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Science News for October 26, 2023


Products made of plastic falsely claimed to be biodegradable are on sale at Brazilian supermarkets

Researchers found that most allegedly biodegradable plastic items sold by Brazilian supermarkets are actually oxo-degradable plastics banned in several countries. The products cost 125% more than conventional alternatives and failed to meet minimum requirements for genuine biodegradability.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·DateOct 26, 2023

Research group wins ERC Synergy grant for development of revolutionary colorectal cancer screening and treatment system

A research group led by Professor Kaspar Althoefer has been awarded a €10m ERC Synergy grant to develop a revolutionary new system for screening and treating colorectal cancer. The system, which combines medical robotics, artificial intelligence, and minimally invasive surgery, aims to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

New quantum effect demonstrated for the first time: Spinaron, a rugby in a ball pit

Scientists at the University of Würzburg validated an alternate theory proposing the spinaron effect, where individual cobalt atoms exhibit perpetual motion and interact with electrons in a unique manner. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in magnetic information encoding and transportation, making IT more energy-efficient.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Antibody-drug conjugate helps patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer live longer, delaying disease progression

A UCLA-led study shows datopotamab deruxtecan, a Trop-2 directed antibody-drug conjugate, significantly improves progression-free survival in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment primarily benefits patients with non-squamous tumors, reducing disease progression and improving overall survival.

A new era for accurate, rapid COVID-19 testing

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a novel platform that combines nanopore technology with artificial intelligence to detect different coronavirus variants quickly. The platform was tested on 241 saliva samples and detected the Omicron variant 100% of the time.

SourceOsaka University·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2023

A safer alternative to CRISPR-Cas approaches?: Retroelement-based genome editing tools

Researchers propose retroelement-based gene editing as a safer alternative to CRISPR-Cas systems due to reduced risk of DNA double strand breaks and unwanted chromosomal modifications. This approach leverages endogenous mobile genetic elements, which can be programmed for targeted genomic engineering without generating DSB.

Does guideline-based treatment prevent racial disparities in cardiovascular outcomes?

A secondary analysis of the Women's Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation (WISE) cohort study found that black and non-black women with obstructive coronary artery disease had similar long-term cardiovascular outcomes. The study suggests that guideline-based treatment, including statins and ACE inhibitors, may reduce racial disparities in cardi...

SourceElsevier·JournalCanadian Journal of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Scientists find two ways that hurricanes rapidly intensify

New research identifies two modes of rapid intensification, one linked to favorable environmental conditions and warm surface waters, the other triggered by major bursts of thunderstorms far from the storm's center. These findings may lead to better understanding and prediction of catastrophic hurricanes.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalMonthly Weather Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 26, 2023

Abortion rates among commercially insured patients declined during the COVID-19 pandemic and did not rebound to pre-pandemic rates

A study by Brigham researchers found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp decline in surgical abortions for commercially insured patients, with no concurrent increase in medical abortions. The rate of surgical abortions remained below pre-pandemic levels through June 2022.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

New tool measures food security duration, severity

A new method, probability of food security (PFS), measures food insecurity likelihood and finds that a third of US households experienced at least temporary food insecurity. PFS identifies chronic and transitory food insecurity groups for more refined policy addressing.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateOct 26, 2023

Effective treatment for rare sight-threatening infection

A new international clinical trial found that a drug candidate is highly effective in treating Acanthamoeba keratitis with medical cure rates of 87%, reducing the risk of poor visual outcomes and surgery. The treatment, low concentration polihexanide (PHMB 0.08%), follows a novel and evidence-based protocol.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalOphthalmology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2023

Interacting polarons

Scientists generate multiple quasiparticles simultaneously in a quantum gas and observe their complex interactions, including attractive and repulsive behavior. Quantum statistics plays a crucial role in these interactions, which are essential for understanding fundamental mechanisms of nature.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Number of people in minimally conscious state after severe brain injury established for the first time

A nationwide study by Radboud University Medical Center found that approximately 32 patients in the Netherlands are in a minimally conscious state after severe brain injury. These patients were on average 45 years old and showed signs of consciousness, such as following simple commands or showing emotions.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalNeurology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 26, 2023

New research sheds light on early galaxy formation

A new computer simulation of the early universe aligns with JWST observations, showing no discrepancy with theoretical expectations. The 'Renaissance simulations' track dark matter clumps and galaxy formation, consistent with models that dictate cosmic physics.

SourceMaynooth University·JournalThe Open Journal of Astrophysics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 26, 2023

A superatomic semiconductor sets a speed record

Researchers at Columbia University have created the fastest and most efficient semiconductor yet, a superatomic material called Re6Se8Cl2. Excitons in this material can bind with phonons to create acoustic exciton-polarons that move faster than electrons in silicon, potentially leading to devices with speeds of femtoseconds.

SourceColumbia University·JournalScience·DateOct 26, 2023

"Recognition of human right to the environment can galvanize action and collaboration towards realization of sustainable development goals," eminent environmental lawyer says

The Human Right to Environment affirms the right to life itself, securing human health and wellbeing when humans protect nature. The recognition of this right drives governmental enforcement of environmental protection norms, requiring systemic change to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

SourceIOS Press·JournalEnvironmental Policy and Law·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Scientists show for the first time how many steps to take each day to reduce the risk of premature death: 8,000 – equivalent to walking 6.4 kms

An international study led by the University of Granada found that 8,000 steps daily significantly reduce premature death risk, equivalent to 6.4 km walking. The pace at which you walk also provides additional benefits, with faster walking associated with reduced mortality risk.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Iodine improves lithium thionyl chloride battery discharge performance and rechargeability

Researchers have incorporated molecular iodine into the SOCl2 battery electrolyte to increase discharge rate and enable efficient recharging. This breakthrough enables Li-SOCl2 batteries to be used in devices requiring low rates of energy discharge, increasing their practicality for routine energy storage.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 26, 2023

Breakthrough synthesis method improves solar cell stability

Researchers have developed a new synthesis method that controls the temperature and duration of the crystallization process to produce 2D halide perovskite layers with ideal thickness and purity. This breakthrough improves the stability and reduces the cost of solar cells, making them a viable option for emerging technologies.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Youngest children in class with ADHD as likely to keep diagnosis in adulthood as older pupils, find scientists

Children diagnosed with ADHD at a young age are just as likely to retain the diagnosis in adulthood as their older peers, according to a new study. The research, which examined data from over 6,500 patients globally, suggests that the youngest children in class are not more likely to lose the diagnosis over time.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

TUM professor develops energy-saving AI chip

The new AI chip uses ferroelectric transistors to store data and perform calculations, achieving a TOPS/W ratio of 885, twice as powerful as comparable chips. The goal is to use the chip for real-time applications such as deep learning and robotics, but security requirements and industry-specific criteria may delay its adoption.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Multimodal graphene-based e-textiles for the realization of customized e-textiles have been developed for the first time in the world

Researchers have developed graphene-based e-textiles with world-class electrical conductivity using ultrashort pulse laser processing. The technology enables environmentally friendly mass production of customized e-textiles, paving the way for industrial and military applications.

Mobile stroke units increase odds of averting stroke

A study published in Annals of Neurology found that receiving clot-busting drug treatment in a mobile stroke unit (MSU) increases the likelihood of averting strokes and complete recovery compared to standard hospital emergency care. Patients treated by an MSU had faster treatment times, with nearly one-third recovering within 24 hours.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateOct 26, 2023

The term “antimicrobial resistance” has little meaning to the public and should be renamed

A study by Dr Eva Krockow found that existing terms for antimicrobial resistance, such as 'antimicrobial resistance' and 'AMR', are not taken seriously enough, failing to evoke risk perceptions. The researchers suggest renaming the term to a more memorable one that can effectively convey the severity of the issue.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCommunications Medicine·TypeNews article·DateOct 26, 2023

The ego-consciousness of the feathered fowl?

A study published in PLOS ONE found that roosters can recognize their mirror image and respond accordingly. The researchers tested 58 roosters and found that they emitted alarm calls when seeing themselves in the mirror, but not when seeing a conspecific. This suggests that roosters may have some level of self-awareness.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Most forms of exercise are overwhelmingly safe – but don’t ignore the dangers

A five-year study found that most sports and exercise are overwhelmingly safe, with injuries being rare. Fitness activities like running, golf, and dance classes have the lowest injury rates, while sports like football have a moderate risk of injury, with motorsports and gliding carrying significantly higher dangers.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalInjury Prevention·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

A potentially cheaper and 'cooler' way of hydrogen transport

Kyushu University researchers have developed a new material that can store hydrogen energy for up to three months at room temperature, using an inexpensive element like nickel. This innovation could potentially reduce the cost of future compounds and contribute to the transition to alternative energy sources.

SourceKyushu University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

A new “species” of legal subject: AI-led corporate entities, requiring interspecific legal frameworks

The American Association for the Advancement of Science suggests that AI-operated corporate entities should be recognized as a new 'species' in the legal system. This would involve developing interspecific legal frameworks to address rights and obligations, allowing AI systems to function autonomously without human oversight.

How adults understand what kids are saying

Researchers used computational models to analyze thousands of hours of transcribed audio recordings of children and adults interacting. The findings suggest that adults' ability to make context-based interpretations provides crucial feedback for babies acquiring language. These interpretations are critical for understanding what small ...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateOct 26, 2023

Genomic screening to identify iron overload encourages patients to seek treatment and condition management, study finds

A Geisinger Health System study found that genomic screening for hereditary hemochromatosis type 1 can identify underdiagnosed cases and encourage treatment. The screening program resulted in 69% of those notified proceeding with a lab test, and 69% of those showing iron overload beginning subsequent treatment.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 26, 2023

Marine protected areas and climate change

A comprehensive framework for designing marine protected areas has been developed by an international team of scientists. The guidelines prioritize habitat persistence and coastal corridors to help vulnerable species such as turtles, sharks, and lobsters survive climate change. By connecting habitats fractured by human development and ...

SourceStanford University·JournalOne Earth·DateOct 26, 2023

Right-wing social media benefited from high-profile suspensions on mainstream platforms

A new study by researchers at City, University of London found that alt-tech platforms like Gettr are increasingly important for facilitating far-right political discussions. The study shows that users banned from Twitter are up to six times more active on Gettr, sharing toxic content and aligning with far-right news outlets.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Analysis finds diversity on the smallest scales in sulfur-cycling salt marsh microbes

Researchers analyzed DNA sequenced datasets of microbes collected from salt marsh sites to study the relationship between cordgrasses and sulfur-cycling microbes. They found diverse microbial communities with varying combinations of genes for sulfate reduction and sulfur oxidation, allowing them to thrive in salt marsh sediments.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Financial insecurity common among frontline healthcare workers during COVID-19

A recent study led by UNC Greensboro researcher Mathieu Despard found that one-third of frontline healthcare workers experienced food insecurity, with even those earning over $75k facing housing hardship. The study highlights the importance of benefits in mitigating financial insecurity among healthcare workers.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Greensboro·JournalCompensation & Benefits Review·TypeSurvey·DateOct 26, 2023

Is red meat intake linked to inflammation?

A Baylor College of Medicine study analyzed metabolite data from over 4,000 adults and found no direct link between red meat consumption and markers of inflammation. The researchers suggest that body weight may be the driver of increased systemic inflammation instead.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Genomic insights for prenatal screening - The advantages of low-pass genome sequencing

A new study validates Low-Pass Genome Sequencing (LP GS) as a robust and cost-effective alternative to Chromosomal Microarray Analysis (CMA) for prenatal diagnosis. LP GS detects six additional Copy Number Variations (CNVs) in cases with negative CMA results, highlighting the importance of sequencing depth in its detection sensitivity.

SourceBGI Genomics·JournalJournal of Medical Genetics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Venus had Earth-like plate tectonics billions of years ago, study suggests

A new study suggests that Venus once had plate tectonics similar to those on early Earth, which could have supported microbial life. The researchers used atmospheric data and computer modeling to show that the planet's current atmosphere and surface pressure would only be possible with an early form of plate tectonics.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 26, 2023

Treating amphetamine use disorder with stimulants: an encouraging new approach

A new meta-analysis suggests that high-dose prescription psychostimulants like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine can lower cravings and reduce stimulant use in people with amphetamine-type stimulant use disorder. The study analyzed ten randomized controlled trials and found that effects may increase with higher dosage.

SourceSociety for the Study of Addiction·JournalAddiction·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Genetics links endometriosis and IBS

A study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals that endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) share common genetic risk factors. This finding explains why patients with one condition may also develop the other, highlighting the need for increased awareness and early diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023