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Science News for November 2, 2022


How magnetism could help explain Earth’s formation

Researchers analyzed fluid dynamics and electrically conducting fluids to conclude the Earth must have been magnetized before or as a result of its formation. This discovery could help narrow down theories on the Earth-Moon system, with implications for future research.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2022

Enhanced observations for better forecasting tropical cyclones over the South China sea

The campaign boosted confidence in forecasting similar events with simultaneous satellite, aircraft, and balloon-based observational data. The results showed positive impacts on track and intensity forecasts of TC Mulan, as well as improved rainfall forecasts along the South China coast.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateNov 2, 2022

Brain changes in autism are far more sweeping than previously known, UCLA-led study finds

A new UCLA-led study found comprehensive brain-wide changes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, refining scientists' understanding of how the condition progresses. The study analyzed gene expression across 11 cortical regions, revealing strong evidence that RNA changes in the brain are likely the cause of ASD.

Revealed: oldest star clusters in the universe

A team of astronomers used the James Webb Telescope to identify five ancient globular clusters, potentially containing the first and oldest stars in the universe. The clusters were formed close to the Big Bang, offering insights into star formation and galaxy evolution.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2022

How cells find the right partners

Researchers found that the Eya protein regulates cell contact behavior, allowing for self-organization of epithelial cells with nurse cells. This mechanism enables complex development processes, including egg chamber formation and sperm cell development, in Drosophila.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 2022

The exceptional case of a person who has survived 12 tumors opens up new avenues for early diagnosis and immunotherapy in cancer, say CNIO researchers

Researchers discover exceptional individual with 12 tumors, shedding light on early detection methods and immune system response. Single-cell analysis technology shows promise in identifying cells with tumor potential before symptoms appear.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalScience Advances·TypeCase study·DateNov 2, 2022

Nose swabs may distinguish babies with RSV needing longer intensive care

Researchers used nose swabs from children with RSV in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) to examine gene expression. They found that some children had greater damage to nasal cells, correlating to longer PICU stays. This discovery could lead to a diagnostic test to predict which infants will require a longer stay.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateNov 2, 2022

Flu vaccine lowers risk of stroke

Researchers at the University of Calgary found that vaccination against influenza significantly lowers the risk of stroke among adults. The study analyzed health records of over four million Albertans and showed that the risk of stroke was reduced in all age groups, not just those at high risk.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2022

Neuroscientific evidence induces study participants to recommend longer sentences for convicted criminals if they think prison is for rehabilitation or public protection, but shorter sentences if prison is considered punishment

Study participants recommend longer sentences for rehabilitation or public protection, but shorter sentences if punishment is the primary focus. The findings highlight the importance of considering the underlying motivations behind incarceration in sentencing decisions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 2, 2022

DNA 'nanotransporters' to treat cancer

Researchers have designed DNA-based transporters that can deliver precise concentrations of drugs, potentially improving cancer treatment. These nanotransporters can also be programmed to prolong the effect of a drug and minimize its dosage, reducing side effects.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2022

Many middle-aged adults wary of taking part in studies of dementia prevention drugs

A new study found that only 12% of middle-aged adults are willing to participate in dementia prevention drug trials, citing concerns over the risks involved. The study suggests prioritizing those with a family history or perceived personal risk for dementia and communicating about trial safety could increase participation.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer s Disease·TypeSurvey·DateNov 2, 2022

NIH grant funds HIV research

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are awarded a $3.5 million NIH grant to examine how alcohol use alone or in combination with fentanyl affects HIV medications, including PrEP medication. The study aims to determine metabolite signatures and pharmacological biomarkers of PrEP in HIV-negative populations.

November issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover genetic underpinnings of psychiatric illness, use of acute mental health care by children and more

The American Journal of Psychiatry focuses on the genetic underpinnings of psychiatric illnesses, while Psychiatric Services reports on community-based treatment programs for people with serious mental illness. The latest Focus journal issue explores borderline and other personality disorders.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 2, 2022

Access to media amplifies negative effects of terrorism on school enrolment in Kenya

New research by Lancaster University and Bocconi University finds that Kenyan parents with access to mass media believe the risk of dying in a terrorist attack is 12 times larger than actual rates. This leads to children being kept out of schools, affecting their education and future earnings.

SourceLancaster University·JournalJournal of the European Economic Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2022

Traumatized communities

Researchers developed NETfacts to address severe trauma in communities, combining individual treatment with collective process. The results show that both NET and NETfacts significantly reduced posttraumatic stress disorder and depression, as well as stigma and violence.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2022

Vaccine uptake remains low among at-risk Canadians

Researchers from McGill University found that pneumococcal vaccination uptake is low among adults at high risk in Canada. Despite the importance of pneumococcal vaccination to prevent pneumonia and other forms of pneumococcal disease, many people missed opportunities for vaccination.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2022

$9.42M federal agreement aims to develop non-invasive methods of detecting and preventing radiation exposures

Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center are developing non-invasive biomarkers for radiation exposure using Raman spectroscopy and mass spectrometry-based methods. The project aims to improve early detection and risk assessment of radiation exposure, which can lead to serious health problems and delayed consequences.

The era of digital olfaction science is now – the smell of digital will be highlighted during the 7th International Meeting of the Digital Olfaction Society this November in Tokyo

The 7th International Meeting of the Digital Olfaction Society will showcase innovations and products in digital olfaction. Several demonstrations, including those by Sony and Ricoh, will be displayed, highlighting progress in olfactory measurement, testing, and transmission.

Researchers studying new way to heal diabetic wounds by activating “hidden” mechanism in the body

Researchers have discovered a way to reactivate a fetal repair pathway in adults to improve healing of diabetic wounds. The study used tissue nanotransfection technology to deliver a gene that activates the protein NPGPx, which is active in fetuses but largely inactive in adults and absent in diabetic adults.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateNov 2, 2022

IPK researchers use Cas9 gene scissors to establish new resistances of winter barley to viruses

A research team led by the IPK Leibniz Institute has identified a new resistance mechanism for winter barley against two major viruses, BaYMV and BaMMV. By targeting the PDIL5-1 gene using Cas9 gene scissors, the researchers were able to establish novel resistances in barley varieties.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateNov 2, 2022

Less gym time, same results: Why ‘lowering’ weights is all you need to do

New research from Edith Cowan University found that lowering weights sees the same improvements as lifting, despite only doing half as many reps. This focus on eccentric muscle contractions can allow people to spend their time exercising more efficiently and improve strength and size of muscles without needing to go to the gym.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEuropean Journal of Applied Physiology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2022

A new tool for estimating people’s total exposure to potentially harmful chemicals is developed by Mount Sinai researchers

A new metric estimates cumulative exposure to PFAS chemicals, enabling comparisons across studies and applications. The calculator takes into account patterns of exposure to multiple chemicals, providing a robust tool for biomonitoring and disease assessment.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateNov 2, 2022

ACC, AHA issue aortic disease guideline

The new guideline covers key aspects of aortic disease diagnosis and management, including surgical intervention considerations, consistent imaging practices, genetic and familial screenings. The ACC and AHA emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary team in providing optimal care for patients with aortic disease.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 2, 2022

“Global Jukebox” performing arts database now publicly available

The Global Jukebox, an online tool for exploring music and performing arts from around the world, has made its dataset and data available to the public. The database includes 5,776 recordings representing 1,026 societies, with detailed musical style categorization data and additional features such as breath management and instrumentation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 2, 2022

Why fish look down when they swim

Researchers used simulations of zebrafish brain, environment, and spatially-varying swimming behavior to conclude that fish look down to understand their surroundings' motion. This adaptive behavior helps fish avoid being swept away by turbulent water.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 2, 2022

The guardian of the (epi-)genome

A research team led by Ivano Amelio found that the protein p53 acts as a key to maintaining genomic stability, preventing cancer-promoting mutations. Without p53, cells become more aggressive and prone to acquire genomic instability.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 2, 2022

Trade agreements can ease the pain of a possible global recession

A new study by the University of California School of Global Policy and Strategy found that credible trade agreements help U.S. firms invest in new export markets during economic downturns. The research suggests that trade agreements can mitigate the impact of a global recession, particularly for industries dependent on exports.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of International Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 2, 2022

New 3D model shows how cadmium exposure may affect heart development

Researchers developed a 3D organoid model that mimics human heart development, revealing how low levels of cadmium can block cardiomyocyte formation and induce heart abnormalities. The study supports decades of toxicology research on environmental exposures contributing to human diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2022

New study reviews evidence of racism in emergency medicine, sets research agenda

A literature review of existing research identified key areas for future research on race and racism in emergency medicine. The study's findings inform a research agenda aimed at developing evidence-informed interventions to address racial health inequities, including access, treatment, and provider experience.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 2, 2022

Obesity drug helps teens lose weight, study finds

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that semaglutide, an approved obesity drug for adults, also helps adolescents with obesity lose weight and have healthier hearts. After 68 weeks, 72.5% of participants who received semaglutide had achieved at least 5% weight loss compared to just 17% on placebo.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 2, 2022

Intensified meat production in response to climate change would bring short-term rewards, long-term risks

A new analysis finds that intensified meat production can bring short-term rewards, such as decreased deforestation, but long-term risks, including the spread of zoonotic diseases like avian influenza. The study suggests that shifting to plant-rich options and supporting forest protections may be necessary to mitigate these risks.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience Advances·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 2, 2022

Long COVID and pulmonary fibrosis better understood thanks to innovative techniques

A multidisciplinary team of researchers has uncovered the mechanism that modifies the connective tissue of the lung in severe COVID-19, revealing a mosaic-like pattern to the damage. The study, published in The Lancet – eBioMedicine, identifies specific blood markers and vascular changes that can predict post-COVID pulmonary fibrosis.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalThe Lancet·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 2, 2022

What a ‘cat friendly’ veterinary experience looks like

The new guidelines aim to improve the cat's emotional experience during veterinary visits. They provide practical tips on creating a more reassuring environment, such as minimizing visual stimulation and using synthetic feline pheromones. The guidance also emphasizes the importance of remaining 'cat-focused' during interactions.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery·DateNov 2, 2022

Control hub for skin inflammation discovered

Researchers at the University of Bonn have identified a new signaling pathway that triggers inflammatory responses in the skin after UV damage. This pathway involves the activation of p38 molecularly modifying NLRP1, a critical switch for inflammation, and initiates the assembly of inflammasomes.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 2, 2022

Extracellular viscosity linked to cancer spread

Researchers found that cancer cells can migrate faster in higher viscosity environments due to the formation of denser actin networks and cooperative signaling pathways. This discovery provides a new framework for understanding metastasis and may lead to the identification of potential targets to combat cancer spread.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateNov 2, 2022

Demonstration of feasible waste plastic pyrolysis through decentralized biomass heating business model

Researchers from Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) demonstrate a feasible waste plastic pyrolysis model, increasing profitability and reducing CO2 emissions compared to centralized processes. The study also found significant decreases in transportation costs and related emissions.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateNov 2, 2022

New model can detect long-COVID’s effects using simple, 2D chest X-rays

Researchers developed a contrastive learning model that can detect compromised lung function in long-COVID patients from 2D chest X-ray images. The model successfully identified small airways disease and separated it from more advanced respiratory issues, offering an affordable diagnosis option for clinics without CT scanning equipment.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalFrontiers in Physiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 2, 2022