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Science News for February 21, 2023


Simulations show aftermath of black hole collision

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have conducted simulations of two black holes colliding near the speed of light, producing a remnant black hole and gravitational waves. The study reveals nonlinear effects that cannot be studied with linearized equations, suggesting current models need to be revised.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Non-invasive imaging of spatiotemporal ion distribution across cell membranes

Researchers at Chiba University developed a non-invasive imaging technique using electrical impedance tomography to study spatiotemporal ion distribution on cell membranes. The method successfully measured anisotropic transmembrane transport and calculated associated transport coefficients, providing insights into biological functions ...

SourceChiba University·JournalMeasurement·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Ben-Gurion University engineers develop one of the fastest and most efficient amphibious robots

The researchers designed the robot to mimic the movement of flippers in water and centipedes on land, resulting in impressive speeds of 1.5 body lengths per second on land and 0.74 body lengths per second in water. The amphibious robot has potential applications in search and rescue, marine agriculture, and fish feeding.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Explanations of artificial intelligence: Author proposes model that highlights evidence of fairness

A Carnegie Mellon University professor proposes a new AI model that highlights the evidence of fairness in decision-making. The model provides counterfactual explanations to demonstrate whether past decisions were fair or biased. This research has practical implications for legislative efforts, industry norms, and AI model evaluation.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateFeb 21, 2023

Better tools needed to determine ancient life on Mars

Researchers found microorganisms in Martian rocks that are difficult to detect with current instrumentation. The team suggests more powerful tools or bringing samples to Earth to conclusively address whether life existed on Mars. A European Mars rover expected to launch in 2028 will carry a drill capable of analyzing sediments deeper, ...

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 21, 2023

Preconception blood glucose levels and the risk of preterm birth

A new study examines the associations between preconception blood glucose levels and the risk of preterm birth. Women with preconception diabetes or prediabetes were found to be at increased risk of preterm birth, with elevated HbA1c levels linked to a higher risk among those without stable healthcare coverage.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Women s Health·TypeCase study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Building better enzymes – by breaking them down

Researchers developed an algorithm that uses physics-based protein design calculations and machine learning to generate thousands of active enzymes, achieving a tenfold increase in success rate over traditional methods. The new method, CADENZ, has the potential to transform industries by providing green alternatives for processes such ...

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2023

Oncotarget | Extreme phenotype approach identifies rare ATR variants as potential male breast cancer susceptibility alleles

Researchers have identified three novel pathogenic variants of the ATR gene as predisposing to male breast cancer. These variants were found in a cohort of individuals with early onset and familial breast cancers, using a combination of exome sequencing and functional investigations. The study suggests that extended genetic analysis ca...

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Pill for skin disease also curbs excessive drinking

Researchers identified apremilast as an incredibly promising treatment for alcohol use disorder, reducing consumption by more than half in a clinical trial. The medication, approved for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, triggers increased activity in the brain's nucleus accumbens to control alcohol intake.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2023

Conifer-killing beetles use smell of beneficial fungus to select host trees

Researchers found that conifer-killing beetles can detect the smell of a beneficial fungus through specialized neurons in their antennae, allowing them to identify infected trees. This detection system enables the beetles to locate fungi-produced compounds in tree resin, which may serve as cues for feeding and breeding.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Paying family members for at-home medical care of their children found to be a viable answer to healthcare worker shortage

A recent study from Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago suggests that paid family caregiving can be a viable answer to the healthcare worker shortage. The study, which compared children with medical complexity cared for by family-CNA caregivers versus traditional non-family CNAs, found no significant difference in hospi...

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateFeb 21, 2023

Study supports evidence ivermectin is ineffective at treating COVID-19

Researchers from the University of Oxford-affiliated researchers found that high doses of ivermectin are ineffective in treating COVID-19. The study used the PLATCOV trial to compare the rates at which different drugs reduced the viral load of SARS-CoV-2, and the results suggest that ivermectin does not have measurable antiviral activity.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateFeb 21, 2023

Solid-state thermal transistor demonstrated

A research team at Hokkaido University has created a stable and effective solid-state electrochemical thermal transistor that can control heat flow with electrical signals. The device outperforms current liquid-state thermal transistors in terms of stability and efficiency.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Potential treatment target for rare form of infant epilepsy identified

A new study from Tufts University School of Medicine and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences suggests that the timing of inhibitory neuron cell death may be a key factor in infantile spasms syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment could potentially prevent significant impairments associated with the condition, offering hope for f...

SourceTufts University·JournalNeuroscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Gene variations for immune and metabolic conditions have persisted in humans for more than 700,000 years

A recent study by the University at Buffalo has discovered that genetic variations affecting immunity and metabolism have been preserved in humans for millions of years. This finding supports the theory of balancing selection, which suggests that certain genetic traits can be beneficial or harmful depending on environmental conditions.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournaleLife·DateFeb 21, 2023

Hip muscle exercises could help amputees improve functional mobility

Researchers found that strengthening hip abductor muscles can provide effective compensation for weaknesses in knee extensor muscles, leading to improved mobility in people with below-the-knee amputations. The study tested the hypothesis in eight military personnel who had undergone a lower limb amputation and showed promising results.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJournal of Biomechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

How to compensate for loss of gene function? Think alternative splicing

Scientists discovered how alternative splicing enables the compensatory increase of MBNL2 protein in response to MBNL1 loss-of-function. This mechanism, found in animal models and potentially applicable to human patients, may help explain disease variability and offer new therapeutic avenues for Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Vibrating capsule doubles the ability for constipation sufferers to poop without drugs

A vibrating capsule designed to stimulate the colon has been shown to double the number of complete spontaneous bowel movements in adults with debilitating chronic constipation. The device, which is not a drug and works directly in the colon, showed significant improvement in symptoms such as straining and stool consistency.

Shrinking from the heat

Researchers at Aalto University have developed new textiles that change shape when heated, providing adjustable aesthetics and potential applications in health monitoring and thermal insulation. The innovative fabrics use liquid crystalline elastomers, which can respond to heat, light, or other stimuli.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 21, 2023

Novel method with carbon-coated magnetite nanoclusters proposed in cancer synergistic therapy

Researchers have developed a novel method using carbon-coated magnetite nanoclusters to enhance cancer synergistic therapy. The nanoclusters absorb NIR-II irradiation, producing cytotoxic heat that kills cancer cells. This improves CDT efficiency and produces synergistic therapeutic effects.

Locking and unlocking molecular structures on demand

Researchers from Kanazawa University developed a new approach to control the formation and dissociation of rotaxanes, which can be used as building blocks for molecular machines. The new strategy uses accelerators like bromine ions to speed up the processes, opening up possibilities for tunable functionality.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 21, 2023

A new model of palliative care to empower communities in Africa

A culturally appropriate model of end-of-life care is being developed in Ghana to address the scarcity of palliative care in low-resource communities. COMPASS Ghana aims to provide universal end-of-life care by the end of the decade, utilizing a compassionate community approach that involves patients and caregivers in care provision.

SourceLancaster University·JournalBMJ Supportive & Palliative Care·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

When is remdesivir effective for COVID-19?

A new analysis of COVID-19 patient data reveals that remdesivir significantly lowers mortality in unvaccinated patients with conventional oxygen support. The study found no evidence of varying treatment effects based on age, comorbidities, or inflammation levels.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalThe Lancet Respiratory Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

Cardiovascular benefits of lipid-lowering drugs apply across ethnicities and regions

A recent study found that lipid-lowering therapies reduce major adverse cardiovascular events across diverse ethnic groups and regions. The analysis of 53 trials involving over 329,000 participants revealed consistent risk reductions of up to 45% in certain minority populations.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2023

Study provides roadmap for using convalescent plasma as an effective COVID-19 treatment

A new analysis reveals that convalescent plasma can be used to prevent hospitalizations and save lives in COVID-19 patients. Early treatment with high doses of antibodies significantly reduced hospitalization rates by up to 50%. The study provides a roadmap for using convalescent plasma as an effective therapy for future pandemics.

SourceBrown University·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

A new model to better understand what’s inside colliding black holes

A new model developed by researchers at Columbia University and the University of Mississippi improves the accuracy of gravitational wave analysis by including nonlinear interactions. This enhanced modeling method will help scientists better understand the structure of merging black holes and test Einstein's theory of general relativity.

SourceColumbia University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Satisfying mid-life relationships linked to lower multiple chronic disease risk in older age

Research published in General Psychiatry found that satisfying mid-life relationships are linked to a lower risk of accumulating multiple long-term conditions in older age. The study, which included 13,714 Australian women, suggests that stronger social connections and higher relationship satisfaction are associated with a lower risk o...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGeneral Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

CHOP researchers develop first effective preclinical models for most common genetic cause of Leigh Syndrome

Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia developed two new zebrafish models for studying SURF1 mitochondrial disease, a major cause of Leigh syndrome. The team identified two drugs, cysteamine bitartrate and N-acetylcysteine, that showed potential in preventing neurological decompensation in patients with Leigh syndrome.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

US Census data vulnerable to attack without enhanced privacy measures

Computer scientists designed a reconstruction attack that proves US Census data can be exposed and stolen with current privacy measures. The study demonstrates risks to individual respondents' privacy, highlighting the need for differential privacy techniques to protect sensitive information.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2023

New cloud research project launched at the German Antarctic station Neumayer-III

The COALA project aims to measure the relationships between aerosols and clouds in Antarctica's 'clean-air laboratory' using ground-based instruments. Long-term observations will help scientists better understand cloud formation, precipitation, and radiation budget in this region.

SourceLeibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research (TROPOS)·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

For the first time, an innovative intervention program offers help for people suffering from maladaptive daydreaming

Maladaptive daydreaming is characterized by extensive immersion in vivid fantasies and can impair social, family, and employment functions. The new study's results show significant improvement in treatment groups, with around one-fourth of participants completely recovered from the condition.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2023

Any regular physical activity at any age linked to better brain function in later life

A long-term study found that regular leisure time physical activity at any age is associated with better brain function in later life. Maintaining an exercise routine throughout adulthood was particularly beneficial for preserving mental acuity and memory. The study, which included over 1,400 participants, showed that being physically ...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

New research reveals possible COVID vaccine blood clot connection

A new Australian study found fundamental differences in how the AstraZeneca and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines impact the immune system, with some people receiving more effective protection than others. The study revealed a potential explanation for the connection between the AstraZeneca vaccine and blood clotting cases.

SourceFlinders University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 21, 2023

Gameto licenses Wyss Institute tech to grow human ovaries in the lab

Scientists at the Wyss Institute and Gameto develop a living, fully human ovarian organoid that supports egg cell maturation and secretes sex hormones. This technology enables the study of human ovarian biology without tissue from patients and could lead to new treatments for infertility and ovarian cancer.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Climate and geography develop spiritual connections between giant trees and human beings

A macroecological study found that giant tree properties, such as trunk circumference and age, are strongly correlated with climatic factors. The probability of a tree being an object of faith tends to increase with lower annual precipitation, highlighting the impact of climate change on spiritual ecosystem services.

SourceNational Institute for Environmental Studies·JournalNature Plants·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

Celebrity tweets likely shaped US negative public opinion of COVID-19 pandemic

An analysis of 13 million tweets suggests that celebrity tweets, particularly from politicians and news anchors, played a significant role in shaping public opinion on the COVID-19 pandemic in the US. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring social media activity to combat misinformation and promote health-protective behaviors.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Health & Care Informatics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2023

Arsenic contaminates private drinking water wells across the western Great Basin

A new study maps high arsenic levels in groundwater wells across northern Nevada, northeastern California, and western Utah, with over 49,000 users at risk. The model uses geologic, hydrologic, and tectonic variables to predict elevated arsenic levels, particularly in regions like Carson Desert basin and Truckee Meadows.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Excess nutrients lead to dramatic ecosystem changes in Cape Cod’s Waquoit Bay; the bay is a harbinger for estuaries worldwide, say researchers

Researchers found that Waquoit Bay has shifted from a benthic to a pelagically-dominated ecosystem due to human causes, including excess nutrient pollution and climate change. The bay's ecosystem degradation has broader implications for estuaries worldwide.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalEstuaries and Coasts·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Study finds sinking tundra surface unlikely to trigger runaway permafrost thaw

Researchers used a high-performance computer simulation to study the impact of soil subsidence on permafrost thawing in the Arctic tundra. They found that uneven land subsidence leads to a drier landscape, which limits the process's acceleration through the end of the century.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 21, 2023

Ultrawide measurement for viscous fluids comes to chip-scale devices from bendable strips

Researchers developed a miniaturized viscometer using GaN optical device and bendable strip, achieving an ultra-wide viscosity range of 10^0 - 10^6 mPa·s. The viscometer demonstrated real-time monitoring capabilities and low sample consumption, making it suitable for practical applications.