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Science News for January 4, 2023


New spectroscopy technique improves trace element detection in liquid

Researchers have developed a new spectroscopy technique called filament- and plasma-grating-induced breakdown spectroscopy (F-GIBS), which improves the sensitivity of trace metal detection in liquid samples. The technique uses fluid jets to analyze aqueous solutions and achieves high precision by avoiding detrimental influences of liqu...

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJan 4, 2023

Cherry-picking profitable patients: New research identifies unintended consequences for some Medicare patients

A new study in Manufacturing & Service Operations Management finds that Medicare Advantage (MA) programs unintentionally incentivize health plans to cherry-pick profitable patients from traditional Medicare. The researchers propose a modified medical loss ratio mechanism to address this risk selection problem.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing and Service Operations Management·TypeObservational study·DateJan 4, 2023

Climate change could cause “disaster” in the world’s oceans, say UC Irvine scientists

Climate-driven heating of seawater is causing a slowdown of deep circulation patterns in the Atlantic and Southern oceans, which could lead to a complete shutdown by 2300. This would intensify global warming and reduce ocean uptake of carbon dioxide, resulting in declining marine ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 4, 2023

Exercise curbs insulin production

Researchers discovered that physical activity suppresses insulin-producing cells in fruit flies, allowing for efficient energy replenishment. This finding has implications for human health, as reduced insulin activity is linked to healthy ageing and longevity.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Geminivirus satellite-encoded βC1 activates UPR, induces bZIP60 nuclear export, and manipulates the expression of bZIP60 downstream genes to benefit virus infection

Researchers found that geminivirus-encoded βC1 protein activates unfolded protein response (UPR) in host plants, inducing nuclear export of bZIP60 and manipulating downstream genes to promote virus infection. This interaction benefits TYLCCNV/TYLCCNB infection by regulating pro-survival factors.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateJan 4, 2023

Physicists develop a new method that strengthens electron-triggered light emission with flat bands Shedding light to produce new sources of light and build quantum-based computational and communications systems

Researchers at The University of Hong Kong and MIT have developed a new method to produce stronger interactions between photons and electrons, enabling hundredfold increases in light emission. This breakthrough has potential ramifications for commercial applications and fundamental scientific research.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Stem cell model allows researchers to explore the earliest stages of sex determination in mice and humans

A new stem cell model allows researchers to study the earliest stages of sex determination in mice and humans, providing insights into Disorders of Sex Development (DSD). The model enables the creation of a 'mini testis' in a dish, which could lead to better understanding of DSD, infertility, and fertility restoration.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

University of Cincinnati research provides valuable comparison of anticoagulant drugs

A new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine shows that direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) drugs are more effective and cost-effective than low molecular weight heparin for treating cancer-associated thrombosis. The research compared the three DOACs with low molecular weight heparin using a computer model that simulated major...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 4, 2023

Lab-grown retinal eye cells make successful connections, open door for clinical trials to treat blindness

Researchers have successfully grown retinal cells from stem cells that can connect with neighboring cells and transmit sensory information like healthy ones. The breakthrough could lead to human clinical trials to treat degenerative eye disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Primary language of mothers linked to continued breastfeeding during NICU hospitalization

Researchers found a significant association between maternal primary language and breastfeeding continuation among very-low-birthweight infants in Massachusetts. Non-English speaking mothers had lower rates of milk provision, while English-speaking Black mothers had higher rates of breastfeeding continuation.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJan 4, 2023

More links aren’t necessarily better for hybrid nanomaterials

Chemists from Rice University and the University of Texas at Austin found that increasing charge-acceptor molecules on semiconducting nanocrystals can lead to reduced electron transfer rates in hybrid materials. The study highlights the importance of considering ligand-ligand interactions when designing light-activated nanomaterials fo...

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Disaster-related trauma disproportionately affects individuals who are older and less educated—and higher income

A new study found that vulnerable populations are more likely to experience disaster-related home loss and develop physical and mental functional limitations. Older adults, those with lower education levels, and individuals from higher income backgrounds were disproportionately affected.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 4, 2023

When American democracy is weakened, faith in the U.S. as an ally falters

A new study found that foreign interference in American elections can reduce faith abroad in the United States as a trustworthy ally. Japanese citizens' trust in the US was higher when informed that US democracy is functioning versus not. The findings highlight the international security implications of successful electoral interference.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEuropean Journal of International Relations·TypeSurvey·DateJan 4, 2023

A step towards solar fuels out of thin air

Scientists at EPFL have created a device that combines semiconductor-based technology with novel electrodes to harness water from the air and produce hydrogen gas powered by sunlight. The transparent, porous, and conductive electrodes mimic the properties of plant leaves, which convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Study finds providers use prostate cancer screening tests, even when they provide little value to patients

A study by Wake Forest University School of Medicine found that primary care providers frequently order prostate cancer screening tests, even when they provide little value to patients. The research team analyzed data from the National Ambulatory Medicare Care Survey and found a significant increase in low-value screenings, such as PSA...

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateJan 4, 2023

An artificial tissue restores erectile function in pigs

A team of researchers has developed an artificial tissue that repairs injuries and restores normal erectile function in a pig model. The artificial tunica albuginea (ATA) shows promise for repairing penile injuries in humans by mimicking the microstructure of natural tissues.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Multidisciplinary, cross-border collaboration and stable levels of funding extend knowledge of the oceans

Researchers analyzed 300 oceanographic projects funded by FAPESP, revealing a shift from USP to other institutions. FAPESP's support for long-term projects and collaborative research has significantly increased knowledge of Brazilian oceans. Deep-sea research remains a gap to be filled, requiring further collaboration and funding.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiota Neotropica·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 4, 2023

Think before you design your brand's logo: How marketers can capitalize on the power of perception to influence beliefs about brand performance

A new study found that structured visual design properties, such as symmetry and balance, reinforce claims about a brand's utilitarian benefits. In contrast, unstructured designs are associated with hedonic benefits. The research suggests marketers can use perception to influence beliefs about brand performance and consumer choice.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJan 4, 2023

A downward spiral: When subsistence communities struggle, forests do too

Research highlights how subsistence communities' livelihood activities contribute to deforestation and forest degradation due to socioeconomic factors. The study suggests that market-driven solutions adapted to each community's culture and context can help slow or reverse this issue.

Non-invasive photoacoustic computed tomography of rat heart anatomy and function

Researchers developed a non-invasive imaging technique using photoacoustic computed tomography to visualize the rat heart's anatomy and function. The 3D-PACT platform provides high spatial resolution and captures dynamic changes in cardiac structure, chamber size, myocardial wall thickness, and intracardiac flow.

Rolling in benefits: New method for effective compression of plant biomass for alternate fuel and anti-viral applications

Researchers from Okayama University developed a novel mechanical compression method to squeeze maximum benefits from plant biomass. The technique reduces energy consumption by eliminating the need for thermal drying, making it ideal for on-site operation and locally grown plants.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Material Cycles and Waste Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Climate risk insurance can effectively mitigate economic losses

A new study finds that climate risk insurance can effectively mitigate economic losses from US hurricanes under global warming, accelerating economic recovery. However, national insurance mechanisms in developing countries are insufficient to cope with extreme weather events, highlighting the need for international climate finance and ...

The interior design of our cells: Database of 200,000 cell images yields new mathematical framework to understand our cellular building blocks

A team at the Allen Institute for Cell Science developed a new way to quantify the internal organization of human cells, capturing details about cellular shape variation. The study provides a roadmap for biologists to understand cell organization in a measurable and quantitative way.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 4, 2023

A multifaceted sensation

Scientists found that neurons actually fall silent above a certain level, with the most sensitive ones dropping off first. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that neurons plateau in activity above odor concentrations, and suggests a more complex encoding of smells at different levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 4, 2023

Roadkill reality check: Ground squirrel population takes a hit due to increasing tourist traffic

A study by Colorado State University found that over 10% of adult female golden-mantled ground squirrels are killed annually along rural roads in the Gunnison Valley. The researchers suggest reducing personal vehicle numbers and using digital signs to alert drivers, as males are also vulnerable during mating season.

SourceColorado State University·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeObservational study·DateJan 4, 2023

NIH study links specific outdoor air pollutants to asthma attacks in urban children

A recent NIH study found associations between exposure to ozone and fine particulate matter and molecular changes in children's airways during non-viral asthma attacks. The study suggests that reducing air pollution could improve human health, particularly in urban communities with high-risk asthma populations.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateJan 4, 2023

Climate warming reduces organic carbon burial beneath oceans

A new study reveals that climate warming can reduce the burial of organic carbon beneath the ocean, leading to increased atmospheric carbon release. Researchers analyzed over 50 years of seafloor sediment cores, finding a significant decrease in organic carbon burial during certain periods, particularly during the mid-Miocene era.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 4, 2023

Researchers study immune response, proteins in blood of young adults who develop rare complication after COVID vaccination

A study by Mass General Brigham found elevated levels of spike protein, increased cytokines, and troponin in the blood of 16 adolescents and young adults who developed myocarditis after COVID mRNA vaccination. The researchers also discovered no differences in antibody production or auto-antibodies between cases and controls.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalCirculation·TypeObservational study·DateJan 4, 2023

New method helps understand the global organic carbon cycle

Researchers developed a new approach to determine the rate of organic carbon burial in marine sediments, using data from deep-sea drilling sites. This method provides more accurate results than traditional isotope calculations, revealing higher rates of carbon sequestration during warm periods and lower rates during cooling intervals.

‘Jumping genes’ help fungus kill salamanders

A fungus infecting salamanders has evolved to contain multiple copies of jumping genes, which contribute to its increased virulence. The 'copy and paste' mechanism allows the fungus to amplify skin-destruction genes, making it more deadly.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 4, 2023

Chung-Ang University researchers unveil the mechanism of noise and signal detection, enhancing organic photodetector performance for advanced image sensors

Chung-Ang University researchers identify direct electron tunnelling as dominant mechanism of noise in organic photodetectors, enabling enhanced detection speed and improved image sensor performance. The discovery paves the way for miniaturized image sensors with curved designs and omnidirectional sensing capabilities.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023