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Science News Archive April 2023 - Page 2


Page 2 of 37

Ohio University professor Nancy Stevens helps uncover ecosystem evolution in Africa in paper published in Science

Researchers found evidence of abundant C4 grasses and habitat heterogeneity in eastern Africa, challenging previous reconstructions of early Miocene ecosystems. The study pushes back the oldest evidence of C4 grass-dominated habitats by over 10 million years, with implications for primate evolution and tropical ecosystem origins.

SourceOhio University·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateApr 28, 2023

Older drivers drinking or using drugs up to four times likelier to be at fault during a car crash

A new study found that older drivers who use substances are up to four times more likely to be at fault in a car crash. The research team suggests implementing risk awareness campaigns tailored for older adults and other measures such as improved road visibility, automatic safety features and licensing requirements.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalTraffic Injury Prevention·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 28, 2023

New bean genome unveils potential to boost food security and resilience in drought-prone regions

African-led research sequenced the genome of a drought-resistant bean, paving the way for genetic improvements to promote widespread cultivation. The lablab bean offers nutritional and economic benefits, as well as improved soil fertility, making it an important crop for diversified food systems.

SourceInternational Livestock Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

6% of nations provide for citizens in just, sustainable manner

Researchers at Ohio State University found that only 6% of countries provide for all citizens in an ecologically sustainable way. The study measured the ecological and social impact of water and carbon use, finding that while 67% operate safely and sustainably in water use, only 9% do in carbon sequestration. The US is among the majori...

SourceOhio State University·JournalOne Earth·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 28, 2023

Are the least social animals the most innovative?

A study by the University of Barcelona found that individuals less integrated in groups and more afraid of new objects were best at solving challenges. Dromedaries and goats were among the most skilled animals, with success rates of 86% and 69%, respectively.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2023

Treatment of children with ADHD

A recent study reveals that many children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are not receiving adequate treatment. The findings highlight the need for improved communication and access to outpatient mental health care for children with ADHD.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 28, 2023

CityU establishes the first UNESCO Regional Training and Research Centre on coastal contaminant monitoring in Hong Kong for the Western Pacific region

The City University of Hong Kong (CityU) has been approved to establish the first UNESCO Regional Training and Research Centre on coastal contaminant monitoring in Hong Kong, focusing on the Western Pacific region. The centre aims to strengthen marine pollution monitoring, promote innovative technologies, and facilitate international r...

Multi-phase veteran engagement leads to first survey tailored to address employment barriers and strategies for injured veterans

Researchers have adapted a nationally representative survey to reflect the employment experiences of veterans with spinal cord injury, addressing chronic high unemployment. The KFNEDS-Veteran Survey aims to learn about how employers approach hiring, accommodating, and advancing these veterans.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalProgress in Community Health Partnerships Research Education and Action·TypeSurvey·DateApr 27, 2023

How spheres become worms

Scientists have identified a novel mechanism of gel formation in synthetic polymers, which leads to the creation of worm-like structures. This breakthrough has significant implications for biofabrication and could lead to the development of new medical implants, contact lenses, and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Mental imagery a helpful way to distract teens from negative thought patterns, OSU study finds

A recent study from Oregon State University found that refocusing on mental imagery is a more effective distraction than verbal thoughts for adolescents stuck in negative thought spirals. The study, led by Hannah Lawrence, suggests that mental imagery can help break up the thought spiral and seek help from a therapist or support system.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Researchers develop high-performance 2D pseudocapacitive multi-electron reaction lithium storage material

Researchers developed a high-performance 2D pseudocapacitive multi-electron reaction lithium storage material, exhibiting high capacity and ultrafast charging capabilities. The material showed improved electronic and ionic conductivity, reducing polarization and increasing overall energy density.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 27, 2023

AI breakthrough in detecting leading cause of childhood blindness

A deep learning AI model has been developed to screen for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants at risk of blindness. The tool was trained on images of newborns and found to be as effective as senior paediatric ophthalmologists in discriminating normal retinal images from those with ROP that could lead to blindness.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Digital Health·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2023

Improving geriatric surgical quality is feasible for a wide range of hospitals

A national pilot program evaluated the implementation of geriatric surgery standards in eight hospitals with variable sizes and resources, finding high levels of compliance. The study highlights the scalability and feasibility of the program, which aims to optimize care for older adults in a wide range of hospital settings.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 27, 2023

Novel biomarker score could help measure adherence to Mediterranean diet

Researchers developed a novel biomarker-based indicator of the Mediterranean diet, which incorporates levels of fatty acids and carotenoids in blood. The study found that those with higher scores had lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, suggesting a stronger link than self-reported diet adherence.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2023

Liverpool begins first human trial of new Zika vaccine

The University of Liverpool is conducting a Phase I trial of a new Zika virus vaccine designed for pregnant women, which has shown promising results in animal studies. The vaccine aims to generate highly protective and long-lasting immunity against the mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe foetal birth defects.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 27, 2023

Bold new therapy delivery method shows initial promise as treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A new therapy delivery method, using modified viruses engineered with fusogens Myomaker and Myomerger, shows promise as a treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The vector can deliver a vital gene needed for muscle function to cells, potentially providing a lifelong supply of the missing gene.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Hollings team IDs protein that helps cancer cells in cell division process

A research team from the Medical University of South Carolina identified a protein called TACC3 that enables cancer cells to successfully divide despite an abnormality that should lead to their death. This discovery offers new hope for developing targeted therapies to selectively kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells intact.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateApr 27, 2023

Better cryoprotection for red blood cells

Researchers have discovered ultra-thin metal-organic layers that prevent ice crystal formation in red blood cells during freezing and thawing. These nanolayers, made from metal-organic frameworks based on hafnium, show excellent cryoprotection at minimal concentrations, potentially leading to new and efficient cryoprotectants.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

AI in the ICU

A team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon University has developed an AI-based system to help clinicians make decisions quickly and precisely in the ICU. The system, called the AI Clinician Explorer, provides recommendations for treating sepsis based on data from over 18,000 patients.

In yeast, altering genetic circuitry that controls how an aging cell dies enhances longevity

Researchers engineered a synthetic gene oscillator in yeast cells, manipulating the expression of two transcriptional regulators to create sustained oscillations between cellular degeneration states. This delay enhances lifespan by 82%, offering a proof-of-concept for using synthetic biology to reprogram cellular aging. The findings ma...

In a ‘rapid autopsy’ study, UCLA researchers identify lethal molecular alterations after present-day therapies fail patients with metastatic melanoma

Researchers analyzed genetic changes in organs of recently deceased patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma to understand how the disease spreads and evolves. They found that cancer cells take advantage of specific organ environments, pointing to the need for distinct treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Ant mounds are more important for biodiversity than previously thought

New research reveals that ant mounds on Danish heathlands are crucial for biodiversity. The heat and nutrients from these structures create a unique environment that allows certain plant species to thrive. This finding highlights the importance of preserving ant mounds as part of efforts to mitigate the biodiversity crisis.

SourceAarhus University·JournalArthropod-Plant Interactions·TypeObservational study·DateApr 27, 2023

Novel combination of gene therapy and chemotherapy may provide new treatment option in bone cancer

Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic target and developed a unique delivery system to treat osteosarcoma, a bone cancer primarily affecting children and adolescents. The novel combination of gene therapy and chemotherapy may improve treatment outcomes and aid in the repair of damaged bones during chemotherapy.

SourceUCD Research & Innovation·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 27, 2023

Higher rates of autism and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in American children

A recent study found that American children are experiencing higher rates of autism and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, with special education services increasing by 10.4%. Poor nutrition and heavy metal exposure, particularly in ultra-processed foods, are thought to be primary epigenetic factors contributing to the developme...

SourceFood Ingredient and Health Research Institute·JournalWorld Journal of Clinical Pediatrics·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 27, 2023

*Free* Zoonomia Project: Genomes from 240 mammalian species explain human disease risks, uncommon mammalian traits, and beyond

The Zoonomia Project has cataloged the diversity in the genomes of 240 mammalian species, providing insights into human health and disease. The research identifies regions of the human genome that have remained unchanged for millions of years and reveals genetic variants linked to rare and common diseases.

Comparing the genes of 240 species of mammals—and one famous dog—offers a powerful new approach for understanding biology and evolutionary history

Researchers have compared the genes of 240 species of mammals, including a famous sled dog named Balto, to gain insights into biological and evolutionary processes. The study identifies pinpointing genes that underlie complex traits like hibernation and brain size.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

How dormant bacteria come back to life

Researchers at Harvard Medical School discovered a new cellular sensor that allows dormant bacteria to detect nutrients and quickly spring back to life. This breakthrough could inform the design of ways to prevent dangerous bacterial spores from lying dormant for months before waking up again and causing outbreaks.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Is the ocean a solution for ushering in the era of environmentally friendly energy?

Researchers at POSTECH developed seawater batteries with improved performance by incorporating chelating agents, overcoming limitations of traditional lithium-ion batteries. The new design achieved high energy efficiency and capacity, making it a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage systems.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateApr 27, 2023