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Science News for December 8, 2023


When is an aurora not an aurora?

Researchers propose that parallel electric fields in the upper atmosphere could produce the colorful emissions of Steve and the picket fence. This unusual process has implications for understanding energy flow between Earth's magnetosphere and ionosphere.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 8, 2023

Research enables high-resolution imaging of moving objects using fourier ptychographic imaging

A research team developed an efficient method to capture high-resolution images of moving objects using Fourier ptychographic imaging technology. By leveraging image registration techniques and advanced algorithms, they successfully reconstructed high-resolution images equivalent to those obtained with large-aperture detection, overcom...

Study reveals Zika’s shape-shifting machinery—and a possible vulnerability

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys have discovered Zika's shape-shifting machinery and identified a potential vulnerability. The virus's NS2B-NS3 enzyme complex performs multiple tasks, including breaking up proteins and dividing RNA into single strands, but a drug that blocks its conformational changes could be effective.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023

Unlocking sustainable solutions: Using machine learning to optimize VFA production in riboflavin-mediated sludge fermentation

Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict and optimize VFA production from riboflavin-mediated sludge fermentation. The study found that XGBoost presented the best prediction performance, with high testing coefficient of determination (R2 of 0.93) and low root mean square error (RMSE of 0.070).

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023

International collaboration uses faculty member’s research on ancient Roman migration, seeks to understand Balkan genomic history

A multidisciplinary team reconstructed the genomic history of the Balkan Peninsula during the first millennium CE, finding an influx of genetically similar individuals who spoke Slavic languages. This study sheds light on the cosmopolitanism of the Roman frontier and the long-term consequences of migrations that accompanied the breakdo...

SourceMississippi State University·JournalCell·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

AI-driven breakthroughs in cells study: SFU-UBC collaboration introduces "MCS-detect" for advancements in super-resolution microscopy

Researchers from SFU and UBC introduce MCS-DETECT, an AI-driven algorithm that detects membrane contact sites in large microscopy volumes without segmentation. This innovation enhances super-resolution microscopy capabilities, contributing to a better understanding of cellular interactions and complex diseases.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateDec 8, 2023

Researchers predict protein placement on AFM substrates

A new method predicts biomolecular structure placement on AFM substrates based on electrostatic interactions, improving understanding of biological processes at the nanoscale. The method provides remarkable agreement with previous experimental results and can be applied for post-experimental analysis.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 8, 2023

New approach developed for electrocatalytic H2O2 production and biomass upgrading

Researchers have synthesized an oxygen-coordinated Fe single atoms and atom clusters catalyst, demonstrating superior electrocatalytic performance toward H2O2 production and biomass upgrading. The catalyst successfully coupled with the electro-Fenton process, leading to high-rate ethylene glycol conversion and formic acid selectivity.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 8, 2023

Coral reefs in peril from record-breaking ocean heat

A recent study by University of Queensland scientist Professor Ove Hoegh-Guldberg warns that record-breaking marine heatwaves will cause catastrophic mass coral bleaching worldwide. The research suggests that current marine heatwaves will likely lead to a global mass coral bleaching event over the next 12-24 months.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

Metamorphic evolution of the East Tethys tectonic domain and its tectonic implications

The study reconstructs the thermal and tectonic evolution of regional metamorphism at convergent continental margins, focusing on the East Tethys tectonic domain. The research reveals three types of regional metamorphism and associated geothermal gradients, shedding light on the tectonic transition from cold subduction to hot rifting.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Earth Sciences·DateDec 8, 2023

Polyethylene waste could be a thing of the past

A team of experts has developed a way to convert polyethylene waste into ethylene and propionic acid through atomically dispersed metal catalysts. This method uses renewable solar energy to produce valuable chemicals with high selectivity, alleviating the need for complex separation processes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023

How immune cells recognize their enemies

Researchers discovered how Vγ9Vδ2 T cells recognize pathogens and cancer cells by their altered cell metabolism. The study found that phosphoantigens bind to special molecules inside the cell, triggering a signal to kill. This finding can improve the clinical use of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in tumor treatment.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023

T cells tackle new 'Pirola' SARS-CoV-2 variant

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology found that most T cells can still target epitopes on the new Pirola variant, suggesting people may be able to mount a response against it. The study's findings provide positive news in the fight against SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the importance of vaccination with updated vaccines.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

New source of stem cells in injury-affected brains of patients

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have identified a new source of stem cells in the brains of patients with brain injuries, which could lead to improved treatments for neurological disorders. The discovery involves specific astrocyte cells that exhibit properties of neural stem cells and can be regulated by a protein called Galectin 3.

New genes can arise from nothing

Researchers discovered a mechanism that creates DNA palindromes and new microRNA genes from noncoding sequences, explaining the origin of small regulatory genes. The study found that this process can create novel genes, potentially affecting human health.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2023

Adapting to hypoxia: Zooplankton influence the efficiency of the biological carbon pump in the Humboldt Current off Peru

A new study reveals that zooplankton species in the Humboldt Current off Peru can attenuate the export of carbon to the deep sea by consuming sinking particles. This challenge the previously prevailing assumption of a uniformly efficient biological carbon pump in oxygen minimum zones.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateDec 8, 2023

County–level variation in preterm birth rates

Substantial geographic disparities in US preterm birth rates were observed, with nearly 1 in 6 counties experiencing increases between 2007 and 2019. These disparities are linked to place-based social disadvantage, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 8, 2023

Major breakthrough for severe asthma treatment

A landmark study found that 92% of patients with severe asthma can safely reduce inhaled steroid dose and more than 60% can stop all use, minimizing side effects like osteoporosis, diabetes, and cataracts. The SHAMAL study used biologic therapy benralizumab to control severe asthma without steroids.

SourceKing's College London·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 8, 2023

Skipping adjuvant radiotherapy may not impact risk of recurrence or progression in patients with low-risk DCIS

A clinical trial found that using MRI and a DCIS gene profile can guide treatment decisions for patients with low-risk ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Patients who received a score lower than 39 were considered low-risk and could safely forego adjuvant radiotherapy, with similar rates of disease recurrence compared to those with high-...

Digital multi-sided platforms transform traditional value chains in business-to-business service sales

A study at the University of Eastern Finland reveals how digital multi-sided platforms are changing the way businesses approach B2B service sales. The research finds that platform owners play a crucial role in orchestrating value networks, enabling them to manage larger networks with fewer staff and use various interaction methods.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalIndustrial Marketing Management·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2023

Biopesticide is harmless to mammals but can wipe out colonies of wasps that benefit plants

A fungus-based biopesticide is less lethal to mammals than synthetic insecticides but can wipe out colonies of wasps that benefit plants by feeding on pests and performing pollination. The study found that infected wasps are not detected by nestmates, potentially threatening the survival of these species.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateDec 8, 2023

BNL: Advisory panel issues field-defining recommendations for U.S. government investments in particle physics research

The Particle Physics Project Prioritization Panel (P5) report recommends budget-conscious investments in high-energy physics research. The US government will support the Large Hadron Collider, Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment, CMB-S4, and IceCube-Gen2 facilities for transformative discoveries related to fundamental physics.

Study on battery recycling shows China is in 1st place

A study by researchers from the University of Münster found that China will be able to meet its demand for primary lithium for electric vehicles through recycling as early as 2059, while Europe and the US will not achieve this until after 2070. Recycling is also expected to ensure China's need for cobalt by 2045 and nickel by 2046.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

University of Toronto researchers discover new lipid nanoparticle that shows muscle-specific mRNA delivery, reduces off-target effects.

Researchers at the University of Toronto have discovered a novel ionizable lipid nanoparticle that enables efficient muscle-focused mRNA delivery while minimizing off-target effects. The study demonstrates potent cellular immune responses and potential as a viable candidate for cancer vaccine development.

SourceUniversity of Toronto - Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023

A fork in the rhod: Janelia researchers unveil comprehensive collection of rhodamine-based fluorescent dyes

The Janelia Fluor dyes have become a staple in biology labs worldwide, and the team has now expanded their spectrum with a new set of far-red shifted dyes that can penetrate deeper into tissue. The researchers developed a novel chemistry to synthesize these dyes, enabling them to create dozens of functional versions relatively quickly.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 8, 2023

Milestones in Europe: First results in using new tools to tackle respiratory syncytial virus

The European Union has approved vaccines for pregnant women and monoclonal antibodies to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among young children. New sequencing tools have also been developed to track the genetic diversity of RSV and inform vaccine effectiveness and treatment strategies.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 8, 2023