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Science News for June 25, 2019


Thunderbolt of lightning, gamma rays exciting

Scientists at the University of Tokyo have discovered a connection between lightning strikes and gamma-ray phenomena in thunderclouds. Weak gamma-ray glows may precede lightning bolts, offering new insights into the mechanism underlying lightning discharge. The research aims to improve predictive models for lightning strikes, potential...

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Physics·DateJun 25, 2019

A new 'golden' age for electronics?

Scientists at Nagoya University have created materials with negative thermal expansion, which can compensate for the expansion of components during heating and cooling cycles. This reduces stresses and increases component lifetime, making them ideal for use in electronics.

SourceNagoya University·JournalAPL Materials·DateJun 25, 2019

Laser light detects tumors

Researchers from Jena have developed a device using laser light to detect tumors, providing real-time information for surgeons. This compact microscope combines three imaging techniques and uses artificial intelligence to analyze tissue samples, promising faster and more reliable results than traditional frozen section diagnostics.

The making of 'warm ice'

Researchers at KRISS successfully created room-temperature ice and controlled its growth behaviors by dynamically compressing water up to pressures above 10,000 atmospheres. This technology can artificially control the size, shape, and growth rate of ice regardless of temperature.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2019

Dung beetles get wind

Researchers have discovered that dung beetles use a wind compass and sun compass to navigate, switching between the two depending on the condition. The insects' brains adapt dynamically to the environment, allowing them to make informed decisions.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2019

Algorithm designed to map universe, solve mysteries

Cornell researchers develop algorithm to visualize models of the universe, unlocking secrets of cosmology and dark matter. The algorithm uses intensive principal component analysis to extract patterns from large datasets, providing new insights into the nature of our universe.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2019

Graphene goes to space!

The Graphene Flagship partners with the European Space Agency and the University of Cambridge to launch a rocket into space, testing the printing of graphene patterns on silicon substrates in zero gravity. The mission aims to validate graphene's self-assembly properties and pave the way for its use in long-term space exploration.

Helping physics teachers who don't know physics

A new study by Ohio State University found that focused physics professional development can improve teachers' understanding of physics concepts and their teaching strategies. As a result, students' understanding of physics improved significantly. The training also increased teacher satisfaction and trust in their abilities, leading to...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Science Teacher Education·DateJun 25, 2019

(Not only) the wind shows the way

Scientists have discovered that dung beetles utilize wind direction in addition to sun orientation to navigate. This combination enhances the beetle's compass, allowing for more precise navigation even in challenging conditions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2019

Increased walking activity associated with long-term health benefits

A new study found that walking interventions can lead to sustained increases in physical activity and a reduced risk of cardiovascular events and fractures. The research followed participants with pedometer-based walking interventions for up to four years, demonstrating the long-term health benefits of increased walking activity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 25, 2019

Study looks at opioid use after knee surgery

A study found that patients who received more opioid tablets after knee surgery consumed more tablets for longer periods, while those with preoperative education used fewer tablets for shorter durations. Reducing opioid use can lead to better patient outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 25, 2019

Milk: Best drink to reduce burn from chili peppers

Researchers at Penn State's Sensory Evaluation Center found that milk significantly reduces capsaicin burn, with whole milk and skim milk showing the largest reductions. Milk's effectiveness is attributed to its protein content, which may play a more relevant role than fat content.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateJun 25, 2019

Adding clinical variables improves accuracy of lung allocation score

A recent study found that including new clinical variables in the lung allocation score improved its accuracy for identifying the sickest cystic fibrosis patients. The updated scoring system also helped patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by re-evaluating their pulmonary function testing.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 25, 2019

Microscopic glass blowing used to make tiny optical lenses

Scientists create miniature cone-shaped lenses, called axicons, using a new micro glass blowing method. The technique enables the production of robust and low-cost glass axicons with high performance vacuum packaging, suitable for integration into biomedical imaging instruments like optical coherence tomography.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateJun 25, 2019

Kessler researchers explore social cognitive deficits in progressive multiple sclerosis

A recent study by Kessler Foundation researchers found evidence for differential effects of progressive MS on cognitive and affective Theory of Mind. The study used Virtual Assessment of Mentalising Ability (VAMA) to measure Theory of Mind in individuals with progressive MS, who showed poorer performance on the cognitive ToM subtest co...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateJun 25, 2019

New osteoporosis therapy's dual effects on bone tissue

Romosozumab increases serum markers of bone formation and decreases those of bone breakdown, leading to improved bone mass and microarchitecture. The therapy also reduces the risk of bone fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJun 25, 2019

Study finds link between hypertension and air pollution

A new study published in the Journal of Public Health suggests a significant link between long-term exposure to ambient air pollution and an increased risk of developing hypertension. The researchers also found associations between air pollution levels and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, higher triglyceride levels, and ob...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Public Health·DateJun 25, 2019

No cell is an island

A study published in eLife found that doublet immune cells are more common than previously thought and play a crucial role in disease progression. The research reveals that these cell complexes can serve as biomarkers for immune perturbations, potentially allowing for early detection of diseases like dengue fever.

Analyzing the tweets of Republicans and Democrats

Researchers found that Republicans tend to focus on breaking news reports and event-specific facts, while Democrats discuss potential policy changes. The study also reveals a stark contrast in emotions expressed by each group, with Republicans showing more fear and disgust, while Democrats express sadness and calls for action.

Shorter rotations in intensive care units mitigate burnout among physicians

A Penn Medicine pilot study finds that shorter intensive care unit rotations can significantly reduce burnout rates by as much as 41% while increasing job fulfillment. The study suggests that organizations can implement strategies like truncated staffing rotations to mitigate burnout and improve physician well-being.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 25, 2019

First in vivo proof-of-concept in Steinert's myotonic dystrophy

Researchers have successfully developed and tested a gene therapy approach using CRISPR-Cas9 technology to treat Steinert's myotonic dystrophy, a devastating neuromuscular disease. The study showed that the expanded CTG triplet repeat in the DMPK gene was 'cut' and removed from the gene, reducing toxic RNA aggregates in muscle cells.

SourceAFM-Téléthon·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJun 25, 2019

Zero-calorie sweeteners on trial again

Researchers found that maternal exposure to sucralose and acesulfame-K during pregnancy and lactation led to altered intestinal flora and liver toxicity in mouse pups. The study suggests that artificial sweeteners may be safe for adults when used in moderation, but not a substitute for sugar.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJun 25, 2019

National trash: Reducing waste produced in US national parks

US National Parks produce a staggering 100 million pounds of trash each year, with managers seeking ways to divert recyclable materials and reduce overall waste. Key findings from recent research include the importance of moral norms and perceived difficulty in influencing visitor behavior.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalApplied Environmental Education & Communication·DateJun 25, 2019

Elevated air pollution could diminish health benefits of living in walkable communities

A study led by St. Michael's Hospital found that living in walkable neighborhoods can have diminishing health benefits due to increased exposure to traffic-related air pollution. The research, based on nearly 2.5 million adults from Ontario municipalities, challenges the idea that walkability always improves overall health and well-being.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalEnvironment International·DateJun 25, 2019

Changes in blood flow tell heart cells to regenerate

A study in eLife reveals that altered blood flow after heart injury triggers a signalling cascade that promotes cell growth and heart tissue regeneration in zebrafish. The findings provide insights into signalling pathways important for heart regeneration in mammals, including the potential to repair the human heart.

SourceeLife·DateJun 25, 2019

Medicare Advantage beneficiaries run higher risk of readmission compared with traditional Medicare

Researchers found that Medicare Advantage beneficiaries had higher 30-day risk-adjusted readmission rates than traditional Medicare beneficiaries for three common medical conditions. Despite previous studies suggesting better post-acute care outcomes for Medicare Advantage enrollees, the study found no evidence of improved readmission ...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 25, 2019

Radioactive tadpoles reveal contamination clues

Tadpoles from an uncontaminated wetland were placed in a canal with releases of radiocesium from a nearby reactor, accumulating the contaminant at different rates. The study found that bullfrog tadpoles reached maximum threshold levels between 11-14 days, which is faster than previously studied species like waterfowl and fish.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Environmental Radioactivity·DateJun 25, 2019

Massachusetts General study identifies pathway linking socioeconomic status to cardiovascular risk

A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital identifies a biological pathway linking socioeconomic status to cardiovascular risk. The pathway involves brain stress centers, immune cell production, and arterial inflammation, which can be targeted by lifestyle approaches such as exercise, meditation, and statins.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 25, 2019