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Science News for May 8, 2023


Cover crop management: trade-off between carbon benefits, crop yield

Researchers used an advanced ecosystem model to assess the impacts of winter cover cropping on soil organic carbon accumulation. They found that growing cover crops can increase SOC by 0.33 megagrams per hectare per year and that SOC benefits can be improved through increasing cover crop biomass.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2023

New research in JNCCN finds telemedicine consistently outperforms in-person visits for cancer care when both are available

A large-scale study of patient experiences with telemedicine and in-person visits found that telemedicine consistently outperformed in-person visits in terms of access to care and provider engagement. The study analyzed survey responses from over 39,000 patients across more than 50,000 visits.

SourceNational Comprehensive Cancer Network·JournalJournal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network·TypeSurvey·DateMay 8, 2023

Atmospheric research provides clear evidence of human-caused climate change signal associated with CO2 increases

Scientists have found a clear human fingerprint on climate change, with specific signals from CO2 increases altering Earth's atmosphere temperature structure. This evidence rebuts claims that recent atmospheric and surface temperature changes are natural.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2023

Evolution of the largest of the large dinosaurs

A new Adelphi University study provides insights into how sauropod dinosaurs achieved their record-breaking sizes over time. Researchers found that sauropods reached their exceptional sizes early in their evolution and that with each new sauropod family to evolve, one or more lineages independently reached superlative status.

SourceAdelphi University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 8, 2023

Metabolic syndrome with heavy alcohol use may have contributed to recent surge in alcoholic liver disease-related mortality

Researchers found that heavy alcohol use and the presence of metabolic syndrome were associated with a higher risk for advanced liver disease. The study suggests an increasing interaction effect between MetS, heavy alcohol use, and a recent surge in alcoholic liver disease-related mortality.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateMay 8, 2023

Researchers develop model for how the brain acquires essential omega-3 fatty acids

Researchers have developed a zebrafish model to understand lipid transport across the blood-brain barrier, crucial for healthy nervous system development. The study provides key insights into how omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are transported into the brain and may enable targeted drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

Detailed image of the human retina

Researchers have created a detailed map of human retinal organoid development, revealing information on cell types, proteins, and gene expression. The study uses advanced imaging techniques to visualize multiple proteins simultaneously and provides insights into retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 8, 2023

COVID-19: institutional politics was crucial to success of vaccine technology transfer in Brazil

Researchers found that Fiocruz's partnership with AstraZeneca was crucial to the success of COVID-19 vaccine production in Brazil. The partnership demonstrated the importance of technology transfer agreements, regulatory support, and political skill. Bio-Manguinhos facility played a significant role in producing vaccines, making over 5...

Chinese Medical Journal review highlights the health hazards of air pollution

A Chinese Medical Journal review highlights the health hazards of air pollution, particularly from fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, hospitalization, and respiratory mortality. The study suggests that reducing PM2.5 levels through government interventions and individual...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 8, 2023

Automated detection of embryonic developmental defects

Researchers developed EmbryoNet, an automated image analysis software that uses AI to detect and classify developmental defects in fish embryos. The software outperforms human experts in terms of speed and accuracy, making it a valuable tool for investigating the mechanisms of drug action and studying embryonic development.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 8, 2023

Mathematical model based on psychology predicts who will buy trendy products

A new study developed a mathematical innovation model grounded in psychology to predict adoption trends for new products. The model divides people into four categories: innovator, early adopter, majority, and laggard, and suggests that each group looks for specific properties of adoption trends to inform their purchasing decisions.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPhysica A Statistical Mechanics and its Applications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2023

Fame-seeking mass shooters more likely to plan ‘surprise’ attacks, and the novelty of their locations and targets brings added fame

A new study found that fame-seekers plan their mass shootings as 'surprises,' carefully crafting them in ways that set them apart from previous incidents. Researchers analyzed data from 189 mass shootings between 1966 and 2021, finding that attacks by fame-seekers were about three times more surprising than those from non-fame-seekers.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2023

Researchers develop interfacial charge modification strategy to enhance photocatalytic water oxidation

A new strategy has been developed to enhance photocatalytic water oxidation by introducing a charge-transfer mediator. The mediator, partially oxidized graphene, reduces charge recombination and prolongs the lifetime of photogenerated charges.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 8, 2023

Wakefulness-promoting agents effective for excessive daytime sleepiness but patients may discontinue due to side effects

Researchers found that solriamfetol, armodafinil–modafinil, and pitolisant reduce excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with obstructive sleep apnea already using conventional therapy. However, patients may be more likely to discontinue the use of these medications due to adverse events including headache, anxiety, and insomnia.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 8, 2023

NSU research into bacteria may lead to new ways of treating infections, improving human health

Researchers at Nova Southeastern University have made breakthroughs in understanding the complex relationship between beneficial and harmful bacteria. By studying how these bacteria communicate and work together, they hope to develop new treatments for infections, such as those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournaleLife·DateMay 8, 2023

Tiny microbes could brew big benefits for green biomanufacturing

Researchers have engineered bacteria to combine natural enzymatic reactions with the carbene transfer reaction, producing new-to-nature carbon products that can be used in biochemicals and advanced biofuels. This breakthrough could reduce industrial emissions by providing sustainable alternatives to chemical manufacturing processes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

Port of Miami corals remarkably persistent, new study finds

Researchers found that corals within the Port of Miami's highly urbanized environment exhibit remarkable persistence despite poor water quality, excess nutrients, high temperatures, and low pH levels. The study demonstrates surprising resilience that can teach us about the future of coral reef ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2023

Plastic can drift far away from its starting point as it sinks into the sea

Researchers used computer modeling to simulate the movement of lightweight plastic particles in the Mediterranean Sea. Their results suggest that these particles can drift up to 175 miles laterally from their point of origin before sinking. This discovery highlights the potential for long-distance interactions between plastic waste and...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 8, 2023

Air pollution from oil and gas production responsible for $77 billion in annual US health damages, contributes to thousands of early deaths, childhood asthma cases nationwide

A new study found that air pollution from the oil and gas sector has substantial adverse impacts on air quality and human health, resulting in 7,500 excess deaths, 410,000 asthma attacks, and $77 billion in annual health costs. The pollutants nitrogen oxide, fine particulate matter, and ozone from U.S. oil and gas production were respo...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2023

Study reveals presence of Hunga Tonga eruption aerosols in northern hemisphere stratospheric westerlies

An international team has detected aerosols from the Hunga Tonga eruption in the Northern Hemisphere stratospheric westerlies, aiding simulation of volcanic plume processes. This discovery provides key insights into physical properties and evolutionary process of volcanic aerosols in the stratosphere.

UCI researchers discover new drugs with potential for treating world’s leading causes of blindness in age-related and inherited retinal diseases

Researchers at UCI have discovered new small-molecule drugs that show promise in treating age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa. The treatments, called 'Stress Resilience-Enhancing Drugs,' slow or halt disease progression in animal models.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2023

Drug industry’s carbon impact could be cut by half

A new study from Cornell University found that the pharmaceutical industry can significantly reduce its environmental impact. The study analyzed the full life cycle of the HIV antiretroviral drug Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) and found that energy usage is the biggest contributor to carbon emissions, accounting for up to 45% of t...

SourceCornell University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMay 8, 2023

New technique enables in-vivo analysis of protein complexes

A new glycosidic-bond-based mass-spectrometry-cleavable cross-linker has been developed to improve data analysis throughput and identification accuracy of cross-linking information. This technique enables in-vivo cross-linking of protein complexes in live cells, achieving large-scale and precise analysis of 1,453 proteins.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 8, 2023

A sharp increase in the price of the gout drug colchicine led to lower use and poorer disease control, UCLA research suggests

A sharp increase in colchicine's price led to a 17% drop in its use and worsened disease control in gout patients. Patients turned to alternative medications with potentially different side effects, resulting in increased emergency department visits and specialist consultations.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2023

Physical activity crucial for poststroke recovery

A University of Gothenburg study shows that increased physical activity, with four hours of weekly exercise, doubles the chances of recovering well by six months after a stroke. Men and people with normal cognition tend to maintain an active lifestyle more often, leading to better recovery outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 8, 2023

Using nanopore single-molecule sensing to identify glycans

Researchers developed a glycan identification method based on nanopore single-molecule sensing through derivatization strategy. The method identified different glycan isomers, varying lengths, and branched simple glycans. It revealed cation-π interactions contributing to sensing and paving the way for glycan sequencing

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 8, 2023

AI predicts future pancreatic cancer

An AI tool has identified people at highest risk for pancreatic cancer, suggesting population screening could expedite diagnosis and improve outcomes. The model predicted disease occurrence with accuracy comparable to genetic sequencing tests, targeting those at elevated risk without relying on family history or genetic mutations.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 8, 2023

Researchers overcome stem cell delivery barrier, paving the way for regenerative medicine

Scientists have developed a new method to deliver genetic information to stem cells using nanoparticles coated with a specific polymer, enabling more efficient control over cellular differentiation. This innovation has the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of regenerative medicine treatments.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

Researchers develop flexible sweat sensor based on photonic cellulose nanocrystal

A sustainable, insoluble, and chiral photonic cellulose nanocrystal patch enables calcium ion (Ca2+) sensing in sweat. The researchers developed a simple method to fabricate CNC-based hydrogels, which exhibit freeze resistance, strong adhesion, good biocompatibility, and high sensitivity to Ca2+.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalSmall·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 8, 2023

Leaky-wave metasurfaces: A perfect interface between free-space and integrated optical systems

Scientists at Columbia University create a new class of integrated photonic devices that can convert light from an optical waveguide to an arbitrary optical pattern in free space. The devices simultaneously control all four optical degrees of freedom, paving the way for applications in quantum optics, optogenetics, and holographic disp...

THE LANCET: An estimated one million stillbirths and newborn baby deaths could be prevented each year by implementing low-cost pregnancy interventions in low- and middle-income countries

Eight low-cost interventions can prevent an estimated 566,000 stillbirths and 5.2 million babies born preterm or small for gestational age each year. Implementing these interventions in 81 low- and middle-income countries could save the lives of millions of babies and improve long-term health outcomes.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 8, 2023

TIFR Hyderabad study provides crucial insights on designing efficient nano-filters

Researchers from TIFR Hyderabad create molecular strainers that can filter particles as small as hydrogen molecules, offering a new basis for designing more efficient filtration processes. The study's findings provide insights into the movement of molecules through sieves and open up avenues for further exploration in industries.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 8, 2023

Diabetes drugs associated with fewer adverse cardiac events in older veterans

A retrospective cohort study of U.S. veterans found that adding a GLP1 receptor agonist to diabetes treatment reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and heart failure hospitalization by about 20% compared to DPP4 inhibitors. The study's findings will aid clinicians in choosing a diabetes drug regimen for older patients.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2023

Canadian e-waste has tripled, new study finds

A new study by University of Waterloo researchers found that Canadian electronic waste (e-waste) has more than tripled in the last two decades, generating close to a million tons in 2020. E-waste generation per person has increased from 8.3 kg to 25.3 kg between 2000 and 2020.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateMay 8, 2023

A new twist on chirality: researchers extend the concept of directionality and propose a new class of materials

A team led by Taylor Hughes and Gaurav Bahl has experimentally realized a theoretical extension of chirality in two dimensions. They constructed a topological circuit network to explore new behaviors predicted by this extended chirality, which manifests as locking between a particle's flow direction and an arrow carried along with it.

U of M researchers develop technique for rapid detection of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Chronic Wasting Disease

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a new diagnostic technique called Nano-QuIC, which significantly improves protein-misfolding detection methods. The method reduces detection times from 14 hours to just four hours and increases sensitivity by a factor of ten.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

A key biological pathway for multiple sclerosis is uncovered by Mount Sinai researchers

Researchers at Mount Sinai have discovered a previously unknown way in which the brain and immune system interact in multiple sclerosis. They found that the inflammatory protein interleukin-3 (IL-3) coordinates this communication, inciting the recruitment of immune cells to the brain and exacerbating brain inflammation.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2023

The influence of AI on trust in human interaction

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg found that advanced AI systems can lead to excessive suspicion and damage relationships due to uncertainty about conversational partner's intentions. The study highlights the need for transparent AI design, with well-functioning voices that clearly indicate they are synthetic.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalComputer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW)·TypeObservational study·DateMay 8, 2023

Deaf-to-deaf weight loss program helps participants drop pounds

A specialized weight loss program for Deaf people, designed and led by Deaf individuals, resulted in significant weight loss among participants. The Deaf Weight Wise program focused on lifestyle changes, social support, and cultural relevance, leading to a higher retention rate and better outcomes compared to mainstream programs.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalObesity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 8, 2023

New decision aid to help with screening to prevent fragility fractures

A new interactive online Fragility Fracture Decision Aid can help clinicians and patients visualize their individual risk of fracture. The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends a "risk assessment–first" screening process for women 65 years and older, centered around shared decision-making with primary care providers.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateMay 8, 2023