Weed zapping
Researchers found that electrocution treatments can eliminate up to 97% of late-season, herbicide-resistant waterhemp plants. The treatments also reduced weed seed viability by 54-80%, with some studies showing yield losses of 11-26%.
Science News for August 1, 2022
Trends in binge drinking, heavy alcohol consumption among pregnant women
Binge drinking and heavy alcohol consumption increased significantly among pregnant women between 2011 and 2020. The average annual percentage change for these behaviors was greater among pregnant women compared to nonpregnant women.
Bacteria use genetic switch to defend death by metals
Researchers discovered a genetic switch in group B streptococcus that helps it resist metal stress, including zinc and copper. This 'cross-talk' mechanism allows the bacterium to survive in the human body's immune system.
New dog food? Study shows Fido's gut bacteria could turn over within a week
A new study from the University of Illinois found that dog gut bacteria can change rapidly after introducing a new diet, with microbial turnover occurring in under a week. The research also confirmed previous findings on the health benefits of high-fiber diets over high-fat and high-protein diets.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalAnimal Microbiome·DateAug 1, 2022
A new goal of floc sludge: As an electrode material for high-performance capacitors
Researchers developed a facile method to transform floc sludge into porous carbon matrix composites for use as an electrode material in high-performance supercapacitors. The treatment process improved conductivity, mass transfer efficiency, and electrochemical performance.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Adaptive weight loss intervention study to test telehealth behavioral interventions
A multisite clinical trial will deliver behavioral interventions to over 1,000 adults aged 50 and older with excess weight and cardiometabolic risk factors. The adaptive treatment model tests an evidence-based video program against a program with problem-solving therapy delivered via videoconferencing.
Could acupuncture help ward off diabetes?
A new study from Edith Cowan University found that acupuncture therapy significantly improved fasting plasma glucose, two-hour plasma glucose, and glycated haemoglobin levels in people with prediabetes. The therapy also showed a greater decline in the incidence of prediabetes without adverse reactions.
US-based Neuro-Horizon Pharma licenses promising compounds from NTU Singapore to combat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a series of chemical-based compounds that could be potential drug candidates for treating pulmonary tuberculosis. The compounds were licensed by US-based Neuro-Horizon Pharma LLC for commercialization.
The Journal of Nuclear Medicine sheds light on the challenges of medical practice in wartime Ukraine
The Journal of Nuclear Medicine publishes a first-hand account of daily nuclear medicine practice in Kyiv, Ukraine, where physicians face constant bombing and shelling. Despite the challenges, Dr. Kmetyuk expresses gratitude for international support and hope for the future of Ukrainian medical professionals.
SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateAug 1, 2022
New GSA Bulletin articles published ahead of print in July
A field study on a periglacial alluvial fan in Canada reveals moderate flow events can entrain significant sediment, challenging Martian fan interpretation. Meanwhile, researchers decipher the genesis of Xikuangshan, China's largest Sb deposit, through He-Ar isotope and C-O-Sr-Nd isotopes analysis.
A new learning method could help people with autism improve visual perception capabilities
Researchers propose a new learning method for individuals with autism, utilizing 'memory flashes' to accelerate learning and improve visual perception capabilities. The study showed significant improvement in both learning speed and generalization of skills, even under new conditions.
Comparison of two nano rulers
Scientists at University Hospital Bonn compared PELDOR and FRET spectroscopy methods to measure distances in protein molecules. While most results were comparable, inconsistencies were found in two cases, highlighting the importance of re-measurement with another nano ruler.
Study shows fewer people tried to quit smoking during COVID-19 pandemic
The study found that attempts to quit smoking declined significantly among certain groups, including Black people, those with comorbidities, and lower educated individuals. The data showed a decline in NRT product sales, indicating reduced quitting efforts.
Super-earth skimming habitable zone of red dwarf
A super-Earth planet, Ross 508 b, has been discovered near the habitable zone of a red dwarf star 37 light-years from Earth. The planet's orbit is elliptical, potentially placing it in the habitable zone for part of its orbit.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2022
3D printing process created by Rutgers researchers is faster and more precise than conventional methods
The new approach uses a single gantry to print individual or multiple parts simultaneously, increasing printing resolution and size while significantly decreasing printing time. MF3's software optimizes the gantry arm's movement and determines when nozzles should be turned on and off for highest efficiency.
Association of tobacco use during pregnancy with preadolescent brain development
A study of 2,700 children in the Netherlands found a possible association between maternal smoking and suboptimal brain development among offspring. The research suggests that tobacco use during pregnancy may impact preadolescent brain development.
Study finds cable news networks have grown more polarized
A study analyzed 10 years of cable TV news and found that networks like Fox and MSNBC have shifted further to the right and left, respectively. The ideological gap between channels became extreme after the 2016 Presidential election, particularly in primetime programming.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2022
Iron buildup in brain linked to higher risk for movement disorders
Researchers found substantial iron deposits in motor circuits of the brain in individuals with high genetic risk for hereditary hemochromatosis, increasing risk for Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. Males were more affected than females due to natural processes.
NIH updates Hepatitis B Strategic Research Plan
The National Institutes of Health has updated its Strategic Plan to Cure Hepatitis B, focusing on developing a cure and improving vaccination, screening, and follow-up care strategies. The revised plan aligns with the Department of Health and Human Services' Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan.
New study finds global forest area per capita has decreased by over 60%
A new study found that the global forest area per capita has declined by over 60% from 1960 to 2019, due to 81.7 million hectares of loss. This decline threatens biodiversity and affects the lives of 1.6 billion people worldwide.
Study examines ‘black boxing’ in breast cancer survivorship care
A researcher studied the 'black box' phenomenon in breast cancer survivorship care, revealing communication gaps between women and their providers. She found that black boxing can hide service access complexities, emphasizing the need for improved information pathways to address post-treatment needs.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateAug 1, 2022
Legacy of ancient ice ages shapes how seagrasses respond to environmental threats today
Scientists discovered that ancient eelgrass migration and Pleistocene ice ages left lasting signatures in their DNA, impacting size, structure, and community composition. Genetic legacy played a stronger role than the present-day environment in determining these traits.
SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 1, 2022
Most but not all Texas coaches say they’ll plan for climate change
A survey of Texas coaches and athletic officials revealed that many are aware of the risks of outdoor workouts during extreme heat, but some don
Women’s Preventive Services Initiative issues guidelines for preventing obesity in midlife women
The Women's Preventive Services Initiative issues guidelines for preventing obesity in midlife women, recommending counseling on healthy eating and physical activity. The guideline aims to mitigate concerns about weight stigma by normalizing counseling among all midlife women, regardless of BMI status.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 1, 2022
Diets higher in calcium and potassium may help prevent recurrent symptomatic kidney stones, Mayo Clinic study finds
A Mayo Clinic study found that diets rich in calcium and potassium can help prevent recurrent symptomatic kidney stones. Patients who experienced a first-time stone were more likely to experience recurrence if their diet was low in these nutrients.
When heart-assisting implants could save a life, patients who are Black or female don’t get them as often
A new study reveals racial and gender disparities in access to life-saving heart-assisting implants, with Black patients and women facing lower rates of surgery. Despite similar survival rates, the findings suggest that unconscious bias may be influencing healthcare provider decisions.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2022
Change in calories purchased after calorie labeling of prepared foods in a supermarket chain
Calorie labeling in supermarkets leads to small to moderate decreases in calories purchased, potentially translating to population-level health benefits. The study found declines seven months after labeling implementation, affecting prepared bakery and deli items.
Using smartphones could help improve memory skills
A new study published in Journal of Experimental Psychology: General found that using digital devices as external memory can improve memory skills. Participants who used digital devices to store information showed improved memory for both saved and unsaved information, with a notable increase in recall of less important details.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
New CABI-led study highlights institutional and policy bottlenecks to Integrated Pest Management in Africa
A new CABI-led study identifies key institutional and policy barriers to the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Africa. Despite its potential for economic and environmental benefits, IPM's uptake is patchy due to regional and national agricultural policies prioritizing production over sustainability.
Research links red meat intake, gut microbiome, and cardiovascular disease in older adults
A new study found that higher red meat consumption is linked to a 22% increased risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults, with gut bacterial metabolites like TMAO playing a key role. The study also suggests that traditional ASCVD risk pathways like blood cholesterol and blood pressure may be less important than previously thought.
SourceTufts University·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2022
Two heart medications tied to greater heart-attack risk during very hot weather
A new study found that people taking beta-blockers or antiplatelet medications are more likely to have heart attacks during hot weather. The study, which analyzed data from 2,494 cases in Germany, suggests that these medications may render some individuals more vulnerable to heat-related heart attacks.
Scientists now understand the genetics responsible for leaf mimicry in butterfly wings
Researchers uncover the 'cortex' gene responsible for leaf mimicry in Kallima butterflies, revealing a complex interplay between genetics and environmental pressures. The study provides insights into the evolution of this remarkable adaptation and its potential applications in understanding biodiversity.
Fiddler crab eye view inspires Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers to develop novel artificial vision
Researchers from GIST have developed an amphibious artificial vision system with a panoramic field-of-view based on the Fiddler crab's eye structure. The system overcomes limitations of current artificial visions, enabling imaging in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Destroying tumor cells: Targeted immunotherapy using injectable materials
Researchers at TIBI developed a minimally invasive method for targeted delivery of immunotherapeutic treatments, resulting in slower tumor growth and higher activation of T-cells. The injectable gelatin biomaterial containing silicate nanoplatelets showed sustained drug release and controlled ICI delivery.
SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
NIH continues supporting K-State neuroscience research center with $11.2 million grant
The Cognitive and Neurobiological Approaches to Plasticity Center (CNAP) at Kansas State University will continue its neuroscience research, thanks to a $11.2 million NIH grant. The funding will support junior faculty development and infrastructure upgrades for neuroplasticity research.
Junk food advertising restrictions prevent almost 100,000 obesity cases and is expected to save the NHS £200m
New research finds junk food advertising restrictions have prevented 94,867 fewer obesity cases, 2,857 fewer diabetes cases, and 1,915 fewer cardiovascular disease cases. The policy is estimated to save the NHS £218 million over its lifetime.
SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2022
HSE researchers identified the age-related changes in gamma-band oscillations in auditory cortex in children
Researchers used magnetoencephalography to study age-related changes in gamma-band oscillations in the auditory cortex of typically developing children. The results showed that power increased with age and cortical localization changed, indicating an age-related shift in the balance between excitation and inhibition.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalHuman Brain Mapping·DateAug 1, 2022
Signaling ‘stressed-out’ plants
Researchers have discovered that reactive oxygen species (ROS) can serve as a communication signal to indicate plant stress, which is critical for crop survival and can significantly decrease with multiple stressors. By monitoring ROS levels, farmers can identify plants under stress and take corrective measures to prevent crop loss.
Research Brief: The role of behavioral medicine in addressing climate-change related health inequities
The article highlights six strategies for addressing climate-related health inequities, including adopting standards for sociopolitical constructs and centering marginalized community voices. Researchers emphasize the importance of dismantling structural racism, environmental justice efforts, and effective communication strategies.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalTranslational Behavioral Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 1, 2022
Nano-sponges with potential for rapid wastewater treatment
Researchers developed a novel composite material of COF and graphene that shows high and rapid adsorption capacity for organic pollutants. The material, consisting of a nanoporous, ultrathin covalent organic framework (COF) anchored on graphene, can filter out organic dyes from water efficiently.
Leukemia vulnerability discovered causing drug sensitivity
Leukemia cells exploit metabolic pathways to evade programmed cell death, but researchers identified a weak spot in acute lymphoblastic leukemia that can be targeted with experimental drugs. Inhibiting glutathione metabolism induces ferroptosis, leading to the death of malignant lymphocytes.
SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalRedox Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Predicting patients’ race can improve equity in health care delivery
Researchers argue that using tools to estimate racial and ethnic information can identify algorithmic bias and combat disparities in healthcare. This approach can lead to more equitable pay-for-performance schemes and better clinical decision-making.
The lining of children’s noses may provide protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection
Researchers found that ancestral SARS-CoV-2 replicates less efficiently in pediatric nasal epithelial cells, with a heightened antiviral response. This protection is not observed with the Omicron variant, highlighting the need for further study on emerging variants.
Variant type and patient sex affect molnupiravir efficacy, study finds
Molnupiravir's efficacy is affected by SARS-CoV-2 variant type and biological sex of patients, according to the study. The drug showed variable results in dwarf hamsters infected with omicron, but was more effective in males than females.
VegSense makes sense for forest studies
Researchers developed VegSense, an open-source application that uses a Microsoft HoloLens to quantify mature trees in the wild. The device excels at detecting relatively healthy forests by capturing vegetation patterns with a holograph-like grid pattern.
SourceRice University·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Largest international effort to improve mental health and wellbeing of health professionals and patient safety
The Magnet4Europe project, a 4 million Euro initiative, aims to transform hospital work environments to improve clinician and patient wellbeing. The randomized trial in 130 hospitals across 7 countries found that burnout is an individual manifestation of organizational flaws, which can be addressed through evidence-based interventions.
Increased heart disease risk from red meat may stem from gut microbe response to digestion
Research suggests that chemicals produced by gut microbes after eating red meat may contribute to cardiovascular disease. The study found a 22% higher risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease associated with increased red meat consumption, which was partly attributed to elevated levels of TMAO and related metabolites in the blood.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·DateAug 1, 2022
Engineers repurpose 19th-century photography technique to make stretchy, color-changing films
Researchers developed a new printing technique that applies a 19th-century color photography method to modern holographic materials, producing large-scale images on elastic materials with structural color. The team's results enable the creation of pressure-monitoring bandages, shade-shifting fabrics, or touch-sensing robots.
A molecule of light and matter
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have measured the binding state of light and matter for the first time, creating an attractive force between ultracold atoms. This effect can be used to control and manipulate extreme temperatures and may also play a role in the formation of molecules in space.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Newts unleashed: Limb muscle regeneration needs metamorphosis and body growth
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba discovered that changes in the extracellular environment during metamorphosis and body growth enable newt muscle fibers to dedifferentiate and contribute to limb regeneration. This process is crucial for newts' ability to regenerate limbs throughout their life cycle.
3D model of brain tumor environment could aid personalized treatment
Virginia Tech scientists have developed a novel 3D tissue-engineered model of the glioblastoma tumor microenvironment to learn why tumors return and what treatments will be most effective. The model accounts for cell types, fluid flow, and other aspects of the actual tumor environment, allowing for easy testing of drug therapies.
SourceVirginia Tech·Journalnpj Precision Oncology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 1, 2022
Story tips: Drought-resistant crops, hydropower, AI for atomic measurement, controlling refrigerants and recycling e-waste
Researchers at ORNL developed a theory that thylakoids help plants tolerate harsh conditions, while a digital platform informs on hydropower development. AI-powered neutron scattering can also accelerate experiments, and e-waste recycling is being explored.
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
New method to promote biofilm formation and increase efficiency of biocatalysis
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new method to boost biocatalytic activity using synthetic polymers that stimulate biofilm formation. The study found that hydrophobic polymers outperform mildly cationic polymers, increasing biomass and biocatalytic activity in E. coli.
Pain, pain go away, help our children run and play
A new study from the University of South Australia identifies five key approaches for parents and caregivers to discuss everyday pain with young children. Teaching children that they can control their pain and empowering them to actively engage in pain management can promote lifelong helpful pain behaviors and encourage recovery. By he...
New study provides insight for how congenital heart defects manifest
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that cells lining the heart direct cardiac muscle growth and outlined a complex mechanism regulating this process. The discovery may help develop better techniques for regenerating heart tissue and prevent congenital heart defects.
SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalCirculation Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
A flexible device that harvests thermal energy to power wearable electronics
University of Washington researchers have created a flexible, wearable thermoelectric device that converts body heat into electricity. The device's stretchable and efficient properties enable seamless integration into wearables and soft robotics.
Life expectancy drops for Native Americans due to COVID-19
COVID-19's impact on Native Americans led to a significant decline in life expectancy, with mortality rates surging due to chronic diseases and limited access to healthcare. The pandemic exacerbated existing social and economic inequities, further hindering the population's health.
SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalDemographic Research·DateAug 1, 2022
New egg recipe to boost fertility research
Researchers at Kyoto University's Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology have developed a new method to culture human fetal immature germ cells into oocytes. The study found that essential controlling mechanisms are similar across mouse, monkey, and human species, while certain genes are expressed only in humans and monkeys.
‘A mystery across the centuries’ solved
Researchers from the University of Tokyo have proposed a two-step regulatory mechanism that shapes centromere distribution, revealing its role in maintaining genome integrity. The study found that precise control of centromere spatial arrangement is required for organ growth in response to DNA damage stress.
Study finds nickelate superconductors are intrinsically magnetic
Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have discovered that nickelate superconductors are always magnetized, whether in their normal or superconducting state. This finding highlights the fundamental properties of these materials and provides insight into how unconventional superconductors carry electric current with no loss.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Modeling reveals how dwarf planet Ceres powers unexpected geologic activity
A team of scientists used modeling to reveal that Ceres's interior decays radioactive elements, generating heat and powering geological activity. This process is different from the typical hot-cool pattern seen in larger planets, with similarities to Uranus's moons
Quantum control for advanced technology: Past and present
A new review paper assesses recent progress in controlling quantum systems and applies it to emerging technologies, highlighting the need for a unified theoretical framework. The authors identify roadblocks that must be overcome to manifest a future quantum technological landscape.
Aging | Aging the brain: multi-region methylation principal component based clock in the context of Alzheimer’s disease
A new study introduces a novel epigenetic predictor, PCBrainAge, that captures aging heterogeneity across multiple brain regions. The tool demonstrates stronger associations with AD dementia and pathologic AD compared to existing age predictors.
Monkeypox: New agents to combat a dangerous pathogen
Scientists develop new approaches to combating poxviruses, including exploring substances that interfere with viral transcription and visualizing gene expression machinery at the atomic level.
New US population study projects steep rise in cardiovascular diseases by 2060
Projected rates of cardiovascular risk factors and disease will increase significantly among minorities while decreasing among White persons. All four CV risk factors are expected to increase from 2025 to 2060, with the largest percentage increase in diabetes.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 1, 2022
Large-scale study of disordered eating in children explores role of weight, sex and puberty
A large-scale study of nearly 12,000 children aged 9-10 found that disordered eating behaviors are more common than previously thought, with a prevalence of up to 5% in some cases. Children with higher BMIs and those further along in puberty face an elevated risk, highlighting the need for targeted prevention efforts.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2022
Turning fish waste into quality carbon-based nanomaterial
Researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology created a simple synthesis method for producing ultra-bright carbon nano-onions from fish scales in under 10 seconds. The process yields functionalized CNOs with high crystallinity and exceptional optical properties.
Changes in smoking cessation–related behaviors during pandemic
The prevalence of past-year quit attempts among adult smokers decreased in 2020, while nicotine replacement therapy sales dropped. This suggests that reengaging smokers who faced negative outcomes during the pandemic should be a priority for quit attempt assistance.
How ADAR1 mutation leads to self-destructive inflammation
A study reveals that an ADAR1 gene mutation activates ZBP1 protein, leading to programmed cell death and inflammatory responses. This causes damage to organs like the kidneys and liver in genetically modified mouse models.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Coaching patients to advocate for themselves can offset the effects of doctors’ racial bias
A University of Michigan-led analysis found that training patients to voice their concerns and advocate for themselves can reduce the impact of physicians' racial biases on care. The study showed that 'patient activation' creates more equitable interactions between patients and physicians.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2022
Fusion simulation code developed to project fusion instabilities in TAE
A new fusion simulation code was developed to project and analyze Toroidal-Alfvén-Eigenmode (TAE) instabilities in Tokamaks. The code, improved by Dr. Youngwoo Cho, enables electromagnetic analysis of TAEs and will optimize fast ion confinement performance.
Earliest known brood care in insects found in Daohugou Biota
Researchers discovered the earliest direct evidence of brood care among insects in the Middle-Late Jurassic Daohugou Biota. Fossils of a water boatman insect showed it carrying a cluster of eggs on its left mesotibia, providing protection from predation and environmental risks.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateAug 1, 2022
Using iPSCs, BU researchers create cells that represent the airways of cystic fibrosis patients
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine have created functional lung epithelial cells from CF patients' blood cells, enabling the testing of effective treatments and potentially discovering novel therapies.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
Successful women make the best advocates to help other women rise up in the ranks
A new study from UC San Diego's Rady School of Management found that referrals and recommendations can act as a gatekeeping process in elite occupational contexts. Female candidates recommended by highly tenured female sponsors are most likely to be hired, contrary to initial findings suggesting male sponsors are more persuasive.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAcademy of Management Discoveries·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2022
Cloud study demystifies impact of aerosols
Aerosol particles in the atmosphere have a bigger impact on cloud cover than previously thought, increasing it by approximately 10%. Clouds hold more water before rainfall occurs due to smaller and more numerous droplets, leading to reduced precipitation. The study uses satellite data and machine learning to improve climate models.
The environment for permafrost in Japan is projected to decrease significantly in the future
A study predicts Japan's permafrost area will significantly decrease in the future due to global warming. The research used climate projection data to estimate areas that can sustain permafrost, revealing a broader distribution than previously thought.
SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalProgress in Earth and Planetary Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 1, 2022
What new cell biology can AI reveal just by looking at images? A lot!
A team of Chan Zuckerberg Biohub scientists developed a deep-learning method, dubbed
New molecule developed at Hebrew U. may prevent age-related diseases and increase life expectancy and wellness
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem have identified a group of molecules that enable cells to repair damaged components, making it possible for those tissues to retain proper function. These molecules were found to protect human cells from damage and may significantly delay the development of age-related diseases.
What’s new under the sun? Offering an alternate view on how “novel” structures evolve
Researchers propose that arthropod shells evolved from a common ancestral structure, contrary to the prevailing gene co-option theory. This discovery suggests that many 'novel' structures in arthropods are actually homologous and share a single origin dating back to the Cambrian period.
Sound of music: Ultrasound exposure improves depressive behavior in rodents
A study published in NeuroReport reveals that ultrasound exposure improves depressive behavior in a rat model of depression. OB rats exposed to USV had significantly lower hyperemotionality scores and plasma corticosterone levels than unexposed rats, suggesting potential anti-depressant effects.
UTA study: Asexual reproduction leads to harmful genetic mutations
Researchers found that asexual whiptail lizards accumulate more harmful genetic mutations than their sexual counterparts due to relaxed natural selection. This study supports the theory that sex is more efficient at removing harmful mutations and maintaining genomic health.
Job insecurity affects mental health
A study by the OPik group found that job insecurity is significantly associated with poor mental health in both men and women. The study's findings suggest that wage level and vulnerability are key factors in this relationship.
Fast-acting immune cells provide powerful protection against stroke
A novel subset of CD8+ regulatory-like T cells (CD8+TRLs) has been identified as 'first responders' to stroke, providing fast-acting and lasting protection. These cells reach the brain within 24 hours after stroke onset, releasing molecules that provide direct neuroprotective effects.
How color in photos can make food look tastier
A new study suggests that photos with high color saturation can increase sales by making food appear fresher and tastier to viewers. The study found that color saturation had a stronger effect when the food appeared more distant in the photos.
SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Business Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2022
How benign water transforms into harsh hydrogen peroxide
Researchers discovered that contact electrification causes the formation of reactive oxygen species in water droplets on solid surfaces. Hydroxyl radicals combine to form small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, which can be detected in humid environments, including fogs and raindrops.
Research on recognising facial emotion expressions could change our understanding of autism
A recent study published in Autism Research suggests that autistic adults are only slightly less accurate than non-autistic peers at recognizing human face emotion expressions. The findings contradict the common perception that individuals with autism struggle to understand others' emotions.
Polyphenols Applications 2022 World Congress Highlights
The Polyphenols Applications 2022 World Congress will focus on the latest findings and emerging trends in polyphenol research, covering various topics such as microbiota, adipose tissue, nervous system, senolytic activity, ageing, endothelial function, radioprotection, atherosclerosis, and more. Over 300 international participants will...
Climate change: Potential to end humanity is ‘dangerously underexplored’ say experts
Researchers warn that climate change poses a significant threat to global food supply and stability, potentially triggering famine, conflicts, and new disease outbreaks. The study proposes a research agenda to explore worst-case scenarios, including 'warm wars' and ecosystem collapse, highlighting the need for urgent action.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2022
Scientists reveal distribution of dark matter around galaxies 12 billion years ago–further back in time than ever before
Researchers used microwaves from the cosmic microwave background to measure dark matter distribution around distant galaxies. The findings suggest a different clumpiness measurement than predicted by the Lambda-CDM model, hinting at a possible flaw in the current cosmology theories.
Developing tech to eliminate ‘forever chemicals’ from water
Engineers at UIC have been awarded a grant to build a system that selectively removes and destroys PFAS, commonly called 'forever chemicals,' from industrial and municipal wastewaters. The team will develop a prototype of their system and deploy it for scale-up and pilot testing in California's Orange County Water District.