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Science News for January 30, 2023


Researchers create first supermode optical resonator

The new optical resonator developed by Capasso's team provides precise control over the mode of light and enables multi-mode coupled light to exist within the resonator. This breakthrough could influence how resonators are understood and open doors for new capabilities, including fundamental physics experiments and manipulation of mate...

Breaking the temperature barrier of hydrothermal carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass

Researchers from Tsinghua University develop a new strategy to decouple temperature and pressure in hydrothermal carbonization, breaking the temperature limit. This process produces high-quality carbon microspheres with abundant oxygen-containing functional groups and good thermal stability, suitable for various applications including ...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Tweezers untangle chemotherapeutic’s impact on DNA

Etoposide's impact on DNA structure has been untangled by Cornell researchers using optical tweezers and magnetic tweezers. The study found that etoposide promotes DNA loop trapping and barrier formation by topoisomerase II, enabling the creation of sensitive screening tools for improving patient treatment.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 30, 2023

People with arthritis 20% less likely to be in work

A new study published by the University of Leeds reveals that people with arthritis are 20% less likely to be in work compared to their peers without the condition. The most striking finding is that non-university educated women aged 60-plus are at least 37% less likely to be in work if they have arthritis.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalSocial Science & Medicine Part C Medical Economics·DateJan 30, 2023

“Spleen-on-a-chip” yields insight into sickle cell disease

Researchers developed a microfluidic device to model the spleen's filtration function in patients with sickle cell disease. The study found that low oxygen levels can cause the spleen's filters to become clogged, while boosting oxygen levels can unclog them, potentially explaining how blood transfusions help patients.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2023

$1 smart glove could help prevent dangerous births by sensing fetal position

A new study reveals a low-cost sensing glove that can identify fetal position and measure force applied to the fetal skull during labor, potentially improving birth outcomes in low-resource regions. The technology provides real-time data during vaginal exams, allowing clinicians to take corrective action early on.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Global Women s Health·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Identified mechanism involved in development and intensification of cancer treatment-related pain

A study found that immune checkpoint inhibitors enhance chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain by blocking interaction between macrophages and neurons via PD1-PDL1 synergy. This discovery could lead to the development of therapeutic alternatives to prevent pain while maintaining anti-neoplastic effects.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCancer Immunology Research·DateJan 30, 2023

Breakthrough in mitochondrial regulation

Researchers from Osaka University have identified a system known as the GET pathway as crucial for regulating the numbers of energy-producing mitochondria. The study found that disruption of the GET pathway leads to reduced mitophagy, a process responsible for removing defective or excess mitochondria.

SourceOsaka University·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

New study finds depression, poor mental health linked to higher heart disease risks among young adults

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that young adults with depression are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease and have poor heart health. The study analyzed data from over half a million people between the ages of 18 and 49 and found that those who self-reported feeling depressed or having poor mental heal...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJan 30, 2023

SUTD researchers develop a novel reconfigurable device that can bridge the gap between processor and memory

Researchers at SUTD developed a new reconfigurable shift register-in-memory architecture using phase-change alloys, operating efficiently as both a memory component and programmable shift register. The device exhibits impressive performance in preliminary tests, promising applications in high-performance electronic systems.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateJan 30, 2023

Understanding long-term changes in the synapses between the hypothalamus and hippocampus

Researchers from Doshisha University found that the hypothalamus's supramammillary nucleus can induce long-term potentiation in hippocampal dentate gyrus synapses through glutamatergic transmission. This type of synaptic plasticity, known as associative LTP, strengthens connections between neurons and is crucial for learning and memory.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Hidden bacteria presents a substantial risk of antimicrobial resistance in hospital patients

Researchers found that carriers of a specific hidden bacteria have a 14% chance of developing an antibiotic-resistant infection within 30 days of hospitalization. The study highlights the significant risk of infections from multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, particularly in patients undergoing 'dirty' surgery.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 30, 2023

Study: Infants exposed to excessive screen time show differences in brain function beyond eight years of age

A longitudinal study found that excessive screen time in infancy is linked to detrimental outcomes in cognitive functions, which persist after eight years. Brain activity changes were observed in infants who spent more time on screens, indicating brain immaturity and poor self-regulation.

Advanced electronic skin for multiplex healthcare monitoring

Researchers from TIBI have developed an advanced electronic skin patch that provides simultaneous, continuous monitoring of multiple bodily parameters. The new E-skin patch offers enhanced flexibility, thermal cooling abilities, and fluid absorption over conventional substrates while demonstrating excellent biocompatibility and biodegr...

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Tracking down leaks in the blood-brain barrier

Bonn researchers create micropipette-based local perfusion of capillaries to analyze BBB transport at the cellular level, providing insights into epilepsy and drug development. The approach reveals the barrier's integrity remains largely intact, offering a tool for evaluating active ingredients' brain penetration.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 30, 2023

Kory Evans wins NSF CAREER Award

Evans' five-year grant will examine how modularity affects the evolution of complex biological structures and provide a framework for their study. The research could advance our understanding of shape change in other complex structures and have cultural and historical significance.

Stereotyping veterans as heroes may limit their future careers

Research by the American Psychological Association found that stereotyping veterans as heroes can limit their future career prospects. Participants preferred lower-paying, selfless careers over higher-paying jobs, even if they didn't align with the veteran's skills or interests. This bias may funnel veterans into service-oriented caree...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJan 30, 2023

Stanford scientists illuminate barrier to next-generation battery that charges very quickly

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new understanding of how nanoscale defects and mechanical stress cause solid electrolytes to fail. By studying over 60 experiments, they found that ceramics often contain tiny cracks on their surface, which can lead to short circuits during fast charging. The discovery could pave the ...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Relying on customer surveys alone may mask poor service

A new study found that customers from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups rated poorer quality service less negatively than white consumers. This suggests that relying solely on customer surveys to improve service may not be effective in addressing discrimination.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2023

Coffee with milk may have an anti-inflammatory effect

A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that combining proteins and antioxidants in foods like coffee with milk may have an anti-inflammatory effect in humans. The researchers found that immune cells treated with this combination were twice as effective at fighting inflammation as those with only polyphenols.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJan 30, 2023

Chronic pain-induced depression: Underlying mechanism revealed in mice, showing how ketamine acts as antidepressant in chronic pain

Researchers have uncovered the underlying mechanism driving depressive systems in chronic pain, identifying a potential therapeutic target for treatment. Tiam1 protein modulates neural connections, leading to hypersensitivity and depression; ketamine blocks this effect, alleviating symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

New monovalent anion permselective membranes for high-efficient mono-/di-valent anion separation

Researchers developed poly(alkyl-biphenyl pyridinium)-based anion exchange membranes with hydrophobic side chains, achieving high permoselectivity for monovalent ions like chloride and hydroxide. The new membranes show excellent alkali stability and can separate multiple multivalent anions with high selectivity.

SourceInstitute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Honey bee colony loss in the U.S. linked to mites, extreme weather, pesticides

A new study by Penn State researchers found that US honey bee colony loss is primarily related to parasitic mites, extreme weather events, and nearby pesticides. The study integrated multiple large datasets at different spatial and temporal resolutions to assess various potential stressors associated with colony collapse across the US.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 30, 2023

90% reduction in COVID-19 deaths after booster dose: Hong Kong study

A Hong Kong study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal found a 90% reduction in COVID-19 deaths among adults with multimorbidity who received a booster dose of vaccine. The study, which included over 120,000 participants, suggests that booster vaccination can significantly lower mortality rates in vulnerable populations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2023

Validation of the feasibility of in-office mapping of the heart without the need for surgery or CT scans for the diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmia

Researchers validate non-invasive ECGi technique to detect atrial fibrillation, providing detailed information about the electrical activity of the heart. This breakthrough reduces patients' exposure to ionising radiation and costs, making it more universal for clinical practice.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalJournal of Electrocardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 30, 2023

Better models show how infectious diseases spread

A new model has integrated two classic approaches to improve disease spread predictions, accounting for age-specific contact patterns and location-specific data. The model outperformed previous approaches in simulation studies and case studies, providing valuable insights into disease prevention and control.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalStochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment·DateJan 30, 2023

New statement shows PCI without surgery on site is as safe as PCI with surgery on site

A new expert consensus statement proposes a revised PCI treatment algorithm that expands the type of cases that can be performed with no-SOS, considering operator experience and facility preparation. The statement highlights low rates of complications and similar outcomes to PCIs performed at surgical centers.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalJournal of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions·DateJan 30, 2023

A research led from ITEFI-CSIC achieves inhibition of cancer cell migration in vitro after low intensity ultrasound irradiation, allowing a controlled modification of the tumor cells biodynamics without damage

A study led by CSIC demonstrates the efficiency of low-intensity ultrasound therapy in inhibiting cancer cell migration in pancreas cancer models. The researchers successfully controlled tumor cell biodynamics without causing damage.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalFrontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology·DateJan 30, 2023

Proximity to electric vehicle charging stations positively impacts home values

A recent study found that homes near electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) in California see a significant increase in value, with those within 0.4-0.5 km of EVCSs valued up to 5.8% higher. The study also showed reduced air pollution and increased traffic, but no effect on property values within closer proximity.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 30, 2023

New insights on why improvements to Chesapeake Bay remain a challenge

A new study on Chesapeake Bay water quality found that pollution thresholds affect reduction efforts, and larger reductions may be needed to induce complete reversal of eutrophication-induced hypoxia. The research revealed that the system responds only until a certain threshold is crossed, then it takes twice the effort to make a change.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 30, 2023

ICD detection and treatment of arrhythmias not impacted by MRI

A cohort study of over 600 persons with non-MRI-conditional implantable cardioverter defibrillators found that these devices continue to appropriately treat detected tachyarrhythmias after MRI scans. The findings suggest that patients with non-MRI-conditional ICDs can safely undergo MRI exams without compromising device function.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 30, 2023

Warmer climate may drive fungi to be more dangerous to our health

A new study finds that warmer temperatures cause a pathogenic fungus to experience adaptive responses, leading to increased disease-causing potential. The research, led by Asiya Gusa at Duke University, suggests that rising global temperatures may contribute to the evolution of more virulent fungal pathogens.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Novel cancer therapy extends lives of terminally ill dogs

A novel form of chemoimmunotherapy has been proven to be a promising treatment for canine cancer, extending the lives of terminally ill dogs. The therapy uses modified Mesenchymal Stem Cells carrying a potent 'kill-switch' that induces anti-cancer immunity and improves quality of life.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalStem Cell Research & Therapy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 30, 2023

Working from home has benefits, drawbacks for employee wellbeing

Research from Cornell University finds that replacement work-from-home (working during regular hours) boosts psychological well-being and engagement, while extension work-from-home (working outside of regular hours) leads to lower well-being, higher turnover intentions, and conflict between work and family. Women are particularly affec...

SourceCornell University·JournalILR Review·TypeSurvey·DateJan 30, 2023

Sewage overspills result from lack of infrastructure investment, research shows

The study found that the lack of capacity in wastewater treatment works is a fundamental cause behind increased frequency and duration of Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs). This refutes suggestions that blame unpredictable weather for the issue. CSO use has been increasing, with most of it attributed to WWTWs' inadequate capacity.

SourceImperial College London·JournalEnvironmental Science Water Research & Technology·DateJan 30, 2023

Predicting human group sizes with physics

Researchers at Complexity Science Hub developed a model using physics principles to predict group sizes in humans. By analyzing social stress and homophily, they found that group sizes can be predicted with relatively small information, revealing new insights into human behavior.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalPhysical Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 30, 2023

A fairy-like robot flies by the power of wind and light

Researchers at Tampere University have developed a polymer-assembly robot that can fly by the power of wind and be controlled by light. The fairy-like robot has several biomimetic features, including high porosity and lightweight structure, allowing it to float in the air and travel long distances with stability.

SourceTampere University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJan 30, 2023

How to reduce the temptation to cheat

A team of psychologists found that adopting a partner's perspective reduces the likelihood of infidelity and other partnership-destroying behaviors. By putting themselves in their partner's shoes, individuals can increase commitment and desire for their current partner, while decreasing interest in alternative mates.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Tree rings reveal 400 years of rainfall patterns, forecasting an increase in extreme weather conditions in Pakistan and Afghanistan

A study using tree rings reveals a 400-year trend of increasing droughts and floods in the Kabul River Basin, with severe events becoming more frequent. The research suggests that climate change is intensifying hydrological cycles, leading to devastating consequences for natural resources management.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 30, 2023

Powering wearable technology with MXene textile supercapacitor ‘patch’

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a wearable textile supercapacitor patch that can charge in minutes and power programmable electronics for almost two hours using MXene material. The innovative design enables seamless integration of technology into fabric, paving the way for health care technology applications.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2023

New drugs to squash the spread of malaria

Researchers have identified a new class of potent antimalarial compounds that target the parasite's sexual phase, preventing it from infecting mosquitoes and subsequently humans. The compounds inhibit the parasitic protein Pfs16, forming the strongest bond with the drug.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalDisease Models & Mechanisms·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Fishing in synchrony brings mutual benefits for dolphins and people in Brazil, research shows

A study by Oregon State University researchers found that synchronized fishing with dolphins in Brazil increases the number of fish caught and supports both species' survival. The cooperative relationship is specific to this population of dolphins and has been passed down through generations of fishermen.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2023

Ben-Gurion University chemists pioneer responsive polymers that heat up when exposed to LED light

Researchers have created a new type of polymer that can be triggered by light, enabling faster chemical reactions and more efficient energy use. The polymers, which respond to different wavelengths of light, show promise for use in various fields, including pharmaceuticals and future Mars habitats.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Under pressure: Breakthrough new material solves problem of wearable sensors

A team from UMass Amherst developed an all-fabric pressure sensor that works even under pressure, allowing for long-term data gathering on health indicators like bone density and depression. The sensor can be worn in comfortable clothing, providing fine-grained details for remote detection of disease or physiological issues.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateJan 30, 2023

POSTECH-KKU team treats cornea ulcers with diagnostic light instead of corneal transplantation

A Korean joint research team has developed a new tissue adhesive that restores damaged corneas by filling them and exposing them to light, potentially treating cornea ulcers without surgical interventions. The new sealant integrates well with adjacent tissues and promotes scar-free corneal tissue reconstruction.

Unusual painting -- Unusual lead compound

A team of researchers identified a rare lead compound, lead(II) formate, in various areas of Rembrandt's The Night Watch using micro and macro X-ray analysis. This discovery provides clues about the artist's pictorial practices and the reactivity of lead driers in historical paintings.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

New ancient ‘marine crocodile’ discovered on UK’s Jurassic Coast – and it’s one of the oldest specimens of its type ever found

A new study has uncovered a nearly complete specimen of the ancient 'marine crocodile', Turnersuchus hingleyae, from the Early Jurassic period in Dorset, UK. The find provides crucial insights into thalattosuchian evolution and origin, suggesting that these creatures likely emerged around 15 million years earlier than previously thought.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of Vertebrate Paleontology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2023

Tumor microbiome linked to immunotherapy success in sarcoma patients

Researchers found a quantifiable amount of microbiome within soft tissue sarcoma tumors, linked to patient prognosis and immune system interaction. The study's findings suggest that the microbiome plays a role in attracting cancer-fighting cells, such as natural killer cells, which can improve immunotherapy effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·DateJan 30, 2023

Researchers develop a new ocean data quality control system

Researchers from the Institute of Atmospheric Physics have created a new climatological range-based automatic quality control system for ocean temperature profiles. The system, called CODC-QC, uses 14 distinct quality checks to identify outliers and aims to provide a quality-homogenous database.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalDeep Sea Research Part I Oceanographic Research Papers·DateJan 30, 2023

Is brain learning weaker than artificial Intelligence?

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have developed a new type of artificial neural network that outperforms traditional deep learning architectures. By using tree architecture with single routes to output units, they achieve better classification success rates, paving the way for efficient and biologically-inspired AI hardware.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 30, 2023

LJI scientists uncover the structure and function of Inmazeb, the first FDA-approved drug for Ebola virus infection

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered the detailed mechanism of action of Inmazeb, a three-antibody cocktail designed to combat Ebola virus infection. The study reveals new information about how the drug interacts with the virus and its potential effectiveness against additional species of Ebolavirus.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Loss of muscle mass in acute stage of COVID-19 is associated with persistent symptoms, study shows

A study by researchers in Brazil found that loss of muscle mass during COVID-19 hospitalization is associated with the development of persistent symptoms such as weakness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. The study also showed that patients who lost more muscle mass had higher healthcare costs six months after discharge.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateJan 30, 2023