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Science News Archive 2023 - Page 396


Page 396 of 444

Cinema has helped ‘entrench’ gender inequality in AI

Research from the University of Cambridge found that cinematic depictions of AI scientists are heavily skewed towards men, contributing to a cultural stereotype that may deter women from pursuing AI careers. The study highlights the need for more diverse representation in AI development.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPublic Understanding of Science·DateFeb 12, 2023

Funding injection for Strep A vaccine research at UQ

A University of Queensland-led team has secured almost $8 million in philanthropic funding to develop an mRNA vaccine against Group A Streptococcus (Strep A), which causes over 500,000 deaths annually due to rheumatic heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateFeb 12, 2023

Medication that protects brain tissue linked to improved stroke survival

A new neuroprotectant medication called ApTOLL has been shown to improve survival and reduce long-term disability among patients with stroke. The study found that ApTOLL, when used in conjunction with standard treatments, reduced death and brain damage, suggesting a promising new approach to treating stroke.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 12, 2023

NUS researchers find differential impacts of Blastocystis strains on gut health

Researchers identified two Blastocystis strains, ST4 and ST7, with contrasting effects on the gut microbiome, promoting or disrupting a healthy balance. The study's findings suggest that geographical prevalence may influence the strain's impact on intestinal disease.

SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalTheranostics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 12, 2023

Fish Don’t Dither: A New Study Investigates Danger-Evasion Tactics

A new study has found that zebrafish larvae increase their chances of escape by moving at an angle perpendicular to the predator's direction. The study also examines the role of environmental noise and biomechanical constraints in shaping behavioral responses.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2023

Good news for quality control of messenger RNA (mRNA) medications

Researchers developed a new method to quantify the structure and quality of messenger RNA (mRNA) medicines using liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and software analysis. The platform can analyze all three key components of mRNA medicines simultaneously, providing unparalleled efficiency in checking for quality.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateFeb 11, 2023

New study reveals pregnant people who deliver large babies are at increased risk of developing diabetes later in life

A new study found that pregnant individuals who give birth to large-for-gestational-age (LGA) babies are at a higher risk of developing prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes 10-14 years after childbirth. Researchers analyzed data from the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Follow-up Study, which revealed a significant association bet...

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2023

First nonhuman primate model of Usher syndrome confirmed

A new nonhuman primate model of Usher syndrome has been confirmed, providing hope for the development of a treatment for this leading cause of blindness-deafness. The model, created using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, exhibits symptoms similar to those experienced by humans with the condition.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2023

New tobacco product marketing depends on demographics

Researchers at Rutgers University found that disposable e-cigarettes were more likely sold in specialized stores, while nicotine pouches were available in convenience stores and areas with non-Hispanic white residents. The study suggests that these products are targeted to different audiences and informs potential policy actions.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 10, 2023

New models shed light on life’s origin

Researchers studied lithospheric fluids billions of years ago to infer the presence of metals that could have supported life. Manganese was found to be a likely candidate, while copper was not detected in high concentrations. The study provides new insights into the origin of life and will inform future experiments.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalScience·DateFeb 10, 2023

Researchers reveal new competition mechanism in vacuum ultraviolet photoionization of dichloromethane

A study by Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics reveals two competitive channels for the photoionization of dichloromethane under VUV light irradiation. The dominant photodissociation channel produces Cl radicals that react with CH2Cl2 to form CHCl2+.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 10, 2023

D-dimer blood test shows value in detecting prosthetic joint infections

A new study finds that plasma D-dimer levels have comparable diagnostic accuracy to other commonly used tests for identifying periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), and sometimes outperform the standard tests. The test showed higher sensitivity and specificity in detecting PJI, particularly in certain patient subgroups.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateFeb 10, 2023

Improving Treatment for Recurrent Multiple Myeloma With Ide-Cel CAR T Therapy

A new study found that patients with recurrent multiple myeloma can benefit from receiving ide-cel CAR T therapy earlier in their disease course. The treatment showed a nearly sevenfold increase in complete remission rates compared to standard care.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 10, 2023

Hospital visit for chest pain not always necessary

A study at Radboud University Medical Center found that pre-hospital troponin measurements can safely identify low-risk patients with chest pain, reducing the need for hospital visits. The results show a small risk of major adverse cardiac events, but also significant cost savings.

SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 10, 2023

UNDER EMBARGO: Mount Sinai doctors present new research at 43rd Annual Pregnancy Meeting

Researchers from Mount Sinai Health System presented studies on the association between obesity and adverse outcomes in forceps-assisted vaginal deliveries, as well as the utility of cervical length surveillance after cerclage placement for predicting preterm birth. Additionally, a new tool for managing postpartum hemorrhage was showca...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 10, 2023

CAR-T cell cancer immunotherapy gets personal

Researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute developed a method to fine-tune CAR-T cell stimulation using artificial antigen-presenting scaffolds. This approach enhances consistency and potency of resulting CAR-T cell products, allowing for better cancer treatment outcomes.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

'Natural killer' immune cells can modify tissue inflammation: study

Researchers have discovered a new group of immune cells called NKRM cells that limit immune responses in tissues and prevent autoimmunity. This discovery may lead to new treatments for conditions like Sjogren's Syndrome and chronic inflammatory diseases.

SourceMonash University·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

A second chance to protect wetlands

A recent study published in Nature highlights the underestimation of global wetland loss over the past 300 years. The research found that temperate river floodplains and tropical regions are disproportionately affected, while remote boreal-arctic peatlands remain relatively unharmed.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateFeb 10, 2023

Cockatoos know to bring along multiple tools when they fish for cashews

In a controlled experiment, researchers found that Goffin's cockatoos recognize when multiple tools are required to extract seeds from a fruit. The birds were able to adapt their tool use depending on the situation and transport the tools as a set on an as-needed basis.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Mapping molecular funnels with X-rays: precise timings of non-adiabatic excited state dynamics

Scientists at Stockholm University propose a nonlinear spectroscopic technique to investigate coupled nuclear electronic dynamics in photo-excited molecules. This approach allows for the observation of conical intersections, which are 'funnels' connecting different electronic states, and provides insight into non-adiabatic dynamics.

SourceUltrafast Science·JournalUltrafast Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

ESMO Gynaecological Cancers Congress 2023

The ESMO Gynaecological Cancers Congress 2023 will present the latest treatments and insights for ovarian, uterine, cervical, and rare gynaecological cancers. Around 80 studies will be presented on strategies to overcome PARP inhibitors mechanisms of resistance in ovarian cancer.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·DateFeb 10, 2023

Fiber sensing scientists invent 3D printed fiber microprobe for measuring in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cell

Researchers at Shenzhen University have developed a compact fiber optical nanomechanical probe (FONP) to measure in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cells. The high-precision mechanical sensing system enables accurate measurements with spring constants as low as 2.1 nanonewtons.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateFeb 10, 2023

Why South African moms buy commercial milk formula when breast is best

A study found that many South African mothers introduce formula prematurely due to misinterpreting normal baby behavior, highlighting the need for better support. The study also critiques the formula industry's exploitative marketing tactics and their influence on public policy.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalThe Lancet·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 10, 2023

β-damascone: Aroma component of rose fragrance as a novel immunomodulator

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science discovered β-damascone, a natural aroma compound found in rose fragrance, modulates dendritic cell functions and reduces inflammatory cytokine production. The study showed β-damascone inhibits antigen-dependent activation and Th1 cell development, as well as ear inflammation in mice models.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Highlights from the journal CHEST®, February 2023

The February issue of the CHEST journal features 37 articles exploring various topics in chest medicine, including asthma, COPD, and pulmonary vascular disease. The journal also highlights its equity topic collection, focusing on conditions that affect women, such as pulmonary arterial hypertension and sarcoidosis.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·Journalthe journal CHEST·DateFeb 10, 2023

Extracts from two wild plants inhibit COVID-19 virus, study finds

A study by Emory University researchers found that extracts from two wild plants, tall goldenrod and eagle fern, inhibited the ability of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to infect living cells. The active compounds are present in miniscule quantities, making it ineffective for self-treatment, but may hold promise as medicines against COVID-19.

SourceEmory University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Deep-sea black carbon comes from hydrothermal vents

Research reveals hydrothermal vents as a previously undiscovered source of dissolved black carbon in the oceans, transporting it thousands of kilometers away. This discovery sheds light on the ocean's role as a carbon sink and provides insights into the formation of recalcitrant dissolved organic carbon.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2023

How protein-rich droplets form

Scientists have developed a new method to measure calorimetric quantities at the molecular level with picosecond time resolution. By tracking water's spectroscopic fingerprints in the THz range, researchers can accurately predict protein-rich droplet formation and its dependency on external parameters like temperature.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Recalls of fresh meat products may lower customer demand

Fresh meat recalls can significantly reduce customer demand, with large recalls causing a larger loss in meat demand. The study suggests that companies can take action to prevent food recalls by increasing mandatory inspection of fresh meat products and developing standard regulations.

SourcePenn State·JournalFood Policy·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 10, 2023

New major international study finds thrombectomy highly effective treatment for large strokes

A large international clinical study found that patients with large strokes had significantly better recovery after endovascular thrombectomy plus medical management. The SELECT2 study showed almost 20% of patients who received thrombectomy regained functional independence, compared to 7% on medical treatment only.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 10, 2023

Understanding Japan’s earthquakes: New insight into the relationship between slow slip events and the build-up and release of tectonic strain

Researchers investigated the relationship between slow slip events and tectonic strain in Japan's Bungo Channel, Tokai, and Boso-Oki regions. They found that not all accumulated strain is released during SSEs, but rather builds up in shallower areas before a megathrust earthquake can occur.

SourceKobe University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2023

Review strengthens evidence that repetitive head impacts can cause CTE

A recent review strengthens the connection between repetitive head impacts and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), highlighting a strong dose response relationship. CTE has been diagnosed in over 600 cases, with 97% of confirmed cases showing exposure to RHI, primarily through contact sports.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 10, 2023

Research illuminates a therapeutic strategy to induce cancer cell death

Researchers at CU Cancer Center have discovered a way to activate the p53 tumor suppressor gene, which can kill cancer cells. By inhibiting two repressors of p53, the Integrated Stress Response is activated, leading to cancer cell death in multiple cancer types.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2023

Tracing the origin of life

Researchers discover abiotic peptide chain formation from glycine in space conditions, shedding light on the origin of life. The study shows that small clusters of glycine molecules exhibit polymerization upon energy input.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

How does biodiversity change globally? Detecting accurate trends may be currently unfeasible

A global picture of local species richness trends is hindered by incomplete and biased data, with regional imbalances leading to a distorted impression. The study advocates for prioritizing local assessments and standardized monitoring programs to address measurement errors and spatial biases.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalEcography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2023

Sex, labor, and financial exchange in couchsurfing

A study found that nearly half of under-25 couchsurfers identified as queer, with poor mental health and psychological distress common among this group. Sexual exchange, including labor, was a significant concern, particularly for bisexual and queer women.

SourceGriffith University·JournalYouth·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 10, 2023

Researchers use water treatment method to capture acids from agricultural waste

A Penn State-led research team has invented a new class of ion-exchange membrane wafer assemblies that significantly improves electrodeionization's ability to capture p-coumaric acid from liquid mixtures. The new design reduces the amount of membrane needed, resulting in cost savings and increased efficiency.

SourcePenn State·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

CU researchers show that Paxlovid remains highly effective on Omicron variants

Researchers from the University of Colorado found that Paxlovid significantly reduced rates of hospitalization and death among non-hospitalized patients infected with recent Omicron subvariants. The study used real-world data from 28,000 patients and suggested a benefit for Paxlovid in preventing severe disease.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 10, 2023

Access matters: Lack of resources is associated with increased mortality in childhood cancer survivors

A recent study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that socioeconomic deprivation and frailty are independently associated with increased late mortality in childhood cancer survivors. The research highlights the importance of policies to improve local environments and access to interventions that may improve health conditions.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 10, 2023

Researchers detail never-before-seen properties in a family of superconducting Kagome metals

Scientists have detailed the atomic structure of superconducting RbV3Sb5 at 103 degrees Kelvin, revealing a unique lattice pattern and charge-density wave. This breakthrough provides a new understanding of exotic states of matter and brings researchers closer to developing higher-temperature superconductors.

SourceBrown University·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Study confirms pancreatic cancer rates rising faster in women than men

A recent study confirms that pancreatic cancer rates are rising faster in women than men, particularly among younger women and Black women. The rate of pancreatic cancer among women under the age of 55 increased by 2.4% compared to men of the same age, highlighting a significant disparity in mortality rates between the sexes.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalGastroenterology·DateFeb 10, 2023

NIH scientists discover a rare neurological disease involving cellular recycling

Researchers identified a rare neurological disease in three children associated with mutations in the ATG4D gene, which plays a crucial role in cellular recycling. The study suggests that this genetic variation may lead to insufficient cellular recycling, causing speech and motor impairment.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·Journalnpj Genomic Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023

Cocaine use disorder alters gene networks of neuroinflammation and neurotransmission in humans

Research found that cocaine use disorder causes significant gene expression changes in brain regions associated with reward and habit formation, contributing to persistent behavioral abnormalities. The study also identified overlapping molecular changes between cocaine and opioid use disorders, offering potential for targeted treatments.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2023