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Science News for March 13, 2023


Optical computing for object classification through diffusive random media

Diffractive deep neural networks enable objects to be classified through unknown random diffusers, offering high speed, parallelism and low power consumption. The single-pixel broadband diffractive network achieved a blind testing accuracy of 87.74% in recognizing handwritten digits.

A new and better way to create word lists

Researchers at the Complexity Science Hub have developed an algorithm that can be applied to different languages and expand word lists significantly better than others. The new method, called LEXpander, outperforms previous algorithms in German and English, especially in sentiment analysis tasks.

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalBehavior Research Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

Links between maternal autonomy support and controlling parenting and adolescents’ depressive symptoms

Researchers found that maternal autonomy support positively predicts adolescents' basic psychological needs satisfaction, while adolescent-reported controlling parenting negatively predicts depressive symptoms. The study highlights the importance of understanding the relative impact of parents' and adolescents' perceptions on mental he...

SourceDoshisha University·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·TypeSurvey·DateMar 13, 2023

Gut microbiome plays key role in response to CAR-T cell cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found that a healthy gut microbiome can predict the efficacy of CAR-T cell therapy in patients with B-cell lymphomas. The study identified specific microbiome features associated with improved treatment outcomes, but highlights the need for further investigation into the causal nature of this relationship.

Mental fatigue can impair physical performance - study

A study by University of Birmingham's School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences found that mental fatigue impairs physical exercise performance. Researchers measured cognitive tasks on a group of 16 men and women, showing increased exertion during physical exercise among mentally fatigued participants.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalInternational Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

How much open space does an urban area need?

A new study found that US metropolitan areas lack sufficient preserved open space, leading to increased land values and improved social well-being. The researchers suggest that this is due to limited public funds, competing demands, and the perception of open space as a luxury rather than a necessary service.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·DateMar 13, 2023

Changing landscapes alter disease-scapes: Study

Researchers used cumulative pressure mapping and machine learning to understand the impact of human pressures on six vector-borne diseases. They found that changes in land use can lead to abrupt shifts in infectious disease burdens and public health needs.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 13, 2023

Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on incidence of long-term conditions in Wales

A population data linkage study found fewer people in Wales diagnosed with long-term conditions in 2020 and 2021 than expected, indicating a potential backlog of undiagnosed patients. This disparity affects chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and anxiety disorders, corresponding to over 30 and 80 missing diagnoses respectively.

SourceSwansea University·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

Racial health inequality in prostate cancer associated with facility-level disparities

A study found that facility-level disparities in the US are associated with poorer prostate cancer treatment and outcomes for racial minorities. Non-Hispanic black men treated at high-burden safety-net hospitals had the worst outcomes, highlighting the need for targeted initiatives to address these disparities.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalUrologic Oncology Seminars and Original Investigations·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

FSU researchers find decaying biomass in Arctic rivers fuels more carbon export than previously thought

A new study led by Florida State University researchers found that plants and small organisms in Arctic rivers contribute significantly to carbon export, accounting for 40-60% of particulate organic matter flowing into the ocean. This discovery highlights the importance of rivers as a crucial component of the modern carbon cycle.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 13, 2023

Unique image obtained by Brazilian scientists with high-speed camera shows how lightning rods work

Brazilian researchers used a high-speed camera to capture an image of lightning rods trying to connect to nearby buildings, revealing details of the connections. The image shows that even with multiple lightning rods in place, the strike connected to a smokestack on top of one building, highlighting the importance of proper installation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 13, 2023

Remote blood pressure management program enhanced care during pandemic

A remote hypertension program, operated by Mass General Brigham, successfully supported patients through the COVID-19 pandemic in achieving their blood pressure goals. Participants who enrolled during the pandemic reached and maintained their goal blood pressures an average of two months earlier than in the pre-pandemic period.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2023

Mass media campaigns can be effective in promoting safer crop pest and disease control, new study reveals

A new CABI-led study found that mass media campaigns improve farmers' knowledge of pesticide risks and safety measures, boost the adoption of environmentally safer alternatives to synthetic pesticides. The campaigns also increase the use of personal protective equipment and reduce pesticide-related illnesses.

SourceCABI·JournalJournal of Rural Studies·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Organosulfur content of vegetables quantified

A research team at Osaka Metropolitan University has developed a selective and sensitive method for detecting reactive polysulfides in vegetables. The study found high levels of reactive polysulfides in leek genus vegetables like onions and garlic, as well as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

High-performance detectors to combat spies

A team from UNIGE and ID Quantique has developed single-photon detectors that can generate secret keys at a rate of 64 megabits per second, overcoming current limitations. This innovation enables ultra-secure data transfer for banks, healthcare systems, governments, and the military.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Photonics·TypeNews article·DateMar 13, 2023

Attracting stem cells and facilitating bone regeneration by adhesive protein

A new coating material developed by Korean researchers facilitates bone regeneration and attracts osteo-progenitor cells, significantly improving the success rate of dental implants. The coating, loaded with BMP-2, prevents non-osteogenic cell invasion and induces high bone differentiation in a short period.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBioengineering & Translational Medicine·DateMar 13, 2023

Thousands of native plants are unphotographed, and citizen scientists can help fill the gaps

Despite centuries of documentation, many native Australian plant species remain unphotographed. Citizen scientists can contribute to filling this gap using digital cameras, helping researchers identify species and support conservation. The study highlights the importance of photographic records in protecting threatened plant species.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

Too hot to handle

A new study from the University of Pittsburgh reveals that metal organic frameworks (MOFs) can heat up significantly when absorbing gases, leading to a loss of efficiency. The researchers identified MOFs with high densities and small pores as more capable of conducting heat, paving the way for their practical commercial implementation.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMar 13, 2023

Wayne State researchers develop new technology to easily detect active TB

Researchers at Wayne State University have developed a novel non-sputum-based technology to differentiate between active TB and latent TB infection. The technology uses IgG antibodies against transketolase, an essential enzyme required for the intracellular growth of TB bacteria.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalMicrobiology Spectrum·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 13, 2023

COVID-19 can cause 'face blindness'

A Dartmouth study found that COVID-19 can cause 'prosopagnosia,' or face blindness, and impairments in navigational abilities. Researchers worked with a patient who experienced difficulty recognizing faces and navigating, leading to dissociation between face recognition and cognitive map representation.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalCortex·TypeCase study·DateMar 13, 2023

New study aims to break the taboo surrounding spirituality

A new study has revealed that Danes experience strong spiritual needs, including finding inner peace and giving to others, which should be integrated into the healthcare system. The study, based on a questionnaire survey of over 100,000 Danes, shows that these topics are highly valued and essential for patients' well-being.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Europe·DateMar 13, 2023

The right cocktail of gut enzymes can stop c. diff in its tracks

Researchers found that certain enzymes within a class known as bile salt hydrolases (BSHs) can restrict Clostridioides difficile (C. diff.) colonization by altering existing bile acids and creating a new class of bile acids within the gut's microbial environment. Selecting the right suite of BSH-producing bacteria is critical, as inter...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Study reveals inequity in journal peer review

A study by Michigan State University researchers found that authors from historically excluded groups face worse peer review outcomes, with authors from Asia and countries with low social and economic development facing rejection rates of up to 50% higher than those from Western countries. The study suggests that journals can adopt sol...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 13, 2023

Magnetism fosters unusual electronic order in quantum material

Physicists at Rice University have found that magnetism subtly modifies the landscape of electron energy states in iron-germanium crystals, promoting and preparing for the formation of a charge density wave. This is one of the few known examples of a kagome material where magnetism forms first, leading to charges lining up.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

On pandemic’s third anniversary, loneliness and isolation are down, but still high, among older adults

A new poll shows a decline in loneliness and isolation among older adults, but one-third still experience these feelings, especially those with poor health or disabilities. The study highlights the importance of social interaction for overall mental and physical health, and the need for a concerted effort to address these issues.

Study sheds light on concerning new trend in drug advertising: Patient influencers

A new study explores the growing trend of patient influencers promoting prescription drugs on social media, often with close ties to pharmaceutical companies. Despite some good intentions, researchers raise concerns about the lack of medical training and potential for misinformation, highlighting the need for greater regulation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·TypeSurvey·DateMar 13, 2023

Scientists demonstrate time reflection of electromagnetic waves in a groundbreaking experiment

Researchers at CUNY ASRC detail a breakthrough experiment in which they observed time reflections of electromagnetic signals in a tailored metamaterial. The effect causes a significant portion of the broadband signals to be instantaneously time reversed and frequency converted, forming a strange echo.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Benefits of the net-zero emissions strategy for Nepal

A study by the Research Institute for Sustainability found that Nepal's long-term strategy for net-zero emissions can deliver large reductions in air pollutant emissions and improve energy security. The strategy also promises to boost equity, with benefits including improved health outcomes and reduced impacts on climate change.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnergy Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

UK scientists discover a new way to help prevent breast cancer ‘time bomb’

Researchers at the Institute of Cancer Research discovered that molecular changes in lung tissue can trigger breast cancer cells to 'reawaken' and form secondary tumors. They found that blocking PDGF-C activity with an existing cancer growth blocker could help prevent this, offering a potential strategy to defuse these 'time bombs'. Th...

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Researchers identify novel genes that may increase risk for schizophrenia

Researchers have identified two novel genes, SRRM2 and AKAP11, linked to schizophrenia. The study suggests that rare damaging variants in these genes confer a similar magnitude of schizophrenia risk across diverse human populations. This finding has implications for the development of new treatments for the disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

Turning vegetable oil industry waste into power: innovative electrode modification improves bio-electrochemical treatment of wastewater

Researchers have developed a novel and cost-effective anode catalyst that can improve and stabilize power generation performance of MFCs treating vegetable oil industry wastewater. The study investigates modification of electrodes to increase bacterial adhesion and efficient electron transfer.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateMar 13, 2023

New targets for CAR-T cell therapy against acute myeloid leukemia through AI-assisted analysis

Researchers have identified two potential molecular targets, CSF1R and CD86, that can be used to develop CAR-T cells effective against acute myeloid leukemia. The study's findings demonstrate the potential of AI-assisted analysis in discovering new treatment options.

Researchers publish comprehensive review on pool fire dynamics

A comprehensive review paper provides insights into the diffusion of pool fire combustion and fire dynamics, uncovering thermal feedback mechanisms and non-linear evolution of combustion rates. The research has significant implications for understanding pool fire behavior under varying environments.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProgress in Energy and Combustion Science·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 13, 2023

Oncotarget | Selective protection of normal cells from chemotherapy, while killing drug-resistant cancer cells

A new review paper suggests that selective protection of normal cells from chemotherapy could increase the therapeutic window and improve outcomes for cancer patients. The authors propose using antagonistic drug combinations to kill drug-resistant cancer cells, reducing side effects and improving quality of life.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 13, 2023

Pusan National University develops novel biosensor to detect DNA damage in real time

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel FRET-based biosensor to detect double-strand breaks in DNA, providing real-time information on γH2AX. The sensor's sensitivity is higher than conventional immunostaining techniques, making it useful for identifying DNA damage factors and elucidating repair mechanisms.

SourcePusan National University·JournalBiomaterials Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Abnormal biomarkers associated with obesity are identified in very young Latino children, study finds

A study from George Mason University found elevated insulin and hemoglobin A1C levels in early elementary-aged Latino youth with obesity, a risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases. The research aims to identify at-risk children and implement interventions earlier to mitigate the effects of childhood obesity.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalSouthern Medical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

Epilepsy could become easier to pinpoint with blood test

Researchers have discovered higher levels of immune proteins in the blood before and after epileptic seizures. The study suggests a potential biomarker for epilepsy, which could be identified using a simple blood test. This finding may help distinguish epilepsy from other conditions, such as psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.

SourceLund University·JournalHeliyon·DateMar 13, 2023

The Idaho student homicides and forensic genetics

The article explores the role of forensic genetics in solving crimes using DNA analysis, familial DNA searching, and genealogical research. Forensic genetic genealogy has been successfully used to generate investigative leads for unsolved cases, leading to increased solved case rates and development of new investigative tools.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalForensic Genomics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2023

Fewer sports injuries with digital information

A digital health platform has been shown to reduce injury incidence in youth athletics by providing valuable information on adolescent growth and training loads. The study found that clubs with access to the platform had significantly lower injury rates, with injuries occurring twice as long after the start of the season.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 13, 2023

The fat tax: Long-term, systemic antibiotic use for the treatment of adolescent acne can promote fat accumulation

Researchers found that long-term antibiotic use during adolescence disrupts the healthy gut microbiome, leading to changes in liver metabolism that promotes central fat accumulation. The study suggests that antibiotic treatment may have lasting detrimental effects on liver metabolism and promote adiposity.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

A European consortium achieves record efficiency in direct conversion of CO2 and H2O into sustainable fuels using earth-abundant materials

A European consortium has achieved a world-record solar-to-fuel efficiency of over 10% in converting CO2 and H2O into sustainable fuels using sunlight. The innovative cell produces hydrogen continuously (24/7) without the use of critical raw materials.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 13, 2023

3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries revealed for the first time

Researchers pioneered a technique to observe the 3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries, enabling direct observation of the solid electric interface (SEI) and its progression. The study reveals key predictors of SEI layer formation in a complex interplay of molecular dimensions, surface properties, and solvent interactions.

SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023