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Science News for October 12, 2022


Revealing the mysteries of the universe under the skin of an atomic nucleus

A breakthrough computer model from Chalmers University of Technology reveals the properties of an atomic nucleus, providing insights into the strong force that governs neutron star behavior. The model predicts a surprisingly thin neutron skin, which could lead to increased understanding of heavy element creation in neutron stars.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2022

Americans harmed by COVID-19 more likely to advocate for equality

A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that individuals who experienced personal harm during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to support and advocate for equality, particularly those who contracted COVID-19 or lost their jobs. This shift in attitudes was attributed to a greater understanding of structural facto...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Dinosaur “mummies” might not be as unusual as we think

Researchers propose a new explanation for how dinosaur mummies might form, suggesting desiccation and deflation as a common pathway. This process is also observed in modern animal carcasses, revealing that rare fossils may not be as unusual as previously thought.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2022

Not so dumb: goldfish show a keen ability to estimate distances

Researchers at the University of Oxford discovered that goldfish can accurately estimate distances by processing visual cues. The study found that goldfish use 'optic flow' to estimate distance, unlike terrestrial animals which rely on changes in angle between their eye and surrounding objects.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Dual-polarity photoconductivity in semiconductor nanowires

Researchers have created III-nitride/MoSx core-shell nanostructures with negative and positive photoresponsivity under different wavelengths, demonstrating a new universal photodetector architecture. This breakthrough enables spectrally sensitive photoelectrochemical photodetectors for various applications.

Wavelength stable green InGaN micro LEDs monolithically grown on silicon substrate

Scientists overcome barriers in conventional LED technology by creating III-nitride submicron-scale green µLEDs with a bottom-up approach. The devices feature arrays of nanowires with a core-shell multiple-quantum-well structure, which alleviate color instability and maintain peak wavelength stability despite changes in current injection.

Data show Mass General Brigham’s ‘Clinics on Wheels’ increased access to COVID-19 services for underserved populations

The initiative vaccinated a significantly higher rate of young people, non-white populations, and Hispanic people than the average for the state and target communities. The program used a 'double equity' model to engage with local transportation companies and administered over 20,000 COVID-19 vaccination doses.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2022

Research shows how poliovirus takes over cells from within

Poliovirus researchers at Umeå University have gained a new understanding of how the virus behaves in infected cells, revealing key protein roles and cellular processes involved. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new antiviral treatments and vaccines targeting the autophagy system.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateOct 12, 2022

Controversial approach aims to expand plastics recycling

Major chemical companies are backing pyrolysis plants to expand plastics recycling, but environmentalists remain skeptical. The process converts plastic waste into hydrocarbon feedstocks that can be turned into plastics again, making up for the shortcomings of traditional recycling which captures only about 9% of plastics in the US.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 12, 2022

Research project seeks solutions for profitable algae production – great potential for climate change mitigation

A two-year research project aims to overcome technical difficulties in large-scale algae cultivation, a promising method for climate change mitigation. The ROBA project focuses on developing economically feasible algal cultivation processes using advanced measurement technologies and bioprocess engineering.

Fighting ovarian cancer

A new potential antitumor drug, TRIP, causes rapid protein aggregation, hyperactivating the unfolded protein response and leading to programmed cell death in ovarian cancer cells. The Fe-S cluster biogenesis factor NUBP2 is identified as the probable starting point for the cellular processes triggered by TRIP.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Smoking, diabetes and obesity – not preexisting heart disease – bigger risk of COVID-19 death, study finds

A national study found that patients with cardiovascular disease had a higher mortality rate than those without, but this association was largely due to shared risk factors. Myocardial injury was common among critically ill COVID-19 patients and associated with poor outcomes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Powerful enzyme that tamps down inflammation holds promise for protecting the eyes in diabetes, premature birth

Researchers found that increasing arginase 1 availability helps alleviate unhealthy responses and interrupt destructive inflammation in diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity. This is achieved by reducing L-arginine levels, which in turn reduces inducible nitric oxide synthase activity.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalCell Death and Disease·DateOct 12, 2022

Bees active in woodland tree-tops, research shows

New research from the University of East Anglia reveals that wild bees are actively foraging in the sunlit woodland canopy, particularly among Sycamore trees. A diverse community of wild bees was found to thrive in this habitat, with nectar and pollen-rich trees providing essential food sources.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

The New England Journal of Medicine published the important achievements of First Affiliate Hospital of the University of Sciences and Technology in China in the acute treatment of stroke

The study, led by Prof. Wei Hu, demonstrates that endovascular thrombectomy improves functional outcomes and reduces mortality in patients with basilar arterial occlusion compared to standard medical therapy. The trial, ATTENTION, provides high-quality evidence on the efficacy and safety of this treatment for acute basilar artery occlu...

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 12, 2022

Reaching new heights in largest ever genome study

Researchers have analyzed data from 5.4 million people to uncover 12,000 genetic variants influencing height, explaining 40% of differences. This breakthrough enables the prediction of height with greater accuracy, particularly for children, and has implications for medical investigation and police investigations.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Genetic testing helps detect children likely to have heart failure and require a transplant

Researchers have developed genetic testing to diagnose cardiomyopathy in children, identifying those at risk of heart failure and requiring a transplant. The test provides precise clinical diagnosis, enabling targeted treatment options and reducing the need for life-threatening interventions.

SourceCentenary Institute·JournalCirculation Genomic and Precision Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Providence study reveals high incidence of chronic kidney disease in diabetes beset by disparities

A study reveals a high incidence of chronic kidney disease among adults with diabetes, particularly affecting Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Black, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Hispanic/Latino(a) groups. The rate of new onset CKD was higher in these groups by approximately 60%, 40%, 33%, and 25% compared to White persons with ...

SourceProvidence Health & Services·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Endangered fruit-eating animals play an outsized role in a tropical forest — losing them could have dire consequences

A new study reveals that losing endangered fruit-eating animals in the Atlantic Forest could severely disrupt seed-dispersal networks, leaving plants without an effective means to regenerate. Nearly 55% of specialist plant species rely solely on these frugivores for seed dispersal.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Illinois Tech researchers extract personal information from anonymous cell phone data using machine learning, raising data security and privacy concerns

A team of Illinois Tech researchers used machine learning to estimate the age and gender of individual users with high accuracy, raising questions about data security and privacy. The study highlights the need for better regulations and best practices to protect personal information from being misused.

First-of-its-kind database tracks agricultural phosphorus use world-wide

A new database quantifying cropland phosphorus budgets around the world helps identify nutrient management gaps in different regions. The study provides valuable insights into phosphorus management challenges and opportunities in various countries, shedding light on how to improve global phosphorus use efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

New research highlights lack of follow-up care for youth and young adults after hospitalization or ER visit for mental health

A study of over 100,000 emergency room visits and 95,000 mental health hospitalizations found that less than half received follow-up care within 30 days. Having established primary care and mental health care before an acute psychiatric service use is crucial for improving follow-up rates.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Baffling ‘spiderweb’ star is a nesting binary – not an alien megastructure

Researchers from the University of Sydney explain that the James Webb Space Telescope's 'spiderweb' image is not an alien megastructure but rather a series of concentric dust shells created by a binary system. The team discovered that the stars in the system interact through stellar winds, producing shock fronts and spiral-shaped plumes.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2022

How advanced optical tweezers revolutionized cell manipulation

Optical tweezers have evolved to trap, sort, transport, and enrich various biological particles with finer force strength and non-invasive nature. This enables applications in biology, pharmacology, and clinical research fields, offering a promising tool for understanding human life at the single-cell level.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateOct 12, 2022

Study shows that students compare their math performance with their own reading performance to determine whether they are a “math person” or “reading person”

A study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that students increasingly rely on dimensional comparisons to define their math and reading abilities. This tendency, present since grade 1, contributes to the formation of specialized academic identities in high school. The findings suggest that students tend to think...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateOct 12, 2022

Watch brain cells in a dish learn to play Pong in real time

Researchers successfully taught human and mouse neurons to play the video game Pong in real-time, showcasing their ability to exhibit sentience and adapt to a changing environment. The study's findings have potential applications in disease modeling, drug discoveries, and expanding our understanding of brain function.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

The ultimate death stare: How moth wing patterns scare off predatory birds with amazing optical illusion

Researchers found that moth wings with forward-facing eyespots are more effective at deterring predators than those with concentric circle patterns. The study suggests that the direction of gaze affects the predator's motivation to attack, supporting the idea that eyespots are used to maintain eye contact with predators.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Nine postdoctoral fellowships in aging research awarded by the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research and AFAR

The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) and the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research have announced the recipients of the 2022 Glenn Foundation for Medical Research Postdoctoral Fellowships in Aging Research. Nine postdoc fellows will receive $60,000 fellowships to advance research on aging biology, geroscience, and potentia...

New polymer made from recycled waste has real magnetic appeal

Researchers at Flinders University have created a new multi-functional material that can be used to purify water, as a recyclable construction material, and as a lightweight machine component for possible use in soft robotics. The material combines magnetic iron particles with a sulfur-rich polymer and can be moved remotely by a magnet.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPolymer Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Threatened Aldabra giant tortoise genome decoded

Researchers at the University of Zurich have successfully decoded the genome of Aldabrachelys gigantea, one of the world's two remaining giant tortoise species. The reference genome provides crucial information for breeding programs in zoos to represent genetic diversity and conservation efforts across East Africa and Madagascar.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalGigaScience·DateOct 12, 2022

Opioid addiction treatment disparities could worsen if phone telehealth option ends, study suggests

A new study suggests that phone calls and video chats can help patients access care, especially for those with barriers to traditional in-person visits. The study found that veterans who received virtual visits were more likely to stay on buprenorphine treatment, but there were disparities by race, housing status, and age.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Holistic evolution of charge transfer to photocatalyst surface sites mapped for first time

Scientists have revealed the complex mechanisms behind charge transfer in photocatalyst particles, providing insights into designing more efficient photocatalysts. The research used multiple techniques to map the spatiotemporal evolution of charge transfers, showing that built-in electric fields and defects can aid in charge separation.

Are smartwatch health apps to detect atrial fibrillation smart enough?

A study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that smartwatch health apps detecting atrial fibrillation generated a high rate of false positives and inconclusive results, especially in patients with certain cardiac conditions. Better algorithms and machine learning may help improve the accuracy of these devices.

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Lifestyle factors may act as preventative measures against severe COVID-19

A new study suggests that lifestyle choices can help prevent severe COVID-19 by reducing chronic inflammation and regulating the immune system. By adopting healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced diet, and stress management, individuals can lower their risk of developing severe disease and mitigate post-infection symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·DateOct 12, 2022

How do tired animals stay awake?

Researchers studying fruit flies found that brain neurons adapt to help the flies stay awake despite tiredness in dangerous situations, and fall asleep after an intense day. Time-restricted feeding also improved sleep quality in the flies, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for humans.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

‘We’ve never seen anything like this before:’ Black hole spews out material years after shredding star

Astronomers were surprised to find that a black hole is ejecting material at half the speed of light nearly three years after shredding a nearby star. The delayed outflow challenges scientists' understanding of black hole feeding behavior, with one researcher likening it to a 'black hole burping'.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateOct 12, 2022

Career advancement slower for women in entomology, study finds

Women pursuing careers in entomology face persistent challenges in obtaining jobs compared to men. The study found that men published more research articles and were first authors on average, leading to higher H-index scores. Women are also less likely to hold industry positions as technical representatives and research scientists.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

New abiotic pathway for the formation of oxygen

Researchers have discovered a new abiotic pathway for the formation of oxygen molecules, using sulphur dioxide as a precursor. This process can explain the presence of oxygen in the atmospheres of several Jupiter's moons, including Io, Europa and Ganymede, where biological life is absent.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

UNC-Chapel Hill researchers detect early deprivation continues to affect brain development well into adolescence

A new study published in Science Advances shows that early deprivation can have long-lasting effects on brain development, even into adolescence. Children who were randomly placed into high-quality foster care before the age of 3 had changes in areas of the brain supporting higher-order problem-solving years later.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 12, 2022

Study validates diagnostic assay for Asian cancers

A Singapore research team has validated a cancer diagnostic assay designed with Asian-centric biomarkers, showing high precision and sensitivity in measuring four major classes of biomarkers. The assay's performance was validated with clinical specimens, indicating its promise for reliable deployment in a clinical setting.

SourceSingHealth·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 12, 2022

Computer platform helps match patients with cancer to trials of targeted therapy

A new platform developed at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute helps match patients with cancer to trials of targeted therapy by analyzing genomic alterations in their tumors. The platform, called MatchMiner, has been shown to expedite the process of finding an appropriate trial for patients, reducing the time to consent by 22%.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·Journalnpj Precision Oncology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Infections can have long-term consequences

A VUB study has mapped the immune system's response to brain infections, revealing that resident macrophages play a key role in defending against pathogens. The researchers found that blood-derived immune cells can eliminate parasites, but may retain 'memory' of past infections, altering their ability to respond to future insults.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalImmunity·DateOct 12, 2022

Putting liquid biopsies on solid ground: cancer diagnosis from a milliliter of blood

Researchers developed a multiparameter approach for diagnosing cancer using a small blood sample, finding distinct patterns of epigenetic marking and protein segments between healthy individuals and cancer patients. The technology has shown high precision, with 92% accuracy, and could lead to a non-invasive and cost-effective blood test.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 12, 2022

Black hole discovered firing jets at neighboring galaxy

Astronomers have discovered a rare system featuring a black hole spewing a jet at a neighboring galaxy, providing insights into radio jet feedback and its impact on star formation. The unique nature of RAD12 has allowed researchers to study the interaction between the black hole's jet and the companion galaxy.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 12, 2022

Scientists say PFAS contamination should be presumed at over 57,000 US sites

A new study identifies over 57,400 locations across the US as potentially contaminated with PFAS, including industrial facilities and areas where fluorinated firefighting foams have been used. The research team developed a presumptive contamination model to help governments and industries rapidly identify potential exposure sources.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateOct 12, 2022

Global Biobank Meta-analysis Initiative making genome-wide association studies more diverse and representative

The Global Biobank Meta-analysis Initiative has made significant advancements in expanding genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to include more diverse and representative data from around the world. By analyzing genomic data from over 2 million individuals across four continents, researchers have identified new genetic variants asso...

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Genomics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

COVID-19 pandemic hurt academic experience for African international students, MU study finds

A recent MU study found that COVID-19 significantly impacted the academic experiences of African international students, with travel limitations, restricted employment opportunities, and family concerns making it difficult to focus on studies. The findings highlight the need for tailored support from universities during times of crisis.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalApplied Research in Quality of Life·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

Analysis of US Endangered Species Act finds species are protected too late, with too small populations, and with insufficient funding, undermining the Act's effectiveness

The study finds that many species are protected too late, with insufficient time to recover and breed, and with limited financial resources to support conservation efforts. This analysis highlights the need for improved policy and increased funding to effectively protect endangered species in the US.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 12, 2022

Human brain cells in a dish learn to play Pong

Researchers created living brain cells in a dish that can perform goal-directed tasks and adapt to changes, opening doors for new understanding of brain function. The study also raises possibilities for alternative animal testing and biomimetic research.

SourceCortical Labs·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022

New computational tools to help target sex, labor trafficking operations

Researchers developed computational models to identify massage businesses at risk of violating laws related to sex and labor trafficking. The models provide probability scores on the likelihood that a business is engaged in illegal activity, allowing law enforcement and organizations to prioritize investigations.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIISE Transactions·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2022

Does reducing screen time increase productivity? Not necessarily

A new study from San Diego State University's Fowler College of Business found that monitoring cellphone screen time with specific goals in mind can lead to higher perceived productivity and user satisfaction. However, excessive self-monitoring can induce fatigue and weaken the effect on productivity.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalAIS Transactions on Human-Computer Interaction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 12, 2022

Dissipative soliton generation and real-time dynamics in microresonator-filtered fiber lasers

Researchers have developed a new type of microcomb that generates dissipative solitons with flat-top spectral shape, enabling high-capacity optical communication. The new design also achieves self-starting operation, high mode efficiency, and low output power, making it suitable for real-world applications.

Night sweats versus hot flashes

A new study by the University of Massachusetts found that night sweats are significantly associated with depression and stress, while hot flashes are mainly linked to depression. Women experiencing night sweats may be at a greater disadvantage due to sleep disturbances.

ASHG 2022 in Los Angeles brings together researchers from around the world to advance discoveries in genetics, genomics research

Thousands of human genomics and genetics researchers, clinicians, and experts will attend the annual ASHG meeting in Los Angeles, presenting nearly 400 live presentations, over 2,500 published posters, and 200 exhibitors. The program features exciting sessions highlighting breakthroughs in research progress and emerging issues.

Under pressure: rethinking coastal land use and adaptation strategies

Researchers found that conventional engineered solutions are limited in their ability to adapt to climate change, while nature-based solutions can help coasts absorb impacts of coastal floods and storm surges. The study suggests a shift towards resilience strategies such as living shorelines, constructed wetlands, and strategic retreat.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalEnvironmental Management·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2022