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Science News for September 27, 2023


How safe is your sushi?

Researchers warn of risks associated with eating sushi and sashimi, especially for individuals with weak immune systems. The study highlights the importance of adopting a broad approach to combat the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria through animal and human health, food production, and environment.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateSep 27, 2023

Want to make better decisions? Ask for less information, not more

New research published in Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications suggests that small amounts of surplus information can negatively impact decision-making. When presented with complex causal models, people's ability to make good choices deteriorates as they receive more information than necessary.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalCognitive Research Principles and Implications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Saturated fat may interfere with creating memories in aged brain

A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that saturated fats can interfere with the creation of new memories in aged brains. However, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, may help protect brain cells from fat-related inflammation. The study used cell cultures and brain tissue from aging mice to explore the effects of...

SourceOhio State University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Whole-body PET/CT predicts response to HER2-targeted therapy in metastatic breast cancer patients

A new imaging agent, 68Ga-ABY-025, can predict early metabolic response to HER2-targeted treatment in HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer patients. Whole-body PET/CT enables quantification of HER2 expression and predicts metabolic response, potentially sparing patients from unnecessary side effects.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 27, 2023

How an audience changes a songbird’s brain

Researchers at Columbia University found that when courtship is involved, dopamine-based error signals are suppressed and replaced by reward signals for performing well. This suggests a socially driven shift in the brain's self-evaluation system during courtship, potentially applicable to learning other behaviors.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Primary care intervention reduces hypoglycemia risk from type 2 diabetes overtreatment in older adults

A new quality improvement study shows a primary care intervention reduced the number of older adult patients at risk for hypoglycemia by almost 50%. The tool facilitated shared decision-making and improved patients' daily lives, leading to de-escalation of diabetes medications causing hypoglycemia in 20% of participants.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 27, 2023

Compound d16 reduces tumor growth and overcomes therapeutic resistance in mutant p53-bearing cancers

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed a new compound called d16 that can reduce tumor growth and overcome therapeutic resistance in mutant p53-bearing cancers. The compound, which targets the DNA2 enzyme, shows promise as a potential combination therapy for difficult-to-treat cancers.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCancer Research Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Blocking abnormal stem cell signal during aging lessens related bone loss

Researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine found that blocking the Notch signaling pathway in aging skeletal stem cells increases bone mass and restores lost bone-healing ability. The study used single-cell RNA sequencing to reveal that Notch signaling becomes abnormally active with age, shifting cells towards fatty degeneration.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalBone Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Job loss is linked to increased risk of miscarriage and stillbirth

A recent study published in Human Reproduction found a doubling in the chances of pregnancy miscarrying or resulting in a stillbirth following a job loss. The researchers emphasize an association between job loss and increased probability of miscarriage or stillbirth, highlighting potential socioeconomic factors.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2023

Your Zoom background might influence the first impression you make

A new study found that faces against houseplant or bookcase backgrounds are perceived as more trustworthy and competent than those with other backgrounds. The research, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that videoconference users, particularly men, may benefit from using these background images to make a good impression.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeSurvey·DateSep 27, 2023

JWST's first spectrum of a TRAPPIST-1 planet

The James Webb Space Telescope detected no significant atmosphere around TRAPPIST-1 b, a planet in the habitable zone of its cool star. The study highlights the impact of stellar activity on observations of exoplanets, which can create 'ghost signals' that affect data interpretation.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 27, 2023

How liver cells become scarring, and worse

Liver cells become scarring when damaged by conditions like viral hepatitis or excessive drinking, leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Reversing this process involves targeting the creation of scar tissue and addressing underlying causes, offering new hope for patients with liver fibrosis.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 27, 2023

Psychological aspects of erectile dysfunction deserve more attention, health scientists say

Research highlights personality traits and mental health problems as key causes of erectile dysfunction (ED), with biological components often overlooked. The study calls for better integration of psychological and biological treatments for ED, including couples therapy and diverse population research.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 27, 2023

State politics, industry drive planetary health education for K-12 students in US

A new study found that US K-12 students' science learning standards vary widely in their coverage of environmental issues, reflecting the states' dominant political ideology and major industries. The quality and depth of information on planetary health issues are greatly impacted by these factors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 27, 2023

Swimming lessons often discourage kids from just having fun in the pool

Researchers from the Netherlands found that traditional swimming lessons in the country often discourage children from having fun in the pool. By adopting a teaching style based on self-determination theory, instructors can nurture autonomy, competence, and relatedness, leading to improved swimming skills and increased enjoyment. The s...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sports and Active Living·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2023

Optimization of oil industry wastewater treatment system and proposing empirical correlations for chemical oxygen demand removal using electrocoagulation and predicting the system’s performance by artificial neural network

Researchers developed an advanced wastewater treatment system using electrocoagulation to remove chemical oxygen demand pollutants. The system achieved optimal COD removal under specific conditions, and an artificial neural network model accurately predicted COD removal rates.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateSep 27, 2023

Researchers of the Josep Carreras Institute create a model of childhood leukemia through gene edition

Scientists have developed a cellular model that behaves like childhood leukemia in patients, shedding light on the disease's complexities. The model mimics key features of B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL), particularly those with the MLL::AF4 gene fusion, which has a poor prognosis.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalBlood·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Integration propels machine vision

A joint research team published a review on in-sensor visual computing, a three-in-one hardware solution that overcomes high latency, power consumption, and privacy risks. The SCAMP chip is a key device, enabling general-purpose, programmable, and massively parallel systems for robotics and computer vision.

SourceIntelligent Computing·JournalIntelligent Computing·DateSep 27, 2023

Robust channel estimation based on MEP

A novel self-adaptive CE algorithm based on the maximum entropy principle (MEP) analyzes statistical components of noise environments for accurate channel estimation. The proposed method reduces pilot consumption by using estimated signal data as pseudo pilots, achieving superior performance in accuracy and robustness.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateSep 27, 2023

New study finds children of color and from low-income families are exposed to more toxic chemicals and experience greater harm

A new study review found children from families with low incomes and families of color are exposed to more neurotoxic chemicals, leading to greater harm on brain development. This disparity is attributed to their neighborhoods being located near factories, chemical plants, highways, and agricultural fields where pesticides are applied.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateSep 27, 2023

New evidence for sub-network specializations within the Default Mode Network and the Special Role of Facial Movements in Brain Activation and Self-Perception

Researchers found differential activation patterns of the Default Mode Network nodes, with facial movement inducing an inverted positive BOLD pattern in certain areas. Facial recognition and movement uniquely impact brain activity, highlighting their importance in cognitive and social development.

SourceReichman University·JournalRestorative Neurology and Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Tiny CRISPR tool could help shred viruses

Rice University scientists developed a tiny CRISPR-Cas13 system to shred viruses by targeting RNA. The system's unique mechanism and three-dimensional structure were mapped using cryo-electron microscopy, allowing researchers to engineer it for improved precision and specificity.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Perioperative changing patterns and longitudinal trajectories of CA242 with colorectal cancer prognosis: A retrospective longitudinal cohort study

This study examines CA242 levels before and after surgery to determine their predictive value for colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis. The findings indicate that persistent elevated postoperative CA242 levels, high postoperative-to-preoperative CA242 ratio, and rising CA242 trajectories are associated with poor CRC outcomes.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateSep 27, 2023

Selenium vacancies regulate d-band centers in Ni3Se4 toward paired electrolysis in anion-exchange membrane electrolyzers for upgrading N-containing compounds

A new method uses Ni3Se4 with Se vacancies to regulate d-band centers and facilitate paired electrolysis of nitrate reduction and benzylamine oxidation, yielding valuable nitrogen-containing compounds. The approach offers a lower cost and higher profit compared to non-paired electrolysis.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateSep 27, 2023

Ultrasound enables gene delivery throughout the brain

Researchers at Rice University have developed a non-invasive gene delivery technique using ultrasound to efficiently deliver clinically used gene therapy vectors throughout the brain. The study, published in Gene Therapy, shows that opening more sites within targeted regions improves gene delivery efficiency.

SourceRice University·JournalGene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

NIH study identifies foods to help pregnant people optimize intake of key nutrients

Researchers found that no single food meets daily requirements for six essential nutrients during pregnancy, but some low-calorie options like raw seaweed and ready-to-drink nutritional shakes can help fill the gaps. The study highlights a variety of nutrient-rich foods and beverages that pregnant people can add to their diets.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalJournal of Nutrition·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2023

Atlantic walrus more vulnerable than ever to Arctic warming

A new study reveals that Atlantic walrus populations are highly fragmented due to climate-driven genetic separation, making them more vulnerable to extinction. Human activities such as hunting, commercial exploitation, and resource extraction further exacerbate this vulnerability.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 27, 2023

Risk of premature birth from smoking while pregnant more than double previous estimates

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth by 2.6 times and small for gestational age by four times. Babies born to smokers are also more likely to have low birth weight, increasing their risk of developmental problems and poorer health in later life.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2023

Elevating biogas upgrading performance on renewable aqueous ammonia solution via a novel “membrane method”

Researchers have developed a novel membrane method to upgrade biogas performance using renewable aqueous ammonia solution, reducing CO2 and H2S impurities. The solution offers negligible CH4 loss and high reaction rate, making it an efficient alternative to traditional biogas upgrading technologies.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Agricultural Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

New research reveals dynamic factors shaping biodiversity at small scales

Researchers studying arboreal ants in a Florida forest explore how resource availability and competition shape biodiversity. The study found that both resource availability and competition among species are important for maintaining biodiverse communities, with the relative importance of these processes dependent on scale.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateSep 27, 2023

Stemming the tide of antibiotic resistance – researchers shed light on the complexities of hospital wastewater treatment

A multidisciplinary team investigates hospital wastewater samples and demonstrates the effectiveness of photocatalytic treatment in reducing pharmaceutically active compounds and bacteria. The study highlights the challenges posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria and suggests a promising step towards sustainable wastewater treatment.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateSep 27, 2023

Decriminalizing drug possession not linked to higher overdose death rates in Oregon or Washington

A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that decriminalization policies in Oregon and Washington did not lead to increases in fatal overdose deaths. The research used a rigorous quasi-experimental design and found no statistical significance in overdose death rates between the two states and a synthetic control group.

Scientists identify promising Colorado wilderness areas for wolf recolonization

Researchers developed an analysis framework to predict wolf movement and conflict risk in advance, identifying a complex of federal Wilderness areas as the best location for reintroduction. The study highlights the critical role of Wilderness areas in providing habitat and connectivity for species with a history of conflict with humans.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Rocky Mountain Research Station·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 27, 2023

Reassessing COVID-19 precautions in 2023

The article discusses the need to reassess COVID-19 precautions in 2023, particularly for patients with hematologic malignancies. The researchers highlight the increased risk of poor response to vaccination and worse outcomes from COVID-19 infection among these patients.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 27, 2023

New proof for black hole spin

A team of international researchers has provided direct evidence that the supermassive black hole at the heart of galaxy M87 is spinning. The findings are based on 20 years of observational data, which show that gravitational interactions between the accretion disk and the black hole's spin cause the jet to wobble or precess.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateSep 27, 2023

Findings of international study could prove to be huge step forward in the treatment of heart failure

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that semaglutide significantly improves symptoms and physical limitations associated with heart failure. Patients who received the medication lost an average of 11% of their body weight and showed improved walking distances, compared to those on a placebo.

SourceUniversity Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 27, 2023

U of M Medical School professor receives $3.5 million to develop Tanzanian reproductive health curriculum for those with disabilities

A U of M Medical School professor has received a $3.5 million grant to develop a reproductive health curriculum for Tanzania that addresses the needs of people with disabilities. The project aims to improve healthcare services and build in-country capacity for comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare.

From passerine birds to cranes - Neolithic bird hunting in Upper Mesopotamia

In Southeast Anatolia, 11,000 years ago, early Neolithic settlers hunted a large spectrum of bird species, including small passerine birds and cranes, for meat and possibly ritual purposes. The extent of their bird-hunting activities varied between settlements, with some prioritizing certain species over others.

SourceStaatliche Naturwissenschaftliche Sammlungen Bayerns·JournalArchaeological and Anthropological Sciences·DateSep 27, 2023

When needs compete, love trumps thirst

A Cornell University-led study found that the brain's dopamine reward system dynamically retunes in response to changing priorities, prioritizing love over thirst. By using advanced techniques developed by researchers, they were able to track the brain's dopamine reward system and find for the first time that it flexibly tunes toward t...

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateSep 27, 2023

Research Spotlight: Association of food insecurity on body mass index change in a pediatric weight management intervention

A recent study published in Pediatric Obesity found that children from households with food insecurity experienced a significant increase in BMI, suggesting that food insecurity may hinder the effectiveness of pediatric obesity treatment. The researchers suggest that providers identify and address food insecurity in their patient popul...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateSep 27, 2023

Women seeking credibility in health care feel ‘on trial,’ struggle with constraints of double binds

A recent study by University of Illinois researchers highlights the struggles women face in establishing credibility for their medical problems and receiving proper treatment. These women engage in 'credibility work,' where they meticulously gather evidence, marshal witnesses, and carefully manage their appearance to convey validity. H...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalCommunication Research·TypeSurvey·DateSep 27, 2023

Down goes antimatter! Gravity's effect on matter's elusive twin is revealed

Researchers confirmed that antimatter falls under the influence of gravity, ruling out gravitational repulsion as a cause for its absence in the universe. The study used an antihydrogen experiment to observe individual atoms taking a downward path, providing a definitive answer to long-standing questions about antimatter's behavior.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Organic lasers have a bright future

Scientists at the University of St Andrews have developed an electrically driven organic semiconductor laser, overcoming a decades-long challenge. This breakthrough has significant implications for various industries, including communication, medicine, and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of St. Andrews·JournalNature·TypeNews article·DateSep 27, 2023

Why an unusual global export industry keeps growing in a developing country

The Citrus Growers` Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has played a crucial role in the industry's success, driving growth through a resilient coalition of growers and independent resources mandated by the government. The CGA invests in research and development to stay ahead of changing market demands and fosters competitive rivalry ...

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalEuropean Journal of Development Research·TypeCase study·DateSep 27, 2023

BU researchers describe advances in sample preparation, mass spectrometry analysis to improve identification of glycopeptides

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have improved methods for identifying glycopeptides, which are proteins with attached carbohydrates. Conventional mass spectrometry methods are sufficient for peptides with one glycan, but an additional step is necessary for those with two or more glycans.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

China University of Geosciences (Beijing) researchers provide new insights into the formation of the Tibetan plateau

Researchers used paleoaltimetry technique to reveal early mountain range uplift in Southern Tibetan Plateau. The study found that the region had achieved an elevation of approximately 3.5 kilometers by 63 to 61 million years ago, challenging established notions of Tibetan Plateau formation.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Strength is in this glass's DNA

Researchers fabricate a pure form of glass and coat specialized pieces of DNA with it to create a material stronger than steel but incredibly lightweight. This novel technology has inspired innovative applications in drug delivery, electronics, and more.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Sperm swimming is caused by the same patterns that are believed to dictate zebra stripes

A new study reveals that sperm tail movement follows the same mathematical template as zebra stripes and other natural patterns. This discovery, published in Nature Communications, suggests that flagellar undulations can arise spontaneously without external influence, using a reaction-diffusion system first proposed by Alan Turing.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Separating molecules requires lots of energy. This new, heat-resistant membrane could change that

A University at Buffalo-led research team has created a new, sturdier membrane that can withstand harsh environments associated with industrial separation processes. The membrane, made from an inorganic material called carbon-doped metal oxide, is a potential alternative to energy-intensive processes like distillation and crystallization.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2023

Blast away defects with lasers

A new laser-based process chain has been developed to fabricate fused silica optics with high laser-induced damage thresholds, overcoming conventional manufacturing limitations. The process uses CO2 lasers for uniform layer-by-layer surface removal, precisely eliminating subsurface mechanical damage and surface/subsurface contamination.

First experimental study to propose a therapy to correct memory deficit caused by disorders in the fetal alcohol spectrum

A study proposes a therapy to reverse memory deficits in mice exposed to alcohol during pregnancy and lactation, identifying the neurobiological mechanism responsible. The treatment involves pioglitazone, which stimulates PPAR receptors, alleviating cognitive memory deficits in individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Researchers create formula for first synthetic sugarcane molasses with fully reproducible composition

Researchers have developed a standardized synthetic molasses with a fully known composition that can be used as a culture medium for yeast fermentation. This breakthrough enables scientists to study the influence of specific components and develop bioprocesses worldwide, facilitating comparative research and industrial applications.

Novel bacterial proteins from seafloor shine light on climate and astrobiology

Scientists have identified a previously unknown class of bacterial proteins that suppress the growth of methane clathrates as effectively as commercial chemicals, but are non-toxic and scalable. This discovery has significant implications for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the safety of transporting natural gas.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023