Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for June 14, 2023


Hybrid AI-powered computer vision combines physics and big data

A new approach to enhance artificial intelligence-powered computer vision technologies has been developed by UCLA researchers, adding physics-based awareness to data-driven techniques. This hybrid methodology aims to improve how AI-based machinery sense, interact, and respond to their environment in real time.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 14, 2023

Machine-learning method used for self-driving cars could improve lives of type-1 diabetes patients

Scientists at the University of Bristol have shown that reinforcement learning significantly outperforms commercial blood glucose controllers in terms of safety and effectiveness. The new study improves on prior work by learning from patient records, achieving good blood glucose control through personalized insulin dosing strategies.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJournal of Biomedical Informatics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Study shines new light on old drug for trauma care

A new study has found that the drug tranexamic acid significantly improves survival rates among severely injured patients, with approximately four extra survivors for every 100 treated with the medication. However, the long-term outcomes of care and quality of life remain a concern, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceMonash University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 14, 2023

When local economic inequality is high, the rich tend to be more generous

A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that individuals with higher incomes tend to be more generous when living in areas with high levels of economic inequality. In contrast, the lowest-income groups show less generosity in more unequal areas. The researchers used local data from the US and UK to examine this relationship.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2023

International expert panel revises management of concussion in sport for optimal care of athletes at all levels of participation

A group of international experts developed a consensus statement on concussion management, including new tools and strategies for identification, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. The statement includes evidence-based recommendations for return to active sport, education, and light intensity exercise to aid recovery.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

Machines can make better decisions than humans, but how do we know when they’re actually accurate?

Research by Francis de Véricourt and Huseyin Gurkan found that trust in machines' decision-making ability is key to effective learning. They discovered that biased learning occurs when humans override algorithmic decisions without observing the machine's correctness, leading to incorrect usage of machines in decision making.

SourceESMT Berlin·JournalManagement Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2023

Novel research shows older breast cancer survivors experience accelerated aging, worse functional outcomes

Researchers from Medical College of Wisconsin found that older breast cancer survivors, particularly those exposed to chemotherapy, showed greater epigenetic aging than their same-aged peers without cancer. This acceleration in biological aging may be associated with worse functional outcomes and quality of life for these patients.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalCancer·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2023

New model offers insights into how stress in neurons connects to cardiovascular disease

Researchers used a new transgenic mouse model to study the impact of oxidative stress on neurons and blood vessels, revealing that high levels of stress can cause sensory neuron degeneration and cardiac hypertrophy. This combination is associated with Friedreich's ataxia, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

How prescribed burns could limit megafires in California, Oregon, and Washington

Researchers found that controlled burns in key areas of northern California, western Oregon, and eastern Washington could drastically reduce wildfire smoke exposure throughout the entire western U.S. This is due to prevailing winds carrying smoke across the continent and abundant dense vegetation fueling smokey fires.

Engineering safer machine learning

A new research paper challenges the idea that unlimited trials are needed to learn safe actions in unfamiliar environments. The team presents a fresh approach that ensures learning safe actions with complete confidence while managing tradeoffs between optimality and exposure to unsafe events.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automatic Control·DateJun 14, 2023

Graphene-confined ultrafast radiant heating for overcoming the trade-off between subnanometer size and high metal loading in meta cluster catalysts

Researchers developed graphene-confined ultrafast radiant heating to overcome the trade-off between ultrasmall size and high metal loading in meta cluster catalysts. The method achieved high metal loading up to 27.1 wt% in subnanometer Co cluster catalysts with fast pyrolysis times.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJun 14, 2023

Researchers succeed in arranging nanoscale quantum sensors on desired targets

Scientists at the University of Tokyo develop a technique to create nano-sized quantum sensors on measurement targets, enabling high-resolution magnetic field imaging with applications in superconductors and electronic devices. The breakthrough uses boron vacancies or lattice defects in hexagonal boron nitride film, allowing for easy d...

SourceSchool of Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Tiny device mimics human vision and memory abilities

Researchers created a small device that captures, processes, and stores visual information in a similar way to humans. This technology uses analog processing, reducing energy consumption and enhancing performance, with potential applications in bionic vision, autonomous operations, and advanced forensics.

SourceRMIT University·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Solar cells can, finally, stand the heat

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have developed a new approach to understanding photovoltaic device performance under varying temperatures. Their findings suggest that thermoradiative and thermophotonic cells can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity even at high temperatures.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2023

A machine learning approach to freshwater analysis

A team of researchers from Syracuse University and Texas A&M University applied a machine learning model to explore the sources of salinization and alkalinization in U.S. watersheds. The study found that human activities, such as road salt application, were major contributors to salinity, while natural processes dominated alkalinity.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateJun 14, 2023

The life below our feet: team discovers microbes thriving in groundwater and producing oxygen in the dark

A team of scientists has discovered ancient groundwaters harbor diverse microbial communities producing large amounts of 'dark oxygen'. This process enables microbes to survive and potentially consume methane, a greenhouse gas. The study's findings challenge prior assumptions about microbial life in subsurface ecosystems.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

Building a blueprint for zero-emissions agriculture

The article discusses the challenges of reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions to zero, but found that technology can help farmers lower pollution by up to 45 percent. The study proposes using carbon-free energy sources, sustainably produced bioenergy, and techniques to capture emissions from these energy sources.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

Making immunotherapy safer

Researchers developed CrossDome, a tool that uses genetic and biochemical information to predict T-cell immunotherapy's impact on healthy cells. The tool identified high-risk candidates in cases where treatments mistakenly attacked heart cells.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateJun 14, 2023

Gemini North detects multiple rock-forming elements in the atmosphere of a scorching exoplanet

Astronomers using the Gemini North telescope have detected 11 rock-forming elements in the atmosphere of WASP-76b, a Jupiter-like exoplanet. The presence and relative amounts of these elements provide key insights into giant gas planet formation and may challenge our understanding of how planets like Mercury and Earth formed.

Conflict in marriage less harmful for kids when dad keeps it constructive

A new study from the University of Illinois found that fathers who use constructive conflict resolution strategies show more involvement and warmth towards their children, leading to positive child development. This approach can help minimize stress and promote healthier family dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

Just add sugar: Research shows common antioxidant can be more beneficial through glycosylation

Researchers have developed methods to produce polyphenolic compounds with improved solubility through microbial fermentation, enabling potential life-saving drugs. The process, called glycosylation, attaches sugar molecules to the compounds, making them more effective in preventing diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

SourceUtah State University·JournalBiotechnology Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Light-controlled transport of biomolecules across the cell membrane

Researchers have designed new light-responsive membrane carriers for the translocation of peptide cargos inside living cells, offering a promising strategy for remotely controlled delivery of large biomolecules. The light-triggered system utilizes azobenzene units to control the transport of cationic peptides across lipid membranes.

SourceCenter for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 14, 2023

It takes a village: Study shows community is key to a sustained passion for science among adolescents

A yearlong science program with family members led to increased interest in STEM subjects and a lifelong engagement. Children who participated showed more enthusiasm for science and were more likely to envision themselves as scientists, while their families reported renewed interest in science at home.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalResearch in Science Education·DateJun 14, 2023

The Viking disease can be due to gene variants inherited from Neanderthals

Research identified three genetic risk factors for Dupuytren's contracture, a condition affecting fingers, that originated from Neanderthal DNA. The study, based on 7,871 affected individuals and 645,880 healthy controls, provides evidence of the intermingling between Neanderthals and modern humans influencing disease prevalence.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2023

Ultrasound activation in cancer immunotherapy

Researchers have developed a sonodynamic cancer immunotherapy based on semiconducting polymer nanoparticles that can be activated by ultrasound, effectively treating orthotopic pancreatic cancer in mouse models. The treatment induces immunogenic cell death and kills cancer cells without causing excessive immune responses.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

CUFE’s researchers examine financial reporting consequences of rigid accounting regulation

A study by Chinese researchers found that financial reports produced during fiscal years mismatched with annual business activity may be less reliable due to rigid accounting regulations. This can result in higher abnormal accruals, lower analyst forecast accuracy, and longer audit reporting delays for affected companies.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalThe Accounting Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

Scientists develop new AI tool for gene discovery in clinical and research settings

Scientists have developed a new AI tool called Bambu that uses long-read RNA sequencing to identify and quantify novel transcripts, providing a better understanding of gene expression and function. This innovative tool can be used in both clinical and research settings to discover new genes and their roles in human diseases.

Thermal infrared reflectance characteristics of natural leaves in 8–14 μm region: mechanistic modeling and relationships with leaf water content

A research team developed a radiative transfer model for plant leaves in the thermal infrared spectrum and found that as the cuticle layer decreases, leaf reflectance increases with decreasing water content. This study provides essential theoretical foundations for understanding TIR spectral behavior of leaves.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalRemote Sensing of Environment·DateJun 14, 2023

The tiger mosquito can transmit the chikungunya virus in temperate conditions

Scientists have found that tiger mosquitoes can transmit the chikungunya virus as effectively at 20°C as at 28°C, raising concerns about its spread in temperate regions. The study reveals different gene expression profiles and microbiome changes in infected mosquitoes, which could lead to increased transmission of the pathogen.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

New way of identifying proteins supports drug development

Researchers have developed a new way to identify proteins based on their amino acid content, which can predict protein function and facilitate the development of new biological drugs. The method shows promise in cancer research, where it can help design more targeted treatments by linking survivin and PRC2 proteins.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournaliScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2023

Newly planted vegetation accelerates dune erosion during extreme storms, research shows

Researchers at Oregon State University found that newly planted coastal switchgrass on sand dunes can accelerate erosion from extreme waves. The study suggests that vegetation initially creates a physical barrier but also increases water penetration into the sediment bed, leading to destabilization and accelerated scarp formation.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

When materials discovery glitters

Researchers at PNNL have created a comprehensive database of understudied quantum materials, enabling the use of machine learning to understand their properties. The database, published in Nature Publishing Group's journal 'Scientific Data,' contains 672 unique structures and 50,337 individual atomic configurations.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScientific Data·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

AI helps show how the brain’s fluids flow

A new AI-based technique measures brain fluid flow with unprecedented accuracy, revealing pressures and three-dimensional flow rates. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for Alzheimer's, small vessel disease, strokes, and traumatic brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2023

Astronomers discover new link between dark matter and clumpiness of the universe

Researchers at the University of Toronto have made a breakthrough in understanding dark matter and its impact on the universe's large-scale structure. By analyzing cosmic microwave background data and galaxy clustering patterns, they suggest that ultra-light axion particles could account for the observed lack of clumpiness.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023

New data demonstrates potential role of probiotic supplementation in adults with Major Depressive Disorder

A new pilot study published in JAMA Psychiatry demonstrates the potential role of probiotic supplementation in supporting mood and mental health in adults with Major Depressive Disorder. The study found significant improvements in depression and anxiety scores over an eight-week period, with notable benefits seen from week four onwards.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 14, 2023

New diagnostic finds intact sperm in infertile men

Researchers developed a noninvasive diagnostic test to identify intact sperm in infertile men with nonobstructive azoospermia. The test uses protein biomarkers AKAP4 and ASPX to visualize well-developed sperm, potentially increasing success rates for surgical sperm extraction. This breakthrough may lead to new male birth control drugs ...

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Slightly lost bumblebees use scent to find their way home

Researchers found that bumblebees use both vision and smell to navigate, with scent marks playing a crucial role in pinpointing the nest entrance in visually ambiguous situations. In experiments, bumblebees overwhelmingly focused on locations suggested by scent marks when visual landmarks were conflicting.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

A patient with kidney cancer overcomes several metastases against all expectations. CNIO researchers discover why and pave the way for similar cases

A patient with kidney cancer overcame several metastases with temsirolimus, leading researchers to identify key mutations that make this treatment effective. The study found that patients with USP9X mutations have altered autophagy and respond better to temsirolimus.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Specialty drugs accounted for most new product launches in the past decade. Why do we know so little about how clinical studies influence their diffusion?

Researchers from McGill University and Ontario Tech University examine the drivers of specialty drug diffusion. They propose a framework that suggests clinical studies affect the diffusion through a multi-stage scientific evidence production process. The study finds that marketing activities have no significant effect on prescriptions.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 14, 2023

It's the combination that matters: oatmeal- plus maggi seasoning-odor results in walnut aroma

Researchers at Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology identify two key odorants: sotolon from Maggi seasoning and (2 E ,4 E ,6 Z )-nona-2,4,6-trienal from oatmeal. Maintaining a one-to-one ratio is crucial to reproduce the characteristic walnut aroma.

SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Shining potential of missing atoms

A team at the University of Vienna has developed a method to controllably create single atomic vacancies in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) using ultra-high vacuum and aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy. This breakthrough enables the creation of defects that can emit single photons, opening up new opportunitie...

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

International expert panel revises management of concussion in sport for optimal care of athletes at all levels of participation

An international expert panel has revised concussion management guidelines to optimize athlete care at all levels of participation. The updated recommendations include new age-appropriate assessment tools and strategies for prevention, early intervention, rehabilitation, and return to sport and education.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateJun 14, 2023

Remains at Crenshaw site are local, ancestors of Caddo, study finds

A new study by University of Arkansas researchers determines that hundreds of human skulls and mandibles at the Crenshaw site are local ancestors of the Caddo Nation. The findings use a novel dating technique to test lead and strontium isotopes in human teeth, revealing a multiregional pattern indicative of local ancestry.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2023

Cutting back on social media reduces anxiety, depression, loneliness

Researchers at Iowa State University found that limiting social media usage to 30 minutes a day significantly improved mental health outcomes, including lower anxiety, depression, and loneliness scores. Participants who exceeded the time limit still showed improvement, highlighting the importance of self-limiting behavior.

SourceIowa State University·JournalTechnology Mind and Behavior·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 14, 2023

A model for stopping heavy ions

Researchers used a nonequilibrium-statistical model to predict the stopping process of heavy ions at high LHC energies, gaining insights into original states of matter and quark-gluon plasma. Future experiments may confirm predicted stopping behavior and reveal properties of gluons.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalPhysics Letters B·DateJun 14, 2023