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Science News for December 20, 2023


Emissions and evasions

A new study found that fossil fuel companies rarely respond to online discussions about extreme weather, but instead engage with sustainability initiatives and corporate efforts. Climate misinformation can fuel denialism and delay action, emphasizing the need for understanding how it's designed and spread.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·Journalnpj Climate Action·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

Connection between light levels and mental health – climate change could also have an impact in the future

A study found a clear connection between light levels and mental health in Finland, with more sick days taken due to depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders during autumn and winter. Climate change may worsen these conditions, while brighter summers could alleviate some symptoms of bipolar disorder.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalEpidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

Millions of mysterious pits in the ocean decoded

Researchers at Kiel University discovered that porpoises and sand eels create shallow pits in the North Sea seafloor when hunting for buried sand eels. The findings have significant global implications, suggesting that scouring of sediments by vertebrates could modulate the seafloor on a global scale.

SourceKiel University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2023

$6 million National Science Foundation award to Binghamton will accelerate research translation into broader societal benefits

Binghamton University will receive $6 million from the NSF to translate cutting-edge research into real-world applications and promote regional entrepreneurship. The initiative aims to increase the university's capacity for translational research, providing students with practical training and career development opportunities.

Perspective on management of LDCT findings on low-dose computed tomography examinations for lung cancer screening

The IASLC Early Detection & Screening Committee published a perspective outlining key components of LDCT screening regimens. The report emphasizes the need for data-driven management systems, quality assurance assessments, and multi-disciplinary clinical management to maximize benefits of early detection and treatment.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 20, 2023

Tree plantations can get better with age – but original habitats are best

Research from the University of Surrey found that older tree plantations tend to be more biodiverse than younger ones. However, even the oldest plantations cannot match the natural diversity of original habitats. The study aims to promote responsible tree planting practices that prioritize biodiversity conservation.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

Giving video games this Christmas? New research underlines need to be aware of loot box risks

A new study by the University of Plymouth shows that at-risk individuals are more likely to engage with loot boxes than those without, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement around these features. The research found that loot box use is driven by beliefs such as 'I'll win in a minute', echoing the psychology seen in gambling.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

A system designed at the UMA estimates the speed of vehicles driving on the same road

A computer vision system developed by University of Malaga engineers estimates vehicle speeds in real time using a single camera, reducing complexity and costs. The algorithm, published in Neurocomputing, aims to improve vehicle safety and has potential applications in autonomous driving and driver assistance.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNeurocomputing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2023

Taming a plant-derived toxin

Researchers at Scripps Research have found a way to modify picrotoxinin, a plant-derived toxin, with improved properties, making it easier to synthesize and modify. The modified version, 5Me-picrotoxinin, shows better chemical stability and is safer for humans.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 20, 2023

Sodium channel investigation

A team of scientists at Kanazawa University used high-speed atomic force microscopy to study the structural dynamics of sodium ion channels in cell membranes. They found that voltage sensor domains can dissociate from pore domains when the channel is in a resting state, leading to dimerization between neighboring channels. These findin...

SourceKanazawa University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

New larks revealed in Africa

Researchers at Uppsala University have identified nine distinct evolutionary lines among African lark species, revealing new species diversity. The study proposes splitting two known species into seven, while also confirming convergent evolution and diverging relationships among closely related species.

SourceUppsala University·JournalZoological Journal of the Linnean Society·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2023

AI risks turning organizations into self-serving organisms if humans removed

A new study from the University of Ottawa and Copenhagen Business School finds that removing human bias from organizational processes can lead to autonomous systems that create their own environments. This could limit human ability to recognize automation biases, notice environmental shifts, and take action.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalJournal of the Association for Information Systems·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 20, 2023

Pathways for enhancing sustainability and resilience in India’s critical small dairy operations

A new study in the Journal of Dairy Science analyzes the life cycle of milk production in 47 small farms in Karnataka, India, identifying key emissions hotspots and potential sustainability improvements. The research highlights the importance of high-yielding animals and efficient feeding strategies to reduce carbon footprints.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

Rise of archery in Andes Mountains dated to 5,000 years ago — earlier than previous research

New research reveals archery technology in the Andes dates back 5,000 years, coinciding with social complexity and village growth. The study analyzed over 1,000 projectile points and found a significant decrease in size around 5,000 years ago, suggesting a shift from spear-throwing to bow-and-arrow technology.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalQuaternary International·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Do steroid creams affect bone health?

Researchers found a clear dose-response relationship between long-term topical corticosteroid use and elevated risks of osteoporosis and major osteoporotic fractures. Women under 50 had higher risks compared to men and other age groups, emphasizing the importance of careful treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology·DateDec 20, 2023

Evidence early, but emerging, that gamma rhythm stimulation can treat neurological disorders

A growing number of studies have found that non-invasive sensory, electrical, or magnetic stimulation of gamma brain rhythms can reduce Alzheimer's pathology and its consequences. These studies have shown increases in gamma power, brain network connectivity, and improvements in memory, cognition, and sleep.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 20, 2023

Cosmic lights in the forest

The PRIYA simulation suite provides a new model for simulating large-scale structure in the universe, constraining cosmological parameters and dark matter. The study confirms the σ8 tension between CMB measurements and weak lensing, with implications for understanding the universe's evolution billions of years after the Big Bang.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 20, 2023

TTUHSC researcher studies the ability of brine shrimp to thrive in high salinity

A research team at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center discovered a unique sodium pump variant in brine shrimp that enables them to thrive in high-salinity environments. This NKA variant uses more energy than common variants, allowing the animal to maintain steeper Na+ gradients.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Evaluating the truthfulness of fake news through online searches increases the chances of believing misinformation

A new study by researchers at New York University found that searching online to evaluate the truthfulness of false news articles actually increases the probability of believing misinformation. This phenomenon is concentrated among individuals for whom search engines return lower-quality information.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Association for Molecular Pathology publishes best practice guidance for designing and utilizing slice testing approach for diagnostics

The Association for Molecular Pathology published a report outlining considerations for a slice testing strategy, including gene selection and quality. This approach combines the advantages of high-quality gene panels with flexibility and broad scope of exome sequencing.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateDec 20, 2023

MMRI publishes breakthrough study detailing a novel approach to minimize damage after a heart attack

Researchers at MMRI have developed a novel approach to minimize cardiac damage after a heart attack by targeting the spleen with histone deacetylase inhibitors. This targeting strategy results in a significant decrease in cardiac scar size and preservation of heart function, even after just one dose.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Carnegie Mellon-designed artificially intelligent coscientist automates scientific discovery

The Coscientist AI system has been successfully designed, planned, and executed a chemistry experiment, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize scientific research. By leveraging large language models and cloud lab technology, Coscientist can automate the experimental process, enabling scientists to design and run experiments much...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

One small material, one giant leap for life on Mars: Sussex research takes us a step closer to sustaining human life on the red planet

Researchers at the University of Sussex have discovered transformative nanomaterials with potential for clean energy production and building materials on Mars. Using sustainable production methods, they turned a waste product into nanobelts that could provide clean energy and sustainable electronics.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 20, 2023

And now, your community health forecast…

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a community health report that analyzes the human virome in wastewater, providing valuable insights into emerging diseases. By detecting changes in viral trends in wastewater, scientists can identify outbreaks and transmission patterns, ultimately improving population health.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Advanced viral diagnostics tool closer to widespread use

VirCapSeq-VERT, a next-generation sequencing-based screening and surveillance system, can detect any virus that can potentially infect humans with greater sensitivity and speed than other NGS platforms. The technology achieved clinical sensitivity of 99 percent and 100 percent clinical specificity in a validation study.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Study finds AI language model failed to produce appropriate questions, answers for medical school exam

Researchers found that ChatGPT generated only 32% of acceptable questions with correct answers and explanations. The AI model struggled to provide explanations for incorrect answers, raising concerns about its effectiveness in medical education. Despite limitations, the study suggests that ChatGPT may still be useful for creating pract...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Pathology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 20, 2023

AI alters middle managers work

A study by University of Eastern Finland finds that integrating AI systems into service teams increases demands on middle management, requiring balancing acts and new skills. The study also highlights the need for human managers to focus on innovations and development while AI handles routine tasks.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Service Research·TypeSurvey·DateDec 20, 2023

Mediterranean diet ‘a straightforward approach’ among many nutritional options for improving the chance of success in IVF

A Mediterranean diet has been found to be a straightforward and effective approach for improving IVF success rates, with high intakes of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids. The diet's benefits were seen in both embryo development and pregnancy outcomes, even after just six weeks of implementation.

SourceReproductive BioMedicine Online·JournalReproductive BioMedicine Online·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 20, 2023

Cells of the future: A key to reprogramming cell identities

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered a new relationship between DNA replication timing and cellular plasticity, allowing for the potential reprogramming of cells. The study found that the three-dimensional structure of the genome influences the flexibility of the replication timing program.

Unveiling ancient secrets: 3D preservation of trilobite soft tissues sheds light on convergent evolution of defensive enrollment

A new study has shed light on the convergent evolution of defensive enrollment in arthropods by analyzing 3D-preserved trilobite soft tissues. The fossils, which date back to the Ordovician Period, show that trilobites used a unique mechanism to protect their vulnerable soft tissues with their hard exoskeletons.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateDec 20, 2023

Digital training program improves quality of life for care residents with dementia – even during the COVID-19 pandemic

A digital training program improved the lives of people with dementia in UK care homes, reducing sedative medication and increasing social interactions. The iWHELD programme delivered personalized care and encouraged meaningful connections, even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 20, 2023

Key health department jobs don’t exist, according to the federal government

Several key public health occupations, including disease intervention specialist and program manager, do not have valid SOC matches, creating challenges in researching the workforce. The study's findings highlight the need for standardization to characterize the public health workforce linked to SOC codes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 20, 2023

A trillion scents, one nose

Researchers discover a previously undetected mechanism in mice that explains how each sensory cell in mammalian noses becomes tailored to detect a specific odor chemical. The study reveals the genetic molecule RNA plays a crucial role in this process, with RNA winnowing down receptor genes to a single winner.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

How does the inability to burp affect daily life?

The inability to burp, known as retrograde cricopharyngeus dysfunction (R-CPD), significantly impacts daily life, causing symptoms like abdominal bloating, flatulence, and difficulty vomiting. Participants reported feeling embarrassed, anxious, and depressed due to R-CPD, highlighting the need for increased awareness and identification.

SourceWiley·JournalNeurogastroenterology & Motility·DateDec 20, 2023

Natto consumption suppresses arteriosclerosis

A study revealed that natto consumption significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesions in mouse models, altering intestinal microflora and regulating cytokine production. High vitamin K2 natto showed the most significant effect, decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines while increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10 production.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 20, 2023

Slimming significantly alters your microbiome and brain activity

A study of 25 obese Chinese individuals reveals that intermittent energy restriction (IER) alters the gut microbiome and brain activity, leading to significant weight loss and reductions in obesity-related comorbidities. The changes are coupled over time, suggesting a complex relationship between the gut microbiome and brain.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

The evolutionary timeline of diminished boric acid and urea transportation in aquaporin 10

Researchers analyzed Aqp10s in eight bony vertebrate species to understand the evolutionary timeline of diminished boric acid and urea transportation. The study found that Aqp10.2 in ray-finned fishes restricts urea and boric acid passage, suggesting a loss of solute transport through evolution.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

UMass Amherst researchers develop first high-precision dual-color optoelectronic brain probe

The UMass Amherst team has developed a first-of-its-kind dual-color optoelectronic neural probe, enabling bidirectional control of brain activity in specific cortical layers. This innovation holds promise for advancing our understanding of diseases such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

City living can pose developmental risks

A new study highlights the wide range of urban exposures during early childhood that can influence growth and development, including air and noise pollution, overcrowding, and limited green space. The first 2000 days of life are a critical period for physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalPublic Health Research & Practice·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 20, 2023

Probing for THz radiation directly at the source

A new THz detection method has been developed to measure terahertz radiation directly at the plasma source as it is produced. This method uses nonlinear optics to double the frequency of an optical beam in the presence of a THz wave, providing efficient measurement and characterization of the radiation.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Researchers uncover on/off switch for breast cancer metastasis

A Stanford University study reveals that ENPP1 is produced by both cancer cells and healthy cells around tumors, with high levels linked to immunotherapy resistance and metastases. Researchers found that targeting ENPP1 could improve patient responses to existing medicines and help clinicians better predict patient outcomes

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 20, 2023

Mount Sinai researchers develop novel method to improve disease prediction across diverse ancestries

A team of scientists has developed a statistical technique called BridgePRS to enhance disease prediction in people of non-European ancestry, particularly those of African descent. This advancement aims to reduce health care inequities and enable more personalized medical interventions based on genetic information.