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Science News for June 30, 2022


Telehealth enables 8 Texas nurseries to reduce antibiotic use in newborns by 32%

A three-year study found that telehealth consultations with a pediatric infectious disease specialist reduced antibiotic usage in 8 Texas nurseries serving rural and medically underserved areas by 32%. The consultations helped healthcare providers make more informed decisions about when to use antibiotics, ensuring the proper balance b...

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Developmentally arrested IVF embryos can be coaxed to divide

A new study published in PLOS Biology found that IVF embryos often undergo genetic and metabolic changes that inhibit development. The researchers discovered that certain embryos enter a senescent-like state, but treating them with resveratrol can help overcome this arrest and promote further development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Emu stands tall at detecting bacteria species

The Emu project effectively identifies bacterial species by leveraging long DNA sequences spanning the entire length of the gene under study. This approach facilitates the analysis of key genes in microbiome researchers' efforts to sort out harmful and helpful bacteria.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2022

New study reveals impact of plastic on small mammals, as four out of seven species identified as ‘plastic positive’

Researchers found traces of plastics in over half of the species examined, including polyester, polyethylene, and polynorbornene. Four out of seven species, such as European hedgehogs and field voles, were identified as 'plastic positive', highlighting potential impacts on conservation status.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJun 30, 2022

Laser oxidation-a new approach to tuning the optical third-order nonlinearity of boron nitride

Researchers developed a one-step ball milling method to enhance h-BN's solubility and create freestanding thin films. Femtosecond laser processing introduces oxidation, increasing the material's third-order nonlinear optical properties. This enables precise control and operation of light at micro/nano scales for various applications.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Science·DateJun 30, 2022

UV increases risks for disinfection of drinking water treatment: Scientists provide new insight

New research reveals UV disinfection can form trihalomethane disinfection byproducts from halobenzoquinones, posing a risk to public health and the environment. The study found UV enhances THM formation yield by nearly 10 times, highlighting the need for further investigation into combined UV/chlorine processes.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Laser creates a miniature magnetosphere

Researchers at Osaka University have successfully created a miniature magnetosphere using lasers, directly measuring pure electron outflows associated with magnetic reconnection. This breakthrough sheds light on the microscopic electron dynamics driving space and astrophysical phenomena.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Tonga volcano eruption was among the most powerful ever observed, triggering atmospheric gravity waves that reached the edge of space

The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai submarine volcano eruption created the largest recorded volcanic explosion, producing massive gravity and atmospheric waves that reverberated around the earth. The study, published in Nature, highlights the importance of this event for improving weather and climate models.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2022

Adolescents more vulnerable to cannabis addiction but not other mental health risks

A new study led by UCL and King's College London researchers found that adolescents are three times more likely to develop a cannabis addiction than adults. However, they do not appear to be at increased risk of subclinical depression or anxiety. In contrast, adult users who become addicted may experience worsening mental health symptoms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2022

Six guiding principles for the EU agricultural policy to halt biodiversity loss

The EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has three key measures to support biodiversity: Cross Compliance, Agri-Environment-Climate Measures, and Greening. Despite these measures, farmland biodiversity is still declining. A study by over 300 scientists recommends six guiding principles to improve the CAP for better biodiversity outcomes.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalConservation Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2022

THE LANCET DIABETES & ENDO.: COVID-19 vaccine protects people of all body weights from hospitalization and death, study of 9 million adults in England suggests

A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduced severe disease cases across all BMI groups. Vaccine effectiveness was slightly lower in underweight individuals, but substantial reductions in risk were observed for those with healthy weights and higher BMIs.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2022

Found: The ‘holy grail of catalysis’ — turning methane into methanol under ambient conditions using light

Researchers have developed a novel process converting methane into liquid methanol at ambient temperature and pressure using visible light. The method uses a continuous flow of methane/oxygen-saturated water over a novel metal-organic framework (MOF) catalyst, achieving 100% selectivity with no by-products.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Pioneering recycling turns mixed waste into premium plastics with no climate impact

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a thermochemical recycling method that produces gas containing carbon atoms from mixed waste, which can be used to create new plastic products. The process eliminates the need for fossil raw materials and achieves negative emissions.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2022

Simulating 3D-AFM images for systems not in equilibrium

A new simulation approach for 3D-AFM imaging has been developed to tackle complex systems not in equilibrium. This enables the study of biologically relevant systems like biomolecules and biopolymers. The method uses the Jarzynski equality to calculate force-distance curves, reproducing internal structures and fiber features.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry·DateJun 30, 2022

Winning by default: Tonsillectomy study shows power of pre-set opioid Rx size

A new study found that hospitals can reduce excessive opioid prescribing by implementing an evidence-based default setting for opioid prescriptions written in electronic health records. The study showed that patients who received a standard prescription size with a lower default dose of opioids had similar pain control, but took home f...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2022

New flood maps clarify the risk homeowners face

A new approach to developing flood maps uses confidence intervals to capture the uncertainty in flood predictions, providing a more realistic depiction of flood zones. This simplified method is more accessible and cost-effective than traditional methods, producing acceptable results with less effort and lower costs.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalWater·DateJun 30, 2022

Development of ultra-thin, high-efficiency piezoelectric elements that generate electricity from movements in daily life

Researchers at DGIST have created a new energy-generating device using biocompatible materials that can harness electrical energy from small movements of the human body. The developed device boasts an ultra-thin film design and achieves the world's highest energy conversion efficiency at 18.85%, making it suitable for long-term power s...

Patients with severe brachial plexus injuries who undergo amputation report benefits, Mayo study finds

A Mayo Clinic study found that patients with severe brachial plexus injuries who undergo amputation experience reduced mechanical shoulder pain and higher employment rates. The study also showed improved prosthetic use among patients with myoelectric prostheses, suggesting a potential benefit to amputation for some individuals.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJun 30, 2022

Breaking AIs to make them better

A team of researchers led by Danilo Vasconcellos Vargas has developed a new method called 'Raw Zero-Shot' to evaluate the robustness of artificial neural networks in image recognition. The study found that Capsule Networks produced the densest clusters, indicating improved transferability and potential solutions for improving AI robust...

SourceKyushu University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2022

Theatre provides body image boost for children

Theatre productions have been shown to promote positive body image in young children by improving body appreciation scores and increasing unique qualities perception. The study evaluated the impact of a body-positive production on 99 children aged 5-9, finding significant improvements in both boys' and girls' body image attitudes.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBody Image·TypeSurvey·DateJun 30, 2022

The structure-performance correlation of bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells with multi-length-scale morphology

Researchers investigate how varying morphologies in organic solar cells affect their performance, revealing the importance of balancing donor and acceptor phases to optimize carrier generation and transport. The study provides insights into optimizing device performances by controlling blended thin film morphology.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateJun 30, 2022

Gemini North spies ultra-faint fossil galaxy discovered on outskirts of Andromeda

A team of astronomers discovered an unusual ultra-faint dwarf galaxy, Pegasus V, on the outer edge of the Andromeda Galaxy using NSF's NOIRLab facilities. The galaxy appears to be extremely deficient in heavier elements, indicating it is very old and likely a fossil of the first galaxies.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateJun 30, 2022

Turning phones on silent may increase phone checking

Researchers at Penn State discovered that people with high 'Fear-of-Missing-Out' and 'Need-to-Belong' personality traits check their phones significantly more often when in silent mode, staying on the phone longer as well. This suggests a one-size-fits-all approach to managing smartphone distractions may be misguided.

SourcePenn State·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJun 30, 2022

Hidden in caves: Mineral overgrowths reveal unprecedented modern sea-level rise

A study led by the University of South Florida reveals a previously unknown 20 centimeter sea-level rise that occurred nearly 3,200 years ago when ice caps melted naturally. The team found exceptionally stable preindustrial sea levels until 1900, implying that global temperatures continuing to rise could lead to higher sea levels.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 30, 2022

The chanchita may have the highest cold tolerance of all non-native fish in Central Florida

Researchers have discovered that chanchita, a cichlid fish native to South America, has the highest cold tolerance of all non-native species in Florida, allowing it to survive central and possibly northern Florida's winters. Chanchitas exhibit parental care behavior, with both parents guarding eggs and young.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalManagement of Biological Invasions·DateJun 30, 2022

Birds warned of food shortages by neighbor birds change physiology and behavior to prepare

Research by Oregon State University shows that songbirds can use social information about food shortages to adapt their behavior and physiology. By receiving advance warning of declining food resources, birds can better conserve body mass and intestinal mass during times of scarcity, leading to improved survival.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

Virtual reality technology could strengthen effects of traditional rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis

Researchers from Kessler Foundation found that virtual reality (VR) technology can strengthen the effects of traditional cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training in individuals with MS. By increasing sensory input and promoting multisensory integration, VR may increase the effectiveness of these therapies.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalNeuroSci·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 30, 2022

Advanced technology allows automated 3D tracking of leaked gas

Researchers developed an automated method to create 3D images of leaked gas clouds, enabling precise location, volume, and concentration determination. This technology can provide early leak warnings, assess risk, or determine the best way to fix leaks in large facilities with stored toxic chemicals.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 30, 2022

New genetic research on remote Pacific islands yields surprising findings on world’s earliest seafarers

Genetic analysis of ancient individuals from remote Pacific islands yields findings on family structure, social customs, and ancestral populations. The study suggests that matrilocal population structures were the rule among the world's earliest seafarers, with women often remaining in their communities after marriage.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2022

A closer look into the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bioaerosols and its monitoring

Researchers explore the emergence of antibiotic resistance genes in bioaerosols, including sources and detection strategies. The study highlights the need for monitoring and understanding the relationship between human, animal, and environmental microbiomes to counter the spread of AR.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalReviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2022

Photonic synapses with low power consumption and high sensitivity are expected to integrate sensing-memory-preprocessing capabilities

Researchers have developed photonic synapses using large-area, uniform multilayer MoS2 films that integrate sensing-memory-preprocessing capabilities. These devices exhibit ultralow power consumption of about 40 aJ and can simulate short-term synaptic plasticity, long-term synaptic plasticity, and other synaptic properties.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateJun 30, 2022

How the coronavirus attacks the heart

The coronavirus weakens the heart's pumping function by exerting pressure on heart muscle cells and activating enzymes that degrade proteins. Inflammation and oxidative stress exacerbate this damage.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 30, 2022

Structured light just got colorful

Researchers showcase nonlinear control of structured light, enabling novel applications in imaging, microscopy and quantum communications. New forms of structured light can be produced using nonlinear optics, offering unparalleled efficiency.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·DateJun 30, 2022

The art of getting DNA out of decades-old pickled snakes

Researchers at the Field Museum used innovative techniques to extract usable DNA from centuries-old specimens, including a two-foot-long greenish-brown snake from Borneo. The study successfully determined the snake's family affiliation, providing insights into biogeography and evolutionary history.

SourceField Museum·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJun 30, 2022

SMART research reveals promising uses of non-destructive sensors to aid food security and enhance sustainable agriculture

Recent advancements in non-destructive sensors enable real-time monitoring of plant health, allowing for prompt adjustment of environmental conditions to augment crop productivity. The sensors convert plant signals into digital signals, establishing direct communication between plants and growers.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 30, 2022

New universal flu vaccine offers broad protection against influenza A virus infections, researchers find

Researchers at Georgia State University developed a universal flu vaccine offering broad cross-protection against different strains and subtypes of influenza A viruses. The vaccine, using M2e-stalk protein genetic fusion, induces immunoglobulin G antibodies and protective cellular T cell immunity in mice.

SourceGeorgia State University·Journalnpj Vaccines·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

*Free* Ancient DNA reveals sources of migration to Micronesia and female household-centered social structure, showing Micronesia distinct from nearby southwest Pacific

A study of ancient and modern DNA in Micronesia has identified five separate migrations into the region, with one population showing no Papuan ancestry. The research also found a matrilocal social structure where men followed female migrants, settling within their families' communities.