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Science News for December 6, 2023


Grinding coffee with a splash of water reduces static electricity and makes more consistent and intense espresso

Researchers found that adding water to coffee beans before grinding reduces static electricity, resulting in less wasted coffee and cleaner grinders. Grinding with water also produces more consistent and intense espresso. The study's findings have significant economic implications for the $343.2 billion coffee industry.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Map of disease-causing mutations in neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer revealed

Researchers have created the first extensive map showing which genetic changes can cause disease, leading to valuable insights into neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer. The study reveals that 90% of previously unexplained genetic changes' impact on health is significant, promising speedier diagnosis and new treatment avenues.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Shaping tobacco control messages for the Chinese lunar new year through effective short videos

A new study evaluates effective short video concepts for tobacco control during the Chinese Lunar New Year, finding that certain designs can change behavioral intentions and cultural appropriateness. The most suitable design was a 'Gamified couple at home' style video, while another option showed promise in personal motivation but was ...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGlobal Transitions·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2023

New study finds many couples around the world may share high blood pressure

A new study found that in many older couples, both husband and wife had high blood pressure in the U.S., England, China, and India. This association was stronger in collectivist societies like China and India, where couples are expected to depend and support each other emotionally and instrumentally.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 6, 2023

Scientists plead to be heard in pesticide debate: Exposure linked to risk of developing parkinson's disease via changes in gut microbiome

A review article links pesticide exposure to an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease through alterations in the gut microbiota. The authors recommend reducing or replacing agrochemicals and implementing coordinated efforts to develop standardized biomarkers for gut integrity and microbiome changes.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Parkinson’s Disease·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 6, 2023

Evaluation of stigma toward individuals with acne

A survey study of 1,357 respondents found stigmatizing attitudes toward patients with acne exist across different scenarios, highlighting the need for approaches to reduce stigma and improve access to care. Severe acne and darker skin tone are associated with a higher degree of stigma.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateDec 6, 2023

Comparable memory strategies in birds and humans

The study used various tests to analyze the memory performance of jackdaws, finding that their performance decreased when working memory demands increased. The researchers found that corvids, like humans, show reduced accuracy and biased representations when working memory demands are high.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Accelerating drug development for lung diseases: New insights from single-cell genomics

A new experimental model, human precision-cut lung slices (hPCLS), was used to study lung disease mechanisms and understand treatment response. The team leveraged single-cell genomics to analyze cell activity in hPCLS after specific treatments.

World-first trial offers new hope for type 1 diabetes

A world-first human trial shows that a commonly prescribed rheumatoid arthritis drug can safely and effectively preserve the body's own insulin production and suppress the progression of type 1 diabetes. The drug, baricitinib, was found to be effective in maintaining insulin production in people who initiated treatment within 100 days ...

SourceSt Vincent's Institute of Medical Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 6, 2023

Multimedia distribution and health risk assessment of typical organic pollutants —— a case study of a retired industrial park

A study investigated the risk assessment and remediation of a retired industrial park in Zhejiang Province, China. The researchers measured soil and groundwater samples to assess the comprehensive risk of organic pollutants, highlighting the importance of accurate classification and grading of risk zones.

SourceHigher Education Press·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Research shows tennis ball concussions are rare, but possible

A study by Southern Methodist University researchers found that tennis ball head injuries can cause traumatic brain injuries, although they are rare. The study used computational modeling to simulate the impact of a tennis ball on a person's head, and found that high-speed impacts could lead to concussions or worse.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalJournal of Applied Mechanics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2023

Moffitt researchers identify key mechanisms of action differences in 2 immune checkpoint inhibitor combination therapies for advanced melanoma

Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center analyzed the mechanisms of action of anti-PD-1/CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/LAG-3 combination therapies, identifying specific subtypes of CD4 T cells that become activated. The study found differences in how these therapies affect CD4 T cells, leading to distinct anticancer effects.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Embargoed press release: Blood hormone levels key to identifying which post-menopausal women will benefit most from taking anastrozole to prevent breast cancer

A recent study published in Lancet Oncology has found that measuring blood hormone levels can identify post-menopausal women who are most likely to benefit from anastrozole, a medication used to prevent breast cancer. The study suggests that inexpensive blood tests could be used to personalize preventive therapy for these women.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 6, 2023

Mysteries of Earth’s ancient mass extinction event revealed

A team led by USC Dornsife researchers has uncovered stark differences in the impact of a 200-million-year-old mass extinction event on marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The study found that land-based ecosystems were hit harder, with nearly 96% of species going extinct, while marine ecosystems showed resilience with only 71% of gener...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 6, 2023

Trump-era policy on global aid curtailed family planning services in Africa

A new study found that the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy reduced provision and use of contraceptives, as well as community health volunteer services, in African countries. This policy, formerly known as the Mexico City Policy, had detrimental effects on family planning service delivery and utilization.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeSurvey·DateDec 6, 2023

How ‘listening’ to archaeological sites could shed light on the past

Researchers used psychoacoustics to analyze sound frequencies and clarity at the ancient Greek sanctuary of Zeus, revealing that hillside spectators could hear sounds from the hippodrome. The method provides a unique perspective on ancient societies' organization and activity, but its results should be interpreted with caution.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Archaeology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

New research reveals a fishing threshold for reef resilience

A study led by Arizona State University found that herbivore fishing to less than 80% of their unfished density compromises reef resilience due to algae overgrowth. The research, published before regulatory decisions in Hawai'i, highlights the critical role of herbivores in maintaining coral reef health.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 6, 2023

New study concludes finding cure for malaria may be even more challenging than thought

A new study published in Cell Host & Microbe concludes that even people with the protective Duffy-silent blood type can still become infected with malaria. The research suggests that the parasite may have found alternative ways to infect red blood cells, raising questions about how to combat this type of malaria.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 6, 2023

AI takes the reins in deep-tissue imaging

Researchers at Purdue University developed a novel AI engine to control and optimize optical microscopes, enabling 3D ultrastructure visualization of the brain circuitry with nanometer resolution. This technology has the potential to shed light on human development and disease, particularly autism and Alzheimer's disease.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 6, 2023

Social Policy Report Q&A: Preventing adolescent suicide: recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, program developers, and researchers

A new report recommends a layered approach to prevent adolescent suicide by focusing on pediatrician offices, schools, and neighborhoods. Universal screenings, safe storage programs, and affirming LGBTQ+ policies can help create protective environments.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalSocial Policy Report·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 6, 2023

Experimental HIV vaccine regimens likely to be ineffective in preventing HIV acquisition, PrEPVacc study reports

A new HIV prevention study, PrEPVacc, has stopped further vaccinations due to little or no chance of demonstrating vaccine efficacy in preventing HIV acquisition. The trial, testing two different combinations of HIV vaccines and a new oral PrEP drug formulation, aims to find out if either can prevent HIV infection.

SourcePrEPVacc·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 6, 2023

Susan G. Komen® Breast Cancer Research Awards presented to exceptional breast cancer physician scientists and research advocate

The Susan G. Komen organization presents awards to four dedicated physician scientists and a pioneering research advocate for their contributions to advancing breast cancer research and transforming patient care. Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade and Dr. Daniel Hayes are recognized for their work in basic science and clinical research, respecti...

Orangutan male success: Not by dominance alone

A study of wild orangutan males reveals that simply beating rivals in competitions does not lead to siring success. Instead, successful fathers spend more time near the females with whom they mate, suggesting a strategy of concentrating on one neighborhood rather than roaming widely is key.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2023

Rare genetic variants better assessed

Researchers have developed gene-specific classification criteria for assessing the medical relevance of unclear genetic variants that can lead to hereditary colorectal cancer. The new criteria are expected to reclassify a significant proportion of these variants as harmless, providing relief to carriers worldwide.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateDec 6, 2023

Tucatinib plus trastuzumab emtansine may benefit patients with advanced or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer

A phase III trial found that tucatinib plus trastuzumab emtansine extended progression-free survival in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, particularly those with brain metastases. The combination reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 24.1% and improved outcomes for pati...

More than skin-deep

A team of Kyoto University researchers found that macrophages produce granulomas through a hyperactive metabolic pathway called the pentose phosphate pathway. Inhibition of this pathway showed therapeutic efficacy in reducing granuloma formation in vitro and in mouse tissue models.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Hydrogen sulfide regulates neural circuit for respiration

Researchers at University of Tsukuba found that hydrogen sulfide production within the respiratory center alters neurotransmissions, disrupting breathing patterns. The study identified variations in this mechanism across different regions, revealing a modulating influence on neural circuits contributing to respiration stability.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 6, 2023

A mathematical model connects the evolution of chickens, fish and frogs

Researchers developed a mathematical model that accurately predicts gastrulation flows in chick embryos, which are similar to human embryos. The model then predicted cellular flows observed in frog and fish embryos, suggesting common physical principles behind multicellular self-organization across vertebrate species.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2023

Unequal impacts: The herbivory variability network explores variability in plant, herbivore interactions

Research published in Science explores the variability in plant-herbivore interactions, revealing that plants in tropical populations tend to receive similar amount of herbivory, while temperate populations show more variation. Plant size, latitude, and phylogeny are key factors explaining this variability.

SourceUtah State University·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateDec 6, 2023

Improving thunderstorm prediction by watching lightning flashes from space

A new study improves thunderstorm forecasting by utilizing Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES-R) lightning flash observations. The implementation of the EnVAR assimilation capabilities successfully enhances the forecasting performance, especially over regions lacking operational weather radar observations.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateDec 6, 2023

NUS-SCELSE scientists uncover plant hormone that recruits good bacteria to boost plant growth by 30%

Researchers at NUS-SCELSE have discovered a plant hormone, methyl jasmonate, that communicates with beneficial microorganisms in the soil, boosting crop growth by 30%. This finding holds great promise for sustainable agriculture and could lead to the development of nature-based agrochemicals.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Greenhouse gases in oceans are altered by climate change impact on microbes – an Incheon National University study

Researchers from Incheon National University found that climate change impacts prokaryotes in oceans, altering methane and nitrous oxide cycles. This study highlights the need for policies to reduce ocean acidification and warming to stabilize vital microbial communities and greenhouse gas cycles.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

A reflective display based on electro-microfluidic assembly of particles within suppressed water-in-oil droplet array

Researchers developed an innovative reflective display method using electro-microfluidic assembly of particles, enabling multicolored displays with high reversibility and viewing angles. The technique offers advantages in fabrication, response speed, and color performance, making it a promising candidate for green display technology.

Repeated blast exposures may harm the brain health of military personnel

A study found increased brain inflammation and structural changes in special operations personnel exposed to blasts, potentially increasing the risk of long-term brain-related disease. The research suggests that repetitive exposure to low-level blasts may cause brain injuries and highlights the need for better protective measures.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Neurotrauma·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 6, 2023

Can brain stimulation benefit individuals with schizophrenia?

Researchers found that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improved event-based prospective memory in patients with schizophrenia, but not time-based prospective memory. The study suggests rTMS as a potential therapeutic option for prospective memory impairments in individuals with schizophrenia.

SourceWiley·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology Reports·DateDec 6, 2023

Plant diversity stabilizes soil temperature

Researchers found that high plant diversity acts as a buffer against fluctuations in soil temperature, protecting ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Plant diversity increased shading and organic carbon content, reducing heat conduction and stabilizing soil temperature.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

New dark matter theory explains two puzzles in astrophysics

A new theory, self-interacting dark matter (SIDM), proposes that dark matter particles interact through a dark force, explaining high-density halos and low-density halos of ultra-diffuse galaxies. SIDM simulates cosmic structure formation with strong dark matter self-interactions, diversifying halo density in central regions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2023

Novel dice loss functions for improved image segmentation

Novel Dice loss functions, t-vMF Dice loss and Adaptive t-vMF Dice loss, have been developed to improve image segmentation accuracy in medical images. These new functions outperform conventional formulations and show great potential for critical fields like medical imaging and diagnosis.

SourceMeijo University·JournalComputers in Biology and Medicine·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 6, 2023

Wood materials make for reliable organic solar cells

Scientists at Linköping University have created stable and environmentally friendly organic solar cells by incorporating untreated kraft lignin into the electron transport layer. This innovation improves the overall efficiency and reliability of organic solar cells, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 6, 2023

Do “forever chemicals” have “forever impacts”? Study suggests link between higher prenatal pfas exposures and offspring obesity risk in adolescence

A Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute study found a strong link between higher prenatal PFAS exposure and increased rates of obesity and body fat in adolescent offspring. Higher levels of certain PFAS were associated with a 13-59% increase in the risk of obesity, highlighting the long-term consequences of PFAS for developmental health.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateDec 6, 2023

Fascicle gearing dynamics: Unveiling 3D rotation effects in muscle elongation

Researchers at Waseda University used diffusion tensor imaging to reconstruct fascicles in three dimensions, finding that a gearing mechanism reduces individual fascicle elongation during stretching. This mechanism allows muscles to extend without significant fiber length changes, preventing overstretching and injury.

SourceWaseda University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023

Light therapy may improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease

A meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials found significant improvements in sleep efficiency and psycho-behavioral symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Light therapy also alleviated depression and reduced patient agitation and caregiver burden.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 6, 2023

Study reshapes understanding of mass extinction in Late Devonian era

Researchers have long debated the cause of the Late Devonian mass extinction event, with some attributing it to large-scale volcanic eruptions and others to a mass deoxygenation event caused by land plants. A new study now posits that both factors played a role, highlighting the environmental tipping points the planet faces today.

SourceIndiana University·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 6, 2023

HKUST elucidates how IGF2’s secretory pathway mediates muscle stem cell differentiation

A HKUST research team identified TMED10 as a protein that facilitates the secretion of insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2), which is crucial for muscle stem cell differentiation. The study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying IGF2's functions and suggests potential therapeutic strategies to modulate its signaling.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2023