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Science News for September 5, 2023


New research sheds light on origins of social behaviors

Fruit fly research suggests visual system is involved in regulating social behaviors, which could have implications for understanding human psychiatric conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. Altering GABA signaling in the brain affects social inhibitions, leading to increased courtship behavior in males.

SourceCornell University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 5, 2023

Study: Health equity an important aspect of improving quality of care provided to children in emergency departments

A new study by Indiana University School of Medicine found that increasing pediatric readiness in emergency departments can reduce racial disparities in children and adolescents with acute medical emergencies. The higher the level of readiness, the lower the disparity between racial and ethnic groups.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 5, 2023

Resistant starch supplement reduces liver triglycerides in people with fatty liver disease

A 4-month randomized controlled trial found that daily intake of resistant starch can lower liver triglycerides and liver enzymes associated with liver injury and inflammation. The treatment group had a different microbiota composition and functionality compared to the control group, leading to improved liver conditions.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 5, 2023

Deciphering the "highway code" of our cells

A UNIGE team has identified a new mechanism governing microtubule growth, involving two proteins that form a liquid-liquid phase separation at the tip of the microtubule. This discovery opens up unprecedented prospects for developing new treatments that can act at the heart of cells.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateSep 5, 2023

Fossil spines reveal deep sea’s past

A research team led by the University of Göttingen has discovered fossil spines that indicate the existence of irregular echinoids in the deep sea for at least 104 million years. The study provides insights into the past, including a mass extinction event that caused smaller species to thrive and changes in spine morphology.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

‘Meta-synergy’ for the battle against cancer

Researchers at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology developed an AI tool to identify powerful drug combinations that significantly enhance cancer treatment. The 'meta-synergy' approach uses artificial intelligence and text mining to find optimal pairs of drugs, resulting in highly effective nanomedicines with fewer side effects.

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 5, 2023

New insights into melanoma development and therapy

Researchers from Osaka University have identified a novel mechanism by which GREB1 Isoform4 is involved in pyrimidine synthesis and causes malignant melanoma. The study found that GREB1 Is4 promotes cancer cell proliferation and regulates pyrimidine metabolism, suggesting it as a new therapeutic target for melanoma.

SourceOsaka University·JournalOncogene·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023

Obesity experts spotlight safety gap in clinical trials and drug labeling for people with obesity

A new opinion piece highlights the safety gap in clinical trials and drug labeling for people with obesity, arguing that correct dosing instructions should be included on labels. The authors recommend a three-pronged approach to address this gap, including conducting studies in people with obesity before market approval.

SourceEmerald Lake Safety·JournalHealth Affairs Forefront·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 5, 2023

Newly identified cardiac progenitor cells shed light on diversity in complexity of heart formation

Researchers have identified specific progenitor cells in mouse embryos that differentiate into left ventricle cardiomyocytes, highlighting the complexity of early heart formation. The discovery provides insights into congenital heart disease mechanisms and may lead to improved treatments for left ventricle-related issues.

SourceNational Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 2023

Experts propose new global definition of acute respiratory distress syndrome

A new global definition of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been proposed by experts, expanding the criteria to include non-invasive ventilation and pulse oximetry. The updated definition aims to improve recognition of ARDS at an earlier stage, allowing for more effective interventions.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 5, 2023

Clarissa Campbell and Barbara Maier at CeMM receive ERC Starting Grants

Clarissa Campbell and Barbara Maier receive prestigious ERC Starting Grants for their research on the interplay between the immune system and metabolism, as well as the role of lymph nodes in cancer. The grants will support their work on understanding immune cells in the gut and the crosstalk between tumors and lymph nodes.

A free online tool can help prostate cancer patients save on out-of-pocket drug costs

A free online tool can help prostate cancer patients save thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket drug costs by comparing Medicare Part D prescription plans. The Medicare Part D Plan Finder identifies significant savings for patients taking abiraterone or enzalutamide, two common prescription drugs for advanced prostate cancer.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalUrology Practice·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 5, 2023

Efforts to restore federal forests in eastern Oregon are working, Oregon State research shows

A study by Oregon State University found that forest thinning is enhancing native biodiversity and improving the resilience of older trees on federal lands in eastern Oregon. The research, led by James Johnston, involved long-term monitoring and partnerships between OSU, the US Forest Service, and local groups.

SourceOregon State University·JournalForest Ecology and Management·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

OHSU scientists discover new cause of Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia

Researchers found that ferroptosis, a form of cell death caused by iron buildup, destroys microglia cells in the brain's immune response, contributing to cognitive decline. The study's findings may lead to the development of compounds targeting microglial degeneration, offering new hope for Alzheimer's and vascular dementia treatments.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnals of Neurology·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 5, 2023

Lithium recovery

Scientists introduce a novel approach to recover lithium from used LIBs by using aprotic organic solutions to avoid hydrogen gas production and simplify the process. The new method is efficient, inexpensive, and reduces waste, making it an attractive option for sustainable recycling of lithium-ion batteries.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023

Crowdsourcing contests: Understanding what brings high rewards, low risk

Researchers found that crowdsourcing contests with professionals and public voting yield the highest returns and lowest volatility in stock prices. However, new product development contests carry higher risks due to uncertainty about commercial success. Large brands benefit more from crowdsourcing than small or niche brands.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Marketing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 5, 2023

Perspective: Building megaprojects on time and under-budget

Megaprojects like Boston's 'Big Dig' are plagued by ballooning costs and extended timelines due to a lack of experience among engineers and inadequate design margins. The authors propose several solutions, including modular systems, integrated EPC contracts, and fostering a culture of curiosity and adaptability

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 5, 2023

Active children are more resilient

Research found that active children produce less cortisol in stressful situations and exhibit reduced physiological stress reactions. Regular exercise may also help prevent high cortisol levels during exams by creating a positive association with the hormone.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Science and Medicine in Sport·DateSep 5, 2023

New research predicts effects of marine heatwaves on top ocean predators

A new study forecasts the impact of marine heatwaves on top ocean predators, revealing varied effects and potential redistributions across international boundaries. The researchers developed models to provide real-time predictions of how species shift during heatwaves, informing proactive climate-ready management strategies.

SourceNOAA Fisheries West Coast Region·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023

KMOU scientists develop an energy-efficient wireless power and information transfer system

Researchers from Korea Maritime and Ocean University developed a new framework for solving the energy efficiency problem in IIoTs. The proposed SWIPT-NOMA-DAS system is five times more energy efficient than existing systems, with significant improvements in performance and battery life extension.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023

Scientists decipher the fingertip’s ‘memory’

Researchers investigated how previous forces affect tactile neuron responses in the fingertip, revealing a viscoelastic memory that influences brain signals. This discovery may aid in navigating daily manual tasks by providing accurate motor commands.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateSep 5, 2023

Why are male kidneys more vulnerable to disease than female kidneys? USC Stem Cell-led mouse study points to testosterone

A USC Stem Cell-led mouse study reveals that lowering testosterone can improve the resilience of male kidneys by reducing their vulnerability to disease. The researchers also found that three months of calorie restriction has a similar effect, suggesting new potential treatments for kidney diseases.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023

Bit by bit, microplastics from tyres are polluting our waterways

A Griffith-led study found urban stormwater particles from tyre wear are the most prevalent microplastic, with up to 59 particles per litre of water. Researchers developed strategies to capture and remove these contaminants, including a bag made of 0.2 millimetre mesh that reduced microplastics in treated water by up to 88%.

SourceGriffith University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

Low loss Mie scatterer enhanced Q and chirality control in silicon microring

Researchers developed lithographically defined asymmetric and symmetric Mie-scatterers for subwavelength control of wave transmission and reflections. The device platform enables pre-defined chiral light propagation and backscattering-free resonances, needed for various applications such as frequency combs and photon blockade.

September Issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover new solutions addressing structural racism, childhood trauma, suicidal behaviors, and more

The latest issues of American Psychiatric Association journals focus on postpartum depression, structural racism, and suicidal behaviors. The September issue highlights new solutions to address these topics, including Power Redistribution and Upending White Supremacy in Community Mental Health.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 5, 2023

JNM publishes consensus statement on patient selection and appropriate use of Lu-177 PSMA-617 radionuclide therapy

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has issued a new consensus statement to standardize the selection and management of patients with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) treated with Lu-177 PSMA radionuclide therapy. The statement recommends performing PSMA PET within three months of treatment or sin...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 5, 2023

Can an artificial nose detect food spoilage?

A new artificial olfactory system, integrated on a single chip, detects food spoilage by identifying low levels of hydrogen sulfide and ammonia gases. The system tracks freshness scores in real-time during the spoilage process.

SourceWiley·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 5, 2023

UMass Amherst researcher shines light on effectiveness of school sunscreen legislation

New research by UMass Amherst economist Brandyn Churchill links state-level 'SUNucate' laws to increased interest in sun protection, with a notable increase in sunscreen use among high school students. The legislation is associated with higher Google search volumes and awareness among historically low-users.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalHealth Behavior and Policy Review·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on emergency department use in British Columbia

A new study assesses COVID-19's impact on ED visits in BC, revealing a 42% reduction in respiratory issues and 35% drop in mental health concerns during the pandemic. Visits returned to pre-pandemic levels in May 2021, with some areas experiencing higher volumes due to heat-related overdoses.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023

Study of “revolving door” in Washington shows one-third of HHS appointees leave for industry jobs

A new study by USC Schaeffer Center and Harvard University found that almost one-third of HHS appointees transition to private industry jobs, raising questions about potential biases in government decision-making. The study focused on career histories of 766 HHS employees between 2004 and 2020.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 5, 2023

Scientists synthesize new organometallic “sandwich” compound capable of holding more electrons

Scientists at OIST have synthesized a new metallocene compound capable of holding up to 21 electrons, surpassing the traditional 18-electron limit. This breakthrough has significant potential for applications in medicine, catalysis, and energy, and could lead to novel materials with improved stability and performance.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023

Measuring children’s looking behavior yields new tool to help diagnose autism earlier, research shows

Researchers have developed a new tool that measures children's looking behavior to predict expert clinical diagnosis of autism in children between 16-30 months. The tool provides objective measurements of social disability, verbal ability, and non-verbal learning skills.

SourceChildren's Healthcare of Atlanta·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 5, 2023

Electrifying heavy-duty vehicles could reduce environmental inequalities

A new Northwestern University-led study finds that electrifying 30% of heavy-duty vehicles in the lower Great Lakes region, including Chicago, would significantly reduce pollution and save hundreds of lives annually. The benefits are largely concentrated in disadvantaged communities, where residents face disproportionate health burdens.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023

Study reveals disparities within NHS leadership

A recent study from Staffordshire University found that AHPs are underrepresented in strategic leadership positions within the NHS, with only 14% of Chief AHP roles having a presence on executive boards. The report highlights a need for standardised titles and mandated representation to harness the untapped potential of this workforce.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalBMJ Leader·TypeSurvey·DateSep 5, 2023

Aging alters pancreatic circadian rhythm

Researchers discovered that aging alters the pancreas's circadian rhythm by reorganizing its transcriptome. The study found that fibroblasts play a crucial role in regulating this reorganization, which affects the organ's resilience to aging-related pathologies.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalAging-US·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

Study examines role of religion in substance use services, finds it's often located in racially diverse communities

A study by University of Kansas and Georgetown University found that facilities with more religious orientation offered a wider range of services and were located in racially diverse communities. This can help service providers make better referrals and provide a roadmap for other communities to better understand their substance use se...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Religion & Spirituality in Social Work Social Thought·TypeSurvey·DateSep 5, 2023

A solid battery electrolyte with high performance

A new solid-state electrolyte has been designed with a three-dimensional mesh structure, achieving high ionic conductivity and fast lithium ion migration numbers. This material could be a good choice for next-generation all-solid-state lithium-based batteries with high energy density.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 5, 2023

The limestone spheroids of ‘Ubeidiya: Intentional imposition of symmetric geometry by early hominins?

A team of archaeologists has found evidence of intentionally crafted limestone spheroids at the Ubeidiya site, dating back 1.4 million years. The discovery challenges existing beliefs about early hominin capabilities and technological achievements, suggesting a desire for symmetrical shapes in stone.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023