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Science News Archive September 2023 - Page 22


Page 22 of 37

Using topology, Brown researchers advance understanding of how cells organize themselves

Using computational topology, Brown researchers have developed an algorithm that profiles shapes and spatial patterns in embryos, enabling the study of how cells assemble into tissue-like architectures. The new approach uses persistence images to rapidly compare large datasets, reducing computation time from hours to seconds.

SourceBrown University·Journalnpj Systems Biology and Applications·DateSep 14, 2023

When it comes to starting a family, timing is everything

A new Cochrane review suggests that timed intercourse using urine ovulation tests can improve live birth and pregnancy rates, especially in women under 40. The study found that timing intercourse around the fertile period increased chances of successful conception by 20-28%.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 14, 2023

The ISSCR introduces “checklist” to promote global best practices for human stem cell research

The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) has introduced a 'checklist' to promote global best practices for human stem cell research. The checklist aims to increase transparency and clarity in the reporting of key quality control measures, enabling authors to disclose critical experimental details.

SourceCell Press·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateSep 14, 2023

LSU Health New Orleans study shows the major measure of diabetes is significantly higher in young Black patients

A recent study published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that HbA1c levels are markedly higher in young black youth compared to whites with type 1 diabetes. This disparity can lead to increased risk of hypoglycemia and long-term complications if primarily used for insulin management.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Diabetes Science and Technology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Evolution wired human brains to act like supercomputers

Researchers have confirmed that human brains use Bayesian inference to process visual information, allowing for precise interpretation and speed. This natural ability enables people to outperform machines in tasks such as recognizing objects in images, with implications for fields like artificial intelligence and clinical neurology.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Preventing the tissue's response to stiffness may be key to slowing the progression of breast tumors

A recent study led by IBEC demonstrates that laminin, a protein present in healthy breast tissues, prevents the effects of stiffening, protecting cells against tumor growth. The researchers observed that cells seeded on laminin-rich gel exhibited a significantly less pronounced mechanical response to substrate stiffness.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Members of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses support efforts to promote racial equity

The National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN) survey results suggest that over 90% of its members believe the organization should pursue racial equity work. The organization has received specific suggestions for a strategic plan, including prioritizing research initiatives, providing continuing education credits, and increasing di...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalAdvances in Neonatal Care·DateSep 14, 2023

Stretching the truth: New research reveals negative effects of exaggerative political statements

A new study from City, University of London, found that 'stretching arguments' by politicians can have a significantly negative effect on public opinion. Researchers discovered that making invalid claims can dilute over time, but the cumulative effects could undermine democracy and democratic procedures.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalEuropean Political Science Review·DateSep 14, 2023

Worse results and more drop-outs when teaching is in English

A new study by Chalmers University of Technology and KTH Royal Institute of Technology found that Swedish students performing in English-language programming courses obtained significantly worse results and dropped out prematurely compared to their peers studying in Swedish. The researchers measured student performance based on test qu...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Linguistics Review·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2023

Peer-led patient navigation helps minoritized patients engage in their own mental healthcare

A pilot study shows significant improvements in self-reported mental health and depression among racially and ethnically minoritized veterans who received peer-led patient navigation. The program, developed by the Regenstrief Institute, supports patients in identifying their healthcare priorities and communicating with clinicians.

SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalPatient Education and Counseling·DateSep 14, 2023

UCI researchers announce publication of an open-label clinical trial suggesting that N-acetylglucosamine restores neurological function in Multiple Sclerosis patients

A study published by UCI researchers found that N-acetylglucosamine reduced multiple inflammation and neurodegeneration markers in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. The dietary supplement also improved neurological function in 30% of patients, suggesting a potential new treatment for the condition.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of Neuroinflammation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 14, 2023

Keeping the ‘warm glow’ of giving going significantly boosts repeat blood donations

New research shows that boosting the 'warm glow' feeling people experience after giving blood significantly increases repeat blood donations. This research, led by the University of Nottingham, highlights the importance of reinforcing feelings of gratitude and identity as a blood donor to encourage long-term helping behavior.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Human Behaviour·TypeSurvey·DateSep 14, 2023

Study finds spiritual coping behaviors may be key to enhanced trauma recovery of Black men who survive firearm injury

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing explore how spiritual coping behaviors help survivors of urban firearm injury recover. The study suggests that combining culturally sensitive spiritual resources with psychotherapy may lead to effective trauma-informed care for injured urban Black men.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalArchives of Psychiatric Nursing·DateSep 14, 2023

Clever lapwings use cover to hide in plain sight

Research shows that lapwings can hide their eggs by using small variations in the terrain, making them invisible to ground predators. The study found that habitat geometry rather than visual acuity limits the visibility of a ground-nesting bird's clutch to terrestrial predators.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEcology and Evolution·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Uncover the“black box” of developmental failure of implanting cloned embryos by 3D in vitro culture system

Researchers have developed a new 3D in vitro culture system that visualizes peri-implantation development of cloned embryos, revealing epigenetic mediated barriers to successful implantation. The study identifies persistent Wnt signaling activity as a key obstacle and presents a rescue approach to improve cloning efficiency.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateSep 14, 2023

Artificial Intelligence: AI may outperform most humans at creative thinking task

A study published in Scientific Reports found that large language model AI chatbots can generate creative ideas at least as well as the average human in a divergent thinking task. However, human participants with the highest scores still outperformed the best chatbot responses, especially in categories such as fluency and flexibility.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

How MSU is working to solve range anxiety

Researchers at MSU are working on a project to create an electric autonomous vehicle that can travel long distances without charging, addressing the issue of range anxiety. The team is exploring battery chemistry, electrical systems, and materials to develop a fully autonomous, lightweight all-terrain vehicle.

All work and no play will really make a dull life - new research reveals

A study across three countries found that individuals who prioritize achievement over enjoyment experience lower happiness the next day. In contrast, those who value freedom report a 13% increase in well-being, including better sleep quality and life satisfaction. Relaxation and hobbies also lead to a significant boost in well-being.

SourceUniversity of Essex·JournalJournal of Personality·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023

Take the money now or later? Financial scarcity doesn’t lead to poor decision making

A study published by the American Psychological Association finds that people experiencing financial scarcity make decisions based on their immediate needs, prioritizing short-term gains only when scarcity threatens their most pressing requirements. Researchers examined how participants' choices changed depending on the timeline of the...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 14, 2023

UH Research Team Awarded $4M to Convert Plastic Waste into Useful MaterialsUH research team awarded $4M to convert plastic waste into useful materials

A UH research team is developing innovative chemical processes to transform plastic waste into useful materials, aiming to create new ways to reuse and recycle polyolefins. The project seeks to produce durable thermoset materials that can be recycled multiple times, reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular plastics economy.

Making hydrogen from waste plastic could pay for itself

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a method to produce clean hydrogen gas from waste plastics using low-emissions technology. By utilizing rapid flash Joule heating, they can convert plastic waste into high-yield hydrogen and valuable graphene, which could offset the production costs of clean hydrogen.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2023

Women receiving inflated risks from genetic testing could undergo unnecessary breast surgery

Research suggests that women carrying disease-causing BRCA variants may face incorrect risk assessments of 60-80% for breast cancer, when in fact the true risk is less than 20%. This has led to unnecessary breast surgeries. The study aims to inform informed decision-making and responsible communication of genetic risks.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2023