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Science News for July 3, 2023


Three things to know: Climate change’s impact on extreme-weather events

Researchers investigated climate change's effect on extreme weather events like wildfires and found a 'worst-case' scenario could lead to significant increases in intensity, frequency, and duration. The study emphasizes the need for proactive measures, including emission reductions and adaptation strategies, to build resilience.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2023

Perceiving the smell of lemon, geranium or eucalyptus: a study on the electrical signals behind human olfaction

Researchers from SISSA have measured the electrical activity of cells in human olfactory epithelium, revealing a complex communication process between neurons and support cells. The study also explores reactions to various odorant molecules and sets the stage for investigating anomalies related to COVID-19's impact on smell.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

Supportive communities can help increase breastfeeding rates for moms, MU study finds

A new study from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that supportive communities and education about breastfeeding health benefits can boost breastfeeding rates, particularly in rural areas where it is less common. The study also showed that reduced stigma surrounding breastfeeding occurred with increased community exposure.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPublic Health Nursing·TypeSurvey·DateJul 3, 2023

Synthesis of a glycan hairpin

A collaborative work led by CIC bioGUNE successfully designed and synthesized a carbohydrate sequence capable of folding into a stable secondary structure. The glycans were generated using an automated synthesizer, which rapidly prepared the scaffold, revealing potential new properties for sugars in medicine, catalysis, or nanotechnology.

SourceCIC bioGUNE·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 3, 2023

New brain circuit for epilepsy uncovered

A new study by investigators from the Brigham and Women’s Hospital found that lesions associated with epilepsy are connected to a common brain network, suggesting the brain connections disrupted by the lesions are key. This discovery may have clinical implications for predicting epilepsy risk and targeting treatments.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Neurology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023

Satellite-based disaster early warning systems can improve evacuation measures in remote Asian communities

Researchers assessed the effectiveness of current early warning systems and presented a case for utilizing satellite-based QZSS-EWS to improve these systems. Implementing such technology alone is insufficient, requiring policymakers to undertake subsequent policy and practical actions to upgrade these systems.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalEmergency Management Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

AI and CRISPR precisely control gene expression

A new study by researchers at NYU and the New York Genome Center combines deep learning with CRISPR screens to control human gene expression. The model predicts on- and off-target activity of RNA-targeting CRISPRs, enabling precise gene controls for developing new therapies.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJul 3, 2023

Understanding the regulation of apicoplast gene expression in the malaria parasite

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology identified ApSigma, a nuclear-encoded apicoplast RNA polymerase σ subunit that coordinates gene expression with the life cycle of Plasmodium falciparum and host circadian rhythm. Melatonin is shown to increase apicoplast transcription and expression of the apSig gene.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

Study shows Kant’s influence on Georges Canguilhem, who anticipated concepts current in medicine today

French philosopher Georges Canguilhem was influenced by Immanuel Kant's ideas on 'technique', 'technical activity' and 'practice', which shaped his conception of medicine. Canguilhem prioritized the egalitarian principles symbolized by the French Republic's motto, emphasizing the importance of social well-being in health.

Quantum physics secures digital payments

Researchers at the University of Vienna have developed an unconditionally secure system for digital payments using quantum mechanics. The new protocol, which utilizes single photons, ensures that transactions cannot be duplicated or diverted by malicious parties.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 3, 2023

A novel hydrogel may be a beacon of hope for infertility and fertility challenges

A novel hydrogel has been developed to induce endometrial regeneration and elucidate its mechanism, offering new hope for patients struggling with infertility. The gel, made from uterus-derived decellularized extracellular matrix, successfully regenerated the endometrium in mice, creating a favorable environment for embryo implantation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 3, 2023

Vaginal suppository containing lactobacilli can prevent recurrent cystitis in women

A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that administering vaginal suppositories with Lactobacillus crispatus can restore a healthy balance of vaginal microbiota and prevent recurrent cystitis. The researchers discovered that postmenopausal women with RC had significantly different bacterial communities compared to those w...

SourceOkayama University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023

Brief admissions by self-referral can help adolescents with self-harming or suicidal behaviour

A study led by Lund University researchers found that brief admissions by self-referral can effectively reduce the need for acute visits, admissions, and longer treatment periods among adolescents with borderline personality disorder. The method empowers patients to determine when they need treatment, enhancing their autonomy and sense...

SourceLund University·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·DateJul 3, 2023

Virtual exploration of chemical reactions

Researchers from Hokkaido University developed a centralized, interactive platform to explore and analyze chemical reaction pathways. The Searching Chemical Action and Network (SCAN) platform utilizes AFIR calculations to provide an interactive reaction pathway map that can be searched and viewed.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalDigital Discovery·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2023

Study suggests resistance training can prevent or delay Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that four weeks of resistance training with weights reversed behavioral and physical alterations characteristic of the disease in mice. The study's results suggest that physical activity can be an effective strategy to avoid or delay the appearance of symptoms of sporadic Alzheimer’s, which may be associated with aging.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateJul 3, 2023

Redox-based transistor as a reservoir system for neuromorphic computing

Researchers develop an ionic device utilizing redox reactions to achieve a high number of reservoir states, enabling efficient complex nonlinear operations. The device demonstrated remarkable performance in solving second-order nonlinear dynamic equations and predicting future values with low mean square prediction error.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

Limiting loss in leaky fibers

Researchers have figured out why some air-filled fibre designs work so much more efficiently than others. Dr Leah Murphy and Emeritus Professor David Bird from the University of Bath developed a theoretical understanding of the relationship between fibre structure and leakage loss.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalOptica·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2023

New study reveals abrupt shift in tropical Pacific climate during Little Ice Age

A recent study analyzed sediment cores from a Philippine lake, revealing a 200-year period of drought in the western Pacific during the Little Ice Age. The researchers attribute this change to zonal gradients in sea surface temperature, which highlights the importance of understanding past climate dynamics for predicting future climate...

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

Serious monkey business: Chimpanzee heart check via digital camera

A team of researchers from the University of South Australia used a contact-free technique to extract cardiac signals from chimpanzees by filming subtle movements in their face or thorax. The study found that chimpanzees show similar responses to human babies when experiencing fear, excitement, or joy, and that nature scenes can calm t...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBehavior Research Methods·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2023

Counting Africa's largest bat colony

A new method developed by the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior has counted Africa's largest bat colony using GoPro cameras and artificial intelligence. The estimate puts the colony at between 750,000 and 1,000,000 bats, making it the largest for bats by biomass anywhere in the world.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEcosphere·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 3, 2023

A better way to create space

Researchers at KAUST have developed a simple technique to create highly porous organic polymers, known as poly(aryl thioether), for applications in photocatalysis and optoelectronics. The material exhibits high surface area and tunable porosity, making it suitable for removing organic micropollutants and toxic mercury ions from water.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 3, 2023

Cutting edge transistors for semiconductors of the future

Researchers at Lund University have created ferroelectric 'grains' that control tunnel junctions in transistors, allowing for individual-level control and optimization of material properties. This breakthrough enables the development of new circuit architectures for neuromorphic computing and energy-efficient semiconductors.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 3, 2023

State medical cannabis laws not associated with reduced use of opioid or nonopioid pain treatments

A study of commercially insured adults with chronic noncancer pain found that state medical cannabis laws did not lead to a reduction in the use of opioid or nonopioid pain treatments. The researchers also suggested slow implementation and reluctance among healthcare leaders may have contributed to these findings.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 3, 2023

Transplantation of genome-edited iPS cells delivers therapeutic molecules in vivo

This study demonstrates the potential of cell therapy using genome-edited iPS cells secreting therapeutic molecules, such as mNAGA, to supply GLA activity in vivo. Transplantation of these cells improved GLA activity in the liver, but not in other organs, and future enhancements are possible through genome editing.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·JournalCell Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 3, 2023

The sacrifice within – how collagen’s weak bonds help protect tissue

Scientists at Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies discovered that collagen's weak sacrificial bonds rupture before the main structure, protecting tissue from excessive force. This mechanism helps to localize damage and promote recovery by dissipating mechanical stress and reducing oxidative stress in the body.

SourceHeidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS)·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 3, 2023

Inadequate energy intake affects female athletes

A new study from Aarhus University reveals that female athletes who consume too little energy through their diet in comparison to their training volume experience negatively impacted muscles' ability to respond to training. The study shows that insufficient energy intake can lead to changes in the hormonal system, including a decrease ...

SourceAarhus University·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 3, 2023

Highly oxidizing magma of the early Earth

Researchers found that the early Earth's magma ocean was significantly more oxidized than today's mantle, leading to a CO2-rich atmosphere rich in SO2. This high oxidation state likely played a crucial role in supplying biologically available organic molecules and shaping the planet's habitability.

SourceEhime University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJul 3, 2023

Fewer teens now perceive themselves as overweight – international study of more than 745,000 adolescents

A recent international study of over 745,000 adolescents from 41 countries found a decrease in those who overestimate their weight and an increase in those who underestimate it. This shift could reduce the effectiveness of public health interventions aimed at weight reduction in young people, as they may make unhealthy lifestyle choices.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalChild and Adolescent Obesity·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023

Birds raise fewer young when spring arrives earlier in a warming world

A new study found that birds produce fewer young if they start breeding too early or late in the season, with climate change resulting in earlier springlike weather. The researchers report that birds have been unable to keep pace with the changes, leading to a mismatch between the start of spring and birds' readiness to reproduce.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023

Pathogenic bacteria use a sugar in the intestinal mucus layer to infect the gut, study shows

A new study reveals that pathogenic bacteria fuel their growth by consuming sialic acid, a key component of the protective intestinal mucus layer. The findings suggest a potential treatment target for intestinal bacterial infections and chronic diseases linked to gut bacteria, including IBD and celiac disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJul 3, 2023