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Science News for August 19, 2021


Partition function zeros are ‘shortcut’ to thermodynamic calculations on quantum computers

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a new method to calculate thermodynamic properties using partition function zeros on quantum computers. By calculating the zeros of the partition function, they can determine free energy, entropy, and other properties without necessitating huge numbers of quantum computations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

‘Core@Shell’ catalyst that controls chemical reactions with light

Researchers at POSTECH developed a 'core@shell' nanocrystal technology that harnesses interfacial synergy for efficient catalysis. The innovative approach produces high-energy conversion rates and enables remote operation of catalysts, opening doors to various applications in sustainable energy and biotechnology.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2021

Study of tyrannosaur braincases shows more variation than previously thought

Researchers used CT scans to digitally reconstruct the brain, inner ear, and surrounding bones of two well-preserved Daspletosaurus specimens, finding more variation in braincase structure than expected. The study suggests that these variations may provide insights into the sensory biology and life of the dinosaur.

SourceCanadian Museum of Nature·JournalCanadian Journal of Earth Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Transformative transportation survey methods

Researchers at Portland State University developed new survey methods to address the limitations of current household activity surveys. The study found that existing methods lack social, cultural, and linguistic applicability for marginalized groups, leading to inaccurate data. By improving data collection efforts, transportation profe...

SourcePortland State University·JournalTransportation Research·DateAug 19, 2021

HKUST researchers develop technology to extend the horizon of wide-bandgap semiconductor gallium nitride electronics

Researchers from HKUST have developed a new approach to integrate complementary logic circuits into wide-bandgap semiconductor gallium nitride (GaN) electronics. This innovation enables the creation of more efficient and compact power supplies for emerging applications such as data centers, autonomous driving, and electric vehicles.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Electronics·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Geologists dig into Grand Canyon’s mysterious gap in time

A new study led by the University of Colorado Boulder has shed new light on the Great Unconformity, a mysterious gap in the Grand Canyon's rock record that covers hundreds of millions of years. The research suggests that a series of small faulting events may have caused rocks and sediment to wash away, creating the missing window of time.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Unconventional oil and gas development can lead to lightly salted surface waters

A recent study found small but detectable increases in salt concentrations in surrounding surface waters near unconventional oil and gas development sites. The research, which analyzed data from over 46,000 wells and 60,000 surface water samples, suggests that the contamination occurs several months after well installation.

A new dataset could aid climate justice research

A new dataset combines demographic and financial information to identify communities at risk of climate-related gentrification. The Socio-Economic Physical Housing Eviction Risk (SEPHER) dataset provides insights into the impact of climate hazards on vulnerable populations, including increased evictions and rising housing costs.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalEnvironmental Justice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors: Next big thing in blood flow measurement

Researchers developed a novel detector system using superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors to measure cerebral blood flow. The SNSPD-DCS system showed significant improvement in signal-to-noise ratio compared to conventional SPAD-based DCS, allowing for clearer detection of arterial pulses.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Acute emotional stress, with chronic anxiety disorder, leading to development of life-threatening cardiovascular disease

A new study published in Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications found that acute emotional stress combined with chronic anxiety disorder can cause malignant ventricular tachycardia, cardiogenic shock, and even death. The study highlights the importance of psychological management to improve patient outcomes.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

A parent’s genes can influence a child’s educational success, inherited or not

A new study led by UCL researchers confirms that genetic inheritance has a significant impact on educational outcomes. However, the study also reveals that parent genes that aren't directly inherited can shape parents' education levels and subsequently influence their children's learning environment, affecting their academic success.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 19, 2021

Patients helping researchers to advance treatments for prostate cancer

Monash University researchers have established a vast collection of living prostate cancer tumors from patients, enabling the testing of new treatments and advancing patient care. The PDX collection comprises 59 tumors collected from 30 patients between 2012-2020, providing a unique resource for scientists and pharmaceutical companies.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Study of East Africans illuminates new genetic factors underlying human faces

A new study has identified 20 genetic regions linked to face shape in East Africans, highlighting the importance of diverse populations in understanding human facial features. The findings also reveal that shared genetic factors contribute to similarities across populations, while population-specific variants drive differences.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Accessing high-spins in an artificial atom

Osaka University researchers demonstrate the readout of spin-polarized multielectron states composed of three or four electrons on a semiconductor quantum dot. This breakthrough may lead to quantum computers utilizing high-spin states, enabling faster and higher-capacity processing.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Cloud shadows cue mini-migrations

A new study reveals zooplankton exhibit high-frequency 'mini-migrations' due to cloud shadows, affecting their energy expenditure and carbon transport. The daily process of swimming up and down in response to subtle changes in light intensity may have significant implications for Earth's carbon cycle.

SourceVirginia Institute of Marine Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

HKUST researchers develop a photo-rechargeable lead-free perovskite lithium-ion battery that generates energy and stores battery on a single device

A team of HKUST researchers has developed a low-cost, lightweight, and non-toxic battery that can harness solar energy and store it in a single device. The battery uses a lead-free perovskite material that absorbs light to generate charges, offering a promising solution for sustainable energy storage.

Implementation of primary PCI in the management of STEMI in Egypt

A study in Egypt identified significant barriers to primary PCI implementation in STEMI management, including prehospital and emergency department delays. The findings highlight the need for improvement in STEMI networks, training of interventional cardiologists, and hospital policies to enhance patient care.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

The dream artificial photosynthesis technology ventures from the laboratory

Korean researchers have developed a nanometer-sized branch-shaped tungsten-silver catalyst that can acquire carbon monoxide in high yields from the electrochemical carbon dioxide conversion system. The catalyst exhibited a high sunlight-to-compound conversion efficiency of 12.1% when combined with commercialized silicon solar cells.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·DateAug 19, 2021

Rattlesnake rattles trick human ears

Researchers discover rattlesnakes' high-frequency rattle fools humans into thinking they're closer than they are, allowing for a 'distance safety margin'. The study suggests snakes evolved this smart signal to avoid being stepped on by large mammals.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

Latinos' beliefs about social status may affect their cardiovascular health, study finds

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that Hispanic and Latino adults who perceive themselves as having higher social status are more likely to have ideal markers of cardiovascular health. The study suggests that subjective markers of social status may have stronger effects on the cardiovascular h...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Adoptive transfer of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes may be less effective in patients with pretreated metastatic melanoma

Patients with relapsed metastatic melanoma who received prior anti-PD-1 therapies had a lower response rate to adoptive cell transfer of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (ACT-TIL). ACT-TIL was less effective in these patients compared to those who had never received anti-PD-1 therapy. The study found that the objective response rate and ...

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateAug 19, 2021

Tracking water storage shows options for improving water management during floods and droughts

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin tracked water storage in 14 major US aquifers over 15 years, finding that irrigation habits can be managed more effectively in humid regions. The study highlights the importance of surface water in replenishing groundwater, which helps dampen the impacts of irrigation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Junctional pacemaker may replace the sinoatrial node

Researchers propose using junctional pacemakers to replace the sinoatrial node in patients with bicuspid aortic valve and sinoatrial node dysfunction. This innovative approach offers a new treatment strategy for managing daily life while avoiding the need for sinoatrial node replacement surgery.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

Study suggests solutions to criminal justice involvement among people experiencing homelessness, serious mental illness

A new study from Simon Fraser University found that nearly 60% of people experiencing homelessness and serious mental illness in Metro Vancouver have had a criminal conviction. The study identified factors associated with criminal convictions, including irregular income assistance payments, drug addiction, and psychiatric hospitalization.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 19, 2021

Rivers are largest global source of mercury in oceans

A new study by Yale University researchers reveals that rivers are the main source of mercury in coastal areas, rather than atmospheric deposition. The Amazon River, Ganges, and Yangtze are among the top contributors, with levels highest in August and September.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Efficacy and renal tolerability of ultrafiltration in acute decompensated heart failure: A meta-analysis and systematic review of 19 randomized controlled trials

A meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials found that ultrafiltration is superior to control treatments for weight loss (WMD 1.24 kg) and fluid removal (WMD 1.55 L), but associated with increased serum creatinine levels. The use of ultrafiltration in ADHF patients is efficient for fluid management but less safe renally.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 19, 2021

Longest study of its kind reveals how gender-affirming hormone therapies impact obesity among U.S. transgender individuals

The study found that transgender patients taking gender-affirming hormone therapy should be monitored for changes in body weight and BMI. Transmasculine individuals experienced significant weight gain within two to four months of starting hormone therapy, while transfeminine individuals saw weight gain beyond 12 months.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateAug 19, 2021

Measuring electric current in soil could provide answers on soil health

Researchers at Washington State University have created a sensor that can measure the electric current produced by tiny microbes in soil, allowing for real-time assessments of soil health and potential. This breakthrough could provide farmers with valuable insights into soil productivity, enabling data-driven management strategies.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Mount Sinai researchers uncover the biology and treatment behind a rare autoinflammatory disease

A rare rheumatoid-like autoinflammatory condition is found to be treatable with FDA-approved TNF inhibitors due to the absence of a protein that activates antiviral defenses. Researchers confirm its underlying biology and mechanisms of autoinflammation, leading to quick and substantial clinical improvement.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalCell·TypeObservational study·DateAug 19, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists develop ‘greener’ way to make fertiliser

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore have devised a new method for producing urea, a key compound in fertilisers, through electrocatalysis. This approach produces urea five times more efficiently than previous methods and has the potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Researchers discover hidden SARS-CoV-2 ‘gate’ that opens to allow COVID infection

Scientists have discovered a hidden 'gate' in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that allows the virus to infect cells. The discovery reveals a glycan mechanism that opens the gate, enabling the virus to enter host cells. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutics to counter COVID infection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

How ions get their electrons back

Researchers created highly charged ions by removing 20-40 electrons from atoms and studied their interaction with solid materials. They found that the ions capture electrons from the material to become electrically neutral, a process that can be explained by simple laws.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Nutrient-rich human waste poised to sustain agriculture, improve economies

A new study characterizes human urine-derived nutrients for sustainable agriculture, revealing three supply-demand typologies across the globe. Countries with co-located supply-demand, like India and Uganda, can reuse nutrients locally, while dislocated countries, such as the US and Australia, need concentrated fertilizer production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Study identifies patterns in bird-plane collisions

Researchers from Cornell University have identified key factors in bird-plane collisions, including the time of year and species size, to inform collision avoidance strategies. The study predicts that risk for damaging strikes during periods with high migration intensity increases by up to 700%.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 19, 2021

Existing drugs kill SARS-CoV2 in cells

Researchers have identified several drug contenders that can block or reduce SARS-CoV2 infection in cells, including lactoferrin and MEK-inhibitors. These findings suggest potential efficacy against COVID-19 variants, with ongoing clinical trials to examine their ability to reduce viral loads and inflammation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

A master gear in the circadian clock

Researchers have identified a gene called Npas4 that appears to influence hundreds of other genes for timekeeping in the brain. The study suggests that Npas4 is a master regulator of many light-induced genes, which could lead to new treatments for managing challenges such as jet lag and sleep disorders.

Flawed quality control in the brain

Scientists developed a new mouse line to study protein balance and quality control in the mammalian brain. The research revealed that different neurodegenerative diseases have distinct protein misfolding patterns, offering insights into potential therapeutic options.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateAug 19, 2021

US influence on Australia’s illegal pet trade

A study by University of Adelaide researchers found that unregulated reptile trade in the US drives demand for illegal reptiles in Australia. Three reptile families had the highest probability of being smuggled, with species listed in CITES Appendices I having a higher smuggling probability

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 19, 2021

Researchers find circular RNA can inhibit metastasis of gastric cancer

A recent study by Chinese Academy of Sciences researchers found that circular RNA circURI1 inhibits the spread of gastric cancer cells. It achieves this by sequestering hnRNPM, modulating alternative splicing in gastric cancer cells. This breakthrough provides a new perspective on the molecular basis of cancer metastasis.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021