Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 9, 2023


UC Irvine researchers discover how to better support lab grown muscle cells after transplantation.

Researchers at UC Irvine have identified a critical gene for muscle repair and regeneration, enabling the creation of muscle in the lab that can support human stem cells. The discovery has immense implications for treating various chronic muscle disorders and injuries, including rotator cuff tears and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Multinational study confirms association between CT scans in young people and increased risk of cancer

A multinational study of almost one million individuals found a strong association between exposure to radiation from CT scans in young people and an increased risk of blood cancers. The study confirms that the benefits of computed tomography outweigh the risks, but emphasizes the need for strict radiological protection measures, parti...

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalNature Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Eliminating mold after natural disasters is vital for those with mold allergy

New studies presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Annual Scientific Meeting highlight the dangers of excess mold on individuals with asthma. Effective methods for getting rid of mold and airborne allergens include HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, and UV-based technology.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 9, 2023

Scientists unveil significant increase in short-duration extreme precipitation over mountainous areas under global warming

A new study reveals a disturbing trend of increased short-duration extreme precipitation over mountainous regions in Southwest China, exacerbating climate change impacts. The research finds that these events are more frequent and intense than total precipitation, posing significant risks to lives and ecosystems.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology·DateNov 9, 2023

Language barriers may cause some children to be underdiagnosed for allergic conditions

A study found that language difficulties lead to underdiagnosis of allergic conditions like asthma and eczema in children who speak a language other than English. A case report highlights the risks of pharmacy translation software interfering with prescription filling, causing delays in securing life-saving medications.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Team creates synthetic enzymes to unravel molecular mysteries

A team of researchers developed synthetic enzymes that can control the behavior of the signaling protein Vg1, which plays a key role in vertebrate embryonic development. The study uses zebrafish to investigate how Vg1 is formed and found that it must undergo additional processing before it can be activated.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Left-handers aren’t better spatially, gaming research shows

Researchers analyzed data from over 420,000 participants across 41 countries and found no link between left-handedness and improved spatial skills. The study used a video game to measure navigational abilities and confirmed that factors like age, gender, and education do not influence hand preference and spatial ability.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 9, 2023

Understanding the dynamic behavior of rubber materials

A team of researchers has developed a novel experimental system to simultaneously measure the mechanical properties and internal structure of rubber-like materials. The study found that strain within these materials is non-uniform, depending on the shape and size of composite particles.

SourceWaseda University·JournalMechanical Systems and Signal Processing·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

KAIST proposes alternatives to chemical factories through “iBridge”

A novel computer simulation program 'iBridge' was developed at KAIST to predict gene targets for efficient production of valuable compounds in microbial cell factories. The system successfully established E. coli strains capable of producing three high-demand compounds, including panthenol and nylon components.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalCell Systems·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Study shows link between mental and physical health

A new study published in BMJ Mental Health reveals that people with severe mental health issues are almost twice as likely to experience multimorbidity, a combination of chronic diseases. The research emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to address this critical issue.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalBMJ Mental Health·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 9, 2023

Ethical, environmental and political concerns about climate change affect reproductive choices

A systematic review found that climate change-related concerns are linked to less positive attitudes towards reproduction and a desire for fewer children or none at all. The study identified four key factors: uncertainty about the future of an unborn child, environmentalist views on overpopulation and overconsumption, meeting family su...

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 9, 2023

The autism-linked gene SYNGAP1 could impact early stages of human brain development, USC study reveals

A new USC study reveals that variants of the autism-linked gene SYNGAP1 can disrupt early brain development in the cortex, a region involved in higher-order cognitive functions. The research found that disease-causing variants of SYNGAP1 alter the cells' cytoskeletons and lead to disorganized neural circuits.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Endangered thick-billed parrots at risk of losing newly identified, unprotected Sierra Madre forest habitats to logging, deforestation, study shows

Researchers tracked endangered thick-billed parrots using solar-powered satellite transmitters, revealing new critical habitat and migratory routes. Less than 20% of the newly identified habitat is protected from timber industry, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Scientists flag conflicts of interest ahead of UN plastic and chemical talks

A group of 35 scientists calls out conflicts of interest in global plastic treaty negotiations, which have hindered timely action on health and environmental issues. They recommend implementing guidelines to prevent industry influence on the UN's Science Policy Panel on chemicals, citing past examples of pollution protection dilution.

SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 9, 2023

Umbilical cord milking appears to be safe in preterm infants born after 28 weeks

A recent study suggests that umbilical cord milking is a safe procedure for preterm infants born after 28 weeks, reducing delay and risk of bleeding. The technique involves gently squeezing the cord to push blood into the newborn's abdomen, allowing for faster response times for infants in need of respiratory support.

First-ever crowd-sourced small molecule discovery and a potent SARS-CoV-2 antiviral lead compound announced by COVID Moonshot Consortium

A COVID Moonshot Consortium has made history by developing a potent SARS-CoV-2 antiviral lead compound through an unprecedented, crowdsourced approach. The project leveraged machine learning and high-throughput structural biology to identify novel compounds with excellent antiviral activity.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalScience·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Genetic switches in tumor development

Researchers at Kanazawa University found that genetic alterations underlie the dual function of activins in colorectal cancer. Mutations in genes such as Kras and Trp53 can promote tumor progression while also suppressing it, highlighting the complex role of TGF-ß signaling.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 9, 2023

Vigorous exercise, rigorous science: What scientists learned from firefighters in training

Scientists analyzed body fluids from firefighters after rigorous training to understand the effects of intense physical exercise on the body. They found a decrease in inflammatory signals, which can improve breathing, but also increase vulnerability to viral respiratory infections.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalMilitary Medical Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Ultrafast lasers on ultra-tiny chips

A new method developed by Caltech's Alireza Marandi enables the creation of ultrafast mode-locked lasers on photonic chips, opening up opportunities for compact and affordable ultrafast photonic technologies. The breakthrough could lead to significant advancements in fields like frequency metrology and precision sensing.

Lightning identified as the leading cause of wildfires in boreal forests, threatening carbon storage

Research reveals that lightning ignitions account for 77% of burned areas in intact extratropical forests, which store vast quantities of carbon. Climate change is projected to increase lightning frequency, posing a significant threat to these forests and the planet's carbon storage.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2023

Brain imaging identifies biomarkers of mental illness

A new study has identified a brain connectivity variate that predicts psychiatric disorders in adolescents. The finding provides evidence for a transdiagnostic brain-based measure underlying individual differences in developing psychiatric disorders in early adolescence.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Incheon National University researchers push the limits of gas sensing technology

The researchers propose a hybrid organic–inorganic gas sensor design that enhances gas sensing performance while maintaining sensing speed. The proposed design outperforms conventional sensors in terms of chemical sensitivity to NO2, showcasing impressive durability and higher potential for long-term installation.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

New study examines potential factors related to the development of adult-onset food allergy

A new study presents a nationwide survey of children and adults with food allergies, revealing common themes around when their allergy developed and coinciding events. The research suggests that eating too much of an allergenic food or genetics may be contributing factors to adult-onset food allergies.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 9, 2023

Social-behavioral findings can be highly replicable, six-year study by four labs suggests

A six-year study by four labs found that employing best practices in psychology research, including pre-registration and large sample sizes, resulted in highly replicable social-behavioral findings. The researchers replicated 16 novel findings with an average replication rate of 97% and no evidence of decline over repeated replications.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateNov 9, 2023

New research exposes humans’ early ecological versatility

A recent study by University of Helsinki researchers found that early humans occupied diverse environments beyond savannah-grasslands when dispersing out of Africa. This challenges the previous assumption that humans required specific habitats and suggests they were more ecologically versatile than thought.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEvolutionary Anthropology Issues News and Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 9, 2023

Community grant projects empower allergists to address barriers to allergy and asthma care

The Allergist's Foundation awards grants to support innovative projects addressing health disparities in underserved communities. Six grantees presented their work at the ACAAI National Scientific Meeting, focusing on topics such as cannabis education, food allergy management, and asthma-related outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateNov 9, 2023

New evidence that heightened pain sensitivity is linked to sympathy for opposing political views

Research reveals that individuals with heightened pain sensitivity are more likely to endorse values common to people of their opposite political persuasion. This includes stronger support for politicians from the other party and increased sympathy for opposing viewpoints.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 9, 2023

New study: gargling with salt water may help prevent Covid hospitalization

A new study suggests that gargling with salt water may be an effective remedy to improve respiratory symptoms and reduce hospitalization rates in people with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that both low- and high-dose saline regimens were associated with lower hospitalization rates compared to controls.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateNov 9, 2023

Researchers decipher the mechanism by which the MAF protein promotes breast cancer metastasis

Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified the mechanism by which the MAF protein promotes breast cancer metastasis, revealing a key interaction with the estrogen receptor. This finding opens up new therapeutic options for patients with high MAF levels, who may benefit from treatments aimed at preventing metastases.

Atomic dance gives rise to a magnet

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to transform a rare-earth crystal into a magnet by using chirality in phonons. Chirality, or the twisting of atoms' motion, breaks time-reversal symmetry and aligns electron spins, creating a magnetic effect.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

New research: Fivefold increase in the melting of Greenland's glaciers over the last 20 years

Research confirms Greenland's glaciers are melting rapidly due to climate change, with a 5-fold increase in melting over the past 20 years. The study reveals that 25 meters of ice are lost annually, contributing significantly to sea level rise and posing significant challenges for renewable energy and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Climate Change·DateNov 9, 2023

What’s the story behind ASMR clips?

ASMR clips have been found to induce short-term positive effects on mood and physiology in approximately 25-30% of viewers. EEG studies also show a decrease in delta waves associated with deep sleep, while fMRI studies reveal specific brain areas involved in the ASMR experience.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPsychology of Consciousness Theory Research and Practice·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Opioid use after C-section reduced by nearly half with non-invasive pain management device, study finds

A new non-invasive pain management device has been shown to reduce opioid use after childbirth by nearly half. The study, conducted at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, found that the device was effective in managing post-cesarean pain without the need for opioids.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 9, 2023

WHO updates its guidance on treatments for COVID-19

The World Health Organization has updated its guidance on treatments for patients with COVID-19, incorporating the latest clinical trial evidence. The new recommendations take into account changes in SARS-CoV-2 variants and immunity related to global vaccinations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 9, 2023

Photonics team develops high-performance ultrafast lasers that fit on a fingertip

Researchers have developed high-performance ultrafast lasers on nanophotonic chips, enabling compact devices for GPS-free precision navigation, medical imaging, food safety inspection and other applications. The new technology has the potential to enable futuristic chip-scale atomic clocks, biological imaging and more.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Drug screen points toward novel diabetes treatments

A drug currently in clinical trials as a cancer therapy can also stimulate pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin, revealing a new mechanism for insulin regulation in type 2 diabetes. The preclinical discovery provides a new chemical tool for probing the biology of diabetes and could lead to better treatments.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 9, 2023

Study reveals the structure of brain waves associated with memory consolidation

Researchers have discovered the temporal structure of hippocampal ripples, a type of brain wave associated with memory consolidation. The study uses topological data analysis to classify these ripples and predict their generation by different regions of the hippocampus, offering new insights into episodic memory formation.

SourceSpanish National Research Council (CSIC)·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

First live birth of a chimeric monkey using embryonic stem cell lines

Researchers in China have reported the groundbreaking achievement of creating a live birth of a chimeric monkey using embryonic stem cell lines. The study demonstrates the ability of these cells to differentiate into various tissues in vivo, opening up new possibilities for genetic engineering and species conservation. Analysis reveale...

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

C-Path’s pioneering neuroscience workshop transforms the landscape of neurological disorder therapies

The C-Path Neuroscience Annual Workshop brought together stakeholders to chart a transformative course for neurology research and drug development, focusing on chronic progressive diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Key highlights included recommendations for innovative therapies and tools to address complex disorders.

SourceCritical Path Institute (C-Path)·JournalNeurotherapeutics·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Human brain takes stock of blame

Researchers found that the brain can distinguish between human error and non-error outcomes in as little as 1,000 milliseconds. In cases of human error, the brain takes additional time to catalog the mistake and inform the body to avoid repeating it.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Smartphones and smart speakers may be able to detect alcohol intoxication by analyzing voice patterns: Study

Researchers found that changes in voice patterns predicted alcohol intoxication with 98% accuracy. The study suggests that smartphones and smart speakers could be used to deliver 'just-in-time interventions' to prevent injuries and deaths from motor vehicle accidents.

SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

Survey reveals 42% of primary care physicians are unfamiliar with biologics to treat asthma

A survey found that 42% of primary care physicians are unaware of biologic treatments for asthma, and 82% do not get necessary labs to determine treatment options. This lack of knowledge can lead to delayed referrals to asthma specialists and reduced effectiveness in managing symptoms.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 9, 2023

Understanding the role of GIP in managing diabetes and obesity

Researchers from Helmholtz Munich discovered that GIP decreases body weight by interacting with specific inhibitory neurons in the brain, offering a revolutionary approach to patients worldwide. The study reveals the underlying molecular mechanisms of GIPR:GLP-1R co-agonists and their potential as next-generation anti-obesity drugs.

Introducing: Ceramic- and glass-based passive radiative cooling materials resistance to harsh environments

Researchers have developed microporous glass and ceramic coatings that exhibit passive daytime radiative cooling and high solar reflectance, with the potential to reduce air conditioning demands and mitigate climate change. The materials maintain their properties even under harsh environments, making them suitable for large-scale outdo...

Is the US reporting system for vaccine safety broken?

The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) in the US is not meeting its standards, with reports of serious adverse events being missed or ignored. The system relies on voluntary reports from doctors and patients, but staffing issues and conflicting information have led to frustration among those who file reports.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 9, 2023

Antibodies to cow’s milk linked to increased risk of cardiovascular death

Research led by Corinne Keet at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine found a significant association between increased IgE antibodies to common foods and cardiovascular mortality. The study suggests that people with sensitization to cow's milk, peanut, or shrimp may be at increased risk of heart disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 9, 2023

AI algorithm developed to measure muscle development, provide growth chart for children

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed an AI algorithm to measure muscle development in children using MRI scans. The tool provides a standardized growth chart, allowing clinicians to track muscle mass and detect signs of sarcopenia or low lean muscle mass, enabling early intervention to prevent negative effects.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Sylvester research shows how interactions between tumor genes and microenvironment influence treatment response in multiple myeloma

A multicenter study identifies genetic and immune-related changes that impact treatment responses in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. The researchers found a complex interplay between tumor genomic features and immune microenvironment changes drives stronger treatment responses and prolonged progression-free survival.

How human faces can teach androids to smile

A recent study by Osaka University's researchers aims to bring science fiction stories closer to reality by studying the mechanical properties of human facial expressions. The team mapped out the intricacies of human facial movements using tracking markers, revealing that even simple motions can be surprisingly complex and nuanced.

SourceOsaka University·JournalMechanical Engineering Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 9, 2023

Study shows children with private insurance more likely to outgrow food allergies

A new study presents evidence that children with private insurance are more likely to outgrow food allergies compared to those with public insurance. Milk and egg allergy were the most frequently outgrown allergies in the cohort of 188 children studied, with a mean age at which food was outgrown being 5 years.

SourceAmerican College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology·JournalAnnals of Allergy Asthma & Immunology·DateNov 9, 2023

Researchers identify previously unknown step in cholesterol absorption in the gut

Scientists have identified a previously unknown pathway for dietary cholesterol absorption in the gut, which could lead to new treatments for managing cholesterol levels. An experimental drug has been found to specifically target this pathway, offering a potential new approach to controlling cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2023

UTHealth Houston researchers awarded $2.6 million NIH grant to study molecular pathways and potential strategies for treatment of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury

Researchers at UTHealth Houston are studying the impact of circadian rhythm on heart attacks and cardiac surgery, with a focus on identifying novel therapies to protect the heart. They will investigate the role of key genes and signaling pathways in modulating daytime variations in cardiac injury.