcifying organisms, under threat from a combination of ocean warming and acidification

A new study reveals that global warming and ocean acidification are threatening marine organisms with calcium carbonate skeletons, such as corals and sea urchins. The researchers found a clear pattern showing that species with high levels of magnesium in their skeletons become more common with warmer seawater temperatures.

SourceInstitut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC)·JournalEcography·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 28, 2022

Nanoengineers develop a predictive database for materials

The researchers have developed an AI algorithm called M3GNet that can predict the structure and dynamic properties of any material. The algorithm was used to create a database of over 31 million yet-to-be-synthesized materials with predicted properties, facilitating the discovery of new technological materials.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 28, 2022

HKUMed discovers 90% penicillin allergies labels are false in Hong Kong and proposes a new testing strategy via the Hong Kong Drug Allergy Delabelling Initiative (HK-DADI)

A collaborative research team led by Dr Philip Li from HKUMed has pioneered a new nurse-led penicillin allergy triage and testing strategy, which demonstrated its effectiveness and safety compared to traditional allergy testing. The study found that 90% of penicillin allergy labels in Hong Kong are incorrect, leading to potential letha...

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalJournal of Clinical Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

HKUMed researchers found a reduction in hospitalisations and a concurrent increase in deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 in Hong Kong: implications for healthcare planning during public health emergencies

Researchers found a reduction of 359,790 hospitalisations, but an increase of 1,873 deaths from cardiovascular diseases due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggests that some people may be reluctant to seek medical care even when severely ill.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Why silly distractions at work can actually be good for you

A new study from Trinity College Dublin and WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management found that brief positive interventions, such as watching a funny video, can help employees overcome daily challenges like annoying emails or unloved tasks. This leads to increased effectiveness at work, including better engagement, creativity, and beh...

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalWork & Stress·TypeSurvey·DateNov 28, 2022

A crystal shape conundrum is finally solved

Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to predict the shapes of crystals that lack symmetry by assigning arbitrary latent energies to their surfaces. This approach uses closure equations with arbitrary parameters to mimic nature's solution, allowing for accurate crystal shape predictions.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 28, 2022

Study finds that big rains bring big algae blooms … eventually

A new study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that while phosphorus is a key ingredient for algae blooms, other factors like calm winds, warm surface waters, and low zooplankton populations can delay or prevent blooms. Drastically reducing phosphorus use on land may be the only option to head off future blooms.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Global assessment by HKU Marine Scientists found that Oyster reef restoration rapidly increases marine biodiversity but increased restoration effort is needed to eliminate historical damage

HKU Marine Scientists found that oyster reef restoration rapidly increases marine biodiversity, with a 35% shortfall in species diversity and ecosystem services. The research suggests that long-term protection is needed to mature restored reefs into complex ecosystems.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

A genetic circuit guides microorganisms to stop fighting and work together in a cell factory

A joint research team developed a new bioprocess by introducing a genetic circuit that induces cooperation among microorganisms, leading to improved productivity. The consortium, composed of Vibrio sp. dhg and E. coli strain, successfully acclimated to the genetic circuit, increasing 3-HP production 4.3-fold over simple co-culturing.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 2022

Organ donations, transplants increase on days of largest motorcycle rallies

A study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that organ donations and transplants increase by 21% during the week of large motorcycle rallies, with 26% more transplant recipients per day. The surge in donations does not alleviate the critical shortage of donor organs, highlighting the need for improved safety protocols.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Novel sex-determination mechanism revealed in mammals

Researchers at Hokkaido University discovered a novel sex-determination mechanism in the Amami spiny rat, a species lacking the Y chromosome and Sry gene. The mechanism involves the upregulation of Sox9 gene on chromosome 3, induced by a new regulatory element similar to Enh14.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

Chinese and New Zealand scientists dive to one of the ocean's deepest regions

Scientists from China and New Zealand have made the first crewed visit to explore the Scholl Deep in the Kermadec Trench. Using a manned submersible, they collected deep-sea water samples, sediments, rocks, and biological specimens. The expedition provides new insights into the biodiversity of New Zealand's deepest marine environment.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Advances in research on surface/interface friction behaviors of the metal cutting process

A systematic review of cutting friction behaviors in the metal cutting process reveals its significant impact on tool wear and surface quality. The study contributes to the development of high-quality cutting technology by understanding cutting friction mechanisms, simulation technologies, and anti-friction strategies.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 28, 2022

Ethnic diversity and disparities in access to genetic testing impact prostate cancer development and treatment, research shows

Research emphasizes the importance of ethnically diverse prostate cancer genomics data and accessible genetic testing. Variations in genomic landscape of prostate cancer were observed in Chinese men compared to Western cohorts, with lower mutation rates in driver genes such as TP53 and PTEN.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateNov 28, 2022

Study explains formation of rich mammal diversity in Asia

Researchers analyzed 3,114 mammal species across Asia and adjacent continents to understand the origin and timing of its rich biodiversity. The study found that tropical forests are a major center of diversity, while Himalayan and Hengduan Mountains are accumulation centers with lineages migrating from other regions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 28, 2022

Americans would rather harm their own political cause than help an opposing one

A University of California San Diego study found that both Democrats and Republicans would rather take away funding from their party than give money to the other party. This preference was also seen in gun rights and reproductive rights issues, with participants willing to hurt their own cause over supporting an opposing side. The stud...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 28, 2022

Discovery of antibody structure could lead to treatment for Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus

A research team at the University of California, Riverside has discovered the structure of a human monoclonal antibody that protects against Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus. The study provides insights into fighting a broad range of viral strains and could lead to targeted therapeutics for infected patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

Neuroscientists illuminate how brain cells deep in the cortex operate in freely moving mice

Researchers created a miniature microscope that can image neural activity on a single-cell level from all cortical layers without interfering with animal behavior. The tool, developed by the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior, allows scientists to study how brain cells respond to environmental light and visual cues durin...

SourceMax Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar·JournalNature Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

Meta-analysis informed the updated WHO guidelines for treatment of uncomplicated malaria in the first trimester of pregnancy

A new meta-analysis commissioned by WHO informs updated treatment guidelines for uncomplicated malaria in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study finds that artemether-lumefantrine is as safe and possibly more effective than non-artemisinin-based treatments, including quinine, with significant reductions in adverse pregnancy outcomes.

SourceInfectious Diseases Data Observatory·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 28, 2022

How women can reduce the risk of hip fracture

A new study found that increasing protein intake by 25g a day and drinking regular cups of tea or coffee can reduce the risk of hip fracture in women by up to 14% and 4%, respectively. The study, which analyzed data from over 26,000 middle-aged women, also discovered that underweight women may experience greater reductions in risk.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Drugs from plastic waste

Researchers have developed a chemical-biological method to upcycle polyethylene waste into valuable and complex compounds of pharmacological interest. Genetically engineered fungi convert carboxylic diacids derived from PE waste into natural products, including asperbenzaldehyde, citreoviridin, and mutilin.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

Consuming a high sodium, low potassium diet can increase the risk of cognitive decline

A new study published in the KeAi journal Global Transitions found that consuming a high sodium, low potassium diet can increase the risk of cognitive decline in elderly people. Participants who replaced 1000mg/day of sodium with an equal intake of potassium showed an average increase of ~1 point on their cognitive test score.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlobal Transitions·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Rutgers researcher creates algorithms to predict arsenic contamination in private wells in New Jersey

A Rutgers researcher has created a machine learning model that can estimate arsenic contamination in private wells without sampling the water. The model identifies geological bedrock type and soil type as primary contributors to higher arsenic concentrations, highlighting the need for targeted well testing programs.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateNov 28, 2022

New analysis finds pandemic didn’t dampen deforestation

A recent study by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT found that global deforestation proceeded as expected during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite lockdowns. Deforestation rates likely remained unchanged due to persistent dynamics driving forest loss before the pandemic.

Bringing the Kelvin problem solutions to life with the first-ever polymeric Weaire-Phelan structures

A Japanese research team successfully constructed the first polymeric Weaire-Phelan structure, a previously theoretical form predicted to be the most efficient solution for a century-old tessellation problem. The structure was achieved through a novel polymerization-induced phase separation method.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

CU Anschutz researchers find less-invasive treatment for certain head and neck cancers

Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus have identified a less invasive way to treat HPV-unrelated head and neck squamous cell carcinomas by combining radiation with immunotherapy. The approach resulted in remarkable success rates, including 75% of patients experiencing major pathological responses or complete responses.

Using math to better treat cancer

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have identified a new method for scheduling radiation therapy that could be up to 22% more effective at killing cancer cells. The algorithm takes into account the differing radiation resistances of stem cells and non-stem cells, allowing doctors to predict how a tumour will respond to treatment.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Mathematical Biology·DateNov 28, 2022

Scale of impact of maternal Zika virus infection on offspring in early life

A study analyzing data from 13 studies found that approximately one third of children born to mothers infected with Zika virus during pregnancy presented with abnormalities consistent with Congenital Zika Syndrome. The most frequently observed manifestations included microcephaly, neurological impairments, and sensory abnormalities. Ri...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateNov 28, 2022

Why housing alone is not enough for some homeless moms

A study found that providing only housing to young mothers struggling with substance abuse does little to help them. In contrast, those receiving housing and supportive services showed significant improvements in reducing substance use and increasing self-efficacy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Substance Abuse Treatment·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 28, 2022

Green means GO! Ultra-violet means STOP!

Scientists at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a new system to control the behavior of nematode worms using two different light-sensitive proteins called opsins. The researchers found that exposing the worms to white light triggered avoidance behavior, while UV light stopped movement and green light restarted it.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

Study: Canada geese beat humans in longstanding territory battle

A new study reveals that standard goose harassment efforts are ineffective, especially in winter when birds should be most susceptible to scare tactics. Canada geese return to their territories despite harassment, prioritizing access to resources over energy conservation. The research team found that geese adapt to urban environments, ...

University of Cincinnati research examines workplace stress in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic

A new study from the University of Cincinnati examined workplace stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing that increased workload and perception of COVID-19 exposure were major stressors. The research aimed to provide insights for organizations to reduce workplace stress and improve worker mental health.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Work Exposures and Health·TypeSurvey·DateNov 28, 2022

Community pharmacy-led vaccination scheme helped thousands of patients overcome hesitancy around Covid-19 jabs, Kingston University London research finds

A community pharmacy-led vaccination scheme in South East London successfully supported over 6,000 patients to overcome initial hesitancy around Covid-19 jabs. The programme, which ran for six months, found that a lack of understanding about the vaccine was the biggest reason for patients' hesitation.

SourceKingston University·JournalPharmacy·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

Power to the people must include the people

A group of international scientists transformed a top-down process into one that provides electricity to remote Amazonian communities. The "Inclusive engineering" approach engages with local values and preferences, ensuring the system is maintained by the community.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 28, 2022