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Science News for September 14, 2022


Lessons learned in COVID-19: SHEA offers guidance for antibiotic use in a pandemic

The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America highlights the need to strengthen antibiotic stewardship programs to address overuse of antibiotics in early stages of viral epidemics. The guidance provides strategies for hospitals and healthcare personnel to improve antibiotic prescribing and diagnostic testing.

SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 14, 2022

Kessler Foundation scientist Jeanne Zanca, Ph.D., receives $100,000 award to facilitate uptake of research results by rehabilitation clinicians

Kessler Foundation scientist Jeanne Zanca has received a $100,000 award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to facilitate the uptake of effective treatments in rehabilitation settings. Her study aims to improve research reporting and adoption of the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System framework.

Smoking around your young son could raise the risk of asthma for your future grandchildren

A recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that children are more likely to develop asthma if their father was exposed to second-hand smoke as a child. The risk is even higher if the father went on to become a smoker himself. The researchers suggest that smoking can damage health not only for smokers and their c...

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2022

New study published in The Crop Journal cracks the code to increasing grain size and reducing chalkiness in rice

A new study published in The Crop Journal has identified the gl9 gene variant as a key factor in increasing grain size and reducing chalkiness in rice. By introducing this allele into elite rice varieties, scientists have improved grain length, width, and weight, leading to enhanced appearance quality and yield.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalThe Crop Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Technique developed in mice could aid detection of cancer in dense breasts

A novel imaging approach developed in mice may help detect early signs of cancer in dense breasts, which is essential for improved breast imaging and prognosis. Researchers created an analytic computer program that sorts mammary gland tissue into two assessments, resulting in better detection accuracy.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 14, 2022

High efficiency and low noise amplification of ultrashort pulses by quasi-parametric amplification

Researchers have developed an ultrahigh-efficiency and low-noise scheme of quasi-parametric chirped-pulse amplification (QPCPA), achieving 56% energy efficiency for signal conversion. This process greatly suppresses parametric superfluorescence noise, enabling high repetition-rate operation and potential peak powers over 50 PW.

Genomics study identifies unique set of proteins that restores hearing in zebrafish

Researchers at NIH/National Human Genome Research Institute discovered a network of proteins necessary for restoring hearing in zebrafish through cell regeneration. The study identifies two families of transcription factors that work together to activate hair cell regeneration, offering potential insights into treating human hearing loss.

Interwoven: Charge and magnetism intertwine in kagome material

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a unique arrangement of atoms in iron-germanium crystals that leads to a collective dance of electrons. The phenomenon, known as a charge density wave, occurs when the material is cooled to a critically low temperature and exhibits standing waves of fluid electrons.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

What was left out of the founding myth of the Green Revolution?

A recent analysis by researcher Jacob van Etten found that the Green Revolution's narrative omits institutional change and neglects ethnic tensions dominating market exchange. The study highlights the importance of markets and institutions in agricultural development, contradicting the traditional technology-centric view.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalAgriculture and Human Values·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 14, 2022

Modeling antimicrobial use and resistance in Canadian turkey flocks

Researchers used E. coli as an indicator of antimicrobial resistance in Canadian turkey flocks. They found that antimicrobial use in feed and injection into eggs were main drivers of resistance. The study suggests that disease treatment also contributes to the development of resistance.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2022

Strategic brand factors that moderate the impact of business cycles on brand equity

A new study examines the role of six brand factors, including price positioning, advertising spending, and distribution breadth, in moderating the impact of business cycles on brand equity. The research finds that premium pricing, market leadership, and extensive distribution contribute to brand equity during economic expansions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateSep 14, 2022

Cultural connection improves health of Indigenous young adults

A recent study found that Cherokee youth who participated in an educational program connecting them to their history and culture experienced significant benefits to their health. Participants reported lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as increased positive mental health and cultural identity. The study suggests t...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeCase study·DateSep 14, 2022

Study examines current state regulations, public health risks of growing medicinal and recreational marijuana market

A new study urges regulators to take a closer look at the health and safety risks of the growing medicinal and recreational cannabis market. The research team found that many pesticides in cannabis cultivation were highly unlikely to be used, but still detected, highlighting the need for stricter regulations.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2022

HKU-CAS researchers make history: Biomimetic dual-color domes programmable for encryption

Researchers from HKU-CAS have created a new material that can produce dual-color spots inspired by nature, leading to innovative applications in message encryption and storage. The breakthrough was achieved through the self-assembly of nanostructures in a one-pot method, enabling programmable binary color information.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

New model to help reframe the transition to low-carbon electric power

A new model developed by Penn State researchers proposes a more flexible approach to the energy transition, considering uncertainty and option value. The model identifies multiple technology pathways that can help achieve emissions reduction goals, such as wind, solar, and natural gas with carbon capture.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 14, 2022

Are we missing a crucial component of sea-level rise?

A new study identifies areas in Antarctica's East region that could significantly contribute to sea-level rise if they undergo basal thaw. The researchers used numerical ice sheet models to simulate temperature changes at the base of the ice sheet, revealing regions such as Enderby-Kemp and George V Land as most susceptible to thawing.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 14, 2022

Dense liquid droplets act as cellular computers

Researchers discovered that dense liquid droplets in human cells can act as 'computers' by recognizing and calculating responses to incoming chemical signals. The formation of these condensates is driven by molecular crowding and can influence the activity of enzymes called kinases, which are involved in various cellular processes.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Ecologists find evidence that pet and medicine trades bring tokay geckos from across Asia into Hong Kong, impacting resident gecko populations and highlighting local and global conservation needs

New research finds that most tokay geckos sold in Hong Kong's TCM shops originated from Southeast Asia, not locally. The study highlights the need for stricter control of pet trade releases to protect this vulnerable species.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2022

Frequency-modulated continuous waves controlled by space-time-coding metasurface with nonlinearly periodic phases

Researchers develop a novel method to generate FMCWs and control their spatial propagation behaviors simultaneously using a reflection-type STCM. The proposed method reduces system complexity and cost compared to traditional FMCW signal generation methods.

Clinicians suffering burnout are twice as likely to be involved in patient safety incidents

A large-scale study reveals that clinicians suffering from burnout are twice as likely to be involved in patient safety incidents and four times more likely to be dissatisfied with their job. Burnout is also associated with lower career engagement and poorer job satisfaction, particularly among hospital doctors working in emergency med...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 14, 2022

New study in Earth Science Frontiers cracks code for future exploration of oil and gas in the Jizhong depression

Researchers identified favorable reservoir-forming conditions and modes in the Ordovician buried hills of the Jizhong depression. The study found that three sets of source rocks from the Carboniferous-Permian and Paleogene geologic periods provide adequate quantities of hydrocarbons required for oil and gas reserves.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEarth Science Frontiers·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2022

Local area code is key for reaching out to low-income smokers

A proactive phone-based outreach strategy using local area codes significantly increased connections to quitlines among low-income smokers, particularly Spanish-speaking patients. The approach resulted in a 29% higher consent rate for e-referrals compared to generic area codes, highlighting its potential as a health equity tool.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2022

Thyme among almond trees: it mitigates climate change and increases the land’s production

A new study found that perennial crops like thyme can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase soil organic carbon in Mediterranean almond orchards. The introduction of thyme among almond trees led to a greater increase in total soil organic carbon, while also improving economic productivity.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeCase study·DateSep 14, 2022

Using artificial intelligence to improve tuberculosis treatments

Using artificial intelligence, researchers from Tufts University have devised rules for faster and more effective identification of potential new drug cocktails against tuberculosis. The study developed a set of design principles to assemble drug combinations, reducing the amount of testing needed before moving to further study.

SourceTufts University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 14, 2022

Cacao: Multiple interactions in its cultivation

Researchers quantify the combined contributions of animals to cacao yields and explore how distance to forests and shading affect productivity. The study's key findings suggest that certain animal species can increase crop yields through pollination or biological pest control, while others reduce yields by stealing seeds.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2022

C-Path awarded FDA grant to establish public-private partnership to advance treatments for rare neurodegenerative diseases

The Critical Path Institute (C-Path) has established a public-private partnership with the FDA and NIH to advance treatments for rare neurodegenerative diseases. The partnership will leverage C-Path's expertise in data management, quantitative analytics, and regulatory science to accelerate medical product development.

Fuel from a greenhouse gas

A team of researchers has created a novel catalyst with single gold atoms that selectively converts carbon dioxide into methane. The catalyst, which anchors to an ultrathin zinc–indium sulfide nanolayer, exhibits high activity and CH4 selectivity when exposed to sunlight.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

UB researchers identify new model of cerebral cortex development linked to reelin protein expression

Researchers at UB University have identified a new model for reelin protein action in cerebral cortex development. The study found that cooperation and specific expression of the key protein contribute to correct cognitive skills, with dysfunction linked to neurodevelopmental pathologies such as autism and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Real time reporting of racial discrimination is associated with salivary cortisol changes in Black adults, on both the same day and the next day, illuminating the stress response to microaggressions over time

A recent study found that reporting racial discrimination leads to increased salivary cortisol levels in Black adults on the same day and next day. This highlights the long-term impact of microaggressions on stress response, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 14, 2022

Daily multivitamin may improve cognition and possibly protect against decline

A new study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that daily multivitamin-mineral supplementation resulted in statistically significant cognitive improvement in older adults. The researchers estimated that three years of multivitamin supplementation roughly translated to a 60% slowing of cognitive decline.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2022

Self-assembled liquid crystal architectures for soft matter photonics

The article discusses recent advances in self-assembled liquid crystal architectures for soft matter photonics, including smart displays, optical imaging, and light field modulation devices. The review highlights the potential of these materials for broadening knowledge and promoting diverse photonic applications.

Research team creates more effective cancer therapy

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a novel cancer therapy combining lymphatic drug delivery with total-body irradiation, showing superior antitumor effects in early stage lymph node metastasis. The treatment enhances systemic tumor immune responses and alters the tumor microenvironment.

SourceTohoku University·JournalCancer Science·DateSep 14, 2022

Penn study identifies new prognostic biomarker for heart failure

A new study has identified a potential prognostic biomarker for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), where patients with higher blood levels of endotrophin are at increased risk of adverse outcomes. The finding could lead to the development of a standard blood test to assess HFpEF patients and guide treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNEJM Evidence·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2022

Study finds higher complication rate after heart attack in people with autoimmune disease

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that individuals with autoimmune diseases are at a higher risk of complications after a heart attack. The research emphasizes the importance of controlling cardiovascular disease risk factors and developing personalized treatment plans for this population.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 14, 2022

The Lancet: New report details “massive global failures” of COVID-19 response, calls for improved multilateral cooperation to end pandemic and effectively manage future global health threats

The Lancet Commission report highlights widespread, global failures in the COVID-19 response, resulting in millions of preventable deaths and reversed progress towards UN SDGs. The report calls for strengthened multilateral cooperation, improved technology, and international health financing to address future health threats.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 14, 2022

Training a skilled technical workforce

Training programs for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workers are becoming increasingly important to address labor shortages in technical roles. Community colleges and apprenticeships are partnering with regional companies to provide career opportunities for aspiring chemists.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 14, 2022

International study led by Singapore scientists discovers bacteria previously thought harmless can worsen existing lung disease

A study led by Singapore scientists found that Neisseria, a genus of bacteria once considered harmless, can cause infections in patients with bronchiectasis, asthma, and COPD. The research team identified a specific subgroup of Neisseria called N. subflava as the main culprit behind worsening disease outcomes.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Cancer mortality rates correlate to geography as well as known behavioral risk factors

New research reveals dramatic variations in cancer mortality across the US, highlighting the importance of considering location-based risk factors for public health interventions. The study finds that certain behavioral risk factors, such as obesity and smoking, have varying levels of impact depending on geographic region.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2022

Researchers combine data science and machine learning techniques to improve traditional MRI image reconstruction

University of Minnesota scientists have developed a method to fine-tune traditional compressed sensing for high-quality images using modern data science tools and machine learning ideas. This approach closes the gap between traditional and deep learning methods, providing a new direction for MRI reconstruction research.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2022

Air pollution may spur irregular heart rhythms in healthy teens

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that air pollution may trigger irregular heart rhythms in healthy teenagers, with exposure causing arrhythmias to occur within two hours. The research analyzed data from over 300 adolescents and found a significant impact of fine particulate matter on cardiac ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 14, 2022

High cholesterol leads to long-term liver scarring and immune cell dysfunction in lab study

A lab study found that high cholesterol intake worsens fatty liver disease progression by driving inflammation and scarring. The researchers also discovered long-lasting dysfunction in immune cells responsible for fighting liver damage. Moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet, according to the study's findings.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022

Discovered key mechanisms to improve intestinal regeneration and alleviate the side effects of radiotherapy

Researchers have discovered a cellular and molecular mechanism essential for intestinal epithelial regeneration. Progenitor cells modulate the production of mitogenic factors, controlling intestinal stem cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. This finding breaks new ground in research into counteracting radiotherapy side effects.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2022