Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 19, 2023


COVID-19 brain fog and the role of Tau proteins

Researchers identified a link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and Alzheimer's disease-like cognitive symptoms, triggered by Tau protein hyperphosphorylation. The study found increased Tau levels in infected cells, indicating pathological alterations to the protein.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 19, 2023

Study finds two antibiotics for children with sinusitis equally effective, but one had fewer side effects

Researchers found that patients prescribed amoxicillin-clavulanate had higher rates of gastrointestinal symptoms and yeast infections than those prescribed amoxicillin. The study showed no difference in treatment failure rates between the two antibiotics, with treatment failure occurring in less than 2% of cases.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA·TypeObservational study·DateSep 19, 2023

Machine learning models can produce reliable results even with limited training data

Researchers from University of Cambridge and Cornell University have developed a method to build machine learning models that can understand complex equations using far less training data. This breakthrough enables the construction of more time- and cost-efficient models for physics, engineering, and climate modeling applications.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2023

New research sheds light on 'runner's knee'

A new study found that patients with patellofemoral pain have smaller muscles in their hips and hamstrings, which are not typically targeted in rehabilitation. This suggests that personalized rehabilitation approaches may be necessary to effectively address chronic knee pain.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalPhysical Therapy in Sport·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Weakening of the relationship between winter precipitation over southern China and the Asian–Pacific Oscillation during the second half of the 21st century

Climate models project a weakening relationship between the Asian-Pacific Oscillation and winter precipitation in southern China. The study found that as the APO weakens, atmospheric circulation anomalies become unfavorable for precipitation in southern China.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateSep 19, 2023

Does a brain in a dish have moral rights?

A group of experts has developed a framework to research and apply brain-cell-based computer technology responsibly. The technology has significant promise for accelerating disease understanding but raises questions about the moral status of bio-computers.

SourceCortical Labs·JournalBiotechnology Advances·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 19, 2023

How wind turbines react to turbulence

Researchers from the University of Oldenburg developed a new stochastic method to mitigate sudden swings in wind turbine power output. The study found that control systems are mainly responsible for short-term fluctuations and can be optimized to ensure more consistent energy output.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalPRX Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

How to keep people out of the emergency room

A new study co-authored by MIT economist Jonathan Gruber found that a New York City program helped arrange medical appointments for undocumented immigrants with limited incomes, leading to a substantial drop in emergency room use. The program resulted in a 21 percent decline in ER visits and a 42 percent decrease for individuals with h...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateSep 19, 2023

Novel ligands for transition-metal catalysis of photoreactions

Scientists at Chiba University developed novel ligands for transition metal complex photocatalysis, successfully catalyzing specific photoreactions like transfer hydrogenation. The newly designed ligands allow platinum complex to catalyze reactions in the presence of visible light, streamlining industrial processes.

SourceChiba University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

Certain community health care worker programs often exploit volunteers, Mount Sinai researchers report

A systematic review of 117 reports from 19 countries found that over half of volunteer community health care workers experience labor exploitation, including sub-minimum-wage pay and excess work hours. The study highlights the need for fair compensation and safe working conditions to improve quality of care and overall health outcomes.

A mysterious blue molecule will help make better use of light energy

Researchers at IOCB Prague have described the causes of azulene's blue color and its unusual properties, which can help capture and utilize light energy. The team used a simple concept to explain the molecule's behavior, opening up new possibilities for organic chemistry.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

The strongest tag team of the James Webb Space Telescope and ALMA captures the core of the most distant galaxy protocluster

Researchers observed the core region of the protocluster A2744z7p9OD using JWST and detected ionized oxygen-ion light from four galaxies at a distance of 13.14 billion light-years away. The team also detected cosmic dust emissions from three of the four galaxies, indicating that many first-generation stars have completed their lives.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 19, 2023

Technological progress and climate change

Researchers developed an environmentally extended general equilibrium model to analyze the impact of technological progress on climate change. The study found that technological progress in some sectors increases global emissions, while others decrease them.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 19, 2023

Turning the tide: Ghana's innovative approach to tackle marine plastic pollution with citizen science

Ghana has adopted a citizen science approach to address marine plastic litter, leveraging existing data and networks to inform policies and global SDG monitoring. The initiative has become a success story, providing valuable insights for other countries to incorporate citizen science into their SDG efforts.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalSustainability Science·DateSep 19, 2023

Precisely arranging nanoparticles

A research team at Göttingen University has developed plasmonic molecules from nanoparticles using a novel process that precisely arranges the particles. This breakthrough enables the creation of large quantities of these compounds, which can be used for various functions in nanotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

3D insights into an innovative manufacturing process

Using a new technique, researchers created the first 3D tomograms of a ceramic object being printed using laser-based powder bed fusion, revealing detailed information about the manufacturing process. The findings will help improve this promising technology and provide valuable insights for future applications.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

Clinical trial recommends methotrexate for children with severe atopic dermatitis

A clinical trial has shown that methotrexate is a useful and safe treatment for children with severe atopic dermatitis, offering better objective disease control compared to ciclosporin. The study found no concerning safety signals, making methotrexate an attractive alternative for patients in settings where healthcare resources are li...

SourceKing's College London·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 19, 2023

Leading the way in global STI research

A new study published in Virology Journal confirms 25 different types of HPV prevalent in Nigeria, highlighting the need for region-specific vaccines. The discovery underscores the limitations of existing vaccines like Gardasil-9, which only protects against nine cancer-causing types.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalVirology Journal·DateSep 19, 2023

Breaking in the black box of pedagogical authority

A team from Université de Genève and University of Teacher Education, State of Vaud conducted an innovative field study on pedagogical authority. They found that 'double addressing' strategies, combining direct and indirect communication, are particularly effective in exercising teaching authority. This approach allows teachers to prev...

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalTeaching and Teacher Education·TypeNews article·DateSep 19, 2023

Laser-based ice-core sampling for studying climate change

A new laser-based sampling system allows for higher depth resolution, enabling scientists to reconstruct continuous annual temperature changes thousands of years ago. The LMS system overcomes previous limitations in sampling ice cores, preserving critical oxygen and hydrogen isotopes needed to infer past temperatures.

SourceRIKEN·JournalJournal of Glaciology·DateSep 19, 2023

Irish secondary schools among the most socio-economically equal for reading literacy

A new study by Trinity College Dublin found that Irish secondary schools are among the most socio-economically integrated in Europe for reading literacy. Despite varying levels of privileged and underprivileged students, Irish schools have relatively small gaps in literacy scores between these groups.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalBritish Educational Research Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

IPK’s PhenoSphere brings functional plant science much closer to real field environments

The PhenoSphere enables detailed analyses of performance-related trait expression and causal biological mechanisms in plant populations exposed to weather conditions. It simulates clouds, wind speed, and direction, and applies water and fertilization automatically, allowing for systems biology analyzes and hypothesis testing.

Ability to drive a car influences quality of life of older adults in Japan

A study by Waseda University researchers found that car ownership among older Japanese adults is associated with higher self-rated health status, greater independence, and a more positive attitude towards receiving help. The study suggests that autonomous driving may play a key role in improving mobility for older adults.

SourceWaseda University·JournalTransportation Research Part A Policy and Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Job strain combined with high efforts and low reward doubled men’s heart disease risk

A new study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes journal reveals that men who experience job strain combined with high efforts and low reward have doubled the risk of heart disease. The research highlights the pressing need to proactively address stressful working conditions to create healthier work environments.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·DateSep 19, 2023

Predictive model could improve hydrogen station availability

A new predictive model could help reduce unscheduled maintenance at hydrogen stations, increasing availability and consumer confidence. The model uses prognostics health monitoring to predict component failures and estimate remaining useful life, allowing station operators to schedule maintenance when demand is low.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Genetics influence the risk of blood clots in oral contraceptive users

A new study from Uppsala University has found that women with a high genetic predisposition for blood clots are six times more likely to develop a blood clot during the first two years of using contraceptive pills. This knowledge could be used to identify women at risk and counsel them on alternative methods of contraception.

SourceUppsala University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Rutgers scientists develop method to detect deadly infectious diseases

Rutgers researchers have developed a method to detect the early onset of deadly infectious diseases using a test that can flag 'quiet infected' patients who don't exhibit symptoms. The ultra-sensitive biosensor combines nanoballs and advanced electronics to detect viral nucleic acid material, enabling early infection detection.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 19, 2023

Where do we feel love?

Researchers at Aalto University mapped the physical sensations of different types of love, finding a continuum from weaker to stronger loves. The strongest forms of love were felt most widely throughout the body, while others were more localized.

SourceAalto University·JournalPhilosophical Psychology·DateSep 19, 2023

Pediatric endocrinologists concerned for safety amid divisive political climate

A new study found pediatric endocrinologists are concerned about threats to their personal safety and the impact of transgender health bans on medical practice. The researchers surveyed 223 pediatric endocrinologists, with 56% providing gender-affirming care, and identified safety concerns, pressures on hospitals, and threats against p...

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateSep 19, 2023

Machine learning analysis of research citations highlights importance of federal funding for basic scientific research

A machine learning algorithm identified patterns in citations to prioritize important contributions, revealing NIH-funded basic science accounts for 30% of substantive research. Federal funding for basic research is crucial for stimulating clinical research, according to the analysis.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2023

New evidence indicates vitiligo-associated autoimmunity may contribute to reduced morbidity and mortality risk

Patients with vitiligo show a 25% decreased risk of mortality compared to controls, suggesting an autoimmune protective effect. The study found lower mortality rates for patients with vitiligo due to cancer and other causes, offering new avenues for research into mechanisms underlying this protective effect.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Carnegie Mellon University sensor objectively measures scratching intensity

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a wearable device that can objectively measure the intensity of scratching, which could help evaluate the efficacy of medications meant to reduce itching. The device uses a contact microphone and accelerometer to detect high-frequency vibrations and correlates them with scratch i...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalCommunications Medicine·DateSep 19, 2023

Zero-waste synthesis of new supramolecular materials with remarkable mechanical properties

Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a zero-waste process to synthesize hydrogels containing tannic acid and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene oxide, resulting in highly stretchable and self-healing materials. These supramolecular materials exhibit excellent mechanical properties and potential eco-friendly applications.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalResults in Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

At which age we are at our happiest

A study of over 460,000 participants found life satisfaction decreases between puberty and old age, but remains stable until 70. Positive emotional states decrease from childhood to late adulthood, while negative emotional states fluctuate less.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalPsychological Bulletin·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Understanding and treating pain in children

Pediatric patients experience pain that can be detrimental to their brain structure and lead to emotional and behavioral problems. Validated tools such as the Wong-Baker FACES scale and COMFORT scale help healthcare providers assess pain effectively.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalCritical Care Nursing Clinics of North America·DateSep 19, 2023

New insight into crosstalk between cancer cells and their environment

A new study by University of Illinois researchers has collected gene expression data in response to mechanical stiffness in tumors, providing insights into the crosstalk between cancer cells and their environment. The study found that colorectal cancer-associated fibroblasts can sense changes in stiffness and adapt, leading to dramatic...

China global Merged Surface Temperature dataset (CMST) reveals 2023 on Track to Be Hottest Year Ever

The China Global Merged Surface Temperature dataset 2.0 reveals 2023 is likely the hottest year on record due to unprecedented monthly highs and El Niño's impact. The dataset, developed by Professor Qingxiang Li's team, provides a comprehensive global surface temperature benchmark.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 19, 2023

Researchers unveil new flexible adhesive with exceptional recovery and adhesion properties for electronic devices

Researchers have developed a new flexible adhesive with improved recovery capabilities and high adhesive strength, enabling applications in foldable displays and medical devices. The adhesive demonstrated remarkable stability under repeated deformation and strain, making it suitable for fields requiring flexibility and optical clarity.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 19, 2023

COVID-infected adults with 4 or more underlying diseases or advanced age, face higher risk of ICU stay, death

A 10-state study from the CDC's VISION Network identified risk factors for critical COVID-19 outcomes in adults hospitalized with the virus. Adults with four or more underlying disease risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, are at higher risk of ICU admission and death.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 19, 2023

Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) and Research Institutes of Sweden AB (RISE) Ink MoU to Advance Cooperation in Science and Technology

KERI and RISE aim to strengthen joint research in national strategic technologies through initiatives such as joint research projects, collaborative workshops, and talent exchanges. The partnership is expected to unlock synergies driven by RISE's expertise in silicon carbide power semiconductors.

Deep learning reveals valuable clues about kidney cancer in pathology slides

Researchers developed an AI-based assessment tool to evaluate two-dimensional pictures of tumor samples, identifying previously underappreciated features such as tumor microheterogeneity and immune properties. These features are associated with improved overall survival among patients taking immune checkpoint inhibitors. The tool has t...

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateSep 19, 2023

Yogurt may be the next go-to garlic breath remedy

A new study found that whole milk plain yogurt prevented almost all of the volatile compounds responsible for garlic's pungent scent. The researchers suggest high-protein foods may one day be formulated specifically to fight garlic breath. Yogurt's proteins were effective at trapping garlic odors, making it a potential solution.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

Creation of training data to estimate the states of care robot users

A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology has developed a technique to create training data for robots that estimate the state of users using machine learning. The method uses a human body link model without requiring movement analysis, enabling care robots to assist elderly with reduced burden and improved safety.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalIEEE Access·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

Silicon ally: Penn engineers grow full wafers of high-performing 2D semiconductor that integrates with state-of-the-art chips

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have grown a high-performing 2D semiconductor, indium selenide (InSe), to industrial-scale wafers. The team's success hinged on a growth technique that overcame InSe's atomic structure quirks, producing a material with uniform chemical and crystalline properties.

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

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.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 19, 2023

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.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalBritish Journal of Anaesthesia·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023

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.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalMachine Intelligence Research·DateSep 19, 2023