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Science News for June 6, 2023


Measuring greenhouse gas from ponds improves climate predictions

A Cornell University-led study found that small and shallow ponds emit significant amounts of methane and carbon dioxide, with variability increasing as pond size decreases. The research provides valuable insights into calibrating climate models and informs strategies for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from inland waterbodies.

SourceCornell University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography·DateJun 6, 2023

Knowledge coproduction: Working together to solve a complex conservation problem

A new study highlights the importance of knowledge coproduction in addressing complex conservation problems, specifically in California's Central Valley wetlands. The research team successfully integrated stakeholder input and climate scenarios to develop resilient wetland management strategies.

SourceConservation Biology Institute·JournalConservation Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2023

Why are dog breeds with innate diseases popular?

Research found that flat-faced dog enthusiasts tend to be sociable, empathetic, and unaware of the dogs' health signals, considering health problems as normal breed characteristics. This study highlights the need to educate dog owners about the importance of health issues being abnormal and unacceptable.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateJun 6, 2023

Illuminating the molecular ballet in living cells

The new ultrafast camera technology allows scientists to observe the movement and binding of molecules within living cells with unprecedented precision. This enables researchers to study cancer spread and develop new drugs by revealing deeper understanding of cellular structures like focal adhesions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 6, 2023

A novel green photoreactor for the synthesis of desirable chiral enantiomers

A team of Japanese researchers has successfully developed a recycling photoreactor that enables the synthesis of optically pure compounds with high yields, achieving an optical purity of 98-99%. The system uses a two-step rapid photoracemization process and can produce enantiomerically pure chiral sulfoxides in yields higher than 80%.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

New AI boosts teamwork training

Researchers developed a new AI framework that significantly improves the ability to analyze team communication, enabling adaptive training technologies to facilitate effective team collaboration. The framework performed substantially better than previous AI technologies in classifying dialogue and following information flow.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2023

Significant citizen participation: Study examines the fate of plastic particles

A multidisciplinary team of scientists conducted a comprehensive study to understand the sources and sinks of plastic debris in the Southern North Sea. Local citizen scientists played a crucial role in tracking the distribution pathways of plastic particles, revealing that two-thirds were washed ashore within 25km of their release site.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Two new studies identify promising pathways to treat chronic COVID-19

Two studies investigate long-term consequences of COVID-19, identifying potential drug targets for treating chronic disease. Researchers found novel pathways in the lungs and immune system that may lead to effective treatment options, including therapies targeting immune dysfunction and mucous cell differentiation.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2023

SMART researchers discover novel combination therapy to counter antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections

SMART researchers have discovered a novel combination therapy using rifaximin and clarithromycin to treat antibiotic-resistant Mycobacterium abscessus infections. The study found that rifaximin potentiates clarithromycin against M. abscessus, increasing its sensitivity and effectiveness in killing the bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalJAC-Antimicrobial Resistance·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Cobalt mineralogy at the Iron Creek deposit, Idaho cobalt belt, USA: Implications for domestic critical mineral production

A new study published in Geology evaluates the potential for domestic cobalt extraction from the Idaho Cobalt Belt, which hosts the second largest known domestic resource of critical mineral cobalt. The researchers conclude that the ore from Idaho should be divided and processed for copper and cobalt separately to meet growing demand.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJun 6, 2023

Mount Sinai researchers use new deep learning approach to enable analysis of electrocardiograms as language

Researchers at Mount Sinai have developed an AI model called HeartBEiT that can analyze electrocardiograms as language, enabling more accurate diagnoses. The model outperformed established methods in comparison tests and demonstrated improved performance with lower sample sizes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2023

Social media cherry blossom blooms and AI helping to track climate patterns

A recent study published in Flora used social media images of cherry blossoms to track climate patterns and identify subtle off-season blooms. The researchers analyzed 10 years of data from Flickr and compared it with official records of cherry flowering times in Japan, finding a detailed seasonal pattern of blooming across the country.

SourceMonash University·JournalFlora·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2023

Swarming microrobots self-organize into diverse patterns

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a method to control the behavior of swarming microrobots by varying their size. By mixing different sizes of microrobots, they can self-organize into diverse patterns that can be manipulated when a magnetic field is applied. This technique may help inform future applications such as targ...

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2023

First five years crucial for refugee success: New study

A new study from the University of Auckland highlights the critical role of the first five years in determining successful refugee settlement outcomes. The research finds disparities in income and job status among quota refugees, convention refugees, asylum seekers, and those arriving under family reunification schemes. Extending suppo...

SourceUniversity of Auckland·JournalKōtuitui New Zealand Journal of Social Sciences Online·TypeSurvey·DateJun 6, 2023

The problems with coal ash start smaller than anyone thought

A new study by Duke University researchers reveals that the amount of toxic elements leaching out of coal ash depends largely on its nanoscale structure. The discovery highlights the complexity of coal ash as a material and emphasizes the need for closer examination of fine details within the ash to understand environmental risks.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Fine-tuning 3D lab-grown mini tumors to help predict how patients respond to cancer therapies

Researchers at UCLA have developed a new method to bioprint miniature tumor organoids that can mimic the function and architecture of real tumors. This allows for the accurate measurement of individual organoids, enabling the identification of personalized treatments for people with rare or hard-to-treat cancers.

To prevent future pandemics, leave bats alone

A new study emphasizes the importance of letting bats live undisturbed to prevent zoonotic diseases. Bats are natural reservoirs for a range of viruses that can infect humans, including COVID-19. By preserving their habitats and reducing human-bat interactions, we can lower the risk of another pandemic.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 6, 2023

Controlling and recording brain activity with infrared flexible optoelectronic fibres

A team of scientists has developed soft, bi-directional neural interfaces using non-conventional polymers to transmit infrared light, allowing for simultaneous stimulation and recording of brain activity. The developed implants show minimal tissue inflammation and can be used in chronic experiments to study brain circuitry.

Does multimorbidity impact chronic disease treatment?

Researchers analyzed data from 120 clinical trials and found no evidence that treatment efficacies differ depending on the number of comorbidities. The study suggests that modest levels of comorbidities do not affect treatment outcomes, providing valuable insights for clinicians to make informed recommendations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 6, 2023

Computational model mimics humans’ ability to predict emotions

Researchers at MIT have designed a computational model that can predict other people's emotions, including joy, gratitude, and regret. The model uses insights into human intuition, incorporating factors such as desires, expectations, and observation of actions to make predictions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2023

New superconducting diode could improve performance of quantum computers and artificial intelligence

A University of Minnesota team developed a new superconducting diode that is more energy efficient and versatile than past models. The device can process multiple electrical signals at once and has gates to control the flow of energy, which could enable faster quantum computers for industry use and enhance AI performance.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Brazilian algorithm aims to project future of Amazon Rainforest and predict changes in carbon capture

The CAETÊ algorithm projects the future of vegetation in the Amazon, presenting scenarios for transformation driven by climate change. It shows that a drier climate could increase biodiversity but lower carbon storage, with carbon absorption dropping between 57.48% and 57.75% compared to regular climate conditions.

Unraveling brood parasitism in predatory mites

Researchers found that predatory mite species prefer to lay eggs near guarded host eggs when egg predators are present, increasing offspring survival. However, this comes at a cost for the host, which faces increased risk of thrip egg predation by the adult female parasite.

SourceChiba University·JournalFunctional Ecology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 6, 2023

Optimizing the properties and microstructure of bulk superconductors

Japanese researchers develop improved ternary superconductor bulks from liquid sources, demonstrating enhanced performance and microstructural analysis shows significant reductions in secondary phase particle size. The findings have huge potential for applications in magnetic levitation, electric motors, and energy systems.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

A lung injury therapy derived from adult skin cells

Researchers have developed a therapy using nanocarriers engineered from adult skin cells that curb inflammation and tissue injury in damaged mouse lungs. The treatment has shown promise for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a condition that leads to respiratory failure and puts patients on ventilators.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Finding clues about the process of cell plasticity

A University of Michigan research team has discovered a mitochondrial loop that allows cells to retreat up the path of differentiation, enabling cell plasticity. This finding challenges traditional views on cell differentiation and has implications for tissue regeneration and cancer treatment.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 6, 2023

World’s first demonstration of terahertz signal transparent relay and switching

Researchers developed a system to transmit high-capacity terahertz-wave signals to different locations using direct terahertz-optical conversion and fiber-wireless technology, achieving 32 Gb/s capacity. The system overcomes radio communications limitations in the terahertz band, expanding communication coverage.

Study deciphers the biosynthetic pathway of the antidepressant orcinol glucoside from the plant Curculigo orchioides and engineers the production of orcinol glucoside in the biotech-friendly yeast Yarrowia lipolytica, with yields over 6,400-fold higher th

Researchers have deciphered the biosynthetic pathway of orcinol glucoside from Curculigo orchioides and successfully engineered its production in Yarrowia lipolytica. The resulting yields are significantly higher, exceeding 6,400-fold that of natural plant extraction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 6, 2023

Recent papers in ACS Measurement Science Au

Researchers developed a colorimetric method to detect volatile organic compounds at low levels using a printable glass-based detector. Additionally, strategies are outlined to overcome the single-molecule concentration barrier in fluorescence detection, enabling observations in high-concentration environments. An electrochemical test f...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Measurement Science Au·DateJun 6, 2023

When pigeons dream

Birds experience flight-like sensations in their dreams during REM sleep, suggesting emotional content, while cerebral spinal fluid flow is disrupted. The study reveals similarities between bird and human sleep patterns, highlighting the importance of sleep for brain health and cognition.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Ba2LuAlO5: A new proton conductor for next-generation fuel cells

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new proton conductor, Ba2LuAlO5, which shows high proton conductivity even without modifications. The material's unique structure and water absorption properties make it ideal for protonic ceramic fuel cells, promising a bright future for sustainable energy generation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

LSU Health New Orleans researchers discover potential new rx strategy for ischemic stroke

LSU Health New Orleans researchers found that a combination therapy using Neuroprotectin D1 and Resolvin D1 boosted brain cell survival, growth, and stability. The therapy showed promising results in reducing lesion volume and improving neurological function in acute ischemic stroke models.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCellular and Molecular Neurobiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

New study finds that women and underrepresented groups experience higher rates of sexual harassment, cyber incivility and negative workplace climate in academic medicine

A new study led by Reshma Jagsi found that women, racial and ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals experience higher rates of workplace mistreatment in academic medicine. The study examined the impact on mental health and recommended specific interventions for cultural transformation.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJAMA·TypeSurvey·DateJun 6, 2023

Turning up the heat

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory discovered a method to press solid electrolytes, eliminating air pockets that block ion flow and increasing conductivity by nearly 1,000 times. This breakthrough enables unprecedented control over internal structure, paving the way for industrial-scale processing and more reliable batteries.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 6, 2023

Study reveals honey bee nest structure is surprisingly adaptive, resilient

Researchers discovered that honey bees can adapt their nest structures to compensate for disruptions, prioritizing structural connectedness. This adaptation enhances thermoregulation efficiency, improves larvae development, and optimizes travel distances within the nest.

SourceAuburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Unraveling the historic journey of the mung bean: A tale of evolution, migration and climate adaptation

A new study by USC Dornsife researchers reveals the mung bean's evolution, migration and climate adaptation journey, with two distinct adaptations favored in specific geographic locations. The southern variant is characterized by larger seeds, while the northern variant exhibits drought tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 6, 2023

New research suggests sleep wearables show promise in improving sleep health among marginalized populations

A study published in JMIR Formative Research found that wearable sleep devices show promise in positively impacting sleep health among marginalized populations. Participants perceived the device as easy to use and comfortable to wear, suggesting its potential for improved sleep health. However, barriers to adoption, such as housing sta...

SourceJMIR Publications·JournalJMIR Formative Research·DateJun 6, 2023