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Science News for January 10, 2024


How ‘pioneers’ blaze the one trail that determines cell fate

Researchers have discovered how pioneer transcription factors, such as FOXA and OCT4, coordinate with epigenetic repressors to safeguard cell fate, enabling precise manipulation of cell fate in cellular programming and reprogramming. This breakthrough has important implications for scaling up organoid and tissue engineering technology.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalMolecular Cell·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 10, 2024

Observing macroscopic quantum effects in the dark

Researchers from the University of Innsbruck propose an experiment to observe macroscopic quantum effects in a dark potential created by electrostatic or magnetic forces. By letting a cooled nanoscale glass sphere evolve in this non-optical environment, they aim to rapidly generate a macroscopic quantum superposition state.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 10, 2024

UT Southwestern Medical Center biochemist Vincent Tagliabracci, recognized for potentially life-saving research in understanding how enzymes work

Vincent Tagliabracci, a UT Southwestern Medical Center biochemist, has received the 2024 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Award in Biological Sciences for his groundbreaking research on understanding how enzymes work. His discovery of pseudokinases could lead to new strategies to attack COVID-19.

Scaling up urban agriculture: Research team outlines roadmap

A new study proposes a framework for scaling up urban agriculture to leverage transformative food systems change, advance social-ecological resilience, and improve sustainability. The research highlights the potential benefits of urban agriculture, including decentralizing food supplies and mitigating environmental footprints.

We are much more sensitive to temperature than we ever thought: A Eurac Research study reveals

A Eurac Research study conducted in the terraXcube simulator found that humans can perceive temperature differences as small as 0.92 degrees Celsius. This sensitivity suggests an inherent characteristic of human perception, influencing our thoughts and actions. The study's results have implications for energy sustainability in buildings.

SourceEurac Research·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Nationwide study suggests link between medical cannabis for chronic pain and abnormal heart rhythm

A nationwide Danish study found a slightly increased risk of arrhythmia in patients taking medical cannabis for chronic pain. The risk was more than twice that of those not receiving cannabis, with the largest increases observed in older adults and those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2024

Participation in Vermont’s linking learning to careers program increases engagement with a wider array of vocational services and boosts earnings

The study found that participants in the LLC program used more preemployment transition services and vocational rehabilitation services, resulting in higher earnings. Demographic variation was minimal, with no significant differences in service uptake among groups.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Vocational Rehabilitation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024

A beating biorobotic heart aims to better simulate valves

A biorobotic heart with a silicone robotic pump system can mimic the structure and function of a healthy or diseased heart. The device allows surgeons and researchers to demonstrate various interventions while collecting real-time data, bridging gaps between current simulators and animal studies.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Creating exam questions with ChatGPT

A study by UKB researchers found that ChatGPT-generated exam questions were virtually indistinguishable from those created by experienced medical lecturers. The students were unable to correctly identify the origin of the question in almost half of the cases, highlighting the potential of AI-powered tools for medical studies.

SourceUniversitatsklinikum Bonn·JournalAcademic Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

ALS: blocking inflammation to reduce symptoms

Research suggests that structural changes in upper motor neurons send a signal to immune cells, leading to toxic effects on neurons and reduced synaptic connections. Blocking inflammation with a semi-synthetic drug can restore synaptic connections and improve ALS symptoms.

SourceUniversité Laval·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·DateJan 10, 2024

Rice University Engineer Ashok Veeraraghavan, Ph.D., recognized for revolutionary imaging technology that seeks to make the invisible visible

Ashok Veeraraghavan, Ph.D., has developed a new technology dubbed NeuWS that uses wavefront shaping and machine-learning algorithms to undo light scattering effects. This innovation could have lifesaving applications in various fields like firefighting, automotive, and medicine.

More siblings mean poorer mental health for teens

A study of 9,400 Chinese and 9,100 American eighth graders found that teens from larger families had poorer mental health. Closely spaced siblings were linked to the worst impacts on well-being. The 'resource dilution' explanation suggests that each child gets fewer parental resources as the family size increases.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024

Lithuanian researchers recycle surgical masks for hydrogen-rich gas production

Researchers from Kaunas University of Technology and Lithuanian Energy Institute investigate the possibilities of plasma gasification to convert surgical mask waste into hydrogen-rich syngas, which shows a 42% higher heating value than biomass. The obtained syngas can be used as clean fuel with low carbon emissions.

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Glass packaging with a mix of thermoelectric in the vias

Researchers have developed a thermal management technique for photonic packages using glass substrates and thermoelectric vias, enabling precise temperature control. The technology, termed SimTEC, combines through glass vias partially filled with copper and thermoelectric materials to reduce thermal resistance between chips.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateJan 10, 2024

Study finds high levels of job satisfaction among copy editors, little negative effects from pandemic

A new study from the University of Kansas found that copy editors experienced high job satisfaction despite the COVID-19 pandemic, with many reporting a passion for their work. The researchers also found that the pandemic did not significantly affect burnout or role overload among participants.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·TypeSurvey·DateJan 10, 2024

Nasal spray with antibodies could prevent COVID-19

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a nasal spray with IgA antibodies that can protect mice from SARS-CoV-2 infection. The treatment significantly diminished virus load in infected mice and showed stronger binding to the spike protein compared to original IgG antibodies.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

More than 900 chemicals, many found in consumer products and the environment, display breast-cancer causing traits

Scientists have discovered a way to predict breast cancer risk based on specific chemical traits, identifying over 900 chemicals that could contribute to the disease. These chemicals are commonly found in consumer products, food, and workplaces, and can alter hormones or damage DNA.

SourceSilent Spring Institute·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024

Baylor College of Medicine Neuroscientist Benjamin Deneen, Ph.D., recognized for groundbreaking research set to ultimately impact brain tumor patients and give potential insights into a wide range of developmental diseases

Dr. Deneen's research has revealed that astrocytes communicate with neurons, influencing brain circuits and animal behavior, potentially leading to new treatments for neurological disorders. His work could provide valuable insights into developmental neurobiology and brain diseases.

Preeclampsia and preterm birth risk may be reduced by calcium dose lower than current WHO standard

A new study found that low-dose calcium supplementation (500mg per day) was as effective as high-dose supplementation (1,500mg per day) in preventing preeclampsia, with no significant difference in preterm birth rates. The findings provide an opportunity to revise the WHO's current recommendation for pregnant women with low-calcium diets.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 10, 2024

Finding a home for the wandering mushrooms —— Phylogenetic and taxonomic updates of Agaricales

Researchers reconstructed the most resolved phylogenetic framework of Agaricales based on amino acid sequences, clarifying relationships among suborders and genera. A new classification system was proposed with 10 suborders, including formal publication of two new suborders, one new genus, and six new species.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalMycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology·DateJan 10, 2024

Researchers develop prime editors using Cas12a and circular RNAs in human cells

Scientists have created a new generation of prime editors based on the Cas12a protein and circular RNAs, expanding the scope of precision genome editing. The new editors show high editing efficiencies and low off-target effects, paving the way for diverse applications in biological research, disease treatment, and crop breeding.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

A methodology for regulating fuel stratification and improving fuel economy of GCI mode via double main-injection strategy

A new double main-injection (DMI) strategy has been proposed to regulate fuel stratification in Gasoline Compression Ignition (GCI) mode, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. The study found that simultaneous main-injection and exhaust gas recirculation can achieve rapid fuel supply and control of combustion.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers in Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Microplastics affect soil fungi depending on drought conditions

New research reveals that microplastic pollution affects soil fungi differently depending on moisture levels. In dry conditions, microplastics help retain water and may mitigate drought effects, while in well-watered environments, toxic chemicals leach into the soil, hindering fungal richness.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Microbiology·DateJan 10, 2024

Orbitally-induced strong monsoons facilitated early human dispersal to East Asia

Researchers found that the Asian summer monsoon's strengthening played a key role in Homo sapiens' dispersal from Africa to East Asia during the last interglacial period. The study integrated paleoanthropological data with high-resolution reconstructions of the monsoon, suggesting a link between climate change and human migration.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

New transactions of nonferrous metals society of china study uncovers low-temperature deformation mechanism of pure titanium

Researchers investigate grain size and temperature effects on Ti deformation at extremely low temperatures, finding that cryogenic temperatures trigger deformation twinning, boosting strength and ductility. The study proposes a modified Hall-Petch relationship to explain strengthening mechanisms at cryogenic temperatures.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Mushrooms, coffee grounds and natural pineapple fibers: The future of eco-friendly materials

Researchers have developed a novel eco-friendly material using mycelium, coffee grounds, and natural pineapple fibers, boasting biodegradability, customizable physical properties, and fire resistance. The production process is sustainable, utilizing renewable resources and minimizing energy consumption.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalMycology: An International Journal on Fungal Biology·DateJan 10, 2024

Unveiling the reproductive secrets of red-swamp crayfish

Researchers at Okayama University uncovered key reproductive characteristics of the red-swamp crayfish, highlighting the importance of hook length and chelae for identifying sexual status. The study also found high reproductive ability and fast growth rates compared to native Japanese crayfish.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Crustacean Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2024

Exposure to high humidity and temperature in pregnancy could influence blood pressure changes in childhood

New research from the University of Bristol found that exposure to high humidity and temperature during pregnancy can influence blood pressure changes in children. The study analyzed over 7,000 participants and found a steeper increase in blood pressure with higher relative humidity and a slower increase with higher temperature.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalJACC Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2024

NIH-supported researchers create single-cell atlas of the placenta during term labor

Researchers created a single-cell atlas of the human placenta, revealing changes in gene expression patterns among cell types. The study found that cells most affected by labor were in chorioamniotic membranes and generated inflammatory signaling.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Do symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder facilitate substance use as a coping method among children after a natural disaster?

A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that certain symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are associated with a higher risk of substance use among children after a natural disaster. The study identified irritable behavior and angry outburst symptoms as being linked to the greatest risk for coping through...

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateJan 10, 2024

Is there a common link between the physical and social worlds? Two brothers think so.

The Rutgers biophysical chemist and his brother, a political scientist, propose that parallels exist between the microscopic world of cells and molecules and human-forged organizations and political systems. They identify similarities in rules that apply to both realms, including stability concepts and cooperative phenomena.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 10, 2024

NASA Johnson Space Center engineer Kimberly A. Hambuchen, Ph.D., recognized for seminal research in developing new methods for making robots more autonomous and usable by humans across a time delay

Dr. Hambuchen's affordance template innovation allows remote humans to interact with robots as supervisors, guiding them to complete tasks while maintaining autonomy. This technology has significant implications for NASA's space exploration and deep-sea exploration, overcoming the challenge of time delays.

Architectures, opportunities, and challenges of Internet-of-batteries for electric Vehicles

The Internet-of-Batteries (IoB) system utilizes IoT principles to gather data from EV batteries, analyzing health and performance, identifying faults, and optimizing usage. Machine learning approaches enhance decision-making for improved battery performance, increased range, and reduced costs.

SourceGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Unveiling recurrent foot-and-mouth disease in the Middle East

A comprehensive study reveals repeated incursions of Foot-and-Mouth Disease virus in Israel and neighboring areas, emphasizing the importance of improved surveillance, vaccination efforts, and cross-border cooperation. The research underscores the necessity for unified strategies to effectively combat FMD and reduce its economic and ag...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalVirology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2024

Discovery: One of the deleted genes linked to Williams syndrome is responsible for mitochondrial function and regulation in the brain’s nerve cells

Researchers found that the deletion of the Gtf2i gene impairs mitochondrial organelle formation and function, leading to abnormal cell behavior and neurodevelopmental pathologies. This discovery sheds light on the mechanism behind Williams syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterized by cognitive and social impairments.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 10, 2024

Joking apart: What men and women find funny

A new study published in De Gruyter journal Humor found that men rate visual jokes higher than women, who prefer jokes involving political commentary or dynamics of close relationships. Both sexes enjoyed cartoons with complex romance themes.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalHumor - International Journal of Humor Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Wristband monitors provide detailed account of air pollution exposure

A new study using personal wristband monitors has collected unprecedented data on air pollution exposures in pregnant individuals in New York City. The findings identified complex interactions between demographics and behaviors that shape exposure to individual compounds, highlighting the need for further research to understand these p...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Tactile lithophane development makes hard scientific data available to students with blindness

A Baylor University chemistry professors develop a codex using lithophane, converting images from scientific textbooks into tactile formats for students with blindness. The study found that students with blindness can accurately describe, recall and distinguish high-resolution data and imagery at an average accuracy of 88%.

SourceBaylor University·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2024

Dry-cleaning fluid becomes a synthetic chemist's treasure

A new method has been developed to convert the widely used dry-cleaning solvent perc into carbonate esters and chloroform, valuable building blocks for further organic synthesis. This clean process uses on-demand UV activation, eliminating the need for toxic source materials.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Countries and companies need to address declining global fertility rates, doctors say

The global fertility rate is declining, with many countries predicted to have a population decline of more than 50% by 2100. Infertility risk factors, such as environmental pollution and smoking, are on the rise. Governments and companies must take action to address these issues and improve access to affordable fertility care.

SourceInternational Federation of Fertility Societies·JournalHuman Reproduction Update·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 10, 2024