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Science News for June 21, 2023


Study proposes simple low-cost solutions to improve thermal comfort in social housing

Researchers developed a pilot study to address the issue of thermal discomfort in social housing projects. They proposed replacing conventional windows with fully openable tilting windows, monolithic expanded polystyrene walls, and green-tinted tempered glass, which can reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Surrey researchers unravel the workings of a unique carbon capture technology, advancing the UK's mission to reach net zero

Surrey researchers have made significant breakthroughs in capturing and converting carbon dioxide into useful products. The team's switchable DFM, 'NiRuNa/CeAl', captures CO2 in three chemical reactions: methanation, reverse water-gas shift, and dry reforming of methane.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Discovery of novel primitive xeno nucleic acids as alternative genetic polymers

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology explore co-polymerization of glycol nucleic acid monomers with dicarboxylic acids to produce branched and linear xeno nucleic acid polymers. These findings suggest that diverse prebiotic organic molecules could have led to population-level differences in abundance of genetic polymers.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Even "safe" air pollution levels can harm the developing brain, study finds

Research from Keck School of Medicine of USC found that everyday air pollution can alter brain development patterns in adolescents, linked to changes in brain connectivity over time. Exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide was associated with increased or decreased functional connectivity between brain regions.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironment International·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2023

Domenick Zero named recipient of the 2023 IADR Distinguished Scientist William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award

Domenick Zero, an Indiana University professor, received the William H. Bowen Research in Dental Caries Award for his groundbreaking research on caries prevention and early detection. His work has improved oral health through innovative methods and tools, shifting focus from invasive treatment to tooth preservation.

Could bamboo be the next source of renewable energy?

Research suggests that bamboo can be converted into bioethanol and biogas, offering an attractive alternative to fossil fuels. The chemical composition of bamboo varies across species, highlighting the need for further research on selecting optimal species for biomass production processes.

SourceWiley·JournalGCB Bioenergy·DateJun 21, 2023

Can humor help treat depression and anxiety?

A study published in Brain and Behavior found that humor therapy reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in participants from various countries. The analysis included 2,964 participants and nine different countries, suggesting that humor therapy may be a feasible complementary alternative for clinicians, nurses, and patients.

SourceWiley·JournalBrain and Behavior·DateJun 21, 2023

Scientists discover mechanism affecting heart development in Down syndrome

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have discovered a molecular mechanism contributing to congenital heart defects in infants with Down syndrome. The study found that an abnormal interferon response inhibits key molecular events required for heart development, leading to impaired cardiogenesis.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Exoplanet may reveal secrets about the edge of habitability

A newly discovered exoplanet, LP 890-9c, is providing important insights into conditions at the inner edge of a star's habitable zone. The team's models detail differences in chemical signatures generated by rocky planets near this boundary, based on variables including size, mass, and surface temperature.

SourceCornell University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJun 21, 2023

Watch worms use electricity to jump

Researchers discovered that microscopic Caenorhabditis elegans worms can use electric fields to jump across Petri plates or onto insects, allowing them to attach themselves. This behavior is made possible by the natural electric charge of pollinators like bumblebees and hummingbirds.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Caribbean seagrasses provide services worth $255B annually, including vast carbon storage, study shows

A new University of Michigan-led study estimates that Caribbean seagrass meadows provide approximately $255 billion in annual ecosystem services, including vast carbon storage. The study highlights the importance of conserving these threatened ecosystems, which are critical allies in the fight against climate change.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBiology Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2023

Demonstrating the significance of individual molecules during mechanical stress in cells

Researchers at the University of Münster have developed a new method to study the function of individual molecules during mechanical stress in cells. They used a light-sensitive molecule to alter proteins and apply short light pulses to control their movement, allowing them to investigate the mechanical significance of these proteins.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Stark racial and ethnic disparities in alcohol-related US deaths during Covid, study reveals

A new study revealed significant racial and ethnic disparities in US alcohol-related deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic. American Indian and Alaska Native populations saw a more than doubling of alcohol-related deaths, while Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans experienced substantial increases as well.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

Brain stimulation may prove helpful to acute stroke patients, pilot study suggests

A pilot study suggests that high-definition cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (HD C-tDCS) may be beneficial for acute ischemic stroke patients. In the study, patients who received HD C-tDCS showed improved blood flow and a significant rescue of threatened brain tissue, compared to those in the sham group.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 21, 2023

Anarcheological first: A poem by Virgil appears on the remnants of a Roman oil amphora

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the form of an oil amphora from the Roman region of Betica, featuring written text on its underside. The fragment, which corresponds to the seventh and eighth verses of Virgil's poem 'The Georgics', reveals insights into the poet's life and knowledge of the fertile Guadalquivir plain.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalJournal of Roman Archaeology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

Atoms realize a Laughlin state

Researchers have successfully created and visualized a Laughlin state using ultracold neutral atoms in an optical box. The experiment demonstrated the peculiar 'dance' of particles and their fractional charge, opening up new possibilities for exploring exotic states in quantum simulators.

Can light therapy treat atrial fibrillation?

New research suggests optogenetics could restore regular heart rhythm without shocks, improving prognosis and quality of life for AF patients. Light therapy has shown promising results in rats, indicating potential translatability to humans.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateJun 21, 2023

Neanderthal cave engravings are oldest known – over 57,000 years old

Researchers have identified finger-marks on a cave wall in France as the oldest known Neanderthal engravings, dating back to around 75,000 years ago. The marks were made using a plotting analysis and photogrammetry to create 3D models, confirming that they are deliberate, organized shapes created by human hands.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

Is TBI a chronic condition?

A study published in Neurology found that people with TBI experience improvement and decline over time, affecting their ability to function and thinking skills. The research suggests that TBI should be recognized as a chronic condition to provide tailored care for its evolving needs.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 21, 2023

Atherosclerosis accelerates aging

A new study by CNIC researchers reveals that low-grade systemic inflammation triggered by subclinical atherosclerosis accelerates epigenetic aging in otherwise healthy young individuals. The study found a strong association between atherosclerosis progression and accelerated biological age, with potential reversibility through lifestyl...

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeCase study·DateJun 21, 2023

World's biggest study of wildfire smoke impact reveals alarming long-term health impacts

A comprehensive study found that increased exposure to wildfire-related PM2.5 was associated with a higher risk of all-cause and nonaccidental mortality, as well as an increased risk of dying from neoplasms. The research used a large-scale national cohort database from the UK Biobank, involving 492,394 participants.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 21, 2023

Fatal cycle for tumor cells

Researchers have developed a new approach to treating tumors using 'self-immolative' polyferrocenes that trigger a fatal cycle of oxidative stress in cancer cells. In experiments, these copolymers inhibited tumor growth with negligible side effects, offering potential for chemodynamic therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Monarchs’ white spots aid migration

A study by University of Georgia researchers found that monarchs with larger white spots fly more efficiently, making long trips easier. The team discovered a correlation between increased solar radiation and the evolution of larger white spots on the butterflies' wings.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 21, 2023

A clean energy transition is possible for China’s manufacturing industry

A recent study led by Princeton University researchers found that China's industrial parks can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and freshwater consumption by transitioning to clean energy sources. The study estimates that this transition could lead to a reduction of 40% in energy supply emissions, equivalent to 7% of China...

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 21, 2023

New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis articles showcase innovative approaches for diagnostics and drug screening and evaluation

Recent studies in the New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis feature novel diagnostic tools, RNA sequencing-based workflows, and mechanical property evaluations to enhance cancer and cardiovascular disease treatment outcomes. These innovations aim to improve the therapeutic effect of drugs and promote personalized medicine.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Study shows lifestyle intervention promoting whole-food, plant-predominant eating pattern can achieve type 2 diabetes remission

A case series study demonstrated that a whole-food, plant-predominant dietary pattern and standard medical treatment can successfully achieve type 2 diabetes remission in 37 percent of patients. The study contributes novel information on the feasibility of achieving remission simply by eating healthy food.

SourceAmerican College of Lifestyle Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·TypeCase study·DateJun 21, 2023

People who develop diabetes after pregnancy are less likely to regain control of blood sugar if they had gestational diabetes

A study found that people with a history of gestational diabetes are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes within nine years after delivery, particularly in Black and Hispanic women. Regular diabetes screenings in the early postpartum period can alter disease progression and improve control.

Monarch butterflies are more likely to survive their long migrations if they have more and larger white spots on their wings, possibly because it gives them an aerodynamic advantage

Researchers found that monarch butterflies with more and larger white spots on their wings had a higher survival rate during long-distance migrations. The study suggests that these white spots may provide an aerodynamic benefit, helping the butterflies navigate and stay aloft during their journeys.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 21, 2023

An app can transform smartphones into thermometers that accurately detect fevers

Researchers at the University of Washington created an app called FeverPhone that uses existing phone sensors and screens to estimate whether people have fevers. The app was tested on 37 patients in an emergency department and showed accuracy comparable to consumer thermometers, with potential for early intervention in viral outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·DateJun 21, 2023

Omega-3 fatty acids linked with slower progression of ALS

A new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that consuming omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid, may help slow the progression of disease in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Higher blood levels of ALA were associated with a slower disease progression and lower risk of death.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNeurology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

Wearable monitor detects stress hormone levels across a full 24-hour day

A new wearable device can track adrenal steroid levels in real-time, providing insights into hormonal rhythms and revolutionizing endocrine disease diagnosis. The U-RHYTHM technology offers a more accurate picture of hormone balance than traditional tests taken at one point, enabling earlier treatment interventions.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

As summer heats up, CHOP researchers study caregiver attitudes toward pediatric vehicular heatstroke

A recent survey of caregivers found that most support education efforts and technology use to reduce heatstroke risk, but negative attitudes towards those who put children at risk may hinder mitigation efforts. The study aims to inform the development of pediatric vehicular heatstroke prevention strategies.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·TypeSurvey·DateJun 21, 2023

NIST lays groundwork for future ultra-precise timing links to geosynchronous satellites

Researchers at NIST have demonstrated a capability to transmit extremely precise time signals through the air between far-flung locations, paving the way for ultra-precise timing links with geosynchronous satellites. The method enables time synchronization with femtosecond precision and robustness in atmospheric disturbances.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

University of Toronto Engineering researchers are using electric fields to control the movement of defects in crystals

Researchers from University of Toronto Engineering, Dalhousie University, Iowa State University, and Peking University have successfully controlled the motion of dislocation in a single-crystalline zinc sulfide using an external electric field. This discovery has significant implications for improving the properties and manufacturing p...

Equity in computer science impossible without review of curriculum, say researchers

A study found that girls in English secondary schools are 42% less likely to aspire to be computer scientists compared to boys. The researchers propose revamping the curriculum to include creative aspects like digital art to increase interest and engagement in computer science. This could help achieve greater gender parity in computing.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalInternational Journal of Science Education·TypeSurvey·DateJun 21, 2023

Screening newborns for "bubble-baby" disease saves lives

A new study shows that newborn screening for severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) has significantly increased the survival rate of children after bone marrow transplantation from 73% to 87%. Children diagnosed at birth have a 92.5% survival rate without infection, while those diagnosed later have lower rates.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe Lancet·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 21, 2023

Detection of an echo emitted by our Galaxy's black hole 200 years ago

An international team of scientists has discovered an echo emitted by the supermassive black hole at the centre of the Milky Way, which emerged from a long period of dormancy 200 years ago. The black hole, four million times more massive than the Sun, gobbled up cosmic objects before re-entering quiescence.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

New study describes the genetic diversity and drug resistance markers of malaria parasites in Mozambique

A new genomic analysis reveals a north-south divide in P. falciparum drug resistance markers and genetic structure in Mozambique. The findings suggest that artemisinin remains effective for treating malaria, while piperaquine can be used in combination therapies. However, the high frequency of quintuple mutants requires close monitorin...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

Banks still offer Black entrepreneurs inferior loans, service even when they are better qualified than peers

A new study reveals that banks continue to offer Black customers subpar loan products and services, even when they have stronger financial profiles than White customers. However, the study also identifies specific strategies minority small business owners can use to signal sophistication and secure better loans.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers enhance electron–phonon coupling strength in low-dimensional strontium ruthenate

Researchers demonstrated a 300-fold increase in electron-phonon coupling strength by reducing dimensionality, paving the way for novel engineering opportunities. The enhancement was attributed to non-local nature of coupling in synthetic SRO/STO superlattices.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

UNM researchers find medical cannabis patients who feel 'high' report greater symptom relief but increased negative side effects

A new study by UNM researchers found that patients who reported feeling 'high' experienced 7.7% greater symptom relief, but also a more than 20% increase in negative side effects. The study suggests that feeling 'high' may be an unavoidable component of using cannabis medicinally.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 21, 2023

Mutant KRAS regulates Y chromosome gene in colorectal cancer, driving metastasis and inhibiting anti-tumor immunity

A preclinical study has uncovered the role of Y chromosome gene KDM5D in regulating anti-tumor immune responses and promoting metastasis in male patients with KRAS-mutated colorectal cancer. The study reveals that mutant KRAS drives upregulation of KDM5D, leading to reduced cell adhesion and immune recognition by the immune system.

DNA test could broaden access to cervical cancer screening

Rice University engineers developed a low-cost, point-of-care DNA test for HPV infections that can be used to screen for cervical cancer. The test, which requires just two pieces of equipment and delivers results in 45 minutes, has the potential to make cervical cancer screening more accessible in low- and middle-income countries.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Novel imaging agent allows for earlier detection of progressive pulmonary fibrosis

A novel imaging agent has been developed to non-invasively detect pulmonary fibrosis in its early stages. The agent targets extracellular matrix fibers and has shown significant uptake in lungs with pulmonary fibrosis, matching histological results. This breakthrough could lead to earlier detection and better monitoring of the disease.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 21, 2023

New MU study examines variability of water, carbon in Missouri agriculture ecosystems and future impact on crops

A new University of Missouri study examines the impact of farming practices on crop resilience to climate change, focusing on water and carbon fluxes in three contrasting ecosystems. The research found that native prairie ecosystems are most resilient to extreme weather, while tilled cropping systems are more sensitive.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAgricultural and Forest Meteorology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Ketone supplements worsen performance in trained endurance athletes, researchers find

A new study published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism found that ketone supplements impaired performance in well-trained endurance cyclists. The researchers recruited experienced athletes who cycled for five or more hours per week, simulating race conditions before conducting a 20-minute time trial.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalInternational Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023