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Science News for October 4, 2023


Does COVID-19 or COVID-19 vaccination worsen migraines?

Research published in European Journal of Neurology indicates that COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination have negligible effects on migraine severity. Among participants who reported worsening migraines, those infected were 2.5-times more likely to be concerned about migraine worsening than those vaccinated.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Neurology·DateOct 4, 2023

U.S. drinking water often contains toxic contaminants, UNM scientist warns

A new study finds that many wells and community water systems in the US contain unsafe levels of toxic contaminants, including cancer-causing substances like arsenic and lead. Climate change will exacerbate the issue, particularly in underserved communities, as clean sources of drinking water become harder to find.

SourceUniversity of New Mexico Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 4, 2023

Ketamine-related drug gives better treatment for difficult to treat clinical depression

The ESCAPE-TRD study found that esketamine nasal spray outperforms quetiapine in treating treatment-resistant major depression, with patients showing higher remission rates and reduced depressive symptoms. The results suggest esketamine as a safe and effective treatment option for those with treatment-resistant depression.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 4, 2023

Antibody therapy inspired by patient case reduced tau tangles in a preclinical model of Alzheimer’s disease

A team of researchers from Mass General Brigham has developed a monoclonal antibody that reduces abnormal tau proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease in a preclinical model. The therapy, inspired by a genetic variant that provides resistance against the disease, offers an alternative approach to existing treatments.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Research shows strong link between ADHD and car crashes in older adult drivers

A study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a significant association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and crash risk among older adult drivers. Older adults with ADHD were more than twice as likely to report traffic tickets and vehicular crashes compared to their counterparts without ADHD.

Are opioid prescription rates changing for US adolescents?

Rates of opioid prescribing to US adolescents have decreased in recent years, mainly for non-surgical procedures. Opioid prescribing for surgical indications has remained relatively stable during the same period. This analysis of Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys data from 2015-2020 reveals a significant shift in prescribing patterns.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Anesthesia·DateOct 4, 2023

Discovery of massive undersea water reservoir could explain New Zealand’s mysterious slow earthquakes

Researchers have found a large water reservoir beneath the ocean floor off New Zealand's North Island, which may be linked to the country's mysterious slow earthquakes. The discovery provides new insights into the correlation between fluids and tectonic fault movement, shedding light on the phenomenon of slow slip events.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience Advances·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 4, 2023

Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals researchers awarded five-year, $11.2 million federal grant to study esophagus cancers

Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals researchers will focus on understanding the molecular and genetic factors that trigger Barrett's esophagus development and progression to esophageal cancer. The goal is to translate discoveries into effective prevention and treatments for patients, reducing cancer mortalities.

Avatars to help tailor glioblastoma therapies

Researchers have developed a novel zebrafish xenograft platform to screen for novel treatments for glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumor. The platform uses zebrafish avatars to model glioblastoma cells from individual patients, allowing researchers to identify patient-specific targets and potential treatments.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Pandemic boosted gardening, hunting in NYS

During the pandemic, New Yorkers increased their participation in wild and backyard food activities such as gardening, hunting, and foraging. Despite a general worsening of diets, these activities may have contributed to buffering those effects, with people consuming home-produced eggs and meat, and backyard-grown fruits and vegetables.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateOct 4, 2023

Mays Cancer Center at UT Health San Antonio identifies possible markers for early metastatic lung cancer

A team of researchers at Mays Cancer Center has identified protein markers that could signal the early development of metastatic lung cancer. These markers have led to a $1.6 million grant and will pave the way for a clinical trial in patients with advanced lung cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Cornell fills data gap for volcanic ash effects on Earth systems

Researchers at Cornell University have characterized volcanic ash samples from 40 explosive eruptions to provide a comprehensive dataset. The study found that the composition of volcanic ash varies significantly with grain size, tectonic setting, and chemistry, particularly in finer particles where salts increase and glass and iron oxi...

SourceCornell University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 4, 2023

Diagnosing anthropogenic carbon emissions: a "CO2 checkup" of Earth's health

A recent study by Dr. Dongxu Yang and his team from the Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has shed light on the critical issue of anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. They conducted a campaign in Shenzhen and Nanning, using a Low-cost UAV Coordinated Carbon Observation Network (LUCCN) to monitor greenhou...

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateOct 4, 2023

Using artificial intelligence, Argonne scientists develop self-driving microscopy technique

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed an autonomous microscopy technique that uses AI to selectively target points of interest for scanning, speeding up the experimental process and allowing for greater efficiency in facilities with limited beam time. This innovative approach has the potential to accelerate scientif...

Despite denouncements, conversion practices remain prevalent for sexual and gender minority individuals - with estimates centering on 1 in 10 - and prevalence differences by country, race and sex assignment at birth

A systematic review found conversion practices affecting approximately 1 in 10 sexual and gender minority populations, with significant variations across countries, racial groups, and sex assignments. The study's results highlight the need for increased awareness and support for individuals experiencing these practices.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 4, 2023

Can AI crave a favorite food?

A team of researchers at Penn State has developed an electronic tongue that can mimic human taste preferences, providing a possible blueprint for AI that processes information more like a human being. This innovation could lead to AI-curated diets based on emotional intelligence and personalized meal offerings in restaurants.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Study identifies jet-stream pattern that locks in extreme winter cold, wet spells

Researchers have identified a new pattern in the global jet stream that locks in extreme winter cold or wet conditions over North America and Europe. The study found that this pattern, known as wave-4, triples the chances of extreme cold or wet, while also causing abnormally warm or dry conditions.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2023

BU study: Black women in the highest income bracket had a 20% higher risk of suicide compared to white women in the lowest income bracket

A new study by Boston University researchers found that Black women aged 18-65 have a 20% higher risk of suicide compared to white women in the lowest income bracket. The study analyzed data from the National Inpatient Sample database and identified factors associated with self-inflicted injuries among female hospital patients.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 2023

Birders & AI push bird conservation to the next level

A new method using big data and AI models the interactions of entire ecological communities across continents, revealing patterns of biodiversity. The collaboration between Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Cornell Institute for Computational Sustainability provides vital information for conservation efforts.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2023

Software can detect hidden and complex emotions in parents

Researchers developed a software that can accurately detect intricate details of emotions in parents, even in everyday family life. The study uses machine learning techniques to analyze facial expressions from videos taken at home, providing potential early intervention opportunities for mood and mental health disorders.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalFrontiers·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2023

Being a vegetarian may be—partly—in your genes

A genome-wide association study reveals 34 genes potentially involved in choosing a vegetarian diet, including those related to lipid metabolism and brain function. The findings suggest that genetics play a role in the ability to subsist on a vegetarian diet.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateOct 4, 2023

A human factor

Researchers have identified a crucial host protein, SND1, that plays a key role in SARS-CoV-2 replication. The virus uses its own protein NSP9 as a primer for RNA synthesis, which is facilitated by SND1 binding to negative-sense viral RNA.

Demystifying the role of plant x- and y-type thioredoxins

X- and y-type thioredoxins play a crucial role in maintaining the redox balance of photosynthesis during fluctuating light conditions. The study found that these proteins facilitate electron transport through the electron transport chain, preventing photoinhibition and promoting plant growth.

SourceOkayama University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Simultaneous large wildfires will increase in Western U.S.

Simultaneous large wildfires will become more frequent in the Western United States due to climate change, putting a strain on firefighting efforts. The study found that peak seasons for simultaneous blazes could be several weeks longer by the end of the century, affecting resource allocation and prevention strategies.

Graphene oxide reduces the toxicity of Alzheimer’s proteins

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have shown that graphene oxide nanoflakes can reduce the accumulation of misfolded amyloid peptides in yeast cells, which are similar to human neurons affected by Alzheimer's disease. This suggests that graphene oxide may hold great potential for treating neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

New study reveals Australian Long COVID response lagging

The Australian Long COVID services lack several categories, including early investigation, accessibility, and trustworthy public health information. Researchers propose building a response on US and UK guidelines that prioritize early detection, mental health support, and referral to multidisciplinary clinics.

SourceRMIT University·JournalPublic Health Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 4, 2023

Wastewater surveillance research provides a 12-day lead time for RSV season: new study

A new study using wastewater surveillance has predicted the start of the annual RSV season 12 days early, allowing hospitals to prepare and allocate resources effectively. The study used real-time wastewater measurements to forecast the surge in pediatric RSV cases, providing a population-level early warning signal for the community.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 4, 2023

Adoption of vegan dog and cat diets could have environmental benefits

A new analysis estimates that switching all pet dogs and cats to vegan diets could spare nearly 2 billion land-based livestock animals yearly in the US, and nearly 7 billion globally. This could lead to significant reductions in environmental impacts such as land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 4, 2023

Prediction of the risk of recurrence of venous thrombosis - validity of the Vienna Prediction Model confirmed

A large-scale clinical study confirms the validity of the Vienna Prediction Model in identifying low-risk patients with venous thromboembolism who may not require long-term blood thinning. The model's accuracy was found to be 5.2% after one year for patients with a low relapse risk, but adjustments were made to correct imprecision.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateOct 4, 2023

Insect cyborgs: towards precision movement

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a model predicting torque generated from electrical stimulation in stick insect leg muscles, allowing for precise control of insect movement. The study's findings have the potential to refine motor control of tuned biohybrid robots and enable adaptable devices with various applications.

SourceTohoku University·JournaleLife·DateOct 4, 2023

New wound healing research by Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine produces full thickness human bioprinted skin

Researchers at Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine successfully created full thickness human bioprinted skin, promoting quicker healing and more naturally appearing outcomes. The bioprinted skin facilitated human-like skin architecture in vivo, with improved wound closure, reduced scarring, and enhanced tissue formation.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

CHOP researchers find barriers to driver training and licensure, especially among low-income teens

Researchers from CHOP and the University of Pennsylvania found that teenagers living in lower-income areas are up to four times less likely to complete driver training and obtain their license before age 18. Long travel times to driving schools also impacted enrollment, affecting those from both high- and low-income areas.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Women living in more walkable neighborhoods have lower rates of obesity-related cancers

A new study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that women living in more walkable neighborhoods have a lower risk of obesity-related cancers, particularly postmenopausal breast cancer. Neighborhood walkability is associated with increased physical activity and reduced car-dependency.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateOct 4, 2023

Navigating moiré physics and photonics with band offset tuning

Researchers propose a new way to control moiré flatbands by adjusting the band offset of two photonic lattices, enabling the creation of novel multiresonant moiré devices. This breakthrough opens new opportunities in moiré photonics and promises to inspire future explorations into innovative moiré devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2023

Intervention for caregivers helps prevent elder mistreatment

A new intervention for caregivers has been shown to reduce elder mistreatment of older adults with chronic illness, including dementia. The Comprehensive Older Adult and Caregiver Help (COACH) program provides personalized support to caregivers, reducing mistreatment rates from 22.5% to 0%.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 4, 2023

Esketamine nasal spray: an option for patients with treatment-resistant depression

A new study reveals that esketamine nasal spray is effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, with 27.1% of patients achieving remission after 8 weeks compared to 17.6% on quetiapine XR. Long-term data shows sustained remission rates at 21.7% for esketamine NS and 14.1% for quetiapine XR.

SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 4, 2023