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Science News for October 11, 2023


Roundup ingredient connected to epidemic levels of chronic kidney disease

A Duke University study found glyphosate, active in Roundup, in high levels of wells supplying drinking water to Sri Lankan communities plagued by chronic kidney disease (CKDu). Elevated fluoride and vanadium also linked to CKDu were discovered. Glyphosate's persistence in hard water poses concerns for exposure.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

New insights on Neanderthal cuisine. Plos One has just published a study that sums up twenty years of archaeological excavations with a striking conclusion: Neanderthals were as intelligent as Homo sapiens

Neanderthals demonstrated intelligence and symbolic thought through their ability to control fire and cook food. Their varied diet consisted of cooked meats, fish, and other food sources, showcasing their advanced cognitive abilities.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

Large swings in past ocean oxygen revealed

Scientists have found evidence of past oxygen loss in the world's oceans during glacial periods, indicating that current climate change may not be permanent. The discovery was made by analyzing seafloor sediments from the past 145,000 years, which showed a build-up of cobalt during the last ice age.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeContent analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

No benefit of common shoulder treatment over placebo

A new trial suggests that ultrasound-guided lavage and steroid injections for calcific tendinopathy provide no meaningful benefits over placebo. The study's findings question the use of these treatments and should lead to a critical reconsideration of existing treatment guidelines.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 11, 2023

Mummified poop reveals pre-Columbian cultures of the Caribbean consumed a diversity of plants, with peanuts, papaya, maize, and even cotton and tobacco detected

A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that pre-Columbian Caribbean cultures consumed a wide variety of plants, including sweet potato, chili peppers, and domesticated tomatoes. The analysis also detected tobacco and cotton, challenging the traditional staple food narrative.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

New research finds greater continuity of psychotherapy after shift to telehealth

A large population-level study found that patients with mental health conditions experienced fewer disruptions in care after the transition to virtual psychotherapy, with a shorter time between appointments. Individuals with depressive, anxiety, or bipolar disorders were more likely to maintain consistent visits.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalPsychiatric Services·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 11, 2023

Plastic use in agriculture must be reduced, according to new research

A recent study emphasizes the need to reduce plastic use in agriculture to mitigate pollution and prevent toxic chemicals from entering the soil and food chain. Innovative recycling methods are crucial to protecting the environment and human health. The researchers suggest adopting a strategic approach, including responsible usage, red...

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

Sustainable living technology

New technology enables self-sustaining modules to assemble, disassemble and recycle, offering unprecedented sustainability for electronic devices. The innovation is part of a larger field of Microelectronic Morphogenesis, which aims to replicate living systems through controlled form creation.

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

Researchers unravel cross-species pain-preferential neural pathway

A study published in Nature Human Behaviour has uncovered a neural pathway preferentially involved in pain perception across species. The researchers identified the central role of the medial-dorsal thalamic nucleus in pain perception, which exhibited a more pronounced activation in response to painful stimuli.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

“Starquakes” could explain mystery signals

Researchers found distinct similarities between starquakes and earthquakes, but a difference with solar flares. The team analyzed nearly 7,000 bursts from three repeater FRB sources, comparing them to earthquake and solar flare data.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

Scientists raised key questions of solar wind–moon interaction

Researchers examine the complex interactions between solar wind and the Moon's surface environment, including small-scale magnetic fields, lunar swirls, and regolith layer dynamics. The study highlights the need for further in-situ observations to understand these processes and their implications for human activities on the Moon.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalSpace Science & Technology·DateOct 11, 2023

Absorption of light by molecules has applications in microscopy, medicine and data storage

A Brazilian physicist has developed an alternative method that reduces calculation time for simulating light absorption by molecules from two days to a few hours. This allows for high-resolution microscopy and the creation of precise 3D structures for data storage, with potential applications in medicinal treatments.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 11, 2023

Trial results indicate potential for organ transplantation without long-term immunosuppression

A new clinical trial has shown that infusing immune cells from living donors into recipients before transplantation may reduce the need for lifelong immunosuppressant medication. The treatment involves infusing donor-derived regulatory dendritic cells, which help the recipient's immune system distinguish between foreign and self-cells.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 11, 2023

Phonon engineering in Yb:La2CaB10O19 crystal for extended lasing beyond the fluorescence spectrum

Researchers successfully extend lasing beyond the fluorescence spectrum of Yb-doped La2CaB10O19 crystal through phonon engineering. Theoretical calculations predict a broadband emission spectrum with increased phonon numbers, demonstrating potential for self-frequency doubling and various applications.

NIA grant supports training of next generation of translational scientists for Alzheimer’s disease therapeutic development

Researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences will train the next generation of translational scientists in Alzheimer's disease research through a $1.4 million grant. The program aims to develop highly trained, cross-disciplinary researchers to address the complex challenges of this devastating neurodegenerative disorder.

Risk for dementia varies by ethnicity, study finds

A new study analyzing English primary care records found that hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and low HDL cholesterol confer a higher risk of dementia in South Asian and Black people compared to White individuals. The results suggest tailored dementia prevention efforts should be targeted towards minority ethnic groups.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

Significant development in mild cognitive impairment treatment revealed in Australia

A clinical trial led by Western Sydney University's NICM Health Research Institute has revealed that Sailuotong, a novel herbal extract, shows promise as a potential treatment for mild cognitive impairment. The study found improvements in memory and executive function in participants taking SLT compared to those on a placebo.

SourceNICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 11, 2023

New methodology to study the intricacies of amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have developed a new microscopy technique using STED technology to visualize individual fibers in amyloid plaques, providing higher resolution than conventional light microscopy. This breakthrough allows for better understanding of the structure and morphology of Aβ aggregates and their role in Alzheimer's disease progression.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalCell & Bioscience·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

Study links selfies to higher ratings of slimness

A study found that participants rated women's bodies as slimmer when viewed in selfie photographs compared to external perspectives. The researchers also discovered a link between self-viewing and disordered eating thoughts, suggesting potential harm from social media consumption.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

The good and bad uses of biomass for California

The study identifies 34 pathways that reduce greenhouse gases or specific air pollutants, while 13 increase harmful emissions. Effective uses of biomass include combustion for renewable energy, biodiesel production, and biogas conversion. Conversely, bad pathways include wildfires, open composting, and burning forest material.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalGCB Bioenergy·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 11, 2023

A step towards AI-based precision medicine

Researchers at Linköping University developed an AI-based method applicable to various medical and biological issues, accurately estimating people's chronological age and determining smoking status. The models identify previously known epigenetic markers used in other models, but also new markers associated with conditions.

SourceLinköping University·JournalBriefings in Bioinformatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 11, 2023

First large study of hair relaxers among black women finds increased risk of uterine cancer

A large study of hair relaxer use among Black women found a significant association between frequent or long-term use and an increased risk of uterine cancer. Postmenopausal women who used chemical hair relaxers more than twice a year or for over five years had a greater than 50% increased risk.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

Manipulating nonlinear exciton polaritons in a WS2 monolayer with artificial lattices

Researchers have created deterministic potential wells to trap and manipulate exciton polaritons in WS2 monolayers at room temperature. This enables the achievement of strong nonlinearity while maintaining thermal stability, paving the way for integrated polariton-based devices.

Experiencing record-breaking heat days affects perception of weather trends

A new study finds that experiencing record-breaking heat days increases perceptions that the weather is getting hotter, but has little effect on beliefs in climate change. Record-heat days can drive changes in the general perception that the weather is worsening, regardless of season or media coverage.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·TypeSurvey·DateOct 11, 2023

Deep self-learning enables volumetric microscopy with 3D isotropic resolution

A new deep learning approach called Self-Net improves volumetric fluorescence microscopy's 3D resolution isotropy, enhancing image quality and enabling accurate analysis of complex biological structures. This method enables fast training and inference speed, promoting discoveries in life sciences.

Doubling down on known protein families

A new study doubles the number of protein families known up until now and identifies many novel structure predictions using a massive analysis of 1.3 billion proteins. The researchers leveraged AI methodologies to unravel the roles of previously unknown protein sequences, expanding the horizons of potential functions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

Is less more? Or is less sometimes less? Examining the consumer trend toward minimalist packaging in consumable products

A new study finds that simple packaging design is positively associated with price, but not always enhances consumers' willingness to pay. The research team discovers that store-brand products and health-oriented consumers benefit from simplicity, while indulgent consumers prefer complex packaging.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateOct 11, 2023

Healthcare access is not preventing deaths among pregnant and postpartum people

A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that birthing people who died during pregnancy or postpartum had received significant amounts of hospital care. The study identified factors such as severe maternal morbidity, opioid use, and prior hospitalization as linked to pregnancy-associated deaths.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

High-speed electro-optic modulation in topological interface states of a one-dimensional lattice

Researchers have developed an ultracompact, high-speed, and energy-efficient electro-optic modulator using topological interface states in a 1D microstructure lattice. The device features a large modulation bandwidth of 104 GHz and low power consumption of 5.4 fJ/bit.

Not lazy at all: Honey bee drones

Researchers found that honey bee drones exhibit synchronized hyperactivity periods, coinciding with their flight periods, and adapt their behavior to reduce energy consumption. This study reveals the complexity of drone behavior in the hive.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAnimal Behaviour·DateOct 11, 2023

Blocking an immune molecule reduces tumor growth and prolongs survival in animal models of the most aggressive childhood cancer

Spanish researchers successfully inhibited TIM-3, an immune checkpoint molecule, promoting a proinflammatory microenvironment that boosts the antitumor response. This breakthrough could guide clinical trials for diffuse intrinsic stem glioma (DIPG), the leading cause of death in pediatric cancer.

SourceCentro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA) Universidad de Navarra·JournalCancer Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

Suppression of cancer stemness and drug resistance via BRAF/EGFR/MEK inhibition in colorectal cancer cells

Researchers discovered that inhibiting the BRAF/EGFR/MEK pathway significantly reduced cancer stemness and drug resistance in primary colorectal cancer cells. The study also identified a triple combination treatment against BRAF, EGFR, and MEK as a promising approach to block these activities and develop effective treatments.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

A UB study identifies the remains of artificial turf as an important source of pollution of the aquatic environment

Researchers found artificial turf fibers in most marine and river samples, with concentrations up to 50 times higher on surface waters. The study highlights the serious environmental impact of these fibers, including blockage of intestinal tracts and decrease in growth rates in aquatic animals.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeObservational study·DateOct 11, 2023

Warm summers and wet winters yield better wine vintages

Researchers analyzed 50 years of Bordeaux wine critic scores with weather data to show that warmer temperatures, higher rainfall, and earlier seasons yield better vintages. Climate change is predicted to increase these conditions, potentially improving wine quality, but water scarcity poses a risk.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 11, 2023

Researchers at CNIO and IDIBELL shed light on the role in lactation of a protein also crucial in breast cancer

A new study reveals that RANK protein suppression affects mammary gland functionality differently depending on pregnancy experience. In female mice, RANK suppression led to successful lactation only during the second pregnancy, suggesting a 'rescue action' by basal cells.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

New research unveils intricate mechanism behind immune system’s ability to differentiate between self and non-self antigens

A groundbreaking study sheds light on the intricate mechanism behind the immune system's ability to differentiate between self and non-self antigens. Continuous activation of self-reactive T cells is essential for maintaining equilibrium and self-tolerance through regulatory T cells.

Private renting is making you age faster

A study by the University of Adelaide found that renting leads to faster biological ageing, with negative health impacts comparable to unemployment or being a former smoker. The researchers suggest policies like ending 'no-grounds' evictions and improving conditions could mitigate these effects.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateOct 11, 2023

Cow manure to synthetic gas: How can we optimize the process?

The study uses Aspen Plus software to establish a biomass gasification model for cow manure, finding optimal conditions for syngas production. The researchers evaluated parameters such as temperature, steam-to-biomass ratio, and pressure to enhance hydrogen content, while minimizing carbon dioxide and methane emissions.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the University of California San Diego receive $8.5 million award to establish a data integration hub for NIH Common Fund supported programs

Researchers from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the University of California San Diego will lead a new data integration hub aiming to accelerate novel therapeutics and cures for diseases. The grant, worth $8.5 million, is part of the NIH Common Fund's efforts to enhance data findability, accessibility, interoperability, an...

Novel drug, NFX-179, inhibits MEK activity, prevents cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma development

Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute have identified a new drug, NFX-179, that can prevent the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma with minimal side effects. The topical application of NFX-179 gel was shown to reduce tumor formation by up to 92% in pre-clinical models.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

Groundbreaking achievement as bionic hand merges with user’s nervous and skeletal systems, remaining functional after years of daily use

A Swedish woman with a below-elbow amputation received a novel human-machine interface that integrates her residual limb with a bionic hand. The technology enables comfortable attachment and reliable control, relieving pain and improving daily life.

SourceSant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2023

Removal of magnetic spacecraft contamination within extraterrestrial samples easily carried out, researchers say

Scientists have found that magnetic contamination in lunar samples can be easily removed using standard techniques, disproving previous theories. The study's findings suggest that paleomagnetism is a powerful tool for understanding core processes and planetary evolution, enabling the long-term preservation of atmospheres.

SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateOct 11, 2023