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Science News for June 10, 2021


Trapping DNA damage

Researchers at Kyoto University have uncovered how XRCC1 protein disarms PARP traps, preventing DNA damage accumulation. This discovery may lead to improved cancer treatments using PARP inhibitors.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJun 10, 2021

Anomalous weak values via a single photon detection

Researchers demonstrate a novel measurement paradigm dubbed Robust Weak Measurement, measuring an anomalous weak value with a single photon detection event. The team obtains an observable with eigenvalues in the range [-7,7] and reports a weak value of the pre- and postselected system on which a single-click measurement was performed.

Olfactory virtual realities show promise for mental health practices and integrative care

A study published in the Journal of Medical Research and Health Sciences found that scent-enhanced virtual reality technologies can improve therapeutic benefits for chronic pain, anxiety, and mood disorders. Participants reported significant reductions in anxiety levels after OVR sessions, with improvements lasting up to three hours.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of Medical Research and Health Sciences·DateJun 10, 2021

How cells measure themselves

Researchers found that cells regulate their own size by using DNA content as an internal scale. Cells with too little KRP4 delay DNA replication until they catch up, while those with too much dilute KRP4 to speed up the process. This mechanism keeps meristem cells within a narrow size range.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 2021

Soot from heaters and traffic is not just a local problem

A study by the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research found that soot particles from oil and wood heating systems as well as road traffic contribute significantly to air pollution in Europe. The researchers estimated that 48% of local soot emissions and 52% of long-distance soot emissions reached the measurement site.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateJun 10, 2021

Moral disgust has a 'bad taste'

A study found that witnessing moral transgressions can inhibit tongue movements, similar to tasting something unpleasant. This reaction may reflect an avoidance-defensive mechanism, adapting as a response to shared moral norms.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateJun 10, 2021

Ion and lipid transporters specialize for their niche

Researchers have discovered that ion and lipid transporters have evolved distinct structural features to optimize the transport of their respective substrates. Crystal structures reveal a pump primed for dephosphorylation in Ca2+-ATPase, while a novel mechanism is uncovered in P4-ATPases, enabling efficient lipid flippase activity.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateJun 10, 2021

Discovery of ray sperms' unique swimming motion and demonstration with bio-inspired robot

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered that ray sperms rotate both their head and tail to move, creating a heterogeneous dual helix propulsion system. This unique motion provides high environmental adaptability and efficiency, enabling bidirectional swimming and maneuverability in various viscosities.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2021

Active platinum species

Researchers investigated individual platinum atoms and small clusters on special zeolite supports, finding they are significantly more active than larger clusters in splitting oxygen. Platinum clusters also dominate CO oxidation, while individual atoms enable efficient methane combustion.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 10, 2021

Researchers' algorithm to make CRISPR gene editing more precise

Researchers have developed a new method to select efficient gRNA molecules for CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, achieving high efficiency and precision. The algorithm uses deep learning and large datasets to predict the efficiency of gRNAs, promising improved outcomes in genetic disorders and biotechnology applications.

New method makes generic polymers luminescent

Researchers have successfully developed a new method to give luminescent properties to generic polymers like polystyrene and polyethylene. The technique makes it possible to easily prepare luminescent polymers without complicated organic synthetic methods.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 10, 2021

Three factors may predict college students' loss of self-control, WVU study finds

A West Virginia University study found that college students' initial status of self-control is partly dependent on their willingness to try new things and their maternal attachment. Students who are less interested in trying new things and have a secure attachment to their mothers tend to maintain stable control throughout the year. C...

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalJournal of Applied Developmental Psychology·DateJun 10, 2021

Research establishes safe water thresholds for antimicrobials, to help mitigate resistance

Researchers developed a new framework to establish safe thresholds for antimicrobial release into the environment, addressing the global health threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The framework provides guidance on risk assessment and could inform policy to reduce antimicrobial levels in water systems, helping to mitigate resistance.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalWater Research·DateJun 10, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among patients with breast cancer

A survey study among women with breast cancer in Mexico found a high hesitancy rate toward COVID-19 vaccination due to concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to address these concerns and improve access to vaccination services for this vulnerable population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJun 10, 2021

More sustainable mortars and concrete with optimal thermal and mechanical efficiency

The University of the Basque Country's research team has created mortars and concretes with optimal thermal and mechanical efficiency, replacing natural materials with industrial by-products. The new materials have good thermal conductivity and are suitable for use in radiant floor heating systems, reducing CO2 emissions.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalJournal of Building Engineering·DateJun 10, 2021

Pinpointing how cancer cells turn aggressive

A team of scientists has developed a new method for tracing the lineage and gene expression patterns of metastatic cancer cells at the single-cell level. The researchers found that a spectrum of aggression exists in cancer cells, with some cells more likely to remain in place and others more likely to spread to other tissues.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalCancer Cell·DateJun 10, 2021

Researchers use transoceanic fiber link for geophysical sensing

Scientists demonstrate a new technique to sense geophysical events using transoceanic fiber optic cables, offering potential for early warnings of tsunamis and earthquakes. The method measures tiny changes in polarization of transmitted light, enabling monitoring of previously inaccessible ocean depths.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJun 10, 2021

Future falls risk detected by a simple bone density scan

A study published in Atherosclerosis has found that the build-up of calcium in major blood vessels is linked to a 39% higher risk of serious falls in older women. The research used bone density scans to identify abdominal aortic calcification, which can be detected early on, and may help health professionals to prevent future falls.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateJun 10, 2021

New method eliminates interference of nicotine in detection of methamphetamine

Researchers developed a homemade ion mobility spectrometry method to detect methamphetamine without nicotine interference. The optimized temperature and pyridine concentration resolved overlapping spectral peaks, providing high selectivity and a low limit of detection for MA detection.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 10, 2021

Latest tests on 6G return surprising results

A recent study published in Proceedings of the IEEE reveals that high-frequency signals can be managed more effectively than previously thought, addressing key challenges in 6G technology. The research has significant implications for applications such as haptic internet, mobile edge computing, and holographic communication.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the IEEE·DateJun 10, 2021

A new mechanism behind continuous stem cell activity in plants

Researchers identified a novel vascular cell maintenance system where BEH3 competes with other transcription factors to stabilize vascular stem cell multiplication and differentiation. They also found that BEH3 hinders the activity of other BES/BZR transcription factors, indicating its opposing function in regulating vascular stem cells.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJun 10, 2021

Hush little baby don't say a word...

Children with documented child protection concerns are four times as likely to die before their 16th birthday due to family abuse and neglect. The study found a significant excess risk of death among boys and girls with the most serious child protection concerns, highlighting the need for improved services.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJun 10, 2021

For bay oysters, protection plus restoration creates healthiest reefs

A new study from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center found that actively restoring oyster reefs can create healthier habitats than simply protecting them. The study used underwater videos to rate habitats and found that restored reefs earned the highest scores for oyster habitat, with 74% receiving a top ranking.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateJun 10, 2021

Chamoli disaster could happen again

Researchers analyzed the causes and scope of the devastating Chamoli flood, which killed over 200 people and destroyed two hydropower plants. The study used satellite imagery and digital models to reconstruct the event, highlighting the risks of hydropower projects in fragile alpine ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·DateJun 10, 2021

How gender norms and job loss affect relationship status

A study by Pilar Gonalons-Pons and Markus Gangl found that unemployment affects romantic relationships more strongly in countries with strict gender norms. The researchers discovered a stronger association between men's unemployment and relationship breakup in societies where masculinity is tied to breadwinning, highlighting the signif...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateJun 10, 2021

A better understanding of 'wet markets' is key to safeguarding human health, biodiversity

Researchers argue that targeting high-risk wet markets, particularly those selling live wild animals, can mitigate future infectious disease outbreaks while minimizing disruption to food supply chains. These informal markets pose little risk to human health or biodiversity, with most selling processed domesticated animals.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJun 10, 2021

Combating maritime litter

A study categorizes existing solutions for combating maritime litter, revealing a need for more developed technologies and integrated approaches. The researchers recommend defining standards for each solution to encourage further development and create a sustainable approach.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 10, 2021

As a decade of ecosystem restoration kicks off, don't forget the people

Researchers have found that restoration action is at risk of failure if it doesn't consider the social and political dimensions of the effort. Key findings include a successful kelp restoration project centered on indigenous worldviews, and a lake restoration project whose main beneficiaries were well-heeled urban residents.

Observing quantum coherence from photons scattered in free-space

Scientists have successfully transferred and recovered quantum coherence from photons scattered in free-space for the first time, paving the way for new applications in quantum communication, imaging, and sensing. The novel technique uses custom hardware to maintain coherence even after scattering from a diffuse surface.

LIM domain only 1: One gene, many roles in cancer

The LMO1 gene codes for a protein that regulates RNA production and is implicated in cancer formation. Researchers found that overexpression of LMO1 is associated with poor patient outcomes in different cancers. Further study of LMO1 may lead to targeted therapies for various types of cancer.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·DateJun 10, 2021

Cell Phone Use While Driving May Be Tied to Other Risky Road Behaviors in Young Adults

A study found that frequent cell phone use while driving is associated with other risky driving practices in young adults, including impulsivity and sensation seeking. The study suggests that targeting all risky behaviors rather than just cell phone use may be more effective in preventing crashes.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateJun 10, 2021

Binding of a second CO molecule observed

Researchers at University of Freiburg discover how vanadium-dependent nitrogenase binds two CO molecules simultaneously, enabling reductive process for industrial applications. This breakthrough sheds new light on the mechanistic principles behind nitrogenase's ability to reduce toxic gas carbon monoxide.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 10, 2021

Hydrogen sulfide critical to innate ability of bacteria to survive antibiotics

Researchers discovered that blocking bacterial H2S biogenesis strengthens antibiotics by inhibiting persister formation and biofilm growth, offering a novel alternative to traditional antibiotic discovery. The study suggests using small molecule potentiators to enhance the effect of major classes of clinically important antibiotics.

'Disagreeable' married men who shirk domestic responsibilities earn more at work

A recent study from the University of Notre Dame found that disagreeable married men who do not contribute equally to household chores often have higher salaries due to increased focus on their careers. This phenomenon suggests that imbalanced social exchanges at home, particularly with spouses, play a crucial role in determining indiv...

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateJun 10, 2021

Bacteria hijack latent phage of competitor

Researchers have discovered a highly selective phage activation mechanism based on signal molecules in bacterial ecosystems. The study reveals that a specific bacterium produces a signal molecule that triggers the conversion of a latent phage into an active parasite, offering new possibilities for phage therapies and biotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 10, 2021

Say goodbye to your camera bump: uOttawa researchers miniaturize optics by discovering counterpart to lens

Researchers from uOttawa propose a new optical element called spaceplate, which simulates light spreading in a small device, enabling the miniaturization of optical systems. This technology has potential applications in fields like healthcare, where thin cameras or endoscopes could be used to visualize internal organs.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 10, 2021