When growth becomes a weakness
Cancer cells' uncontrolled growth leads to a loss of ability to divide due to genetic damage accumulation. Simultaneous treatment with growth and division inhibitors can restore cellular function.
Science News for November 17, 2023
Fishing chimpanzees found to enjoy termites as a seasonal treat
Researchers found that chimpanzees extract termites from mounds most successfully when rainfall increases, until a threshold of 200mm is reached. This suggests that termite fishing is a seasonal activity for chimpanzees, with the best opportunities during the early wet season.
Educational outcomes for children at 7 to 9 years of age after birth at 39 vs 40 to 42 weeks’ gestation
Research of 155,000 births finds birth at 39 weeks' gestation is linked to better educational outcomes compared to earlier or later births. No significant differences in numeracy and literacy skills were found between children born at 39 versus 40-42 weeks
UChicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering Faculty boost vaccines and immunotherapies with machine learning to drive more effective treatments
Researchers used machine learning to guide high-throughput experimental screening of small molecules, finding ones that improve vaccine response and reduce inflammation. The team discovered a molecule that outperforms the best immunomodulators on the market, with potential applications in cancer treatment.
Shedding light on unique conduction mechanisms in a new type of perovskite oxide
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new type of perovskite oxide with remarkable dual-ion conductivity, promising to revolutionize the development of solid-oxide fuel cells and proton ceramic fuel cells. The material's unique ion migration mechanisms, involving the formation of dimers and efficient proton mig...
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
The economic damage of a pandemic is inevitable, but targeted interventions can save more lives and lessen its social impact
Research published in Nature Human Behaviour suggests that lockdowns and voluntary behaviour change lead to similar economic damage, with lockdowns saving more lives. The study's model simulates the balance between health and economic impact, predicting health-economic outcomes of political and health measures during a pandemic.
SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 17, 2023
Lung cancer cells’ ‘memories’ suggest new strategy for improving treatment
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have found that lung cancer cells retain a 'memory' of their healthy cell counterparts, which could be exploited to improve treatment with KRAS inhibitors. Eliminating these AT1-like cells improves treatment response to the drugs.
SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalCancer Discovery·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Scientists produce human norepinephrine neurons from stem cells, with significant implications for researching diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have successfully generated human norepinephrine neurons from stem cells using a key protein called ACTIVIN-A. These LC-NE neurons may serve as models for disease in humans, enabling scientists to screen drugs and answer questions about neurodegeneration.
BU researchers develop new method to help with analysis of single cell data
Researchers from Boston University have developed a novel tool called DecontPro to identify and remove unwanted background noise in single-cell sequencing data. This approach enables more accurate analysis of cells and their molecular characteristics, offering new insights into diseases and conditions.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2023
Study reveals surprising link between malnutrition and rising antibiotic resistance
Researchers found that micronutrient deficiencies in early life can lead to significant shifts in the gut microbiome, promoting antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi. The study suggests that addressing undernutrition may be crucial in fighting antibiotic resistance.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Groundbreaking study sheds light on sporadic early-onset Alzheimer's disease: potential target for novel treatment
A recent study investigated sporadic early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD), focusing on its clinical features and biomarkers. EOAD patients were found to have more severe executive function deficits, bilateral precuneus atrophy, and elevated phosphorylated tau protein levels compared to late-onset AD patients.
Children’s brains shaped by their time on tech devices, research to-date shows
A review of 23 years of neuroimaging research finds that screen time affects the pre-frontal cortex and other brain regions involved in executive functions, memory, and processing. Digital experiences may shape children's brains and influence cognitive development, with both positive and negative impacts.
UK’s Rural Physician Leadership Program, Anthem Medicaid announce new rural medicine scholarships
The program provides training and resources to equip students to become doctors practicing in rural areas. The scholarships aim to increase the number of physicians in underserved communities, addressing high rates of chronic diseases.
Seconded employees provide more novel and innovative ideas, finds new research
A new research study found that seconded employees select more novel and innovative ideas, influencing permanent staff to do the same. This suggests a simple intervention of leveraging seconded employees can significantly boost the acceptance of innovative ideas, empowering managers to foster a more innovative culture.
Ingestible vital signs monitor shows promise in first-in-human trial
A new device developed by Brigham researchers detected an opioid-overdose in preclinical models and captured respiratory rates and heart rates in patients with sleep apnea. The study's results could transform how life-threatening events are monitored and prevented.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalDevice·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 17, 2023
Ingestible electronic device detects breathing depression in patients
Researchers developed an ingestible capsule to measure vital signs from within the GI tract, detecting sleep apnea episodes and breathing rate depression. The device shows promise for early detection of respiratory changes, including those caused by opioids or asthma/COPD.
HKU Engineering ‘Super Steel’ team develops new ultra stainless steel for hydrogen production
The University of Hong Kong's 'Super Steel' team has developed a novel stainless steel with superior corrosion resistance, enabling its potential application in green hydrogen production from seawater. The new steel exhibits comparable performance to current industrial practices using Titanium while being much cheaper.
Putting an end to plastic separation anxiety
Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and JBEI developed a simple
Research spotlight: prescribing of benzodiazepines in a homeless veteran population
A study analyzing a large VA database found that homeless veterans were less likely to receive benzodiazepine prescriptions but more likely to receive risky prescriptions. This raises concerns about safe prescribing practices for this vulnerable population, who are at high risk of substance use disorder and overdose death.
Discovery of hemoglobin in the epidermis sheds new light on our skin's protective properties
A recent study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology has revealed that hemoglobin is present in the epidermis, the outermost layer of our skin. This discovery adds a new facet to understanding the skin's defense mechanisms against aging and cancer.
State reporting requirements for involuntary holds, court-ordered guardianship, and the national firearm background check system
The study highlights substantial heterogeneity in NICS reporting requirements for mental health prohibitions and a lack of clarity around processes. This raises questions about the ability of NICS to prevent firearm purchases or possession by individuals with court-identified risk of violence.
Unravelling the secrets of neurodegenerative diseases, one protein at a time
Researchers developed a new technique, STAPull, to detect protein aggregates in neurological conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. This innovation enables early diagnosis using biomarkers, potentially improving treatment options and quality of life.
New study reveals the genetics of human head shape
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh and KU Leuven identified 30 genetic regions associated with head shape, shedding light on the biological basis of craniosynostosis. The study also found that many genes play key roles in early head formation and bone development.
Following a Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of cognitive decline in older people
A Mediterranean diet has been found to reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults, according to a new study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research. The study, which involved over 840 participants aged 65+, reveals that adherence to the Mediterranean diet is inversely associated with long-term cognitive decline.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
A deep-sea fish inspired researchers to develop supramolecular light-driven machinery
Scientists created a supramolecular machine that efficiently converts azobenzenes to their metastable conformation using visible light. The approach, inspired by the deep-sea fish vision system, overcomes limitations of traditional photoswitchable molecules.
Green growth loses weight as a consensus position in the European Parliament
A study analyzing European Parliament politicians' views on degrowth and green growth reveals a surprising lack of consensus on both sides. Despite its popularity among centre-right MEPs, green growth is seen as a more divisive concept than previously thought, with no clear majority supporting it.
First comprehensive guideline on using biomarkers for monitoring Crohn’s disease
The American Gastroenterological Association released a new guideline recommending the use of biomarkers to help manage Crohn’s disease. Biomarkers such as C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin can measure levels of inflammation, helping doctors assess disease activity and guide treatment decisions.
SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 17, 2023
Deep dive on sea level rise: new modelling gives better predictions on Antarctic ice sheet melt
Researchers have improved the accuracy of past Antarctic ice sheet melt predictions, providing a more realistic forecast of future sea level rise. The new model suggests a contribution of 9.8 meters from the Antarctic ice sheet, reducing previous estimates of 20-52cm by 2100.
USDA selects University of Illinois team to study spring dust storms over Midwestern rural areas
The US Department of Agriculture has selected a team from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment to conduct research on spring dust storms. The study aims to better understand and mitigate the impacts of these events in Midwestern rural areas.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·DateNov 17, 2023
In the fight against malaria-carrying mosquitoes, just add soap
A new study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that adding small quantities of liquid soap to some classes of pesticides can boost their potency by more than ten-fold. This discovery is promising news as malaria-carrying mosquitoes display an increasing resistance to current insecticides.
LSU Health’s Bailey to receive prestigious national award
Rahn Baily, MD, has made significant contributions to the field of psychiatry and healthcare reform through his research on health disparities, violence, and mental illness. He will receive the prestigious Solomon Carter Fuller Award for his outstanding achievements in addressing pressing societal needs.
Older adults with alcohol use disorder experience improved quality of life through alcohol treatment
Recent research from the University of Southern Denmark suggests that even modest reductions in alcohol consumption and participation in treatment can improve quality of life for older adults aged 60 and above with notable alcohol intake. A study utilizing data from the Elderly Study found significant improvements across all domains, i...
SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalAlcohol Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 17, 2023
New research suggests plants might be able to absorb more CO2 from human activities than previously expected
Researchers found that a more complex climate model projects stronger and sustained carbon uptake by plants until the end of the 21st century. This could lead to a larger impact on mitigating climate change through nature-based solutions like reforestation.
Benefits of adolescent fitness to future cardiovascular health possibly overestimated
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet found a weaker association between adolescent physical fitness and later cardiovascular disease risk. High BMI remained a strong individual risk factor for cardiovascular disease in late adolescence.
Scientists have solved the damselfly color mystery
Researchers at Lund University mapped extensive colour variation in female bluetail damselflies, finding a specific genomic region drove the emergence of male-like females. This genetic variation has been maintained through balanced natural selection over long evolutionary time periods.
Accelerating the phase identification of multiphase mixtures with deep learning
Researchers developed a deep learning model that can identify previously unknown quasicrystalline phases in multiphase crystalline samples. The model achieved a prediction accuracy of over 92% and successfully detected an unknown phase in Al-Si-Ru alloys.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 17, 2023
A potential early esophageal cancer antigen: DDX53
Researchers found that tumor-resident T-cell receptor sequences showed high complementarity with the cancer testis antigen DDX53, suggesting an immune response that selects for DDX53-negative cells. This association was correlated with worse disease-free survival rates, highlighting a potential early esophageal cancer antigen.
Nanoplastics promote conditions for Parkinson’s across various lab models
A novel study suggests that nanoparticles of polystyrene plastic can interact with the protein alpha-synuclein in the brain, promoting conditions for Parkinson's disease. This finding raises concerns about the impact of environmental factors on human biology and highlights the need for further research.
SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateNov 17, 2023
Miniature device offers peace of mind for diabetics
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a miniature, injectable glucose biosensor and wearable device that enables user-friendly, minimally-invasive continuous glucose monitoring. The device addresses challenges associated with existing CGMs, including size and skin tone compatibility.
First human clinical trial for pill-sized device that monitors breathing from the gut
A new pill-sized device has been developed to monitor vital signs like breathing and heart rate from inside humans. The device, known as the VM Pill, was tested in a clinical trial and showed accurate results in detecting breathing stops and monitoring respiration rates with high accuracy.
Environment and wallet benefit from redispensing cancer pills
Researchers at Radboud University Medical Center found that redispensing unused cancer medications can result in significant cost savings and reduced waste. The study, published in JAMA Oncology, suggests that by reissuing up to two-thirds of wasted medicine packaging, annual savings could amount to tens of millions of euros.
SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Consumption of antibiotics in the community back to pre-pandemic levels in the European Union and European Economic Area
Community antibiotic consumption in the EU increased by 18.8% between 2021 and 2022, reversing a significant decline seen during the pandemic. The resurgence of infections may have contributed to the rebound, but highlights the need for continued prudent use of antibiotics.
SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2023
Heart repair via neuroimmune crosstalk
Researchers discovered that adrenergic signals from the autonomic nervous system determine whether macrophages multiply and migrate into damaged heart tissue. This communication also plays a crucial role in regenerating heart muscle tissue.
SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Cheap medicines prevented migraine as well as expensive ones
Researchers found that three medicines - CGRP inhibitors, amitriptyline, and simvastatin - had a better preventive effect on migraine than traditional beta blockers. This discovery could have significant implications for healthcare costs, as the cheaper alternatives may offer similar treatment effects.
Idai vs. Impalas: New study shows in real-time what helps mammals survive a natural disaster
A team of researchers used trail cameras and GPS collars to track the effects of Cyclone Idai on Gorongosa National Park's mammal community. They found that body size was a key predictor of survival, with smaller animals more vulnerable to the storm's impact.
SUTD researchers developed a quick and easy method of testing antimicrobial susceptibility
A novel electrical impedance-based microfluidic platform provides rapid and accurate antimicrobial susceptibility testing within an hour, eliminating the need for long-term bacterial culture. The platform reduces human error and increases reliability, making it a promising tool in combating antimicrobial resistance.
HKU State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences provides a roadmap for unlocking the brain secrets of social media
A team of international experts is pushing for evidence-based policy making by investigating the neural mechanisms underlying social media usage. Current studies have shown that excessive use can affect brain systems related to motivation, emotion, and cognition.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023
Researchers fix the chirality of helical proteins
Researchers have developed a method to control and fix the chirality of helical proteins by synthesizing molecules with achiral components and introducing chiral elements. The method slows down chirality inversion by a factor of 10^12, enabling stable α-helices for years.
TTUHSC’s La-Beck to study cancer drug delivery via nanoparticles
Researchers investigate nanoparticles for cancer treatment, hoping to reduce side effects and improve efficacy. La-Beck's lab aims to understand the body's interaction with nanoparticles and their impact on tumor growth and immune responses.
HKU develops novel ‘AI virtual patients’ diagnostic application Breaking spatial and geographical barriers for medical training Revolutionizing global medical education exchanges
The University of Hong Kong has developed an innovative 'AI virtual patients' diagnostic application that leverages generative AI technology to provide personalized patient cases for medical students. This initiative enhances professional skills, improves patient history-taking accuracy, and addresses geographical barriers in medical e...
Porous platinum matrix shows promise as a new actuator material
Researchers at Hamburg University of Technology developed a porous platinum matrix with tiny pores, increasing energy conduction and mechanical stability. The material shows promise as an actuator material and potentially as a catalyst for chemical reactions.
Significant "post-COVID" resurgence in invasive meningococcal disease
A significant post-COVID resurgence in invasive meningococcal disease has been observed in France, with a notable increase in cases among young people aged 16-24. The study reveals that the disease has returned to pre-pandemic levels, with some serogroups targeting different age groups.
SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalJournal of Infection and Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2023
Higher-dose fluvoxamine and time to sustained recovery in outpatients with COVID-19
A randomized clinical trial of 1,175 participants found that treatment with higher-dose fluvoxamine did not improve time to sustained recovery in outpatients with mild to moderate COVID-19. The study compared fluvoxamine 100 mg twice daily for 13 days to placebo.
Evidence of climate change in the North Atlantic can be seen in the deep ocean, study finds
A study published in Science presents records from North Atlantic sediments that agree with recent surface and deep ocean warming and freshening. The research shows a connection between the surface and deep ocean throughout the last 1,200 years.
SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2023
Mass Eye and Ear researchers develop potential glaucoma treatment strategy to guide stem cells to the retina
A multidisciplinary team at Mass Eye and Ear has identified a promising new strategy for glaucoma cell replacement therapy by guiding stem cells to the retina. The researchers created RGCs out of stem cells and used chemokines to guide them to their correct positions within the retina.
SourceMass Eye and Ear·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2023