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Science News for December 21, 2022


Big dynorphin protects neurons from the accumulation of β-amyloid, one of the main triggers of Alzheimer's disease

A study reveals that big dynorphin, an endogenous opioid peptide, protects neurons against β-amyloid accumulation. The research suggests that big dynorphin can hinder the interaction between β-amyloid and form aggregates, promoting a neuroprotective effect.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalComputational and Structural Biotechnology Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Nanoantennas directing a bright future

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed nanoantennas that significantly increase the efficiency and photoluminescence of white LEDs by replacing aluminum with titanium dioxide. This breakthrough enables the creation of intensely bright yet energy-saving solid-state lighting solutions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Restoring biodiversity in deforested ranches “one tree at a time"

Scientists have found that carefully planned patches of diverse vegetation can increase biodiversity and boost yields for farmers. By engaging local communities and co-designing restoration strategies with them, researchers demonstrate the potential to minimize fragmentation and enhance connectivity in Amazon landscapes.

Wildfire threats not commonly disclosed by US firms despite risk to economy

A new study found that only 6.1% of US firms with wildfires in their headquarters county disclose wildfire risks in required federal filings, highlighting a gap in transparency and risk management. Firms are more likely to disclose risks when they have previously experienced wildfires, and the most disclosure-sensitive firms are those ...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Business Finance &amp Accounting·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Better transplants for better joints: A closer look at micromechanical mismatch influences in cartilage regeneration

A team of scientists from TIBI, UIC, and POSTECH has elucidated key points on how cartilage generation is facilitated and alternative bone formation can be avoided. They found optimal conditions for better cartilage regeneration while reducing excessive cartilage formation using human mesenchymal stem cells.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Pediatric outpatient non-contrast brain MRI: A cost analysis at three U.S. hospitals

A new study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found significant cost savings by eliminating sedation during pediatric brain MRI examinations. The analysis calculated costs for sedated, nonsedated, and limited MRI exams at three US hospitals, revealing that labor costs were the largest expense category.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

UCLA Health tip sheet: Masks prevent more than COVID; Obesity and stroke; Reducing low value treatments in Alzheimer’s Disease

Researchers at UCLA Health have found that masks can prevent not only COVID-19 but also whooping cough, while obesity is linked to an increased risk of stroke and cognitive impairment. The institute has also designed a clinical trial to reduce the use of low-value treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Drug discovery may boost liver transplant success

Researchers found that a senolytic drug can preserve the biliary tract's regenerative capacity in liver cells damaged by cold storage. This discovery could lead to improved liver transplant success rates, saving lives and reducing costs associated with transplant failure.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Study reveals the true value of elephants

A study reveals many elephant values are often overlooked in conservation strategies, prioritizing economic and ecological benefits over moral ones. The research highlights the importance of considering diverse stakeholder value systems to create more sustainable conservation policies.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalEcosystem Services·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 21, 2022

Culturally-informed mental health screenings improve school and community successes

A UCR-led analysis recommends culturally sensitive mental health screenings for schools, focusing on identifying social determinants of health and strengths. These screenings can help schools build resilience, address needs like food insecurity, and combat disproportionate referrals for special education or exclusionary discipline.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of School Psychology·TypeContent analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

A mathematical model shows a global trend towards mutualism between species

A new mathematical model has found a clear trend towards mutualism in ecological interactions, with most relationships eventually leading to a mutually beneficial partnership. The researchers used adaptive dynamics and classical models of population dynamics to study the transitions between different ecological relationships.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalPhysical Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 2022

Drinking 2 or more cups of coffee daily may double risk of heart death in people with severe hypertension

A new study found that drinking two or more cups of coffee daily may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality among people with severe hypertension. In contrast, moderate green tea consumption did not show a significant association with increased risk, suggesting potential benefits of polyphenols in reducing mortality.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 21, 2022

A rough start can lead to a strong bond

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a cheap and simple method to bond polymers to galvanized steel, resulting in lightweight and durable materials. The process involves pre-treating the steel with an acid wash and dipping it in hot water, creating nanoscale needle structures that allow for strong mechanical linkages.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Manufacturing Processes·DateDec 21, 2022

Cheerful chatbots don’t necessarily improve customer service

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that AI chatbots' positive emotional displays have no effect on customer service evaluations when the source is a bot, but improve when human agents exhibit emotions. The study suggests businesses should be cautious about equipping AI agents with emotion-expressing capabilities.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalInformation Systems Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

OB-GYN research lacks racial, ethnic inclusivity

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that all U.S. OB-GYN subspecialties lack racial and ethnic representation in clinical trials and research publications. This absence has negative consequences, including biased tools for diagnosing endometrial cancer and unacceptably low sensitivity in the Black female population.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateDec 21, 2022

Study traces shared and unique cellular hallmarks found in 6 neurodegenerative diseases

A recent study has identified common and unique cellular processes in six neurodegenerative diseases, providing new insights into the underlying causes of these conditions. The research used machine learning analysis to compare RNA markers in whole blood samples from patients with distinct diseases, revealing eight shared themes across...

SourceArizona State University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Sotorasib shows clinically meaningful activity in KRAS G12C-mutated advanced pancreatic cancer

The CodeBreaK 100 trial demonstrates meaningful anticancer activity with sotorasib in heavily pretreated patients with KRAS G12C-mutated metastatic pancreatic cancer. The results show an objective response rate of 21.1% and a median time-to-response of 1.5 months.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 2022

How fat takes over the lymph nodes as we age

As we age, fat cells replace immune system tissue in lymph nodes, impairing their ability to fight infections and respond to vaccinations. This phenomenon, known as lymph node lipomatosis, is more common and prevalent with age, affecting the effectiveness of our immune system.

SourceUppsala University·JournalThe Journal of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Does diabetes during pregnancy increase the risk of neurodevelopmental conditions in children?

Research published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology reveals a link between maternal diabetes and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability in children. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes were associated with increased risks of these conditions, while gestational diabetes was linked to autism spec...

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateDec 21, 2022

Acupressure versus acupuncture—which one is better at treating sleep disturbance in patients with cancer?

A systematic review and network meta-analysis found that acupressure has a greater effect on reducing sleep disturbance in patients with cancer. The study suggests that nurses should be trained in acupressure to help patients experiencing sleep problems. The analysis included 24 randomized controlled trials involving 2,002 patients.

SourceWiley·JournalWorldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing·DateDec 21, 2022

POSTECH develops thermally evaporated environment-friendly semiconductors

Researchers at POSTECH developed high-performance n-type semiconductor Bi2S3 and p-type Te semiconductor through thermal evaporation, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. This method can be integrated into standard OLED manufacturing, lowering production costs and contributing to the growth of sustainable electronics.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2022

CHOP and NJIT researchers develop new tool for studying multiple characteristics of a single cell

Scientists from CHOP and NJIT created a software tool to analyze information from a single cell, revealing relationships between different cellular characteristics. The 'single-cell multimodal deep clustering' method can help identify the causes of genetic-based diseases by integrating data on gene expression, mRNA, proteins, and organ...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

COMPASS for highly sensitive rapid tests

A new rapid test developed by the University of Würzburg uses magnetic nanoparticles to detect antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 with high sensitivity. The test takes only a few seconds to produce reliable results, enabling faster diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

University of Houston study finds anger over COVID-19 layoffs keeping hospitality workers from returning to jobs

A University of Houston study found that anger over how the industry responded to the pandemic is a major driver behind hospitality workers' reluctance to return. The research team suggests that rebuilding trust with employees and offering better compensation and benefits are key recommendations for businesses.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalJournal of Hospitality and Tourism Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease: new algorithm for the adjustment of stimulation settings developed

A new algorithm developed by researchers at Charité improves motor symptoms comparable to standard of care treatment, increasing efficiency in deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease. The study suggests a promising result for imaging-based algorithms to simplify clinical practice and improve therapeutic outcomes.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·DateDec 21, 2022

Inflation Reduction Act offers significant benefits for public health

The Inflation Reduction Act offers significant benefits for public health through its tax credits and financial incentives. The law aims to reduce the adverse health effects of climate change by targeting greenhouse gases, conventional air pollutants, and carcinogenic chemical contaminants. By providing a more politically feasible appr...

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

The valley of recovery marks progress

A study by researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that a 'valley of recovery' marks progress after a stroke, where performance initially slows before improving. The study modeled fine motor skills regained after a stroke to better understand this process.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalFrontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences·DateDec 21, 2022

Acids help against airborne viruses

A study found that acidification of aerosols post-exhalation significantly impacts viral load. Influenza A viruses are inactivated within minutes, while SARS-CoV-2 requires days at typical indoor pH levels.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

CityU scientists discover a novel photophysical mechanism that has achieved record-breaking efficiency for organic photovoltaics

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a novel device-engineering strategy to suppress energy conversion loss in organic photovoltaics, achieving PCE over 19%. The discovery enables OPVs to maximize photocurrent and overcome the limit of maximum achievable efficiency.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Researchers are combining new technologies to examine blood proteins in COVID-19 patients

A team at Lawson Health Research Institute discovered unique patterns of blood plasma proteins in critically ill COVID-19 patients, which may aid in developing targeted therapies. By analyzing over 1,000 proteins, researchers found changes in immunosuppression pathways and identified potential biomarkers for the disease.

SourceLawson Health Research Institute·JournalJournal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 2022

UNC health provider ushers in first FDA-approved medication for eosinophilic esophagitis

Dupilumab, an FDA-approved medication, offers new hope for patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, a rising condition in the US. The treatment reduces eosinophil counts and improves symptoms of dysphagia, leading to better endoscopic healing and histologic severity improvements.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 21, 2022

Social media may prevent users from reaping the creative rewards of profound boredom – new research

Research found that people using social media to escape superficial boredom are preventing themselves from progressing to profound boredom, a state that can lead to more creative and meaningful activity. Profound boredom stems from uninterrupted time spent in solitude, allowing individuals to question their sense of self and existence.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalMarketing Theory·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Sculpting the human body plan in a dish

Scientists at ASHBi have successfully generated a 3D model that recapitulates the early stages of human body plan development, including somite formation and axial skeleton development. The study revealed the importance of retinoids in this process and demonstrated its potential for understanding congenital spine disease.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Exploring perceptions of faces paired with fake news on Twitter

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that faces paired with fake news headlines are perceived as trustworthy regardless of disputed labels. The research suggests that long-term perceptions of trustworthiness are more influenced by the content of the headline rather than the label itself.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

COVID-19 pandemic increased the vulnerability of people living with obesity

A recent study by University College London reveals that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues and food insecurity among individuals living with obesity. Nearly half of participants reported worsening mental health, while nearly a third experienced severe depression. Food insecurity also increased significantly, wi...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics·TypeSurvey·DateDec 21, 2022

Climate change: evaluating CO2 emissions from land use with greater precision

A team of researchers has harmonized calculation methods for CO2 emissions from land use, enabling more accurate evaluation of country targets and supporting the fair distribution of climate mitigation goals. The analysis reconciles land-based mitigation estimates by separating natural and land-use CO2 fluxes at the country level.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalOne Earth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 21, 2022

Aging | DNA methylation GrimAge version 2

Researchers developed a new epigenetic biomarker, GrimAge version 2, which leverages two DNAm-based estimators of plasma proteins to predict mortality risk. The study found that GrimAge 2 outperforms existing clinical biomarkers in predicting mortality across multiple racial/ethnic groups and associations with age-related conditions.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Characters’ actions in movie scripts reflect gender stereotypes

A new machine-learning framework analyzes scene descriptions in movie scripts to recognize character actions, revealing widespread gender stereotypes. Female characters tend to show more emotion and less agency than males, while males are less likely to display emotional vulnerability.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 21, 2022

Sharpsnout seabream‘s mortality during early life stages has a genetic base

A study published in Scientific Reports found that the sharpsnout seabream's mortality during early life stages has a genetic basis. The research analyzed genomic data from recruits and survivors of the species, finding associations with birth time, sea surface temperature, and growth rate. The results suggest that genetics plays a cru...

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

Radiation damage to paternal DNA is passed on to offspring

Researchers discovered that radiation damage to paternal DNA is passed on to offspring through a highly error-prone repair mechanism. This leads to structural changes in the paternal chromosomes and causes developmental defects. Histone proteins play a crucial role in shielding damaged chromosomes from accurate repair.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateDec 21, 2022

How nerve and vascular cells coordinate their growth

Researchers at the Universities of Bonn and Heidelberg identified a mechanism that ensures nerve cells and blood vessels grow without interfering with each other. By releasing semaphorin 3C, motor neurons signal vascular cells to pause growth, allowing for coordinated development during embryonic stages.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Shedding light on the origin of complex life forms

Researchers at the University of Vienna and ETH Zurich have successfully cultivated a representative of the Asgard archaea, a group believed to be the closest relatives of eukaryotes. The newly developed model organism, Lokiarchaeum ossiferum, exhibits unique cellular characteristics, including an extensive cytoskeleton and complex cel...

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateDec 21, 2022

Single component white LED based on lanthanide ions doped lead halide perovskite

Scientists developed a method to fabricate white perovskite LEDs using lanthanide ions doped CsPbCl3 nanocrystals, achieving a peak luminance of 1678 cd m^-2 and a maximum external quantum efficiency of 5.4%. The LEDs demonstrate excellent performance among existing white PeNCs LEDs from single chip.

A team of researchers, led by the UPF, characterize rare, damaged cells (senescent cells) that block the functions of their neighbour healthy cells and identify ways to neutralize them and improve tissue regeneration

A team of researchers identified senescent cells as a major obstacle to muscle regeneration, which can be overcome genetically or pharmacologically. Neutralizing these cells improves tissue repair in both young and elderly individuals.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022