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Science News for December 13, 2023


Towards next-generation nanocatalysts to revolutionize active electron transfer

Researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a copolymer-conjugated nanocatalytic system to enhance active electron transfer for increased photoinduced hydrogen generation. The system leverages the advantages of a stimuli-responsive polymer chain to achieve dynamic electron transfer.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateDec 13, 2023

New genetic vulnerability to herbicide found in nearly 50 sweet and field corn lines

A new study reveals a genetic vulnerability to the herbicide tolpyralate in nearly 50 sweet and field corn lines, with sensitivity increased by adjuvants commonly co-applied with HPPD-inhibitors. The source of the sugary enhancer gene is among the most sensitive genotypes, suggesting widespread potential.

New study shows exercise can boost brain health

A new study found that regular physical activity is related to increased size of brain areas important for memory and learning. The study looked at MRI brain scans from 10,125 people and found those who engaged in activities like walking, running, or sports had larger brain volumes in key areas.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Decoding the ‘chassis effect”: host physiology emerges as key predictor

A study found that host physiology, rather than phylogenomic relatedness, is a reliable predictor of genetic circuit performance in Gammaproteobacteria hosts. The researchers discovered the 'chassis effect' by characterizing the performance of a genetic inverter circuit in six different bacterial species.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

3G microbial cell factories: achieving sustainable goals with engineered microorganisms

Recent advancements in biotechnology have led to the development of artificial biological systems that can utilize CO2 as a feedstock, producing valuable chemicals and fuels. These systems, including autotrophic organisms, tandem enzymatic systems, and chemo-bio hybrid systems, offer promising solutions for sustainable energy production.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2023

The solar forest

A new study finds that building solar farms in arid regions can effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more viable solution for addressing the climate crisis. By contrast, natural forests have a limited impact on carbon dioxide absorption due to their low albedo and high energy absorption rates.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateDec 13, 2023

U of M-led study presents a promising alternative to viral vectors for cancer immunotherapy

A U of M-led study introduces an innovative genetic engineering method that avoids cost and safety concerns associated with viral vectors. The method combines CRISPR-Cas9 precision genome editing and a novel DNA integration mechanism, integrating large DNA sequences into human T-cells with high efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

What happens in the brain while daydreaming?

A study in mice suggests that daydreams can shape the brain's future response to what it sees. Researchers found that patterns of activity during a mouse's first few daydreams predicted how the brain would respond to an image later, indicating a potential causal relationship between daydreaming and brain plasticity.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateDec 13, 2023

Nanoprobe with a barcode

Scientists have introduced a new class of protease-activity sensors using gold nanoparticles equipped with peptide DNA, which can detect multiple active proteases in parallel. The method works at room temperature and does not require complicated sample preparation or elaborate instruments.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Infection with stomach bacteria may increase risk of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that Helicobacter pylori infection can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease by 11-24% in people over 50, potentially due to inflammation and damage to the brain. The study analyzed data from over four million people and considered the time interval between infection and increased risk.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Epigenetic changes can cause type 2 diabetes

A new study by Lund University researchers confirms that epigenetic changes can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. The study identified 5584 sites with differing epigenetic changes in individuals with and without the disease, as well as a key gene RHOT1 involved in insulin secretion.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2023

Vikings in Sweden suffered from tooth decay

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that Vikings in Sweden had a high prevalence of tooth decay, with many exhibiting severe caries and other dental pathologies. The findings provide insights into the lives of these ancient Scandinavians and their attempts to treat dental issues.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology examines effects of climate change on allergic conditions

A recent study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology examines the effects of climate change on various allergic conditions, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and seasonal allergies. The research suggests that environmental warming can lead to longer-lasting pollen seasons and increased T2 inflammation.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateDec 13, 2023

Interactive screen use reduces sleep time in kids, researchers find

Researchers found that interactive screen use, such as texting and playing video games, before bed delayed sleep onset by up to 30 minutes, while passive activities had no significant impact. The study suggests that limiting interactive screen time in the hour before bed can help protect teens' sleep and overall health.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 13, 2023

Resource-efficient and climate-friendly with sodium-ion batteries

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that sodium-ion batteries have an equivalent climate impact as lithium-ion batteries without the risk of raw material depletion. They identified potential measures to further reduce climate impact, such as developing environmentally better electrolytes.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Helping more people get to safety in a wildfire

Researchers have developed a new web-based software platform called Wildfire Safe Egress (WISE) that allows emergency planners to design custom-made evacuation plans. The tool uses data on demographics and road networks to simulate wildfire scenarios and calculate safe evacuation probabilities. By analyzing the Camp Fire disaster, rese...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Study: digital leisure reading does little to improve reading comprehension for students

A new meta-analysis of 25 studies found no significant relationship between digital leisure reading and improvement in reading comprehension among students. Print reading habits are still linked to better comprehension, with a six-to-eight times higher ability for students who read in print compared to digital devices.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalReview of Educational Research·DateDec 13, 2023

Study overturns conventional wisdom about wild turkey nesting survival

A new study has overturned conventional wisdom on wild turkey nesting survival, revealing that precipitation levels during nesting season are not related to reproductive success. The researchers found that temperatures above historical averages were associated with higher rates of daily nest survival during incubation.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

New study sheds light on how the brain learns to seek reward

A recent study published in Nature reveals the complex process of credit assignment in the brain, where dopamine plays a crucial role in linking specific actions to rewards. The research shows that the brain's reward system rapidly alters behaviors through trial and error, fine-tuning actions to improve sequences.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

A study from China reported a high prevalence of high myopia and pathological myopia but a lack of awareness in this patient population. Increased patient education about the disease needs to be emphasized

A study from China found a high prevalence of high and pathological myopia, yet inadequate patient education. The research highlights the need to improve awareness about these eye diseases to reduce adverse outcomes.

SourceSichuan International Medical Exchange and Promotion Association·JournalMedComm – Future Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateDec 13, 2023

The pedigree of brain cells

Researchers have mapped the lineage of neural stem cells in the superior colliculus, revealing an exceptional capacity to generate different types of neurons. The study also found that neural stem cells retain their ability to produce any type of neuron until the end of development.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Don't say vegan: Americans more likely to choose vegan food if labeled ‘healthy’ and ‘sustainable’

A new USC study suggests that changing labels of vegan food to focus on health and environmental benefits may encourage people to eat less red meat and dairy. By labeling the basket as "healthy" and/or "sustainable," Americans are more likely to choose it, with an increase in sales, according to the research.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Study explores accuracy of computerized ADHD test

A new study has found that the QbTest, a widely used computerized test for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is not accurate enough to be used as a standalone diagnostic tool. The researchers emphasize that the QbTest should be used in conjunction with clinical assessment and judgment to arrive at a diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateDec 13, 2023

A sugar analysis could reveal different types of cancer

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a way to distinguish different types of structural changes in glycan molecules linked to various cancers. The AI-enhanced method uses mass spectrometry to identify patterns in data sets, providing a precise answer to what will change for a specific disease.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Discovery of magnetic liquid crystal

Researchers have directly observed a magnetic analog of liquid crystal, known as the 'spin-nematic phase', in a quantum spin system. This discovery was made possible by advancements in synchrotron facility development and has significant implications for quantum computing and information technologies.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

How forests smell – a risk for the climate?

A new study by researchers at Leipzig University and TROPOS found that biodiversity influences the emission of plant odours, which form aerosols in the atmosphere. The team measured BVOCs and BSOA compounds in plots with different tree species and found that species-rich forests emit less of these gases than monocultures.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

UNC researchers reveal prevalence of persistent symptoms in patients with microscopic colitis

A new study finds that 10% of patients with microscopic colitis are unaware of their diagnosis, while 15% of those without the condition were unsure or thought they had it. Despite this, many cases remain symptomatic and undertreated, emphasizing the importance of follow-up appointments and education.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalGastro Hep Advances·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

The Lancet Psychiatry: Mental health care and research must directly confront systemic racism to improve the health and lives of Black Americans

Research highlights the role of racism in producing mental health disparities among Black Americans, calling for community-driven action to reduce inequitable care. The study's findings emphasize the need to address systemic racism as a root cause of poor mental health outcomes.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2023

Advancing clinical trial accessibility: A novel software breakthrough in enrollment efficiency

A joint study by Medical University of South Carolina and Clemson University found that teleconsent, a remote consenting method, is the preferred approach for clinical trial participation. This method eliminates travel costs and improves real-time communication between researchers and participants, increasing trust and understanding.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalApplied Ergonomics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Deep-reinforcement-learning-based robot motion strategies for grabbing objects from human hands

A new robot grasping algorithm based on deep reinforcement learning (RGRL) is proposed to safely grasp objects from users' hands. The algorithm incorporates domain randomization and a multi-objective reward function, eliminating the need for manual labeling of data and reducing computational costs.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateDec 13, 2023

Deaths from heart valve infections drop across U.S. overall, but surged among young adults

A new study found that deaths from infective endocarditis decreased overall in the US, but rose sharply among people ages 25-44, likely linked to the opioid crisis. Researchers call for more investigation into the trends and recommend comprehensive care plans including substance use disorder screening and treatment.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 13, 2023

Saving endangered species: New AI method counts manatee clusters in real time

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University's College of Engineering and Computer Science have developed a new AI method to accurately count manatee aggregations in real-time. The method uses images captured from CCTV cameras and outperforms existing baselines, offering potential ways to aid endangered species.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2023

New tool helps gauge trust in government

A new tool from University of Waterloo researchers measures citizens' trust in government and can inform the design and communication of public health initiatives. The tool was validated by surveying participants from diverse communities, finding that low trust in government is linked to conspiracy theories and vaccine hesitancy.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 13, 2023

Poor diet quality during adolescence is linked to serious health risks

Research from the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that poor diet quality among adolescents is associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, including obesity and related diseases. The study suggests that promoting nutrition knowledge is necessary to prevent these health risks.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Beef farming that keeps cattle on lifelong grass diets may have higher carbon footprint

A recent study found that beef operations with lifelong grass-based diets may produce a 42% higher carbon footprint when considering soil carbon sequestration and carbon opportunity costs. This is in contrast to grain-finished operations, which have been previously shown to have a lower environmental impact. The study's findings emphas...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

A spinal muscle’s size and shape is linked to body fat, according to new Concordia research

A new study by Concordia researchers found a strong positive relationship between percentage body fat and echo intensity, indicating more fat within the muscle. The study also revealed differences in lumbar multifidus characteristics between male and female athletes, with females having larger LMs than males.

SourceConcordia University·JournalFrontiers in Musculoskeletal Disorders·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

‘A ticking clock’: First ground-based survey of damage to Ukrainian cultural sites reveals severity, need for urgency

Researchers from the University of Notre Dame document extensive damage to Ukraine's cultural heritage sites, including churches, schools, and archaeological sites. The team found widespread devastation caused by missile strikes and underground trench systems, with many historical buildings and monuments affected.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAntiquity·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

National cardiogenic shock initiative study results show significant increase in heart attack survival

The National Cardiogenic Shock Initiative study demonstrates a 71% survival rate for patients treated with the new protocol, which involves rapid initiation of mechanical circulatory support and right heart catheterization. This significant improvement in survival rates is expected to save thousands of lives each year.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023

Understanding the risk of cell therapy for heart repair

A recent study found that human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes interact negatively with myofibroblasts, leading to electrical instability and arrhythmogenic potential. Blocking Interleukin-6 signalling reduced these negative effects, suggesting a promising therapeutic strategy for safe regenerative treatments.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCellular and Molecular Life Sciences·DateDec 13, 2023

Making probiotics more widely applicable through ‘CRISPR’ engineering

Recent progress in CRISPR-Cas editing enables tailored probiotic organisms to promote gut health, support immune systems, and enhance metabolism. Genetically modified probiotics have shown potential in preventing or mitigating diseases, such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria and inflammatory bowel disease.

SourceNanjing Agricultural University The Academy of Science·JournalBioDesign Research·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 13, 2023

A new imaging method for biological samples, developed in collaboration between IOCB Prague and the University of Münster, will help scientists and doctors to more quickly identify, for example, cancerous tissue

A new algorithm, SIMSEF, significantly speeds up and simplifies the identification of chemicals in tissues, enabling researchers to confidently recognize and visualize their distribution in organs. This development has great implications for medical diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Scientists unveil first complete cellular map of adult mouse brain

Researchers unveiled an atlas cataloging the location and type of every cell in the adult mouse brain, revealing a complex relationship between genetic identity and spatial position. The map, which charts over 5,300 cell types, provides a detailed 'parts list' for the brain and could pave the way for precision treatments for diseases.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Mpox (monkeypox) vaccine triggers equally strong immune response in smaller than usual doses and in people with or without HIV

A new study found that a smaller dose of the mpox vaccine, administered in two doses spread out over weeks to months, produced a detectable immune response similar to the full FDA-approved dose. This was true for people with or without HIV, and those previously vaccinated against smallpox also had a stronger immune response.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Senior physicians may care for fewer patients with Medicaid and from racial/ethnic minorities than junior physicians

A new study found that senior physicians in cognitive and procedural specialties see fewer Medicaid patients and those from racial/ethnic minorities compared to junior physicians. This raises concerns about a two-tiered healthcare system and disparities in patient access.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateDec 13, 2023

Workplace gossip can benefit employees and employers

A new study from Binghamton University School of Management found that positive workplace gossip can reduce employee turnover and improve an organization's effectiveness. Employees who engage in positive gossip with coworkers may experience social gains, including reduced negative feelings towards their workplace.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalGroup & Organization Management·DateDec 13, 2023

Trees are in trouble

A new study reveals that trees growing in wetter regions are more sensitive to drought, with up to 50% of species' ranges expected to become drier by 2100. Climate change models predict these areas will experience rapid drying, exposing trees to conditions beyond their adaptive capacity.

Was the earthquake induced or natural? New study tests frameworks to answer the question

A panel of experts concluded that the November 2022 Peace River earthquake sequence in Alberta, Canada was likely induced by human activity. The study used questionnaires created to distinguish natural from induced earthquakes, and gathered data on fluid injection information and past regional seismicity.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2023