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Science News for August 8, 2023


Bees and ETRVs: an unlikely match-up of the natural world and electric trackless rubber-tyred vehicles

The study uses an improved artificial bee colony algorithm to minimize potential issues with ETRVs, such as excessive energy consumption and operational safety concerns. The algorithm successfully finds the most competitive solution on all instances, achieving significant improvement over other comparative algorithms.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalComplex System Modeling and Simulation·DateAug 8, 2023

How to increase acceptance of an RSV vaccine? Explain the FDA’s vaccine approval process

A new study by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that people are more likely to recommend an RSV vaccine if they understand the rigorous process of the FDA's vaccine approval process. The study showed that 57% of those exposed to a flowchart were very or somewhat likely to recommend the vaccine, compared to 40% in a control group.

World’s largest study shows the more you walk, the lower your risk of death, even if you walk fewer than 5,000 steps

The study found that walking at least 3967 steps a day reduces the risk of dying from any cause, while 2337 steps a day reduces the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The researchers also found that every 500-1000 extra steps increase health benefits and reduce mortality risk by up to 15%.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023

TNMSC researchers create high-performance aluminum matrix composites with asymmetric cryocooling

Scientists have developed a new method to manufacture high-performance aluminum matrix composites using asymmetric cryorolling, resulting in improved mechanical properties and increased ductility. The technique produces sheets with fewer microvoids, finer grain size, and higher density of dislocations.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2023

How psychedelic drugs affect a rat’s brain

Researchers at Lund University discovered that psychedelic substances LSD and ketamine cause simultaneous synchronisation of neurons in several brain regions. This phenomenon is linked to the psychedelic experience and may hold clues for understanding psychoses and consciousness.

SourceLund University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateAug 8, 2023

City-dwelling wildlife demonstrate “urban trait syndrome”

A study of 379 cities across 6 continents found that city-dwelling organisms have evolved smaller body sizes, diverse diets, and changes in reproduction and foraging strategies. The 'urban trait syndrome' affects different species groups, such as birds, beetles, and reptiles, with varying levels of mobility and dietary adaptations.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023

Swap-to-stop’ but let us shop - say vapers

A new study from the University of East Anglia found that most vapers believe a 'Swap-to-Stop' scheme providing free e-cigarettes would have helped them quit smoking. However, some respondents prefer to purchase e-cigarettes commercially due to personal preference for specific products.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPerspectives in Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2023

Critically endangered vulture shows signs of reproductive resilience in Nepal

A new study published in the Journal of Raptor Research found that two colonies of white-rumped vultures in Nepal demonstrated stable reproductive rates over an 11-year period. The number of occupied nests and productivity appeared to be stable, indicating a potential turning point for the critically endangered species.

SourceRaptor Research Foundation·JournalJournal of Raptor Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2023

Study compares youth detained for sex trafficking with more serious offenders

A new study from Florida Atlantic University compares the characteristics and risk factors of youth detained for running away or sex trafficking to those detained for more serious offenses. The research found significant differences in abuse rates, polyvictimization, and other factors between the two groups.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAmerican Journal of Criminal Justice·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 8, 2023

New guidance on safe injection practice in hospitals emphasises the importance of prefilled and labelled syringes in avoiding medication errors

The AAGBI has published new guidance on safe injection practice, highlighting the importance of prefilled and labelled syringes to avoid medication errors. The guidance recommends standardization of fit-for-purpose physical structure and medicine storage, as well as exploring technological solutions to reduce errors.

SourceAAGBI·JournalAnaesthesia·DateAug 8, 2023

DNA breaking process revealed

A team of scientists studied the impact of radiation on DNA, revealing that damaged areas are separated by a critical distance before breaking. The study found an exponential increase in DNA breakage time with distance, providing crucial information for effective DNA repair processes.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalBiophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023

AIBS receives NSF Award to convene discussions on building an integrated, open, FAIR data network

The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) has been awarded a workshop grant to develop a series of discussions on enabling interdisciplinary and collaborative science through the integration of biological and environmental data. The project aims to build an Integrated, Open, Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable ...

Co-infection by novel species of parasite is confirmed in visceral leishmaniasis patient

A child patient was co-infected with Leishmania infantum and an unnamed Crithidia parasite species, revealing a rare case of non-ulcerated cutaneous leishmaniasis. Genome sequencing confirmed the presence of both parasites, sparking new research questions on disease transmission and host susceptibility.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 8, 2023

Bird baths in unlikely places: How cattle stock tanks could contribute to the survival of raptors in the southwest

A study reveals that cattle stock tanks can provide crucial water sources for raptors in the Southwestern US, helping them cope with heat stress. The research found that these tanks are used by various raptor species, including barn owls and Swainson's hawks, to drink and bathe.

SourceRaptor Research Foundation·JournalJournal of Raptor Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2023

Opioids, methadone and babies

A new study published in JAMA Network Open shows that methadone use following surgery in infants can increase hospital stay and delay recovery. Babies who required methadone needed to stay in the hospital an average of 21 days longer after surgery, as well as more days on ventilators and IV nutrition.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023

Brain stimulation improves walking in patients with Parkinson’s disease

Researchers from Shinshu University have developed a novel neuromodulation approach that incorporates gait-combined closed-loop transcranial electrical stimulation, demonstrating significant gait improvements in patients with Parkinson's disease. The treatment showed encouraging results after just ten repetitions, improving speed, gait...

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 8, 2023

Remission from HIV-1 infection: discovery of broadly neutralizing antibodies that contribute to virus control

Researchers have identified a family of broadly neutralizing antibodies targeting the HIV-1 envelope protein, which may contribute to long-term remission from infection. These antibodies were found to induce the elimination of infected cells and impose a selective pressure on the virus, paving the way for new therapeutic approaches.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 8, 2023

Antimicrobial resistance poses threat in all 35 countries in the Americas

The study estimates more than two of every five deaths in the Americas were associated with AMR in 2019, accounting for 11.5% of global deaths. The four most fatal infectious syndromes were bacterial respiratory infections, bloodstream infections, and urinary tract infections.

SourceInstitute for Health Metrics and Evaluation·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023

Nitrogen runoff strategies complicated by climate change

New research suggests that rising temperatures may offset the impact of increased precipitation on nitrogen runoff, which could lead to reduced aquatic pollution. The study found that warmer temperatures reduce evaporation, allowing more nitrogen to enter waterways, while also affecting microbial life in soil and sediment.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023

Microalgae vs. mercury

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory discovered that some phytoplankton can degrade methylmercury even without sunlight. This finding enhances the prediction and accuracy of mercury-cycling models, reducing risks to human health and the environment.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Water·DateAug 8, 2023

Poor time management causes poor sleep for college students

Research conducted at the University of Alabama found that more than 65% of college students experience poor sleep quality, largely due to lack of effective time management. A study published in the American Journal of Health Education revealed that prioritizing organization and setting goals significantly impact overall sleep health.

SourceUniversity of Alabama in Tuscaloosa·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Education·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2023

After 15 years, pulsar timing yields evidence of cosmic background gravitational waves

Researchers report evidence of a cosmic background of gravitational waves likely produced by the merger of supermassive black hole binaries. The signal is detected through millisecond pulsar observations and has implications for our understanding of the universe's large-scale structure.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023

Management of acetaminophen poisoning in the US and Canada

The study provides a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and treating acetaminophen poisoning, emphasizing the importance of early detection and aggressive management. Key findings include the need for prompt assessment and treatment with activated charcoal and N-acetylcysteine, as well as the role of monitoring liver function tests.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 8, 2023

Study finds women who consumed sugar sweetened beverage daily had higher risk of developing liver cancer and chronic liver disease

A study published in JAMA found that consuming sugar sweetened beverages daily increased the risk of developing liver cancer and chronic liver disease by 85% and 68%, respectively. Researchers analyzed data from over 98,000 postmenopausal women and found a significant association between sugary drink consumption and liver health outcomes.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023

Overlooked CO2 emissions induced by air pollution control devices in China's coal-fired power plants

Researchers found that the proportion of APCD CO2 emissions in CFPPs surged from 0.12% to 1.19% between 2000 and 2020, with desulfurization devices contributing 80% of APCD CO2 emissions. The study proposed measures to enhance APCD energy efficiency and provide low-carbon electricity to tackle this emerging environmental issue.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2023

Study: Vaccination campaign in Cambodia protects endangered wild cattle from highly contagious potentially fatal skin disease

A vaccination campaign in Cambodia has successfully protected endangered wild cattle from lumpy skin disease (LSD), a highly contagious viral disease. The campaign, launched in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society, has vaccinated over 20,000 domestic cattle and water buffalo to prevent the spread of LSD to wild ruminants.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalFrontiers in Veterinary Science·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023

Health experts urge clinicians to ‘remain vigilant’ about malaria cases in new commentary

The first locally acquired malaria cases in the US in 20 years have been reported, highlighting the need for clinicians to be vigilant about the disease's symptoms. Malaria thrives in warmer climates and can cause serious illness and death if not treated, emphasizing the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 8, 2023

Ammonia as a carbon-free hydrogen carrier for fuel cells: a perspective

Researchers discuss the potential of using ammonia as a hydrogen carrier for on-site power generation via ammonia decomposition. The high hydrogen content (17.6 wt%) and low toxicity make it an attractive alternative to traditional hydrogen storage methods, but challenges such as leakage and toxicity need to be addressed.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 8, 2023

Size matters: genome size dynamics driven by copy number variation in a green alga

The study reveals extensive genome size variation among closely related algal strains, with a more than twofold range of approximately 450-1,100 megabases. Genome-wide copy number variation, rather than duplication or proliferation, drives this dynamics, suggesting rapid changes in genome size through frequent duplications and deletions.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateAug 8, 2023

Well-designed digital health platforms can improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers

Research shows digital health platforms can deliver personalized nutrition services, decrease burden, and medical expenses. Facilitators include clear communication, training, and social interaction, while barriers include cognitive changes, technology difficulties, and privacy concerns.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2023

Creating pollen-free trees to combat hay fever

Researchers identified two genes, CJt020762 and CjTKPR1, necessary for Japanese cedar pollen production. Creating genetically modified trees with non-functional versions of these genes can produce nearly no pollen, making them suitable as timber tree lines to combat hay fever.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateAug 8, 2023

What causes spontaneous eye movements in albinism?

A new study from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience reveals that pendular nystagmus, a spontaneous back-and-forth movement of the eye, is caused by an abnormality in the nucleus of the optic tract. This condition hinders social eye contact and affects vision, with treatment methods often having unpleasant side effects.

SourceNetherlands Institute for Neuroscience - KNAW·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateAug 8, 2023

New technique measures structured light in a single shot

Researchers have developed a new measurement technique that uses the Kramers-Kronig relation to untangle complex helical light patterns from camera intensity measurements. This allows for single-shot retrieval of orbital angular momentum spectrum information, accelerating and simplifying the process compared to conventional on-axis int...

Investors force Black families out of home ownership, new research shows

A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology reveals that investors have significantly impacted the availability of housing in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Investors are most likely to buy up homes in majority-minority neighborhoods, effectively cutting Black families out of home ownership, resulting in over $4 billion lost equity.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2023

“Modern chemistry is rubbish”

Researchers argue that modern chemistry prioritizes novelty over sustainability, neglecting environmental concerns. They advocate for a triple focus on efficiency, safety, and circularity to combat pollution and promote green chemistry. Circular design, life-cycle thinking, and toxicology assessments are key to realising positive impact.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalNature Reviews Chemistry·DateAug 8, 2023

Pipeline program at Keck School of Medicine boosts primary care residency matches and representation

The Keck School of Medicine's Primary Care Program has shown a significant increase in primary care residency matches and representation, particularly among underrepresented groups. The program provides skill-based training, mentorship, and community-focused experiences that prepare students for careers in primary care medicine.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalFamily Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 8, 2023

Physical activity may prevent fatigue in patients with MS

A recent study published in Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders found that higher daily physical activity is associated with lower levels of fatigue in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The study also suggests that maintaining functional capacity through suitable exercise can help reduce fatigue, improving the ...

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders·DateAug 8, 2023

New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis articles showcase promising therapeutic candidates for treating cancer and hearing loss

Researchers developed innovative techniques to treat challenging cancers and manage therapy side effects. Inhibitors targeting PRMT5, a histone-modifying enzyme, alleviated cisplatin-induced hearing loss, while nano-pills delivered combination drugs to liver cancer cells.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 8, 2023