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Science News for March 22, 2023


Depressed, and aging fast

Researchers found that older adults with depression exhibit accelerated biological aging, poor physical and brain health, and worse cardiovascular health. This association suggests opportunities for preventive strategies to reduce disability associated with major depression in older adults.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

New survey finds COVID-19 pandemic changed public’s view of obesity

A new survey found that nearly a third of Americans worry more about obesity due to COVID-19, with 28 million people considering weight loss methods. The survey also showed that nearly 90% with obesity have tried to lose weight at some point in their lives, but many underestimate the effectiveness of treatments like weight-loss surgery.

SourceAmerican Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery·JournalSurgery for Obesity and Related Diseases·TypeSurvey·DateMar 22, 2023

A robust phase extraction method for overcoming spectrum overlapping in shearography

A robust phase extraction method for overcoming spectrum overlapping in shearography has been proposed, achieving high-quality phase extraction. The method uses a linearly transformed elliptical window to maximize the use of spectrum information and improve phase extraction quality.

Legislators struggle to distinguish between AI and constituents

A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that lawmakers are only slightly more likely to respond to AI-generated messages than human-generated ones, highlighting the potential risks of emerging technologies on democratic representation. The research used a field experiment to investigate the impact of natural language mod...

SourceCornell University·JournalNew Media & Society·DateMar 22, 2023

How the brain's 'internal compass' works

A new study has uncovered the brain's internal compass, which helps it navigate changing environments. The research found that the brain uses a mechanism called 'network gain' to reorient itself after being disoriented, allowing for rapid recovery of its sense of direction.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Research uncovers details about the mysterious author of early astronomy textbooks

Researchers discovered previously unknown details about Margaret Bryan's background and family through a paper published in Notes and Records: The Royal Society Journal of the History of Science. Girolami found that Bryan was born around 1759, married William Bryan in 1783, and had two daughters, Ann Marian and Maria.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNotes and Records the Royal Society Journal of the History of Science·TypeNews article·DateMar 22, 2023

Imaging captures social dynamics of 'pee-shy' mice

A recent study published in Communications Biology used thermal imaging to capture the social dynamics of 'pee-shy' mice, revealing that males adjust their urine marking behavior based on their past interactions. The research provides insight into how animals manage their social signaling, a crucial aspect of their survival and evolution.

SourceCornell University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 22, 2023

Fun climate change education programs could boost interest in STEM subjects

A new study from the University of Surrey found that a fun, technology-based climate change education program increased climate change literacy by 9.4% in primary school children and 4.5% in secondary school children. The Heat-Cool program encouraged pupils to use infrared cameras to explore urban heat islands, stimulating interest in ...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2023

Sweets change our brain

A study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers found that consuming small amounts of high-fat and high-sugar foods regularly rewires the brain, leading to a preference for these types of food.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Big firms are failing to reduce unconscious bias against disabled people

A new study found that working for a big company or in an HR role does not lower the likelihood of showing unconscious bias against disabled people at work. Despite large firms' efforts to address EDI and unconscious bias through training, levels of implicit bias remain roughly the same across different sized companies.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2023

Mercury emission estimates rarely provide enough data to assess success in eliminating harmful global gold mining practice

A study analyzed 25 countries' baseline mercury emission estimates and found that they rarely provide enough information to determine whether changes are due to actual change or data uncertainty. This lack of transparency hinders efforts to draft meaningful mercury reduction targets in national action plans.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Policy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

Surprisingly simple explanation for the alien comet 'Oumuamua's weird orbit

Researchers Jennifer Bergner and Darryl Seligman suggest that 'Oumuamua's acceleration can be explained by the outgassing of hydrogen gas as the comet warmed up in the sunlight. The comet's small size allowed for a significant effect, with the tiny push from hydrogen spurted out of ice altering its gravitational deflection around the sun.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023

New medicine from Norwegian university spin-off extends terminally-ill cancer patients’ lives

The new medicine has shown promising results in a Phase 1 clinical trial, with 70% of patients stable after six weeks and one patient remaining stable for over two years. Developed by NTNU researcher Marit Otterlei, ATX-101 targets cancer cells' stress regulation system, leaving healthy cells unaffected.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalOncogene·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 22, 2023

Light meets deep learning: computing fast enough for next-gen AI

Researchers developed a novel design for the chip using a crossbar layout, outperforming state-of-the-art photonic counterparts in terms of scalability and technical versatility. The synergy of powerful photonics with the novel crossbar architecture enables next generation neuromorphic computing engines.

SourceInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 22, 2023

Smokeless tobacco and cigarettes confer similar adverse vascular health risks

A new study finds that smokeless tobacco products increase the risk of developing peripheral artery disease by two-fold compared to non-users. The study analyzed data from 14,344 participants and found a significant association between smokeless tobacco use and PAD, with a rate of 4.4 cases per 1,000 person years.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

Towards reducing biodiversity loss in fragmented habitats

Researchers at McGill University have found a way to predict the movement of species in fragmented habitats, which is key to their survival. By combining lab experiments and mathematical modeling, they determined that the survival of species lies in the interplay between their patterns of movement and the orientation of habitat corridors.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 22, 2023

Searching for life with space dust

Researchers suggest studying well-preserved grains of space dust for potential signs of life, as they could contain fossils of microorganisms. The idea estimates that around 100,000 such grains could land on Earth every year.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalInternational Journal of Astrobiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

Changing temperatures increase pesticide risk to bees

A new study suggests that climate change could lead to increased pesticide toxicity on bee populations and their pollination services. Environmental temperature can influence the degree to which pesticides affect bees' behavior, with certain temperatures causing a 'tipping point' in their ability to tolerate pesticide exposure.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Researchers develop method for deciphering positional rules in splicing

A new method for global profiling of in-situ RNA–RNA contacts associated with specific RBP has been developed, revealing positional mechanisms by which PTBP1-associated RNA loops regulate cassette exon splicing. The study found that PTBP1 can modulate cassette exon splicing via mediating specific RNA loops in a position-dependent manner.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 22, 2023

Social media usage is associated with body image concerns, poor mental health and disordered eating, according to evidence from 50 studies across 17 countries

A scoping review of 50 studies across 17 countries found a strong association between social media usage and body image concerns, poor mental health, and disordered eating. The study suggests that excessive social media use can have negative effects on young people's self-esteem and overall well-being.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateMar 22, 2023

A brain-inspired computer model that understands speech like humans

Researchers developed a computer model based on human brain mechanisms to improve speech comprehension. The model extracts multilevel information from ongoing speech and uses non-linguistic knowledge for disambiguating word meanings. This approach is more human-like than existing language models like ChatGPT.

SourceNCCR Evolving Language (National Centre of Competence in Research)·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023

Fake and extremely biased Twitter content decreased between 2016-2020, but top influencers were more polarized

Research by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found a decrease in fake and extremely biased Twitter content between 2016-2020, but top influencers became more polarized, creating an echo chamber effect. The study analyzed vast amounts of Twitter data to examine the social media platform's influence on U.S. politics.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

Frequent COVID testing of nursing home staff protected residents, saved lives

A new study found that frequent COVID surveillance testing protected nursing home residents by detecting infected staff earlier, disrupting transmission chains. The research showed that high testing frequency facilities had clinically meaningful reductions in resident cases and deaths, particularly before vaccine availability.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 22, 2023

Hidden 'super spreaders' spur dengue fever transmission

A new study by Emory University researchers found that asymptomatic individuals account for a significant proportion (74%) of dengue infections in an Amazonian city. The 'super spreader' spaces, where infected people frequent, are crucial in predicting and controlling outbreaks.

SourceEmory University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

A review by Community Care Behavioral Health Organization of UPMC in Psychiatric Services journal confirms Pennsylvania's Medicaid program offers a national model for behavioral-physical health integration

A county-based approach in Pennsylvania's Medicaid program integrates behavioral health and physical health services, resulting in improved access to care and better outcomes. This model has been recognized as a national best practice, with the state ranking among the top three for addressing mental health challenges.

SourceUPMC Health Plan·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 22, 2023

Dedicated protocol of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more effective than the drug treatment available today for fibromyalgia caused by head injury

Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that dedicated hyperbaric oxygen therapy is more effective in reducing pain and healing patients with fibromyalgia caused by traumatic brain injury. The treatment resulted in significant improvements in 2 out of 5 patients, including improved pain threshold tests and quality of life indicators.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 22, 2023

Global warming undermines greenhouse gas sink function of pristine wetlands

A new study published in Nature Climate Change reveals that pristine wetlands are currently a greenhouse gas sink, but this function will be reduced by over half in response to a 1.5-2°C temperature increase. Warming promotes net methane and nitrous oxide emissions from these ecosystems, posing a positive feedback on global warming.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 22, 2023

OSU researchers create artificial enzyme for fast detection of disease-related hormone in sweat

Researchers at Oregon State University have created a portable sensor that can detect cortisol hormone levels in sweat, providing a fast and reliable diagnostic tool for various diseases. The device uses an artificial enzyme to capture cortisol molecules, producing electrical signals that indicate the hormone's presence.

SourceOregon State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

At least 80% of the world’s most important sites for biodiversity on land currently contain human developments, study finds

A study by researchers from BirdLife International, WWF, and the University of Cambridge found that 80% of key biodiversity areas (KBAs) on land contain infrastructure, which is a significant driver of threats to biodiversity. The prevalence of infrastructure in KBAs is likely to increase due to planned developments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 22, 2023

Nine in 10 women enter pregnancy with at least one indicator that risks baby’s health

A recent study published in BJOG found that nearly all women in England (97.5%) have at least one indicator of potential health risks during pregnancy, emphasizing the need for improved preconception care and policies to support women's overall well-being before pregnancy. The research highlights health disparities across different age...

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalObstetrics & Gynecology An International Journal·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

New microchip links two Nobel Prize-winning techniques

Physicists at Delft University of Technology have developed a new technology on a microchip combining optical trapping and frequency combs to measure distances with high precision in opaque materials. The technology uses sound vibrations instead of light, offering a simple and low-power solution for applications such as monitoring the ...

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateMar 22, 2023

New mosquito species reported in Florida

A new mosquito species, Culex lactator, has been found in Florida, with thriving populations reported in three counties. Scientists are concerned about the potential for this species to transmit diseases, particularly given the lack of research on its disease risk.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateMar 22, 2023

Is bone health linked to brain health?

A study published in Neurology found an association between low bone density and an increased risk of developing dementia. Researchers analyzed data from 3,651 participants and found that those with the lowest total body bone density were 42% more likely to develop dementia than those with the highest bone density over a 10-year period.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMar 22, 2023

Research shows link between child emotional difficulties and family strain during coronavirus lockdowns

A new study found that coronavirus lockdowns led to increased emotional and behavioral difficulties in children, particularly those with families experiencing co-habitation issues. Caregivers in Turkey reported higher levels of worry about COVID-19 infection, yet showed lower family co-existence difficulties.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPsychological Reports·TypeSurvey·DateMar 22, 2023

Cover crops help mitigate farmer losses

A North Carolina State University study found that cover crop adoption can reduce crop insurance losses due to prevented planting in the US Midwest. Longer term use of cover crops also leads to larger reductions in prevented-planting risk, with a 1% increase translating to nearly $40 million in reduced indemnities.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

Bilayer PET/PVDF substrate-reinforced solid polymer electrolyte improves solid-state lithium metal battery performance

A bilayer, nonwoven PET microfiber/polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber membrane acts as a separator for LIB systems and prevents short circuits. The substrate significantly improves the mechanical and thermal properties of solid polymer electrolytes, enabling cells to operate over 2000 hours.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

How vision begins

The study found that a microscopic change in a protein in the retina occurs within a fraction of a trillionth of a second, triggering the perception of light. This process involves the transformation of a molecule called retinal from its 11-cis form to its all-trans form, which takes just one picosecond.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Fujitsu and Osaka University develop new quantum computing architecture, accelerating progress toward practical application of quantum computers

The new architecture reduces physical qubits required for error correction to 10% of conventional architectures, enabling better performance than classical computers. This breakthrough accelerates progress toward practical quantum computing, with the aim of applying quantum computing applications to various societal issues.

The complete respiratory supercomplex identified

The study resolves a long-standing question about the structure of respiratory supercomplexes in unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Complex II is found to be part of the supercomplex in these organisms, optimizing ATP formation and revealing a surprising variety in supercomplex construction.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature·DateMar 22, 2023

A viscious circle: Climate change affects greenhouse gas emissions from stream networks

A new study by Linköping University reveals that climate change alters natural greenhouse gas fluxes from streams and lakes, making landscape carbon sinks less effective. The researchers found that increased precipitation and temperature affect the amount of carbon washed into streams and lakes, leading to greater emissions.

SourceLinköping University·JournalLimnology and Oceanography Letters·DateMar 22, 2023

Enabling adeno-associated virus gene therapy despite preexisting humoral immunity

Researchers used a monoclonal antibody to reduce circulating IgG levels, allowing for successful gene delivery to the liver and heart via systemic AAV-based gene therapy in mice and non-human primates. The strategy has potential to circumvent neutralizing antibody limitations and expand gene therapy accessibility.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Association between childhood obesity and prenatal exposure to environmental pollutants may vary depending on the mother’s nutritional status

A study found that prenatal exposure to environmental pollutants contributes to childhood obesity and metabolic disorders. However, the researchers discovered that high levels of vitamin B12 may enhance the obesogenic effect of certain pollutants, while β-cryptoxanthin from oranges or apples may protect against these effects.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2023

New research shows prevalence of frailty among middle-aged adults; disparities in access to healthcare among frail, poorer Americans

A new study reveals that 31% of middle-aged people are frail or pre-frail, with frail individuals facing delayed or omitted medical care. Socioeconomic disadvantages exacerbate these disparities, making it challenging for frail, poorer Americans to access healthcare.

SourceVillageMD·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 22, 2023

Managing night-time breastfeeding in young infants

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine has released new guidelines to help parents manage night-time breastfeeding in young infants. The guidelines emphasize the importance of mothers sleeping close to their babies and taking measures to minimize nighttime feedings, promoting a more responsive and baby-led approach to breastfeeding.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2023

Potential relief for osteoarthritis moves to clinical trial after animal studies

Researchers have found a potential treatment for osteoarthritis by targeting the GP130 immune receptor, which causes hyper-inflammation in joints. The new compound R805/CX-011 showed promising results in animal studies, reducing joint pain and stiffness, and may lead to Phase 1 and 2A clinical trials.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Got milky spots?

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals a unique subset of fibroblastic reticular cells in omental milky spots crucial for immune cell recruitment to prevent sepsis. These cells regulate the display of CXCL12, recruiting lymphocytes to sites of inflammation.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

How preservice teachers argue about controversial issues

A study by Ruhr-University Bochum investigated how 76 prospective biology teachers argue about controversial topics such as mandatory vaccination against COVID-19. The researchers found that the structural complexity of their argumentation was good, but they could include a broader range of content areas and perspectives in their argum...

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalInternational Journal of Science and Mathematics Education·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

Babies or beauty?

Researchers found that the Alba morph in female Colias butterflies evolved once near the last common ancestor over 1.2 million generations ago. The genetic basis of Alba was identified as a regulatory region in DNA, maintained through gene flow and balancing selection.

SourceStockholm University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023

How fit is your gut microbiome?

A recent study found that moderate exercise duration (≥150 minutes/week) improves gut microbiome richness and diversity, with no significant impact from exercise intensity. Additionally, normal-weight individuals showed the most beneficial changes, while overweight individuals' microbiomes were influenced by poor dietary habits.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMar 22, 2023

Performance of OncoK9® in real-world veterinary practice mirrors clinical validation study

A new study from PetDx shows OncoK9 performs similarly to its landmark clinical validation study in real-world settings, detecting 26 types of cancer in high-risk dogs. The test also provides peace of mind for veterinarians and families by detecting cancer in over 94% of negative cases.

SourceStephens & Associates·JournalJournal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 22, 2023