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Science News for July 26, 2023


Korean Red Ginseng can alleviate addictive effects of alcohol, find Sahmyook University researchers

Researchers found that Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) can restore spatial working memory and reduce withdrawal symptoms in mice exposed to alcohol. KRG suppresses the PKA-CREB signaling pathway and inhibits neuroinflammation, suggesting its potential as a novel therapeutic intervention for treating alcohol use disorder.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalJournal of Ginseng Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Study in journal Nature Communications finds high blood glucose levels sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to chemotherapy

Researchers discovered that high blood glucose levels make pancreatic cancer cells more sensitive to chemotherapy, which could lead to improved treatment outcomes. In a mouse model and clinical data, the study found a nearly 40% lower risk of death among patients with elevated glucose levels compared to those with normal levels.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 26, 2023

Low binding affinity improves vaccine efficacy

Researchers developed a novel vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 by selecting antigen variants with low binding affinity, resulting in higher neutralizing antibody concentrations. This design strategy may also improve vaccine efficacy for other coronaviruses and herpes viruses.

SourceBIH at Charité·JournalEuropean Journal of Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Eight out of ten child deaths in low-income countries could be prevented

A study by the CHAMPS network found that 82% of child deaths in low-income countries could have been prevented through targeted interventions. The research used minimally invasive autopsies to investigate causes of death and highlighted the role of infections, with an infectious agent found in 87% of cases.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Bromide ions cause ripples in semiclathrate hydrates

A recent study published in Applied Physics Letters reveals the dynamics of water molecules in tetra-n-butylammonium bromide semiclathrate hydrate using quasi-elastic neutron scattering. The research found that water molecules rapidly reorient, and their motion is consistent with breaking hydrogen bonds.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

A symmetric-actuating linear piezoceramic ultrasonic motor capable of producing a scissoring effect

A novel symmetric-actuating linear piezoceramic ultrasonic motor (SLPUM) is developed to generate symmetrical, synchronous opposite or backward movements of two movers with the same velocity. The SLPUM doubles the working efficiency of traditional piezoelectric motors and can produce high-precision scissoring effects in microsurgery.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Arctic terns may navigate climate dangers

A new study suggests that Arctic terns, which fly on the longest migrations of any animal, may be resilient to climate change due to their vast habitats. However, researchers warn that multiple small effects could harm this long-lived species and other species unable to adapt.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Another step forward in radiocarbon dating and understanding of Earth climate and environmental processes during glacial times

A new study enhances radiocarbon dating by creating a precise record of atmospheric shifts over 14,000 calendar years BP. This improvement allows for more accurate dating of sub-fossil samples, enabling researchers to reconstruct past environmental and climate changes during glacial times.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJul 26, 2023

Study examines struggles of Haitian migrants self-managing diabetes on Dominican Republic sugar cane fields

A new study from the University of Missouri found that poverty, low health literacy, cultural beliefs, lack of infrastructure, and political issues hinder diabetes self-management for Haitian migrants. The researchers suggest targeted interventions, such as community gardens and healthcare education through local priests.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care·TypeSurvey·DateJul 26, 2023

Ben-Gurion University scientists observe driver of chemical reaction in plastics industry for first time

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University have detected the elusive ethyl radical intermediate in the ethane pyrolysis reaction, a key driver of chemical reactions in the plastics and natural gas industries. This discovery could lead to more efficient production of plastics and other chemicals with reduced byproducts and pollution.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

How eavesdropping viruses battle it out to infect us

Researchers find that viruses, like bacteriophages, can eavesdrop on bacterial communication and switch from chill mode to kill mode in response to chemical signals. The study reveals tools that control this strategy and demonstrates its abundance, providing new insights into viral behavior.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

NIH-funded study explains link to increased cardiovascular risks for people with obstructive sleep apnea

Researchers found that people with obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, with reduced blood oxygen levels being the leading factor. The study suggests that treating sleep apnea could help prevent future cardiovascular outcomes.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 26, 2023

Researchers develop machine learning models that could improve suicide-risk prediction among children

Researchers designed machine learning models to identify children at risk of self-harm, finding that incorporating more data points and diagnostic codes improved detection rates. The models were particularly effective for detecting underrepresented groups, such as Black and Latino youth.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJMIR Mental Health·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Research with Brazilian participation is first to create models of bovine embryos

Researchers at the University of São Paulo's Institute of Biosciences successfully developed blastoids from bovine pluripotent stem cells, creating an accessible in vitro model for studying embryogenesis. This breakthrough could lead to improved farm animal reproduction and enable breeding cattle with desirable characteristics.

Cigarette smokers more at risk for tobacco dependence than users of smokeless tobacco or multiple tobacco products

A Mount Sinai study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research found that cigarette smokers are more likely to experience tobacco dependence compared to those who use smokeless tobacco or multiple products. The researchers identified three distinct groups of tobacco users and suggested tailored cessation programs for each group.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJul 26, 2023

Identification of genetic drivers for esophageal cancer creates new opportunity for screening, treatment

Researchers discovered that nine percent of esophageal adenocarcinoma patients harbor cancer-predisposing gene mutations, which may trigger progression from Barrett's esophagus. This finding supports the idea that genetic testing can help risk-stratify EAC patients and potentially accelerate development of new treatments.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalGastroenterology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Tracing invisible particles

Researchers at Technical University of Munich have developed an automated analysis method for identifying and quantifying microplastics. The new process uses Raman microspectroscopy to analyze plastic particles directly, allowing for quick and reliable detection of their size, shape, and composition.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Enhanced light absorption in thin silicon photodetectors with photon-trapping structures

A new approach boosts light absorption in thin silicon photodetectors with photon-trapping structures, increasing the absorption efficiency over a wide band in the NIR spectrum. The findings demonstrate a promising strategy to enhance the performance of Si-based photodetectors for emerging photonics applications.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJul 26, 2023

Immobilizing melanoma

Researchers have identified podoplanin as a key protein driving the spread of mucosal melanoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. Eliminating this protein could lead to a potential treatment through antibody therapy, offering hope for patients with this devastating disease.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 26, 2023

Use of wastewater metrics to track COVID-19

A study using wastewater metrics found accurate assessments of county SARS-CoV-2 incidence and may be the best metric for monitoring virus circulation. Home testing increases and vaccination treatment decrease disease acuity, making wastewater surveillance a reliable option.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 26, 2023

Knowledge that can improve identification and risk stratification of a heart disorder that can cause sudden cardiac death

Researchers identified 12 rare genetic variants associated with QT interval prolongation, increasing the risk of severe heart rhythm abnormalities and sudden cardiac death. These variants can lead to a more precise clinical approach through improved identification and risk stratification, aligning with precision medicine principles.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 26, 2023

Predicting lifespan-extending chemical compounds for C. elegans with machine learning

A new study uses machine learning to analyze data from DrugAge, a database of chemical compounds modulating lifespan in model organisms. The researchers create four types of datasets to predict whether or not a compound extends the lifespan of C. elegans, using features such as compound-protein interactions and Gene Ontology terms.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 2023

Young kids may learn to identify dog aggression with age and experience

A study published in PLOS ONE found that children's ability to recognize dog emotions, especially aggression, improves with age. Four-year-olds were less able to recognize aggressive dog expressions than six-year-olds and adults. As children grow older and gain experience with dogs, they become better at reading canine facial expressions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Genetic study reveals that a captive-bred population could save endangered crocodile from extinction

A genetic study has found that a captive-bred population of the Orinoco crocodile, one of the world's most endangered species, possesses sufficient genetic diversity and is suitable for reintroduction efforts. The Colombian government can use this research to initiate new populations in areas where the species has been depleted.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalNature Conservation·DateJul 26, 2023

For people with diabetes, healthy eating is not enough if their diet is rich in ultra-processed foods

A study by I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed found that high consumption of ultra-processed foods significantly increases mortality risk among people with type 2 diabetes. Even those following a Mediterranean diet are at increased risk if ultra-processed foods account for a large share of their diet.

SourceIstituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S.·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis studies make advances in spatiotemporal pharmacometabolomics, plasma proteome profiling, and hepatocellular carcinoma therapeutics

Researchers developed new methods for detecting drug-induced hepatotoxicity using 3D cell cultures and mass spectrometry imaging, identifying biomarkers and effective interventions. A zeolite-based protein corona method was also used to characterize plasma proteins, enabling the identification of low-abundance proteins and their potent...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

NIH spent $950M for basic or applied research leading to patents providing market exclusivity for drugs approved 2010-19

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) invested approximately $164 billion in project funding prior to first drug approval, with only 0.59% ($0.95/$164 billion) associated with patents providing market exclusivity. This research highlights the limited public interest protections for NIH-funded research on new drugs approved between 20...

SourceBentley University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Asian adults in U.S. less likely to survive cardiac arrest despite bystander CPR equal to white adults

Research highlights an unexpected disparity in survival for Asian adults compared to white adults in the US, with lower survival rates despite comparable bystander CPR rates. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, analyzed data from nearly 279,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 26, 2023

A quick look inside a human being

A team of physicists and medical doctors developed a portable Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) scanner that can visualize dynamic processes in the human body, such as blood flow, without using radiation. The scanner is designed for real-time endovascular interventions and has the potential to change the field of intervention.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Octapharma's prothrombin complex concentrate, Balfaxar®, receives FDA approval for warfarin reversal in urgent surgery & invasive procedures

Octapharma's Balfaxar, a prothrombin complex concentrate, has received FDA approval for the urgent reversal of acquired coagulation factor deficiency induced by vitamin K antagonist therapy. The product demonstrated effective hemostasis in 94.6% of patients and was non-inferior to comparator Kcentra.

SourceYankee Public Relations·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Preliminary results of a first-in-human study show manageable toxicity and preliminary antitumor activity of a potential second generation epigenetic therapy for advanced solid tumors

A first-in-human study demonstrates the efficacy of a novel PRMT5 inhibitor, JNJ-64619178, in treating advanced solid tumors. The treatment showed manageable dose-dependent toxicity and achieved preliminary antitumor activity in patients with various cancer types.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJul 26, 2023

Controlling the electro-optic response of a perovskite coupled to a phonon-resonant cavity

A team of scientists has developed an optically transparent terahertz cavity to manipulate phonon vibrations in semiconducting perovskites. This design allows for on-demand adjustment of ultrafast THz field modulation, benefiting photonic integrated devices and optical communications.

Earlier transfer to specialized care associated with better outcomes for neonates with opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS)

A new study shows that earlier transfer to specialized care is associated with better outcomes for infants with NOWS, including shorter hospital stays and less exposure to medication. The study found that nonpharmacologic interventions, such as swaddling and pacifier use, are critical to clinical outcomes.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalHospital Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 26, 2023

Climate change threatens 771 endangered plant and lichen species

A new study finds that climate change poses a significant threat to all listed plant and lichen species, with only a minority of conservation plans taking direct action to address this issue. The researchers urge policymakers to use their findings to inform conservation planning and recovery efforts for these endangered species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 26, 2023

Young adult women may be more likely to engage in risky behavior when descending stairs than young adult men

An observational study of college students found that young women are more likely to engage in risky behaviors like multitasking and conversation while descending stairs. This is compared to young men who were less likely to engage in these behaviors, suggesting that women may be more distracted while descending stairs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023

Essential cell death-regulating mechanisms important for recovery from SARS-CoV infection and skin injury discovered

Researchers have uncovered a novel mechanism of cell death regulation, shedding light on its significance during conditions such as SARS-CoV infection and skin injury. The study reveals that the cleavage of cFLIP restrains cell death during viral infection and tissue injury, favoring tissue repair.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Older women at risk for Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from yoga

A UCLA Health study found that Kundalini yoga increased activity in a region of the brain impacted by stress and associated with memory decline. The study suggests that this type of yoga, which combines movement and meditation, may be beneficial for older women at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

A cross-seasonal connection found between Arctic sea ice and Eurasian summertime temperature

Research reveals a significant cross-seasonal connection between Arctic sea ice and Eurasian summertime temperature fluctuations. The study found that changes in Arctic sea ice influence atmospheric waves over the North Atlantic–Barents-Kara Sea–Central Asia regions, leading to corresponding changes in temperature fluctuations.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJul 26, 2023

Breakthrough in solid-state storage innovates how biological materials are stored and handled

Researchers at California Polytechnic State University have developed a novel method for storing biological materials such as RNA and proteins in a solid-state, resembling a pill or tablet that dissolves in water for on-demand use. This innovation overcomes current limitations in storage and handling, making it easier to access these m...

SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 26, 2023

Employment dynamics: a closer look at rising exports and ICT penetration

The article explores how export diversification and ICT shape employment patterns, with research highlighting the importance of diversified trade baskets to minimize economic uncertainties. Tailored trade policies can unlock employment opportunities for both high-skilled and low-skilled workers, fostering sustainable growth.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalJournal of International Commerce Economics and Policy·DateJul 26, 2023

Investors want better climate risk disclosure

A study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that institutional investors demand disclosure of climate risk due to its impact on a company's health and performance. The survey of 439 institutional investors showed that mandatory disclosure has an effect on investors' decisions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalReview of Financial Studies·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2023