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Science News for December 15, 2022


Taking pride in identity may protect mental health against online hate, experience of Asian Americans finds

A recent study suggests that taking pride in one's identity can help protect mental health from online hate, with Asian Americans showing increased resilience. The research found that those who affirmed their identities were more likely to experience better psychological and physical health, as well as stronger personal relationships.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Applied Communication Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2022

Florida International University researchers patent synthetic antibiotic

Researchers from Florida International University have patented a synthetic antibiotic, arsinothricin (AST), which is effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The team aims to produce large quantities of the drug to combat the growing number of infections that have become resistant to current antibiotics.

SourceFlorida International University College of Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2022

Oral contraceptives impact on women’s health: Age and gut microbiome may be determining factors

Research from the University of Ottawa finds that oral contraceptives' effects on brain and mood in women may be linked to age of onset and gut microbiome. The study suggests adolescence as a critical period for understanding OCs' impact, as it influences brain development and hormonal changes.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalFrontiers in Neuroendocrinology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 15, 2022

Insights get the right fish on the right plate

A team of scientists from Michigan State University conducted a study to track the supply and demand of fish in sub-Saharan Africa, revealing surprising gaps in traditional analysis. The research found that smaller fish species like usipa were more widely available than larger species like chambo, but policies were prioritizing the lat...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Food·DateDec 15, 2022

Research brief: Organizing care for diabetes patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

Researchers found that high-performing practices used proactive approaches to organize staff and manage patient interactions, leading to comprehensive addressing of patient care needs during in-person visits. The study suggests incorporating proactive patient care processes into primary care delivery to improve diabetes outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2022

Children’s Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program improves efficiency in treating children with traumatic injuries

The Children's Surgery Verification Quality Improvement Program, introduced by the American College of Surgeons, improved efficiency in treating children with traumatic injuries. The program reduced surgical wait times and hospital stays by over a day and decreased narcotics use in pediatric patients with femur fractures.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 15, 2022

Baylor Chemistry researchers synthesize new groundbreaking compound

Researchers at Baylor University have synthesized a new, one-step Lewis superacid called tris(ortho-carboranyl)borane (BoCb3), which has applications in the production of common plastics. The compound is more efficient to produce, safer for the environment, and could potentially save billions of dollars in manufacturing costs.

SourceBaylor University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

PolyU researchers compile world’s first “atlas” of airborne microbes that provides an important new perspective for public health research

Researchers compiled a comprehensive map of the world's airborne microbes, providing fresh insights into how these species interact with the surface environment. The atlas reveals that human activities have changed the structure of microbiomes in natural ambient air, particularly with higher abundance of pathogenic bacteria in urban air.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Science’s 2022 Breakthrough of the Year: NASA’s stellar new space telescope

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has revealed thousands of new galaxies more distant and ancient than previously documented, with data hinting at potential life-supporting abilities of exoplanets. The telescope's capabilities have also shed light on planetary atmospheres, providing valuable insights into the universe's past.

Rosenstiel marine researcher identifies new bottlenose dolphin subspecies

A new subspecies of bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus nuuanu, has been identified in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. This subspecies is smaller than other common bottlenose dolphins and prefers deep offshore waters between southern Baja California and the Galapagos Islands.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalJournal of Mammalian Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Scientists fabricated highly long-life Li-S batteries based on multifunctional separators functionalized by porous mediators

Researchers fabricated Li-S batteries with ultra-long cycle life over 2000 cycles via multifunctional separator design. The novel hollow and hierarchically porous Fe3O4 nanospheres effectively regulate LiPSs behavior, achieving high sulfur utilization and excellent electrochemical performances.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 15, 2022

Economic behaviour not influenced by gender or biological sex, study finds

Researchers found that transgender individuals do not exhibit different economic behaviors compared to their cisgender counterparts. The study controlled for priming exercises and hypothesized that same-gender identities would lead to similar decision-making patterns. This unexpected finding suggests that traditional views on gender's ...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

First comprehensive assessment of effectiveness of tertiary treatment processes in removing emerging contaminants

A comprehensive assessment evaluates the removal of 38 emerging contaminants, including pharmaceuticals and endocrine disruptors, using microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, UV radiation, and powdered activated carbon adsorption. PAC adsorption shows high removal rates for most compounds.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

New support for a serotonin deficit in depression

Researchers found reduced serotonin release capacity in individuals with depression, suggesting a blunted serotonin system. The study used novel imaging techniques to measure serotonin levels in the brain, providing crucial insights into the pathology of depression.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Follow-up clinic visits with a nephrologist after hospital discharge may improve survival in patients with acute kidney injury

Regular follow-up clinic visits with a nephrologist after hospital discharge significantly reduce mortality risk in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). This study found that such visits, focusing on cardiovascular disease and kidney complications management, lead to lower mortality rates by 29% compared to standard care.

SourceNational Kidney Foundation·JournalAmerican Journal of Kidney Diseases·DateDec 15, 2022

Wearable electronics from starch to prevent e-waste

Researchers developed a biodegradable material that decomposes in weeks to months, replacing toxic metal components of electronic devices. The starch-based polymer uses natural enzymes and has the right properties for sensors, offering an alternative to complex polymers and reducing e-waste.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Standoff coherent Raman spectrometer

Researchers have developed a novel air-laser-based standoff Raman spectrometer with high temporal and frequency resolutions. The device enables remote detection of chemical species in real time, monitoring their rovibronic levels and populations in the frequency domain.

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

CityU researchers develop wireless, ultrathin 'Skin VR' to provide a vivid, 'personalized' touch experience in the virtual world

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed an advanced wireless haptic interface system called WeTac. The system provides a vivid touch experience with personalized tactile sensation data and overcomes the shortcomings of existing bulky gloves.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

How a policy to address a groundwater shortage inadvertently increase air pollution in northern India

A government policy that pushed back the sowing of rice in northwest India led to a delay in harvests and agricultural burning, exacerbating air pollution. Without this delay, cities like New Delhi would have seen an average of 11-21% less smoke-related air pollution between 2008 and 2019.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·DateDec 15, 2022

Children and young people need lessons in building strong relationships to counteract negative role models and “Disneyfied” portrayals of love, experts say

A new study suggests that schools should incorporate relationship education to promote good health and wellbeing. Experts argue that children need to learn how to build and sustain strong partnerships, managing expectations and conflict, to prevent public health problems such as alcohol misuse and poor mental health.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2022

Scientists' use of hydrogel materials leads to stem cells developing like human embryos

Researchers at UNSW Sydney have successfully induced a gastrulation-like event in human pluripotent stem cells, mimicking the early stages of embryonic development. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for studying human development and creating personalized body tissue or organs using hydrogel materials.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Two fungi work together to kill fig trees

Researchers at Nagoya University discovered that when Ceratocystis ficicola and Fusarium kuroshium fungi are combined, fig saplings experience rapid wilting. The two fungi work together to cause more damage than either one alone, highlighting the importance of considering co-occurring microorganisms in disease control strategies.

SourceNagoya University·JournalMicroorganisms·DateDec 15, 2022

New study shows the incidence of Parkinson’s disease in the U.S. is 50% higher than previous estimates

A new study found the annual incidence of Parkinson’s disease in the U.S. to be nearly 90,000 cases per year, a 50% increase from previous estimates of 60,000 diagnoses annually. The increased incidence is attributed to an aging population and highlights the need for more research and better treatments.

SourceParkinson's Foundation·Journalnpj Parkinson s Disease·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Once a terrorist, always a terrorist?

A study examines the UN's terrorist list and its ombudsperson, highlighting problematic processes and potential flaws in the sanctions regime. The researcher argues that the ombudsperson embodies a new trend in international law, offering a compromise between Western standards for the rule of law and state interests.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAmerican Journal of International Law·TypeCase study·DateDec 15, 2022

Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Health System receive $5.2 Million NIH grant to study heart failure in Hispanic populations

Researchers will investigate the relationship between heart function and aorta stiffness to identify risk factors for heart failure in Hispanics/Latinos, who are disproportionately affected by this condition. The study aims to develop new methods for predicting and preventing heart failure in underrepresented populations.

Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine’s COVID Support Our Schools Initiative publishes findings

The COVID Support Our Schools (SOS) program, developed by Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, assisted 11 school districts and one Boys and Girls Club in historically underserved areas across New Jersey. The program provided personalized task forces with medical students and faculty experts to address various challenges such as vac...

SourceHackensack Meridian Health·JournalChildren·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

Plastic pollution kills sea urchin larvae

Researchers found that sea urchin larvae exposed to high levels of plastic pollution developed significant developmental abnormalities, including malformation of the skeleton and immune cells. The study reveals how newly made PVC pellets and beach-collected fragments cause harm to the embryos.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

Artificial Intelligence searches an early sign of osteoarthritis from an x-ray image – might save from unnecessary treatments and examination

Researchers developed an AI-based neural network to detect early knee osteoarthritis from x-ray images, matching doctors' diagnoses in 87% of cases. This method could help reduce unnecessary examinations, treatments, and even knee joint replacement surgery.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalDiagnostics·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

COVID-19 vaccinations lag in rural, underserved communities

A recent study found that COVID-19 vaccination rates vary widely across the US, with underserved communities facing significant barriers to access, including cost, insurance coverage, and transportation. The analysis showed that people in these areas were 34% less likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Looking for an early sign of LATE

Researchers discovered significantly elevated plasma TDP-43 levels in patients with Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE), a newly recognized form of dementia. This finding could lead to the development of new diagnostics for LATE, currently poorly understood and difficult to identify in living patients.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateDec 15, 2022

Herpes vaccines could mean billions of dollars of cost savings and prevent the loss of millions of quality of life years by reducing HSV-2 infections and HSV-2 driven HIV infections, according to a modelling study in 90 low and middle income countries

A modelling study in 90 low- and middle-income countries estimates that herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections drive significant healthcare cost savings and improved quality of life. The study suggests that widespread HSV-2 vaccination could prevent millions of quality of life years lost due to HSV-2 and HIV co-infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

Cleft lip and palate: News from the genes

Researchers at the University of Bonn have uncovered new correlations between genetic mutations and cleft lip and palate. The study found that new mutations near the SPRY1 gene and transcription factor Musculin may contribute to disease risk, providing new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying the condition.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalHuman Genetics and Genomics Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Screening a puppy’s DNA methylome may help predict how energetic or fearful they will be

Researchers found that differences in epigenetic DNA methylation predict behavioral differences between dogs better than genetic markers. Epigenetics are more informative for behavior than genetics, and the results open up new possibilities for screening and selecting desired behavioral traits in companion or service dogs.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Walnuts the new brain food for stressed university students

A recent clinical trial found that walnut consumption reduced stress and depression levels in university students. The study also showed improved metabolic biomarkers and overall sleep quality in the longer term. Walnuts contain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and melatonin, which promote healthy brain and gut function.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalNutrients·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 15, 2022

Harnessing smartphones to track how people use green spaces

A new study demonstrates how anonymized smartphone data can monitor public use of parks and green spaces, shedding light on relationships between people and nature. The findings highlight potential for GPS data to inform management and optimize benefits for both recreation and biodiversity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

The value of people’s values: Study shows how relational values contribute towards sustainability

A new study from Ritsumeikan University reveals the essential role of relational values in people's readiness to participate in and support sustainable social-ecological system (SES) management. The research shows that integrating relational values into SES management plans can promote pro-SES behavior among people.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2022

INCIDER fluorescent sensors visualize sticky situations

Researchers from Osaka University developed a new fluorescent sensor system to visualize N-cadherin-mediated interactions between living cells. The INCIDER system enables accurate tracking of temporal changes in these interactions, with a fluorescence signal 70 times stronger than existing methods.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

London Underground polluted with metallic particles small enough to enter human bloodstream

Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that the London Underground is contaminated with ultrafine metallic particles, including maghemite, which can be inhaled and enter the bloodstream. The particles are so small that they evade traditional air pollution monitoring methods, posing a significant risk to public health.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 15, 2022

Adult children more likely to be estranged from dad than mom

A new national study found that adult children are over four times more likely to be estranged from their fathers than mothers. The study, conducted by Ohio State University researchers, tracked child estrangement in over 8,000 mother-child and father-child relationships. Results showed that factors such as gender, race/ethnicity, and ...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Discover the latest newborn screening research in the special issue American Journal of Medical Genetics

The special issue highlights innovation across various stakeholders in newborn screening, including researchers, healthcare professionals, and families. Key findings include the development of novel technologies to screen, diagnose, and treat newborns, as well as long-term follow-up studies and NBS expansion.

SourceNewborn Screening Translational Research Network·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Genetics Part C Seminars in Medical Genetics·DateDec 15, 2022

More exercise linked to less-severe COVID-19 outcomes

A study by Kaiser Permanente found that physically active individuals had a lower risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. The research showed an association between physical activity and improved COVID-19 outcomes across major demographic groups, including black, Hispanic, and Asian patients.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 15, 2022

Cell quality control

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University have found that gland cells in Drosophila melanogaster can remove defective secretory particles as early as the secretion process begins. This discovery sheds new light on crinophagy, a previously understudied process crucial for maintaining cellular quality and function.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalTraffic·DateDec 15, 2022

Audits can bring bad news or benefits to small businesses

A new study found that IRS audits can lead to a significant decrease in the survival rate of small businesses, with non-compliant companies being 2.7-12.6 percentage points less likely to survive. However, compliant businesses may experience operational costs but also benefits from improved tax efficiency and increased investment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalReview of Accounting Studies·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

New immune target to treat cardiovascular disease discovered

A recent study discovered a link between soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and the development of atherosclerosis, a hardening of arteries that affects over a billion people worldwide. SuPAR was found to cause inflammation in blood vessels, leading to cardiovascular events and increasing risk of heart disease.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

American Society of Anesthesiologists’ neuromuscular blockade guidelines will improve patient safety and satisfaction

The American Society of Anesthesiologists' (ASA) new practice guidelines for monitoring and reversing neuromuscular blockade aim to reduce residual paralysis after general anesthesia. This can lead to decreased postoperative complications such as pneumonia, respiratory arrest, and reintubation.

SourceAmerican Society of Anesthesiologists·JournalAnesthesiology·DateDec 15, 2022

New methodology for the synthesis of benzazepines, a highly interesting bioactive molecule

Researchers at CiQUS developed a new methodology for synthesizing chiral benzazepines, a highly interesting bioactive molecule. The method uses a palladium metal and a newly designed chiral ligand to activate specific C-H bonds, enabling the efficient production of these compounds.

SourceCenter for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

One is the loneliest number: game theory shows why sexual misconduct is underreported

A recent study using game theory explains why people with experience don't report sexual misconduct, citing a 'first mover disadvantage' and uncertainty over others' actions. Reporting improves when individuals are aware of other reports, problematic behavior is penalized, or targeted employees receive damage awards.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalAmerican Economic Journal Microeconomics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

HKUMed discovers a novel subtype of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and Epstein-Barr virus associated immune suppression Leads to potential therapeutic targets

Researchers at HKUMed identified a new type of nasopharyngeal carcinoma associated with EBV and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Global DNA hypermethylation was found to be a critical step in NPC pathogenesis, while global DNA hypomethylation may lead to immune evasion.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalEBioMedicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Harmful fungal toxins in wheat: a growing threat

A new study found that nearly half of wheat crops in Europe are contaminated with harmful fungal toxins, including DON, which can cause vomiting and other gastrointestinal problems. The researchers estimate that 75-million tonnes of wheat exceeded the limit allowed for human consumption between 2010 and 2019, resulting in a loss of aro...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature Food·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 15, 2022

Study probes how plague spreads through wild rodent populations

Researchers found that fleas with early-phase infection are insufficient to drive epizootic outbreaks but can promote a low level of enzootic plague. Early-phase transmission may help maintain the enzootic state by reducing susceptible individuals in the population.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Marsquake!

The largest earthquake on Mars, a 4.7 magnitude marsquake, revealed layers in the crust suggesting a massive meteoroid impact, with possible alternating volcanic and sedimentary rocks. This finding provides evidence for past collision events that shaped the planet.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

How do you treat untreatable infections? Do what the microbes do

Researchers at Princeton University have isolated a compound called cloacaenodin, which is a potent antibacterial peptide that can kill clinically relevant drug-resistant strains of Enterobacter. This discovery has significant implications for the treatment of bacterial infections and could lead to new antibiotic development.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalACS Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Preventing collisions of small satellites

Students from the WüSpace association are working on a project to develop intelligent sensors and algorithms for small satellites, aiming to detect dangerous approaches and prevent collisions. The project is funded by the German Space Agency and allows students to gain hands-on experience in space technology development.

Large, real-world study finds COVID-19 vaccination more effective than natural immunity in protecting against all causes of death, hospitalization and emergency department visits

A large real-world study has confirmed that COVID-19 vaccination is more effective than natural immunity in preventing death, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits for any cause. Vaccinated individuals had a 37% lower risk of all-cause death and hospital admission rates compared to those with natural immunity.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 15, 2022

Some claim culture affects our basic visual perception. A UCLA study takes a fresh look

A UCLA study conducted by Zili Liu and Chéla R Willey found that white, Asian American, and recent Asian immigrant college students performed similarly on a well-known visual perception test, known as the rod-and-frame task. The results suggest that basic visual functions are largely independent of cultural variation.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Gene therapy using a short-form neurotrophin receptor stimulates neuroprotection and optic nerve regeneration in mouse models of glaucoma

Researchers developed a gene therapy tool that protects retinal ganglion cells and promotes optic nerve regeneration in glaucoma models. The treatment, AAV-F-iTrkB, is effective in both high- and normal-intraocular-pressure models, showing promise for treating axonal damage and neurodegenerative diseases.

Flip-flopping cholesterol in the cell membrane

Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a vital role of two proteins, ABCA1 and Aster-A, in maintaining the asymmetric distribution of cholesterol within cells. This process allows for selective control over substances entering and leaving cells.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Sudden hearing loss following vaccination against COVID-19

A large Finnish study of 5.5 million residents found no evidence of an increased risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss following COVID-19 vaccination. The study controlled for previous disease and other potential confounding factors, providing reassurance about the safety of COVID-19 vaccines.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateDec 15, 2022

Detrimental secondary health effects after disasters and pandemics

Researchers at Osaka University found that disasters and pandemics increase major non-communicable diseases and mental disorders, especially among certain age groups. The study highlights the need for improved post-disaster health policies and prevention strategies to mitigate these effects.

SourceOsaka University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2022

Whales could be a valuable carbon sink, say scientists

Researchers explore the importance of understanding whale carbon sequestration potential to combat climate change. Whales can store more carbon than small animals, influencing nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling over ocean-basin scales.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 15, 2022