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Science News for June 8, 2023


A novel method for squeezing molecules together could significantly reduce chemical manufacturing waste and its negative environmental impacts

Scientists have developed a novel mechanochemistry method that can manufacture chemicals without toxic solvent waste, reducing energy consumption and pollution. The technique uses organic chemistry and nanotechnology to push molecules together and create chemicals.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

In schools that could benefit most, building relationships is key to increasing capacity for nutrition education programming

A new study by researchers at the School District of Philadelphia found that building relationships between SNAP-Ed implementers and school staff was crucial for developing school staff motivation and capacity to implement programming. This approach can help schools most in need, which are often high-poverty schools with limited capacity.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·TypeObservational study·DateJun 8, 2023

Study finds children who live close to highly trafficked roads have higher risk of developing atopic dermatitis

A recent study published by National Jewish Health has found that children who live close to highly trafficked roads are more likely to develop atopic dermatitis. The study, which analyzed data from 2008-2021, revealed that living within 500 meters of a highly trafficked road increased the risk of developing atopic dermatitis in children.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Why certain fish are left off the hook

A recent study finds that most US fish stocks are not constrained by the Magnuson-Stevens Act, but rather by economic demand and other factors. The act's critics may be misinterpreting the data, as healthy stocks are being left in the water due to market forces and policies.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2023

Seaweed farming may help tackle global food insecurity

Research suggests that seaweed farming could be a game-changer for addressing food insecurity globally. By reducing the need for land, freshwater, and chemical fertilizers, seaweed cultivation can lead to higher incomes for farmers in coastal regions of Africa and Southeast Asia. As demand for nutrient-rich seaweed products grows world...

SourceTufts University·JournalGlobal Food Security·DateJun 8, 2023

Robotic vehicles fight dengue-carrying mosquitos in Taiwan sewers

A new study deployed unmanned ground vehicle systems to monitor and eradicate Aedes mosquitos in Taiwanese sewers. The system detected 20.7% of inspected sewers with mosquito traces, leading to a significant reduction in adult mosquito density after intervention.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

For pet dogs, ‘running with the pack’ may be the best prevention to promote healthier living

A large survey of over 21,000 dog owners reveals that a dog's social support network is tied to better health outcomes, with financial factors having a lesser effect. The study found that dogs living in households with more children or wealthier owners were less healthy, while those with more social companionship were healthier.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEvolution Medicine and Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateJun 8, 2023

Greenhouse gas emissions at ‘an all-time high’ - and it is causing an unprecedented rate of global warming, say scientists

Human-induced warming has increased at an 'unprecedented rate' since the last major assessment, with greenhouse gas emissions reaching a record level. The remaining carbon budget has halved over three years, highlighting the urgent need for policymakers and climate experts to access up-to-date scientific evidence.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEarth System Science Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Elusive planets play “hide and seek” with CHEOPS

The CHEOPS satellite has successfully detected two elusive exoplanets, TOI 5678 b and HIP 9618 c, using its precise measurements. The planets have sizes similar to Neptune and Earth radii, respectively, with orbital periods of 48 days and 52.5 days.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateJun 8, 2023

Study uncovers how B cells react to skin cancer

A new study reveals that antibody-producing B cells in patients with melanoma may be defective, leading to ineffective responses against the disease. The research finds that active B cells accumulate at the edge of tumors and gather in small groups, carrying specific antibody features that react with T cells and other immune cells.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Lundquist Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences contributes to new study published in Nature Genetics

A new study published in Nature Genetics sheds light on how humans maintain healthy blood sugar levels after meals and how the process goes wrong in type 2 diabetes. The findings could help inform future treatments of the condition, which affects over 460 million people worldwide.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·JournalNature Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Study finds disease progression and adverse radiation effects are low in patients undergoing preoperative stereotactic radiosurgery

A new study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute highlights improved outcomes for patients treated with preoperative SRS, particularly in rates of tumor recurrence, meningeal disease, and adverse radiation effects. The two-year cavity local recurrence rate was 13.7%, the two-year meni...

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateJun 8, 2023

Colorful foods improve athletes’ vision

Researchers at the University of Georgia found that a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables can improve athletes' visual range by acting as a filter to prevent blue light exposure. This improvement can lead to better eye health and functional vision, essential for top athletes in almost any sport.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalExercise and Sport Sciences Reviews·DateJun 8, 2023

CARD8 helps human immune system respond to some viruses, including COVID-19

A study published in PLOS Biology found that the CARD8 inflammasome sensor is essential for detecting coronavirus infections, but may detect different viruses in different people. The researchers also discovered that genetic variation among humans and across species affects the sensor's ability to detect viral enzymes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Confinement effects of carbon nanotubes on polyoxometalate clusters enhance electrochemical energy storage

Researchers have developed a method to encapsulate polyoxometalate molecules within carbon nanotubes, enhancing the electrochemical energy storage of materials. The study found that these hybrids exhibit improved electrochemical properties due to reduced aggregation and increased electron transfer.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJun 8, 2023

Scientists map complete genome of millet

Researchers have unlocked the large-scale genomic analysis of foxtail millet, an important cereal crop that has been grown for roughly 11,000 years. The study identified key genes and marker-panels for its evolution and improvement in different environments.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 8, 2023

Access to non-police services for domestic abusive victims shown to decrease witness statement provision but reduces victimisation

A study by University of Surrey found that access to non-police services for domestic abuse victims decreases witness statement provision, but reduces the risk of future incidents. The six-month intervention provided dedicated caseworkers to facilitate access to various support services.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEconomic Policy·TypeObservational study·DateJun 8, 2023

Reversing age-related taurine loss via supplementation improves mouse longevity and monkey health

Researchers found that taurine deficiency contributes to aging-related disorders in animals. Taurine supplementation increased median lifespan by 10-23% and improved muscle strength, coordination, and cognitive functions in mice. Human clinical trials are necessary to confirm its benefits and potential risks.

Duke-NUS researchers develop promising stem cell-based regenerative therapy for heart disease

Researchers developed a stem cell-based regenerative therapy that repairs damaged tissue and improves heart function in preclinical trials. The treatment involves transplanting non-beating heart cells into the damaged heart, reducing the risk of adverse side effects and improving the chances of recovery for heart failure patients.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·Journalnpj Regenerative Medicine·TypeCase study·DateJun 8, 2023

Incomplete imaging for transient ischemic attack emergencies increases stroke risk

A study found that patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA) who received incomplete neurovascular imaging were at higher odds of experiencing a stroke within 90 days. The research, published in the American Journal of Roentgenology, used Medicare claims data to analyze TIA emergency department encounters.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Tuberculosis BCG vaccine found ineffective against COVID-19 in healthcare workers

The BCG vaccine, primarily developed to prevent tuberculosis, was found ineffective against COVID-19 in a large international trial involving nearly 4,000 healthcare workers. Researchers discovered that vaccination increased the risk of symptomatic disease during the first six months following enrolment.

SourceGermans Trias i Pujol Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 8, 2023

Experimental cancer drug may slow inflammation linked to heart disease

A new study shows that saracatinib reduces inflammation in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease by more than 90% and boosts genes that help clean up plaque deposits. The experimental cancer drug may offer an effective therapy for cases where standard treatment fails to help.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Professors call for further study of potential uses of AI in special education, avoiding bans

A group of educators is urging caution when using artificial intelligence (AI) in special education, highlighting its potential to benefit students with disabilities. The authors emphasize the need for careful consideration of AI's uses and limitations, including information literacy, consent, and critical thinking.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Special Education Technology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 8, 2023

Purified pituitary tissue generated from stem cells

Scientists have successfully converted human pluripotent stem cells into purified pituitary cells that secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a hormone normally produced by the pituitary gland. Transplantation of these cells into mice with hypopituitarism resulted in long-lasting improvement in ACTH levels.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Greenhouse gas emissions at ‘an all-time high’ causing unprecedented rate of global warming - global scientists

Key indicators show human-induced warming reached 1.14°C above pre-industrial levels, with emissions at an all-time high. The analysis calls for policymakers and climate negotiators to access up-to-date scientific evidence to base decisions, as the remaining carbon budget is declining.

SourceMaynooth University·JournalEarth System Science Data·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Personalized vaccines may revolutionize cancer treatment

Researchers have made a breakthrough in treating melanoma by adding an mRNA vaccine tailored to individual tumour genetics to common immunotherapy, significantly improving survival and disease recurrence rates. After two years, cancer-free survival increased to 78.6%, and the risk of death or cancer returning was reduced by 44%.

SourceEdith Cowan University·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 8, 2023

Children in Chile saw 73% fewer TV ads for unhealthy foods and drinks following trailblazing marketing restrictions

Chile's multi-phased regulations, starting in 2016, have led to a 73% drop in children's exposure to TV ads for regulated foods and drinks. The number of unhealthy food ads on TV dropped by 64%, with 77% fewer during children's programming.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateJun 8, 2023

Revealing how blood triggers brain disease

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discovered that blood leaking into the brain triggers toxic genes in microglia, turning them into harmful cells that destroy neurons. Fibrin, a blood protein, is responsible for this process, which can lead to cognitive dysfunction and motor impairment.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Immunology·DateJun 8, 2023

UMass Amherst epidemiologist updates and validates ‘gold standard’ of prenatal physical activity tools

A University of Massachusetts Amherst researcher has updated the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), a widely used tool for measuring prenatal physical activity. The new PPAQ is considered reliable and valid, providing estimates of physical activity and sedentary behavior in pregnant women.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Single-cell atlas of the whole human lung

The Human Lung Cell Atlas provides insights into lung biology by combining data from nearly 40 studies, revealing rare cell types and cellular differences between healthy people. The study found common cell states between lung fibrosis, cancer, and COVID-19, offering new ways of understanding lung disease.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

The evolution of societal cooperation

Researchers developed a model that considers multiple coexisting social norms and studied how these norms might compete as individuals learn from one another. Key findings include the success of 'stern judging' in promoting cooperation, particularly in situations where individuals show a preference for interacting within their own group.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 8, 2023

Groundbreaking findings bring hope for faster and better recovery after stroke

Researchers have developed an effective treatment that accelerates recovery after stroke by modulating astrocyte reactivity and cortical connectivity. The treatment, which involves administering a molecule called C3a in nasal drops, has shown positive results in mice with stroke, offering new hope for faster and better recovery.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Utilizing data to predict hospital wait times – it can save more than your patience!

A new study in the INFORMS journal Manufacturing & Service Operations Management uncovers how to showcase hospital wait times to increase efficiency, accurately route emergency vehicles, and save money. The study provides a comprehensive picture of patient waiting trajectories for low-acuity patients and first responders, aiding in bet...

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing and Service Operations Management·TypeObservational study·DateJun 8, 2023

Accuracy of AI in estimating best-corrected visual acuity from fundus photographs in eyes with diabetic macular edema

Researchers developed an AI model to estimate best-corrected visual acuity from fundus photographs in patients with diabetic macular edema, achieving accuracy within one to two lines on a standard chart. The study's findings support the potential of AI in clinical settings, with opportunities for further improvement.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJun 8, 2023

Comparing doctors to peers doesn’t make them hate their jobs and may improve quality of care, new USC Schaeffer study finds

A new USC Schaeffer Center study reveals that behavioral interventions aimed at improving performance can be designed to protect clinician job satisfaction and improve quality of care. The research team discovered it is essential for clinicians to have control over the behavior being evaluated or encouraged.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 8, 2023

Full electrification of Uber and Lyft vehicles would provide only modest benefits to society, study shows

A new study estimates that the overall benefits of switching ride-hailing vehicles from gasoline to electric would be very modest, with a 3% gain per trip. The study found that traffic-related factors, such as congestion and crash risk, dominate societal costs, outweighing emissions reductions.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 8, 2023

THE LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES: Taking a common diabetes medication after testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 reduces risk of developing long COVID by 40%, study finds

A new randomized controlled trial found that taking metformin after testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 reduces the risk of developing long COVID by 40%. The study, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, involved over 1,100 patients and showed metformin prevented over 40% of cases of long COVID over a 10-month follow-up period.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 8, 2023

A potential milestone in cancer therapy

A research team has identified a previously unknown weak spot in prostate cancer cells that could lead to new therapeutic approaches for other types of cancer. The study found that inhibiting this process can reduce cancer growth without affecting normal cell growth.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

New in the Hastings Center Report, May-June 2023 Issue

The US has implemented laws banning transgender youth from competing in sports according to their gender identity. However, existing evidence does not support these restrictions, as they would deprive vulnerable trans youth of physical, mental, and social benefits. The article proposes changes to promote a more inclusive and fair athle...

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalThe Hastings Center Report·TypeContent analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Octopuses rewire their brains to adapt to seasonal temperature shifts

Researchers found that two-spot octopuses produce different neural proteins under warm versus cool conditions by editing their RNA. This rewiring likely protects their brains and may be used widely amongst octopuses and squid. Temperature-sensitive RNA editing occurs rapidly, with significant changes occurring within days.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2023

Drug to treat cannabis use disorder shows promise in clinical trial

A Phase 2a clinical trial found that AEFO117 significantly reduced the effects of cannabis in daily smokers and decreased both positive mood effects and decision to use cannabis. The drug, developed by Aelis Farma, appears to counteract the high associated with THC without disrupting physiological and behavioral functions.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 8, 2023

Geisel study offers new insights into how Medicare fraud has spread across U.S. regions in recent years

A study by Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine found that Medicare fraud in home healthcare billing spread rapidly across U.S. regions between 2002 and 2009, driven by characteristics such as shared patients, high expenditures, and rapid growth in the number of home health agencies. The researchers developed a novel network analysis ...

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023

Diet tracking: How much is enough to lose weight?

Researchers found that participants only need to track around 30% of the days to lose more than 3% weight and 40% of the days to lose more than 5% weight. A third group, called the low trackers, started tracking only three days a week, and dropped to zero by three months, where they stayed for the rest of the intervention.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalObesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 8, 2023