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Science News for June 12, 2023


Marine environment at risk due to ship emissions

A new study from Chalmers University of Technology reveals that the marine environment is at risk due to ship emissions, particularly from scrubber discharge water and antifouling paint. The cumulative environmental risk in ports was found to be five and thirteen times higher than acceptable limits.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023

U.S. consumers judge morality of armed self-protection on case-by-case basis, OSU research shows

Research from Oregon State University shows that Americans judge the morality of armed self-protection on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like perceived threat and background of the person carrying the gun. The study highlights the complexity of consumer views on gun rights and Second Amendment rights.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeObservational study·DateJun 12, 2023

Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University renewed as a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

Winship Cancer Institute has received renewal of its National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center designation, solidifying its position as Georgia's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. The designation recognizes Winship's strong research programs, robust shared resources, and first-rate scientists.

New study finds connection between long-standing gender and racial gaps in voting for Democrats

A new study by NYU sociologists finds that the persistent gender gap in voting for Democrats can be attributed, in part, to the higher proportion of Black women among female voters. The research suggests that this racial composition explains approximately a quarter of the gender gap in voting Democratic.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Port of entry for coronaviruses

Researchers found that coronaviruses, like SARS-CoV-2, bind to individual monomeric ACE2 receptors on host cells, rather than forming dimers or oligomers. This interaction is sufficient for infection and contributes to the virus's high infectiousness.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

A novel, completely solid, rechargeable air battery

Researchers at Waseda University have developed a novel, completely solid, rechargeable air battery that uses a benzoquinone-based negative electrode and solid Nafion polymer electrolyte. The battery exhibits high performance and close to maximum capacity, overcoming metal-based battery limitations and liquid electrolyte safety concerns.

SourceWaseda University·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Many long COVID patients suffer from persistent inflammation, study finds

A recent study has found that long COVID patients experience a chronic inflammatory response, similar to autoimmune diseases. The researchers identified specific molecular markers associated with this condition, which could help guide clinical trial and treatment decisions. Understanding the underlying inflammation is crucial for devel...

SourceAllen Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Gentle cleansers kill viruses as effectively as harsh soaps, study finds

Researchers at the University of Sheffield found that gentle cleansers can be just as effective in killing viruses as harsh soaps. The study tested multiple handwash products and found that gentle cleansers were effective against enveloped viruses, while non-enveloped viruses showed greater resistance. Gentle cleansers may provide a sa...

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalFrontiers in Virology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 12, 2023

Ethics & Human Research, May-June 2023

An Australian interview study suggests that advance research directives (ARD) can facilitate informed consent for people with dementia. The study also highlights the importance of family members as proxy decision-makers. In another article, a competency framework is proposed to improve health research ethics education.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalEthics & Human Research·TypeSurvey·DateJun 12, 2023

Fatal overdoses increase after police seize drugs, study finds

A new study found that police drug seizures are associated with increased fatal overdoses in the surrounding geographic area, suggesting that efforts to disrupt drug markets can have unintended effects. The research highlights the need for comprehensive policing strategies that consider all outcomes, including harm reduction approaches.

SourceBrown University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

NIH grant backs study focused on Alzheimer’s in women

Researchers aim to understand how estrogen levels and menopausal status interact with memory-related brain function and behavioral outcomes in women aged 35-80. The study could help identify physiological factors underlying sex differences in Alzheimer's incidence and improve early disease detection and preventive therapies.

Small differences with a big effect

Researchers identified at least 745 reQTLs in monocytes, influencing the activation of cells upon contact with bacteria or fungi. The findings provide basic knowledge for personalized medicine in treating infectious diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Determining how a sugar molecule can affect cancer cell response to chemoradiotherapy

A team of researchers at Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center has discovered a key role for glucose in regulating DNA synthesis and cancer cell response to chemotherapy. By targeting this pathway, the researchers hope to develop new treatments that make lung cancer more responsive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Creating artificially engineered organs could become quicker and easier

Researchers have developed a new manufacturing pipeline to simplify and advance high-value manufacturing of tissue-compatible organs, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. This breakthrough aims to address the dire need for artificially engineered organs and tissue grafts, potentially saving thousands of lives in the UK.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Local loss of species may often be underestimated

A new biodiversity study shows that even seemingly healthy ecosystems with increasing species numbers may already be on the path to decline and loss of species. The study's findings suggest that species richness is not a reliable metric for monitoring ecosystems, as it can mask negative trends in species extinction.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023

How much microplastics is there in Swiss rivers and lakes?

Researchers developed a model to predict microplastic concentrations in Swiss waters, finding that around half of the microplastics remain in the country. The Rhine river near Basel has the highest concentration of microplastics, with major cities contributing significantly to pollution.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Water·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023

The chatbot will see you now:

A chatbot-based system improved the informed consent process for genomics research studies, leading to faster completion, higher understanding, and increased accessibility. The study involved 72 families and found that 96% of participants passed a quiz assessing their knowledge, with 86% reporting a positive experience.

Geologists challenge conventional view of Earth’s continental history, stability with new study

Researchers found that stable cratons have repeatedly deformed beneath their crust since formation, contradicting decades of plate tectonics theory. This deformation is caused by dense mantle keels peeling away from the lithosphere during supercontinent breakup.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023

“Choosing Wisely” interventions can reduce antibiotic overuse at safety-net hospitals, UCLA-led research suggests

A statewide pay-for-performance intervention based on Choosing Wisely reduced rates of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions for acute respiratory tract infections from 43% to 25%. This reduction occurred without measurable harms at safety-net hospitals serving disadvantaged patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Treadmill for microswimmers allows closer look at behavior

A team of researchers has created an acoustic microfluidic method to study swimming cells and microorganisms, including the single-cell alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. The device uses ultrasonic waves to trap cells in place without affecting their swimming behavior, enabling controlled experiments on cilia motion and cell motility.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

New study links contraceptive pills and depression

A large-scale study found that women who used combined contraceptive pills were at a greater risk of developing depression than those who did not. The risk was particularly high for teenage users, who had a 130% higher incidence of symptoms of depression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalEpidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 12, 2023

Seeing the insides of plants in 3D

A new technology called PHYTOMap allows researchers to study dozens of genes simultaneously without genetic manipulation, providing insights into plant responses to climate change. The method has the potential to improve crop resiliency and inform agriculture optimization.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Plants·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

A new dynamic probe of electric forces between molecules

Scientists have developed a new dynamic probe to measure electric interactions between molecules and the environment. Using ultrashort terahertz pulses, they mapped the optical absorption of molecules in an external electric field, revealing the strength and dynamics of these forces.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Cortical thinning is associated with altered neurotransmission in young adults with a history of heavy drinking since adolescence

Young adults with a history of heavy drinking since adolescence exhibit lower cortical gray matter thickness and altered neurotransmission, according to a recent study. Cortical thinning is associated with increased inhibitory neurotransmission, especially in the frontal and parietal lobes.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·DateJun 12, 2023

Blocking immune system 'messenger' may treat severe asthma

Researchers found that blocking histamine-releasing factor (HRF) and immunoglobulin E (IgE) interactions may provide relief for patients with severe asthma. The study, published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, suggests two potential therapies, including HRF-2CA and a therapeutic antibody called SPF7-1.

SourceLa Jolla Institute for Immunology·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

The advances and promise of continuous glucose monitoring in diabetes management

Recent studies show that continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is effective in improving glycemic control, reducing hypoglycemia risk, and increasing access to diabetes technologies. The technology has the potential to replace self-monitoring of blood glucose for insulin-requiring patients and become a standard for managing Type 2 Diabetes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·TypeCase study·DateJun 12, 2023

A Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study presents consensus on the management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage-related hydrocephalus

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage-related hydrocephalus is a complex syndrome that can lead to cognitive impairment and neurological damage. The new consensus guideline recommends standard-of-care approaches, including history review, head CT scans, and medications or surgical interventions to manage excessive intracranial pressure.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Neurosurgical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 12, 2023

Self-esteem of kids with short stature tied to social supports, not height

A new study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that the quality of life and self-esteem of children with short stature are associated with coping skills and social supports, rather than their height. The researchers suggest that addressing short stature through a broader, psychosocial approach might have a more positive impac...

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 12, 2023

Study explores how social network users decide to make friends

Researchers found that similarity with a potential friend, the properties of a potential friend's network, and the potential friend's domain expertise are key drivers behind individuals' online friendship decisions. Having common interests and demographic traits improves the odds of two strangers becoming friends in an online community.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 12, 2023

Malaria in the Medici era

Researchers detected Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest form of malaria, in mummified tissues from Medici family members. The parasite was identified through microscopic and molecular analyses, revealing characteristic ring-shaped structures and Maurer's clefts.

SourceEurac Research·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Decreased decision-to-incision time for non-emergent cesarean deliveries improves maternal and fetal outcomes for Black and Hispanic patients

A new study from Boston Medical Center found that implementing a streamlined process for urgent cesarean deliveries improved infant Apgar scores, particularly for Black and Hispanic infants. The study reduced decision-to-incision time by 64% among all patients, with the largest improvements seen in Black and Hispanic patients.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJun 12, 2023

Digital divide hinders rural innovation, study shows

A study published in Telecommunications Policy found that cloud adoption enables innovation in rural businesses, increasing new-to-market innovation by 6% compared to non-cloud firms. The research highlights the importance of broadband access in enabling rural entrepreneurship and supporting vibrant economies.

SourcePenn State·JournalTelecommunications Policy·TypeSurvey·DateJun 12, 2023

Engineered white blood cells eliminate cancer

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a new therapy that uses engineered macrophages to eliminate solid tumors. The treatment works by silencing a molecular pathway that prevents white blood cells from attacking cancer cells, allowing them to recognize and destroy tumoroids.

Which came first: the reptile or the egg?

Researchers from Nanjing University and University of Bristol found that early reptiles, birds, and mammals may have borne live young, contrary to the long-held assumption that hard-shelled eggs were key to their success. Extended embryo retention was likely a crucial adaptation that allowed these animals to thrive on land.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 12, 2023

Masai giraffes more endangered than previously thought

Researchers found that giraffes on either side of the rift have not interbred for over 1,000 years, with females showing no signs of migration. The study suggests that Masai giraffes are more endangered than previously thought, requiring separate but coordinated conservation efforts.

SourcePenn State·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJun 12, 2023

THE LANCET: First phase 3 trial of a chikungunya vaccine candidate finds it is generally safe and provokes an immune response

A phase 3 trial found that the VLA1553 vaccine candidate produced an immune response in 99% of participants, inducing protection against disease. The study also showed that the vaccine was generally safe and well-tolerated across all age groups, with most adverse events being mild or moderate.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 12, 2023

Samurai wasp has minimal impact on native stink bugs, new CABI-led study confirms

A new study by CABI confirms the Samurai wasp has minimal impact on native stink bugs, with most non-target species being less parasitized. However, some species with unusual life cycles may face increased risk of parasitism. The study assessed the realized host range of the Samurai wasp and found it to be broader than initially thought.

SourceCABI·JournalJournal of Pest Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

BU researchers discover small, specific subpopulations of hypothalamic neurons play a major role in regulating the thyroid system

A new study at Boston University School of Medicine found that specific subpopulations of hypothalamic neurons play a major role in regulating thyroid hormone levels. The researchers also discovered that these neurons respond to fasting and weight loss, shedding light on the central control of metabolism.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThyroid·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023

Even with insurance, many patients with diabetes turn to GoFundMe to offset high cost of care

A study found that even insured patients with diabetes use crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe to cover excess medical expenses, including uncovered co-pays and life-saving care. Researchers urge policymakers to consider these needs when developing affordable diabetes care policies.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

New method enables study of nano-sized particles

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a new method called single-particle profiling (SPP) to study bioparticles in health and disease. The SPP enables the measurement of thousands of particles between 5 and 200 nanometres in size, with potential applications in vaccine development and creating more effective nanocarriers.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 12, 2023

Millions of patients do not have full recovery of smell or taste senses after COVID infection, study finds

A retrospective analysis of national data found that over 20 million Americans experienced loss of smell or taste after COVID infection, with a large portion never fully recovering these senses. The study estimated that almost 28 million Americans may be left with decreased sense of smell after COVID infection.

SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalThe Laryngoscope·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Unhealthy neighborhood food environments are linked to poor birth weight outcomes in New York

A new study at Columbia Mailman School of Public Health found that neighborhoods with high densities of unhealthy retail food establishments were associated with a higher risk of delivering babies born large-for-gestational age, while those with healthy food options reduced this risk. The study analyzed data from over 106,000 births in...

One in 15 in changed reported sexual identity over a six-year period, new UK survey study finds

A new UK survey study led by Lancaster University found that 6.6% of the population aged 16 and over changed their reported sexual identity over a six-year period. The research challenges the assumption that sexual identity mobility declines with age, revealing that it is as prevalent among over-65s as young people.

SourceLancaster University·JournalDemography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 12, 2023

Evolutionary fuel: Researchers study maintenance of an ancient chromosomal inversion

A team of scientists investigated how genetic variation is maintained in a species and its impact on adaptation. They found that a complex evolutionary process contributes to the persistence of both old and new forms of a chromosomal inversion in stick insects, potentially fostering long-term survival.

SourceUtah State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 2023