ScienceDaily: Health - August 08, 2024
Top health research news
3D-printed blood vessels bring artificial organs closer to reality
Lab-grown organs are a long-time 'holy grail' of organ engineering that has yet to be achieved, but new research has brought that goal a big step closer to reality using a new 3D-printing method called co-SWIFT. co-SWIFT prints branching networks of double-layered vessels that are infused with smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells into living human cardiac tissue, and can even replicate patient-specific vascular structures,indicating that it could one day be used for personalized medicine.
Pesticide contamination is more than apple skin deep
Pesticides and herbicides are critical to ensuring food security worldwide, but these substances can present a safety risk to people who unwittingly ingest them. Protecting human health, therefore, demands sensitive analytical methods to identify even trace levels of potentially harmful substances. Now, researchers have developed a high-tech imaging method to detect pesticide contamination at low levels, and its application on fruits reveals that current food safety practices may be insufficient.
Image: Mariana Serdynska/Shutterstock.com
Blood test can help predict chronic lung disease in preterm babies
A blood test can help predict which preterm babies will go onto develop chronic lung disease, allowing for earlier diagnosis and more targeted treatments, according to a new study.
Walking the walk, scientists develop motion-compatible brain scanner
An upright neuroimaging device developed by neuroscientists, physicists and engineers allows patients to move around while undergoing a brain scan.
Currently, the first-choice treatment for PTSD is exposure-based psychotherapy, where therapists help rewire the emotions associated with the traumatic memory in the patient's brain, shifting from fear and arousal to a more neutral response. However, up to 50% of patients fail to respond well to this treatment. In a new study scientists showed for the first time that reactivating therapeutically-altered memories during sleep leads to more brain activity related to memory processing, which is associated with a reduction in PTSD symptoms.
Most existing heat wave indices fail to capture heat wave severity
Even though climate change is bringing more frequent and severe heat waves, there is no standard, global way to measure heat-wave severity, and existing indices have different thresholds for defining dangerous heat-stress conditions. Researchers report that five out of six existing heat-wave indices were unable to capture the severity and spatial distribution of recent lethal heat waves in India, Spain, and the USA. The sixth index -- the lethal heat-stress index -- was better able to identify dangerous heat-stress conditions, particularly in low-humidity regions.
Nasal microbiome: Depriving multi-resistant 'bugs' of iron
Whether dangerous staphylococci survive in the nose depends on what other bacteria are present -- and how they obtain iron.
Drug bypasses suppressive immune cells to unleash immunotherapy
Immunobiologists found that a subset of immune cells that normally puts the brakes on the immune system to prevent it from attacking the body's healthy cells inadvertently also dampens cancer immunotherapy.
Dozing at the wheel? Not with these fatigue-detecting earbuds
To help protect drivers and machine operators from the dangers of drifting off, engineers have created prototype earbuds that can detect the signs of drowsiness in the brain. In a new study, the researchers show that their Ear EEG platform is sensitive enough to detect alpha waves, a pattern of brain activity that increases when you close your eyes or start to fall asleep.
Lonely people tend to have more nightmares, new research shows
People who are lonely are more apt to have bad dreams.
Scientists use DNA methylation patterns as a roadmap for identifying causes of severe epilepsies in children.
Scientists reach consensus for fasting terminology
38 scientists from five continents presented an international consensus on fasting terminology and key definitions. The recent study reflects the increasing popularity of diets tied to fasting and a significant increase in scientific studies of fasting. While the application of fasting is rapidly growing, there was previously no globally established terminology.
New York City's fireworks display prompts temporary surge of air pollution
In 2023, roughly 60,000 firework shells exploded above Manhattan's East River as part of Macy's Fourth of July show. The resulting air pollutant levels were many times higher in the hours after the display than those seen when smoke from a Canadian wildfire had blanketed the area a month before, according to the results of a new study.
What happens to your brain when you drink with friends?
Grab a drink with friends at happy hour and you're likely to feel chatty, friendly and upbeat. But grab a drink alone and you may experience feelings of depression. Researchers think they now know why this happens.
Researchers create new treatment and vaccine for flu and various coronaviruses
Researchers have discovered new ways of preventing and treating respiratory viruses. In two new papers, the team reports the development and validation of NanoSTING, a nasal spray, as a broad-spectrum immune activator for controlling infection against multiple respiratory viruses; and the development of NanoSTING-SN, a pan-coronavirus nasal vaccine, that can protect against infection and disease by all members of the coronavirus family.
People's moral values change with the seasons
A new psychology study has revealed regular seasonal shifts in people's moral values. The research analyzed survey responses from more than 230,000 people in the U.S. over 10 years and revealed that people's endorsement of moral values that promote group cohesion and conformity is stronger in the spring and fall than it is in the summer and winter. This has potential implications for politics, law and health -- including the timing of elections and court cases.
Scientists probe molecular cause of COVID-19 related diarrhea, revealing potential treatments
Working with human stem cells that form a kind of 'mini intestine-in-a-dish,' scientists say they have found several molecular mechanisms for COVID-19-related diarrhea, suggesting potential ways to control it.
Hospital pneumonia diagnoses are uncertain, revised more than half the time, study finds
An AI-based analysis of over 2 million hospital visits has found that most of the time, a pneumonia diagnosis made in the hospital will change from a patient's entrance to their discharge -- either because someone who was initially diagnosed with pneumonia ended up with a different final diagnosis, or because a final diagnosis of pneumonia was missed when a patient entered the hospital.
Soft gold enables connections between nerves and electronics
Gold does not readily lend itself to being turned into long, thin threads. But researchers have now managed to create gold nanowires and develop soft electrodes that can be connected to the nervous system. The electrodes are soft as nerves, stretchable and electrically conductive, and are projected to last for a long time in the body.
Ketogenic Diet may reduce friendly gut bacteria and raise cholesterol levels
A study reveals that ketogenic low-carbohydrate diets can increase cholesterol levels and reduce beneficial gut bacteria, specifically Bifidobacterium.
Sport or snack? How our brain decides
The brain chemical orexin is crucial when we choose between sport and the tasty temptations that beckon everywhere we turn. This research finding could also help people who find it difficult to motivate themselves to exercise.
ALS diagnosis and survival linked to metals in blood, urine
People with higher levels of metals found in their blood and urine may be more likely to be diagnosed with -- and die from -- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, a new study suggests. Investigators also discovered that participants working in occupations with a higher likelihood of metal exposure had increased levels of metal mixtures in their blood and urine. Researchers say by avoiding high risk activities associated with metal exposures, individuals might lower their overall exposure and potentially mitigate risk.
Smallest arm bone in human fossil record sheds light on the dawn of Homo floresiensis
A new study reports the discovery of extremely rare early human fossils from the Indonesian island of Flores, including an astonishingly small adult limb bone. Dated to about 700,000 years old, the new findings shed light on the evolution of Homo floresiensis, the so-called 'Hobbits' of Flores whose remains were uncovered in 2003 at Liang Bua cave in the island's west.
Meteorin-like protein drains energy from T cells, limiting immune system's power to fight cancer
A protein called Meteorin-like (METRNL) in the tumor microenvironment saps energy from T cells, thereby severely limiting their ability to fight cancer.
Horse miscarriages offer clues to causes of early human pregnancy loss
A study of horses -- which share many important similarities with humans in their chromosomes and pregnancies -- revealed that 42% of miscarriages and spontaneous abortions in the first two months of pregnancy were due to complications from an extra set of chromosomes, a condition called triploidy.
New method tracks how psychedelics affect neurons in minutes
A new tool to track the neurons and molecules activated in the brain by psychedlic drugs could help scientists unlock the benefits of psychedelic treatments for patients with brain disorders.
Could this new drug turn back the clock on multiple sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) degrades the protective insulation around nerve cells, leaving their axons, which carry electrical impulses, exposed like bare wires. This can cause devastating problems with movement, balance and vision; and without treatment, it can lead to paralysis, loss of independence and a shortened lifespan.
Forecasting climate's impact on a debilitating disease
In Brazil, climate and other human-made environmental changes threaten decades-long efforts to fight schistosomiasis, a widespread and debilitating parasitic disease. Now, researchers have developed models that can predict how the disease risk will shift in response to environmental changes.
Preventing Parkinson's disease may lie in seaweed antioxidants
A research team examined the effect of Ecklonia cava polyphenols on the prevention of Parkinson's disease. It was found that the oral intake of the seaweed antioxidants restores motor function and protects dopaminergic neurons in model mice, while cellular experiments revealed the biochemical interaction of their preventive effect.
Scientists create a cell that precludes malignant growth
Researchers succeeded in creating cells whose proliferation can be controlled. The technique enables new and safe cell therapies.
State-level, out-of-pocket insulin caps do not substantially increase utilization
In a study, a cohort of researchers evaluated the effects of state-level insulin out-of-pocket costs across states and payers and over time. The team found that state-level caps on insulin out-of-pocket costs do not significantly increase insulin claims for patients with Type 1 or patients using insulin to manage Type 2 diabetes. Study results could help inform policies aimed at better delivering cost-capped insulin to patients struggling with insulin affordability.
Natural bacteria compound offers safe skin lightening
Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, a pigment that shields human skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. However, issues arise when the mechanism for renewing dead cells, which helps regulate melanin accumulation, malfunctions. In a study, researchers discovered that the metabolite cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr) from Corynebacterium tuberculostearicum effectively inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme crucial for melanin synthesis. These findings suggest promising applications for cyclo(L-Pro-L-Tyr) as a safe additive in cosmetics.
Why virus causing cold sores does not spread to devastating brain infection
A previously unknown defence mechanism in the brain prevents herpesvirus from infecting the brain's nerve cells.
If somebody complains that it hurts to think, they may be onto something, as mental exertion appears to be associated with unpleasant feelings in many situations, according to new research.
AI for mental health screening may carry biases based on gender, race
A growing body of AI tools screen how people talk, searching for subtle changes that could indicate mental health concerns like depression or anxiety. A study finds that these tools don't perform consistently across people from different genders and races.
An assistant clinical professor developed a specialized dance and movement therapy (DMT) program to meet the unique needs of youth from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds to foster a sense of community and connection.
Ultrafine particles linked to over 1,000 deaths per year in Canada's two largest cities
A new study conducted in Canada's two largest cities has linked about 1,100 premature deaths per year to an unregulated air pollutant. Ultrafine particles (UFPs) primarily come from vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Canada's federal and provincial governments have not set concentration limits for UFPs, as they have for larger fine particles known as PM2.5.
Honey added to yogurt supports probiotic cultures for digestive health
If you enjoy a bowl of plain yogurt in the morning, adding a spoonful of honey is a delicious way to sweeten your favorite breakfast food. It also supports the probiotic cultures in the popular fermented dairy product, according to two new studies.
Tradition meets transformation for Maasai women
A new study reveals that a changing Africa is creating avenues of empowerment for Maasai women.
Improved chemokine homing enhances CAR T--cell therapy for osteosarcoma
Investigators identified a chemokine/chemokine receptor mismatch for osteosarcoma (i.e., osteosarcomas secrete chemokines for which CAR T cells do not express receptors). The researchers modified CAR T cells targeting the osteosarcoma antigen B7-H3 to express CXCR2 or CXCR6 receptors, which recognize chemokines (CXCL8 or CXCL16) secreted by osteosarcoma.
New safety checklist aims to prevent side effects in patients with arthritis
Researchers develop a checklist to improve patient safety in the prescription of antirheumatic drugs.
What researchers know about the genetic complexity of schizophrenia, to date
A new review article outlines the genetic, neurobiological, and environmental foundations for schizophrenia.
New study highlights scale and impact of long COVID
Researchers analyzed dozens of previous studies into long COVID to examine the number and range of people affected, the underlying mechanisms of disease, the many symptoms that patients develop, and current and future treatments.
Controlling thickness in fruit fly hearts reveals new pathway for heart disease
A new study details how a protein previously associated with regulating metabolism in the liver also plays a part in maintaining a healthy heart by ensuring that the heart wall is neither too thick nor too thin.
Discovery of a new population of macrophages promoting lung repair after viral infections
Researchers have discovered a new population of macrophages, important innate immune cells that populate the lungs after injury caused by respiratory viruses. These macrophages are instrumental in repairing the pulmonary alveoli. This groundbreaking discovery promises to revolutionize our understanding of the post-infectious immune response and opens the door to new regenerative therapies.
New compound effective against flesh-eating bacteria
Researchers have developed a compound that is effective against common bacteria that can lead to rare, dangerous illnesses.
Known for their role in allergic reactions, mast cells have long been recognised as key players in our immune system. When they encounter allergens, they release chemicals that trigger typical allergy symptoms such as tissue swelling and inflammation. Now, researchers have discovered a hidden talent of mast cells: they can capture and use another type of immune cell called neutrophils. This surprising discovery sheds new light on how our immune system works, particularly during allergic reactions.
White matter may aid recovery from spinal cord injuries
Scientists are focusing on a previously understudied part of the brain and spinal cord -- white matter. Their discoveries could lead to treatments that restore nerve activity through the targeted delivery of electromagnetic stimuli or drugs.
Reduction in folate intake linked to healthier aging in animal models
Scientists found that decreasing folate intake can support healthier metabolisms in aging animal models, challenging the conventional belief that high folate consumption universally benefits health.
Feeling judged by your doctor? You might be right
New research shows that many people believe they may be judged if they share mistaken beliefs with their care team -- and that doctors really do take strongly negative views of patients who disclose incorrect or unreasonable beliefs.
Native Hawaiians face higher rates of accelerated biological aging, study finds
A new study has found that Native Hawaiians experience higher accelerated biological aging in comparison to White and Japanese American residents.
Circular RNAs: The new frontier in cancer research
Unravelling the complexities of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in cancer biology has positioned scientists on the cusp of revolutionary breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. A new study predicts remarkable potential for circular RNAs to improve cancer treatment and patient outcomes within the next 5-10 years.
Novel sequencing approaches highlight role of brain gene activity in Alzheimer's disease
Innovative new research has revealed that the activity of different versions of genes expressed in the brain is associated with the accumulation of the protein tau, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
A new pathway that is used by cancer cells to infiltrate the brain has been discovered. The research also reveals a new therapy that shows promise in blocking and killing these tumors.
Breakthrough in bid to develop vaccines and drugs for neglected tropical disease
A breakthrough lays the foundations for vaccine development and for testing new preventative measures against the neglected tropical disease leishmaniasis.
Eye-tracking study provides valuable insights into learning mathematics
Eye-tracking allows studying aspects that cannot be seen, for example, the thinking processes of a student solving a mathematical problem. Researchers have integrated eye-tracking into education and are using the technology to radically improve the teaching of mathematics.
When two people interact, their brain activity becomes synchronized, but it was unclear until now to what extent this 'brain-to-brain coupling' is due to linguistic information or other factors, such as body language or tone of voice. Researchers report that brain-to-brain coupling during conversation can be modeled by considering the words used during that conversation, and the context in which they are used.
Healthy AI: Sustainable artificial intelligence for healthcare
Researchers investigated the environmental costs of AI, including energy consumption of AI systems in the medical field, carbon emissions of data centers, and electronic waste issues. Specific solutions to mitigate these environmental impacts were discussed, including the development of energy-efficient AI models, the implementation of green computing, and the use of renewable energy.
Dopamine physiology in the brain unveiled through cutting-edge brain engineering
Researchers have discovered a new correlation between neural signaling in the brain and dopamine signaling in the striatum. The human brain requires fast neural signal processing in a short period of less than a second. Dopamine is known to have the strongest effect on brain neural signals, but the research team's newly developed 'optical neural chip-based multiple brain signal monitoring technology' shows that changes in dopamine signals within the physiological range do not affect brain neural signal processing.
Precise package delivery in cells?
Researchers have developed new real-time microscopy technology and successfully observed the behavior of 'motor proteins', which may hold the key to unraveling the efficient material transport strategy of cells.