Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 14, 2023


Verbal nonsense reveals limitations of AI chatbots

Researchers found that even top-performing AI models can mistake nonsense sentences for natural language, highlighting the need for improvement. The study suggests that comparing human language processing to AI's could provide new perspectives on how we think.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2023

During failure of core protein quality control in the nematode C. elegans, a specialized anti-aggregation mechanism relying on pathogen response factors and lysosomal mediated degradation is triggered

In C. elegans, a specialized anti-aggregation mechanism is triggered in response to core protein quality control failure, promoting tissue-specific resilience to age-dependent protein aggregation. This mechanism relies on pathogen response factors and lysosomal mediated degradation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 14, 2023

UM School of Medicine researchers identify important new signaling molecule involved in vascular health

Researchers identified a stable NO intermediary called NO-ferroheme, which enables nitric oxide to regulate blood flow and blood pressure. The discovery provides strong evidence for the role of heme in stabilizing NO and offers potential for developing new drugs targeting disease states such as pulmonary hypertension and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Is physical activity always a good option? Study finds physically demanding occupations can lead to risk of cognitive impairment

A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that working in a medium or high occupational physical activity job increases the risk of cognitive impairment. Researchers assessed 7005 participants and found those with physically demanding work had a higher risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.

High rate of mental health problems & political extremism found in those who bought firearms during COVID pandemic

A new study suggests that people who bought firearms during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic have higher rates of recent suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, and intimate partner violence compared to other firearm owners and non-gun owners. Pandemic firearm buyers also tend to hold extreme beliefs, including anti-vaccination view...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateSep 14, 2023

Study decodes surprising approach mice take in learning

In a new study, researchers deciphered mice's behavior during reward-based learning tasks, finding they persistently blend multiple strategies. The findings suggest mice do not fully adopt optimal approaches, and their ability to shift between strategies is crucial for understanding their decision-making process.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

How do robots collaborate to achieve consensus?

Researchers proposed a novel self-organizing approach for robot swarms to achieve consensus, combining aspects of centralized and decentralized control. This method reduces uncertainty sources and enhances collective perception accuracy, enabling robots to fuse sensor information without global or static communication networks.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateSep 14, 2023

Calcium acts as missing link to dead cell clean-up

Scientists at Kyoto University have found that extracellular calcium mediates the activation of Xkr4, a protein that triggers an 'eat me' signal for immune cells to clean up dead cell debris. The binding of calcium ions to Xkr4's transmembrane helices enables its full activation.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 14, 2023

Carbon atoms coming together in space

Researchers at Hokkaido University have discovered a mechanism for carbon atoms to come together on the surface of interstellar ice grains, producing complex organic molecules. This process occurs at temperatures above 30 Kelvin and may have played a role in the origin of life on Earth.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Study: Many primary care providers & adult patients wary of discussing firearms

A new study reveals that over half of adult patients skip questioning about firearms on screening questionnaires, while surveyed primary care providers are often uncomfortable discussing firearm safety with most patients. The study suggests a need for more research and improved training on firearm-related topics for primary care clinics.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateSep 14, 2023

Switching off the cytokine storm

Researchers at EMBL Grenoble have obtained the first structure of p38α being activated by MKK6, opening up new directions for developing drugs to stop cytokine storms. The inflammatory response is triggered by a series of kinases, and inactivating p38α could prevent inflammation from occurring.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Variants in the genome interact with each other and with the environment to affect the risk of cardiovascular disease

A recent study published in Cell found that genetic variants can influence the risk of cardiovascular disease by interacting with environmental factors. For example, carriers of certain sequence variants are protected against the negative effects of alcohol consumption on coronary artery disease.

SourcedeCODE genetics·JournalCell·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2023

New tool can reveal inequitable distribution of ‘healing’ green spaces

A new UBC study used a local restorative nature index to assess the healing qualities of green space, finding that areas with the greatest need for restorative nature often have the least exposure to it. The study suggests that urban planners prioritize areas with high socioeconomic vulnerability and limited access to green spaces.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAMBIO·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

AI confirms tracheal tube position on chest radiography

An AI system by Lunit identified improperly positioned endotracheal tubes with high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for earlier repositioning and reducing complications. The study included 539 chest radiographs from three institutions and showed promising results in detecting ETT presence and improper position.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 14, 2023

Using topology, Brown researchers advance understanding of how cells organize themselves

Using computational topology, Brown researchers have developed an algorithm that profiles shapes and spatial patterns in embryos, enabling the study of how cells assemble into tissue-like architectures. The new approach uses persistence images to rapidly compare large datasets, reducing computation time from hours to seconds.

SourceBrown University·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·DateSep 14, 2023

When it comes to starting a family, timing is everything

A new Cochrane review suggests that timed intercourse using urine ovulation tests can improve live birth and pregnancy rates, especially in women under 40. The study found that timing intercourse around the fertile period increased chances of successful conception by 20-28%.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 14, 2023

The ISSCR introduces “checklist” to promote global best practices for human stem cell research

The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) has introduced a 'checklist' to promote global best practices for human stem cell research. The checklist aims to increase transparency and clarity in the reporting of key quality control measures, enabling authors to disclose critical experimental details.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 14, 2023

LSU Health New Orleans study shows the major measure of diabetes is significantly higher in young Black patients

A recent study published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that HbA1c levels are markedly higher in young black youth compared to whites with type 1 diabetes. This disparity can lead to increased risk of hypoglycemia and long-term complications if primarily used for insulin management.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Evolution wired human brains to act like supercomputers

Researchers have confirmed that human brains use Bayesian inference to process visual information, allowing for precise interpretation and speed. This natural ability enables people to outperform machines in tasks such as recognizing objects in images, with implications for fields like artificial intelligence and clinical neurology.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Preventing the tissue's response to stiffness may be key to slowing the progression of breast tumors

A recent study led by IBEC demonstrates that laminin, a protein present in healthy breast tissues, prevents the effects of stiffening, protecting cells against tumor growth. The researchers observed that cells seeded on laminin-rich gel exhibited a significantly less pronounced mechanical response to substrate stiffness.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Members of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses support efforts to promote racial equity

The National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) survey results suggest that over 90% of its members believe the organization should pursue racial equity work. The organization has received specific suggestions for a strategic plan, including prioritizing research initiatives, providing continuing education credits, and increasing di...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAdvances in Neonatal Care·DateSep 14, 2023

Stretching the truth: New research reveals negative effects of exaggerative political statements

A new study from City, University of London, found that 'stretching arguments' by politicians can have a significantly negative effect on public opinion. Researchers discovered that making invalid claims can dilute over time, but the cumulative effects could undermine democracy and democratic procedures.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalEuropean Political Science Review·DateSep 14, 2023

Worse results and more drop-outs when teaching is in English

A new study by Chalmers University of Technology and KTH Royal Institute of Technology found that Swedish students performing in English-language programming courses obtained significantly worse results and dropped out prematurely compared to their peers studying in Swedish. The researchers measured student performance based on test qu...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Linguistics Review·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2023

Peer-led patient navigation helps minoritized patients engage in their own mental healthcare

A pilot study shows significant improvements in self-reported mental health and depression among racially and ethnically minoritized veterans who received peer-led patient navigation. The program, developed by the Regenstrief Institute, supports patients in identifying their healthcare priorities and communicating with clinicians.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateSep 14, 2023

UCI researchers announce publication of an open-label clinical trial suggesting that N-acetylglucosamine restores neurological function in Multiple Sclerosis patients

A study published by UCI researchers found that N-acetylglucosamine reduced multiple inflammation and neurodegeneration markers in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. The dietary supplement also improved neurological function in 30% of patients, suggesting a potential new treatment for the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2023

Keeping the ‘warm glow’ of giving going significantly boosts repeat blood donations

New research shows that boosting the 'warm glow' feeling people experience after giving blood significantly increases repeat blood donations. This research, led by the University of Nottingham, highlights the importance of reinforcing feelings of gratitude and identity as a blood donor to encourage long-term helping behavior.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeSurvey·DateSep 14, 2023

Study finds spiritual coping behaviors may be key to enhanced trauma recovery of Black men who survive firearm injury

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing explore how spiritual coping behaviors help survivors of urban firearm injury recover. The study suggests that combining culturally sensitive spiritual resources with psychotherapy may lead to effective trauma-informed care for injured urban Black men.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalArchives of Psychiatric Nursing·DateSep 14, 2023

Clever lapwings use cover to hide in plain sight

Research shows that lapwings can hide their eggs by using small variations in the terrain, making them invisible to ground predators. The study found that habitat geometry rather than visual acuity limits the visibility of a ground-nesting bird's clutch to terrestrial predators.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Uncover the“black box” of developmental failure of implanting cloned embryos by 3D in vitro culture system

Researchers have developed a new 3D in vitro culture system that visualizes peri-implantation development of cloned embryos, revealing epigenetic mediated barriers to successful implantation. The study identifies persistent Wnt signaling activity as a key obstacle and presents a rescue approach to improve cloning efficiency.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateSep 14, 2023

Artificial Intelligence: AI may outperform most humans at creative thinking task

A study published in Scientific Reports found that large language model AI chatbots can generate creative ideas at least as well as the average human in a divergent thinking task. However, human participants with the highest scores still outperformed the best chatbot responses, especially in categories such as fluency and flexibility.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

How MSU is working to solve range anxiety

Researchers at MSU are working on a project to create an electric autonomous vehicle that can travel long distances without charging, addressing the issue of range anxiety. The team is exploring battery chemistry, electrical systems, and materials to develop a fully autonomous, lightweight all-terrain vehicle.

All work and no play will really make a dull life - new research reveals

A study across three countries found that individuals who prioritize achievement over enjoyment experience lower happiness the next day. In contrast, those who value freedom report a 13% increase in well-being, including better sleep quality and life satisfaction. Relaxation and hobbies also lead to a significant boost in well-being.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalJournal of Personality·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Take the money now or later? Financial scarcity doesn’t lead to poor decision making

A study published by the American Psychological Association finds that people experiencing financial scarcity make decisions based on their immediate needs, prioritizing short-term gains only when scarcity threatens their most pressing requirements. Researchers examined how participants' choices changed depending on the timeline of the...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 14, 2023

UH Research Team Awarded $4M to Convert Plastic Waste into Useful MaterialsUH research team awarded $4M to convert plastic waste into useful materials

A UH research team is developing innovative chemical processes to transform plastic waste into useful materials, aiming to create new ways to reuse and recycle polyolefins. The project seeks to produce durable thermoset materials that can be recycled multiple times, reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular plastics economy.

Making hydrogen from waste plastic could pay for itself

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a method to produce clean hydrogen gas from waste plastics using low-emissions technology. By utilizing rapid flash Joule heating, they can convert plastic waste into high-yield hydrogen and valuable graphene, which could offset the production costs of clean hydrogen.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Women receiving inflated risks from genetic testing could undergo unnecessary breast surgery

Research suggests that women carrying disease-causing BRCA variants may face incorrect risk assessments of 60-80% for breast cancer, when in fact the true risk is less than 20%. This has led to unnecessary breast surgeries. The study aims to inform informed decision-making and responsible communication of genetic risks.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Addressing social determinants of health in post-overdose outreach associated with greater reduction in fatal opioid overdoses

New research from Boston Medical Center's Grayken Center for Addiction found that municipalities offering wide-ranging social services to overdose survivors saw a 21% decrease in fatal overdoses. The study suggests connections to housing, food, employment, and transportation may be key to successful post-overdose outreach programs.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateSep 14, 2023

Study provides genomic insights into the past and future of the black rhinoceros

A new study provides a comprehensive genetic dataset of the black rhinoceros, shedding light on its evolutionary history and population structure. The research reveals six major historical populations and four subpopulations, highlighting the impact of tectonic rifts and human activity on the species' genetic diversity.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

As Earth heats up, rain pours down

A new study finds that global warming will lead to an increase in compound climate extremes such as heavy rainfall and heatwaves, which will have devastating impacts on communities. The regions most affected are already prone to geologic hazards and produce many of the world's crops.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalEarth s Future·DateSep 14, 2023

A team from the University of Barcelona identifies 25 new viruses in Barcelona's wastewaters

A University of Barcelona team has identified 25 new viruses in Barcelona's wastewaters, including the crAssBcn phage, which is specific to human intestinal tract bacteria. The discovery expands the global map of Crassvirales viruses and suggests they may play a regulatory role in human intestinal microbiota.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Overdose deaths from fentanyl laced stimulants have risen 50-fold since 2010

US overdose deaths involving fentanyl and stimulants increased 50-fold from 2010 to 2021, with stimulants becoming most common drug class found in fentanyl-involved overdoses. The trend disproportionately affects racial/ethnic minority communities, particularly Black and African American people.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAddiction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 14, 2023

Researchers develop high-performance zero thermal expansion composite for precision devices

Scientists have developed a high-performance zero thermal expansion composite using Cu2P2O7 and 2024Al, exhibiting excellent properties such as low density, high thermal conductivity, and good machinability. The composite's dimension stability makes it suitable for precision devices in high-tech fields.