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Science News for November 14, 2022


Catalyzing clean energy

Researchers at Lehigh University have secured $13.2 million in funding to improve hydrogen generation and carbon capture/sequestration technologies through a partnership with Georgia Tech's UNCAGE-ME Center. The goal is to develop catalysts that can mitigate the degradation of these technologies in real-world conditions.

RedHill accelerates Opaganib’s nuclear radiation protection program - Positive data published

Opaganib, an oral small molecule pill, shows potential as a nuclear radiation injury therapeutic for homeland security medical countermeasures and antitumor radiotherapy. The compound protects normal tissue from radiation damage and improves antitumor activity and response to chemoradiation.

SourceRedHill Biopharma·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Newfound cancer cell biology suggests which patients will respond to immunotherapy

Researchers found that patients with more genetic material on chromosome 9 in their cancer cells survive longer after receiving immunotherapy. The discovery suggests a genetically defined axis that determines which HNSC patients will respond well or poorly to checkpoint inhibitors.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

Major financial pain follows major injury, study shows

A new study finds that working-age people who survive serious traumatic injuries face a lasting financial burden, with higher rates of medical debt in collections and bankruptcy. The study suggests that restructuring health insurance plans to reduce or cap cost-sharing for highly necessary trauma care could help alleviate this issue.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

Attack via byways

Researchers at University of Würzburg discovered a novel phosphatase inhibitor that selectively blocks the proliferation of tumor cells. This breakthrough targets increased energy demands in diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders, offering potential new therapies for treatment.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Largest known manta ray population is thriving off the coast of Ecuador, new research shows

A distinct population of oceanic manta rays was identified off the coast of Ecuador, with an estimated total population of over 22,000 individuals, making it more than 10 times larger than any other known subpopulation. The population is large and potentially healthy due to favorable conditions in the region.

SourceOregon State University·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

New statistical method improves genomic analyzes

A new statistical method called CLIMB provides a more efficient way to analyze genomic data across multiple conditions. The method combines principles from two traditional techniques, reducing computational intensity and producing biologically interpretable results.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

Solving childhood obesity requires strong connections within coalitions, new study suggests

A new study from researchers at Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy found that coalitions working to combat childhood obesity are more effective when members form close relationships with people in different organizations, learn new information rapidly, and share that knowledge with others. This can lead ...

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalBMC Public Health·DateNov 14, 2022

New test can help patients with cystic fibrosis

Researchers developed a simple urine test to measure cystic fibrosis severity and assess treatment effects. The test reveals the extent to which new treatments are beneficial, correlating with disease severity and lung function.

SourceAarhus University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 14, 2022

Ankle replacement and fusion demonstrate similar effectiveness for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis

A randomized controlled trial found that both total ankle replacement and ankle fusion improve quality of life and have similar clinical scores in patients with end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. However, TAR is associated with greater wound-healing complications and nerve injuries, while AF is linked to more blood clots and nonunion of t...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 14, 2022

Dam safety: New study indicates probable maximum flood events will significantly increase over next 80 years

A new study by UNSW and the University of Melbourne found that estimates of Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP) for large dams in Australia are expected to increase by 14-38% on average over the next 80 years. This is due to climate change and outdated modelling, which has not been updated since at least 20 years ago.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalWater Resources Research·DateNov 14, 2022

High-fat diet can provoke pain sensitivity without obesity, diabetes

A new study in mice suggests that a short-term high-fat diet can induce hyperalgesic priming and allodynia, even in the absence of injury or preexisting conditions like obesity or diabetes. Researchers found that palmitic acid, a type of saturated fatty acid, binds to nerve cells, causing inflammation and mimicking injury to neurons.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Scientists say sea-level changes formed Australia's K'Gari Sand Island, Great Barrier Reef

Researchers at Utah State University found that the formation of K'gari Sand Island and the Great Barrier Reef were linked to major climate feedback changes during the Middle Pleistocene Transition. The team's study suggests that sea-level rise may have initiated the landforms' beginnings around 800,000 years ago.

SourceUtah State University·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Making mosquitoes’ love songs fall on deaf ears

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new method to control mosquito populations by altering the frequency of sound that males listen for. By using serotonin-inhibiting compounds, they reduced the range of frequencies males respond to and their response itself.

SourceNagoya University·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Desert dust collected from glacier ice helps document climate change

A new study documents past changes in Earth's climate system by analyzing dust composition in samples collected from different areas and depths of the same glacier. The findings suggest that a complete dust record could offer more secrets than scientists realize, hinting at potential long-term perspectives on the Central Asian dust cycle.

SourceOhio State University·JournalGeosciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2022

Study shows the power of 'thank you' for couples

A study by University of Illinois researcher Allen W. Barton found that perceived gratitude from one's partner increases relationship satisfaction, protection against common stressors, and confidence in the future. In contrast, expressed gratitude showed no protective effects. The research highlights the importance of feeling appreciat...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·TypeSurvey·DateNov 14, 2022

Bariatric surgery decreases risk of heart disease

A Rutgers study of 86,964 adults with obesity and NAFLD found that bariatric surgery reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 49% compared to nonsurgical care. This is significant because heart disease is a leading cause of death in the US, and NAFLD can lead to liver damage and inflammation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

‘Devastatingly cute’ bats look for bugs in forest clearings and corridors

Eastern red bats, now the most commonly detected bat in Midwestern forests, have a significant impact on tree regeneration due to their appetite for insect-damaging bugs. Forest managers can benefit from considering these bats' landscape preferences, particularly ponds and smaller forest openings.

Oregon State researchers develop new, heat-efficient nanoparticles for treating cancer

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed new, heat-efficient magnetic nanoparticles capable of reaching temperatures in cancer lesions of up to 50 degrees Celsius. The particles can be exposed to an alternating magnetic field, weakening or destroying cancer cells without causing harm to surrounding tissue.

SourceOregon State University·JournalSmall Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

A live biotherapeutic product reduces lung damage in a neonatal mouse model of chronic lung disease

A live biotherapeutic product made from three Lactobacillus species has been shown to reduce lung damage in neonatal mice with chronic lung disease. The study found that the product can ameliorate redox imbalance and damages caused by experimental microbial dysbiosis, using a humanized mouse model of lung microbiome transplant.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

Patients with Alzheimer’s dementia and related disorders who also have delirium incur greater healthcare costs that increase over time

A recent study by Brigham and Women's Hospital reveals that patients with Alzheimer's dementia and related disorders who also experience delirium incur significantly higher healthcare costs. The average additional cost for one delirium ADRD patient's year of care is $34,828 more than non-delirium ADRD counterparts.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2022

Financial capability predicts more positive health outcomes, study shows

Research from the University of Kansas found that financial capability can predict positive health outcomes, with higher levels associated with better health measurements. The study highlights the importance of considering both individual financial skills and access to resources in improving population health.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

Being a couch potato is risky business: Causes and remedies of sedentary behavior in children

A recent study found that sedentary behavior in children is linked to elevated cholesterol, blood pressure, and cardiovascular problems. The study identified key correlates, including parental characteristics, household environment, and school environment, suggesting that educating parents and designing safe outdoor environments can he...

Climate change creates complications for concrete

New research by University of Pittsburgh scientists finds that concrete pavements are sensitive to sharp air temperature variations during the day, even in mild climates. This can lead to devastating consequences for infrastructure, such as potholes and cracks, with thicker pavements being more vulnerable.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalResults in Engineering·DateNov 14, 2022

Adversity in childhood is linked to increased risk of heart and blood vessel diseases in early adulthood

A large study found that children who experienced adversity, including serious family illness or death, poverty, neglect, or dysfunctional relationships, are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease in early adulthood. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, followed nearly 1.3 million children and found a 60%...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateNov 14, 2022

Ticking boxes? Football industry continues to marginalise ethnically diverse coaches

A new study found that the use of the BAME acronym in the football industry can cause discomfort and reinforce feelings of marginalization. Researchers recommend a more inclusive approach, allowing individuals to describe their heritage and background rather than relying on tick boxes for ethnicity classification.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalInternational Review for the Sociology of Sport·TypeSurvey·DateNov 14, 2022

Molecular monitoring of RNA regulation

A new reporter system called INSPECT allows for highly sensitive monitoring of both coding and non-coding RNA production, shedding light on cellular processes. This breakthrough tool modifies introns without altering completed RNA or proteins, offering a minimally invasive solution to study RNA regulation.

Half of replanted tropical trees don’t survive, new study finds

A recent study found that on average, about half of trees planted in tropical and sub-tropical forest restoration efforts do not survive more than five years. However, survival rates varied greatly amongst sites and species, with some sites seeing over 80% of trees still alive after five years.

SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London B Biological Sciences·DateNov 14, 2022

Chung-Ang University researchers develop adaptive directional charging for efficient wireless rechargeable sensor networks

Chung-Ang University researchers developed an energy-efficient adaptive directional charging algorithm that adapts to the density of sensor nodes. This approach achieved equal or better charging efficiency than single charging while reducing energy waste. The algorithm employs a mean-shift method and discretized charging strategy decis...

SourceChung Ang University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2022

Even in kindergarten, gaps seen in extracurricular activities

A study found significant gaps in extracurricular activities among kindergarten children based on race and mother's education level. White children were more likely to participate in athletics, while those from disadvantaged backgrounds may miss opportunities that could help them succeed in school.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Applied Developmental Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

LSU Health New Orleans study reveals economic burden of gun violence

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimates the economic burden of acute firearm injuries at a Level I Trauma Center in New Orleans, resulting in a net loss of $20.3 million over four years. The study highlights the significant financial impact of gun violence on healthcare systems and society.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

Feeling lonely? What we want from our relationships can change with age

Researchers discovered that older adults have specific relationship expectations, such as feeling respected and contributing to their community. Failing to account for these expectations can lead to loneliness in later life. The study aims to better understand the factors driving loneliness to address it effectively.

SourceDuke University·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 14, 2022

Atomically dispersed bimetallic iron–cobalt electrocatalysts developed for green production of ammonia

Scientists developed a method to control the synthesis of single-atom catalysts, enabling the creation of bimetallic Fe-Co electrocatalysts with desired properties. These catalysts showed superior ammonia yield rates and faradaic efficiency under electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022

California Academy of Sciences researchers produce first-ever ‘family tree’ for aquarium-bred corals

Researchers developed a pedigree for aquarium-bred corals, revealing relationships between individuals and identifying genetic differences. The study provides insights into maximizing genetic diversity and adaptability in corals bred for conservation, crucial for their resilience to threats like ocean warming and acidification.

SourceCalifornia Academy of Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 14, 2022

15 ways to reforest the planet

International researchers highlight 15 essential advances for effective forest restoration, including careful planning to boost biodiversity and economic development. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration aims to inspire action around the world, particularly in developing tropics where much of this research has been undertaken.

SourceUniversity of the Sunshine Coast·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London B Biological Sciences·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 14, 2022

Han conducting collaborative research on innovating volumetric video streaming with motion forecasting, intelligent upsampling and QoE modeling

Collaborative research team led by George Mason University's Bo Han explores innovative approaches to streaming volumetric videos. The project aims to develop demonstrable systems for multi-dimension, multi-modality motion sensing, deep-learning-based content upsampling, QoE modeling and resource/motion adaptation.

How Covid-19 causes neurological damage

Researchers identified biomarkers that predict severe Covid-19 cases with neurological symptoms, offering potential targets for drug development to prevent consequential damage. They also found a link between impaired blood-brain barrier and excessive immune response.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 14, 2022

Technion researchers discover unique peptides with anti-cancer potential

Researchers from the Technion and University of Tokyo have discovered cyclic peptides that bind to specific chains of ubiquitin proteins, disrupting DNA repair mechanisms and leading to cell death. This breakthrough could lead to more effective treatments against cancer cells than existing anti-cancer drugs.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2022