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Science News for November 29, 2022


Controversial Alzheimer’s drug approval sparks surprising impact

A survey by UCI MIND found that news coverage of the FDA's decision made the public less willing to volunteer for Alzheimer's pharmaceutical trials. The study suggests that media attention can have a significant impact on people's choices, potentially hindering scientific progress. Researchers plan to conduct further research to better...

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·DateNov 29, 2022

Do voluntary corporate pledges help reduce plastic pollution?

A recent analysis by Duke University researchers found that most top companies have made voluntary commitments to reduce plastic pollution, but few prioritize reducing virgin plastic use. The study suggests that these efforts focus on downstream waste-reduction strategies such as lightweighting, rather than addressing the root cause of...

SourceDuke University·JournalOne Earth·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 29, 2022

Pregnant women’s cannabis usage in legalized US states raises calls for screening

A new national study found pregnant women in legalized US states are far more likely to use cannabis, with a 4.6 times higher rate compared to CBD-only states. The study emphasizes the need for prenatal and primary care providers to screen and counsel patients regarding cannabis use in pregnancy.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2022

New Carnegie Mellon University research investigates how the brain processes language

A recent study published in Nature Computational Science reveals that specific regions of the brain process both individual and combined words, while others focus solely on individual words. The research could contribute to the development of wearable neurotechnology devices that can decode language directly from brain activity.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Computational Science·DateNov 29, 2022

Scientists reveal the fate of microplastics and plasticizers in municipal wastewater treatment plant

Scientists investigated microplastics and plasticizers in municipal wastewater treatment plants, detecting MPs in influent, effluent, and sludge. The study found high MP removal efficiency and accumulation of MPs in sludge, with PAEs detected in the MWTP. Thermal hydrolysis increased plasticizer concentration and decreased MP size.

SourceHigher Education Press·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

New study provides evidence for three-year interval for multi-target stool DNA screening for those at average risk of colon cancer

A new study found that a three-year interval between screenings using non-invasive multi-target stool DNA testing is clinically appropriate for individuals with average risk of colorectal cancer. The study, led by Thomas F. Imperiale, M.D., identified no colorectal cancers in participants after an initial negative test.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateNov 29, 2022

Diagnoses of suicidal ideation surged among Black pregnant women in 10-year study

A 10-year study found diagnoses of suicidal ideation surged by over 700% among Black pregnant women, while depression diagnoses increased by 66% during the same period. This disparity suggests that many women may be going undiagnosed and untreated until their mental health becomes a crisis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2022

Egyptian mothers’ employment early in children’s life help their daughters stay in work

Research by Lancaster University found that Egyptian mothers' employment during their daughter's adolescence has a long-lasting impact on their daughters' employment stability in adulthood. Employed mothers are more effective role models and bolsters daughters' aspirations, leading to stable public sector employment.

SourceLancaster University·JournalSex Roles·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2022

Long-term benefit of wearing masks for endemic diseases depend on the biology of transmission and immunity

Princeton University researchers found that mask-wearing and social distancing reduce respiratory disease spread in the short term but do not guarantee long-term benefits. Vaccination successfully limits return epidemics, whereas sustained NPIs can lead to increased susceptibility and eventual outbreaks.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2022

High rates of complications and rehospitalizations after abdominal ostomy surgery

A recent study found that patients undergoing abdominal ostomy surgery have high rates of hospital readmissions and emergency department visits, often due to ostomy-related complications. The study analyzed data from nearly 28,000 patients and found that 42% were readmitted within 120 days after initial hospitalization.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Wound Ostomy and Continence Nursing·DateNov 29, 2022

Healthcare workers in Massachusetts prefer strategies supporting education and trusted community-based communication to increase COVID-19 vaccine and booster rates

Healthcare workers in Massachusetts prefer strategies supporting education, trust in community-based communication, and accessibility of vaccination sites to increase COVID-19 vaccine and booster rates. These approaches were seen as more effective than mandates or incentives in improving vaccination uptake.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalHuman Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics·TypeSurvey·DateNov 29, 2022

Excessive television viewing in childhood is a risk factor for later smoking and gambling disorders

A University of Otago study found that excessive leisure time television viewing in childhood and adolescence is associated with a higher risk of alcohol, tobacco, cannabis disorders and disordered gambling in adulthood. This association was independent of other potential influences.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health and Addiction·TypeCase study·DateNov 29, 2022

USTC researchers develop highly hydrated paramagnetic amorphous calcium carbonate nanoclusters as an MRI contrast agent

Researchers at USTC developed a novel MRI contrast agent using highly hydrated paramagnetic amorphous calcium carbonate nanoclusters, exhibiting improved relaxivity and mass production. The material shows great potential in creating efficient diagnostic agents with low toxicity.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2022

Unveiling the mechanism of the metal-to-insulator transition in ruthenium phosphide suggests a new way of looking at solids

Researchers at Nagoya University have uncovered the mechanism behind ruthenium phosphide's transition from metal to insulator, revealing a unique crystal structure and molecular bonding. This discovery could lead to the development of faster responding sensors and smart windows that change light transmittance depending on temperature.

SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 29, 2022

New tools map seizures, improve epilepsy treatment

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed two new models that can identify where seizures originate in the brain, potentially leading to more effective surgeries and improved patient outcomes. The models use machine learning and calculus to analyze brain activity patterns, predicting seizure onset with 79% accuracy.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalBrain·DateNov 29, 2022

Sex roles in the animal kingdom are driven by the ratio of females to males

Research suggests that the ratio of adult females to males influences sex roles in animal species. Variation in this ratio can lead to differences in mate competition, parental care, and social behavior among species. The study proposes that understanding these dynamics can inform conservation efforts.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalBiological Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 29, 2022

Mapping the Arab genome

The Qatar Genome Program aims to decipher the genetic makeup of Middle Eastern populations and build a foundation for precision medicine. With over 30,000 whole genomes collected, researchers are mining genomic data to produce meaningful findings and promote international collaboration.

SourceQatar Foundation·JournalNature Genetics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 29, 2022

The real benefits of walking in a winter wonderland

Research from Anglia Ruskin University reveals that spending time in snowy environments can improve body image and self-compassion. The study found that participants who scored highly in self-compassion displayed greater improvement in body appreciation after walking in a snow-covered woodland.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 29, 2022

Family history, gene variants put black men at risk for early prostate cancer

A recent study by Duke University researchers has identified key risk factors for Black men diagnosed with early-onset prostate cancer. Genetic variants and a family history of cancer are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. The study's findings could help reduce racial disparities in prostate cancer outcomes.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJCO Precision Oncology·DateNov 29, 2022

1930s Dust Bowl led to extreme heat around Northern Hemisphere

The study reveals that the Dust Bowl's extreme heating influenced temperatures across North America and beyond, suppressing cloud formation in some regions. The research suggests that the hot, exposed land in the central US triggered a wave-5 teleconnection pattern, which spread record-breaking heat to Europe and East Asia.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2022

Rutgers researchers discover how immune cells prevent cognitive decline

A Rutgers study suggests that mucosal-associated invariant T cells (MAITs) protect against cognitive decline by creating antioxidant molecules. Injecting MAITs into genetically altered mice restored their cognitive function, and researchers hope to compare MAIT numbers in healthy humans and those with cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Microphytobenthos in the Dutch Wadden Sea feeds on ‘left-overs’ in the bottom

Research reveals that microphytobenthos, a key component of the Dutch Wadden Sea food web, obtains its nutrients primarily from detrital nitrogen in pore water. This finding provides new insights into the ecosystem's dynamics and highlights the importance of considering all nutrient pools in models predicting future changes.

SourceRoyal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateNov 29, 2022

Diet can lower risk of cardiovascular disease by 10 percent, study shows

A new study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that a healthy diet can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 10%. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which emphasizes whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits and vegetables, showed additional benefits for women and black adults compare...

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalThe American Journal of Cardiology·DateNov 29, 2022

Bats use death metal “growls” to make social calls

Researchers studied the larynx of Daubenton's bats and found that different structures are used for high-frequency echolocation calls and lower-frequency social calls. The study reveals that bat vocalizations can be compared to death metal growls, highlighting the animals' unique ability to produce a wide range of sounds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Study finds NYC health inspectors gave only Asian restaurants higher number of citations at start of pandemic

A study by researchers found that NYC health inspectors issued disproportionately high citations to Asian restaurants in January and February 2020, highlighting systemic racism and perpetuation of stereotypes. The study suggests that biases against specific types of restaurants can lead to unequal treatment and exacerbate existing ineq...

SourceNew York University·JournalEthnicities·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 29, 2022

Making “transport” robots smarter

University of Missouri engineers are working on a collaborative human-robot order picking system to speed up the online delivery process. The proposed model aims to optimize key decisions in warehouse operations, allowing robots to navigate efficiently and collaborate with humans to increase efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Production Economics·DateNov 29, 2022

Strongest Arctic cyclone on record led to surprising loss of sea ice

The strongest Arctic cyclone ever observed poleward of 70 degrees north latitude caused a 30% greater loss of sea ice than previous records, with waves reaching up to 100 kilometers towards the center of the ice pack. Researchers suggest that existing models underestimate the impact of big waves on ice floes in the Arctic Ocean.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2022

New paper highlights the co-benefits of coordinating climate action and peacebuilding

A recent paper reveals that climate mitigation and peacebuilding can generate co-benefits, addressing the root causes of both conflict and climate change. The authors recommend collaboration between sectors to create a virtuous cycle, promoting social inclusion, economic opportunities, and conservation of natural environments.

Researchers explore why patients don’t follow up with their doctors after receiving a positive colorectal cancer test

A nationwide questionnaire in Dutch colorectal cancer screening found that concerns about colonoscopy, lack of provider discussion, and personal risk perceptions are common reasons for not following up. Personalized screening counseling and family practitioner involvement may help increase follow-up rates.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 29, 2022

Smart inverters’ vulnerability to cyberattacks needs to be identified and countered, according to Concordia researchers

Concordia researchers identify vulnerabilities in smart inverters to cyberattacks, including reconnaissance, replay, DDoS, and Man-in-the-Middle attacks. These attacks can disrupt energy flow and create power oscillations, severely impeding microgrid functionality.

SourceConcordia University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 29, 2022

Forests benefit from tree species variety and genetic diversity

Forests with multiple tree species have been shown to be more productive, as different species fill distinct niches and compete less. Additionally, genetic diversity within each tree species also promotes forest productivity by increasing resource use efficiency and reducing damage from herbivores and fungi.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 29, 2022

Hunting brain cancer cells

A study published in Trends in Cancer suggests that targeting vulnerabilities in glioblastoma cancer cells, which maintain resemblance to the cells of origin, may lead to effective therapies. The research aims to identify ways to block these identity shifts and develop personalized treatments.

SourceFlinders University·JournalTrends in Cancer·TypeObservational study·DateNov 29, 2022

Magnetic material mops up microplastics in water

Researchers have developed an innovative magnetic adsorbent that can remove microplastics 1,000 times smaller than those detectable by existing wastewater treatment plants. The process takes just one hour, compared to days for current methods.

SourceRMIT University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Increasing crop yields by breeding plants to cooperate

A simple breeding experiment identified genes that promote cooperation and higher yields in plant populations. Plants with specific alleles were found to produce 15% more biomass when grown in close proximity, while reducing root competition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Quantum algorithm of the direct calculation of energy derivatives developed for molecular geometry optimization

A new quantum algorithm allows for the direct calculation of energy derivatives, a crucial step in molecular geometry optimization, using only one query on a quantum computer. This breakthrough enables the computation of energy derivatives with respect to nuclear coordinates in a single calculation.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2022

Modified enzyme brings value to lignin monomers

A team of scientists, led by Marco Fraaije from the University of Groningen, has developed an enzyme that can convert lignin monomers into useful chemical building blocks. The enzyme has been engineered to be stable, selective, and faster in conversion, offering a promising solution for the valorization of biomass.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

University of Limerick, Ireland research demonstrates new method of spinal cord tissue repair

The study successfully synthesised hybrid biomaterials using nanoparticles and showed excellent stem cell attachment and growth on the scaffolds. The material also promoted axonal cell migration towards the site of spinal cord injury, reducing scarring and inflammation. This research holds promise for treating spinal cord injuries.

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalBiomaterials Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 29, 2022

Children have less perceived access to important tools than reported by their parents

A study found that children think they have less access to common measurement tools and toys than their parents. This disparity can hinder STEM interest and success, as prior experience with tools is crucial for self-efficacy. The authors argue that this issue persists due to unnoticed gaps between parental and child perspectives.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalResearch in Science Education·DateNov 29, 2022

Cooling down solar cells, naturally

Researchers found that optimizing solar panel spacing and direction can increase energy production by 2-3% through natural convection. The study's model improves estimates of solar plant efficiency, paving the way for more accurate cost predictions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 29, 2022

New tool allows clinicians to better assess and understand patient satisfaction levels

Researchers developed a spreadsheet tool to analyze large comment samples and identify themes within patient comments. The HCP Review Comment Analysis Tool allows providers to easily analyze patient comments and identify actionable measures of patient satisfaction, providing insights into specific actions by healthcare practitioners.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateNov 29, 2022

THE LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES: New single-dose treatment for sleeping sickness could help eliminate transmission of the disease by 2030

A new study found that a single dose of acoziborole is as effective as current treatments for sleeping sickness, with a cure rate of 95% for late-stage patients and 100% for early/intermediate-stage patients. The treatment could revolutionize treatment for the disease by eliminating barriers such as hospitalization and travel distances.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

High-performance and compact vibration energy harvester created for self-charging wearable devices

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a compact vibration energy harvester that amplifies electric power generated from human walking motion by about 90 times. The device can generate electricity from non-stationary vibrations, including walking motion, to power small wearable devices.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Trends, disparities in firearm fatalities in the US, 1990-2021

A study of 1.1 million firearm fatalities in the US from 1990 to 2021 found increasing disparities in rates between men and women, as well as by racial and ethnic group. These findings highlight the need for public health approaches to address underlying demographic trends and geographic differences in reducing firearm violence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 29, 2022

Researchers investigate neuron differentiation in fruit fly brains

The study reveals that non-coding regions near sloppy-paired genes are essential for temporal transcription factor expression and that Notch-signaling regulates the transition to subsequent TTFs. This mechanism couples temporal patterning with neuron generation, providing insights into brain diversity.

A combination of behaviour change campaigns and technology could help to keep air pollution at a minimum in schools, according to Surrey experts

A new study from the University of Surrey found that behaviour change campaigns and technology can significantly reduce air pollution in schools. Implementing these interventions can lead to a reduction in outdoor nitrogen dioxide exposure by up to 23% compared to business-as-usual activities.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateNov 29, 2022

Bats growl like death metal singers and Mongolian throat singers

A new study reveals that bats use the same technique as human death metal singers and throat singing members to produce sounds. Bats can span 7 octaves with their vocal range, surpassing most mammals. The research team filmed what happens in a bat's larynx when producing sound, showing heavy vocal folds vibrating at low frequencies.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022

Surgical masks are not inferior to N95 masks for health-care workers providing routine COVID-19 care

A randomized trial involving 1,009 healthcare workers in Canada, Egypt, Israel, and Pakistan found that surgical masks were not statistically less effective than N95 respirators in preventing COVID-19 infections. The study provides evidence for the use of surgical masks as an alternative to N95 masks during routine patient care.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 29, 2022

The invention of Lithuanian scientists – AI will become an assistant in voice analysis

Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology and Lithuanian University of Health Sciences developed an AI-based system to evaluate the 'substitute voice' of laryngectomy patients, allowing for faster detection of pathologies. The Acoustic Substitution Voice Index (ASVI) uses acoustic parameters and artificial intelligence methods t...

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalApplied Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2022

New quantum computing feat is a modern twist on a 150-year-old thought experiment

A team of quantum engineers at UNSW Sydney has developed a method to reset a quantum computer using a fast digital voltmeter to watch the temperature of an electron, reducing preparation errors from 20% to 1%. This innovation represents a modern twist on Maxwell's demon, a thought experiment that dates back to 1867.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2022