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Science News for October 26, 2022


Autistic people are more likely to experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy

A new study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that autistic parents are three times more likely to report prenatal depression and anxiety compared to non-autistic parents. The research highlights the need for effective mental health screening and support for autistic individuals during pregnancy.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·TypeSurvey·DateOct 26, 2022

Novel bioink capable of constructing physiological blood vessels

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital developed a novel bioink capable of constructing functional and mechanically strong blood vessels. The bioink enables bioprinting of conduits with key physiological characteristics similar to native vessels, potentially serving as vascular models for grafts in surgeries and disease studies.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Engineers light the way to nerve-operated prosthetics of the future

Researchers at the University of New South Wales have developed optrodes that can measure neural activity using light, potentially revolutionizing medical technologies like nerve-operated prosthetics. The new approach addresses long-standing issues with impedance mismatch and crosstalk, paving the way for more complex neural networks.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalJournal of Neural Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

How severe is the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 subvariant compared with earlier variants?

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital analyzed data from March 2020 to June 2022 to assess the severity of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 subvariant compared to earlier variants. The study found that BA.2 was associated with lower mortality rates and reduced need for hospitalizations, invasive ventilation, and intensive care admissions.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2022

Fighting tumors with magnetic bacteria

Researchers controlled magnetic bacteria to cross blood vessel walls and infiltrate tumor tissue, delivering liposomes with fluorescent dye to demonstrate their ability to carry therapeutic agents. This approach may revolutionize bacterial cancer therapy by increasing efficacy and reducing side effects.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Hemophilia: Training the immune system to be tolerant

A study by the University of Bonn elucidated an important immune mechanism crucial for making hemophilia treatment effective. The researchers found that regulatory T cells can activate a self-destruct button on B cells against factor VIII, leading to its tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Urine could play key part in future biotech systems

Researchers have developed a method that uses urea from urine to trigger the production of proteins in bacteria, replacing costly 'inducer' molecules. The new system produces similar quantities of protein as standard methods while being cheaper and easier to use, opening up new avenues for biotech industries.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNew Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Aluminous silica: A major water carrier in the lower mantle

Researchers have discovered that aluminous silicas play a significant role in transporting water into the Earth's deep interior. These minerals can hold large amounts of water even at high temperatures, challenging previous assumptions about the water cycle in the mantle.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Pressure chamber therapy has been found to be effective in the functional improvement of autism

A Tel Aviv University study shows that pressure chamber therapy can improve social skills and reduce neuroinflammation in the autistic brain. The treatment, which involves high-pressure chambers with oxygen enrichment, was found to increase blood and oxygen supply to the brain, leading to improved brain function and social behavior.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateOct 26, 2022

Controlling gut flora can reduce mortality in critically ill patients on life support

A randomized clinical trial found that applying topical antibiotics to the upper digestive tract can improve survival rates in mechanically ventilated intensive care patients. The study, published in JAMA, also showed a significant reduction in new hospital-acquired infections.

SourceGeorge Institute for Global Health·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2022

Assessing the environmental impact of future ‘Higgs factories’

Researchers assessing the environmental impact of future 'Higgs factories' propose a new figure of merit: carbon footprint per Higgs boson produced. Circular colliders emerge as a promising option due to their excellent physics capability and energy efficiency, which could significantly reduce the environmental cost.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateOct 26, 2022

Study published in Endocrinology by Heritage College researchers finds disruption of the growth hormone receptor gene in adipose tissue results in increased lifespan in mice

Researchers discovered that stopping GH activity in fat cells improves health and increases lifespan in mice. The study found approximately 23% lifespan extension due to GHR disruption, with improved insulin sensitivity and reduced frailty scores.

SourceOhio University·JournalEndocrinology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

PACS, EHR tool identifies incomplete, clinically necessary follow-up imaging

A study published in American Journal of Roentgenology found that a PACS tool improved completion rates of clinically necessary follow-up imaging. The tool identified socioeconomically disadvantaged patients at increased risk of failure, and referrer agreements played a crucial role in improving recommendations.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 26, 2022

New gene editing strategy could lead to treatments for people born with inherited diseases of the immune system

Researchers have developed a pioneering gene editing strategy that can repair faulty genes in immune cells, offering new hope for patients with conditions like CTLA-4 insufficiency. The technique uses CRISPR/Cas9 to target and correct the faulty gene, preserving important regulatory mechanisms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

A pocket full of water molecules – how actin filaments drive the cell’s motion

Researchers used cryo-EM to obtain high-resolution images of actin filaments in three states, revealing the movement of hundreds of water molecules and their role in ATP hydrolysis. The study provides new insights into the assembly and aging of actin filaments, potentially leading to therapeutic applications.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Effects of low-carbohydrate dietary intervention on A1C

A 6-month randomized clinical trial found that a low-carbohydrate diet intervention resulted in larger reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels compared to usual diet among adults with elevated untreated HbA1c. The study suggests that this dietary approach may be useful for preventing and treating type 2 diabetes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 26, 2022

Simple machine may pave the way for more powerful cell phones and WIFI

Scientists from Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have created a machine that uses surface tension of water to grab and manipulate microscopic objects, enabling nanoscopic manufacturing. The device can braid micrometer-scale fibers of synthetic material Kevlar, opening doors for high-frequency conductors.

Contact tracing data sheds light on COVID-19 spread in New York City

A study using contract tracing data in New York City found the city's program was efficient, producing data that informs neighborhood-level interventions like vaccination and reactive restriction. The researchers also identified large heterogeneity in reported close contacts and secondary infections across neighborhoods.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2022

Automatic text simplification: efficacy in the foreign language classroom

A study by Professor Dennis Murphy Odo found that automatic text simplification (ATS) software makes authentic materials more comprehensible for L2 learners with high reading proficiency. However, the tool's effectiveness is limited for learners with lower reading proficiencies. The researcher suggests that ATS tools need to be further...

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Linguistics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Smoking and vaping had overlapping adverse health effects, dual product use may be worse

Two studies found that cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapor have similar cardiovascular effects due to airway irritation. This irritation can lead to vascular damage and impaired blood vessel function. The research suggests that dual product use may be worse than single product use, highlighting the need for stricter regulations.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·DateOct 26, 2022

New research shows link between workplace bullying and conspiracy beliefs

A new study by the University of Nottingham reveals that people who experience workplace bullying are more likely to engage in conspiracy theorizing. The research found that both bullying and conspiracy theories share similar psychological factors, such as feelings of paranoia. This can lead to a vicious cycle where victims of bullying...

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalSocial Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

New class of porous metal nanoparticles will give rise to new capabilities in biomolecular absorption, chemical sensing and separations

Researchers from Northwestern University have synthesized open-channel superlattices with pores ranging from 10 to 1,000 nanometers in size. The new findings will enable the use of these colloidal crystals in molecular absorption and storage, separations, chemical sensing, catalysis, and optical applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateOct 26, 2022

Yes, people with autism have empathy

A new concept, empathic disequilibrium, suggests a balance between cognitive and emotional empathy is needed for social functioning in individuals with autism. Research found those diagnosed with autism exhibited higher rates of empathic disequilibrium, which may hinder some social interactions.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAutism Research·TypeObservational study·DateOct 26, 2022

Drs. Harriette Van Spall and Erica Gunderson to be honored with the Dr. Nanette K. Wenger Research Goes Red® Award

The American Heart Association honored Drs. Harriette Van Spall and Erica Gunderson with the 2022 Dr. Nanette K. Wenger Research Goes Red Award for their groundbreaking study on sex-specific clinical outcomes of heart failure patients. The research found that women experienced improved outcomes after receiving transitional care service...

UMD research shows three distinct attitudes toward improving stormwater management

A University of Maryland study found that stakeholders agree on the need for a decentralized approach to stormwater management but diverge on responsibility. Two groups believe stormwater poses a public threat, while the third sees it as an underutilized resource that can be managed with technology.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of Environmental Planning and Management·TypeSurvey·DateOct 26, 2022

At risk for diabetes? Cut the carbs, says new study

Researchers at Tulane University have discovered that following a low-carbohydrate diet can lead to reduced hemoglobin A1c levels and improved fasting glucose levels among individuals with unmedicated diabetes and prediabetes. The study suggests that a low-carb diet may be a useful approach for preventing and treating Type 2 diabetes.

SourceTulane University·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2022

How Imperfections can actually improve alloys

Using transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) and twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP), researchers design metastable alloys that can overcome the strength-ductility trade-off. The resulting materials are self-strengthening, making them suitable for applications such as earthquake construction, naval ships, and aerospace.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 26, 2022

Deep learning-based virtual staining of tissue facilitates rapid assessment of breast cancer biomarker

A recent study published in BME Frontiers developed an AI-based approach that rapidly transforms autofluorescence images into virtual histological images for accurate HER2 assessment. This computational staining process takes only a few minutes per sample and does not require expensive facilities or toxic chemicals.

SourceBMEF (BME Frontiers)·JournalBME Frontiers·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Elevated levels of arsenic and other metals found in Nevada's private wells

A recent study published in Science of The Total Environment found that many household wells in Nevada are contaminated with heavy metals such as arsenic, which can cause adverse health effects. The study suggests that frequent testing and improved treatment systems are necessary to ensure safe drinking water for rural communities.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeObservational study·DateOct 26, 2022

Tracking mental health over the COVID-19 pandemic

A new study found that psychological factors such as coping abilities play a significant role in individuals' risk or resilience to mental health disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brain connectivity within specific brain networks also predicted individual vulnerability to anxiety and depression symptoms.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2022

New research shows how octopuses may have evolved

A team of researchers from Japan sequenced the draft genome of Argonauta argo and discovered that the species' egg case protein-coding genes were not used to form shells in distantly related species. This suggests that the eggs case evolved independently, rather than being a modified shell.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateOct 26, 2022

Cancer drug could potentially be used against malaria

Researchers found that sapanisertib can kill the malaria parasite at several stages during its life cycle, including in the liver and red blood cells. The study's findings offer new hope against a disease that kills over half a million people annually.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

How do Canadians feel about new law that assumes consent for deceased organ donation?

A recent study examined public comments from Canadians regarding deemed consent legislation, which automatically assumes consent for deceased organ donation. The study found that while some people supported the legislation, others raised concerns about individual autonomy and potential errors. The authors emphasize the importance of pu...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 26, 2022

American Society of Anesthesiologists honors James D. Grant, M.D., MBA, FASA, with its Distinguished Service Award

The American Society of Anesthesiologists presented Dr. James D. Grant with the Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to physician leadership, education, and advocating for patient safety. Dr. Grant has also held various positions within ASA and other organizations, including president and member of the Board of Directors.

Report by OSU, international scientists says Earth is ‘unequivocally’ in midst of climate emergency

A report by Oregon State University and international scientists reveals that the Earth's vital signs have worsened, with 16 of 35 planetary indicators at record extremes. This includes increasing frequency of extreme heat events, rising global tree cover loss, and a greater prevalence of the mosquito-borne dengue virus.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBioScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2022

Researchers identify specific alterations in the BRAF gene that may affect response to treatment and survival in adult brain cancers

The study found that BRAF alterations, particularly Class I mutations like v600E, are associated with improved overall survival in adults with glioma. However, the effectiveness of targeted therapies depends on the specific type and combination of genetic alterations driving the cancer.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 26, 2022

Astronomy: Observation puzzles researchers

Researchers investigated open star clusters, finding they dissolve faster than predicted by Newton's laws. The team developed a new method to count stars in tidal tails, revealing a significant difference in the number of stars between the front and rear tails.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 26, 2022

AATS announces the publication an Expert Consensus Documents (ECD) in the January issue of JTCVS on “The Use of Mechanical Circulatory Support in Lung Transplantation”

The American Association for Thoracic Surgery published an Expert Consensus Document recommending use of mechanical circulatory support before, during, and after lung transplantation. The guidelines include recommendations for veno-venous ECMO and central veno-arterial ECMO.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 26, 2022

Autistic women have increased risk of mental illness

Researchers found that autistic women are more vulnerable to psychiatric conditions and hospitalization than men, with a higher risk of depression, anxiety disorders, and self-harm. The study suggests that healthcare needs to be expanded for young adults, especially autistic women, to detect mental illness in time.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateOct 26, 2022

The brain cells needed for fever

Researchers at Linköping University identified the brain cells necessary for a fever reaction in mice, finding that prostaglandin production in these cells is both necessary and sufficient for triggering a fever response. This breakthrough sheds light on the body's defense mechanism against infection and inflammation.

SourceLinköping University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

What predicts parents' desire for more children? And do heterosexual parents want more children than same-sex parents?

A new study by Dr. Geva Shenkman Lachberg found that there are no differences between same-sex parents and heterosexual parents when it comes to their desire for more children. The ideal number of children in families surveyed was around three, similar to the national average.

SourceReichman University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022

Improving HIV health outcomes for Black men who have sex with men

A multi-year initiative aimed at improving HIV health outcomes for Black men who have sex with men found improvements in retention in care, receipt of HIV prescriptions, and viral suppression. The project used evidence-based approaches to link, engage, and retain Black MSM with HIV in medical care and supportive services.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Patient Care and STDs·TypeCase study·DateOct 26, 2022

Women healthcare workers faced heightened moral distress during pandemic: study

A recent study by Simon Fraser University researcher Julia Smith found that women healthcare providers experienced 'double distress' in both their workplaces and homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers listened to stories of women participants to understand the challenges they faced, including inadequate staffing, lack of c...

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalNursing Ethics·TypeSurvey·DateOct 26, 2022