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Science News Archive 2023 - Page 374


Page 374 of 444

Study: More paid sick leave results in more cancer screenings

A Tulane University study found that areas with paid sick leave mandates experienced significant increases in breast cancer (4%) and colorectal cancer (6-8%) screenings among private sector employees. The findings suggest that non-monetary barriers to healthcare access can have a meaningful impact on health outcomes.

SourceTulane University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 1, 2023

Study forecasts tile drainage and crop rotation changes for nitrogen loss

A new study from the University of Illinois forecasts how increased tile drainage and crop rotation will impact nitrogen loads in Midwestern watersheds. The research team developed a model that reveals the mechanism behind nitrate increases with flow, providing a starting point for reducing nutrient loss.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalWater Research·DateMar 1, 2023

Pediatricians’ interactions with infant formula companies

A new study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found that pediatricians' interactions with infant formula companies can influence their advice on exclusive breastfeeding. The study also revealed that these interactions were more common in private practices and higher-income areas with higher exclusive breastfeeding rates.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeCase study·DateMar 1, 2023

New NASA DART data prove viability of asteroid deflection as planetary defense strategy

The DART mission successfully demonstrates the feasibility of redirecting near-Earth objects like asteroids to prevent large-scale destruction. The spacecraft's impact on Dimorphos, a small asteroid moon, resulted in an orbital change that confirms the viability of asteroid deflection as a planetary defense strategy.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 1, 2023

Cleveland researchers reveal how oxygen is delivered to tissues, open door to new class of drugs

Researchers at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center discovered that S-nitrosohemoglobin senses areas with insufficient oxygen and restores blood flow for oxygenation. This breakthrough opens up a new line of drug development to correct poor tissue oxygenation, including peripheral artery disease and sickle cell disease.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2023

How to generate new neurons in the brain

Researchers at UNIGE and UNIL have discovered the importance of cell metabolism in reactivating quiescent neural stem cells, increasing new neurons in adult mice. This breakthrough could lead to potential treatments for conditions like depression and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScience Advances·TypeNews article·DateMar 1, 2023

Woodcocks have the brightest white feathers ever measured

Researchers discovered that woodcock tail feathers reflect up to 55% of light, 30% more than any other bird feather, due to their unique structure and arrangement. This enhanced reflectance allows them to attract attention in dimly lit environments.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 1, 2023

Testing universality of Feynman-Tan relation in interacting Bose gases using high-order Bragg spectra

The study demonstrates the universality of the Feynman-Tan relation for describing elementary excitation spectra of strongly interacting Bose gases, including those with large mass imbalances. High-order Bragg spectra are used to measure the resonance frequency shift in moderate interaction regions.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMar 1, 2023

Helping construction material manufacturers reduce the energy consumption, carbon footprint of heating and cooling homes

Researchers at Purdue University have created a new method for incorporating phase change materials (PCMs) into building envelope elements, which reduces energy consumption by moderating temperature fluctuations. The process increases the thermal inertia and compressive strength of construction materials while making them more resilien...

SourcePurdue University·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateMar 1, 2023

Study compares third-trimester sound exposures in fetuses, premature infants

Researchers found a fivefold increase in nearby language exposure per day for fetuses relative to preterm infants, highlighting the need to provide similar sound exposures to premature babies. The study also revealed differences in silence and noise levels, with premature infants often exposed to prolonged periods of silence.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Can’t exercise a particular muscle? Strengthening the opposite side of your body can stop it wasting away

A new study found that eccentric contractions prove most effective in preventing muscle wasting and damage after immobilization. Strengthening the unaffected arm through weightlifting also counteracted muscle atrophy, with a stronger cross-education effect observed for eccentric contractions.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2023

Immunotherapy before surgery significantly improves outcomes of patients with melanoma

Researchers found that adding immunotherapy before surgical removal of stage III-IV melanoma significantly improved event-free survival compared to standard-of-care treatment. The study showed that neoadjuvant therapy is superior to the same therapy given in the adjuvant setting.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 1, 2023

Study finds social bird species may be less competitive

A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that more social bird species tend to be weaker competitors. However, when present in groups, these species exhibit increased competitiveness and displace less social birds from feeders.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateMar 1, 2023

Mulching time of forest meadows influences insect diversity

A study by Dr. Maria M. Georgi and colleagues found that mulching times of forest meadows have a negative impact on both insect larvae and flower-visiting insects. Mulching in September was shown to protect the latter, while mulching in June had a negative effect.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalInsect Conservation and Diversity·DateMar 1, 2023

$4M grant helps expand LibreTexts open education platform

The $4 million grant from the California Education Learning Lab will help expand LibreTexts' open homework system ADAPT, designed to provide students with agency in their learning experience. The platform aims to reduce equity gaps in STEM education and increase access to high-quality resources for low-income students.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 1, 2023

Coral-friendly sunscreen provides better UV protection than existing options

Researchers developed a coral-reef-friendly sunscreen by using polymerization to create large molecules that block UV radiation without penetrating skin or coral. The new filter was found to be more effective at preventing sunburn in mice than existing sunscreens, while also being safe for coral and algae.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Physical activity can help mental health in pre-teen years

Research suggests regular physical activity can improve adolescents' mental health and help with behavioral difficulties. Engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity at age 11 was associated with better mental health between ages 11-13.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalMental Health and Physical Activity·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Review of studies finds disparity in presumptive chlamydia and gonorrhea treatment rates despite CDC guidelines

A review of studies found that rates of presumptive treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea vary widely, with some areas treating up to 84% of patients while others treated less than 4%. The disparity highlights the need for standardized treatment guidelines and consideration of social determinants of health.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateMar 1, 2023

Traumas in children and adolescents can be treated effectively

A meta-analysis by researchers at the University of Münster confirms that trauma-focused therapy is highly effective for treating PTSD in children and adolescents. The study found that this form of therapy can change patients' thought patterns and behaviors, enabling them to confront their trauma under therapist supervision.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 1, 2023

Tracking data reveals how seabird species adopt different strategies to cope with extreme storms

Researchers investigated how seabird flight characteristics vary among different species in response to cyclone-strength winds. Birds living in windier environments are faster fliers, while tropical species use strategies to cope with extreme events. Some albatrosses even avoid strong winds by flying into the eye of the storm.

SourceSwansea University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2023

Rare quasar triplet forms most massive object in universe

A rare quasar triplet formed a massive black hole with a mass of 10 billion solar masses, according to recent simulations. The triple system, composed of three galaxies with supermassive black holes at their centers, is believed to be the progenitor of ultra-massive black holes.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 1, 2023

How bacteria invade the brain

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a neuroimmune axis that bacteria exploit to cause infection, allowing the spread of meningitis into the brain. Blocking key players in this molecular chain can interrupt the cascade and thwart bacterial invasion.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Obstacles for breast cancer prevention in high-risk Black women

A new study found that high-risk Black women face significant barriers to breast cancer prevention, including a focus on spiritual well-being over risk management and limited access to specialists. Women in this group were less likely to prioritize preventive measures and more likely to report competing priorities in their lives.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 1, 2023

Aerospace: research by the Politecnico di Milano protagonist of the launch of the NASA DART impactor

The Politecnico di Milano has successfully contributed to the DART mission, a historic planetary defense test that deflected an asteroid's trajectory. The mission's scientific results reveal the effectiveness of kinetic impact technology in planetary defense and provide insights into the structure and evolution of binary asteroids.

SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

New study unveils epigenetic ‘traffic lights’ controlling stop and go for gene activity

A major new study in the journal Nature reveals a 'traffic light' mechanism controlling genetic activity within cells. The research describes how epigenetic changes act as a stop-go signal determining whether a gene should be read, and how this system could potentially be targeted by cancer drugs already in development.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Despite misperceptions, hormone therapy may actually reduce risk of lung cancer

A large new study found that hormone therapy does not increase the risk of lung cancer development in postmenopausal women and may even reduce it. The study, based on data from over 38,000 women, suggests that higher cumulative dosages of hormone therapy are associated with a lower risk of developing lung cancer.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2023

Wastewater study monitors Houston schools for viral threats

A new study by Rice University and Houston Health Department shows that wastewater-based monitoring is an effective way to detect viral outbreaks in schools. The system allows for early detection of illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, enabling strategies to stop the onset of potential outbreaks.

SourceRice University·JournalWater Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 1, 2023

Research finds that deposit insurance and bank runs in reverse

Researchers found that deposit insurance motivates people to keep deposits immediately below the insured threshold, leading to 'bunching' behavior. An increase in insured deposits also causes savers to change their asset allocation and increase their deposits.

SourceBocconi University·JournalReview of Financial Studies·DateMar 1, 2023

AI draws most accurate map of star birthplaces in the Galaxy

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University used AI to create a detailed map of star birthplaces in the Milky Way Galaxy. The team identified 140,000 molecular clouds and estimated their distance, size, and mass with high accuracy.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 1, 2023

New study shows how machine learning can improve care for people with Rett syndrome

A new study published in PLOS One demonstrates the potential of machine learning and artificial intelligence to aid in the development of new treatments for Rett syndrome. The researchers used a wearable electronic chest patch to monitor cardiac activity and movement, and developed an algorithm that identified patterns specific to seve...

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateMar 1, 2023

Ice-cold electron beams for ultra-compact X-ray lasers

Researchers at the University of Strathclyde have simulated ice-cold electron beams that can produce powerful coherent photon pulses with pulse durations in the attosecond regime. The breakthrough could lead to the development of ultra-compact X-ray lasers, reducing their size from kilometres to just tens of metres.

SourceUniversity of Strathclyde·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Vitamin B5 could help improve red blood cell production in people with Myelodysplastic syndromes

Researchers have discovered that the enzyme COASY plays a critical role in regulating red blood cell production in the bone marrow. Vitamin B5 supplementation and another metabolite increased the maturation of red blood cells in patients with Myelodysplastic syndromes, offering new hope for alternative treatments.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Lipid nanoparticles highly effective in gene therapy

Gene therapy using CRISPR-Cas9 lipid nanoparticles has been shown to be highly effective in reducing target protein expression in mice. The new delivery system increases the efficiency of in vivo gene therapy, paving the way for safe and effective treatment.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

What distinguishes fans from celebrity stalkers?

A survey study of U.S. college students found that individuals who frequently think about their favorite celebrities, feel compelled to learn more about them, and are prone to boredom are more likely to engage in celebrity stalking behaviors. These factors were not associated with anger or thrill seeking.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateMar 1, 2023

National Comprehensive Cancer Network updates annual conference with new in-person venue, hybrid format, expert-led sessions, highlighted research perspectives, and small-group conversations

The NCCN Annual Conference will debut a new hybrid format featuring in-person events at a new venue, allowing for hallway conversations and networking opportunities. The conference will also showcase more than 100 abstract poster presentations on various oncology-related categories.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·DateMar 1, 2023

Metal ion plasma generation under strong magnetic field

Researchers discovered metal ion plasma generation under strong magnetic field using microwave resonator, maintaining plasma state for extended periods. This method has potential to reduce energy consumption and improve semiconductor manufacturing processes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAIP Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

UCO studies yield a better understanding of how cyanobacteria take advantage of glucose

Researchers at the University of Córdoba have shed light on how marine cyanobacteria, the most abundant photosynthetic organisms on Earth, take advantage of glucose as a source of energy. They found that glucose transport is greater during the day and follows a different circadian cycle than other bacteria in the same area.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

New mathematical model shows promising results for prostate cancer treatment

A new mathematical model has been developed to optimize treatment for prostate cancer, showing promising results in eliminating cancer cells. The model explores different therapeutic strategies, including single drugs and drug combinations, and suggests that alternating therapies could significantly improve cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalMathematical Biosciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 1, 2023

America on the move: How urban travel has changed over a decade

A Florida Atlantic University study reveals that while private automobiles remain dominant, the share of car trips has decreased since its peak in 2001. In contrast, transit, non-motorized, and taxicab trips have increased. Lower-income groups rely heavily on public transportation due to limited mobility options.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 1, 2023

Ice Age survivors

The study of 356 prehistoric hunter-gatherers from across Eurasia sheds light on the movements and genetic replacements of ancient populations. Genetic analysis reveals that populations in western Europe took shelter during the Last Glacial Maximum, while those in central and southern Europe died out or replaced with new gene pools.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature·DateMar 1, 2023

Scientists discover how to prevent death of nerve cells in most common forms of MND and dementia

Researchers at the University of Sheffield's Institute of Translational Neuroscience have discovered a novel way to block the transportation of mutant RNA and toxic repeat proteins that lead to the death of nerve cells in most common forms of motor neurone disease (MND) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Using a peptide, they found tha...

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

Four ways to reduce unwanted iodized table salt reactions when boiling pasta

Researchers have identified four simple ways to minimize the formation of potentially harmful disinfection byproducts when cooking pasta with iodized table salt and chloramine-treated water. By using straining noodles and boiling without a lid, people can significantly reduce their exposure to these compounds.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 1, 2023

Wastewater sector emits nearly twice as much methane as previously thought

New research reveals that municipal wastewater treatment plants release significantly more methane into the atmosphere than previously estimated. The findings suggest that existing guidelines underestimate emissions equivalent to 5.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. Anaerobic digesters, used in some facilities, are particularly s...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 2023

New study shows people are willing to start cycling more post-COVID-19 pandemic

A new study by University of Central Florida researchers found that people who are more environmentally friendly and satisfied with their life are more likely to cycle post-pandemic. The survey analysis of over 7,000 respondents showed a significant increase in cycling intentions among women without vehicles and full-time employees.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 28, 2023

Breathing is going to get tougher

A new study finds that rising temperatures will increase harmful plant emissions and dust, leading to a 14% boost in air pollution. The degradation in future air quality from natural sources is predicted to be significant, with two-thirds of the pollution coming from plants.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateFeb 28, 2023