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Science News for May 31, 2022


New UCI-led study finds that your genetic sex determines the way your muscle “talks” to other tissues in your body

A new University of California, Irvine-led study identifies sex-specific circuits of muscle signaling to other tissues, highlighting differences in muscle function between males and females. The research sheds light on how muscle functions, such as exercise, promote healthy longevity, metabolism and improve cognition.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournaleLife·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

Investigational drug attacks synovial sarcoma, a rare type of tumor

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed an investigational drug that targets synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive type of cancer. The drug, ACXT-3102, works by interfering with the metabolic pathway of the tumor cells, causing them to die from the buildup of reactive oxygen species.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

Gemini north telescope helps explain why Uranus and Neptune are different colors

The Gemini North telescope has helped astronomers understand why Uranus and Neptune have different colors. Excess haze on Uranus builds up in its stagnant atmosphere, making it appear lighter than Neptune's. The team developed a single atmospheric model that matches observations of both planets.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Planets·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2022

Diabetes may weaken teeth and promote tooth decay

A new Rutgers University study finds that diabetes weakens tooth enamel and dentin, making teeth more susceptible to decay. Researchers induced Type 1 diabetes in mice and observed significant softening of enamel and dentin after 12 weeks.

SourceRutgers University·JournalArchives of Oral Biology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 31, 2022

How diverse microbial communities remain stable

A novel computational method estimates the level of connectivity in bacterial communities, revealing that species diversity is limited by interaction strength. Understanding these stability principles is essential for developing medical treatments and preserving the environment.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 31, 2022

The history of Lake Cahuilla before the Salton Sea

A new SDSU study used radiocarbon dating to determine the timing of the last seven periods of filling during the Late Holocene, revealing six earlier lake fills between 1618–1636 and 1486–1503. The research sheds light on both the history of human occupation in the area and its seismic past.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

World-first: A biomarker that can diagnose Parkinson’s disease

Researchers at Kobe University and Hiroshima University have developed a biomarker that can diagnose Parkinson's disease from blood serum samples. The 'P450 inhibition assay' uses 12 different human P450s to detect changes in metabolites, allowing for accurate diagnosis with an accuracy rate of 85-88%. This breakthrough could lead to f...

SourceKobe University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

The Sun is spinning round again

An international team developed a new theoretical model that solves part of the 'solar problem' by considering the Sun's rotation and magnetic fields. The results reproduce the concentration of helium and lithium in the Sun's outer layers, providing insights into stellar physics.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeNews article·DateMay 31, 2022

COVID-19 vaccine impact on chest CT of pneumonia in symptomatic patients

A single-center study found lower pneumonia frequency and severity in fully vaccinated patients compared to unvaccinated patients. The study included 467 patients who underwent chest CT during hospitalization for symptomatic COVID-19, with significant reductions in pneumonia frequency and severity observed in those fully vaccinated.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

Direct sound printing is a potential game-changer in 3D printing, according to Concordia researchers

Researchers at Concordia University have developed a new platform technology called direct sound printing (DSP), which uses soundwaves to produce new objects. The process creates sonochemical reactions in minuscule cavitation regions, generating pre-designed complex geometries that cannot be made with existing techniques.

SourceConcordia University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Discovery of a tripole winter precipitation change pattern around the Tibetan Plateau in the late 1990s

Researchers found a tripole winter precipitation change pattern in the late 1990s around the Tibetan Plateau, affecting eastern India, southern China, and northern regions. This pattern was triggered by changes in tropical Pacific SSTs and influenced by regional circulation patterns.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateMay 31, 2022

A world first: for the first time, a human liver was treated in a machine and then successfully transplanted

A team of researchers at University of Zurich successfully transplanted a human liver that was treated in a machine, paving the way for a potential solution to the global organ shortage. The liver was preserved for three days outside the body using a custom-made perfusion machine.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 31, 2022

Surprising new research finds women supporting women in business may backfire

A new study found that female-owned startups funded by female venture capitalists are two times less likely to get additional financing compared to those with male investors. Female founders who receive support from a woman were perceived as less competent and had their business ideas deemed less promising. In contrast, startups with b...

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalOrganization Science·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2022

Higher dengue rates found near Colombian public transit

A new Cornell University-led study found that low-income residents near new public transit stations in Medellin, Colombia experienced higher dengue fever rates. The researchers discovered that the proximity to these stations and socioeconomic status are significant factors in determining dengue incidence rates.

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 31, 2022

What will it take to transform obesity care for all?

The US healthcare system faces a significant challenge in providing high-quality, personalized obesity care due to lack of insurance coverage for effective medications and societal stigma. Recent efforts aim to address this issue through framework development and policy changes, which may lead to improved patient outcomes and cost savi...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPrimary Health Care Research & Development·TypeObservational study·DateMay 31, 2022

Death from alcohol-related liver disease could be prevented with early diagnosis and intervention, says new study

A new UK study found that people dying from alcohol-related liver disease had an average of 25 hospital interactions prior to their death, highlighting missed opportunities for intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent mortality from ARLD, which is a significant cause of deaths globally.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

Making colors out of gold and DNA

Researchers at Aalto University developed a method to produce colors using gold nanocylinders suspended in a gel, controlled by custom DNA molecules. The technique uses polarized light to transmit specific colors depending on the orientation of the nanoparticles.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 31, 2022

Scientists use AI to update data vegetation maps for improved wildfire forecasts

A new AI-powered technique updates fuel inventories to better predict fire behavior and spread. The method, developed at NCAR, uses satellite imagery to account for pine beetle damage and was tested on the 2020 East Troublesome Fire in Colorado.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalRemote Sensing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2022

All physicians should know the benefits of plant-based diets for these six health conditions

A new commentary emphasizes the importance of plant-based diets for six health conditions: weight loss, cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and COVID-19. Physicians should have basic knowledge of diet's benefits to improve patient outcomes.

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 31, 2022

Good news, bad news on risky medication use in nursing homes

A decade-long effort to reduce medication risks for nursing home residents with dementia has shown some positive results, but also unintended consequences. Fewer people are receiving antipsychotic and anti-anxiety drugs, which can raise the risk of falling or dying, but more are receiving alternative behavior-changing medications with ...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

University of Houston researchers identify alternative to lithium-based battery technology

Researchers at the University of Houston have identified an alternative to lithium-based battery technology for grid-level energy storage systems. They developed a novel form of oxysulfide glass electrolyte that enables reversible sodium plating and stripping at high current densities, potentially solving the challenges associated with...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Alzheimer’s disease blood test research at IU continues to advance the field with a community-based study

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine have made significant progress in developing blood tests for Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment. The latest study, published in Nature Medicine, explores the utility of phosphorylated tau (P-tau) blood biomarkers to aid in early detection and improve disease management.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 31, 2022

International study reveals factors contributing to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among healthcare providers

A cross-sectional survey of 23,000 adults in 23 countries found that 15% of healthcare providers reported vaccine hesitancy. Factors associated with hesitancy include lower income and younger age, but not efficacy concerns. Strategies to address hesitancy include training and clear information on vaccine safety and distribution.

SourceElsevier·JournalVaccine·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Size-tunable PEG-grafted copolymers as a polymeric nanoruler for passive targeting muscle tissues

Researchers developed size-tunable PEG-grafted copolymers to target muscle tissues by exploiting the blood-muscle barrier. The optimal size range for extravasation was found to be between 11-32 nm, with accumulation in skeletal muscles of Duchenne muscular dystrophy model mice being significantly higher than in normal mice.

SourceInnovation Center of NanoMedicine·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Eye-movement tracking glasses are used to evaluate mental stress in first naturalistic study of critical care nurses

A naturalistic study using eye-tracking technology found that intensive care unit nurses experience a higher level of mental workload, especially during the start of shifts, with shorter fixation and more sporadic gaze behavior in stressed nurses.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalHuman Factors The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society·DateMay 31, 2022

UCLA study finds strategy to degrade a key cancer cell-surface protein to invigorate immune attack on tumors

Researchers from the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a method to degrade tumor cell-surface PD-L1 using a small molecule activator of ITCH protein. This approach suppresses relapses of melanoma in animal models by reducing PD-L1 accumulation, allowing T-cells to target tumors more effectively.

Study of more than four million pregnant women and their offspring links exposure to antiseizure medication in pregnancy with increased risk of autism and intellectual disability

A study of over 4 million pregnancies found that exposure to valproate and topiramate during pregnancy doubles the risk of autism and intellectual disability in children. The largest such study confirms previous findings and highlights the need for informed decision-making on treatment options.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateMay 31, 2022

Cuttlefish camouflage may be more complex than previously thought

A new study suggests that European cuttlefish employ a complex neural system to create body patterns for camouflage, combining specific visual features and background cues. The research found that the animals' skin displays a range of 30 different pattern components, which are selectively activated in response to environmental stimuli.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Threat of bioaccumulation: New study investigates impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on bay scallops

Researchers evaluated the toxicological effects of BaP on bay scallops, finding increased immune response-related parameters with time at higher concentrations. The study suggests that BaP dampens the immune response of scallops and decreases their capacity to respond to oxidative stress.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalFish & Shellfish Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

New antibiotics could tackle drug-resistant tuberculosis bacteria

A new class of antibiotics has been discovered that is highly effective against drug-resistant tuberculosis, with low toxicity and a high level of safety. The new drugs, called PPs, are targeted at the PE_PGRS57 gene and show promise as an alternative to current treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Microgravity analog culture profoundly affects microbial infection process in 3-D human tissue models, a new study finds

A new study found that microgravity analog culture profoundly affects the microbial infection process in 3-D human tissue models. This is critical for ensuring astronaut health on extended space missions and sheds light on mysterious processes of infection on Earth.

SourceArizona State University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

A cloudless future? The mystery at the heart of climate forecasts

Researchers have developed a new method to include cloud physics in global climate models, which could lead to more accurate predictions. The approach involves breaking down the modeling problem into smaller, independent simulations that can capture finer-scale turbulent eddies and realistic shallow cloud formation.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2022

Signal detection theory may be useful for characterizing cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis

Kessler Foundation researchers use signal detection theory to characterize cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis. The study reveals an association between subjective 'state' fatigue, response bias, and brain activation patterns in both MS and control groups. This finding supports the use of signal detection metrics as an objective me...

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

UCLA neuroscientists use electrical stimulation to restore breathing in surgery patients undergoing opioid-based anesthesia

Researchers administered epidural electrical stimulation (EES) to patients with degenerative spine diseases undergoing surgery, improving respiratory control and depth of breathing. The study provides proof of principle for using EES as an alternative treatment to combat opioid-induced respiratory depression.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

This illusion, new to science, is strong enough to trick our reflexes

A new study reveals an 'expanding hole' illusion that deceives the brain, prompting a dilation reflex in the pupils and making us perceive more light. The illusion is perceived by approximately 86% of people and affects how our visual system anticipates and makes sense of the visual world.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Anti-Asian hate tweets during COVID-19

A University of Utah-led study found a surge in anti-Asian hate language on Twitter between January and March 2020, with clusters of hateful tweets spreading across the US. The researchers identified 15 geographic regions where anti-Asian hate was statistically higher than expected.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

How high-intensity interval training can reshape metabolism

A study published in eLife found that high-intensity interval training increases the production of proteins essential for energy metabolism and muscle contractions, as well as alters key metabolic proteins through acetylation. These changes may contribute to improved metabolic health.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 31, 2022

Humans pass on gut microbes to wildlife living in cities

A recent study published in eLife found that wildlife living in urban environments have picked up some gut bugs from humans, leading to a 'humanization' of their microbiota. The researchers analyzed gut microbiomes in distantly related vertebrates from urban and rural areas and discovered significant differences between the two.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateMay 31, 2022

Too much self-confidence can endanger health

A new study by Sonja Spitzer and Mujaheed Shaikh found that older people who overestimate their health visit the doctor less often, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, those who underestimate their health visit the doctor more frequently.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalThe Journal of the Economics of Ageing·DateMay 31, 2022

Nerve stimulation promotes resolution of inflammation

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve promotes healing in acute inflammation by shifting the balance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory molecules. This finding opens new avenues for treating inflammatory diseases, including autoimmune and cardiovascular conditions.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 31, 2022

Quest for elusive monolayers just got a lot simpler

Researchers at the University of Rochester have created an automated scanning device that detects monolayers with high accuracy, reducing processing time and costs. The system utilizes AI-powered image processing to analyze images of materials, identifying monolayers with near 100% accuracy in just nine minutes.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalOptical Materials Express·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Ultralight flexible perovskite solar cells

Researchers developed ultralight flexible perovskite solar cells using parylene-C films, exhibiting a remarkable PCE of 20.2%. The device's light weight and outstanding power-per-weight ratio demonstrate great promise for fabricating efficient and portable solar cells.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Materials·DateMay 31, 2022

Multi-spin flips and a pathway to efficient ising machines

A team of researchers from Waseda University developed a novel solution to efficiently solve complex optimization problems using Ising machines. Their hybrid algorithm reduces residual energy and reaches more optimal results in shorter time, increasing the machine's applicability across industries and sustainability practices.

SourceWaseda University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computers·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2022

A new data-driven model could provide a powerful policy planning tool to combat the nation's opioid crisis

A new data-driven simulation model, SOURCE, has been developed to help policymakers understand and address the nation's rampant opioid crisis. The model presents a detailed understanding of the crisis by capturing how interconnections between stages of prescription and illicit opioid use have evolved over time.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2022

Study finds conversion messages effective in reaching vaccine-hesitant populations

Researchers found conversion messages to be more effective than one-sided messages in convincing vaccine-hesitant individuals to get vaccinated. The study showed that messages sharing a personal story of someone changing their mind about vaccines increased pro-vaccine attitudes and behavioral intentions among high hesitancy participants.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalHealth Communication·TypeSurvey·DateMay 31, 2022

Suspected suicide attempts by poisoning among U.S. children rose 26.7% from 2015-2020, study finds

The number of US children suspected to have attempted suicide by poisoning increased by 26.7% between 2015 and 2020, according to researchers at the University of Virginia Health System. The majority of these cases involved girls, and the age group with the largest increase was children aged 10-12.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalClinical Toxicology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022

Pregnant moms and depression: Study links rising symptoms to kids’ behavioral issues

A seven-year study found that mothers with increasing levels of depression are at a greater risk of their children developing emotional, social, and academic problems. Children whose mothers experienced consistently high symptoms performed similarly to those with low symptoms on a task requiring focused attention.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateMay 31, 2022

Telemedicine, continuous glucose monitoring mitigated effects of pandemic on children with diabetes

A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that telemedicine and continuous glucose monitoring helped reduce the negative impacts of COVID-19 on children with Type 1 diabetes. Despite a decrease in office visits, disease management remained unchanged, but disparities persisted among minority and low-income patients.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateMay 31, 2022