Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 20, 2023


New model for in vitro production of human brown fat cells lays groundwork for obesity, diabetes cell therapy

A new model for producing human brown fat cells in vitro has been developed, providing a potential solution for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes. The researchers identified key cellular signaling cues that lead to brown adipocyte formation and successfully reproduced this process in human pluripotent stem cells.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

Study shows morning and afternoon slightly better than evening physical activity for diabetes prevention

A new study published in Diabetologia reveals that morning and afternoon physical activity are associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that each 1-unit increase in MET-hour physical activity was linked to a 10% reduction in risk, with the association being most pronounced in the morning and aft...

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateSep 20, 2023

Team led by professor In Soo-Il at DGIST develops eco-friendly high-efficiency photocatalysts that convert atmospheric CO2 into fuel

A team led by Professor In Soo-Il at DGIST developed a high-efficiency photocatalyst that converts CO2 into methane using solar energy. The research improved the composition of nanoparticle co-catalysts and ruthenium doping to maximize optical and electrical properties, achieving enhanced CO2 adsorption and conversion efficiency.

Spotlight on mud snakes: Study unveils evolutionary secrets of enigmatic snake family from Southeastern Asia

A new University of Kansas genomic investigation has rewritten the evolutionary history of the Homalopsidae, a group of unique mud snakes found in Southeast Asia. The study combined genetic analyses of older museum specimens with fresher field collections to reconstruct the family tree and shed light on their evolution.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalBulletin of the Society of Systematic Biologists·DateSep 20, 2023

Dying with dignity in Mexico

A University of Oklahoma professor is conducting an ethnographic study on end-of-life care in two public palliative care wards in Mexico City. The study aims to understand the cultural and bioethical dimensions of death and dying, with a focus on improving palliative care practices.

The Tibetan Plateau bridge: Remote climate effects of extratropical and tropical forcing

The Tibetan Plateau plays a crucial bridging role between mid-to-high-latitude forcing and tropical regions, influencing Asian monsoon and ENSO events. The study reveals the TP's intermediate effect on the North Atlantic tripole pattern and its impact on East Asian summer monsoons.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateSep 20, 2023

Lungs play a critical role in fetal blood development, new study from Boston Medical Center and Boston University’s Center for regenerative medicine finds

A recent study by Boston Medical Center and Boston University's Center for Regenerative Medicine discovered that hemogenic endothelial cells in the fetal lung contribute to blood cell formation. This breakthrough expands our understanding of blood development and its relationship with overall health.

SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalBlood Advances·DateSep 20, 2023

Bridging the gap: new terrain smoothing method refines downslope windstorm modeling in the grey zone

Researchers developed an advanced terrain-smoothing technique to simulate complex weather phenomena, capturing detailed flow features and turbulence. The targeted smoothing method improves the accuracy of downslope windstorm predictions in urban areas, holding promise for more accurate weather forecasts.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateSep 20, 2023

Better distinguish chronic inflammation and cancer of the pancreas

Scientists have identified a DNA methylation pattern that can accurately diagnose pancreatic cancer, distinguishing it from chronic pancreatitis. The marker, which involves six specific methylation positions in the PRKCB gene, has been validated on tissue and blood samples, offering hope for improved diagnosis and treatment.

Cognitive behavioral therapy eases how fibromyalgia pain is experienced by the brain

A randomized controlled trial found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduces fibromyalgia pain by decreasing pain-catastrophizing, a negative response that amplifies pain. CBT participants showed reduced connectivity between brain regions associated with self-awareness and emotional processing.

SourceMass General Brigham·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 20, 2023

Team led by Professor Choi Hong-Soo at DGIST elucidates the rotational magnetic field mechanism for maximizing the therapeutic effects on cancer cells using magnetic nanotherapeutics

A team at DGIST discovered a method to enhance magnetic nanoparticle penetration into cancer cells, improving therapeutic effects. Rotational magnetic fields aid in chain disassembly and propulsion of magnetic nanoparticles, increasing cellular absorption and treatment efficacy.

New evidence confirms patients with severe psoriasis are at a higher risk for heart disease

A large study published in Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that patients with severe psoriasis have a high prevalence of coronary microvascular dysfunction, which is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Psoriasis severity and duration, as well as the presence of psoriatic arthritis, are independently linked to redu...

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 20, 2023

Unzipping mRNA rallies plant cells to fight infection

A new molecular mechanism has been identified that helps plants adjust protein levels to fight infection. By unzipping specific RNA structures, plant cells can produce defense proteins. This discovery also has implications for human cells, suggesting a similar mechanism may control protein production in response to pathogens.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

Consumption of ultraprocessed food and risk of depression

A recent study suggests that higher intake of ultraprocessed foods, particularly those with artificial sweeteners, may be associated with an increased risk of depression. The exact mechanism is unknown, but researchers believe that artificial sweeteners could play a role in the development of depression.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 20, 2023

Discovery could lead to ‘kinder’ treatment for devastating childhood cancer

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have made a groundbreaking discovery that could lead to more effective treatments for neuroblastoma, a devastating form of childhood cancer. The new approach uses a combination of two drugs to encourage cancer cells to become normal non-dividing cells, potentially reducing side effects.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

Study reveals structure of crucial receptor in brain development, function

Scientists at OHSU elucidated the structure of Type A GABA receptors targeted by antidepressants and other pharmaceutical drugs, shedding light on their role in brain function and development. The study reveals dominant assemblies and states of the receptor, paving the way for the development of new compounds with improved efficacy.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Genetically modifying individual cells in animals

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created a method to simultaneously modify multiple genes in individual cells of an animal, allowing for the study of complex diseases. By precisely analyzing these cells, scientists can identify key genes responsible for disease progression, paving the way for potential drug development.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateSep 20, 2023

New self-cleaning membranes developed by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers dramatically improve the efficiency of desalination technologies

New hybrid membrane technology uses thermosalient organic crystals to effectively remove contaminants from surfaces, increasing water flow by over 43% and extending operational lifetime. This innovation has the potential to make desalination technologies more efficient and environmentally sustainable.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2023

Lehigh University researchers make sand that flows uphill

Lehigh University researchers have discovered that applying magnetic forces to individual 'microroller' particles can spur collective motion, allowing the grains to flow uphill, up walls, and climb stairs. This counterintuitive phenomenon has potential applications in mixing, segregating materials, and microrobotics.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2023

Discovery of the hidden connection between adverse drug reactions and autism spectrum disorder

A joint study by multiple research teams identified a link between valproate exposure during pregnancy and increased expression of the Rnf146 gene in autism mice, disrupting neurotransmitter balance. The findings contribute to understanding autism's mechanism and may aid early detection and treatment.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalExperimental & Molecular Medicine·DateSep 20, 2023

NIH study finds association between elevated phthalate levels and increased risk of postpartum depression

A new NIH study found an association between higher prenatal phthalate levels and a slightly increased risk of postpartum depression. Exposure to chemicals like phenols, phthalates, and parabens during pregnancy may influence hormone levels and contribute to the development of postpartum depression symptoms.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 20, 2023

New recycling method fights plastic waste

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a technology that converts unrecyclable plastic waste into useful chemicals, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This new approach presents a promising strategy for establishing closed-loop circularity of plastics and fighting global plastic waste.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateSep 20, 2023

Decoding depression: Researchers identify crucial biomarker that tracks recovery from treatment-resistant depression

A team of researchers has identified a unique pattern in brain activity that reflects the recovery process in patients with treatment-resistant depression. After six months of deep-brain stimulation therapy, 90% of patients exhibited significant improvement in their symptoms and 70% no longer met the criteria for depression.

Let it flow: recreating water flow for virtual reality

A Tohoku University research team developed a technique to recreate water flow in real-time using only a small amount of data from real water. This technology enables the creation of immersive VR games with lifelike water motion, potentially enhancing online communication and remote interactions.

SourceTohoku University·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateSep 20, 2023

Socially vulnerable populations are disproportionately exposed to wildfires in the West, study finds

A new study reveals that people with high social vulnerability are more exposed to wildfires in Oregon and Washington, with the number of exposed individuals tripling between 2011 and 2021. The study highlights the need for tailored wildfire preparation and response strategies for individual communities with different risk factors.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Computational model helps with diabetes drug design

Researchers developed a computational model to analyze glucose-responsive insulin (GRI) performance in human patients. The model predicted that differences in sugar receptor behavior between humans and lab animals led to the drug's poor effect in clinical trials. This breakthrough helps researchers design better GRIs, potentially reduc...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2023

High-quality single-cell transcriptomics from tissue sections reveals histology-associated heterogeneity of mouse follicles

Researchers developed a sensitive method for single-cell transcriptome analysis from tissue sections, enabling precise examination of cells with histological characteristics. The study unveiled gene expression differences in granulosa cells and revealed growth retardation in oocyte gene expression profiles.

SourceNara Medical University·JournalLife Science Alliance·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

DGIST Core Protein Resources Center and Honam National Institute of Biological Resources, utilizing island wildlife to treat prostate cancer!

Veratramine from Veratrum japonicum significantly inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation and survivability. The research team also found that veratramine increases ATM/ATR protein expression and suppresses Akt protein, leading to decreased tumor size and toxicity in immunodeficient mice.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalThe American Journal of Chinese Medicine·DateSep 20, 2023

Mount Sinai receives $6.2 million grant from the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation for the clinical care of long Lyme disease

The Mount Sinai Hospital's Cohen Center will expand its research and clinical care to include 'long Lyme Disease/Lyme+', exploring key similarities and differences with long COVID. The center will offer novel therapies, including virtual reality and non-invasive brain stimulation technologies, as well as personalized cognitive rehabili...

Safer neighborhoods may mitigate risk of child abuse

A Rutgers study finds that safer neighborhoods can reduce the risk of child abuse by providing a stable environment and reducing stress. Improving the built environment, reducing poverty, and providing adequate housing services can help mitigate maltreatment risks in low-income communities.

SourceRutgers University·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Black holes eat faster than previously expected

A Northwestern University study reveals that black holes devour gas at a much faster rate than previously believed. The simulations indicate that the inner regions of the accretion disk are destroyed and replenished, explaining the drastic variation in quasars' brightness and fading patterns.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2023

St. Jude refines definition and hones treatment of hyperdiploid leukemia

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital refined the definition of hyperdiploidy in childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), using DNA index to predict patient outcomes. The study found that a simpler system captures a significant proportion of patients with excellent prognoses, and that individual chromosome ...

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 20, 2023

Doctors with long covid deserve more support

Doctors who contracted long covid while working are struggling to access support and financial aid due to inadequate workplace protection. The condition affects up to 4.41% of healthcare workers, with nearly half losing income, and many facing dismissal or early retirement.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 20, 2023

How does zeolite-encapsulated metal catalysts act on hydrogen-related catalytic reactions?

Zeolite-encapsulated metal catalysts show improved hydrogen-related catalytic reactions due to confinement effect, reducing sintering and leaching. Advanced characterization techniques are used to study fine structure of metal sites, enabling better understanding of catalytic performance.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 20, 2023

Surrogate adiposity markers and mortality

A large UK-based study found that waist-to-hip ratio was the strongest predictor of mortality, regardless of body mass index. The study's findings suggest that focusing on adiposity distribution rather than overall weight may be a more effective approach to reducing mortality risk.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 20, 2023

Exposure to plasticizers in pregnancy associated with smaller volumetric measures in the brain and lower IQ in children

Exposure to plasticizers during pregnancy has been linked to smaller total gray matter in the brains of children at age 10. Additionally, maternal exposure to certain phthalates is associated with lower child IQ at age 14. The relationship between exposure and lower IQ is partially influenced by total gray matter volumes.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 20, 2023

Discovering the intention of a person using just brain wave data! Research team led by Professor Sanghyun Park of DGIST has contributed to realizing AI medical services by developing a brain wave classification deep-learning model

A new deep-learning model was developed by Professor Sanghyun Park's research team at DGIST to classify brain waves with high accuracy using only a small amount of data. This model is capable of overcoming the limitations of existing classification models and can be used for future research related to brain waves.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems·DateSep 20, 2023

College athletes experience worse post-injury outcomes for concussions suffered outside of sports

Researchers found college athletes who experienced non-sports-related concussions had worse symptoms and more days in sports lost to injury. Female athletes had more severe symptoms than male athletes, highlighting the need for improved concussion recognition and monitoring outside of sports.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Athletic Training·TypeObservational study·DateSep 20, 2023

Court action is necessary to establish climate stability as a protected right to break climate change impasse, Oregon State professor concludes

Oregon State University economist Bill Jaeger concludes that 30 years of international treaties on climate change are insufficient due to long delays between cost reduction and benefit realization. Courts recognizing climate rights could add leverage, giving voice to future generations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPLOS Climate·DateSep 20, 2023

Kaiser Permanente cancer survival rates higher

Researchers found higher 5-year survival rates among Kaiser Permanente patients compared to National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) estimates. Improved screening rates, cancer treatment pathways, and coordinated care may have contributed to these higher survival rates.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalThe Permanente Journal·DateSep 20, 2023

Cloud services without servers: what's behind it

Serverless computing is a paradigm shift in cloud computing where cloud providers take over responsibility for complete server management. Two key principles define it: 'NoOps' and 'utilisation-based billing'. Research team from University of Würzburg explores the history, status and potential of serverless computing.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCommunications of the ACM·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 20, 2023

New research findings: Understanding the sex life of coral gives hope of clawing it back from the path to extinction

Scientists have mapped the reproductive strategies and life cycle of an endangered coral species, offering a glimmer of hope for its recovery. The purple cauliflower soft coral's findings can inform conservation strategies and potential restoration efforts, including the creation of new coral colonies to repopulate areas of habitat.

SourceSouthern Cross University·JournalMarine Biology·TypeNews article·DateSep 20, 2023

How bats evolved to avoid cancer

A new study has found that bats' extraordinary ability to host and survive infections may be linked to their low cancer rates. Researchers sequenced the genomes of two bat species and compared them to other mammals, discovering genetic adaptations that allow bats to tolerate viral infections.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeContent analysis·DateSep 20, 2023

Calm and hope as medicine during stress

A worldwide study by sixty-two scientists found a relationship between specific emotions and wellbeing during collective stress. Calm and hope are linked to better psychological wellbeing, while anxiety, loneliness, and sadness predict lower wellbeing. Understanding how emotions influence behaviors can improve wellbeing interventions.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalEmotion·DateSep 20, 2023

Realistic analysis of excavation damaged zone trends in an underground research lab in Japan

A novel numerical analysis successfully replicates observed excavation damaged zone (EDZ) trends at the Horonobe underground research laboratory. The study demonstrates high reproducibility and accurately depicts fracture failure modes, addressing a key aspect of rock deformation and fracturing interactions.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalRock Mechanics Bulletin·TypeCase study·DateSep 20, 2023

CityU researchers develop novel photo-oxidation therapy for anticancer treatment

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a new class of near-infrared-activated photo-oxidants that can effectively kill cancer cells without requiring oxygen. The discovery offers a promising direction for developing anti-cancer drugs and could overcome existing limitations of photodynamic therapies.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

Lurie Children’s Hospital performs innovative minimally invasive surgery for severe muscle tone in cerebral palsy

Researchers at Lurie Children's Hospital use computer-guided radiofrequency ablation to decrease excessive muscle tone in children with cerebral palsy, greatly improving quality of life. The procedure is a safe and effective approach that excludes the dysfunctional nervous system, a main driver of pathology.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalOperative Neurosurgery·DateSep 20, 2023

USC develops new preclinical system to better turn lab discoveries into effective treatments

A research team from USC Keck School of Medicine has developed a more rigorous system for conducting preclinical research on stroke treatments, identifying the strongest candidate for further study. The system uses a network of laboratories and animal models that resemble typical stroke patients to test new therapies.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

Language acquisition may work differently in people with autism

A meta-analysis of 71 studies on autism suggests that people with autism may acquire language differently than neurotypical individuals. While interventions aimed at promoting social communication showed no significant language gains, some children with autism learn language without social interaction, such as through digital tablets. ...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 20, 2023