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Science News for July 27, 2023


‘Time-traveling’ pathogens in melting permafrost pose likely risk to environment

A new study suggests that ancient pathogens trapped in melting permafrost could cause significant ecological damage, with up to 3% of invasive pathogens becoming dominant. The researchers found that these 'time-traveling' pathogens could lead to unpredictable results, including up to one-third of host species dying out.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2023

Canada ‘falling behind’ in efforts to lessen teen vaping, UBCO researcher says

A UBCO researcher says Canada is falling behind in developing effective intervention programs to stop young people from beginning to vape. The study analyzed government-funded campaigns and found that many relied on telling teens about physical health harms, which may not be enough to prevent vaping uptake.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeContent analysis·DateJul 27, 2023

Complex brain cell connections in the cerebellum more common than believed

Researchers found that nearly all Purkinje cells in the human cerebellum have multiple primary dendrites, which contradicts the traditional understanding of a one-to-one relationship between climbing fibers and Purkinje cells. This discovery was made possible by analyzing thousands of cells from both human and mouse tissue using immuno...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

New research reveals historic migration’s link to present-day implicit racial bias

Research found that counties with larger Black populations during the Great Migration (1930) showed stronger implicit bias against Black people among White respondents. The study supports the Bias of Crowds theory and highlights the need for structural solutions to combat racial inequity.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Investigators identify translation gaps in instrument that measures nursing practice environment

Researchers have identified translation gaps in the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index, a tool measuring nursing practice environments. The study found that half of available translations require additional cultural equivalence or psychometric evaluation, highlighting an area for improvement to support worldwide quali...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalNursing and Health Sciences·DateJul 27, 2023

Sri Lanka floods easier to predict with India weather tool

Researchers at the University of Reading have discovered a link between Indian weather forecasting techniques and predicting extreme rainfall in Sri Lanka. By analyzing wind patterns and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, they can identify areas prone to heavy rainfall, allowing communities to better prepare for deadly natural disasters.

SourceUniversity of Reading·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJul 27, 2023

Successful mentorship program in Latin America leads to more Fracture Liaison Services, finds new review

A new review describes the development and impact of a Latin American mentorship program for Fracture Liaison Services (FLS), resulting in 64 FLSs getting started and providing coverage for over 17,200 patients. The program also supports the establishment of active communities of mentors across Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·TypeSurvey·DateJul 27, 2023

Solar batteries: a new material makes it possible to simultaneously absorb light and store energy

Researchers at the University of Córdoba have designed a solar battery that can absorb light and store energy using a new material composed of 2D carbon nitride. This device combines optical simulations and photoelectrochemical experiments to achieve high performance, with potential applications in various fields.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Fiber-infused ink enables 3D-printed heart muscle to beat

Researchers at Harvard developed a fiber-infused ink that allows 3D-printed heart muscle cells to align and contract like human heart cells, enabling the creation of functional heart ventricles. The innovation can be used to build life-like heart tissues with thicker muscle walls, paving the way for regenerative therapeutics.

Fusion model hot off the wall

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new fusion model that accurately predicts the rotational temperature of hydrogen molecules near the walls of tokamaks. This innovation enables the effective management of heat load and extends the lifetime of future fusion devices.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNuclear Fusion·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Gene therapy treats chronic pain by dialing down sodium

Researchers at NYU College of Dentistry developed a gene therapy that regulates sodium ion channel activity to alleviate chronic pain. By targeting the specific region where CRMP2 binds to NaV1.7, they were able to reduce sodium influx and quiet down neurons, providing relief from pain in cell and animal studies.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2023

Study addresses use of teleneurology to improve access to outpatient care, other inequity issues

The study found shorter wait times for telehealth appointments compared to in-person visits and no increase in community care requests after program implementation. The program improved access to timely neurological assessment and treatment for rural veterans, overcoming physical, geographical, and financial barriers.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJul 27, 2023

Osivax announces publication in The Lancet Infectious Diseases of Phase 2a data for broad-spectrum influenza vaccine candidate, OVX836

The Phase 2a trial of OVX836 showed a notable signal of protection against influenza symptoms with an 84% level of protection compared to placebo. The vaccine candidate elicited significant humoral and cellular immune responses, highlighting its potential as a universal influenza vaccine.

SourceTrophic Communications·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 2023

Breakthrough in combating multiple myeloma: For the 1st time in the world researchers destroyed most cancer cells in the bone marrow using a targeted system containing RNA therapy

A breakthrough treatment targeting bone marrow cancer cells destroyed 90% of multiple myeloma cells in laboratory tests and 60% in human tissue samples. Researchers developed lipid-based nanoparticles containing RNA molecules that silence the CKAP5 gene, inhibiting cancer cell division.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 2023

Breakthrough in Monte Carlo computer simulations

Researchers develop new algorithm to effectively investigate long-range interacting systems, reducing runtime from quadratic to linear with system size. The new method opens up new questions and applications in nonequilibrium processes, including phase separation and structure formation in cosmology and solid state physics.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalPhysical Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2023

New technology promises rapid and reliable development of new diagnostic tests

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have developed a new approach to designing molecular ON-OFF switches based on proteins, which can be used in various biotechnological and biomedical applications. The novel technique allows for faster and more accurate diagnostic tests for detecting diseases and monitoring water quality.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

A butterfly effect

Researchers at MPFI discovered Protein Kinase C delta's (PKCd) role in regulating cell-wide gene expression through synaptic plasticity. The study found that PKCd activates biochemical reactions that spread throughout the neuron, influencing gene transcription and memory formation.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Scientists vacuum animal DNA from air in a Danish forest

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen used a new method to collect airborne DNA particles and found evidence of 64 different animal species in a single football field-sized area. The findings suggest that this technique could be a valuable tool for monitoring biodiversity and tracking the spread of diseases.

Multiple sclerosis: fateful immune cell activation in gut made visible

A team of scientists has discovered that auto-aggressive T cells are activated in the gut microbiome-dependent manner in a specific area of the intestinal canal. The researchers used two-photon imaging to visualize the activity of these cells and found that activation is required for multiple sclerosis development.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2023

New language tree model suggests hybrid origin for Indo-European languages

A new study suggests Indo-European languages first arose south of the Caucasus and then branched northward to the Steppe regions before expanding throughout Eurasia. The 'hybrid' hypothesis, supported by a large dataset of modern and non-modern languages, challenges previous agriculture or pastoralism-based origin theories.

Genome analysis of 46,000-year-old roundworm from Siberian permafrost reveals novel species

Researchers discovered a new nematode species in Siberian permafrost with molecular toolkit for survival, sharing similarities with Caenorhabditis elegans. The species, Panagrolaimus kolymaensis, can survive extreme conditions by producing trehalose and mild dehydration exposure.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG)·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

CHOP and Penn Medicine researchers develop “in vivo” RNA-based gene editing model for blood disorders

CHOP and Penn Medicine researchers have developed a proof-of-concept model for delivering gene editing tools directly into diseased blood cells within the body. This approach aims to reduce costs and increase access to gene therapies for blood disorders, which currently require chemotherapy and stem cell transplants.

A unified theory of the lexicon and the mind: Researchers find common cognitive foundation for child language development and language evolution

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that child language development and language evolution share a common cognitive foundation, based on a core knowledge base. The team built a computational model that predicts word meaning extension patterns across languages and time scales, highlighting the role of visual, associative,...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2023

Listen to a star ‘twinkle’

A Northwestern University-led team developed the first 3D simulations of energy rippling from a massive star's core to its outer surface. The researchers determined how much stars should innately twinkle and converted these waves into sound waves, allowing listeners to hear both what the insides of stars and their twinkling sound like.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2023

Self-healing plastic becomes biodegradable

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have developed a biodegradable mineral plastic with self-healing properties, replacing polyacrylic acid with sustainable polyglutamic acid. The new material retains its positive properties and has been shown to degrade in just 32 days using microorganisms from forest soils.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalSmall Methods·DateJul 27, 2023

Extending a word’s meaning, whether by adult linguistic communities or by children, relies on the same cognitive foundation

A new study by Thomas Brochhagen and colleagues reveals that individual and population-level word meaning extension rely on the same cognitive foundation, involving knowledge of objects, events, properties, and relations. The study examined over 1,400 languages and developed a computational framework to understand this process.

University College Dublin researcher receives award to explore the disruptive power of macromolecular crowding in cell culture systems

A University College Dublin researcher has received a European Research Council Proof of Concept grant to investigate the disruptive power of macromolecular crowding in cell culture systems. The project aims to develop novel approaches for regenerative medicine by accelerating tissue development and improving therapeutic potential.

Exposure to like-minded sources on Facebook is prevalent but did not increase polarization during the 2020 U.S. election

A study examining Facebook users' news feeds found that reducing exposure to content from politically 'like-minded' sources had no measurable effect on political beliefs or attitudes during the 2020 US presidential election. The study also found that participants were exposed to more cross-cutting sources and less uncivil content after...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Phyllodulcin could be a potential candidate for treating Alzheimer’s disease, find Sahmyook University researchers

Researchers from Sahmyook University found that phyllodulcin, a natural sweetener found in hydrangeas, can efficiently inhibit amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregation and dissociate its aggregates in an animal model study. The study suggests that phyllodulcin may be useful in delaying the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceSahmyook University·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Transcription factors contribute to subtypes of colorectal cancers

Researchers found that expression of transcription factors contributes to different subtypes of colorectal cancers. The degree of DNA methylation varies across tissue types, with some cancers having high and others low frequency of methylation gains. Studying transcription factor expression may help determine overall survival in patien...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2023

Ancient pathogens emerging from melting ice and permafrost risk eroding ecosystems

A new study by Flinders University researchers suggests that only 1% of dormant pathogens could cause major ecological harm, leading to the loss of host organisms worldwide. The simulations showed that these ancient microbes can survive, evolve, and become dominant in modern ecosystems, posing a substantial danger.

SourceFlinders University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 27, 2023

Bacteria like cholera may be crucial in the development of new antibiotics

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered how a bacterium called Vibrio alginolyticus moves using sodium ions, which could lead to new targets for antibiotics. The study provides insights into the flagellum's movement and may help develop novel antibiotics to combat antibiotic resistance.

Motivation and pleasure deficits play important role in social functioning across psychiatric disorders

A recent study published in Nature Mental Health reveals that amotivation and anhedonia are key factors in determining social functioning among individuals with psychiatric disorders. The research found that these negative symptoms have a stronger impact on social functioning than expressive dysfunction, especially in patients with sch...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Teens need consistent positive messaging in multicultural environments

A UC Davis study surveyed 700 teens in multicultural public schools, finding that only 4% received consistent and high levels of multicultural messaging and affirmation. The researchers suggest promoting multicultural socialization across school, peer, and family settings to improve adolescents' academic functioning.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Youth and Adolescence·TypeSurvey·DateJul 27, 2023

Nerve cells in the brain can halt all movement in the body – even breathing

Researchers have discovered a group of nerve cells in the midbrain that can completely stop all forms of movement and slow down breathing and heart rate when stimulated. The study provides valuable insight into how the nervous system controls movement and may help understand Parkinson's disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory restores cold sensation in amputees’ phantom limbs

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory developed a wearable thin-film thermoelectric cooler that enables amputees to perceive temperature sensations in their phantom limbs. The technology has practical applications for improved prostheses, haptics, and pain management.

SourceJohns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·TypeObservational study·DateJul 27, 2023

MIND diet study shows 'short-term' impact on cognition

A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the MIND diet had a significant improvement in cognition during the first two years, but no significant difference in three-year changes. The study enrolled 604 people with suboptimal diets and family history of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 27, 2023

The genetic heritage of our extinct ancestors

Researchers discovered a 40,000-year-old gene flow event between an extinct gorilla ghost population and the common ancestor of eastern lowland gorillas and mountain gorillas. This exchange introduced genes that are still present in today's eastern gorillas, including a bitter taste receptor gene under positive selection.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 27, 2023

Study reveals vital role of supportive managers to minimize physical restraint use in care homes

A Cochrane review reveals that organizational interventions can reduce the use of physical restraints in care home residents by 14%, without increasing falls or fall-related injuries. Supportive managers play a crucial role in implementing these interventions, which improve knowledge, skills, and strategies among frontline staff.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 27, 2023

Unveiling the potential of radiofrequency-operated 2D biochemical sensor in the internet-of-things era

Researchers have developed ultra-thin and flexible 2D biochemical sensors with high sensitivity for detecting target substances, revolutionizing sensing technology. However, integrating these sensors into comprehensive systems for large-scale industrial manufacturing poses significant challenges.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 27, 2023

Using cosmic weather to study which worlds could support life

Researchers used a new code to test the capabilities of future giant telescopes, which could help identify potentially habitable planets. The study found that ELT and TMT can make high-resolution observations of brown dwarfs and exoplanets over a single rotation, while GMT's instruments require multiple rounds.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 27, 2023