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Science News for September 18, 2023


Danish researchers take another big step toward HIV cure

A large international study led by Danish researchers may have brought us closer to a cure for HIV. The study found that patients who received monoclonal antibodies before pausing their regular treatment experienced a period of virus suppression, and some even saw their immune system partially or completely suppress the virus.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 18, 2023

Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric, policies contributed to decline in preventive healthcare visits among children of immigrants

A new study found that Trump's election was associated with a 5-percentage-point decrease in well-child visits for children of immigrant mothers, compared to US-born families. This decline may have resulted in missed vital pediatric care, including vaccinations and health screenings.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs Scholar·TypeSurvey·DateSep 18, 2023

Study: Admissions policies that consider grades and test scores in context of available opportunities are linked to college success

A new study by the American Educational Research Association found that contextualizing high school performance can help identify students from diverse backgrounds with strong academic achievement who are likely to succeed in college. The research suggests that this approach is a legally permissible way for institutions to promote equi...

How do suicide risk or depression screenings compare to identify patients at risk?

Research found that depression screening methods, such as the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, correctly identified more patients who attempted suicide than suicide risk screenings. The study suggests that comprehensive screenings tools may be more effective in identifying patients at risk of suicide and depression.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalThe Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2023

Golden future for thermoelectrics

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered a new metallic alloy of nickel and gold that exhibits exceptional thermoelectric properties, enabling high electrical power generation. The alloy outperforms conventional semiconductors in terms of power density and thermoelectric efficiency.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Eureka baby! Groundbreaking study uncovers origin of ‘conscious awareness’

A groundbreaking study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that agency emerges from the coupled relation between humans and their environment. Infants are found to discover their causal powers and transition from spontaneous to intentional behavior at a critical level of coordination, marking an abrupt increase in movement rate.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Electrons take flight at the nanoscale

A new device design inspires improved integrated circuit designs by visualizing electric current flow lines around sharp bends. The research enables better understanding of heat generation in electronic devices, leading to more efficient circuit creation and reduced risk of overheating.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Sylvester study shows how thoracic surgeons who treat lung cancer are helping to reduce patients’ risk of opioid dependence

A study by researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine found that thoracic surgeons who treat lung cancer are helping to reduce patients' risk of opioid dependence. The ERATS protocol, which includes intercostal nerve blocks and safe pain relievers, enables earlier hospital discharge with nearly opioid-free recovery.

Three new articles in the Special Issue “Single-Cell and Spatially Resolved Omics - I” of Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis Articles describe how single-cell and spatially resolved omics can identify novel therapeutic targets

Researchers have identified novel therapeutic targets using single-cell and spatially resolved omics, including cannabidiol for colorectal tumors, Cux1 as a potential target for dry skin diseases, and microglia communication for Alzheimer's disease. These studies offer hope for future treatments.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

A suit of armor for cancer-fighting cells

A new approach to CAR T cell therapy has been developed by modifying T-cells with a sugar molecule and PEG coating to prevent interactions with macrophages, reducing severe side effects. This strategy offers a therapeutic window for treatment and opens up potential applications for other cellular immunotherapies.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Unveiling the invisible: a bioinspired CMOS-integrated polarization imaging sensor

A team of scientists has developed a chip-integrated metasurface-based Full-Stokes polarimetric imaging sensor inspired by the mantis shrimp eye, achieving high accuracy and large field of view. The sensor operates at visible wavelengths with ultra-compact footprint and CMOS compatibility.

Weight loss? ‘Nuting’ to worry about with almonds

Researchers found that almond-supplemented diets resulted in significant weight loss and improved cardiometabolic outcomes. The study demonstrated the benefits of nuts as part of a balanced weight loss diet, with almonds providing unsaturated fats that can improve blood cholesterol levels and contribute to a healthy heart.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalObesity·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 18, 2023

New research highlights importance of equity in education

A new study by the University of Ottawa explores how racialized students perceive their learning environments, finding lower autonomy satisfaction and higher frustration in terms of connectedness. The research underscores the need for institutions to recognize and address the specific needs of their racialized student communities.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalCanadian Journal of Higher Education·TypeCase study·DateSep 18, 2023

Canopy gaps help eastern hemlock outlast invasive insect

A new study found that creating physical gaps in the forest canopy improves the health and growth of eastern hemlocks infested with the woolly adelgid, a highly invasive insect. By giving the trees better access to resources like water and nutrients, canopy gaps may help them 'outgrow' the insect's impact, at least temporarily.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalForest Ecology and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Unlocking urban diversity: The magnetism of complex amenities

A study from the Complexity Science Hub reveals that rare shops and services in urban locations can bring people of different socio-economic backgrounds together. Researchers found that neighborhoods offering a range of unique amenities, like zoos or cinemas, tend to attract more diverse audiences. This understanding can inform policy ...

SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalEPJ Data Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 18, 2023

Using augmented reality to make Parkinson's disease physical therapy more accessible

A recent Cleveland Clinic trial found that augmented reality therapy, such as the Dual-task augmented Reality Treatment (DART), can improve posture and stability in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The digital platform uses a headset to guide exercises and track progress, allowing for more widespread use of physical therapy.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalNeurorehabilitation and Neural Repair·DateSep 18, 2023

Preschoolers from low-income families may have worse health and benefit less from health promotion interventions than children with higher socioeconomic status

Researchers found that preschoolers from low-income families had poorer health outcomes and improved less in healthy lifestyle habits compared to their peers from more affluent backgrounds. The intervention program showed significant improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among children with higher socioeconomic status, bu...

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 18, 2023

Sylvester study shows that new protocols enable many patients to safely return home just one day after lung cancer surgery

A study at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine found that robot-assisted surgeries and improved pain-management initiatives led to earlier discharges for many patients. However, lower-income patients were less likely to be discharged on day one due to socioeconomic disparities.

Knowing the genetic cause of high cholesterol predicts disease risk better than cholesterol levels alone, study finds

A Geisinger-led study found that knowing the genetic cause of high cholesterol increases heart disease risk more than having high cholesterol levels alone. The study used UK Biobank data and observed distinct differences in heart disease rates among participants with different genetic causes.

SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalArteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology·DateSep 18, 2023

Top scientists, engineers choose startups over tech behemoths for reasons other than money

Research by a University of Illinois expert found that high-ability tech workers join startups due to expected non-monetary benefits, not just lower pay. Startups can recruit top talent despite offering less compensation, suggesting a preference for the startup culture and environment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalManagement Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 18, 2023

Captive pandas could be ‘jet lagged’ if their body clocks don’t match their environment

A study found that captive giant pandas living in zoos outside their natural latitude exhibit reduced activity, potentially impacting their wellbeing. The researchers monitored the behavior of 11 pandas at six zoos, finding that daylight and temperature cues played a crucial role in regulating their circadian clocks.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 18, 2023

Cellular cartography - charting the sizes and abundance of our body's cells reveals mathematical order underlying life

Researchers created a comprehensive index of human cells mapping sizes and abundance across the entire body. The study reveals surprising mathematical patterns underlying cell size and number, challenging fundamental understanding of cell growth and proliferation.

SourceMax-Planck-Institut fur Mathematik in den Naturwissenschaften·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 18, 2023

Personalized combination treatment turns on an immunometabolic switch to effectively control an aggressive form of prostate cancer

Researchers developed a personalized combination treatment that turned on an immunometabolic switch to effectively control aggressive prostate cancer. The treatment showed complete tumor control and long-lasting survival without side effects in a mouse model of advanced prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 18, 2023

Employee surveys may miss out on uncovering toxic leadership practices

A new study from Binghamton University's School of Management found that standard employee surveys may be missing out on crucial information about toxic leaders. Participants in the survey often rely on their long-term memory to rank harmful leadership practices, which can lead to overlooked negative encounters if they're few and far b...

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAcademy of Management Proceedings·DateSep 18, 2023

Initiating high voltage multi-electron reactions in NASICON cathodes for aqueous zinc/sodium batteries

Scientists initiate high voltage multi-electron reactions in NASICON cathodes to enhance the performance of aqueous zinc/sodium batteries. The study proposes using transition metal ion substitution to augment structural stability and increase capacity, offering a promising strategy for advancing the technology.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Economic burden of US youth violence injuries

The economic burden of youth violence in the US has reached $122 billion, driven primarily by medical care, lost productivity, and avoidable mortality from male firearm homicides. Prevention strategies can help mitigate this substantial economic burden.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 18, 2023

Individual neurons mix multiple RNA edits of key synapse protein, fly study finds

Researchers found that individual neurons can stochastically mix and match up to eight different editions of the Complexin 7A protein, leading to varying levels of glutamate release. This variation may endow each neuron with fine degrees of communication control, allowing for robust tuning of multiple features of neuronal output.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

New clues to the nature of elusive dark matter

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have uncovered new clues in the quest for understanding dark matter, a mysterious substance making up 84% of the universe's mass. The study suggests that the dark photon hypothesis is preferred over the standard model hypothesis, providing evidence for a potential particle discovery.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of High Energy Physics·DateSep 18, 2023

Promising gene-based approaches to repair lethal lung injury in the elderly from COVID-19, pneumonia, flu, sepsis

Researchers discovered a gene called FOXM1 that plays a crucial role in repairing blood vessels and improving survival rates. A low-dose repurposed drug, decitabine, was found to reactivate the gene and promote vascular repair in aged mice. An alternative approach using endothelium-targeted nanoparticle gene delivery also showed promise.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateSep 18, 2023

NIH launches $2 million prize competition to spur innovation in fetal diagnostic and monitoring technologies

The NIH's RADx Tech Fetal Monitoring Challenge aims to accelerate development of diagnostic and monitoring technologies that improve fetal health outcomes, particularly in low-resource settings. Successful technologies will directly measure fetal health status and have strong potential for accessible use.

AI and machine learning can successfully diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome

Researchers found that AI/ML based programs can successfully detect PCOS with an accuracy of 80-90%, making it a promising tool for early diagnosis and reducing the burden on patients. The study suggests integrating large population-based studies with electronic health datasets to identify sensitive diagnostic biomarkers.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 18, 2023

Remote work can slash your carbon footprint — if done right

A study by Cornell University and Microsoft found that remote workers can have a lower carbon footprint compared to onsite workers, with hybrid workers reducing their footprint by 11-29%. Lifestyle choices and work arrangements play a crucial role in determining the environmental benefits of remote and hybrid work.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2023

Accounting transparency effort tied to decreased funding for innovation

Researchers found that regulations aimed at improving financial reporting requirements may have led to decreases in corporate spending on innovation, capital improvements, and mergers and acquisitions. Companies were reluctant to report uncertainty regarding their tax burden in public-facing financial statements, leading to a decline i...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalContemporary Accounting Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 18, 2023

Monell Center team discovers markers that can predict how children will tolerate sweetened medicine

Researchers at Monell Chemical Senses Center identified genetic markers that can predict a child's reaction to sweetened medicine. These findings suggest that tailoring medications to individual tastes could help prevent unintentional poison exposures among children under six years old.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

DOE backs Rice study of how soils store carbon

Researchers will track how key minerals form in a watershed to build a fuller picture of the processes that allow soil to store carbon as organic matter. Understanding these mechanisms can help develop practices and incentives for a carbon market economy, potentially harnessing Earth's natural mechanisms to combat climate change.

Pediatric ED visits, hospitalizations for self-harm up during pandemic, especially in adolescent females; "Less is better" is the best message when talking to patients about alcohol

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in emergency department visits and hospitalizations for self-harm and suicidal ideation among adolescents, particularly young female adolescents. The disruptions of the pandemic may have contributed to this trend.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 18, 2023