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Science News for December 28, 2022


Human brain organoids implanted into mouse cortex respond to visual stimuli for first time

Researchers have successfully demonstrated that human brain organoids implanted in mice can establish functional connectivity and respond to external sensory stimuli, including visual cues. The breakthrough uses a combination of transparent graphene microelectrode arrays and two-photon imaging, enabling real-time observation of neural ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 2022

Singing supports stroke rehabilitation

A recent study at the University of Helsinki found that singing-based group rehabilitation can increase communication and speech production in stroke survivors, while also reducing social isolation. The study's results suggest that this type of rehabilitation could be a valuable addition to existing aphasia treatment protocols.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalBrain Communications·DateDec 28, 2022

Modelling the collective movement of bacteria

Researchers developed a mathematical model of bacterial movement that includes cell division and death. The model predicts bacteria can form colonies through travelling waves of concentrated 'packages' of bacteria.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateDec 28, 2022

Development of bio-friendly transparent temperature sensor technology that precisely measures temperature changes by light

Researchers developed a transparent temperature sensor that can measure rapid temperature changes in less than a few milliseconds. The sensor uses the thermoelectric effect and achieves high transparency, making it suitable for various photothermal bioengineering and medical applications.

Oncotarget | The role of pyrethroid derivatives in autophagy and apoptosis crosstalk signaling and potential risk for malignancies

Researchers found that pyrethroid derivatives induce autophagy, increase reactive oxygen intermediates, and alter membrane fluidity in human primary cells. These findings suggest a potential risk for malignancies and highlight the need for further investigation into pyrethroid-related cancer risks.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateDec 28, 2022

Changes in state-level cigarette sales during pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, state-level cigarette sales varied significantly across the US. The analysis found lower per capita sales in eight states and higher sales in 22 states compared to expected levels. These findings may be related to differences in state responses to the pandemic and tobacco control policies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 28, 2022

Good and bad feelings for brain stem serotonin

Researchers at Hokkaido University identify a nerve pathway in the brain stem involved in processing rewarding and distressing stimuli, opposing a previously identified pathway. This finding could lead to developing drug treatments for mental disorders like addiction and major depression.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 2022

Review on intrinsic electrocatalytic activity of transition metal nitrides on HER

Transition metal nitrides (TMNs) show high intrinsic electrocatalytic activities on hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), thanks to their unique electronic structures and properties. Recent strategies like facet, alloying, doping, vacancy, heterostructure, and hybridization have improved TMN performances.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 28, 2022

A glimpse of a cell’s sense of touch

Researchers reveal how cells use their sense of touch to make vital decisions during embryogenesis, including testing the surroundings and sensing tissue architecture. The study provides new insights into cell communication and may lead to the development of more robust synthetic tissues in tissue engineering.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 28, 2022