Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 24, 2023


AI predicts developmental paths in premature babies

Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed an AI model to predict long-term outcomes in extremely premature babies, identifying those at risk of intellectual disability. The model analyzed brain activity data with 80% accuracy, offering valuable information for healthcare providers and parents about expected developmental journeys.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalThe Lancet·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2023

From skyrmions to hopfions

Researchers from Jülich, China, and Sweden have created and observed stable hopfion rings in a solid, which can move along skyrmion strings, enabling flexible information carriers. The discovery breaks open new research directions for 3D magnetic particles.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature·DateNov 24, 2023

Scientists map the antigenic landscape

Researchers have successfully mapped the entire HLA class II landscape, predicting how pathogens are displayed on cell surfaces. The mapping reveals that multiple HLA variants play essential roles in autoimmune disorders and organ rejection, highlighting their potential for developing immunotherapy treatments.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 24, 2023

Researchers uncover molecular mechanism of methamphetamine binding to trace amine receptor TAAR1

A study published in Nature reveals the molecular mechanism of methamphetamine binding to the trace amine receptor TAAR1, which plays a crucial role in modulating monoaminergic systems. The researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to determine high-resolution structures of the human TAAR1-Gs protein complex stimulated by methamphetamine.

Can AI push the boundaries of privacy and reach the subconscious mind?

The European Union's AI act could enable AI to access our subconscious minds, potentially leading to manipulation. According to Ignasi Beltran de Heredia, only 5% of brain activity is conscious, and the remaining 95% operates subconsciously, making it difficult for us to control or even be aware of.

SourceUniversitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)·JournalRevista de la Facultad de Derecho de México·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 24, 2023

Clonal fish: Same genes, same environment – different fitness levels

Researchers found that genetically identical Amazon mollies exhibit differences in offspring size and reproductive output, indicating varying levels of biological fitness. The study suggests that epigenetics, stochasticity, and micro-environmental factors play a role in the emergence of individuality.

SourceTechnische Universität Berlin – Science of Intelligence·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2023

Boosting PET recycling with higher standards for laboratory experiments

Researchers establish new standards for laboratory experiments to improve PET recycling efficiency. Four engineered enzymes were tested, with LCC-ICCG outperforming the others in terms of depolymerisation rate and enzyme requirement. The study aims to accelerate the development of industrial-scale solutions for PET waste management.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2023