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Science News for January 26, 2023


What you do in your garden to help pollinators works

A Lund University study evaluates 'Operation: Save the Bees' campaign, finding that creating meadows with diverse flowering species and planting older flowers improves pollinator numbers. The researchers also highlight the importance of investing in effective measures to support urban biodiversity.

SourceLund University·JournalFrontiers in Sustainable Cities·DateJan 26, 2023

Blood sugar monitoring devices pose wearability and use problems for older adults with diabetes and caregivers

Researchers found that continuous glucose monitors and wearable devices pose challenges for patients and caregivers, including issues with hardware, software, and device use. Nearly three-quarters of participants experienced low blood sugar levels, highlighting the need for improved technology to manage diabetes effectively.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalApplied Clinical Informatics·DateJan 26, 2023

EU consumers ‘export’ environment damage to Eastern neighbours

A new study reveals that EU consumers are 'exporting' negative environmental impacts to their Eastern European neighbours while keeping economic benefits within the EU. The bulk of environmental pressures and impacts associated with EU consumption are felt in countries outside the bloc, with uneven distribution of costs and benefits wi...

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Study finds most U.S. children use potentially toxic makeup products, often during play

A recent study found that most US children use makeup and body products containing carcinogens and toxic chemicals like lead, asbestos, and PFAS. The survey of over 200 parents revealed that 79% of children under 12 use these products, with many reporting unintentional ingestion or prolonged exposure.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJan 26, 2023

Heavy smokers with severe periodontitis receive no benefit from treatment

A new study published in the Journal of Dental Research has found that heavy smokers with severe periodontitis do not receive any benefits from treatment. The study suggests that smoking cessation is crucial for effective treatment and may even worsen the disease during active treatment. The findings highlight the need to rethink pract...

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Dental Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023

Waseda University researchers measure boron flux in high-energy cosmic rays with the CALorimetric Electron Telescope (CALET)

Researchers from Waseda University measured the energy spectrum of boron and the B/C flux ratio in high-energy cosmic rays using the CALorimetric Electron Telescope. The results indicate a different spectral index for boron compared to carbon, with implications for our understanding of cosmic ray propagation mechanisms.

SourceWaseda University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023

New zinc finger model shows promise for gene therapy

Researchers developed a novel technology to engineer proteins targeting specific DNA sequences, offering a new approach to gene therapies. The system generates engineered zinc fingers that bind to any given sequence of DNA, potentially treating diseases caused by genetic mutations.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Red algae-derived metal-polysaccharide shows promise for anti-microbial applications because of its long and dense spikes

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev discovered a new compound derived from marine red microalga that exhibits effective antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungus. The compound's unique structure, featuring long and dense spikes, allows it to poke holes in bacterial membranes and kill off infections.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalMarine Drugs·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Alien plant species are spreading rapidly in mountainous areas

A new study reveals that alien plant species are expanding their range to higher elevations at an accelerated rate, affecting mountain ecosystems globally. The number of invasive species has increased by 16% worldwide over the past decade, with neophytes colonizing niches that match their climatic preferences.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 26, 2023

Quantum sensors see Weyl photocurrents flow

A team of researchers led by Boston College Assistant Professor Brian Zhou developed a new quantum sensor technique to image and understand the origin of photocurrent flow in Weyl semimetals. They found that the electrical current flows in a four-fold vortex pattern around where light is shined on the material.

SourceBoston College·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

UK newspapers generally report on meat substitutes positively—but high processing of some meat and dairy alternatives, high environmental footprint of protein crops, and big business involvement are portrayed as the biggest concerns

Plant-based protein products are generally reported positively in UK newspapers, but issues such as high processing levels and environmental footprints of protein crops dominate the narrative. The study suggests that big business involvement is also a significant concern.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Sustainability and Transformation·DateJan 26, 2023

This new fabric coating could drastically reduce microplastic pollution from washing clothes

Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a two-layer coating made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) brushes that significantly reduces microfibre shedding from synthetic fabrics. The coating, which can reduce pollution by more than 90%, is environmentally friendly and has been shown to work on various surfaces including gla...

Loyalty card data could help to identify ovarian cancer symptoms sooner

A study suggests that loyalty card data on over-the-counter medicine purchases could help spot ovarian cancer cases earlier. Women with ovarian cancer were found to buy more pain and indigestion medications before diagnosis, often up to 8 months prior. This could lead to improved survival rates if symptoms are picked up earlier.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJMIR Public Health and Surveillance·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023

Qubits on strong stimulants

A team of scientists has discovered a way to preserve quantum coherence in quantum dot spin qubits by exploiting the properties of a material with the same lattice parameter. This breakthrough improves storage time beyond hundred microseconds, paving the way for practical quantum networks and computing applications.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 26, 2023

Researchers achieve the first observation of de Broglie-Mackinnon wave packets by exploiting loophole in 1980’s-era laser physics theorem

University of Central Florida researchers observed de Broglie-Mackinnon wave packets, a long-standing theoretical concept, by exploiting a loophole in 1980's-era laser physics theorem. The team's use of space-time wave packets, which resist stretching in dispersive media, verifies predicted properties and opens the path to studying top...

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Research explains strength of earthquake shaking in Nenana Basin

The study found that seismometers overlying the basin's deepest areas recorded stronger low-frequency amplification, while monitors at shallow edges recorded minimal amplification. Higher frequency amplification was detected in both deeper and shallower areas. This phenomenon is making the ground motion last longer and feel stronger.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

Local water infrastructure development across rural America demonstrates ethnically, racially uneven economic outcomes

A study analyzing local government spending on water infrastructure between 1980-2015 found associations with decreased poverty, increased per capita income, and unemployment. However, communities with higher Latino or Indigenous populations showed no significant effects, while Black American counties experienced stronger correlations.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Water·DateJan 26, 2023

Astral alchemy

Scientists successfully synthesized the elusive Λ(1405) particle and measured its complex mass, revealing a temporary bound state of a K- meson and proton. The findings may provide insights into the interior of ultra-dense neutron stars and the early formation of the Universe.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysics Letters B·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Amazon heat drives Tibet temperatures: climate tipping elements connected half around the globe

Scientists have discovered a connection between Amazon rainforest temperature changes and Tibetan Plateau climate patterns, highlighting the global impact of Earth system tipping elements. The study found a pronounced propagation pathway from South America to Tibet via Southern Africa and the Middle East.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2023

New study is first to reveal that Indigenous communities with strong rights to their territories can resist land grabs and better protect and reforest their lands in Brazil’s fragmented Atlantic Forest (Revision)

A new study found that Indigenous communities with formal tenure rights in Brazil's Atlantic Forest reduced deforestation and improved forest cover, outperforming territories without such rights. Strengthening self-determination rights of Indigenous peoples has been shown to be crucial for forest conservation efforts globally.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

Disparities in kidney transplant access can be reduced through a multilevel quality improvement effort

A study found that standardizing evaluation processes and expanding telehealth use can significantly improve access to kidney transplants for African Americans. The interventions also led to increased organ acceptance rates, but post-transplant survival outcomes were not statistically significant.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJan 26, 2023

Personalized brain modeling technique may lead to breakthroughs in clinical epilepsy trial

A personalized brain modeling approach is being tested in a large-scale clinical trial for drug-resistant epilepsy, aiming to improve surgery preparation and patient specificity. The technique uses virtual models of patients' brains to simulate abnormal activity during seizures, helping clinicians identify target areas more effectively.

SourceHuman Brain Project·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 26, 2023

New study suggests a promising therapeutic target for sepsis

A new study published in The American Journal of Pathology suggests that promoting autophagy with rapamycin restores intestinal barrier function during sepsis. The study also identifies the PLK1-mTOR axis as a crucial regulator of autophagy and intestinal barrier dysfunction, providing novel insights for treatment of sepsis.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Artificial intelligence for soil health

Researchers are using AI to assess soil datasets and measurements, aiming to build an automated data-driven decision support system for European soils. The goal is to create an effective soil health certification system that can be used by farmers, landowners, and policy makers.

Study shows prevalence of long COVID in a university community

A study published in Emerging Infectious Diseases suggests that long COVID affects up to 36% of university community members who tested positive for COVID-19. The research identifies potential risk factors, including vaccination status and underlying medical conditions, which can reduce the risk of developing long COVID.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023

UK substantially underestimates its methane emissions from oil and gas production – and many other countries probably do too

A recent study reveals that the UK severely underestimates its greenhouse gas emissions from offshore oil and gas production by as much as five times. The researchers suggest alternative methods for calculating methane emissions, which could also apply to other countries.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJan 26, 2023

BepiColombo and Solar Orbiter compare notes at Venus

The BepiColombo and Solar Orbiter missions provided a unique insight into Venus' atmosphere retention through their gravity-assist flyby. The study revealed that the induced magnetosphere protects the atmosphere from solar wind erosion, extending to an unexpected distance of 1,900 km above the planet's surface.

SourceEuroplanet·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023

Hairdressers of color exposed to ‘concerning’ mix of unknown chemicals

A new study found that Black and Hispanic hairdressers are exposed to a complex mixture of unknown chemicals, many potentially hazardous, and undisclosed on product labels. Researchers used advanced screening techniques to identify these chemicals and found higher levels in hairstylists compared to women working in office jobs.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateJan 26, 2023

New technology may help inform brain stimulation

Researchers at the Queensland Brain Institute developed a new ultrafast fMRI technique to study brain activity. The technique revealed that brain activity follows preferential circuits depending on cell type organisation, and blood signals can reflect network organisation and cell type distribution.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

RaiBo - a versatile robo-dog runs through the sandy beach at 3 meters/sec

Researchers at KAIST developed a quadrupedal robot control technology that enables robots to walk robustly on deformable terrain like sandy beaches. The technology uses artificial neural networks to simulate ground characteristics and adapt to changing environments, allowing the robot to maintain balance and perform high-speed walking.

Poor literacy linked to worse mental health worldwide, study shows

A new study by the University of East Anglia finds a significant association between low literacy and poor mental health outcomes across multiple countries. People with lower literacy skills are more likely to experience anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of addressing literacy as part of mental health services.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalMental Health and Social Inclusion·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 26, 2023

Researchers unveil new collection of human brain atlases that chart postnatal development

Researchers created monthly infant brain atlases to track normative trends in brain development. The atlases reveal changes in brain structure, cortical geometry, and tissue contrast, shedding light on conditions like ADHD and dyslexia. The study aims to facilitate discovery of new insights into child cognition and social behavior.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Methods·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

E-cigarettes potentially harmful: PET imaging shows greater lung inflammation in e-cigarette users than cigarette smokers

A new study published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that e-cigarette users have greater lung inflammation than cigarette smokers and non-smokers. The study used PET imaging to compare lung inflammation between e-cigarette users and cigarette smokers, revealing a unique inflammatory response in the lungs.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJan 26, 2023

New detector could enable high-speed quantum communication

Researchers have developed a new detector that can precisely measure single photons at very high rates, enabling practical high-speed quantum communication. The PEACOQ detector is made of superconducting nanowires and operates at extremely cold temperatures, allowing for precise measurement of photon arrival times.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJan 26, 2023

New AI tool makes speedy gene-editing possible

Researchers at NYU Langone Health and the University of Toronto have developed a new AI tool called ZFDesign, which enables customizable protein editing for treating genetic diseases. The tool promises to accelerate gene therapy development on a large scale, offering a potentially safer alternative to CRISPR.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 26, 2023

Cancer-selective supramolecular chemotherapy by disassembly-assembly approach

Researchers developed a cancer-selective therapeutic agent that targets cancer cells' unique acidic pH microenvironment, inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and killing only cancer cells. The agent, Mito-SA, forms charge-shielded nano-assemblies that selectively disassemble in the tumoral environment.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 26, 2023

Immunotherapy combined with targeted therapy for colorectal cancer yields promising outcomes for patients

A phase 2 clinical trial combining immunotherapy and targeted therapy showed a 24.3% confirmed response rate and 5-month median progression-free survival among patients with BRAF V600 mutations. The treatment also demonstrated increased durability, with 57% of patients remaining on treatment for more than 6 months.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Solar System formed from “poorly mixed cake batter,” isotope research shows

Researchers have discovered that primitive meteorites contain a different mix of potassium isotopes than those found in other, more-chemically processed meteorites. This suggests that the Solar System was formed from a 'poorly mixed cake batter' of materials, with some planets receiving a unique blend of elements from distant sources.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Milk’s packaging influences its flavor

A new study in the Journal of Dairy Science confirms that milk packaging affects taste, with paperboard cartons and plastic bags imparting off-flavors and compounds to milk. Glass containers remain an ideal choice for preserving freshness, while plastic containers provide additional benefits.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Sugary drinks tax may have prevented over 5,000 cases of obesity a year in year six girls alone

A study by University of Cambridge researchers found that the UK's soft drinks industry levy may have prevented 5,000 cases of obesity per year in year six girls due to an 8% relative reduction in obesity levels. However, there was no significant association between the levy and obesity levels in year six boys or younger children.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

Modern arms technologies help autocratic rulers stay in power

A large study reveals that access to modern military technology substantially reduces the probability of democratisation of authoritarian regimes. The spread of ground-breaking 29 military technologies in all independent states from 1820-2010 confirms connections between state's access to specific weapons, economy, and form of government.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 26, 2023

Events serve as “stepping stones” en route to retrieved memories

A recent study published in Psychological Science suggests that people use event boundaries as 'stepping stones' to scan their memories when recalling specific facts or information. By analyzing participants' responses to questions about film events, researchers found that individuals can scan an entire event in just 1 second and skip ...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

New species of microalgae discovered

Scientists have identified a new species of microalgae, Medakamo hakoo, which has the smallest known genome of any freshwater algae. The discovery could lead to the mass production of substances such as functional foods, cosmetics, and biofuels at low cost.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Rapid plant evolution can alter predictions of coastal marshland resilience

Research reveals that evolutionary processes play a larger role in regulating ecosystem function, particularly in coastal marshes. Dominant plants' rapid growth and low decomposition rates allow them to store large amounts of carbon, but neglecting trait variation and evolution in models can mischaracterize ecosystem resilience.

Hope for patients with a severe rare disease

A team of scientists from ETH Zurich has developed a new diagnostic strategy for methylmalonic aciduria (MMA), a rare metabolic disorder affecting approximately one in 90,000 newborns. The approach, which considers genetic, RNA, protein, and metabolomics data, correctly diagnosed 84% of patients examined.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Small-scale octopus fisheries can provide sustainable source of vital nutrients for tropical coastal communities

Small-scale octopus fisheries offer a sustainable source of food and income to communities facing food insecurity, providing essential micronutrients like vitamin B12, copper, iron, and selenium. This approach can facilitate sustainable production and catch methods that are less environmentally harmful than industrial fishing.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Food·DateJan 26, 2023

Transcendental Meditation effective in reducing burnout and depression symptoms in physicians

A randomized controlled study found significant reductions in both burnout and depression symptoms among academic physicians who practiced Transcendental Meditation. The technique produced large effect sizes in decreasing burnout and depression symptoms, with improvements also observed in emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishmen...

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalJournal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 26, 2023

UCLA researchers identify possible approach to prevent cancer from evolving to resist treatment

A new study by UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center identifies the DNA roots of resistance to targeted cancer therapy. The researchers found that a protein called DNA-PK plays a crucial role in the process of chromothripsis, which can lead to gene amplification and therapy resistance.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2023

Electrons in the fast lane

Researchers at the University of Rostock develop a new technology to eject electrons from metals using extreme short laser flashes. They generate the shortest electron burst to date, allowing for precise control over electron streaming time.

SourceUniversity of Rostock·JournalNature·DateJan 26, 2023

Reviews explore the drivers and impacts of Amazon deforestation and degradation

Researchers summarize key findings from two Reviews on Amazon deforestation and degradation. Human activities are changing ecosystems at unprecedented rates, threatening the planet's carbon and water cycles. Transformative policies are required to address these impacts and reduce economic demands driving deforestation.

More thankful, less stressed?

Researchers found that state gratitude predicts lower systolic blood pressure responses throughout the stress-testing period, indicating a unique stress-buffering effect. Affect balance amplifies the effects of state gratitude, suggesting its clinical utility in improving cardiovascular health.

SourceBIAL Foundation·JournalInternational Journal of Psychophysiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 26, 2023