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Science News for December 1, 2022


Commercial dishwashers destroy protective layer in gut

A new study by researchers at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research found that commercial dishwashers' rinse agents can damage the gut's epithelial barrier, leading to chronic diseases. The study used human intestinal organoids and analyzed the effect of detergents and rinse aids on gut cells.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 2022

Automated chemical reaction prediction: Now in stereo

Researchers demonstrate the expanded use of a computational method called AFIR, predicting pericyclic reactions with accurate stereoselectivity based on target product molecule information. The technique successfully handles molecules up to 52 atoms and predicts stereochemistry for reactions that break Woodward-Hoffman rules.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

A self-powered ingestible sensor opens new avenues for gut research

UC San Diego researchers have developed a self-powered ingestible biosensing system that provides continuous monitoring of gut metabolites, unlocking new understanding of intestinal health and its impact on human health. The battery-free sensor is powered by glucose and can measure glucose levels in the small intestine for up to 14 hours.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Step closer to tackling drug resistant parasites in Brazil

Scientists at the University of York have identified an enzyme that makes Leishmania infantum parasite resistant to miltefosine, a medication used to treat visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil. The discovery opens up potential for developing a blood test to predict patient outcome and tailor treatment to individual patients.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalEBioMedicine·DateDec 1, 2022

Study conducted at hospital in São Paulo state detects measles antibodies in only 75% of under-fifteens

A study conducted in Brazil reveals that only 75.8% of under-fifteen children in São Paulo have antibodies against measles, falling short of the ideal 94% target to prevent outbreaks. The finding is a warning sign that Brazilian children are not achieving herd immunity, making them susceptible to infection.

Children with type 1 diabetes miss more school, study suggests

A Cardiff University-led study found that children with type 1 diabetes who struggle to manage their blood glucose levels are absent for 15 more sessions per year, compared to 7 for those with the healthiest levels. These absences result in lower educational attainment, including five grades lower in GCSEs.

SourceCardiff University·JournalDiabetes Care·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2022

Adoption of front-of-pack nutrition warnings can help decrease obesity, cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes and some cancers in the Americas

A recent study led by the University of Nevada, Reno and the Pan American Health Organization suggests that the adoption of front-of-pack nutrition labeling can help reduce poor-nutrition related non-communicable diseases in the region. Improved FOPNL systems have been associated with improved diet quality and reduced risk of NCDs.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Americas·DateDec 1, 2022

Integrated platform promises to accelerate drug discovery process

Researchers developed an integrated approach to accelerate drug discovery by combining complex datasets from two screening platforms and next-generation metabolomics analysis. The new framework identified known compounds, confirmed mechanisms of action, and discovered novel compounds with unique biological signatures.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2022

UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima and Deputy Executive Director Matthew Kavanagh highlight inequalities in sex and gender, access to drugs and access to funding, as barriers to tackling AIDS and other pandemics

Inequalities in sex and gender, access to antiretroviral drugs, and inadequate funding hinder global efforts to combat AIDS and other pandemics. UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima and Deputy Director Matthew Kavanagh emphasize these disparities as critical obstacles to effective pandemic response

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·DateDec 1, 2022

Long COVID patients and those with other illnesses experience similar, negative lingering effects during the pandemic

Research suggests that long COVID patients share similar lingering negative effects on physical, mental, and social well-being with individuals who have other illnesses. The study found moderate-to-severe residual symptoms in 40% of COVID-positive participants and 54% of those who tested negative.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 2022

Growing evidence for the role of the immune system in Parkinson’s disease

The latest research evidence suggests that inflammation may play a causative role in Parkinson's disease. Multiple independent studies have provided evidence of the involvement of central and peripheral immune and inflammatory processes in PD, with increasing evidence suggesting an association with autoimmune conditions.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Parkinson’s Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 1, 2022

Study in mice suggests that expression of estrogen-related gene can impact post-menopausal breast cancer risk and prevention strategies

A study using a mouse model found that over-expression of the Esr1 gene increased the risk of developing estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in older women. Giving anti-hormonal drugs to mice with Esr1 over-expression lowered or reversed this risk.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Where did Omicron come from?

Researchers found viruses with Omicron-specific mutations in COVID-19 patients in six African countries two months before the variant was detected. The study suggests that Omicron emerged gradually, evolving from existing human immunity, and spreading rapidly across Africa before global detection.

Making sense of coercivity in magnetic materials with machine learning

Researchers developed a new approach to analyze coercivity in soft magnetic materials using machine learning and data science. The method condenses relevant information from microscopic images into a two-dimensional feature space, visualizing the energy landscape of magnetization reversal. This study showcases how materials informatics...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Researchers from Insilico Medicine, University of Copenhagen, and University of Chicago unravel molecular secrets hidden in premature aging diseases and cancer using AI

Scientists used AI-driven PandaOmics platform to analyze gene expression datasets from DNA repair diseases, identifying biomarkers associated with treatment response. The study focused on genes that stratify cancer patients by survival outcomes, providing potential targets for personalized therapies.

SourceInSilico Medicine·JournalCell Death and Disease·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2022

Women with elevated breast cancer risk could see mortality benefit from estrogen-blocking drugs

A new study suggests that estrogen-blocking drugs can not only prevent breast cancer but also reduce the risk of dying from the disease. Researchers used computer models to determine the lifetime benefits and harms of these treatments for women at high risk, finding a significant impact on mortality.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 1, 2022

When FMD hits a family, abdominal aortic aneurysms may too

Researchers discover a shared genetic basis between fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), with males more likely to develop AAA when a family member has FMD. The study suggests that screening for AAA in male relatives of patients with FMD may be beneficial, along with established guidelines.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalCirculation Genomic and Precision Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 1, 2022

News tips from UCLA Health: New hope for deadly brain cancer; Mating patterns vs genetics; Do housing interventions improve health? Air pollution and neurodegenerative disease

Researchers at UCLA Health have made significant breakthroughs in understanding deadly brain cancer and the role of housing interventions. A study found a cancer vaccine to be highly effective in treating glioblastoma multiforme, a nearly lethal brain cancer. Additionally, a survey highlighted the need for increased diversity in gastro...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Dr. AI, what’s my diagnosis?

A team of researchers developed a neural network that can analyze digital biopsy images to diagnose breast cancer, identifying the presence of PD-L1 protein. The AI system outperformed human pathologists in 70% of cases, with high accuracy rates and potential for personalized medicine.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 1, 2022

CityU develops two novel hydrogen production catalysts based on mineral gel and "crystalline-amorphous" dual-phase nano-aluminium alloy

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a new ultra-stable hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalyst based on two-dimensional mineral gel nanosheets. The catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity and long-term durability, with an overpotential of only 38.5 mV at 10 mA cm−2.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Fungi in sink drains act as ‘reservoirs for mould’

Research from the University of Reading found that sinks and P-traps harbor a surprising number of fungal organisms, including black moulds and relatives of baker's yeast. The study showed that these microorganisms can tolerate high temperatures, low pH, and low nutrients, making them a potential risk to health in certain environments.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalEnvironmental DNA·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Long-lasting insecticidal malaria nets’ biological effectiveness may be short-lived

Research suggests that long-lasting insecticidal malaria nets lost their effectiveness after just one year in Burundi, contradicting the recommended replacement every 3 years. The study found that malaria incidence rose again after two years, highlighting the need for continued epidemiological monitoring and improved resource allocation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Global Health·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

How can sex education training videos be more inclusive?

A new video training platform, SkillFlix for Educators, aims to improve educators' skills in facilitating inclusive sexuality education. The platform uses professional actors and film crew to simulate a classroom environment, incorporating LGBTQIA2S+ experts and actors into the production process.

SourceDfusion (United States)·JournalHealth Promotion Practice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 1, 2022

Aging | Glutaminase inhibitors rejuvenate human skin via clearance of senescent cells: a study using a mouse/human chimeric model

Researchers found that glutaminase inhibitor BPTES selectively eliminates senescent dermal fibroblasts, improving skin aging phenotype by increasing collagen density and cell proliferation. The study suggests BPTES as a potential therapeutic agent for skin aging, offering new treatment options.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Basho in the machine

A study led by Kyoto University researchers found that AI-generated haiku poems, created without human intervention, were often indistinguishable from those penned by humans. In contrast, human-AI collaboration produced more creative works.

SourceKyoto University·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Self-driven healthcare can improve health outcomes and reduce costs

A self-driven healthcare ecosystem supports individuals in managing their own health and wellbeing by recording and uploading data through a secure online portal. This approach aims to improve health outcomes while controlling costs and addressing social determinants of health.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateDec 1, 2022

Parents talk more to toddlers who talk back

Researchers at Duke University found that caregivers talk more to young children who start talking, regardless of gender, rather than solely due to girls having bigger vocabularies. Girls' vocabulary advantage may be attributed to factors other than parental language input, offering insights into language development.

SourceDuke University·JournalChild Development·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

A quality-conscious protein

Researchers from University of Cologne and Technical University of Munich discovered that the signal peptidase complex plays a crucial role in quality control of membrane proteins. The complex cleaves faulty membrane proteins to initiate their degradation, maintaining cellular function. This discovery has important implications for und...

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

Flowers show their true colors

A team of researchers at the University of Tokyo has discovered a newly found trait in the Causonis japonica flower, which changes color depending on its maturation cycle and then reverses. The pigments involved are related to nutrient-rich colorful vegetables, suggesting potential downstream applications in improving nutrient yields.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

Trouble sleeping? You could be at risk of type 2 diabetes

A study of over 1000 Australian adults found that people with trouble sleeping were more likely to have indicators of poor cardiometabolic health, including inflammatory markers, cholesterol, and body weight. Prioritizing a good night's sleep is crucial for maintaining good health, according to researcher Dr Lisa Matricciani.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

Researchers identify key brain cells in mice underlying stress-related behaviors

A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying stress-related behaviors, revealing that glutamate cells in the ventral tegmental area play a critical role. The research found that mice exposed to uncontrollable stressors exhibited more pronounced anxiety-like behavior, whereas those with c...

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 1, 2022

Medical marijuana legalization and opioid- and pain-related outcomes among patients receiving cancer treatment

A study found that medical marijuana legalization was associated with reduced opioid use and fewer pain-related hospitalizations among adults receiving cancer treatment. The results suggest potential benefits for patient safety and quality of life, but further investigation is needed to understand the nature of these associations.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateDec 1, 2022

Multiple sclerosis therapy improves gut flora

Researchers found that dimethyl fumarate treatment increased the proportion of beneficial gut bacteria and reduced pro-inflammatory types, which are associated with MS. The study suggests a potential connection between gut flora and clinical side effects, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalGut Microbes·DateDec 1, 2022

Experimental COVID-19 vaccine offers long-term protection against severe disease

A follow-up study found that the 2-dose vaccines still provided protection against lung disease one year after vaccination as infants. The adjuvanted protein vaccine candidate maintained higher levels of neutralizing antibodies and provided superior protection compared to the mRNA vaccine.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

An exotic interplay of electrons

An international team has discovered a quantum state in which atomic alignment does not order at ultracold temperatures, unlike usual behavior. This liquid-like quantum state could be used to develop highly sensitive quantum sensors, enabling precise registration of magnetic fields or temperatures.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 1, 2022

Adding to Europe’s HIV testing gap: Lack of testing recommendations in national guidelines on HIV indicator conditions

A systematic review of national clinical practice guidelines in Europe found that fewer than half include HIV testing recommendations for patients with medical conditions indicating HIV infection. This omission hinders efforts to stop the spread of HIV through timely diagnosis, affecting the lives of people living with HIV.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 1, 2022

New driver training developed at Cincinnati Children’s keeps teens with ADHD safer behind the wheel

A new driver training program has been shown to reduce the frequency of long, distracted glances away from the road among teen drivers with ADHD. The FOCAL+ training program improved teen drivers' attention to the roadway and reduced crash risk by 40% compared to a control group.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022

Protein mutation that causes Parkinson’s may prevent another neurodegenerative disease

Researchers have discovered that a specific mutation in the misfolding protein causing Parkinson's disease can also protect against multiple system atrophy (MSA), another fatal neurodegenerative disorder. The findings provide a promising lead for developing targeted treatments using personalized medicine approaches.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeObservational study·DateDec 1, 2022