UNC Gillings School to host new CDC center for outbreak forecasting, response
The UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health is hosting a new CDC center for outbreak forecasting and response, supported by $4.5 million in funding over five years.
Science News Archive September 2023
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The latest in science and medical advancement in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery to be presented at AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting
The AAO-HNSF 2023 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience will feature groundbreaking clinical research and professional development emerging within otolaryngology. The meeting will showcase the latest scientific oral presentations on various topics, including Otology, Laryngology, Endocrine Surgery, and more.
Inflammatory bowel disease linked to atopic dermatitis, Penn Medicine research finds
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found a significant link between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and atopic dermatitis (AD), with adults having a 34% increased risk and children having a 44% increased risk. The severity of AD was also associated with an increased risk of developing IBD.
Modernizing the Navy’s microgrids
The project aims to assess the operational resilience of microgrids on DoD installations and ships, using new operational resilience indexes developed by Lehigh University researcher Javad Khazaei. The team will develop a dashboard to monitor resilience indexes in real-time, providing recommendations for improving the systems.
Scattering exceptional point in the visible
A team of scientists creates a universal paradigm for achieving high-efficiency exceptional point (EP) in the visible using interlayer loss to control the interplay between lossy structure and scattering lightwaves. The bilayer framework demonstrates perfect retroreflection and absorption, with efficiencies of 88% and 85%, respectively.
Training the gut’s immune system to combat detrimental effects of emulsifiers in processed food
Researchers found that training the gut's immune system to target flagellin, a protein enabling bacterial motility, protects against emulsifier-induced chronic intestinal inflammation and metabolic dysregulation. This study suggests a potential new approach for preventing inflammatory conditions such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
2023 expected to be hottest year ever: Study
Global temperatures are projected to reach unprecedented highs in 2023 due to factors such as El Niño and widespread wildfires. The China Global Merged Surface Temperature dataset 2.0 reveals that the year is expected to be the hottest on record, with global mean sea surface temperatures and land air temperatures reaching all-time highs.
HKUMed finds higher risks of hospital readmission and mortality among surgical patients who were discharged with opioids
A retrospective cohort study found that surgical patients discharged with opioids had a significantly higher risk of persistent opioid use, unplanned health service utilisation, and mortality. The study highlights the importance of discussing pain management options with clinicians to mitigate these risks.
Expanding the VR immersion comfort zone
Researchers have developed high-resolution near-eye displays with integrated light field technology, overcoming limitations of earlier displays. The new designs feature improved resolution, pixel density, and vision correction capabilities, resulting in enhanced visual comfort and immersive VR experiences.
CDC awards $17.5 million to team led by UC San Diego to strengthen response to disease outbreaks
The CDC has awarded a coalition led by UC San Diego researchers $17.5 million to develop innovative tools and networks for rapid response to emerging disease outbreaks. The project aims to integrate forecasting and analytic approaches with data to inform public health decisions.
The MIT Press announces the Open Encyclopedia of Cognitive Science, a paradigm shift in open access reference works
The Open Encyclopedia of Cognitive Science (OECS) is a dynamic web reference that will equip readers with essential tools to grapple with the profound implications of cognition and intelligence in today's society. With generous funding from James S. McDonnell Foundation and the Allen Institute for AI, the first set of articles will be ...
Treating NASH disease by removing cholesterol from macrophages using a unique supramolecule
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a unique supramolecule to remove cholesterol from macrophages, stopping the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in mice. Cholesterol crystals are also found in human patients, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.
Grant awarded to University of Louisville law professor will fund climate adaptation project
The Resilience Justice Project at Brandeis School of Law will examine how eight US coastal cities ensure climate adaptation plans are fair and equitable. The team aims to produce a guidebook of best practices and webinars to help cities adapt planning for all neighborhoods.
Anesthesia & Analgesia devotes special issue to diversity, equity, and inclusion
The journal publishes articles promoting solution-based approaches at individual, hospital, and policy levels to address DEI. The themed edition aims to eliminate healthcare disparities by fostering meaningful change and progress.
New recipes for origin of life may point way to distant, inhabited planets
A team at UW–Madison has compiled 270 combinations of molecules with the potential for sustained autocatalysis, focusing on comproportionation reactions. This cookbook-like approach may help identify conditions for life elsewhere in the universe, guiding future research.
USPSTF recommendation on screening for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
The USPSTF recommends screening for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. The rate of hypertensive disorders has been increasing, from approximately 500 cases per 10,000 deliveries in 1993 to 1,021 cases per 10,000 deliveries in 2016-2017.
Obesity particularly hard on people with bipolar disorders
A study by the University of Gothenburg reveals that obesity significantly worsens life expectancy and mortality risks in individuals with bipolar disorders. The findings show a rapid increase in BMI among those with bipolar disorders, leading to a higher risk of premature death and comorbidity.
Behavior is the secret to success for a range expansion
Researchers found that great-tailed grackles are expanding their range into urban and arid environments due to increased behavioral flexibility. This allows them to adapt to changing conditions and find new food sources. In contrast, boat-tailed grackles only expanded slightly northwards in response to climate change.
How good is Google Bard’s visual understanding? An empirical study on open challenges
Researchers evaluate Google Bard's visual comprehension capabilities through 15 scenarios, identifying strengths and limitations in tasks like object detection, recognition, and fine-grained analysis. Bard excels in some areas but struggles with others, highlighting room for improvement in its visual understanding.
How stakeholders are working to advance health equity
The special issue highlights three pillars of focus: leadership/employees/culture, patient care equity, and community health and policy advocacy. Studies demonstrate the effectiveness of stakeholder collaboration and learning collaboratives in reducing racial disparities.
Study finds the placenta holds answers to many unexplained pregnancy losses
Researchers at Yale University have developed an expanded classification system for pregnancy losses based on pathologic examination of loss placentas. This system accurately determined the pathologic diagnoses for over 90% of previously unexplained pregnancies, including miscarriages and stillbirths.
Poor oral health could lessen survival from head and neck cancer
Research reveals strong associations between oral health and survival among people diagnosed with head and neck cancer, with better oral health linked to increased survival. Frequent dental visits were found to be associated with earlier cancer diagnosis and less deadly disease stages.
Researchers discover a new species of larger benthic foraminifer from the Ryukyu Islands
Researchers have discovered a new species of large foraminifer with porcelain shells from the Ryukyu Islands, expanding our understanding of coral reef biodiversity. The species, Borelis matsudai, is found in the southern and central islands, marking a significant biogeographical milestone.
Unveiling Australia’s fastest next-gen mpox diagnostic tool
A new CRISPR-based diagnostic tool, MPXV-CRISPR, has been developed in Australia to detect the monkeypox virus with high precision and speed. The tool can detect the virus in clinical samples in just 45 minutes, making it faster than current methods.
Ambra1+ Myo-sEVsI/R enriched with mitochondrial components mediates ischemic cardiac fibrosis in a cGAS/STING dependent manner： a new communication medium between cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts
Research finds that Myo-sEVs carrying mitochondrial components stimulate fibroblast activation and proliferation via the cGAS/STING pathway, leading to ischemic cardiac fibrosis.
Early convalescent plasma use — helpful in avoiding severe COVID — also may lower long COVID risk
A nationwide study found that early treatment with plasma from recovered COVID patients can reduce the risk of developing post-COVID conditions. The research also suggests that elevated cytokine levels, particularly interleukin-6, may contribute to long COVID symptoms.
Exercise boosts anti-cancer immunity and reduces inflammation in Lynch Syndrome patients
Researchers found that high-intensity exercise training reduced inflammatory markers and increased immune cells in the colon of Lynch Syndrome patients. This non-randomized study suggests that exercise may be a valuable 'lifestyle prescription' for reducing cancer risk in these individuals.
Witchcraft accusations an ‘occupational hazard’ for female workers in early modern England
Historian Dr Philippa Carter argues that jobs like food preparation, childcare, and dairy production left women exposed to witchcraft accusations. These occupations, often performed by women, were perceived as a threat to social order, increasing the likelihood of suspicion and accusation.
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.
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.
UT Dallas to lead $30 million battery initiative
The University of Texas at Dallas will develop and commercialize new battery technologies, enhance domestic raw material availability, and train workers for the expanding battery industry. The Energy Storage Systems Campus will leverage $200 million in private capital.
School-based health centers, access to care, and income-based disparities
A study found that school-based health centers (SBHCs) can improve access to care for low-income students. SBHCs were also associated with a reduction in income-based health disparities, supporting their expansion as a solution.
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...
Disparities in flu vaccine uptake persist in people with kidney disease
A study of over 15,000 individuals with chronic kidney disease found that young age, Black race, and low education and income were linked to lower flu vaccine uptake. The study suggests that targeted vaccination efforts could improve uptake among those with kidney disease.
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.
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.
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.
Cancer drug conquers covid inflammation
A cancer drug, idronoxil, has been shown to reduce inflammation caused by COVID-19, according to research published in Nature Communications. The study found that idronoxil can target specific inflammatory pathways, limiting the damage without increasing viral replication.
Power meals: Child care-provided meals are associated with improved child and family health
Research found that children in child care with onsite meals and snacks had better health outcomes, including lower rates of food insecurity and hospital admissions. Strengthening child care nutrition programs could benefit families and society as a whole through cost savings and improved health.
Nuclear medicine treatment cures lethal form of ovarian cancer in preclinical setting
A new nuclear medicine treatment has been shown to cure a highly lethal form of advanced intraperitoneal ovarian cancer in a preclinical setting. The therapy targets the HER2 protein and achieved high potency while maintaining an acceptable safety profile.
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.
Tracking down the formation of cardenolides in plants
Scientists identified the candidate genes involved in cardenolide biosynthesis by comparative analysis of two plant species. They also discovered two enzymes that catalyze the conversion of cholesterol and phytosterols into pregnenolone, a crucial step in the production of these plant steroids.
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus receives $54 million from NIH
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has received a $54 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to advance clinical and translational science. The grant will enable the Colorado Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CCTSI) to translate discoveries into better health and patient care across the state.
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.
Gauging the key role animals can play in monitoring climate change
Researchers argue that equipping animals with sensors can provide valuable, localized data on environmental conditions impacted by climate change. The technology can help fill critical data gaps, particularly in remote areas.
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.
Engineered compound shows promise in preventing bone loss in space
A new study finds an engineered compound largely prevented bone loss in mice aboard the International Space Station, simulating long-duration space travel. The compound, BP-NELL-PEG, displayed superior specificity for bone tissue without adverse effects.
UTHealth Houston study: Artificial intelligence software improves endovascular thrombectomy treatment times for stroke patients
A new UTHealth Houston study reveals that implementing artificial intelligence-powered software can significantly reduce treatment time for stroke patients undergoing endovascular thrombectomy, with an average reduction of 11 minutes in time to thrombectomy initiation.
Lifesaving addiction medications are rarely started following opioid overdose emergencies
A study analyzed Medicaid claims data to find that less than 20% of patients treated for opioid overdoses were started on FDA-approved medications, including buprenorphine and naltrexone. Despite the potential for these medications to be lifesaving, crucial opportunities to prevent overdose deaths are being missed.
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.
Atomic layer deposition route to scalable, electronic-grade van der Waals Te thin films
The UNIST team successfully fabricated high-quality Te thin films without heat treatment at low temperatures, achieving perfect atom arrangement. The developed process enables precise thickness control and uniform deposition on wafer-scale, suitable for various electronic devices.
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.
New findings suggest Moon may have less water than previously thought
A team of scientists calculated that most of the Moon's permanently shadowed regions are younger than previously estimated and contain relatively young deposits of water ice. The findings suggest that current estimates for cold-trapped ices are too high, which could impact future missions to the Moon.
Moffitt receives $3 million to develop new targeted treatments for rare melanomas
Researchers at Moffitt will develop novel targeted alpha-particle therapies for uveal melanoma and other rare melanomas. The grant will fund projects aimed at advancing the therapy's efficacy and personalizing its treatment.
Fundamental process behind memory now captured live
Scientists have witnessed nerve plasticity in the axon for the first time, capturing the process of adaptability in real-time. The discovery sheds light on how the brain adjusts its structure in response to changes in neural activity.
Mature sperm lack intact mitochondrial DNA, study finds
Researchers found that mature sperm carry only 100 organelles with mitochondria but no intact mtDNA. This discovery has important implications for human fertility and germ cell therapy, potentially limiting the risk of accumulating harmful mtDNA mutations.
Higher buprenorphine doses associated with improved retention in treatment for opioid use disorder
Patients prescribed higher doses of buprenorphine (24mg) were more likely to stay in treatment for longer periods compared to those on lower doses (16mg). Higher doses may help address the challenges posed by fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid.
Research shows that income inequalities within the Aztec Empire eased the way of the conquistadores
The Aztec Empire's highly centralized tax collection system and extreme income inequality allowed Spanish conquistadores to quickly overrun the empire. The richest 1% earned 41.8% of total income, while the poorest 50% earned just 23.3%, making for a skewed distribution.
How does smoking tobacco and cannabis affect depression risk?
A new study by UCSF researchers has found that people who use both cannabis and tobacco have significantly higher rates of depression and anxiety than those who use either substance alone or not at all. The study analyzed data from 53,843 Americans and found that among dual users, 26.5% reported anxiety and 28.3% reported depression.
Scientists call for a tree planting drive to help tackle heatwaves
Researchers from the University of Surrey's Global Centre for Clean Air Research found that nature-based locations can cool urban areas by up to 3°C during heatwaves. The team recommends planting trees in public spaces, especially around schools, to help tackle the urban heat island effect.